Jon Zazula, the co-founder of Megaforce Records, which was behind Metallica’s first successes, died at the age of 69. The company has also signed contracts with, among others the groups Anthrax, Testament, Overkill, and Ministry. His wife Marsha Zazula had died almost exactly a year earlier.
Jon “Johnny Z” Zazula died in Florida, and he was watched by, among others brothers, daughters, grandchildren, and friends. The family said the death of the legendary producer and co-founder of Megaforce Records was due to complications from a rare neuropathic disorder, chronic inflammatory polyneuropathy, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and osteopenia.
Let us recall that on January 10, 2021, his wife, Marsha Zazula, died at the age of 68.
Jon’s wife Marsha, with whom he founded Megaforce, passed away from cancer on January 10th of last year.
“The world today lost its true legend … Our dad lived a life as fast, hard, powerful, and full of impact as was the music he introduced to the world. His passion fueled the careers of the most influential metal groups. For us, he was just a dad … “- wrote on social media Rikki Zazula, daughter of Jon and Marsha (the producer had three daughters, including two from his marriage with Marsha since 1979).
“Although we are saddened by his departure, in the end [with Marsha] are together. It’s impossible to imagine a world without him,” added Rikki.
At the moment the cause of his death has not been disclosed.
Who was Jon Zazula?
In 1982 in New York, Marsha and Jon Zazula founded the independent label Megaforce Records. Producer Jonny’s Z Rock’n’Roll Heaven store in New Jersey has made him one of the most famous metal music fans on the East Coast of the United States.
In the early 1980s, Zazula dealt with the exchange of demo tapes from, among others, Brian Slagel (Metal Blade Records), Ron Quintana (publisher of the magazine “Metal Mania” ), and producer Mark Whitaker .
It was Jon and his second wife Marsha who stood behind the promotion of the Metallica group – after listening to the demo “No Life ‘Til Leather”, he decided to start Megaforce. Her debut album “Kill ‘Em All” (1983) was released. Zazula has also organized Metallica’s East US tour with his own money.
Amelia Warner
Amelia Warner writes all the Latest Articles. She mostly covers Entertainment topics, but at times loves to write about movie reviews as well.
