We have some very sad news to report. It has been confirmed by Billboard.com, that legendary producer/engineer Andy Johns
passed away earlier yesterday (April 7).
Although no cause of death has yet been reported, the news of his death was confirmed by guitarist Stacy Blades (L.A. Guns), who’d been working with him when Johns was hospitalized last week. According to Blades, Johns had fallen ill for a number of reasons, including liver trouble. Our condolences go out to Mr. Johns' family, friends, and all the artists who worked with him.
Who was Andy Johns? Johns was one of Rock’s most iconic engineers and producers. The 61-year-old English music legend had his hand and expertise on some of Rock’s seminal albums including six Led Zeppelin and several Rolling Stones records. Artist’s like Eric Clapton, Blind Faith, and Free, along with 80s Hard Rock staples like L.A. Guns, Van Halen and Cinderella were all recipients of his massive talents. Johns was fortunate enough to learn from the best including Eddie Kramer (Jimmy Hendrix, Kiss, Pink Floyd, Alice Cooper).
With Kramer he was able to work as second engineer on recordings by Jimi Hendrix and many others at famous sound studios like Record Plant and Electric Lady in New York City, New York.
Johns began his career as a tape operator for Olympic Studios in London where he worked with Rod Stewart, Jethro Tull and Humble Pie. He worked with the Rolling Stones from 1968-1973 helping to capture the sounds for “Exile On Main Street” from Keith Richards’ mansion in the South of France.
Here is what the Heavy Music community is saying about the passing of Mr. Johns:
“Just heard about the passing of my friend and producer, Andy Johns. Words cannot express my sadness upon hearing this. Those of us who had the pleasure of knowing and working with Andy, you know what I’m saying. I loved you brother. Annette, you are in my thoughts and prayers.” - Michael Anthony (Van Halen, Chickenfoot)
“Ouch. So sad to hear of the passing of Andy Johns … great record producer. Lovely guy – patient, skilled, funny, encouraging, sharp … all the qualities you want in someone who is getting your music on to tape.
I remember him as one of the Olympic Studios team in Barnes … playing around with varying tape speeds and early phasing … with George Chiantz …
"He went on to become one of the very top rock producers in the world.
"Condolences to all the family. Andy was such a great guy. RIP. — Bri” - Brian May (Queens)
“Rest in peace Andy Johns. You were a TRUE legend!” - Sterling Winfield (Pantera, Damageplan)
“My friend, my mentor and inspiration Andy Johns passed away today. A true legend in the record biz. I’ll miss you old friend.” - Stacy Blades (L.A. Guns)Andy Johns was an astonishing talent who leaves behind an astounding legacy. His recent works included records by Godsmack, Chickenfoot and Steve Miller. Rock in peace Mr. Johns, you will be missed!
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