NORTH FERRIBY, U.K. — Noted Monitor engineer Ian Newton passed away suddenly December 18, 2014 of an apparent heart attack. He was 53. Considered by many to be one of the leading practitioners of the art of monitor mixing in the industry, Newton was also well-known for his calm, friendly nature that would put artists at ease. He was on the first-call list for a long list of top artists, including Roger Waters, Barbra Streisand, Sting & The Police, Madonna, Oasis, P!nk, Mariah Carey, Kate Bush and many others.
In a statement on her web site, Bush echoed the sentiments of many in the industry. “We are all so shocked by the news and send our deepest sympathies to his family. He was a complete sweetheart, a gentle man and an incredibly important part of the sound team.” For her critically acclaimed 2014 comeback tour, Bush specifically mentioned how Newton’s efforts to help her become accustomed to using in-ear monitors for her first live shows in 35 years. “It was Ian who encouraged me to use the in-ears system and oversaw the whole process using his huge experience in live work,” Bush adds. “Many people commented on the high quality of the sound and sound system at the venue [Hammersmith Apollo] and a great deal of this was because of Ian.”
A funeral is set for Friday, January 2, 2015 at 1pm at the North Ferriby Village Hall (Ferriby, U.K.) and all who knew him are welcome.
Charity donations can be made to the British Heart Foundation in Newton’s name at www.bhf.org.uk.
