May 19, 2023 ~ Alternative rock bassist Andy Rourke, full name Andrew Michael Rourke, passed away ~ Member of the Smiths, joining the band shortly after its first gig. The band is considered one of the most important to emerge from 1980's Britain indie scene and recorded four albums including the acclaimed The Smiths debut album released in 1984 and The Queen Is Dead two years later. Well-known songs include Heaven Knows I'm Miserable Now, Sheila Take A Bow, and This Charming Man. Rourke has also appeared on Sinéad O'Connor's 1990 I Do Not Want What I Haven't Got album, backed former bandmate singer Morrissey on several of his solo outings, worked with the Pretenders, and formed Freebass ~ Rourke was born in 1964
May 19, 2023 ~ Singer, songwriter, poet Pete Brown, full name Peter Ronald Brown, passed away ~ Had his first poem published at age 14. Founded the First Real Poetry Band which also featured guitarist John McLaughlin. Also associated with Pete Brown & Piblokto, Battered Ornaments, and Cream. Co-penned some of the latter's best-known songs including I Feel Free, White Room, and The Sunshine Of Your Love. Has also worked with Graham Bond, Phil Ryan, and Gary Brooker ~ Brown was born in 1940
May 19, 2022 ~ Soul, R&B, funk, jazz, gospel keyboardist, singer Bernard Wright passed away ~ Worked with Tom Browne at age 16. Sessioned with Doug E Fresh, Cameo, Bobby Brown, Pieces Of A Dream, Charles Earland, Marcus Miller, and Miles Davis. As a solo artist recorded half a dozen albums, starting with 'Nard released in 1981. Often sampled by the likes of Dr Dre, Snoop Dogg, Skee Lo, and LL Cool J. Known for songs such as Just Chillin' Out, Haboglabotribin', Funky Beat and Who Do You Love, the latter reaching top 10 on the Billboard R&B charts. Starting in the 1990s Wright would focus mostly on gospel ~ Wright was born in 1963
May 19, 2021 ~ Country, folk, pop singer, songwriter Johnny Ashcroft, full name John Lewis Ashcroft, passed away in Sydney, Australia ~ Married to country singer Gay Kayler, with whom he has also collaborated. Primarily a country and folk singer, songwriter, yet has also recorded pop, skiffle, jazz and even disco at time using the moniker the Baron. Known best for songs such as Little Boy Lost, Playground In My Mind, Big River, The Girl Behind The Bar and Bailing Up The Mail ~ Ashcroft was born in 1927
May 19, 2020 ~ Singer Todd Tilghman wins the 18th season of The Voice, aired on NBC ~ Leaving singer Toneisha Harris in second place, Tilghman wins the 18th season of the talent show The Voice. Then aged 41, Tilghman would become the show's oldest winner. Tilghman, a pastor from Meridian, Mississippi, with no professional singing experience other than singing in his church choir, would later explain his decision to audition for the show: “I felt kind of an inner pull to try something new, even though The Voice was a real shot in the dark. And I had friends that encouraged me to do it. Lastly, my wife really insisted that I go through with the audition.”
May 19, 2019 ~ Jazz, classical pianist, composer Alfred Janson passed away ~ Known for works such as November for piano, the ballet Mot Solen and Sonnet Number 76 for choir and solo voice. Janson's work may sometimes be politically themed and he is one of the few Norwegian composers who has had a demonstration held against a performance of one of his works, Interlude For Orchestra Og Accordeon which was written as a salute to Arne Treholt, a convicted Russian spy ~ Janson was born in 1937
May 19, 2019 ~ Singer Laine Hardy wins American Idol ~ Beating fellow finalists Alejandro Aranda and Madison Vandenberg, Hardy wins the 17th season of talent show American Idol aired on ABC. Hardy had previously released his In The Bayou debut EP. Following his success on the show, he released his Flame single, which became a moderate hit. Two years later, Hardy follow up with his full-length Here's To Anyone debut, but failed to repeat his earlier success
May 19, 2016 ~ Bluegrass singer, guitarist James King, full name James Elroy King, passed away in Salem, Virginia, USA ~ Dubbed “the Bluegrass Storyteller” by Tom T Hall for his ability to infuse his story songs with emotion and authenticity. First gained attention working with the Stanley Brothers, appearing on the albums Stanley Brothers Classics and Reunion With George Shuffler. Recorded about a dozen albums as a solo artist, starting with It's A Cold Cold World released in 1989 ~ King was born in 1958
