Guy Babylon's Sudden Passing Leaves a Void in the Music Industry

The music world is mourning a great talent after the sudden passing of keyboards player and arranger Guy Babylon on September 2nd, 2009. Babylon was only 52 years of age, and is suspected to have suffered a heart attack.

Guy Babylon, who was born in New Windsor, Maryland, was a long standing member of Sir Elton John's band, and worked with the singer on many musical projects, including film and theatrical ventures, since the 1980's. In learning of the passing, Sir Elton John described Babylon as, "one of the most brilliant musicians I ever knew."

Babylon graduated with a degree in music composition from the University of Florida, where he attended on an athletic scholarship. Foregoing the family business of manufacturing septic tanks and concrete burial vaults, for the allure of a musical future, Babylon relocated to Los Angeles in 1980.

Following gigs as a studio session musician, Babylon worked from his home studio in Hollywood diving into commercial composition, creating soundtracks and jingles for radio and TV.

Having played with bands such as Ashton, and collaborated with artists Siedah Garrett, Davey Johnstone, and others, Babylon found himself on his first world tour after becoming a member of the Elton John Band in 1988.

In 1992, Babylon became lead keyboardist for John and was instrumental in further developing such classics as Bennie and the Jets and Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me. Since 1989, Babylon has appeared on many of John's recordings, including the Lion King, Made in England, and Peachtree Road.

John's transition to the musical theatre stage proved another venue for Babylon to excel in. Babylon won a Grammy in 2001 for his musical arrangements in the musical Aida, and was musical supervisor and orchestrator for the 2006 Broadway production of Lestat.

Babylon also lent his talents to Billy Elliot the Musical which went on to win the 2008 Tony Award for Best Musical.

Guy Babylon is survived by his wife Kathy and their three children.