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Donald's Encyclopedia of Popular MusicA B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y ZTHOMAS, Chris(b 13 Jan. '47, Perivale, Middlesex) UK producer who left a mark on his era. Student at Royal Academy of Music; played in semi-pro groups such as Second Thoughts, with Patrick Campbell-Lyons (later Nirvana), Tony Duhig (Jade Warrior), John "Speedy' Keen (Thunderclap Newman). "I'm Finding It Rough', co-written by Thomas and Campbell-Lyons, recorded by the Everly Bros '67. Joined George Martin's AIR London studios as office boy, began prod. with Climax Blues Band (first four LPs), then Procul Harum, whose quasi-classical sound fitted in with Thomas's background: success of their Live With Edmunton Symphony Orchestra '71, which required much studio editing, made his name and he went freelance '72. Helped mix Pink Floyd's Dark Side Of The Moon '73, prod. For Your Pleasure '73 and next four for Roxy Music, as well as Badfinger. Returned to the road with John Cale, playing keyboards; continued prod. Brian Ferry after Roxy split, also co-writing material with him. Prod. tracks on Sex Pistols' Anarchy In The UK '77 incl. first three historic singles, continuing new wave affiliations with Tom Robinson's Power In The Darkness '78. First involved with Beatles at AIR (White Album period); organised Paul McCartney's Wings Over America soundtrack/ album, then his Back To The Egg '79. Met Chryssie Hynde when she sang backup on a Chris Spedding LP; prod. Pretenders '80, his second chart-topping new wave LP, continued with more Pretenders, consolidating with Pete Townshend and Elton John, diversifying into electro-pop with Human League's Hysteria '84, co-prod. with Hugh Padgham. |