MMF is extremely sad to learn of the death of one of our founders, music manager Dr Raymond Coffer
MMF is extremely sad to learn of the death of one of our founders, music manager Dr Raymond Coffer who was on the Board of the MMF from 1993-1996.
Raymond was a highly successful ex-artist manager and during the 1980s and 1990s managed some amazing artists, including Smashing Pumpkins, Cocteau Twins, Love and Rockets, Ian McCulloch, Electafixion, The Sundays, Curve, Daniel Ash, David J, Swell, Xymox, Cecil, Agnes and Laptop.
In retirement, he stepped away from the industry, and in 2011 earned a PhD from the University of London in Germanic and Romance Studies. However he continued his love of music through running the Bushey Performing Arts festival and bringing artists to his town. He will be very much missed by his wife Roberta, his son and grandchild, and so many of his friends in the Music Managers Forum.
“Raymond Coffer was a legendary manager. Discerning and insightful, he had the best taste in music and always knew EXACTLY what needed to be done – and then made it happen. I realise we were friends for well over 30 years (yikes) and he was always there to offer thoughts and advice. He had a warm curiosity, loved to find new talent even after moving on from management. Tipped me off about an unknown act he was championing some years ago and, guess what, London Grammar! Even over these last few months, when we chatted and texted, he told me that, if the right act came along, he’d like to manage again – once a manager, always a manager! Also served the best bagels when you visited him at home. Dear Raymondo – a privilege to know you and we will miss you so much.”
Dianne Wagg, Deluxxe Management, former MMF Chair and Custodian
“My path with Ray commenced during The Sundays period as I managed their producer Dave Anderson. Ray was always utterly respectful, friendly enthusiastic and as became evident during the course of making records with them, deeply in love with music.
We stayed in touch over the years and of course via the MMF meet ups. He was always generous with his time, suggestions and invitations. I’m rather gutted I never made it down to one his Bushey Festivals as he would invite me to each year. I’m sure he would have been in his element.
A decent and kind Music Man, he will be sorely missed”
Stephen Budd, former MMF Chair and Custodian
“Raymond was a lovely man and a manager that made a difference to his artists. May he rest in peace.”
Merck Mecuriadis, Hipgnosis, MMF Custodian