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Remembering Calvin Hayes: Johnny Hates Jazz Co-Founder Passes Away

todayJuly 12, 2026 3

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Featured image: Johnny Hates Jazz 2014 by Andrew Hurley, BY-SA 2.0 via Openverse.

In a heartbreaking loss for the music community, Calvin Hayes, the co-founder of the iconic ’80s band Johnny Hates Jazz, has passed away at the age of 63. The talented keyboardist and drummer collapsed in his home in Washington earlier this week, leaving fans and friends in shock.

Hayes was a pivotal figure in the band, which he formed in 1986 alongside Clark Datchler and Mike Nocito. Their breakout hit, “Shattered Dreams,” and the album Turn Back The Clock topped charts and resonated with a generation. Even after leaving the band in 2010, Hayes remained proud of the enduring legacy of their music.

In a heartfelt statement shared on social media, Datchler and Nocito expressed their sorrow, stating, “We are utterly shocked and deeply saddened. Calvin was not just a bandmate but a brother in arms during an extraordinary moment in time.” The trio’s camaraderie and musical contributions will be remembered fondly by fans around the world.


Source: www.stereogum.com

Read the original article here.

Written by: iRockNashville News

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