Music World Mourns the Loss of Visionary Agent and Pilot Dave Shapiro: Champion of Artists and Founder of Sound Talent Group Dies in Tragic San Diego Plane Crash

San Diego, CA — The music industry is reeling from the devastating loss of Dave Shapiro, a beloved music agent, record label owner, and licensed pilot, who is believed to have died in a tragic plane crash in the Murphy Canyon neighborhood of San Diego on Tuesday.

Shapiro, co-founder of Sound Talent Group and Velocity Records, was widely regarded as one of the most respected figures in the rock and metal scene. His life was one of tireless dedication to elevating artists, fostering meaningful relationships, and pushing the boundaries of independent talent representation.

According to Federal Aviation Administration records, Shapiro owned the Alaska-based company that operated the Cessna Citation II involved in the crash. While authorities have yet to officially confirm the identities of those on board, Sound Talent Group issued a public statement Thursday confirming that Shapiro was among the victims.

He was 49 years old and is survived by family, friends, and a global network of colleagues and musicians who cherished him not only for his professional impact but for his deep humanity.

A Lifelong Passion for Music

Dave Shapiro’s path into the music world was built on passion and persistence. Starting out as a booking agent nearly two decades ago, Shapiro climbed the ranks through grit and vision. He spent time at two of the most powerful agencies in the world—United Talent Agency and The Agency Group—before branching off to co-found Sound Talent Group in 2018, a San Diego-based agency that emphasized artist-first representation.

From heavy metal giants to genre-blending newcomers, Shapiro’s roster reflected his broad appreciation for creativity and innovation. More than just a middleman between bands and venues, Shapiro served as a mentor, friend, and advocate for hundreds of artists trying to navigate an often-turbulent industry.

“Dave was more than a booking agent—he was family,” said longtime client and friend Jeremy McKinnon, lead vocalist for A Day to Remember. “He believed in us when we were just kids, and he helped build the foundation of our success.”

Leadership During Crisis

During the COVID-19 pandemic, when live performances halted and many musicians faced financial uncertainty, Shapiro emerged as a vocal leader. In an interview with the San Diego Union-Tribune, he urged artists and agents alike to focus on creative solutions during the shutdown.

“This is the new reality,” Shapiro said at the time. “So, instead of focusing on the negatives, let’s focus on how we get through this, how we get our artists back on the road, and how we get creative with new revenue streams.”

Those words encapsulated his drive—not just to succeed, but to lift others up along the way.

A Pilot’s Heart

Beyond music, Shapiro had a passion for aviation. His LinkedIn profile listed him as a certified airline transport pilot, and many friends say that flying was one of his greatest joys. Social media posts show him proudly piloting aircraft on his own and with friends.

Tragically, it was likely this love for flying that contributed to the accident that ended his life. While investigators have not confirmed whether Shapiro was flying the Cessna at the time of the crash, photos and Instagram videos from hours before the incident show him in the cockpit alongside drummer Daniel Williams, who is also believed to have died in the crash.

A Legacy of Inspiration

The loss of Dave Shapiro has sparked an outpouring of tributes from across the world. Nate Blasdell, a former guitarist turned booking agent, credited Shapiro with launching his career and described him as “the best in the game.”

“Dave was truly iconic,” Blasdell told reporters. “He believed in people. He gave young artists a shot when no one else would.”

As the industry continues to mourn, Shapiro’s influence will be felt for decades to come. In the studios, tour buses, and venues where his presence once loomed large, his legacy will continue in the music and memories he helped create.