Longtime Montreal concert producer Donald K. Donald dead at 82
Posted April 14, 2026 12:13 am.
Last Updated April 14, 2026 5:22 pm.
Longtime Montreal record and concert producer Donald K. Tarlton, known popularly as Donald K. Donald, has died. He was 82.
His family says he “passed away peacefully” on Monday with his wife Annie by his side.
“Donald’s legacy will forever resonate in the hearts of those who were touched by his passionate spirit and unwavering dedication to the artists and the industry,” Tarlton’s loved ones wrote in a statement to media Tuesday.
“Donald’s family expresses their gratitude and are deeply moved by the outpouring of tributes and stories being shared by the media, public, friends and family. A beloved son, husband, brother, uncle, cousin, friend and colleague, we thank you for respecting the family’s privacy as they grieve the loss of a man who was, in every sense, larger than life.”
The Montreal-born Tarlton was a fixture of the city’s entertainment scene for decades having brought big names like The Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd, David Bowie, Bob Dylan to Montreal starting in the 1960s.
He went on to become a producer for The Rolling Stones in Canada and produced shows for AC/DC and Céline Dion.
In the 1980s, he ventured beyond promoting concerts to producing Broadway plays. Tarlton was nominated for a Tony Award for best musical for the production of Black & Blue in 1989. He was also awarded the Walt Grealis Special Achievement in 2007 at the Junos gala dinner.
“Donald’s illustrious entertainment industry career spanned more than 60 years, during which he left an indelible mark as an award-winning concert promoter, record and publishing executive, and a Broadway producer. Donald brought music from around the world home to Canada, and championed Canadian artists around the globe,” his family’s statement reads.
Tarlton was appointed member of Order of Canada, the highest civilian honour in the country, in 2000.
“Donald chose to build a career in Canada despite offers from New York, LA, and London and did so because he loved his country and the incredibly talented and unique artists, creatives, and industry professionals it produced,” his family wrote.
A private service will be held in Montreal, his family has indicated.
