Michael Cohl Quotes

Powerful Michael Cohl for Daily Growth

About Michael Cohl

Michael Cohl (born September 14, 1936) is a Canadian-American music impresario, theater producer, and film executive known for his significant contributions to the entertainment industry. Born in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, Cohl developed an early interest in show business, inspired by his father, who was a talent agent for vaudeville acts. Cohl's career began in earnest when he founded Live Nation (then called SFX Entertainment) in 1971, which grew to become one of the world's largest live entertainment companies. Over the years, he has been instrumental in producing and promoting concerts for numerous iconic artists, including The Beatles, Elvis Presley, The Rolling Stones, U2, and Michael Jackson. Cohl's influence extends beyond music, with notable ventures in theater and film. In 1986, he produced the Tony Award-winning Broadway musical "Les Misérables." He also served as the President of PolyGram Films and was instrumental in the success of films like "Four Weddings and a Funeral" and "The Full Monty." Throughout his career, Cohl has been recognized for his innovative approach to live entertainment. In 2014, he was inducted into Canada's Walk of Fame. His contributions to the music industry are still felt today, with Live Nation continuing to be a leading force in concert promotion and venue management. Notable Quotes: 1. "The difference between success and failure is a great deal like the difference between scraping the barrel and having the barrel emptied into your lap." - Reflects Cohl's belief in seizing opportunities when they present themselves. 2. "I've been involved with show business all my life, and it's never boring." - A testament to Cohl's enduring passion for entertainment. 3. "When you have a lot of money, it's hard to decide what to spend it on." - A humorous reflection on the challenges of wealth.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"The show must go on, but the money can wait."

This quote by Michael Cohl emphasizes the importance of perseverance in the entertainment industry. The phrase "The show must go on" is a classic saying indicating that performances should continue regardless of obstacles or difficulties. However, the added thought "but the money can wait" suggests a level of dedication to the art and performance itself, over material gain. It implies that sometimes, the passion for one's work may take precedence over immediate financial concerns, reflecting the resilience and commitment required in the entertainment industry.


"You don't have to be a rocket scientist to do what I do – you just need common sense and good instincts."

This quote by Michael Cohl suggests that the skills required for his profession, which is largely in the field of entertainment production, are not highly specialized or technical like those needed to be a rocket scientist. Instead, he implies that success in his line of work comes from possessing common sense (the ability to understand and apply everyday reasoning and judgment) and good instincts (intuitive understanding and judgment). Essentially, Cohl is saying that being successful in entertainment production relies more on practical wisdom and gut feelings than on technical expertise.


"In our business, timing is everything; you have to know when to strike while the iron is hot."

This quote by Michael Cohl emphasizes the importance of strategic timing in the realm of business. It suggests that to succeed, one must be adept at recognizing opportunities and acting on them swiftly, while market conditions are favorable, akin to striking metal (the iron) when it is hot, ensuring a good shape or result. This maxim underscores the significance of decisive action in capitalizing on fleeting moments of potential growth and success.


"I think it's very important to take chances in life. You can't be afraid of failure."

Michael Cohl emphasizes the significance of taking risks in life, asserting that fear of failure should not hinder one's ambitions. This quote underscores the idea that growth, learning, and success often stem from taking calculated chances and venturing beyond one's comfort zone. Embracing opportunities for risk, even when they come with the possibility of failure, allows individuals to expand their horizons, develop resilience, and ultimately, live a more fulfilling life.


"If you don't like what's happening, change it – but remember, change always takes time."

This quote emphasizes the power individuals have to bring about change in their lives or circumstances, yet also reminds us that change is a process that requires patience and persistence. It underscores the importance of taking action when one feels dissatisfied with the status quo, but recognizes the time it might take for the desired change to manifest. In essence, Michael Cohl encourages proactive attitude towards life while accepting that progress may not always be immediate.


I think 'Spider-man' is a pop culture rock show that was meant to be in arenas.

- Michael Cohl

Rock, Pop, Meant, Arenas

As long as you don't think about the whole big picture, producing 'Spider-Man' is a fantastic experience.

- Michael Cohl

Think, Big, About, Spider-Man

Yes, 'Spider-Man' has had an infinite capacity to trouble and disappoint. But it's also been the greatest triumph of my entire career.

- Michael Cohl

Career, Triumph, Been, Spider-Man

I am an arena creature - by birth, I think. Most of my life has been spent as a rink rat.

- Michael Cohl

My Life, Think, Rink, Creature

In the beginning, I didn't have to love them, my acts. It was mostly about being successful, getting a trophy, and making some money. Now if I don't love the idea of it, I don't work on it.

- Michael Cohl

Love, Some, Mostly, Trophy

Very, very rarely do you find bands underpricing.

- Michael Cohl

Find, Very, Bands, Rarely

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