Producer David Z, Key Architect of Minneapolis Sound, Dies at 78

David Z, born David Rivkin, died at age 78 in a Burbank, California hospital from complications of an infection, according to his brother Bobby Z. A Minneapolis‑born musician and producer, he was instrumental in launching Prince’s career, engineering early Prince demos and later working on albums such as *For You* (1978) and the hit single “Kiss” (1986). He also played guitar for Lipps Inc., contributing to the 1980 disco classic “Funkytown,” and produced mainstream hits for Fine Young Cannibals (“She Drives Me Crazy”) and Jody Watley.

Beyond pop, Z became a respected blues producer, earning Grammy awards for his work with artists like Buddy Guy and Etta James. He is widely recognized as one of the architects of the “Minneapolis sound,” noted for pioneering use of drum machines, samples, and loops that shaped 1980s music.