Vallon and Jeff Greenberg

Larry Vallon, a concert-production fixture for more than a half century, passed away peacefully on Sunday (7/14) in Los Angeles as a result of complications from Alzheimer’s. He was 77.

The beloved, L.A.-based exec—whom AEG chief Jay Marciano once described as “the nicest man in show business”—worked for such companies as Concert Associates, Wolf and Rissmiller, Universal Amphitheatre, Larry Vallon Presents and AEG, producing thousands of shows during his career.

Marciano brought Vallon to AEG, “returning the favor for him having brought me to MCA in 1984,” Jay recalled. “He was a friend, mentor and the big brother I never had, the most positive person I have ever known, and he could really make me laugh. My life is so much better from having known him. Loved that man.”

Vallon was a 23-year veteran of Universal Concerts prior to joining AEG. He'd joined mentor Lew Wasserman and Universal when it was MCA Concerts. In that job, he helped make Universal Amphitheatre a go-to tour stop.

Vallon got his start in the business as a runner for concert promoters Jim Rissmiller and Steve Wolf at Wolf & Rissmiller Presents. He was moved to a stage-management position and eventually junior partner before starting Larry Vallon Presents.

“My oldest and longest dear friend (and best man at my first wedding) Larry Vallon passed peacefully this morning with his wife and daughters by his side,” Jeff Greenberg of The Village Studios wrote on social media. “Larry will always be remembered as one of the greatest concert promoters who ever lived... He was loved by artists, venues, crews, agents and colleagues alike.

“The Stones, Pink Floyd, The Who and pretty much every act from small theaters to the biggest festivals in history experienced the highest level of professionalism and care...

“We were introduced by Jim Rissmiller, who put me on to ice buckets for drinks for talent. We were roommates too. A huge part of the concert business and our lives, Larry will be missed. RIP, and thanks for showing us how it’s done.”

Larry is survived by his wife, Claudia, his daughters Vanessa Vallon and Kelly Vallon Ciccotti (a partner in Ziffren Brittenham’s music group) and son-in-law Matt Ciccotti.

A fund has been established in Larry’s name on the Alzheimer’s Association website.

“We are thankful Larry never forgot who his family members were or lost his positive attitude,” the tribute reads in part. “We know this was a privilege as the same cannot be said for many people suffering from Alzheimer’s. A gift will be made in Larry’s memory towards finding a cure for this horrible disease.”