Steve Albini, Iconic Punk Rock Producer, Has Died
Steve Albini, the record producer and engineer known for his work with Nirvana and Pixies, has died of a heart attack. He was 61 years old. A staff member at his recording studio, Electrical Audio in Chicago, confirmed the news to Pitchfork. Rolling Stone reports Albini died on Tuesday, May 7th.
Albini fronted underground rock bands Shellac and Big Black but was known for his work in the studio. Preferring the term “engineer” instead of “producer,” Albini worked on classic albums, like Nirvana’s In Utero, Pixies’ Surfer Rosa, PJ Harvey’s Rid of Me, and The Breeders’ POD.
Albini never shied away from speaking out and criticizing the explorative practices of the music industry. He famously refused to take royalties from those he worked with and asked not to be listed in album credits.
He recorded two albums with Big Black, including landmark album Songs About Fucking. When the band came to an end in 1987, Albini formed Shellac in the early 1990s with Bob Weston and Todd Trainer. The band would release five albums, with their sixth set for release on May 17th.
Albini is survived by his wife, film director Heather Whinna.
Our thoughts go out to Albini’s friends and family during this difficult time.
