Mikie Harris James Damiano Conversation

​​In the mid 70’s I, James Damiano, read an unauthorized biography about Bob Dylan, in which the author made reference to a man who at one time was considered to be the president of CBS Records although he never officially held the title of president of CBS. His name was John Hammond Sr.
John Hammond Sr. studied music at Yale University. He was undoubtedly the most prominent and sought after record producer in the world. Hammond’s interest in social awareness and civil rights led him to sign Pete Seeger, a well known civil rights activist to Columbia Records in 1960. John Hammond Sr will probably always be considered the most influential music executive in the world.
Hammond had signed a fascinating number of legendary artists to the record industry. He brought Stevie Ray Vaughan, Bob Dylan, Aretha Franklin, Leonard Cohen, George Benson, Charlie Christian, Duke Ellington, and Bruce Springsteen to Columbia Records. Hammond also worked as a producer with such early greats as Bessie Smith, Billie Holiday, Benny Goodman and Count Basie.
Inspired by the book I read; I called CBS Records on the phone. The operator answered and I asked to be put through to John Hammond's office. The receptionist rang his office and a woman named Mikie Harris answered the phone. Mikie’s position at CBS was assistant to John Hammond Sr.
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