Remembering the controversial record producer Joe Meek
In 1960, Meek established his own production company, RGM Sound, operating from a home studio above a shop, where he recorded and produced several artists and songs including the 1962 instrumental hit “Telstar” by The Tornados. This track became the first by a British group to reach number one on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 and showcased Meek’s pioneering use of electronic sounds and recording techniques. He also famously rejected producing The Beatles upon hearing a demo from the band prior to their success. Later in his life, Meek’s mental health problems resulted in a murder and suicide, which stained his career and achievements
Remembering the controversial record producer Joe Meek
Robert George “Joe” Meek was born on April 5, 1929, in Newent, Gloucestershire, England. From a young age, he exhibited a keen interest in electronics and music, which led him to experiment with sound recording techniques. After serving as a radar technician in the Royal Air Force, Meek worked as an audio engineer, where he began to develop innovative recording methods.
In 1960, Meek established his own production company, RGM Sound, operating from a home studio above a shop at 304 Holloway Road in London. It was here that he crafted his most notable work, including the 1962 instrumental hit “Telstar” by The Tornados. This track became the first by a British group to reach number one on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 and showcased Meek’s pioneering use of electronic sounds and recording techniques.
Throughout his career, Meek was known for his experimental approach to music production, utilizing effects like reverb and echo to create distinctive sounds. He worked with various artists, including John Leyton, The Honeycombs, and Screaming Lord Sutch, producing numerous tracks that left a lasting impact on the music industry.
Despite his professional successes, Meek faced personal challenges, including financial difficulties and mental health issues. Tragically, on February 3, 1967, at the age of 37, he took his own life after fatally shooting his landlady, Violet Shenton, in his London studio. Joe Meek’s innovative spirit and contributions to music production continue to influence artists and producers to this day. In 2008 the biopic about his life career, “Telstar: The Joe Meek Story” was released.
Watch the BBC documentary “‘The Strange Story of Joe Meek”
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