Selwyn Miller, a legendary music manager and promoter, passed away on October 10, 2023, in New Orleans, Louisiana at the age of 78. Born in Cape Town, South Africa, on March 19, 1945 to the Late Barney and Rose Miller, his life was defined by a deep love for music of artists like Little Richard, Fats Domino, and Elvis Presley. This passion led him to pursue a full-time career in the music industry, leading him to a remarkable six-decade career.
Miller's journey began with humble beginnings working in recording studios and managing the British group Gary Farr and the T-Bones. He embarked on a transformative "$99 for 99 Days" Greyhound bus tour of the United States, where he solidified his dedication to music by witnessing performances by iconic artists like Stevie Wonder, the Temptations, B. B. King, Ike and Tina Turner, the Impressions, Johnny Nash, Otis Redding, Joe Tex, and Ray Charles.
Returning to Cape Town in the late 1960s, Selwyn Miller rose to prominence as an artist agent and manager, bringing American R&B and rock acts to South Africa. Notably, he organized South Africa's first multi-racial pop festival in 1972.
In 1980, Miller relocated to Australia, where he continued to shine as a prominent promoter and manager, working with artists like Suzi Quatro and George Thorogood.
Miller's lifelong dream brought him to the United States (the birthplace of the music he cherished) in 1985, where he managed renowned artists and even reunited the original members of the group Bread for a successful world tour. Some of his other notable accomplishments during this period included acting as United States representative for Petula Clark and manager for Percy Sledge and Little Anthony and the Imperials. Despite retiring in 2013, his unwavering passion for music led him to continue putting together concert series and staying engaged in the industry.
Selwyn Miller's impact on the music world, his dedication to his craft, and his legacy as a manager and promoter will endure in the hearts of those who knew and worked with him. He enjoyed cruising on the open seas, spending time with family and friends, and frequently went out to listen and support local musicians in New Orleans. He will be dearly missed by the global music community, friends, and family.
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