Died On This Date (December 6, 2012) Huw Lloyd-Langton / Hawkwind Guitarist
themusicsover Huw Lloyd-Langton (Born Richard Hugh Lloyd-Langton)
February 6, 1951 – December 6, 2012
Huw Lloyd-Langton was an English guitarist and singer who is perhaps best remembered as a three-time member of space rock pioneers, Hawkwind. The band, which famously included Lemmy Kilmister of Motorhead at one time, was a direct influence on the likes of Al Jourgensen of Ministry, Henry Rollins, Monster Magnet, and the Sex Pistols, who covered their “Silver Machine.” Born outside of London, Lloyd-Langton joined Hawkwind in time to play on their debut self-titled album of 1970. Although the long-player was not a commercial success, it is held in high regard since it was one of the first space rock albums in history. Lloyd-Langton left the band two years after its release due to an illness. Aside from Hawkwind, he played with Leo Sayer, the Bonzo Dog Band, Pretty Things, Widowmaker, and his own Lloyd-Langton Group. He re-joined Hawkwind in 1979, and played on their albums, Live Seventy Nine and Levitation. He left the group again during the late ’80s only to rejoin in 2001 until a bout with Legionnaires Disease forced him to depart for good. In later years, he could be heard opening for the Hawkwind as a solo act. On December 6, 2012, Huw Lloyd-Langton passed away following a 2-year battle with cancer. He was 61.
Thanks to Henk de Bruin for the assist.
What You Should Own
Norman “Hurricane” Smith was a British engineer and producer who worked closely with George Martin and who could count the Beatles, Pink Floyd and the Pretty Things among his successes. He was lead engineer on every song the Beatles ever recorded at EMI Studios. After being promoted to A&R and Producer at EMI, he signed Pink Floyd to the label. And along with his work with both Pink Floyd and the Pretty Things, he reluctantly helped usher in what would become known as psychedelic rock. In the early 1970s, Smith recorded under the name Hurricane Smith and had a couple of hits including “Don’t Let It Die” and “Oh Babe, What Would You Say?.” 
