John Hampton

John Hampton, the acclaimed engineer and producer known for his work with Stevie Ray Vaughan and the White Stripes has died aged 61 following a battle with cancer.

Hampton’s recording career began in 1977 when he was hired by Ardent Recording Studios in Memphis – a studio he would remain at for nearly four decades, eventually becoming co-owner.

According to the Memphis Commercial Appeal, Hampton was inspired to pursue a position at Ardent by one of rock’s biggest bands. “I was a big Led Zeppelin fan and when Zeppelin’s third record came out, on the back it said ‘Mixed at Ardent Studios – Memphis, Tennessee,’” he explained in a 2007 interview with the paper. “I kind of made up my mind at that point: I want to work at that place.”

He won two Grammys – Best Traditional Blues Album and Best Alternative Music Album – for Jimmie Vaughan’s Do You Get The Blues? and the White Stripes’ Get Behind Me Satan, respectively.

"While best known for his keen technical sensibilities and his ability to successfully work with a diverse group of acts across many different genres, John was also praised for his easygoing demeanour and effortless charm," said Recording Academy president and CEO Neil Portnow. "His prolific career has left a prominent mark on music and our culture, and his remarkable legacy will continue to teach and inspire many generations to come."

Sources: Grammy.com, Ultimate Classic Rock

Photo: jhamptone.com

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