Charlie Camilleri A Legacy to Be Remembered

By Sandy Graham

The Canadian Music Industry has lost ‘one of our own’. Charlie Camilleri, well known in the old school circles, has left us, and the business has lost an icon who truly paved a path for future record reps to learn the ropes.

I met Charlie in the mid-70’s in Montreal, when I was a very young Music Director at CJFM. When all the reps would show up on Wednesday to push their latest new hits, they were a young hip bunch, dressed in the latest looks. Not Charlie. He would show up in shirt and tie, looking more like a bank manager than a record rep. But boy did he know his stuff. He was a music man, from his relationships with radio, nightclubs, theatres and the artists, managing to make them all happy and feel good about this business.

Burton Cummings and CharlieCharlie was also more mature than the rest. We were in our 20’s and he was pushing 40-ish so that was mature for us back then. He was a gentleman as well, and never made you feel obligated to play his latest ‘push’, but somehow he always got his songs played and charted by his persuasive promo skills.

Charlie also spent time with his artists, and was always on the tour with them; making lifelong friends with stars like Tony Bennett, Ronnie Hawkins, Tom Jones and Andy Williams to name a few.

Charlie and the HawkOn December 23, 2011, after a long illness, Charles passed away in his 88th year. 

After serving in WWII, Charlie returned home and joined his beloved Toronto Argonauts where he found teammates for life. He was rewarded with two Grey Cup wins in 1946 & 1947.  He now reunites with some of his legendary teammates. He also played and won a Canadian softball championship with People’s Credit Jewellers, giving him two pro sports championships in the same year. Tom Jones and CharlieCharity also played an vital role in his life as he served for many years with the Variety Club of Canada, also being awarded the prestigious Heart Award.

After his athletics, he enjoyed a wonderful career with CBS Records where for decades he was loved by his fellow employees and artists alike. After many successful years, he retired from CBS to home life. Charlie was there in the beginning of the industry in Canada, and so many of us will remember him as one of the original trailblazers that have built this music business into what it is today. He will be remembered for his enduring friendships and dedication to the people around him. 

The family will be holding a private service and a celebration of Charlie’s life in the new year. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the charity of your choice.

Charlie Cammileri with the Argos

Dennis Wilson and CharlieHe is lovingly remembered by his wife Margaret, sons Rick and Ron, and grandson Spencer. Charles will be greatly missed by his nephews, niece and relatives as he reunites with his parents Joseph and Mary and brothers Michael and Vincent. The family will be holding a private service and a celebration of Charlie’s life in the New Year. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the charity of your choice.

The music industry has lost an amazing man who will always be remembered for his charismatic smile and indelible personality. Charlie, it was good to know you.