In 1969, the Manson Family carried out one of the most shocking crimes in American history. Their brutal attack on Sharon Tate and others left the world in fear. But what if those murders were never meant for her? Chaos: The Manson Murders, the newest Netflix crime documentary, has not only shed light on Charles Manson and his grievous crimes, but also provides theories as to why Charles Manson did what he did.
Before Sharon Tate lived at 10050 Cielo Drive, music producer Terry Melcher called it home. He once crossed paths with Charles Manson, a man desperate for a music career. Some believe that rejection fueled Manson’s rage, making Melcher his real target. So, what really happened to Terry Melcher after the Manson murders?
What was Terry Melcher’s connection to Charles Manson?
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Terry Melcher was a well-known music producer who worked with the Byrds and other artists. His connection to Charles Manson began through Beach Boys member Dennis Wilson. Wilson had picked up two female hitchhikers who were part of the Manson Family, leading him to meet Manson himself. Fascinated by Manson’s charisma, Wilson introduced him to Melcher, hoping to help Manson start a music career.
Melcher allowed Manson to record a few sessions but decided not to sign him. Around the same time, the Beach Boys recorded one of Manson’s songs, “Cease to Exist,” they changed its title to “Never Learn Not to Love” and credited Melcher instead. Manson was furious. Soon after, members of the Manson Family destroyed two of Wilson’s cars. Months later, the Manson Family committed the Tate murders at Melcher’s former home, raising questions about whether he was the true target.
Terry Melcher distanced himself from the controversy and focused on his music
Some theories suggest Manson mistakenly believed Melcher still lived in the house. Others argue the murders were meant to send a message. According to Chaos: The Manson Murders, based on Tom O’Neill’s book, Melcher may have continued contact with the Manson Family even after the murders.
Despite these speculations, Melcher distanced himself from the controversy and focused on his music career. He continued working with artists and later moved into television production. He passed away from melanoma on November 19, 2004.