David Z: key obituary facts
Is David Z dead? Yes. David Z died on August 2, 2026, at age 78.
Cause of death: David Z's cause of death has not been publicly confirmed.
What was David Z known for?
He was an American producer, engineer, mixer, songwriter and musician.
More about David Z
Born: 1 January 1953.
Place of birth: Minneapolis.
Gender: male.
Occupation: record producer, composer.
Nationality: United States.
Career began: 1969.
Also known as: David Rivkin, David B. Rivkin, Pam Rifkin.
Genres: Rock, funk, pop rock.
Occupations: Music producer, songwriter, audio engineer.
Instruments: Drum Machine, guitar, piano.
Years active: 1969–2026.
David Z, the American record producer and musician known for his work on “She Drives Me Crazy” and “Looking for a New Love,” died on August 2, 2026, aged 78.
Born David Bruce Rivkin, he built a career as a producer, engineer, songwriter and musician from Minneapolis, and became closely associated with Prince. He was also a member of Lipps Inc., the group behind the hit “Funkytown,” and went on to contribute to recordings by Etta James, Billy Idol, BoDeans, Buddy Guy and Neneh Cherry.
His work helped shape the Minneapolis sound and included the distinctive snare-drum effect on Fine Young Cannibals’ “She Drives Me Crazy.”