Memorial for John Breakell.

John Breakell, the founder of Spirit Studios, sadly passed away earlier this year. From facilitating iconic artists and bands in the early 80s, to creating a music and audio school that has shaped the lives and careers of generations of students, John’s legacy has left an imprint on Manchester’s music scene.

You can read more about the early history of Spirit Studios here.

We held a memorial celebrating John’s life at the original site of Spirit Studios on Tariff Street. Bringing together many of the people that recorded, worked or studied at Spirit since the early 80s who shared their memories of John, highlighting the impact he had.

“Sorry to hear of John’s passing. He was always very supportive of me when I was on the course at SSR in ’87. He even trusted me with the keys so I could do overnight sessions after the clubs. It was rave central down in the basement of Tariff St. So many important dance records were made there including 808 State’s Newbuild album, Pacific State and much of our 90 album.”

“John invested in music technology in the late 80s that opened up a whole new musical world to us impoverished musicians. Computers and Samplers were very exciting and new. I have to say thank you for his vision and exploring the idea of a studio engineering school, there are many now, but John’s was one of the first in the country if not the world. He actually changed the culture of our music city by providing his dream of a creative space. It was a bit chaotic at first, a bit rock & roll, but that’s often where the creative gold lives.”

Graham Massey – 808 State

“John Breakell. Manchester Maverick. Joining you on the Spirit journey was the best thing I did back in 1983. Your disregard for convention, procedure and getting the vision done has been something I still carry with me. Love you big time.”

Tim Oliver – Original lecturer at Spirit

“John’s passing marks the end of an era that we all hold dear. So many memories of working at Spirit, the parties and holidays. Great days, such a party, such a fun guy to be around. Always in our hearts, thanks for everything John.”

Darrin Tidsey – Sound Engineer

John created such a special launch pad here in this basement. If anyone else had done it, it would have too many boundaries. The freedom and slight chaos was the key. It was a social space where creators rubbed up against each other & competed. Much magic emerged driven by the emerging technology and atmosphere. 
Special times – Bless him x

Graham Massey – 808 State