Influential music producer Roy Thomas Baker, who contributed to five Queen albums including Bohemian Rhapsody, has died aged 78.
Baker also worked with artists including Guns N’ Roses, Alice Cooper, Dusty Springfield and Ozzy Osbourne in his four-decade-long career.
The British music star’s death was confirmed in outlets including Ultimate Classic Rock. The cause of death has not been announced.
His publicist said he died at his home in Lake Havasu City, Arizona, on April 12, and the news had ‘just been revealed by his family.’
Alongside Bohemian Rhapsody, Baker also produced Queen albums Queen, Queen II, Sheer Heart Attack, A Night At The Opera and Jazz.
His co-production credits on Queen songs include hits Killer Queen and Don’t Stop Me Now.
On Instagram, Queen star Sir Brian May paid a lengthy tribute to Baker, writing that he was ‘very sad’ to learn about his death.
He said: ‘Roy played a huge part in the production of so much Queen music in the early days.’
Sir Brian added:’ Roy was a part of our production team from the very beginning up to and including the album A Night at the Opera. We then parted company for A Day at the Races, but reunited for the Jazz album. Roy’s production contribution along with Mike Stone’s engineering for Bohemian Rhapsody will never be forgotten.
‘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.’
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After completing his last Queen album Jazz, which was released in 1978, Baker went on to work for rock bands such as Journey and Foreigner.
In the 80s, he also produced albums for Motley Crue, Slade and The Stranglers.
More recently, Baker contributed to The Darkness’ hit album One Way Ticket to Hell… And Back and The Smashing Pumpkins’ American Gothic.
On Sir Brian’s Instagram, social media users remembered Baker’s contribution to music, including Worleygigdotcom, who wrote: ‘He was truly one of a kind.’
Echoing their sentiment, Davalliana.3D commented: ‘Very sad. 😔 We owe him a lot, that’s for sure! Thanks for sharing your memories.’
Queenfanne shared: ‘Wonderful stereos with lovely memories. Thank you for sharing. Sorry for the loss.’
Dakotadawnstereos also added: ‘So sorry to hear this, Brian. He contributed much to the success of Queen and other musicians. RIP Roy.’
Born in Hampstead, London, Baker began his career at Decca Records at the age of 14. He later signed a multi-album production deal with CBS Music and was senior vice president of A&R for Elektra Records.
He is survived by family including his wife, Tere Livrano Baker, and his brother, Alan Baker.
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