Legendary Flint Producer Bernard Terry Passes

Legendary Flint Music Producer Bernard Terry, age 69, of Mt. Morris, passed away Thursday, May 13, 2021 at his residence.

Bernard began his life-long passion for music early in his childhood when he learned to play the guitar, taught by a friend of the family.

Bernard eventually made his way to Flint Michigan, where he joined a band called The Music Box. They played at various venues including the then popular nightclub Papa’s Bag.

He later established another band called the J.C.C.L.B. Movement. This band's popularity grew, leading them to tour and play all over the Midwest.  They were a constant staple at clubs like The Piece of the Rock, Motor City, and The Beacon, to name a few.

As the band's popularity grew, his skill set began to transition and elevate. Bernard’s technical mind, his thirst for knowledge, and his genuine desire to help everyone he touched led him to his calling as a music producer/studio engineer.

His journey allowed him to work with a laundry list of musical giants such as Howard Hewitt, Clarence Avant, Ready For The World, The Dayton Family, MC Breed, Dezi Phillips, Davina Bussey, Mama Sol, Jon Connor, Mary Davis of the S.O.S. Band, Babyface, LA Reid, DJ Vintage Future, Sophia Janell, Quala D, Tone, Gerald Busby, Louis Silas, Ernie Singleton, Honorable Leona and Leonia Lloyd, Johnny Manuel, Calvin Ventura, Yahman Aziza Dennie, Jake The Flake, Cliff Mack, Top Authority, Bone Crusher, Gee Pierce, Wilfred ‘Nenja’ Frelix, Macana Roxie, Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis, Troy Garland, Timothy (Pee Wee) Moore, Cory Peterson, Gwen Pennyman, Derrick Martin, Derrick Joshua, Fab Morvan from Milli Vanilli, Frank G., The Process, Ghetto Priest and Vann Johnson to name a few. 

On May 13, in Mt. Morris Township at Coldwater Road just west of Detroit Street, a crash occurred with a car and an MTA bus. A woman and her three-month-old baby were inside the vehicle. Bernard Terry saw the crash take place near his home and rescued the baby from the car. The mother died at the scene.

Hours later, Bernard Terry died of a heart attack.

Every artist who had the privilege of working with Bernard has a deep and abiding respect for the man, with his soft spoken demeanor, and care and attention to the music he mixed and helped create.

Rest well Bernard Terry, "The man with the golden ears.”  You will never be forgotten.