Roy Thomas Baker, the producer who was behind the board on some of rock’s most iconic recordings, has died. He was 78. A cause of death has not be determined.
Baker died at his home in Lake Havasu City, Ariz. on April 12, but his family just announced his death on Tuesday, April 22.
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Among Baker’s crowning achievements was his production of Queen’s 1975 classic rock-opera “Bohemian Rhapsody,” which continues to be popular today, holding the title of the most-streamed song recorded in the 20th century and the top British single of all time, according to The Guinness Book of World Records.
“I think he brought a certain amount of discipline and a lot of cynicism and a passion for fattening desserts,” Queen drummer Roger Taylor said in a statement. “He liked his food, Roy. He was very disciplined and very strict in the beginning . . . he would always get it right. The take had to be right.”
Born in Hampstead, London, Baker began his career working as an engineer on recordings by David Bowie, the Who, the Rolling Stones and others, before eventually moving into the producer’s chair when he helped an unknown band called Queen become international superstars, producing five of their albums, including such landmark records as A Night at the Opera and Jazz.
Following his successful run with Queen, Baker went on to produce four albums by another hugely successful rock band—The Cars, as well as hit albums by Journey, Foreigner, Alice Cooper and others.
He also worked as a senior VP of A&R for Elektra Records, where he signed such acts as Metallica, Simply Red, 10,000 Maniacs and others.
Baker is survived by his wife Tere Livrano Baker and brother Alan Baker.
