Robert Ellis Silberstein: Facts About The Music Executive

Who is Robert Ellis Silberstein, and why does his name still resonate within the vibrant tapestry of the entertainment industry? The answer lies not just in the notable artists he's managed, but in the impactful, albeit often behind-the-scenes, role he played shaping some of the most iconic careers in music.

Born in Elberon, New Jersey, a place that would later become intertwined with his personal and professional life, Robert Ellis Silberstein emerged onto the scene as an American music executive and businessman. His journey, however, began far from the glitz and glamour of the stage. Silberstein's roots lay in a family of garment manufacturers, a background that instilled in him a certain entrepreneurial spirit and business acumen. This foundation would prove crucial as he navigated the complexities of the music world, a landscape vastly different from the one he was raised in. His early life included attending West Virginia University, a testament to his diverse interests and aspirations.

Silberstein's path took a pivotal turn in the late 1960s, when he crossed paths with a young woman named Diana Ross. At the time, Ross was already a burgeoning superstar. This meeting marked a turning point, not just for Silberstein's personal life, as he would later marry Ross, but for his professional trajectory as well. He found himself drawn into the orbit of the music industry, a realm where talent, ambition, and strategic maneuvering intertwine. It was during this period that Silbersteins influence began to take shape.

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One of the significant facets of Silbersteins story is his marriage to Diana Ross in January 1971. The couple's union was a prominent event, linking two distinct worlds. Their relationship, however, was destined to be a chapter, not an entire novel. After six years, they chose to go their separate ways in 1977. Their bond, however, resulted in the birth of two daughters, Tracee Ellis Ross and Chudney Ross, both of whom would go on to forge successful careers in their own right. Tracee, in particular, would honor her father by adopting "Ellis" as part of her stage name, a touching gesture of familial connection. Alongside his daughters, Silberstein also took on the role of a caring figure to Rhonda Suzanne Silberstein, daughter of Diana and Berry Gordy.

Silberstein's professional achievements extended beyond his personal life. He built a name for himself as a capable music manager, overseeing the careers of a diverse roster of artists. He managed iconic names like Diana Ross herself, overseeing her solo career after her time with The Supremes. Moreover, his management extended to other notable acts such as Meat Loaf, Billy Preston, and Rufus, further cementing his status as a significant figure in the music industry.

Silberstein's career also reflects his business acumen. His expertise in negotiations and contracts was critical to the success of the artists he represented. He was not only a talent manager but also a strategist, always working in his clients best interest. He navigated the complex world of record labels, publishing rights, and touring, making sure the artists were positioned for success. His presence was indispensable in the business world.

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His name, however, is also associated with a degree of the dramatic. Silberstein holds a record, like some other Hollywood figures, for having a turbulent relationship with his partners, ultimately resulting in a separation. Throughout the 1970s, he began to manage Ross, as well as Ronnie Wood of The Rolling Stones, Billy Preston, and Chaka Khan, whom he found while supervising Rufus.

Today, Robert Ellis Silberstein is acknowledged as an American music executive and businessman, his legacy etched within the annals of music history. He continues to remain private. Though he may not always seek the spotlight, his influence remains very relevant within the industry. His story serves as a reminder of the hidden forces that shape the careers of those we see in the limelight.

Category	Details
Full Name	Robert Ellis Silberstein
Also Known As	Bob Ellis, Bobby Ellis
Date of Birth	January 5, 1946
Place of Birth	Elberon, New Jersey, U.S.
Nationality	American
Ethnicity	Jewish
Education	West Virginia University
Occupation	Music Executive, Businessman, Music Manager
Known For	Managing Diana Ross, Meat Loaf, Billy Preston, and others; Being the first husband of Diana Ross.
Marital Status	Divorced
Ex-Spouse	Diana Ross
Children	Tracee Ellis Ross, Chudney Ross, and Rhonda Suzanne Silberstein (step-daughter)
Net Worth (approx.)	$50 million (as of 2020)
Associated Acts	Diana Ross, Meat Loaf, Billy Preston, Rufus, Ronnie Wood, Chaka Khan
Residences	Weston, Connecticut (House)
Reference	IMDB

The early life of Robert Ellis Silberstein was marked by the affluence of his family in Elberon, New Jersey. His family was involved in garment manufacturing, an industry that gave him a good financial start. He attended West Virginia University, reflecting his varied interests. Later, he considered teaching.

In the late 1960s, Silberstein's life changed when he crossed paths with the iconic Diana Ross. At the time, she was a music superstar. They married in January 1971. Diana was already pregnant with a child she conceived with Motown bigshot Berry Gordy, two months before marrying Silberstein. In a People Magazine article, Diana Ross described Silberstein as "a rare thing, a gentleman who is young, alive and very handsome. Their relationship resulted in two daughters, Tracee Ellis Ross and Chudney Ross. Tracee chose to use "Ellis" in her stage name as a mark of respect for her father.

Beyond his family, Silberstein made his mark in the world of music management. He served as a manager for Diana Ross, managing her career after her time with The Supremes. He worked with artists such as Meat Loaf, Billy Preston, and Rufus, establishing himself as a significant figure in the music industry. He played an essential role in shaping the careers of the artists he managed, providing them with strategic guidance and expertise that allowed them to achieve success. He was known as "Bob Ellis".

His expertise expanded into overseeing the careers of a variety of artists, including Billy Preston, Diana Ross, Rufus, Meat Loaf and Status Quo. His ability to locate talent, negotiate contracts, and promote his clients' work was crucial to their success. He ensured that his artists were well-placed, not just creatively, but also in the business side of things, from recording contracts to publishing rights and tour arrangements. He was instrumental in expanding their reach and audience recognition.

He was married to Diana Ross from 1971 to 1977. Though their marriage did not last forever, their mutual respect remained as evidenced in their continued friendly interactions after the divorce. The legacy of their relationship continues to thrive through their two daughters, Tracee and Chudney. Tracee Ellis Ross, a well-regarded actress and producer, and Chudney Ross, a producer and production manager, carry on the family legacy in the entertainment world.

Silbersteins financial success is reflected in his net worth. As of 2020, his net worth was around $50 million. His wealth is derived from his career in the music industry and his business endeavors. He also owns a residence in Weston, Connecticut. Silberstein's life and work provides a glimpse into the world of music. From the dynamics of superstar romances to the challenging art of talent management, Silberstein's life continues to be part of Hollywood history. His story reminds us that the people behind the scenes can have as much, if not more, of an impact as those in front of the camera.

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