Drummer and Former Queen Manager Dies Aged 75
Norman Sheffield, the original manager of Queen and once performed with Cliff Richard at the London Palladium has passed away at the age of 75.
Norman Sheffield, who lived most of his life in the Broxbourne and Hoddesdon area, was playing drums with The Hunters when he appeared at the Palladium in 1958.
However, he began his incredible career as a band manager in a music shop in Waltham Cross, which he bought with his wife.
He started a recording studio upstairs and managed a number of bands from the surrounding area.
In 1968, he and his younger brother Barry founded Trident studios in Soho, where some of the world’s best-known singles were recorded.
“He did a lot of stuff with Bowie and Elton John in the 70s,” said his son, Darren.
The Beatles recorded Hey Jude at the studio, while other artists to grace Trident included Black Sabbath, The Bee Gees, Mary Hopkins and Genesis.
The brothers also had TV connections, and filmed Queen’s Bohemian Rhapsody.
“He was the first manager of Queen. They were with him to the end of Night at the Opera,” added Darren.
Norman was a fan of technology, and founded one of the first Apple computer dealerships in the UK.
“One of the reasons the bands wanted to go there, was because it was on the leading edge and had such a good atmosphere there,” reflected Darren.
Music played a hugely important part in Norman’s life.
“Music is a big part of the family,” said Darren, recalling how Norman and his friends taught him the drums.
“He enjoyed the fact that my son, Sebastian, plays drums too.
“When [Norman’s son] Justin got married a few years ago, all three generations [Norman, Darren and Sebastian] played at the event.”
Darren says Norman did not let fame go to his head.
“I don’t recall him being a Flash Harry,” he said.
“He was great. Loved his music.
“He played drums right up until the last six months.”
Norman retired to Cornwall eight years ago, and would still play at his daughter’s restaurant, Amelie’s.
He died on Friday June 20, following a battle with cancer. He leaves behind his wife, Chris, 76, his four children and seven grandchildren.