Riverside Records co-owner Orrin Keepnews -- RIP

From the Riverside Records' list
(Image: designspiration.net)

Once upon a time, I collected jazz recordings. Among my more valued acquisitions were albums (yes, vinyl) with the Riverside Records imprint. The company had impeccable taste and a reputation for being one of the rare "good guys" in a business not noted for its saints. One of Riverside's co-owners was Orrin Keepnews, who passed away recently at age 91. The New York Times' obituary does an acceptable, though not insightful, job presenting a sketch of the record producer's life and impact. Keepnews' son Peter, a Times editor, did not write the obit, although it's hard to imagine he did not contribute to the piece.

What's notable about Keepnews and his Riverside business partner Bill Grauer was their willingness to pursue what they loved. They didn't have venture capital, their business plan mostly involved getting the next album produced, and they weren't insufferably infatuated with themselves. Keepnews knew the musicians and was able to win their trust more often than not. Riverside's accomplishments and the manner in which Keepnews and Grauer pursued them seem quaint today. However, Riverside Records' artistic merit stands the test of time; the label retains the respect of those who follow and care about jazz. That's a legacy Orrin Keepnews helped create and shape. He will be missed.