Nashville Pays Tribute to Music Industry Legend Mike Martinovich at Age 81

Nashville Mourns the Loss of Music Industry Icon Mike Martinovich

Nashville, TN – The music world has lost a true legend with the passing of Mike Martinovich, a longtime Music Row executive, who passed away recently at the age of 81. Martinovich was not just a name in the music industry; he was a significant force behind the scenes, helping to shape the careers of countless artists over his impressive three-decade career at CBS/Sony Records.

An Early Start in the Industry

Mike Martinovich embarked on his journey in the music business in 1969, starting as a sales representative for CBS Records in St. Louis. It didn’t take long for him to make a name for himself. Just a year later, he made his way to the CBS Atlanta office, taking on the role of sales manager. His star continued to rise, and soon he became the branch manager in Cincinnati.

Climbing the Ladder

By 1979, Mike’s hard work paid off when he was named Vice President of Merchandising for CBS nationally. In this influential role, he was responsible for the marketing and promotion of a plethora of music across the Columbia, Epic, and Portrait labels. It was during this time that he played a pivotal role in the marketing campaigns of major artists like Michael Jackson, Bruce Springsteen, Pink Floyd, Journey, and James Taylor.

Transitioning to Sony

In 1989, he took his talents to Sony Records in Nashville, where he was named Vice President of Marketing. Here, he was responsible for everything from advertising to overseeing the national country music sales staff. His contributions helped elevate the careers of country legends such as Dolly Parton, George Jones, Tammy Wynette (who held a special place in his heart), and many others.

After Sony: New Ventures

After leaving Sony in 1994, Mike partnered with manager Joe Mansfield to create Mansfield-Martinovich Associates. They provided consulting services to Anderson Merchandisers, notably executing Walmart’s renowned “Country Music Across America Parking Lot Tour,” which showcased over 50 emerging country artists. The tour dazzled tens of thousands of fans in over 60 cities!

Continued Impact on the Industry

From 2002 to 2017, Mike continued to make waves in the industry as a partner at The Consortium, where he co-managed rising star Mandy Barnett and contributed to the careers of artists like Jason Aldean and Marie Osmond. His consultancy work with the independent label Broken Bow Records showed his enduring influence, as did his role in managing The Weather Channel’s licensing and branding.

A Family Legacy

Mike’s passion for the music industry clearly ran in the family. His sons have continued in his footsteps, with Michael Dimitry Martinovich managing notable bands and Bo Martinovich serving as Sr. Director of National Promotion & Artist Development at Sony Music Nashville.

A Life of Service

Beyond his impressive professional accomplishments, Mike was devoted to his community. He was an alumnus of Leadership Music and served as president of the board of the St. Petka Serbian Orthodox Church, located in Germantown, where his contributions touched many lives.

Remembering a Giant

As the news of his passing spreads, it’s clear that Mike Martinovich’s legacy will endure in the hearts and minds of those who knew him and those he affected through his work in the music industry. Funeral arrangements have yet to be announced, but tributes from friends, family, and colleagues are sure to reflect a life well-lived and a career that left an indelible mark on the world of music.

In a world where music brings people together, Mike Martinovich will forever resonate as a beloved figure, leaving behind a rich legacy for future generations to admire and aspire to.