Barney Perkins

Barney Perkins was a renowned recording engineer, producer, and composer, whose work helped shape the sound of soul, blues, rock, and R&B music. With an Associate Degree in Electrical Engineering, he quickly transitioned into the world of music, beginning his career in Detroit with legendary songwriting team Holland-Dozier-Holland as their staff engineer. His precision and dedication to excellence earned him a reputation as a perfectionist early on.

In 1973, Perkins moved to Los Angeles, where he became an engineer at ABC/Dunhill Records. There, he worked on projects with notable artists such as Steely Dan and Jim Croce, and collaborated with esteemed industry professionals, including Leslie Ann Jones, now Director of Music Recording and Scoring at Skywalker Sound.

From the early 1970s onward, Perkins worked almost non-stop with some of the biggest names in Motown, soul, blues, and R&B. His credits include legendary artists such as The Four Tops, Barry White, Babyface, Bobby Womack, Marvin Gaye, Aretha Franklin, and The Temptations. His ability to craft warm, rich, and emotionally resonant recordings made him one of the most respected engineers of his era.