Harold “Budd” Carr
With heavy hearts and profound sadness, we share the passing of Harold “Budd” Carr on July 20, 2025. To the world, Budd was a legendary force in the film and music industries, a pioneer whose work shaped the soundscape of cinema for generations. But to those lucky enough to know him, he was so much more: a loving husband, a devoted father, a wise mentor, and a cherished friend.
Born with a deep love of music and a natural gift for connecting people, Budd’s career began as a music agent representing some of the most iconic artists of our time; The Cream, James Taylor, Bob Seger, Carole King, Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, and Eric Clapton. His instincts and vision were unmatched, and in 1980, he founded his own management company, where he guided the careers of platinum-selling acts like Kansas, Captain & Tennille, Heatwave, and Slaughter with integrity and heart.
In the 1980s, Budd found what many would say was his true calling, music supervision. For more than four decades, he was the creative ear behind the music in over 100 films, including every Oliver Stone project since Salvador-from Platoon and The Doors to Natural Born Killers and Snowden. He brought authenticity and soul to the screen, collaborating with acclaimed directors like Michael Mann, James Cameron, Norman Jewison, and Tate Taylor. Budd had a rare gift for weaving music into story in a way that moved people.
But Budd’s creativity wasn’t limited to music supervision. He was also a passionate producer of documentaries and series, driven by a desire to spotlight powerful human stories. His work on Miracles Out of Nowhere and the deeply moving 911 At Ease documentary reflected his belief in the healing power of music and storytelling.
What made Budd truly special, however, was not just his professional success, it was his heart. He mentored countless young professionals, always offering encouragement, wisdom, and a listening ear. He gave back generously, serving on the boards of City of Hope, The Recording Academy, and Cal State’s Entertainment Studies Program. He never lost sight of the importance of community, compassion, and lifting others up.
At the center of Budd’s world was his family. He shared 55 beautiful years with his beloved wife, Jeanne, a love that was marked by laughter, adventure, truly an unwavering partnership. He was endlessly proud of his children, Elizabeth, Ryan, and Jon, and loved their spouses, Greg, Jessica, and Katrina, as his own. His pride in his family was profound, and his greatest joy was simply being with them.
Budd Carr lived a life full of meaning, music, and love. He leaves behind a legacy that resonates far beyond the screen—a legacy of kindness, vision, and a belief in the transformative power of art. His absence is deeply felt, but his spirit will echo on in the lives he touched, the stories he helped tell, and the music that still moves us.
Rest well, Budd. You were deeply loved, and you will be forever missed.
In honor of Budd’s generous spirit and commitment to helping others, donations can be made in his memory to: City of Hope, 911 At Ease, Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation, or UniteWithUkraine.com/Heroes.
