Rolling Stones Tour Manager Dies

Mick Brigden

Mick Brigden was once one of the busiest touring managers in music history, working for the likes of Bob Dylan, Van Morrison, Carlos Santana and the Rolling Stones.

The 50-year music industry veteran, who was 73-years-old at the time of his death, was according to his wife, Julia Dreyer Bridgen, digging a grave for their 14-year-old dying Australian Shepard at their property in Santa Rosa, California.

Bridgen lived countless lives before his untimely death. Born in Southend-on-Sea in England, his first passion was graphic art, a career he feel into after moving to Canada at 19-years-old. Ultimately, making the transition to the music scene and moving to New York after meeting Mountain front man, Felix Pappalardi.

Bridgen would then work for legendary music promoter, Bill Graham, who was known for being the first major promoter to book rock group, The Grateful Dead. Graham was also instrumental in implementing medical assistance triages at large concerts and festivals, a practice still used today.

Following the death of Graham in a helicopter crash in 1991, Bridgen and 13 other former employees of Graham’s company, Bill Graham Presents, purchased 90% of BGP, eventually selling in the early 2000’s, allowing Bridgen to open MJJ Management.

Bridgen spent his final years in Santa Rosa, California with his wife, son Jack, stepdaughter Jessica and grandson David Merz.

One of Bridgen’s closest friends and collaborators was guitarist, Joe Satriana, who was managed by Bridgen for over 30 years.

Satriana released an official statement in which he detailed his friendship with Bridgen and let the world know that his success would not be possible without him.

“I’ve never worked so hard, played so hard, laughed and cried so hard, made so much music and had so many worldwide adventures, and all with Mick by my side. He was the ultimate music business mentor,” he said.

The date of Bridgen’s funeral is still unclear, however, music industry heavyweights are expected to be in attendance.

Send your condolences to Bridgen’s family and friends by commenting below.

Written by Mansour Shukoor

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