Walter R. Yetnikoff, 87; A “Force” of the Music Industry

Obituary

NYTimes/Bobby Bank/WireImage photo

Walter R. Yetnikoff died on Saturday, August 7, 2021, four days short of his 88th birthday.

He was born in Brooklyn, New York, graduated from Columbia University Law School, and rose to become an influential force in the entertainment world as president of Columbia Records. He guided the careers of Barbra Streisand, Billy Joel, Michael Jackson, and Mick Jagger among others.

He leaves to mourn his wife Lynda of Westport, Ct, his sons Michael and Daniel, four grandchildren, and his sister and brother-in-law Carol and Sid Goldstein of Glastonbury. There will be a memorial service in the future and a Shiva service was held on Wednesday, August 11 at 7:30 PM at the home of Carol and Sid Goldstein. Full COVID-19 vaccinations and masks will be required.