Jimmy Page has paid a heartfelt tribute to the late Steve Albini, honoring the renowned musician and studio engineer for his significant contribution to the Page and Plant album “Walking into Clarksdale.” Albini, who passed away at his Chicago recording studio, Electrical Audio, on May 7 at the age of 61, left an indelible mark on the music industry.
In a touching Instagram post, Page expressed his sorrow, writing, “I was very sad to hear of Steve Albini’s passing this week. Robert and I worked with him in 1997 on our album ‘Walking into Clarksdale’ — a record I’m still really proud of.” He continued, “I had a strong connection with Steve, we all did on that album, and he came with such pedigree and experience as one of the world’s leading mixers and audio engineers.”
Albini was known for his passion for analogue tape and his dedication to his craft. His impressive career included engineering classic albums for Nirvana, PJ Harvey, and the Pixies. “He loved working with analogue tape, in fact his own band was called Shellac,” Page noted. “He was so passionate and knowledgeable, really dedicated to the cause during our recording sessions at RAK and EMI Number Two Studio at Abbey Road.”
Tributes to Albini poured in from across the music world. Polly Jean Harvey, who worked with Albini on her second album “Rid of Me,” remembered him as “a great friend – wise, kind and generous.” She added, “Meeting Steve Albini and working with him changed the course of my life. He taught me so much about music, and life.”
Albini’s passing has been met with an outpouring of grief and respect from peers, fans, and industry figures alike. His legacy as a pioneering engineer and influential musician will continue to resonate for years to come. “He had an impressive CV and leaves a real legacy. RIP, Steve,” Page concluded, echoing the sentiments of many who cherished Albini’s contributions to music.
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