May 19, 2016 ~ Hardcore punk guitarist John Berry passed away in Danvers, Massachusetts, USA ~ Co-founded the Beastie Boys with Adam Yauch and Kate Schellenbach. Came up with the band's name. Berry departed the band in 1982, prior to their rise to fame, and would be succeedeed by Adam Horovitz ~ Berry was born in 1963
May 19, 2015 ~ At age 16, singer Sawyer Fredericks becomes the youngest contestant to win the talent contest The Voice ~ Beating fellow finalist Meghan Linsey, folk, blues singer, guitarist Fredericks wins the 8th season of The Voice, aired on NBC. Following his success on the show, Fredericks released his eponymous Sawyer Fredericks debut EP later the same year. Although it reached top 10 on both the Billboard Folk and Billboard Rock charts, Fredericks failed to cross over to mainstream audiences
May 19, 2011 ~ Kathleen O'Rourke, commonly known as singer Kathy Kirby, passed away in London, UK ~ Known for early 1960s UK hits such as Dance On, the Doris Day cover Secret Love, Let Me Go Lover, and You're The One. Represented UK at the 1965 Eurovision Songfestival with I Belong, reaching 2nd place right after France Gall's Poupée De Cire (Poupée De Son). Worked with Bert Ambrose, Nat Allen, the Denny Boyce Band, and others ~ O'Rourke was born in 1938
May 19, 2010 ~ Ennis L Lowery, commonly known as blues singer, guitarist Larry Dale, passed away in New York, New York, USA ~ As a solo artist known for songs such as Let The Doorbell Ring, Big Muddy and Drinking Wine (Spo-dee O-dee). Influenced the Rolling Stones' Brian Jones. Worked with Paul Williams, Big Red McHouston, Mickey Baker, Champion Jack Dupree, Bob Gaddy, and others ~ Dale was born in 1923
May 19, 2007 ~ Singer Dolly Parton sings I Will Always Love You for Porter Wagoner's 50th anniversary celebration at the Grand Ole Opry ~ Parton sings I Will Always Love You, one of her best-known, for her one-time partner and mentor Porter Wagoner at Wagoner's 50th anniversary celebration. She wrote the song in 1973 specifically with Wagoner in mind. The original recording was included on her 1974 Jolene album, the single would reach No.1 Billboard Country at the time and become one of Parton's best known
May 19, 2007 ~ Label executive, producer, songwriter Frank Guida passed away in Norfolk, Virginia, USA ~ Best known for discovering Gary US Bonds, known for New Orleans and Quarter To Three, both produced by Guida. Helped establish “the Norfolk Sound”. Also worked with Leroy Toombs, Jimmy Soul (If You Wanna Be Happy), Tommy Facenda (High School USA), Lenis Guess, Pamala Stanley, and others ~ Guida was born in 1921
May 19, 2006 ~ Jazz trumpeter Charles Turner, full name Charles Henry Turner, passed away ~ Best known for his association with Frank Sinatra. Also worked with Ella Fitzgerald, Jimmy Dorsey, Ralph Flanagan, Harry James, Charlie Spivak, Count Basie, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Ava Gardner, Sammy Davis Jr, Dean Martin, Wayne Newton, Andy Williams, Robert Goulet, Red Skelton, John Denver, Vic Damone, Steve Lawrence, Eydie Gormé, and others ~ Turner was born in 1936
May 19, 2004 ~ Arnold Dwight Moore, commonly known as blues, gospel singer, songwriter, pastor Gatemouth Moore, passed away in Yazoo City, Mississippi, USA ~ Worked with Bennie Moten, Tommy Douglas, Walter Barnes, Ida Cox, Ma Rainey, Bertha Hill, and others. As a songwriter had his songs recorded by Louis Jordan, Lonnie Johnson, Johnny Otis, Rufus Thomas, Jimmy Witherspoon, and by BB King who once called Moore “one of the greatest blues singers ever” ~ Moore was born in 1913
May 19, 2002 ~ The 33rd edition of Pinkpop takes place in Landgraaf, the Netherlands ~ Day 2 of 3. A sunny weekend, this year's edition would draw a crowd of in total some 63,000 visitors. Included on today's, Sunday the 19th's bill would be Lamb, Faithless, Racoon, Di-rect, Alien Ant Farm, Def P & Beatbusters, the Dropkick Murphys, An Pierlé, Super Furry Animals, E-Life, and Zero 7
May 19, 2000 ~ Folk trio Peter Paul & Mary kick off their US tour with a three-night stand in Las Vegas, Nevada ~ Celebrating their 40th year together folk trio Peter Paul & Mary kick off their US tour in Las Vegas. The trio were especially popular during the 1960s, scoring Billboard Hot 100 top 10 hits with If I Had A Hammer, Puff The Magic Dragon, Blowin' In The Wind, Don't Think Twice It's All Right, I Dig Rock & Roll Music, and Leaving On A Jet Plane, the latter reaching the top of the charts in 1969
