Some of the most dynamic and influential music in mid-60s British pop was brought to fruition by the US producer Shel Talmy, who has died aged 87. Among the hits that benefited from his innovative and dynamic approach to the recording studio were the Kinks’ chart-topping songs You Really Got Me, Sunny Afternoon and Tired of Waiting For You. There is some dispute over whether Talmy also produced the classic Waterloo Sunset – its composer, Ray Davies, says he produced it himself, while Talmy begged to differ.
In any event, Talmy’s work impressed the Who, with whom he recorded their definitive hits I Can’t Explain, Anyway, Anyhow, Anywhere and My Generation. His partnership with the group ended in a tortuous legal struggle, but his work with them has comfortably stood the test of time.
