Terry Ellis

Terry Ellis is a renowned British music industry executive best known as the co-founder of Chrysalis Records, a groundbreaking independent label that helped define the sound of rock and pop in the 1970s and 1980s. Alongside partner Chris Wright, Ellis launched Chrysalis in 1968, originally as an offshoot of their management company, and quickly gained recognition for signing and nurturing a roster of influential artists. Under his leadership, Chrysalis became home to legendary acts such as Jethro Tull, Procol Harum, Blondie, and Billy Idol, among others. Ellis was instrumental in shaping the careers of these artists, often taking an active role in production and creative direction, particularly with Jethro Tull, whose albums he produced and guided to international success.

Known for his keen ear and innovative approach to artist development, Ellis helped redefine the relationship between record labels and musicians, championing creative freedom at a time when the industry was largely dominated by major labels. In the 1980s, he relocated to the United States and continued his work as a producer and music entrepreneur.

Beyond his contributions to rock and pop, Ellis also made significant inroads into music publishing and multimedia ventures, maintaining a lasting impact on the global music landscape. His legacy is marked by his dedication to artistic excellence and his role in building Chrysalis into one of the most influential independent labels in modern music history.

Ellis discovered his passion for the music industry while studying science at Newcastle University in the northeast of England, booking bands into his Student Union on Saturday nights. When writing a pop music column for his college newspaper, his attempt to interview Bob Dylan was filmed for D.A. Pennebaker's film "Don't Look Back." After graduating, Ellis worked with Michael Jeffrey, a Newcastle club owner and manager of The Animals and Jimi Hendrix. Subsequently, Ellis developed one of the most successful track records in contemporary music for discovering and developing the commercial potential of young musicians. Today, Ellis remains active in the music industry, playing a key role in the formation and development of the Chrysalis Rock Orchestra, a forty-piece orchestra playing the great compositions of the rock era.

He was elected Chairman of the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) for a two-year term and remains the only non-American to hold this office. He has also held the Chairmanship of the British Phonographic Industry (BPI) and served for five years as a member of the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI).

Ellis and his French wife, Daniele, live in the British Virgin Islands and New York. He is a member of the Metropolitan Opera Club of New York City and has served on its board of directors. As Chairman of the BPI in 1990, Ellis was responsible for establishing the BRIT School of Performing Arts in Croydon, Surrey, funded by the British Recording Industry Trust. Ellis's book, "Backstage Pass," is forthcoming.