One of the most celebrated studio engineers in rock'n'roll, Andy Johns, has passed away according to reports from Noise 11. The news was confirmed in a press release issued by the Allied Artists Music Group at 3pm AEST today. He passed away in a Los Angeles hospital, funeral arrangemments and a public memorial are being organised now.
As an engineer Johns worked on some of modern music's most iconic rock albums; his skills was utilised on The Rolling Stones' Exile On Main Street, Sticky Fingers and It's Only Rock 'n Roll as well as a number of Led Zeppelin records, including II, III and IV.
He was also a highly regarded producer, making a name for himself in the hard rock scene with production for the likes of Free and Humble Pie in his early years and Van Halen, Joe Satriani and L.A. Guns later on in his career.
Perhaps the most highly regarded piece of work from his production career, however, is Television's classic 1977 album Marquee Moon, which he produced with the help off band leader Tom Verlaine. The record became, and continues to be, one of the most influential records on modern indie rock.
Tributes have flooded in since reports of his passing surfaced, Queen guitarist Brian May taking to his website to pay tribute Johns.
"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"
Van Halen and Chickenfoot bassist Michael Anthony also took to his website to express his sadness at the news and offer his condolences.
"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
Legendary guitarist Slash tweeted his tribute to Johns.
RIP Andy Johns. 1 of the great engineer/producers of our time; Free, Zeppelin, Rolling Stones, the list goes on. He will be sorely missed.
— Slash (@Slash) April 8, 2013
Johns is survived by his wife Anet, brother Glyn and sons Evan, Jesse and Will Johns and two grandchildren.
We'll have more details as they come to hand.
