Mehmet Arif Mardin, known in the music world simply as Arif Mardin, was a Turkish-American producer and composer with a distinguished career that spanned over 40 years. His work on some of the most iconic albums of the 20th century and his collaboration with numerous globally renowned artists are testaments to his incredible talent and contribution to the music industry.
Born on March 15, 1932, in Istanbul, Turkey, Mardin hailed from an Ottoman family whose roots were claimed to trace back to Husayn ibn Ali, the grandson of the Islamic prophet Muhammad. Despite his prominent lineage, it was music, not politics or history, that would become Mardin's passion.
Mardin first studied business administration at the London School of Economics, but his love for music led him to attend Berklee College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts, USA, where he won the Quincy Jones Scholarship. His educational journey mirrored the future trajectory of his career - a mix of economics, management, and creativity that would serve him well in the recording industry.
Mardin started his career at Atlantic Records in 1963, working with Nasuhi Ertegun. His talent and hard work led him to become the vice president of the company in 1969. Mardin worked closely with Ahmet Ertegun and producer Jerry Wexler on numerous projects. In 2001, he left Atlantic Records to work for his own label, Manhattan/EMI Records.
Over his career, Mardin produced a number of iconic artists, including the Bee Gees, Bette Midler, Diana Ross, Aretha Franklin, Barbra Streisand, Phil Collins, Jewel, and Chaka Khan. He also played a significant role in launching the career of Norah Jones, leading her to immense popularity.
Mardin was recognized for his contributions to the music industry with numerous awards, including 12 Grammy Awards out of 15 nominations. His work resulted in over 40 gold and platinum albums. He also received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Recording Academy of Arts and Sciences (NARAS) in 2001.
Arif Mardin's story is one of passion and determination, a man who pursued his love for music and made significant contributions to the world of music. His journey from a young boy in Istanbul to a renowned music producer in New York is an inspiration to many. Mardin may have left us, but his music and the magic he wove into it will forever remain.