Shel Talmy, who produced early music for British bands The Who and The Kinks, has died at the age of 87. The US record producer “died peacefully in his sleep” at his home in Los Angeles on Wednesday “from complications due to a stroke”, his colleague Alec Palao confirmed to the PA news agency. During his career, Talmy produced hits including My Generation by The Who and You Really Got Me by The Kinks, as well as working with British superstar David Bowie.
“I’m also delighted that I am told I have a legacy that will last even longer. “I look forward to meeting some of you in the future who are reading this, but LOL, don’t hurry to get here, I’m not going anywhere.” Born in Chicago in 1937, Talmy sought a holiday job in the UK during a summer visit in 1962 which saw him secure a position at Decca Records – having claimed to have worked with The Beach Boys.
After striking out on his own in 1964, The Kinks were among his first signings, which saw him produce the band’s catalogue until 1967, including Tired Of Waiting For You, Sunny Afternoon and Waterloo Sunset. He returned to the US in 1979 and remained active in the industry until his death. A statement to his fans prepared ahead of his death said: “Hi to all, and many thanks to all of you who have been reading my rock stories for all this time, it has been greatly appreciated.
“Please note, that if you’re reading this now, this is my final vignette, as I am no longer residing on this plane of exis.