Music Industry Veteran From Madison Dead at 90: Reports

MADISON, N.J.– Tony Martell, a longtime label executive and founder of the T.J. Martell Foundation, died at his Madison home on Sunday, according to reports.

He was 90.

"The passing of Tony is not only a great loss to Madison but also to our country and the world as a whole," said Madison Mayor Robert Conley.

The foundation is the music industry's largest foundation for leukemia, cancer and AIDS research, according to Billboard.com.

"Tony taught us all how to keep fighting for what we believe in and to do what we can to help others in need," reads a statement on the T.J. Martell Foundation website. "He never gave up on his fight to find a cure for cancer and through his passion, energy and perseverance the T.J. Martell Foundation has supported flagship hospitals in the United States and raised over $270 million for leukemia, cancer and AIDS research."

Added Conley, "We may never know how many lives have been saved through the leukemia, cancer
and AIDS research funded by the foundation."

Flags in Madison were flown at half staff on Monday.

According to Billboard.com, Martell worked with luminaries such as Electric Light Orchestra, Joan Jett, Ozzy Osbourne, Stevie Ray Vaughn, the Isley Brothers and more during his 30-plus year career.

Martell was the former president of CBS International Records, Billboard.com reported.

Martell’s wife of more than 65 years, Vicky, died in February at the age of 88, Variety.com reported.

Memorial plans will be announced soon, according to a Facebook post from the borough.

Image via Shutterstock