Barry Squire Death, Obituary Santa Monica, CA – The music world is mourning the passing of Barry Squire, a respected figure in the entertainment industry and a beloved instructor at the Musician’s Institute (MI) College of Music. Barry Squire, known for his deep connections within the music scene, passed away on December 2, 2024, leaving a significant void in the lives of students, colleagues, and musicians who knew him. Barry was not just a teacher; he was a mentor, friend, and career guide to countless aspiring musicians. Over the years, he became a central figure in the Los Angeles music community, known for his unique ability to connect talent with opportunities.
Through his work at MI College, Barry helped students secure placements with some of the biggest artists in the world, providing them with invaluable guidance that helped shape their careers. His legacy within the college and the wider industry is profound, with many students crediting his influence as a key factor in their professional success. The news of his passing has been met with an outpouring of tributes from those who knew him personally and professionally. Musician Jimmy Paxson shared his memories of Barry on Facebook, recalling how they became friends many years ago after Paxson auditioned for a Los Angeles band. “Barry (who was also a drummer) and I hit it off hard and stayed in touch forever,” Paxson wrote. “He ran most LA auditions and was a great dude.
Our relationship really took on a new level when I mentioned to him that I was playing weekends at Panchos, and after a visit, he came back to see the band again and again and again — year after year after year. I loved the mf’r. Rest on Barry – forever to be missed.” Barry was not only a mentor but also a friend to many in the industry, with his impact reaching far beyond the classroom. According to those who knew him, he was a beloved figure who could not walk through Los Angeles without being recognized by entertainers whose careers he had helped shape. His ability to connect with people and his willingness to offer assistance to anyone in need made him a unique figure in the entertainment community. As one tribute put it, Barry stood out “head and shoulders and beyond most others” for his genuine commitment to helping others.
At MI College, Barry was known for his dedication to his students and his passion for the music industry. His influence was felt not only through the students he mentored but also through the many alumni who continue to honor his legacy by following in his footsteps. In a statement, MI College expressed their sorrow, saying, *”It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of our beloved instructor, Barry Squire. Barry was a pillar of the MI College of Music community, known not only for his extensive career but for the profound impact he had on our students and alumni.”*
As the music community reflects on Barry Squire’s remarkable life and career, his contributions to the industry will be remembered for years to come. His dedication to helping others and his passion for music remain a lasting legacy. Barry’s passing is a profound loss, but his impact on the lives he touched will continue to inspire musicians for generations.
