Tribute to Terry Manning, Influential Music Producer

Vintage music studio with instruments and photographs

News Summary

Terry Manning, a legendary music producer known for his pivotal role in the Memphis soul scene, has passed away at the age of 77. Renowned for his work with Stax Records, Manning produced iconic tracks for artists such as Isaac Hayes and Otis Redding. His career also included contributions to Big Star’s debut album and a revival of Compass Point Studios. Manning’s legacy in music and as a photographer of notable figures, alongside plans for a charity in his honor, underscore his impact on the industry.

El Paso, Texas — Terry Manning, a prominent music producer and recording engineer known for his influential work in the Memphis soul genre, passed away on March 25 due to a heart aneurysm. He was 77 years old. Manning’s extensive career spanned several decades, during which he produced numerous hits for legendary artists and became an integral part of the music landscape in Memphis.

Manning was particularly affiliated with Stax Records, a renowned record label famous for its roster of soul artists. Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, he produced memorable tracks for iconic figures such as Isaac Hayes, Otis Redding, Booker T. & The MG’s, Al Green, and Sam & Dave. His production techniques often blended the Memphis soul sound with elements of rock and pop, fostering significant collaborations between white and Black musicians.

Among his notable achievements, Manning served on the production team for The Staple Singers, where he worked on classic songs such as “Respect Yourself” and “I’ll Take You There.” His efforts were instrumental in shaping the sound of the era and establishing Stax Records as a formidable force in the music industry, rivaling the success of Motown.

After his tenure with Stax, Manning transitioned to Ardent Studios in Memphis, where he contributed to the recording of Big Star’s seminal 1972 debut album, #1 Record. In addition to his production work, he provided keyboards and backing vocals for the album, further showcasing his multifaceted musical talent.

Manning’s impressive discography includes collaborations with renowned acts such as Led Zeppelin (most notably on their album Led Zeppelin III), ZZ Top (including hit singles like “Sharp Dressed Man” and “Legs”), as well as George Thorogood and Joe Cocker. In the 1980s, he relocated to London, where he spent valuable time working at the iconic Abbey Road Studios.

In 1992, Manning was instrumental in revitalizing Compass Point Studios in Nassau, Bahamas, after being enlisted by Island Records founder Chris Blackwell. During his time there, he contributed to successful projects for artists including Shania Twain, Shakira, and Lenny Kravitz. Additionally, Manning founded a boutique audio company named Lucas Engineering, dedicated to manufacturing high-end microphones and other professional audio products.

Apart from his production career, Manning was also an accomplished photographer. He captured candid moments of notable musicians and personalities, including Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Chuck Berry, Jimi Hendrix, and Dusty Springfield during his time at Stax.

Originally from El Paso, Texas, Manning began his musical journey playing guitar and performing with local musicians, including his close friend Bobby Fuller. His talent and passion for music quickly led him to the vibrant scene at Stax Records, allowing him to play a crucial role in the development of iconic tracks and collaborations.

In 1970, he released a solo album titled Home Sweet Home through Stax’s Enterprise label, which is considered a collector’s item today. Additionally, Manning served as the music supervisor for the WattStax concert film, which has been preserved in the Library of Congress for its cultural significance.

Survived by his widow, Janet Manning, the family plans to launch a charity for male health awareness in his honor. A private funeral service is scheduled for April 3 in El Paso, with a livestream of the service to be provided for those unable to attend.