Alan Oken

David Libert, who passed away in February 2024 at age 81, had a multifaceted career in the music industry. He began as a founding member of the 1960s group The Happenings, which achieved chart success with songs like "See You in September." After leaving the group, Libert transitioned into artist management and booking.

His career included roles as a booking agent with the Willard Alexander Agency and as a road and tour manager, notably for Alice Cooper during their peak years from 1971 to 1975. He was even featured in Bob Greene's book about the Billion Dollar Babies tour and contributed background vocals to the album. Later, Libert established his own agency in Los Angeles, representing prominent artists such as George Clinton, Parliament/Funkadelic, and The Runaways. He also co-founded Available Entertainment in the late 1990s, continuing to manage a diverse roster of musicians. Beyond management, Libert wrote hit songs for other artists and produced several albums.

David Libert began his career in music as one of the original members of the group The Happenings. Hailing from Paterson, New Jersey, the band achieved significant success in the 1960s, landing hits on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Their notable singles included "See You in September" and a rendition of "I Got Rhythm," both reaching the number 3 position in 1966 and 1967, respectively. Libert also shared co-production credits on The Happenings' album "Piece of Mind."

Following his time with The Happenings, Libert shifted his focus to artist representation and management. He worked as a booking agent and later as a road manager for the band Rare Earth. His most prominent role in this capacity was serving as tour manager for Alice Cooper during their highly successful period between 1971 and 1975. Libert's involvement with Cooper's band during the "Billion Dollar Babies" tour in 1973 was documented in Bob Greene's book, "Billion Dollar Baby." He also provided background vocals on the "Billion Dollar Babies" album.

In 1976, Libert established the David Libert Agency in Los Angeles. This agency became a significant force in representing a wide array of influential artists, including George Clinton, Parliament/Funkadelic, Bootsy's Rubber Band, and members of The Runaways. In the late 1990s, he partnered with attorney Alan Oken to form Available Entertainment. This personal management company continued to represent a broad spectrum of talent, encompassing artists like Brian Auger, Living Colour, Sheila E., Vanilla Fudge, and the Iranian singer Sussan Deyhim, among others.

Beyond his work in management and touring, David Libert also contributed as a songwriter, penning hit songs for other notable acts such as The Tokens, The Chiffons, and Gerry & The Pacemakers. His production credits extended to albums for Tomi Rae Brown, Attus, Steel Water Blue, and Eric Kellogg's Imaginary Band. Libert also promoted numerous high-profile concerts throughout his career, including sold-out shows at Madison Square Garden and the Cricket Wireless Amphitheater.