Mark Kamins, the DJ who helped Madonna get signed to Sire Records and produced her debut single ‘Everybody’ died on Valentine’s Day, he was 58 years old.

Kamins dated Madonna in the early 80’s and was influential in introducing her to record boss Seymour Stein who famously signed Madonna while he was in hospital. Kamins produced Madonna’s debut single ‘Everybody’ in 1982. Upon hearing of his death Madonna told the Hollywood Reporter,

“I’m very sorry to hear about Mark. If it weren’t for him, I might not have had a singing career.

“He was the first DJ to play my demos. He believed in me before anyone else. I owe him. May he rest in peace.”

Kamins was an influential resident DJ at the Danceteria Nightclub, the historic NYC multi-story club that is famed for its eclectic selection of music.    Kamins died in Mexico from a heart attack. Aside from his work with Madonna he also produced records for David Byrne, Sinead O’Connor and the Beastie Boys.

Watch below as Madonna performs ‘Everybody’ at Danceteria in 1982.