Tom Tilton
December 1, 1935 – August 14, 2011
Tom Tilton was a long time sales executive for Capitol Records and later, its distribution arm which was renamed Cema Distribution during the late ’80s. Born in Omaha, Nebraska, Tilton went to work for Capitol as a young man, and ultimately found himself running the Cema sales branch in Dallas, Texas where he was loved and respected by his staff and colleagues throughout the entire company. During his tenure with Capitol-EMI Music, Tilton played a key role in the successes of such artists as varied as the Beatles, Duran Duran, Bob Seger, Tina Turner, Garth Brooks, Iron Maiden, and the Beach Boys. Tilton left the music industry during the mid ’90s, but stayed in the Dallas area where he farmed and raised horses and cattle for the rest of his working life. Tom Tilton was 75 when he passed away peacefully on August 14, 2011.
Thanks to Alexis Kelley for the assist.
This man changed my life. He was “The Godfather”. I would not be where or who I am today if he hadn’t called one day and said “Do you want to move to Houston?” That moment started a journey that still continues today. Thank you Mr. Tilton. Thank you. Oh, amd tell Taylor I said hi!
Des Moines Ia—-Tom hired me as a saled rep for Eastern Iowain 1961–what terrific guy
I dated Tom’s secretary, Sherry Castleberry, when I lived in Dallas in 1980 and was a buyer for the Handleman Company. He was a great guy.