Respecting The Musical Legacy Of JOHN SYKES With MARK ALEXANDER-ERBER From GOLDEN ROBOT RECORDS

HEAVY Music Interviews

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15d ago 14:57

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Interview by Kris Peters
The world lost a true legend earlier this year, when vocalist/guitarist John Sykes - Whitesnake, Thin Lizzy, Tygers Of Pan Tang - lost his battle with cancer. While his legacy endures thanks to the music he created, the world has still lost a musical innovator and pioneer with a gift for writing timeless music.
Around eight years ago, Sykes entered into a contract with then-fledgling music label Golden Robot Records, agreeing to terms for a new album to be released through the company. But over the ensuing few years and as life and circumstances got in the way, all that was honoured by Sykes in that contract was four songs, written by him with a view to completing a full album down the track, that have until now remained locked away from the world in their original demo state.
Since Sykes' passing, the label has gone to the vault and dusted off the cobwebs and had them professionally remixed and remastered by Aussie legendary producer Paul Gommersall (Paul Weller, George Michael, GNR).
Paying respect to the music and legacy of John Sykes, Golden Robot decided to allow the music world at least six months to grieve the loss of Sykes before announcing their intentions to release the four songs - the first new music from Sykes in a quarter of a century - as a four-track EP.
It was a decision taken with much respect to the situation, the man, and his music, but ultimately one which Golden Robot Records believes serves the best interests of fans and enables them to release material which was to form the nucleus of a full body of work.
Golden Robot Global Entertainment’s Mark Alexander-Erber sat down with HEAVY to talk us through the release and the history behind four tracks, which could well be the final recording the world hears from a man who has shaped so much of its history.
"John was introduced to me during the formative days of Golden Robot Records’ journey in Los Angeles," Mark explained. "The label officially launched around 2015, and by 2017 we had entered into an agreement with John for a full-length studio album. The original contract was straightforward — John was to deliver a minimum of ten tracks for a complete album."
"As per the terms of the agreement, we made an initial payment to John, and everything was progressing well. John preferred to work at his own creative pace, which we respected. The understanding was that upon delivery of additional material, a second tranche of payment would be made. However, as time went on, it became clear that what we had originally paid for and what was ultimately being delivered were two very different things."
"That said, we approached the situation the way we always have at Golden Robot — through open communication and a commitment to the relationship. Like many bands we worked with in those early years, it was never just about rigid contractual enforcement; it was about navigating challenges together in good faith."
"In the end, what we received were four absolutely outstanding demos — powerful, compelling tracks that truly reflect John’s immense talent and artistic voice. While it wasn’t the full album we initially set out to produce, those recordings have tremendous value, and we’re proud to be the ones bringing them to the world."
In the full interview, Mark provided detailed insights into his professional relationship with John Sykes, which commenced in 2017. He acknowledged that while not all contractual obligations were fulfilled to the letter, all parties involved reached mutual compromises in good faith. Mark expressed sincere appreciation for their personal and professional relationship, noting the importance of approaching sensitive matters with discretion and respect.
The discussion also included specifics regarding the forthcoming 4-track EP, which will feature two previously unreleased songs along with remastered versions of two existing tracks. Mark confirmed that the estate of the late artist will receive the royalties as stipulated under the terms of the agreement.
He conveyed confidence in the artistic and technical quality of the recordings, stating that the work pays a respectful and authentic tribute to John’s legacy. The release strategy includes the rollout of two singles ahead of the EP, with the first single scheduled for release in late June through Golden Robot Records on a global basis.
We discussed Mark's personal relationship with John and the decision to delay releasing the songs after John's death, and more.
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