RIP: Jerry Ragovoy

The death of Jerry Ragovoy seems to have gone unnoticed by the media. This is surprising, given the incredible catalogue of hits he wrote or worked on. “Time is on My Side” was an iconic hit for the Rolling Stones. Janis Joplin made a classic out of “Piece of my Heart”.

Ragovoy was in the music business from the age of 23, writing and producing for The Castelles and The Majors. 

Using Norman Meade as a pen name, Ragovoy wrote a number of unforgettable songs. One of the most famous is “Time Is on My Side,” first recorded by New Orleans singer Irma Thomas. Most people, however, remember the version by the Rolling Stones. Another was “Piece of My Heart,” first recorded by Aretha Franklin’s sister Erma and later covered by Janis Joplin.

Jerry also co-wrote “Pata Pata” for South African singer, Miriam Makeba. Later in the 60s Ragovoy opened The Hit Factory. “Songs in the Key of Life” by Stevie Wonder was one of many albums recorded at The Hit Factory. Jerry Ragovoy,

Ragovoy died of a heart attack at the age of 80 on July 13, 2011.