Remembering Gary Loizzo: The Man Behind the Sound of Styx
via Todd Sucherman / YouTube
Gary Loizzo left an indelible mark on the music industry, both as a performer and as the man behind the mixing board for one of rock’s most enduring bands, Styx. His contributions as a producer, engineer, and live sound expert continue to resonate with fans and musicians alike. Sadly, Loizzo passed away on January 16, 2016, at the age of 70, leaving behind a legacy of music that has stood the test of time.
In the late 1960s, Loizzo first made his mark as the lead singer of The American Breed. The band’s biggest hit, “Bend Me, Shape Me,” reached #5 on the charts in 1968 and remains a classic of the era. Loizzo’s powerful and dynamic voice was a driving force behind the song’s success, and it became a staple of AM radio during the time. However, the group disbanded just a year later, leaving Loizzo to seek new opportunities in the music world.
From Studio Visionary to Styx Collaborator
Rather than fading away, Loizzo shifted his focus to studio work, founding Pumpkin Studios. Located in the Chicago area, the studio quickly gained a reputation for its high-quality recordings. Loizzo’s technical expertise and keen ear for detail made him a sought-after producer and engineer. Among his most notable collaborations was his work with Styx, a partnership that began in the 1970s and lasted for decades.
Loizzo became instrumental in crafting the polished and layered sound that defined Styx’s biggest albums. He worked on iconic records like The Grand Illusion and Paradise Theatre, helping to shape hits such as “Come Sail Away” and “The Best of Times.” His ability to blend rock energy with studio precision elevated Styx’s recordings, earning the band both critical acclaim and commercial success.
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Styx’s Live Sound Engineer and Beyond
Beyond the studio, Loizzo took on the role of Styx’s front-of-house live engineer, a position he held for years. Fans attending Styx concerts often saw him at the mixing board, ensuring the band’s sound was flawless from the first note to the last. His dedication to delivering an exceptional live experience made him an integral part of the Styx family, both on and off the stage.
Loizzo’s contributions extended beyond Styx, as he also worked with other notable artists and projects throughout his career. His commitment to excellence and his passion for music earned him the respect of his peers and a special place in the hearts of fans. When he passed away in 2016 after battling pancreatic cancer, the loss was deeply felt across the music community.
