Remembering Terry Manning: A Pioneer of Memphis Music
Terry Manning, an esteemed music producer and recording engineer, passed away at the age of 77 due to an accidental fall at his home. His wife confirmed the news of his demise on March 25, as reported by Relix.
Influence at Stax Records
Manning’s legacy is intricately intertwined with the iconic Stax Records in Memphis, where he significantly contributed to the evolution of pop and R&B. He was instrumental in producing timeless hits for legendary artists, including Isaac Hayes, Otis Redding, Booker T. & The MG’s, Al Green, and Sam & Dave. His collaboration with The Staple Singers on classics such as “Respect Yourself”and “I’ll Take You There”showcased his distinctive ability to blend the soulful sounds of Memphis with elements of rock and pop, paving the way for early interracial musical collaborations.
Expanding Horizons at Ardent Studios
After his tenure at Stax, Manning’s journey continued at Ardent Studios, where he played a crucial role in the creation of Big Star’s landmark album, #1 Record. Not only did he contribute as a producer, but he also showcased his talents on keyboards and backing vocals, forming a lasting friendship with lead singer Alex Chilton. Manning’s impressive resume later included work on critically acclaimed albums by Led Zeppelin, ZZ Top, and Joe Cocker, among others.
International Ventures and Legacy
In the 1980s, Manning relocated to London to work at the renowned Abbey Road Studios before being recruited by Island Records founder Chris Blackwell in 1992. He revitalized Compass Point Studios in Nassau, Bahamas, where he collaborated with stars like Shania Twain, Shakira, and Lenny Kravitz, shaping their significant projects.
Creativity Beyond Music
In addition to his remarkable contributions to music, Manning established Lucas Engineering, a boutique audio company specializing in high-end microphones and professional audio products. His passion for photography blossomed during his time at Stax, where he captured powerful images of iconic figures such as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Chuck Berry, and Jimi Hendrix, providing snapshots of a transformative era in American culture.
From El Paso to Musical Stardom
Born in El Paso, Texas, Manning began his musical journey playing guitar and performing with local artists, including his close friend Bobby Fuller. His move to Memphis marked the start of a prolific career at Stax, a label that established itself as a powerhouse in the music industry following its partnership with Atlantic Records in the mid-1960s. As Stax produced chart-topping hits and groundbreaking albums, Manning’s contributions helped to solidify the label’s reputation as the “Motown of the South.”
WattStax and Later Works
Manning served as the music supervisor for WattStax, the celebrated 1972 concert that paid tribute to the music and culture of the time, often referred to as the “Black Woodstock.”The concert’s legacy has been preserved in the Library of Congress, honoring its impact on the cultural landscape.
In 1970, Manning also ventured into solo music with his album Home Sweet Home, recorded at Ardent Studios and released under Stax’s Enterprise label, now a prized collector’s item. His musical journey continued sporadically over the decades, including a tribute album to Bobby Fuller, released in 2013, titled West Texas Skyline.
Terry Manning’s remarkable journey through the realms of music and photography leaves an indelible mark on the cultural fabric of America. His innovative spirit and dedication to his craft will continue to inspire generations.