Donald Ross Tarlton CM (12 May 1943 – 13 April 2026) was a Canadian record producer and promoter. He promoted many concerts and Canadian musicians under the name Donald K. Donald.
Early life and education Tarlton graduated from Rosemere High School in the Laurentian area and then attended Sir George Williams University (now Concordia University). His interest in entertainment promotion began in his youth.
Career In 1966, Tarlton founded Donald K. Donald Productions, a concert promotion and booking company.
Tarlton was one of several people who founded the Montreal-based Aquarius Records, noted for artists such as April Wine, Corey Hart and Sum 41.
Tarlton was also an occasional theatre promoter in the United States, including the Tony Award-winning Black and Blue and Tango Argentino.
In 1998, Tarlton founded the music industry promotion company Le Groupe DKD and founded several new music labels.
Death Tarlton died from Parkinson's disease on 13 April 2026, at the age of 82.
Awards and recognition 1982: Félix Award, Producer of the Year 1989: Tony Awards, Nomination, Best Musical "Black and Blue" 2000: Appointed Member of the Order of Canada 2002: Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee Medal 2007: Walt Grealis Special Achievement Award, presented at the Juno Awards 2012: Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal 2015: SOCAN Special Achievement Award
References
External links Le Groupe DKD (The Donald K Donald Entertainment Group) Encyclopedia of Music in Canada: Donald K. Donald