Dave Smith, the father of MIDI, has died aged 72

nme.com:

The Cure, Bon Iver, Hot Chip and Duran Duran have paid tribute to Dave Smith, the founder of Sequential Synth and MIDI Pioneer, following his death aged 72.A post on the Sequential website confirmed the news. “It is with heavy hearts that we share the news that Dave Smith has died.

We’re heartbroken, but take some small solace in knowing he was on the road doing what he loved best in the company of family, friends, and artists,” said the announcement.Smith, also known as the king of MIDI, invented a range of synths that were used by electronic artists throughout the ‘80s as well as by Radiohead on their experimental ‘Kid A’.Taking to Twitter, The Cure’s Roger O’Donnell wrote: So sad to hear of Dave Smith’s death.

He started Sequential Circuits who made some of the most iconic synths from the early ‘80s until now. He invented MIDI!!! The Prophet 5 is one of the greatest synths ever made, he will never be forgotten.

Great man and a dear friend.”So sad to hear of Dave Smiths death, he started Sequential Circuits who made some of the most iconic synths from the early 80s until now… He invented MIDI!!!