Veteran Music Executive Joe McFadden Dies at 77

Joe McFadden, a prominent music industry executive, passed away on March 11, 2025, at the age of 77 after a long illness. His career spanned over three decades, starting with EMI in 1975 and later serving as senior vice president of sales and marketing at Capitol Records, where he worked with major artists like Paul McCartney, Coldplay, and Bob Seger. After leaving Capitol in 2007, McFadden founded The Hammer LLC and later joined Better Noise Music as chief commercial officer, contributing to the success of various rock acts. He was known for his dedication to artist development and his strategic insight in the music business. McFadden is survived by his wife Ellen, three sons, a daughter, and four grandchildren. A memorial service is planned for March 22, 2025, and donations can be made in his honor to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.