1970: From Dorm Room Collaboration to International Production
Many students who got involved in the local music scene while at Tufts have gone on to reach international success. Bill Nowlin, A66, AG80, and Ken Irwin, A66, met at Tufts and teamed up with fellow musician Marian Leighton Levy to support music that was underrepresented in the mainstream, founding Rounder Records in 1970. The label has released over 3,000 titles, and includes genres of folk, bluegrass, Cajun, international, children’s music, reggae, and blues, making it a uniquely diverse and versatile independent record company.
Tracy Chapman, J86, a multi-platinum and Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter from Cleveland, Ohio, also got her start at Tufts. Chapman began performing as a student, winning the Tufts Annual Student/Faculty Talent Show as a freshman and regularly performing in the local folk scene around Cambridge. Chapman has been politically and socially active throughout her career, frequently performing at fundraisers and events in honor of human rights, and working to produce educational music about Black history for young audiences.
Also hailing from Tufts, Hank Azaria, A87, is an actor and producer most famous for his work on The Simpsons. During his time on the show he voiced eleven different characters, winning four Primetime Emmy Awards for his performances. Azaria made a lasting impact by kickstarting Tufts’ partnership with The Haven at College. Haven helps students struggling with substance abuse access rehabilitation services geared towards those on the college path.