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Blues Pioneer Mike Vernon's Legacy Echoes On
16 Mar
Summary
- He founded Blue Horizon Records, championing British blues musicians.
- Vernon produced debut albums for Eric Clapton and Fleetwood Mac.
- His Chipping Norton studio produced hits for Duran Duran and Radiohead.
Music producer and executive Mike Vernon, who passed away at 81, made significant contributions to the music world. He began his career by founding the fanzine R&B Monthly and later the Blue Horizon Records label, reissuing American R&B singles and supporting emerging British talent.
Vernon produced key recordings for John Mayall, including his 1966 album Blues Breakers featuring Eric Clapton. He went on to produce Fleetwood Mac's eponymous debut album and their chart-topping instrumental "Albatross."
Later, Vernon co-established the Chipping Norton recording studio in 1971. Over nearly three decades, this studio hosted sessions for numerous artists, yielding hits such as Gerry Rafferty's "Baker Street" and recordings by Duran Duran and Radiohead.
Recognized for his extensive work, Vernon received the gold badge of the British Academy of Songwriters, Composers & Authors in 2013 and was appointed MBE in 2022.
