LEGENDS: Bert Berns And Nat Weiss - Music Industry Giants

Bert Berns and Nat Weiss were two giants of the music industry, yet both relatively unknown to the public. Bert Berns was one of the foremost songwriters and producers of pop and rhythm and blues in the ‘60s. His hits include “Twist And Shout”, which The Beatles took to international fame; “Piece Of My Heart”, Janis Joplin’s gigantic hit; “Hang On Sloopy”, the mega-hit for The McCoys; “Cry To Me”, a hit for Solomon Burke and later for The Rolling Stones; and “Tell Him”, a great early ‘60s hit for the Exciters. His producer credits include “Brown Eyed Girl”, Van Morrison’s first smash hit. 

Nat Weiss was a lawyer by training. He became the U.S. business partner of Brian Epstein, the manager of The Beatles, and was Brian’s right hand man in America for the band, including for all the merchandising opportunities coming their way. Nat expanded this relationship and began suggesting artists for Brian to manage, including The Cyrkle (“Red Rubber Ball”). They formed a management company together and, after Brian’s death, Nat continued the business, managing artists like James Taylor.