Face value: Daddy cool

摘要

Music company bosses always get a terrible rap. They are usually portrayed as grasping, cynical and lacking in any artistic sensibility. A scene from a recent film about the musician Johnny Cash, "Walk the Line"—in which Cash's fat record-company manager tries to stop him playing what turns out to be a triumphant concert at Folsom Prison-sums up the popular image. But, fortunately for the morale of music business executives, there is also Jimmy Iovine. In contrast to many fellow execs, Mr Iovine has musical talent. And although he works for Universal Music Group, the biggest music firm in the world, which is in turn owned by Vivendi, a French conglomerate, artists regard him as much more than just another "suit". Rappers have even incorporated Jimmy lovine approvingly into their lyrics. Mr lovine has street credibility. And-ironically enough-that may be the key to his success as a businessman.