Roy Thomas Baker, the influential producer behind Queen’s iconic “Bohemian Rhapsody” and key albums by The Cars, Foreigner, and others, has died at 78. The cause of death was not disclosed.
Baker’s production work on Queen’s 1975 album A Night at the Opera, which featured “Bohemian Rhapsody,” helped cement his legacy. The song is now the most streamed track recorded in the 20th century and holds the title of the top British single of all time, according to the Guinness Book of Records. Queen’s drummer Roger Taylor described Baker as disciplined and passionate, noting his perfectionism in ensuring each take was flawless.
Born in Hampstead, London, Baker started his career at Decca Studios, working under top producers like Gus Dudgeon (Elton John) and Tony Visconti (David Bowie, T. Rex). His early work included collaborations with artists such as The Rolling Stones, The Who, Dusty Springfield, and Yes. By 1971, he became chief engineer and contributed to hits like Free’s “All Right Now” and T. Rex’s “Bang A Gong (Get It On).”
Baker’s relationship with Queen began in earnest with their 1974 album Sheer Heart Attack and culminated in the groundbreaking A Night at the Opera. His complex, layered production style helped define Queen’s sound. After A Day at the Races in 1976, Queen began producing their own albums, but by then, Baker had already moved on to work with The Cars, producing their hit self-titled debut and follow-up albums.
Baker also worked with bands like Journey, Ian Hunter, and Ronnie Wood, and played a key role in signing Metallica, Simply Red, and Mötley Crüe to Elektra. His production credits extended to a wide range of artists, including Alice Cooper, Cheap Trick, Ozzy Osbourne, and Guns N’ Roses.
Baker is survived by his wife, Tere Livrano Baker, and his brother, Alan Baker.
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