James Ford, prolific producer and Simian Mobile Disco member, diagnosed with leukemia
James has produced records by Arctic Monkeys, Fontaines D.C., Beth Gibbons, Gorillaz, Blur, Depeche Mode, Klaxons, and many others.
Prolific producer and musician James Ford has revealed some sad news: he’s been diagnosed with acute leukemia. His statement reads:
I have some personal news to share.
I was feeling pretty rough in the run up to Christmas suspecting burnout but on Xmas eve things took a turn for the worse. I had a scary few weeks where I was very ill and they didn’t know what was wrong with me, but finally I got a diagnosis.
I have AML (Acute Leukemia)
It’s a huge shock and while it’s very clear in my mind how serious this is, it is curable, and as of today I’m starting pretty aggressive chemo to treat it. I’m in Barts Hospital, who are world leaders in leukaemia treatments, and I’ve had excellent care from our wonderful NHS, both initially in Canterbury Hospital before being moved here to Barts just last week I’m very aware that it’s gonna be a bumpy road ahead but I’m confident, upbeat, and ready to fight and I hope to be out the other side of the initial treatment in 6-8 months time. Needless to say, I’ve had to clear my work diary which has meant putting on hold a lot of very exciting musical projects I was eager to get stuck into. Whilst this is a massive shame, I know they will go on to deliver great records with whoever takes the reins, and I wish them all the best.
I am really looking forward to getting back into the studio in my own time so that I can once again work on the music that is dear to me.I want to express the deepest possible gratitude to my family, friends and colleagues who have been so supportive at this difficult time, particularly my wife Sereen and all the NHS staff who’ve looked me so brilliantly.
Love to all,
James
We’re pulling for you and wishing you the best, James.
In addition to being a member of Simian Mobile Disco and Arctic Monkeys offshoot The Last Shadow Puppets, James has produced albums for countless artists, including Arctic Monkeys, Fontaines D.C., Beth Gibbons, The Last Dinner Party, Blur, Gorillaz, Depeche Mode, Jessie Ware, Foals, Klaxons, and more. In 2023, he released his debut solo album as James Ellis Ford, The Hum, on Warp.
