Sal Maida, the legendary bassist known for his work with Roxy Music, Sparks, and Milk ’N’ Cookies, has passed away at the age of 76. The acclaimed musician died on Saturday in New York due to complications from a fall in December, according to his wife, singer-songwriter Lisa Burns-Maida.
A pivotal figure in the rock and power-pop scenes of the 1970s, Maida’s influence stretched far beyond the bands he played for. His nimble playing style, deep knowledge of music history, and infectious enthusiasm left a lasting mark on the industry.
A Musical Journey That Began in Little Italy
Born on July 29, 1948, in New York, Salvatore Maida grew up in the vibrant streets of Manhattan’s Little Italy. The sounds of the neighborhood shaped his musical tastes early on. “I heard a multitude of sounds emanating from the jukebox below my window, from Sinatra to the Stones, Motown, Ray Charles, The Beatles, and Dinah Washington,” he once recalled.
Though music was his passion, Maida initially took a different route, earning a degree in economics from Fordham University. However, it wasn’t long before his love for music steered his career in another direction. A chance encounter in London would change everything.
From Record Store Clerk to Roxy Music’s Touring Bassist
After moving to London post-graduation, Maida found himself working in a record store—an environment where he could immerse himself in the rhythms of the British music scene. It was there that he met Paul Thompson, the drummer for Roxy Music. Impressed by Maida’s talent and enthusiasm, Thompson invited him to join the band for their Stranded tour in 1973.
Maida’s addition to Roxy Music amplified their already sophisticated sound. While he was not part of their recording sessions, his live performances enthralled audiences. His ability to blend technical prowess with theatrical stage presence made him a natural fit for the band’s art-rock aesthetic.
Milk ’N’ Cookies: A Short-Lived Band with a Lasting Influence
In 1974, Maida joined the rising power-pop band Milk ’N’ Cookies, who had been signed to Island Records by Muff Winwood. Although their original run was short-lived, the band’s impact was immense, particularly on the burgeoning punk rock movement.
Their 1975 debut album, while initially overlooked, became a cult classic. When it was reissued in the mid-2000s, Milk ’N’ Cookies reunited briefly, playing shows into the 2010s. Maida’s energetic, melodic bass playing was a crucial part of their signature sound, which influenced punk and new wave bands that followed.
Sparks, Ronnie Spector, and a Genre-Spanning Career
If there’s one thing that defined Maida’s career, it was versatility. In addition to Roxy Music and Milk ’N’ Cookies, he played for Sparks on their 1976 album Big Beat, adding his distinctive bass grooves to the band’s quirky, theatrical rock style.
He later collaborated with The Runaways, Cracker, Camper Van Beethoven, and even Ronnie Spector. Throughout his decades-long career, Maida showcased an ability to adapt his playing to various styles—from glam rock to power pop and beyond. He wasn’t just a bassist; he was a musical storyteller.
A Passion for Music History and Radio Broadcasting
In his later years, Maida didn’t slow down. His love for early rock and pop never faded, leading him to write a memoir titled Four Strings, Phony Proof, and 300 45s in 2017. The book was not just a retelling of his own career but a deep dive into the records and artists that shaped his musical identity.
Maida also hosted Spin Cycle, a radio show through which he shared rare music finds, discussed music history, and entertained audiences with stories from his eventful career. His deep knowledge made him a beloved voice in the music community, as he continued to educate and inspire younger generations.
A Legacy That Lives On
Maida’s passing is a significant loss in the music world. Beyond his extraordinary musicianship, he was known for his warm personality and humor. HoZac Books, which published his memoir and a follow-up edition featuring his analysis of bassists from 1960-1970, described him as “the cool older brother we never had.”
He is survived by his wife, Lisa Burns-Maida, as well as countless friends and fans whose lives he touched. His son, Dylan, passed away in 2019 from melanoma, a tragedy that deeply affected him.
Even though he’s gone, Sal Maida’s contributions to music will endure. His basslines will continue to pulse through classic albums, his stories will live on in print, and his influence will shape musicians for years to come.
Read more at The Hollywood Reporter.