Renowned American Christian music songwriter, producer, arranger, and keyboardist, Don Koch, passed away peacefully on January 15th, 2024. A prominent figure in the music industry, Koch co-founded Red Street Records, leaving an indelible mark on Christian music.
Throughout his illustrious career, Koch achieved remarkable success, winning six GMA Dove Awards, including Song Of The Year in 1994 for “In Christ Alone.” His contributions extended to various categories, such as Inspirational Recorded Song Of The Year and Inspirational Album Of The Year.
Born in San Jose, Costa Rica, to missionary parents, Koch’s musical journey led him to Nashville in 1980, where he pursued a career in sound engineering. His talent for songwriting quickly emerged, and he signed his first publishing deal with Benson Record Company in 1986. Koch went on to write 38 No. 1 songs, including hits like “In Christ Alone,” “Mercy Said No,” and “Adonai.”
Don Koch’s impact stretched beyond songwriting; he became a successful publisher and record producer, working with renowned artists like 4Him, Newsong, Avalon, and more. His legacy is celebrated through the timeless music that continues to inspire millions.
ACM Awards shared through twitter, “The Academy is deeply saddened by the passing of Don Koch, a songwriter and Country Music industry executive who launched Red Street Records alongside Jay DeMarcus in 2018. Jay took to Instagram to share a heartfelt tribute to his longtime mentor and dear friend.”
Jay DeMarcus wrote on Instagram, “Don Koch and I started the @redstreetrecordsofficial journey together in 2018. It seemed so fitting that we had come full circle since he was the one who ultimately brought me to Nashville and got @nealcoomer and I our first record deal with Benson Records. I owe this man a lot, and I learned so much from him as a song writer-he was a wonderful mentor, and friend.
Don went home last night, he is no longer in pain. To say that I will miss him seems so trite and insufficient right now, but boy has he ever left his mark!! The legacy he leaves behind is remarkable… Songs like “In Christ Alone”, “Strange Way To Save The Word”, “For Future Generations”, “Adonai”… The list goes on and on. The power and anointing on this man and his music was palpable when you were in the room with him. I am saddened today for all of us whose lives he touched but I’m filled with the hope and comfort of knowing I will see him again someday on the other side… I love you Don, thanks for the memories, thanks for the music.”
Red Street Records shared through their official twitter handle, “The Red Street family lost one of its own last night. After fighting a long, painful battle with cancer, Don Koch has gone home. We will miss him dearly but the legacy he leaves behind and the lives that he touched through his music is immeasurable.”
In his memory, a collection of photos, memories, and thoughts can be shared with the family via email at [email protected]. As the community mourns the loss of Don Koch, his family requests everyone to keep them in their thoughts and prayers during this challenging time.
Categories: News
Source: vothisaucamau.edu.vn
