Al Embry, Nashville Music Executive, Manager and Agent, Dies at 82
Al Embry, Nashville Music Executive, Manager and Agent, Dies at 82
9/9/2019 by Annie Reuter
The Nashville music community is mourning the death of longtime executive Alton “Al” Embry. The manager, agent and talent promoter died of natural causes at his home on Sept. 9 in Old Hickory, Tenn., his publicist confirms. He was 82.
Embry was born in Butler County, Ky. on Aug. 19, 1937. With a passion for music, Embry began his career in the business in the ‘60s, at first working to secure photo coverage for Look Magazine.
Following a meeting with Jerry Lee Lewis in the mid-60s, the pair began a long working relationship. Embry would go on to rise in the ranks at the Hubert Long International Agency, first as a talent booking agent and eventually becoming vice president. It was here that he worked with legendary country acts including George Jones, Tammy Wynette, The Statler Brothers and Merle Haggard, among others.
Embry’s own Al Embry International launched in 1975. Well known for discovering and championing new talent, early successes included Alabama, Fats Domino, Mickey Gilley and Chubby Checker.
In his later years, Embry remained active in several organizations including the Country Music Association, the Academy of Country Music, and the International Entertainment Buyers Association, among others.
Those looking for information about visitation and the funeral can contact Hermitage Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens. 555 Shute Ln, Old Hickory, TN 37138.
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Annie Reuter, Khareem Sudlow
