Johnny Zazula, a record producer and founder of the label Megaforce Records, has passed away, and people are curious to know the cause of his death.
Jonathan Zazula, also known as Jonny Z, was an American music industry executive and the proprietor of New Jersey’s Rock And Roll Heaven record store.
Zazula’s record store in East Brunswick, New Jersey, made him a central figure in the East Coast metal scene, as he routinely played demo tapes sent to him through his underground tape-trading network.
The network included Metal Blade Records’ Brian Slagel, Metal Mania magazine’s Ron Quintana, and producer Mark Whitaker. Eddie Trunk looked up to him as a mentor.
Johnny Zazula Cause Of Death & Obituary: How Did He Die?
Johnny Zazula has died as his family members confirmed his death via social media, although they have not disclosed the cause of his death.
Jon Zazula, who co-founded Megaforce Records with his wife in 1982 and published the first albums by Metallica, Anthrax, and a slew of other bands, died on Tuesday, according to a spokeswoman for the label.
He died in Florida at the age of 69, surrounded by his brother, children, granddaughters, and friends.
Zazula, often known as “Jonny Z,” was the company’s more freewheeling half, noted for his raucous laughter and, on occasion, his fury.
Metallica, Anthrax, Testament, former Kiss guitarist Ace Frehley, Ministry, King’s X, Overkill, and Raven were among the most well-known groups associated with the label.
Johnny Zazula Wife: Marsha Zazula Battle With Cancer
Marsha Zazula, the second wife of Johnny Zazula, died on January 10, 2021, after her battle with cancer. She was 68 years of age when she passed away.
The couple tied the knot in the year 1979 and co-founded Megaforce Records. Johnny and Marsha were indispensable in launching the legendary band Metallica.
Zazula was the father of three daughters, one with his first wife and two with Marsha. His daughter, Rikki Zazula, confirmed the death of Johnny in a heartbreaking post on Facebook.
She explained how her father was a source of inspiration in her life and admired her parent’s passion for rock music.
What Happened To Johnny Zazula?
Johnny Zazula, the legendary rock music producer, has passed away at his home in Florida.
Many rock musicians like Charlie Benante, Brian Slagel, Dirk Verbeuren, Geezer Butler, and Alex Skolnick, among many others, have paid their tribute and respect to the late talented music identity via social media platforms.
The Zazulas were a staple in the emerging East Coast metal scene in the 1980s, running a New Wave and metal record store in East Brunswick, New Jersey, and producing gigs in the area.
Johnny and Marsha formed the company after listening to Metallica’s demo collection “No Life ‘Til Leather.” Megaforce is still in business today, but the Zazulas had left the label several years ago.
Johnny Zazula released his memoir, “Heavy Tales: The Metal, The Music, The Madness” in 2019.