Legendary record producer Jerry Wexler passed away this morning. He was 91 years old. In his fifty-plus year career, Wexler began as a music journalist (during which time he coined the term “rhythm and blues”) and went on to play a key production and executive role in the the careers of Aretha Franklin, Led Zeppelin, Dusty Springfield, Bob Dylan and Ray Charles. Click below for more on the life and times of one of the music industry’s most important figures, including a playlist of some of his finest production work.

• The Record Collector: Jerry Wexler Dies at Age 91

• Wex on Wax: 20 Essential Jerry Wexler Productions