Additional Coverage:
- Founding Member of Beloved ’80s Band Dies Suddenly at 63: ‘We Are Utterly Shocked and Deeply Saddened’ (parade.com)
Calvin Hayes, a founding member of the British pop band Johnny Hates Jazz, has passed away at the age of 63 after collapsing at his home in Washington state. His wife, Kathy, confirmed his death, and on Saturday, Hayes’ former bandmates Clark Datchler and Mike Nocito shared an emotional tribute honoring his life and the enduring impact of their music.
Johnny Hates Jazz was formed in 1986 by Hayes, Datchler, and Nocito. After a modest start, the band achieved international fame with their 1987 hit “Shattered Dreams.”
The song resonated strongly in the United States, reaching No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and topping the Adult Contemporary chart. The band followed up with hits like “I Don’t Want to Be a Hero,” “Turn Back the Clock,” and “Heart of Gold.”
Their debut album, Turn Back the Clock, topped the UK charts and sold millions worldwide.
In a heartfelt statement on Instagram, Datchler and Nocito expressed they were “utterly shocked and deeply saddened” by Hayes’ passing. They explained that they had taken time to speak privately with friends and family before going public, allowing themselves to process the loss and reflect on their shared history.
They described their bond as “brothers in arms for an extraordinary moment in time,” highlighting how their music had touched audiences around the globe. Although Hayes had not been active with the band for some time, they noted he remained proud that their songs, especially those from Turn Back the Clock, still resonated with listeners 40 years later. The tribute closed with warm memories of the camaraderie they shared and a promise to remember Hayes fondly.
After the band’s early success, Clark Datchler left in 1988 to pursue a solo career, while Hayes and Nocito continued working with singer Phil Thornalley. Hayes’ career was interrupted by a serious car accident that required a lengthy hospitalization.
He later reunited with the original members for live performances in 2010 before stepping away again. Outside of Johnny Hates Jazz, Hayes also collaborated with other artists such as Kim Wilde.
Notably, he was the son of legendary producer Mickie Most, known for working with The Animals, Herman’s Hermits, Suzi Quatro, and Hot Chocolate.
Nearly 40 years after “Shattered Dreams” became a defining hit of the late 1980s, Calvin Hayes is remembered not only for his contributions to pop music but also for the lasting friendships and legacy he helped create.