David Z (producer)

David Z
David Z in 2008.
David Z in 2008.
Background information
Birth nameDavid Rivkin
Born1953 (age 70–71)
OriginMinneapolis, Minnesota, U.S.
GenresRock, funk, pop rock
Occupation(s)Music producer, songwriter, audio engineer
Instrument(s)Drum Machine, guitar, piano
Years active1969–present

David Rivkin (born 1953), professionally known as David Z, is an American music producer, engineer, and songwriter from Minneapolis, Minnesota.[1] He is best known for his long-standing work with Prince and has contributed to albums by Etta James, Billy Idol, BoDeans, Buddy Guy, and Neneh Cherry.

Rivkin was a member of Lipps Inc, with whom he had a US #1 and UK #2 hit with "Funkytown" (1980).[2] He produced Fine Young Cannibals' "She Drives Me Crazy" (1988), creating the song's signature snare drum sound.[3] As of 2021, Rivkin is based in Los Angeles.

  1. ^ Mix -1997 Volume 21, Issues 7-12 - Page 56 "DAVID Z David Z is one of those producer/engineers who has had the good fortune of being able to successfully defy pigeonholing. Z's credits include dance music divas Jody Watley and Neneh Cherry, as well as work with Prince."
  2. ^ "Twin Cities Music Highlights: David Z Discography" (PDF). Archived from the original (PDF) on 2010-09-23. Retrieved 2009-11-09.
  3. ^ Mix Online: Fine Young Cannibals' "She Drives Me Crazy" Archived 2005-02-10 at the Wayback Machine