Clearing the Way: Robin Kaye’s Legacy as a Champion for Music Supervision

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The music industry is still grieving the tragic deaths of Robin Kaye, a veteran music supervisor for American Idol, and her husband, Thomas Deluca, who were discovered dead in their residence under suspicious circumstances, suggesting a potential double murder.

Kaye is being fondly remembered by her peers as a true master of her craft, possessing an exceptional ability to collaborate with creative minds, and for her tireless advocacy in elevating the role and importance of music supervision within the industry.

According to veteran producer and founding member of the Guild of Music Supervisors, Jonathan McHugh (as reported by The Hollywood Reporter), she was a staunch supporter of supervisors. Her demeanor was composed, practical, and soothing to everyone around her. She had been involved with the Guild from early on, producing our award ceremonies, and she strongly advocated for the goal of refining the craft and ensuring that established supervisors were aiding their less experienced colleagues.

Jill Meyers, who served as music supervisor on the competing music show The Voice for more than a decade, expressed that she had a strong connection with Kaye and Ginsburg. She explained that it seemed as if they were all working in unison, three individuals from opposing programs who cherished one another and consistently strived to support and uplift each other.

Maureen Crowe, the initial president of the Guild, affectionately referred to Kaye as a “radiant beacon” in our community, acknowledging her significant contributions as an early board member and vice president, and praising her role in establishing the Guild of Music Supervisors Award ceremony.

Crowe stated that she possessed an extraordinary collection of abilities, which she utilized to achieve remarkable outcomes. She applied these skills not for her own benefit, but to assist others in growing and thriving. Her influence will persistently inspire future generations. Sadly, both she and Tom will be deeply missed.

Though Kaye’s business influence was extensive, her achievements in shaping others’ successes are most evident with the Idol series. This role granted her more sway than what is usually seen in music supervision tasks. Beyond the numerous approvals she had to secure for the show, unlike a typical program where songs merely accompany specific scenes, on a singing competition, these approvals could significantly impact an artist’s career trajectory.

McHugh explains, “The correct tune can make all the difference between having a successful career or not. In essence, Robin’s work served as a catalyst for budding artists’ careers. Often, artists only had 30 seconds or a minute to earn a ‘thumbs up’ or ‘down.’ Robin was the type of person who would consistently put effort into ensuring that if that was the song an artist wanted, she would do her best to help them get it.

Host Randy Jackson shared on Instagram that Kaye consistently put in the extra effort, diligently making sure that all the songs used in the show were properly placed and had the necessary clearance.

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Back in 2009, I had the privilege of helping secure the rights to Led Zeppelin’s “Whole Lotta Love” for Adam Lambert, a feat that still stands out as a remarkable achievement due to Zeppelin’s well-known caution when it comes to allowing their music to be used in films and TV productions.

In 2009, Kaye mentioned that we often discussed Led Zeppelin, as it was understood we weren’t capable of replicating them. Adam, I believe, initially suggested it, and I replied that it wasn’t possible. However, as we began to realize just how gifted Adam was, I felt they might consider him for the role. I didn’t approach them casually asking if we could take it on this year; they wouldn’t have agreed. But with Adam in the picture, it started making sense.

Kaye added, ‘It’s always beneficial to inquire.’ I don’t consider a ‘no’ from anyone as a final ‘no.’ The nature of this field is constantly evolving, and circumstances can shift.

Jacquie Perryman, a longtime friend of Kaye and a consultant for Paul McCartney’s MPL Music Publishing, recalls: “Kaye had a knack for guiding artists and creatives. She was exceptional at discovering music that appealed to younger audiences who might not be familiar with the older tunes.

Perryman stated that Kaye felt more like a sister to her, mentioning their initial professional collaboration in the ’90s when Perryman hired Kaye at PolyGram to develop the licensing department. According to Perryman, Kaye was admired and loved because she was an honest individual who didn’t pretend to be someone she wasn’t.

Upon learning the news, she let out a shocking gasp, for it was utterly heart-wrenching,” she expresses. “Robin and Tom were at the height of their vitality, they were admirable individuals who always showed kindness to those in their circle.

It’s widely recognized that Kaye’s unique connections within the music publishing industry were a significant factor in her success, according to both McHugh and Perryman.

Perryman comments, ‘She had the ability to perform impressive songs for the show as her standing and connections were unmatched.’ The industry is filled with arrogance, but she managed to collaborate with everyone. She wasn’t self-centered at all; instead, she focused on the role of music supervision being appreciated and respected. Moreover, she admired artists and music deeply.’

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2025-07-19 18:54