Music producer Gary Stevenson passed away unexpectedly just days after collaborating with Go West frontman Peter Cox on plans for an upcoming spoken word tour.
Peter Cox Shares Heartfelt Tribute
On Thursday, April 2, Peter Cox announced the death of his longtime friend and collaborator on Instagram. He posted a photo with his arm around Stevenson, writing: “Yesterday we lost this guy – Gary Stevenson, my dear friend and musical collaborator of over 40 years.”
Cox described their final day together on Monday, March 30, when they rehearsed tour content and shared laughs. “Tuesday (March 31), he was gone. I can’t believe it. Thanks for everything, mate. I will miss you,” Cox added.
Fans Offer Condolences
Supporters quickly filled the comments with messages of sympathy. One wrote, “Really sorry to hear that, Pete, sending love.” Another said, “Sending condolences, Peter. Very sad to hear.” Others ed shock and love for Stevenson’s family.
Stevenson’s Illustrious Career
Gary Stevenson began playing guitar at age 13 and joined bands by 16 after discovering a sound-on-sound tape recorder. He soon produced music in his bedroom setup.
In 1979, he worked as a guitar demonstrator at ABC Music in Addlestone, Surrey, connecting with established artists. Stevenson later established an 8-track studio in West London, recording with his band Radar and others.
Radar signed with Atlantic Records in 1983, launching Stevenson’s production success. That year, he produced the duo Go West, which gained massive popularity. The group signed with Chrysalis Records, and Stevenson continued producing them, boosting his band’s visibility. Go West won the Best Newcomers award in 1985.
Stevenson relocated to the Isle of Man in 1986, founding the Old Schoolhouse recording studio and working with top artists. He returned to the UK in 1993, settling in Aynho, Oxfordshire, to build Stevensonics studio.
Throughout his career, Stevenson produced albums and soundtracks for artists including Rick Astley, ABC, Go West, Tony Hadley, Bros, and Jane McDonald.
