Jeff Slingluff passed on September 9, 2022, following complications from COVID-19 at the age of 55. As the BOSS strategic product manager for the U.S., Jeff was extensively involved in product content and tradeshow booth design, dealer training and support, and video content. His depth of knowledge and willingness to share his genuine excitement for gear, both new and classic, made him an industry favorite for content and interviews.
When Jeff joined BOSS in 2016, BOSS engineers quickly integrated him into the product development process, involving him in new product ideas, conceptual designs, visual and user interface design, and sound design. His unique philosophy in how to craft a product’s look and feel, combined with a friendly, intuitive user interface, contributed to the success of BOSS products ranging from the award-winning Katana and Nextone Amplifier series to the highly acclaimed WAZA-TAE Tube Amp Expander and RE-202 Space Echo.
“I loved Jeff’s smile, positive attitude, and way of thinking. I loved to talk to him—he was always optimistic. Conversations with Jeff gave me lots of inspiration and hints for new product ideas. He supported and helped me and BOSS so much over the last six years,” offered Yoshi Ikegami, BOSS president from 2002 to 2022.
Jeff was a graduate of the Musicians Institute, and before joining BOSS, he lent his talents and vision to Alesis, Line 6, and Sound Machine LLC. Through his work on products like the POD Series, DL4 Delay Modeler, and a vast library of algorithms and models, Jeff honed the tones that became the foundation for gold and platinum-selling albums, world stadium tours, and countless home productions. Working shoulder-to-shoulder with Line 6’s engineers, Jeff helped pioneer, evolve, and refine the techniques of modeling that have become the foundation of many modern guitar amplifiers, effects processors, and plug-ins. Jeff’s sound design talents were also used in multiple plug-ins for Universal Audio, as well as the first digital pedals for Dunlop Manufacturing and its MXR brand.
As a family man, musician, guitarist, sound engineer, gear tinkerer, and animal lover, Jeff had many passions. He was exceedingly accepting, loving, and kind, and he embraced everyone for who they were without judgement. Jeff was also a great listener, no matter the person or situation. He made people feel heard, he made people feel valued, and his door was always open. In a world filled with challenges, Jeff had a heart full of joy.
Jeff is survived by Jean Shen, his partner of more than 15 years, and his children Amanda (28) and Koda (23).
The teams at Roland and BOSS send heartfelt condolences to Jeff’s family, friends, and colleagues around the world.
