Keith Altham, the pioneering music publicist widely regarded as Britain’s first rock PR, has died aged 84 following a Parkinson’s diagnosis. Over a career that helped shape the modern music industry , Altham represented some of the biggest names in rock – including The Rolling Stones , The Who, Jimi Hendrix , Marc Bolan, Slade, Status Quo, Van Morrison and Sting – while mentoring generations of publicists who followed in his wake. In a tribute, Roger Daltrey said: “Keith had the magic touch of taking care of an artist’s trajectory. He really cared about the people he represented. He was the best in the business in his day, and taught the best in the business of today.” Despite decades spent among some of rock’s wildest personalities, Altham retained a warmth and humanity that earned him immense affection across the industry. News of his death prompted tributes from artists spanning generations, from Squeeze to Spandau Ballet.…