Music Merchandising Pioneer Ira Sokoloff Passes Away

The co-founder of the Great Southern Company passed away from complications due to COVID-19.

June 1, 2020

Music merchandising icon Ira Sokoloff passed away May 28 due to complications from COVID-19.

Sokoloff passed away at Cooper University Hospital in Camden, NJ. He is survived by his sister Marlene (and husband, Allen) Shaklan; his children: Adam Sokoloff, Shara (and husband, Harry) Cunningham, Ari (and husband, David) Arnone; grandchildren: Jessica (and husband, Tom) Dortch, Samantha, Max, Milly, Oliver, Eva Grace and Levi; nephews: Steven (and wife, Hana) Shaklan and Daniel (and wife, Jennifer) Shaklan and many friends.

As a pioneer and originator of music merchandising, Sokoloff co-founded the Great Southern Company, considered one of the most innovative and successful concert merchandising agencies in the U.S. Over the course of his career, he worked with clients including Billy Joel, Bon Jovi, Cher, Depeche Mode, Duran Duran, INXS, Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, Mötley Crüe, The Police and ZZ Top.

A celebration of his life is planned for a later date. Donations in memory of Sokoloff may be

made to The Palliative Care Program at The Cooper Foundation. If you would like to donate, please visit

Foundation.Cooperhealth.org

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