Max Crook

Max Crook (born November 8, 1936, in Newark, Ohio; died July 1, 2020, in Newark, Ohio) was an American musician and keyboardist, best known for his instrumental hit "Runaway" co-written and performed with Del Shannon in 1961.

Crook invented the Musitron, an early electronic keyboard instrument that produced a unique, otherworldly sound. The Musitron's distinctive timbre was crucial to the success of "Runaway," creating its memorable and haunting keyboard riff. He experimented with oscillators and tape loops to create the device, which predated many commercially available synthesizers.

Prior to his success with Del Shannon, Crook played in local bands in Ohio. After "Runaway" became a hit, he toured extensively with Shannon. Though "Runaway" remained his most notable work, Crook continued to perform and develop his musical ideas throughout his career.

He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as an Early Influence in 2024.