Steve Albini, Chicago music producer, dies 61

Legendary rock musician and audio engineer Steve Albini dies at 61. Known for recording Nirvana, Pixies, and critiquing the music industry.

Steve Albini, a renowned rock musician and esteemed audio engineer, passed away at the age of 61 at his home in Chicago. He played a significant role in shaping the sound of alternative rock music in the 1980s, '90s, and beyond. Albini recorded acclaimed albums for iconic bands such as Nirvana, PJ Harvey, and Pixies, among many others. He was known for his sharp vision when it came to recording bands and his candid critiques of the music industry.

Albini founded Electrical Audio, a studio in Chicago, in 1997, where he continued to produce groundbreaking music. He was a vocal critic of the exploitative practices of major record labels and wrote a widely-quoted article titled "The Problem With Music," highlighting the pitfalls that many bands face when signing major deals. Despite his criticisms, Albini did not shy away from working with major-label bands in the 1990s, although he often mocked them afterward.

In addition to his work as an audio engineer, Albini was a talented musician who led bands like Big Black in the 1980s and Shellac since 1992. These bands were known for their loud guitars, intense vocals, and DIY ethos. While they may not have achieved widespread commercial success, they left a lasting impact on the music industry. Albini's legacy as a trailblazer in alternative rock music and a staunch advocate for artistic integrity will continue to inspire musicians for years to come.