Primary Wave Music Founder-CEO Larry Mestel Named City of Hope’s Spirit of Life Honoree

Larry Mestel, the Founder and CEO of Primary Wave Music, has been selected to receive the 2026 Spirit of Life Award from City of Hope. The prominent U.S. cancer center will present this, its highest philanthropic honor, at a gala event scheduled for October 27, 2026, at the Pacific Design Center in Los Angeles. The award recognizes influential figures within the Music, Film and Entertainment Industry, joining a distinguished list of past recipients from the entertainment world.

Mestel established Primary Wave Music in 2006, and under his leadership, it has transformed from a music publishing firm into a comprehensive intellectual property and brand management company. The business now oversees a vast catalog exceeding 100,000 copyrights, including legendary works by artists like Prince, Whitney Houston, Bob Marley, and Stevie Nicks. This expansion into areas such as marketing, branding, and film production illustrates a modern industry shift where rights holders actively shape and extend artistic legacies far beyond traditional royalty collection.

"We are proud to honor Larry Mestel with the Spirit of Life Award," stated Kristin Bertell, Chief Philanthropy Officer at City of Hope. She emphasized that his philosophy of building partnerships through trust and shared vision aligns with the collaborative spirit of the organization's philanthropic community, which unites to advance patient care and research. Industry observers point out that such alliances are increasingly strategic; for instance, City of Hope, founded in 1913, is a National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center known for pioneering developments in bone marrow transplantation and diabetes research, making high-profile support particularly impactful.

In accepting the honor, Mestel drew a direct line between his professional principles and a powerful personal motivation. He noted that the cooperative mindset vital to success in the music business is equally crucial in the battle against cancer. The cause resonates deeply with him following the loss of his younger sister to cancer last year, making his support for City of Hope's frontline work profoundly meaningful. This personal connection often galvanizes broader engagement, as networks within the entertainment industry mobilize around causes championed by respected leaders.

The 2026 fundraising gala is being chaired by Evan Lamberg, President of Universal Music Publishing Group North America, who also serves on the relevant City of Hope board. Lamberg praised Mestel's and Primary Wave's early contributions, expressing confidence that the upcoming event will be a landmark celebration of their commitment. Those interested in the Spirit of Life campaign can find more information or explore participation opportunities by visiting cityofhope.org/mfei or contacting mfeievents@coh.org.