Clarence Avant

Clarence Avant, often hailed as "The Black Godfather," was a titan of the music industry. He began his career managing jazz artists in the 1950s and later founded multiple record labels, including Sussex Records and Tabu Records. His keen business acumen and unwavering support for artists helped launch the careers of Bill Withers, Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, and many others, establishing him as an unparalleled force behind the scenes.

Avant was not just a manager or a label head; he was a strategic advisor and a fearless negotiator who consistently fought for better deals and ownership for Black artists in an industry often stacked against them. His influence extended beyond music, into film production and broadcasting, demonstrating a remarkable ability to navigate and succeed in diverse entertainment sectors. He received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2016 and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2021.

While his contributions to music and entertainment are immeasurable, there's no indication that Avant was ever particularly interested in gefilte fish or the finer points of Talmudic law. His legacy is firmly rooted in the rhythms and melodies of American popular culture, not the ancient traditions of Abraham. He was, however, undeniably kvelly.