Al Schmitt

Al Schmitt was an American recording engineer and producer, widely regarded as one of the most influential and decorated figures in the music industry. Over a career spanning more than six decades, he worked with some of the most iconic artists in history, including Henry Mancini, Steely Dan, George Benson, Toto, Natalie Cole, and Quincy Jones.

Schmitt’s unparalleled expertise in capturing pristine sound earned him an astonishing 20 Grammy Awards, making him one of the most awarded engineers of all time. His contributions extended beyond traditional Grammys, as he also won two Latin Grammy Awards and was honored with a Trustees Grammy for Lifetime Achievement, cementing his legacy as a pioneer in audio engineering.

His meticulous attention to detail, innovative recording techniques, and ability to bring out the best in artists made him a sought-after figure in the music world. Whether working on jazz, pop, rock, or orchestral recordings, Schmitt’s signature sound—warm, balanced, and immersive—became the gold standard for generations of engineers.