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A Lifetime Behind the Scenes (Image Credits: Upload.wikimedia.org)
Nashville – Veteran music manager Gary Borman announced his retirement Sunday, closing his company after five decades of guiding top artists through the industry.[1][2]
A Lifetime Behind the Scenes
At 73, Borman reflected on a career that began far from Music City. A Pittsburgh native, he built Borman Entertainment into a powerhouse with offices in Nashville and Los Angeles. His tenure placed him on Billboard’s Country Power Players list as founder and president/CEO.[1]
The announcement came after 50 years of steering talent across genres. Borman managed acts from rock legends to country stars, amassing a roster that defined eras in music. His decision to retire signals the end of an independent operation that prioritized long-term artist relationships.
From Rock Icons to Country Powerhouses
Borman’s client list reads like a greatest-hits compilation. Early in his career, he worked with The Rolling Stones and The Bee Gees, navigating the high-stakes world of global tours and album releases. He later guided James Taylor and Natalie Cole through pivotal moments.
In country and beyond, his influence grew. Dwight Yoakam, Faith Hill, and Lady A benefited from his strategic oversight. More recently, Mickey Guyton joined his fold. The Violent Femmes and The Yellowjackets rounded out a diverse portfolio that crossed boundaries.[1]
- The Rolling Stones
- The Bee Gees
- James Taylor
- Natalie Cole
- Dwight Yoakam
- Faith Hill
- Lady A
- Mickey Guyton
- The Yellowjackets
- The Violent Femmes
Two Decades with Keith Urban
Borman’s most enduring partnership lasted 25 years with Keith Urban, his sole remaining client at the time of the announcement. Together, they achieved chart-topping success and sold-out arenas. Urban credited the collaboration for extraordinary accomplishments.
“I’m so grateful to Gary (and my entire Borman Nashville family) for the most incredible and successful time together,” Urban stated. “It was extraordinary – what we were able to accomplish together – and I’ll forever be grateful for the creative and collaborative spirit we were all a part of for so long.”[1][3]
Borman described their bond as brotherly. “Keith and I shared a journey not unlike brothers,” he said. “The place that I have in my heart will remain warm and my mind filled with wonderful memories.”
Gratitude Shapes the Farewell
Borman expressed deep appreciation for his path. “To say I’ve been lucky to have spent my time doing what I’ve loved would be an understatement,” he shared. “I’ve worked side by side with some of the most gifted artists. I’m grateful beyond words to all the teachers, artists, colleagues, collaborators, supporters, Lady Luck, as well as the adversaries and turbulent moments that sharpened my resolve and taught me how to manage emotion and life.”[1]
The retirement closes Borman Entertainment for good. Urban plans to reveal new management soon, but the focus remains on Borman’s legacy of loyalty and results.
Key Takeaways
- 50 years managing stars across rock, pop, and country.
- 25-year run with Keith Urban, driving major successes.
- Billboard recognition as a Country Power Player.
Gary Borman’s exit underscores the personal stakes in music management, where decades-long alliances define triumphs. As one chapter ends, the industry loses a steady hand but gains enduring stories of collaboration. What impact did Borman’s work have on your favorite artists? Tell us in the comments.
Besides founding Festivaltopia, Fritz is the managing director of Europe’s largest manufacturer of mobile stages Kultour and has a lot of experience in the event industry, loves music and likes to go to festivals.
