Calvin G. Hayes
- Jul 21
- 2 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
Calvin G. Hayes passed away and went to the studio in the sky. Born November 1962 in England, departed on July 08, 2026, at his home in Spokane Washington. He is survived by his wife Kathy Hayes and son Alex Hayes, younger sisters Natalie Hayes and Crystal Hayes.
He will be greatly missed as he was an incredible musician and producer. He founded the band Johnny Hates Jazz with Mike Nocito. Clark Datchler joined to become the lead singer and they found success with hit single “Shattered Dreams”, released March of 1987, and became a top 5 hit in the UK, 11 throughout Europe and Asia and reached number 2 in Japan, from their debut album, Turn Back the Clock. Additionally, “Shattered Dreams” reached number 2 on the US Billboard Hot 100, No. 1 on the US Adult Contemporary chart, and number 4 in Canada. That same year their album Turn Back the Clock entered the UK Albums Chart at number 1, selling four million copies. It was followed by three other worldwide hits, “I Don’t Want to Be a Hero”, “Turn Back the Clock” (featuring Kim Wilde on backing vocals) and “Heart of Gold”.
He played several roles on the album including piano, keyboards, drums, backing vocals and production. Johnny Hates Jazz performed a showcase ironically at Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club and were subsequently signed to Virgin Records and worked closely with Caroline True.
At the end of 1987, JHJ made two music videos for “Shattered Dreams” and “Heart of Gold” with director David Fincher. The group made multiple appearances on Top of the Pops between 1987 to 1988 which you can still view on YouTube. Additionally, the video “I Don’t Want to Be a Hero”, was directed by Andy Morahan.
Clark Dathcler left the band in the end of 1988 directly after filming the video for “Don’t Say it’s Love” directed by Dominic Sena. Calvin and Mike continued the band with new lead vocalist Phil Thornalley, an engineer, record producer and former bass player for The Cure. They released the album Tall Stories in 1991. However, the album was unsuccessful, and the band dissolved following a car accident in which Calvin was badly injured and in hospital for two years. Calvin was the son of the successful UK producer Mickie Most (1938-2003). Mickie founded RAK studios and produced big hits in the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s to include The Animals, Herman’s Hermits, Donovan, Lulu, Suzi Quatro, Hot Chocolate and Kim Wilde.
Calvin’s Memorial Service will be held on August 6th, 2026, from 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm at Heritage Funeral and Cremation. 508 North Government Way. Spokane, Washington 99224. A reception will follow from 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Livestream is available:
A Celebration of Life Gathering will be held at Francaise French Restaurant, 928 Perry St. Spokane, WA 99202 from 4pm to 7pm. Family will have a Champagne Toast in memory of Calvin at 5:00 pm with his favorite foods and wine.
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