LANCASTER, PA — Noted live audio engineer David “Skaffy” Skaff — perhaps best known for his decades of work mixing monitors for U2 — passed away this week. He was 63.
In 2005, Skaff won the Parnelli Award for Monitor Mixer of the Year (as well as a TEC Award that same year) for his work on U2’s “Vertigo” tour, in addition to a TEC Award in 2011 for the band’s 360° tour.
However, these were just a few of Skaff’s many accomplishments throughout his distinguished career. He had a long career with working with Clair Global as a senior staff engineer, systems engineer and monitor engineer. Skaff’s first major gig with Clair was with Queen, and the many other artists he worked with over the years included a first string of headliners, such as Alicia Keys, Shania Twain, Steve Miller, Yes, R.E.M., Miley Cyrus, Katy Perry, Motley Crue, Alicia Keys, Tanya Tucker, Carrie Underwood, Bruce Springsteen, Bon Jovi, Robert Plant and Led Zeppelin’s 2007 reunion tour. Skaff also handled FOH duties for Jewel, Ricky Martin and Madonna.
Skaff was also intensively involved in the move toward digital technology and first used the DiGiCo’s D5 on a 2003 Shania Twain tour, and later merged it into his workflow touring with Alicia Keys. He later took a job as a live sound products specialist for Avid/Digidesign during the early days of the company’s VENUE consoles. In 2010, after three years of a “desk” job, he rejoined the Clair Global organization as a chief audio systems engineer.
As if he needed more activities, in 2009 Skaff founded DWS Audio Corp., his own company offering mix, design and consultancy services to stage, studio and broadcast clients.
With his passing, a giant in the industry has left a legacy of exceptional character, integrity, and mastery of his craft. He had many friends and colleagues and will be missed by all.
At press time, no memorial plans had been announced.
