Dave Shapiro, a prominent music agent and co-founder of Sound Talent Group, tragically lost his life in a plane crash in San Diego, California, on May 22, 2025. This article provides a comprehensive overview of Shapiro’s life, career, and lasting impact on the music industry, incorporating the latest details surrounding his untimely passing. It includes a table summarizing his personal and professional information, addressing the recent tragedy and clarifying that this Dave Shapiro is distinct from the AI researcher with a similar name.
Personal Information
The following table summarizes the most current and verified details about Dave Shapiro, the music agent, based on recent reports and his public contributions:
Dave Shapiro Personal Information
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Dave Shapiro |
| Profession | Music Agent, Co-Founder of Sound Talent Group, Pilot, Flight Instructor |
| Known For | Representing rock bands like Sum 41, Pierce the Veil, and I Prevail; founding Sound Talent Group and Velocity Records |
| Location | United States (based in San Diego, CA, at time of passing) |
| Online Presence | Active on social media, including Instagram, sharing aviation and music posts |
| Key Interests | Music industry, heavy rock, aviation, pilot instruction |
| Birth Year | 1983 (aged 42 at time of passing) |
| Status | Deceased, May 22, 2025, in a San Diego plane crash |
Addressing the Plane Crash
On May 22, 2025, Dave Shapiro was among those killed in a tragic plane crash in San Diego’s Murphy Canyon neighborhood. The Cessna 550 aircraft, carrying six passengers, crashed into a residential street around 3:45 AM local time (10:45 GMT) after departing New Jersey and refueling in Wichita, Kansas. The crash destroyed one home, damaged ten others, and caused multiple injuries on the ground. Federal authorities, including the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), are investigating, with preliminary reports noting the plane hit power lines before veering into the neighborhood. All aboard are presumed dead, though the exact death toll and identities remain under confirmation.
Among those believed to have been on the plane was Daniel Williams, former drummer for The Devil Wears Prada, who posted Instagram stories from the aircraft, including one showing Shapiro in the pilot seat. Shapiro, an avid pilot and certified flight instructor, founded Velocity Aviation, a company offering pilot instruction. His social media bio highlighted his passion for aviation, complementing his music career.
Background and Career
Dave Shapiro was a towering figure in the heavy rock music scene, known for his visionary approach to artist representation and live music promotion. Born in 1983, Shapiro built a career centered on nurturing talent and elevating the live music experience. In 2018, he co-founded Sound Talent Group (STG) with Tim Borror and Matt Andersen, following stints at the Agency Group and United Talent Agency. STG quickly became a powerhouse in the music industry, representing prominent rock bands such as Sum 41, Eve 6, Pierce the Veil, I Prevail, Set It Off, Silverstein, Parkway Drive, and Story of the Year.
Shapiro also managed Velocity Records, a label with a roster including Thursday and Craig Owens. His work extended beyond representation, as he played a pivotal role in shaping artists’ careers and enhancing the live music experience for fans worldwide. As a founding member of the National Independent Talent Organization (NITO), Shapiro was instrumental in its formation and funding, helping music industry peers navigate the challenges of the pandemic shutdown.
Contributions to the Music Industry
Shapiro’s contributions were profound and far-reaching:
- Artist Representation: His roster of clients included some of the most influential bands in heavy rock and metalcore, helping them secure tours, record deals, and global recognition. His work with Sum 41 and Pierce the Veil, among others, solidified his reputation as a trusted agent.
- Sound Talent Group: Co-founding STG marked a significant milestone, creating a platform that prioritized artist development and innovative live music experiences. The agency’s success reflected Shapiro’s dedication to the industry.
- Velocity Records: Through this label, Shapiro supported emerging and established artists, fostering a creative environment for bands like Thursday to thrive.
- NITO Leadership: His contributions to NITO were critical during the live music industry’s pandemic-related shutdown, providing resources and advocacy for independent talent agencies.
- Aviation and Music Intersection: Shapiro’s passion for flying, evident in his role as a pilot and founder of Velocity Aviation, complemented his music career, showcasing his multifaceted talents.
Legacy and Impact
Dave Shapiro’s sudden passing has left a void in the music industry. Colleagues and artists have mourned his loss, emphasizing his passion, dedication, and mentorship. The Devil Wears Prada’s tribute to Daniel Williams, presumed to have been on the same flight, underscores the close-knit community Shapiro fostered. His work with NITO and STG ensured that countless musicians and industry professionals could thrive, even in challenging times.
Shapiro’s love for aviation, while a personal passion, also highlighted his adventurous spirit. His social media posts about flying reflected the same enthusiasm he brought to music, inspiring those around him to pursue their passions fearlessly.
Clarification on Identity
To avoid confusion, this Dave Shapiro, the music agent, is not the AI researcher and futurist known as @DavidShap_AI, who is active on X and Substack as of May 23, 2025. The similarity in names has led to occasional mix-ups, but the AI researcher remains alive and uninvolved in this incident.
Conclusion
Dave Shapiro’s life was marked by an unwavering commitment to music, aviation, and community. His contributions to the heavy rock scene, through Sound Talent Group, Velocity Records, and NITO, transformed the industry and uplifted countless artists. The tragic plane crash on May 22, 2025, cut short a remarkable career, but his legacy endures through the artists he championed and the community he built. As the music world mourns, Shapiro’s vision and passion continue to inspire.
