Phil Spector
Phil Spector, a record producer known for developing the 'wall of sound' and for hits such as 'Be My Baby,' was 81 and held at the California Health Care Facility in Stockton, a prison for people with medical and mental health needs. He died at an outside hospital on January 16, 2021, after a hospitalization for COVID-19 that a source familiar with his medical condition described, though TMZ's reported COVID-19 complications were not confirmed by prison officials. The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation said he died of natural causes and that the San Joaquin County medical examiner would determine the official cause of death. His former wife, Ronnie Spector, said it was 'a sad day for music and a sad day for me.'
Cause of death, as reported: Died of illness. Prison officials said he died of natural causes, with COVID-19 reported by a source familiar with his medical condition and by TMZ, while the San Joaquin County medical examiner was to determine the official cause.
Reported by: California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (the agency that held him); a source familiar with his medical condition; TMZ (reporters).
News reports (4)
- Inmate Phillip Spector Dies of Natural Causes - News Releases - California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation
- Phil Spector, record producer and convicted killer dead at 81
- Phil Spector, Legendary Producer And Killer, Dead At 81
- Phil Spector, Music Producer and Convicted Murderer, Dead at 81