Grammy-winning music producer and engineer David Rivkin, popularly known as David Z, has died at the age of 78.
According to reports, the veteran producer passed away on August 2 at a hospital in Burbank, California, after suffering complications from an infection.
David Z was a pioneering figure behind the iconic Minneapolis Sound and played a significant role in launching Prince’s career, producing his early demo recordings and engineering several of his first albums.
Throughout his distinguished career, he collaborated with a host of renowned artists, including Etta James, Buddy Guy, Al Green, Jody Watley and Jonny Lang. He also worked on Lipps Inc.’s Billboard Hot 100 chart-topper Funkytown and co-produced Fine Young Cannibals’ hit She Drives Me Crazy, another No. 1 single.
In recognition of his outstanding work, David Z won a Grammy Award in 2005 for producing Etta James’ acclaimed album Blues to the Bone.
Paying tribute to his late brother, Bobby Z, Prince’s longtime drummer in The Revolution, described David Z as a fearless producer and a true musical rebel whose legacy and influence will continue to inspire generations of artists.