May 19, 1998 ~ Film composer Edwin Astley, full name Edwin Thomas Astley, passed away in Goring-on-Thames, UK ~ Known for numerous film scores and TV themes, notably for the TV series The Saint, Danger Man and The Baron. Astley's daughter Karen Astley would be married to the Who-frontman, guitarist, singer Pete Townshend from 1968 until 2009, with whom she has three children ~ Astley was born in 1922
May 19, 1998 ~ Pop duo Sonny & Cher awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk Of Fame, Hollywood, California ~ The couple started their career in the mid-1960s as backing singers for producer Phil Spector. They would go on to score a string of hits through the early 1970s, including the Billboard Hot 100 top 10 hits I Got You Babe, The Beat Goes On and A Cowboy's Work Is Never Done, and host their own hugely popular TV show. For Sonny the honour would be awarded posthumously, as he passed away in a skiing accident the previous January
May 19, 1997 ~ The 28th edition of Pinkpop takes place in Landgraaf, the Netherlands ~ Day 3 of 3. Mostly sunny and warm, this year's edition would draw a crowd of in total 49,200 visitors. Included on today's, Saturday the 17th's bill would be Fountains Of Wayne, Silverchair, the Gathering, Kula Shaker, de Osdorp Posse, Live, Beck, Nada Surf, Eels, Supergrass, Tracy Bonham, the Counting Crows, dEUS, Bush, Cake, Skik, and Atari Teenage Riot
May 19, 1993 ~ The erotic thriller Sliver, prominently using the UB40 recording of I Can't Help Falling In Love, premiers in the USA ~ The erotic thriller starring Sharon Stone and William Baldwin premieres in the USA. The film is poorly received but its prominent use of UB40's Can't Help Falling In Love, best known as an Elvis Presley tune, helps the band secure their second Billboard Hot 100 No.1 hit. Previously, in 1983 the band had scored an American No.1 hit with Red Red Wine, a cover of the Neil Diamond classic
May 19, 1992 ~ Pop singer, songwriter Sam Smith, full name Samuel Frederick Smith, born in London, UK ~ Cites Adele and Amy Winehouse as primary influences. Released his In The Lonely Hour debut album in 2014, which included the UK top 10 hits Money On My Mind, Stay With Me, I'm Not The Only One and Like I Can. Has continued to record to commercial succes, songs such as The Writing's On The Wall, Too Good At Goodbyes, Promises with DJ Calvin Harris, Unholy with Kim Petras all reaching the No.1 spot in the singer's native UK
May 19, 1986 ~ Jazz, free jazz, avant-garde jazz saxophonist Jimmy Lyons passed away ~ Influenced by Charlie Parker. Best known for his association with Cecil Taylor, being the only constant member of the Cecil Taylor Unit from the mid-1960s until his death in 1986 including on acclaimed albums such as Conquistador, Live At the Café Montmartre and Akisakila. Also appears on albums by Urbie Green, Dave Brubeck, Eddie Gale (Black Rhythm Happening), and Joel Futterman, and has recorded as a leader, notably the albums Other Afternoons, Wee Sneezawee and Give It Up ~ Lyons was born in 1933
May 19, 1986 ~ The 17th edition of Pinkpop takes place in Geleen, the Netherlands ~ A warm summer day, some 50,000 visitors show up for this edition's bil which includes the Cure, the Cult, the Waterboys, Cock Robin, the Fine Young Cannibals, Blue Murder, Claw Boys Claw, Howard Hughes & the Western Approaches, the Blow Monkeys, and Gé Reinders
May 19, 1981 ~ Mario Sentell Giden Mims, commonly known as rapper Yo Gotti, born in Memphis, Tennessee, USA ~ Well over half a dozen albums to his name, starting with Youngsta's On A Come Up released in 1996 under the moniker Lil Yo. Best known for his 2017 Billboard Hot 100 top 10 single Rake It Up, a collaborative effort with Mike Will Made It featuring Nicki Minaj. Founded the Collective Music Group record label, whose roster includes artists such as Moneybagg Yo, 42 Dugg, Blac Youngsta, EST Gee, and Mozzy
May 19, 1980 ~ Singer Brenda Lee and the Oak Ridge Boys record Broken Trust at Woodland Sound Studios, Nashville, USA ~ Written by Jimbeau Hinson. Produced by Ron Chancey. Released the following September, paired with Right Behind The Rain on the B-side, it would reach top 10 of the American country charts, top 20 in Canada
