A music legend who worked closely with the band Queen has died.
The music producer was best known for his work alongside the British rock legends, he was the man behind some of their greatest hits.
The 78-year-old produced five of their albums, including 1975’s ‘A Night at the Opera,’ which features the two Grammy nominations and Grammy Hall of Fame track ‘Bohemian Rhapsody.’
The single took to the top of the charts worldwide, even though their record label, EMI, initially refused to release it as a six-minute single because it was deemed too long.
Tributes from fans have since poured in for the music legend, one person writes on social media: “He was a brilliant producer and his name was synonymous with the early Queen albums. His name was always prominently featured on the album’s credits.
“The work Roy did with his band members was phenomenal, and his contribution to what is my – and that of many others’ – favourite all-time song (Bohemian Rhapsody) should never be overlooked nor underestimated.”
Another user says: “Sad to hear this. Legend is overused, but not in this case.”
“The man behind The Night At The Opera… It’s a tremendous loss,” a third says.” That album had a huge impact on me as a musician.”
“RIP Sir, your touch on music was crucial to my childhood. And to this day, your records are a HUGE part of my life. Be at peace knowing your legacy lives on,” a fourth adds.
Roy Thomas Baker began his career at Decca Records in the late 1960s at just 14 years old.
He then became the in-house engineer at Central London studio, Trident, where he first met Queen.
Baker discussed the success of ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ in a 2005 New York Times interview, stating: “I thought it was going to be a hit. We didn’t know it was going to be quite that big. I didn’t realise it was still going to be talked about 30 years later.”
Not only did he work with Queen, but he also produced music for many other influential musicians, including David Bowie, Guns N’ Roses, Mick Jagger, Ozzy Osbourne, The Rolling Stones, Free, Journey, Yes, and the Smashing Pumpkins.
Baker also worked on four albums for The Cars in the 1970s and 80s, and worked on the production of Mötley Crüe’s debut studio album ‘Too Fast for Love.’
The 78-year-old’s death was confirmed by his spokesperson, Bob Merlis, who announced the star had died on April 12 at his home in Lake Havasu City, Arizona.
Queen’s guitarist Brian May has paid tribute to English producer, sharing photos of Baker, he wrote: “Very sad to hear of the passing of Roy Thomas Baker. Roy played a huge part in the production of so much QUEEN music in the early days.”
May went on to add: “I regret slipping out of touch latterly with Roy. I suppose life moves at such a pace these days that we imagine there will be plenty of time to rekindle a friendship, and then suddenly, one day, it’s too late.
“Thank you, Roy, for all the great work you did for us, and all the fun we had. Rest in Peace. Bri.”
Baker’s cause of death has not yet been announced.
