Jerry Wexler was a journalist turned record producer for Atlantic Records who became a partner and shareholder of the company. He produced giants such as LaVern Baker and Aretha Franklin. He was also the influencial figure in Atlantic's distribution deal with Stax Records. That arrangement proved to be enormously successful for both compaines. Wexler won numerous industry awards such as best producer in 1967 and 1968. He went on to produce artist Bob Dylan, Dr. John, Delaney and Bonnie and Dire Straits. Jerry Wexler is a living legend.