Music Executive Dave Shapiro Dies in Plane Crash at 42

Dave Shapiro, a prominent figure in the music industry known for his contributions to the heavy metal and hard rock genres, tragically passed away in a plane crash in San Diego at the age of 42. The incident occurred on Thursday morning, resulting in the loss of Shapiro and two of his colleagues.

According to the Federal Aviation Administration, Shapiro was the owner of the aircraft that crashed. His agency, Sound Talent Group, confirmed the news, expressing profound sorrow over the untimely death of their co-founder and friends.

Shapiro co-established Sound Talent Group in 2018 alongside Tim Borror and Matt Andersen. The agency has represented a diverse roster of alternative music acts spanning various subgenres, including pop-punk and metalcore. Notable clients have included bands such as Hanson, Pierce The Veil, Parkway Drive, Sum 41, and Vanessa Carlton.

In addition to his work with Sound Talent Group, Shapiro was a passionate supporter of independent musicians and played a pivotal role in founding the National Independent Talent Organization. His efforts were recognized when he was included in Billboard's 2012 "30 Under 30" list, celebrating promising young talent in the entertainment industry.

Shapiro's journey in music began in his high school years when he formed a band called Count the Stars, which eventually signed with Victory Records. This early experience allowed him to forge critical connections that would later aid his transition into the business side of the music industry. Colleagues described him as exceptionally kind and always willing to assist newcomers, a trait that distinguished him in a highly competitive environment.

His passion extended beyond music; Shapiro developed a strong interest in aviation after taking his first flight lesson at age 22. He owned a flight school named Velocity Aviation and a record label of the same name. His dedication to flying paralleled his commitment to music, with Shapiro even establishing an office for his agency within a hangar in San Diego.

Shapiro's love for aviation was evident as he described flying as a means of focus and a respite from daily distractions. He acquired his airline transport pilot rating, the highest certification in the U.S., and was known for his adventurous spirit, which included base-jumping.

In personal life, Shapiro married Julia Pawlik Shapiro in 2016. Their unique wedding included flying to a glacier in Denali National Park, highlighting their shared love for adventure and the outdoors.

Following the tragic crash, tributes poured in from colleagues and musicians who remembered Shapiro as genuine and supportive. Many pointed to his impact on lesser-known bands, providing them with opportunities to gain exposure in the industry. The band Pierce The Veil, which he had recently begun co-managing, reminisced about their close relationship, revealing that they often stayed at his home during tours.

Shapiro was flying back to San Diego after attending a concert when the accident occurred. His passing is mourned by numerous friends and industry peers, including notable figures like Sum 41's Deryck Whibley, who acknowledged Shapiro's significant influence during a challenging period in their career.

As the music community reflects on Shapiro's legacy, it is clear that he left an indelible mark on the industry, championing independent artists and fostering relationships that spanned across various genres.