One of the most successful instrumental performers in pop history, trumpeter Herb Alpert was also one of the industry's shrewdest businessmen.

The A&M record label he co-founded with business partner, Jerry Moss, ranks among the most prosperous artist-owned companies ever established.

On hearing a mariachi band at a Mexican bullfight, Alpert found a way to express musically what he felt while watching the wild responses of the crowd.

He adapted the flavor of the occasion to music and created the multiple trumpet sound for which he then became famous.