Who Is Terry Melcher? Age, Biography, and Wiki
Terry Melcher, born on February 8, 1942, was an influential American record producer and songwriter who played a significant role in shaping the music industry during the 1960s and 1970s. Known for his collaborations with legendary artists such as The Beach Boys and Paul Revere & the Raiders, Melcher's impact on rock and pop music remains significant even years after his passing on November 19, 2004. As of 2025, Melcher would have turned 83, and his contributions to the music world are still celebrated by fans and musicians alike.
| Occupation | Producers |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | February 8, 1942 |
| Age | 62 Years |
| Birth Place | New York City, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Aquarius |
| Country | U.S |
| Date of death | 19 November, 2004 |
| Died Place | Beverly Hills, California, U.S. |
Popularity
Terry Melcher's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Although exact figures for Terry Melcher’s height and weight remain largely undocumented, he was typically seen in photographs conveying a healthy physique common among individuals of his generation. His charismatic presence added to his ability to connect with artists and audiences alike.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Terry Melcher's personal life was as vibrant as his professional one. He was known to have had several high-profile relationships throughout his life. His most notable long-term relationship was with actress [Candice Bergen](/candice-bergen-politician), whom he dated in the 1970s. After his relationship with Bergen, Melcher was romantically involved with several other figures in the entertainment industry; however, it is essential to note that he never married. His connections with prominent personalities played a crucial role in his career and offered insights into the music scene of that era.
Melcher was the only child of actress/singer Doris Day. His father was Day's first husband Al Jorden, and he was adopted by her third husband Martin Melcher. Most of his early recordings were with the vocal surf acts the Rip Chords and Bruce & Terry.
In the 1960s, Melcher was acquainted with the Beach Boys and later produced several singles for the group in the 1980s and the 1990s, including "Kokomo" (1988), which topped U.S. record charts.
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of his passing, Terry Melcher's estimated net worth was around $20 million. His wealth was primarily accumulated through his successful career as a record producer and songwriter. Melcher not only produced hit records, but he also earned income from his work in film and television, as well as royalties from his collaborations. Given the continued interest in his music, it’s likely that his estate has maintained significant value into 2025.
Career, Business, and Investments
Terry Melcher's career spanned several decades, during which he made a name for himself in the music industry. He first gained prominence as a producer for The Byrds and later for The Beach Boys, contributing to their classic albums. Alongside his production work, Melcher also engaged in songwriting, penning tracks that became hits for various artists. His keen business acumen led to successful ventures beyond music, including roles in television and film production. Throughout his career, Melcher was instrumental in developing new sounds and styles in popular music, making him a pivotal figure in the industry.
On August 8–9, 1969, the house was the site of the murders of Tate (who was eight months pregnant at the time), coffee heiress Abigail Folger, hairdresser Jay Sebring, writer Wojciech Frykowski and Steven Parent by members of Manson's "family".
Some authors and law enforcement personnel have theorized that the Cielo Drive house was targeted by Manson as revenge for Melcher's rejection and that Manson was unaware that he and Bergen had moved out.
However, family member Charles "Tex" Watson stated that Manson and company did, in fact, know that Melcher was no longer living there, and Melcher's former roommate Mark Lindsay stated, "Terry and I talked about it later and Terry said Manson knew (Melcher had moved) because Manson or someone from his organization left a note on Terry's porch in Ma
libu."
Social Network
While there may not be direct social networks for Terry Melcher currently, his legacy lives on through tribute pages and fan sites across various platforms. Music enthusiasts share memories, anecdotes, and music influenced by Melcher's work, keeping the spirit of his artistry alive.
Melcher has been credited with helping to shape the sound of 1960s surf music in California. In the early 1960s, Melcher and Bruce Johnston formed the vocal duet Bruce & Terry. The duo had hits like "Custom Machine" and "Summer Means Fun". Melcher and Johnston also created another group, The Rip Chords, which had a top 10 hit with "Hey Little Cobra". Later, Johnston would join the Beach Boys.
Education
Details regarding Terry Melcher’s educational background are limited; however, it is known that he was exposed to music from a young age, which undoubtedly shaped his future. Growing up in a family connected to the entertainment industry (his mother was actress Doris Day), Melcher’s upbringing facilitated a natural incline towards music and production.
