Bradley T. "Porque" Baker

Baker, Bradley T. "Porque" Age 58, of Nashville, Tennessee, formerly of Aurora passed away Friday, August 31, 2012 at his residence. He was born January 10, 1954 in Aurora, the son of the late Shirley (Don) and Lorna (Brown) Baker. He was a graduate of Williams Military Academy in Wheaton and East Aurora High School. Brad spent most of his life working in the music industry. His early years were spent singing and working with Chicago area rock bands including Studebaker Hawk and The Boyzz from Illinois. Later he traveled the world with music legends such as Chicago, The Beach Boys, Alvin Lee & Ten Years After, Loverboy and Night Ranger. But, he was best known for the many years he toured with REO Speedwagon serving as a guitar technician for Kevin Cronin and Bruce Hall. He also formed and fronted his own band known as Hotel Bill and The Incidentals, and penned the cult classic song "Wasted Rock Ranger" which was recorded by the band Great White. Later in his career, Brad managed Third Encore Studios in Los Angeles where he virtually worked with everybody who was anybody in the music business. He later transferred to Nashville and helped to open Sound Stage Studios continuing to serve the brightest stars in Country Music. Brad also conceived, developed and promoted the famous Itchycoo Park Music Festival in Tennessee which grew into the massive annual Bonaroo festival. His final years were spent managing and engineering sound at the End Nightclub in Nashville. Affectionately known throughout the industry by his nickname "Porque", he had an influence on all he came in contact with. Leaving an indelible mark on everyone he met with his contagious smile and vibrant nature, Brad was truly larger than life. We are certain that Heaven just got a great singer and it is a whole lot louder up there! Brad is survived by his niece, Kim (Baker) Nickels of Silvis, Illinois and a "sister", Dr. Helen Baker of Montgomery. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by one brother, Dr. Neal Baker. There will be no funeral. A celebration of his life will be held in Nashville at a later date. Austin Funeral & Cremation Services, 615-377-0775.