Jerry Riopelle | |
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Origin | Los Angeles, California, United States |
Genres | Rock |
Occupation(s) | Musician, record producer |
Years active | 1960s-present |
Website | www |
Jerry Riopelle is a musician and record producer raised in Tampa, Florida, and known primarily for his hard rock performances and for his record production.
Riopelle began his music career in the 1960s in Los Angeles working as an independent record producer. He played drums for the Hollywood Argyles and later signed with Screen Gems as a staff songwriter. At Screen Gems, he wrote and produced, along with Clydie King, a single called "The Thrill is Gone". This exposure helped Riopelle land staff writer and producer job with Phil Spector at Philles Records.
Riopelle had his first charting record as producer of "Home of the Brave," which as recorded by Bonnie & The Treasures reached #77 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the summer of 1965. He later produced top 40 singles for The Parade (he was a member) and April Stevens & Nino Tempo. This led to an opportunity to work as an A&M Records producer and a role as a staff writer at Irving Music.
Riopelle produced and wrote for The Parade, Brewer & Shipley, We Five, and Shango. His songs have been covered by Leon Russell, Herb Alpert, Kenny Loggins, Rita Coolidge, Meat Loaf, and others. Jerry also wrote various pieces for Hollywood TV shows and films.
Arizona Connection
Became popular in Arizona during the 1970s, highlighted by his hugely popular and rousing New Year's Eve performances at a local Phoenix venue called Celebrity Theatre, featuring a revolving stage. Well known national acts opened for HIM on these occasions including The Dixie Dregs and others.
Riopelle and his wife Naomi have two children, daughter Angela and son Paul. Jerry and Naomi divide their time between homes in Scottsdale, Arizona, and Kailua-Kona, Hawaii.