One of rock music's most prolific producers / engineers has passed away at the age of 61. Andy Johns, who had worked on albums from Led Zeppelin, the Rolling Stones, Jimi Hendrix, Van Halen, Godsmack and many more, was hospitalized last week with reported liver issues. Sadly, Johns died in the hospital shortly after admittance.

The news of Johns' death was confirmed by former L.A. Guns guitarist Stacey Blades, who was working on a yet-untitled project with the famed producer. Blades reports to Rolling Stone that Johns was suffering from "liver trouble," which was one reason why the producer was brought to the hospital.

Andy Johns' musical credits include engineering several Led Zeppelin and Rolling Stones albums, as well as producing or engineering a number of Van Halen releases. Johns also produced the Godsmack album 'IV,' while mixing the band's compilations 'Changes' and 'Good Times, Bad Times: 10 Years of Godsmack.'

We'd like to extend our best wishes to the family and friends of Andy Johns. Rest in Peace.