May 19, 1979 ~ Guitarist Eric Clapton and model Patty Boyd finally get their wedding reception ~ As Clapton gets a break in touring the couple finally get a wedding reception, two months after they are married. Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr and George Harrison, formerly of the Beatles, are guests and perform at the wedding reception, it would be the first time in almost 10 years the former bandmates jam together
May 19, 1979 ~ Waylon Albright Jennings, commonly known as singer, guitarist Shooter Jennings, born in Nashville, Tennessee, USA ~ Son of country singers Waylon Jennings and Jessi Colter. Over half a dozen albums to his name since the mid-2000s, especially acclaimed for Family Man and its follow-up The Other Life. Has recorded with both his parents as well as with George Jones, Stargunn, Ted Russel Kamp, Deana Carter, Ike Reilly, Bucky Covington, Patty Griffin, Fifth On The Floor, Lukas Nelson, Wanda Jackson, Asleep At The Wheel, and Billy Ray Cyrus
May 19, 1976 ~ Singer, pianist Billy Joel releases Turnstiles, his fourth studio album ~ Joel's big breakthrough would come with The Stranger, released in 1978, but as most of his early albums Turnstiles did contain that one gem. For his debut album it was She's Got A Way, Piano Man had its title track, and Streetlife Serenade included The Entertainer. Songs that did gain some attention at the time of their release, but took time to grow on audiences and truly become Joel classics. For Turnstiles it was New York State Of Mind, one of three songs the native New Yorker wrote in celebration of his return to the Big Apple. Singer Barbra Streisand covered the song on her 1977 Superman album, much to Joel's delight who thanked her for the exposure, commenting that his New York relatives were impressed to have “the Queen of Brooklyn” cover one of his songs
May 19, 1975 ~ The 6th edition of Pinkpop takes place in Geleen, the Netherlands ~ Chilly but dry, some 32,000 visitors show up for this edition's bill which includes Jack Bruce, Nazareth, Kevin Coyne, Red White & Blue, Sailor, and Alan Stivell
May 19, 1972 ~ Pop singer, pianist Elton John releases Honky Château, the first of half a dozen albums to top the Billboard Hot 200 ~ Titled after the 18th century French chateau, Château d'Hérouville near Paris, where the album was recorded. The album gave John his second UK and USA top 10 hit with the lead single Rocket Man (I Think It's Going To Be A Long Long Time), which became a signature song. Critically, Honky Château earned and maintained universal acclaim. At the time of its release Rolling Stone hailed the album as one “that stands head and shoulders above the morass of current releases”, while retrospectively AllMusic characterized it as “the most focused and accomplished set of songs Elton John and Bernie Taupin ever wrote”
May 19, 1972 ~ Pop singer Jenny Berggren, full name Jenny Cecilia Berggren, born in Gothenburg, Sweden ~ Rose to fame as co-lead singer of eurodance, dance-pop act Ace Of Base, alongside Linn Bergren, her older sister. Berggren wrote or co-wrote several of the band's songs including Ravine, Wave Wet Sand and Experience Pearl. As a solo artist, Berggren scored a top 20 hit in her native Sweden with Here I Am, taken off My Story, Berggren's only solo album released in 2010
May 19, 1972 ~ José Alberto Iglesias, commonly known as rock singer, guitarist Tanguito, passed away in Buenos Aires, Argentina ~ Leading Buenos Aires underground countercultural figure by the late 1960s. Helped birth Argentine rock. Reportedly co-wrote Los Gatos' La Balsa hit. Struggled with amphetamine addiction and the law, received electroshock therapy and was declared legally insane and imprisoned by early 1972 before escaping and losing his life under the San Martin train. His sole sole album, Tango, would be released posthumously and is regarded as one of the most important albums in Argentine rock ~ Iglesias was born in 1945
May 19, 1971 ~ Producer, songwriter Peter Boström, also known under the moniker Bassflow, born ~ Internationally best known for co-writing Loreen's Euphoria with Thomas Gustafsson, the 2012 Eurovision Songfestival winner for Denmark. The same year another entry co-written by Boström, Norway's Tooji with Stay, also made the final but would end in last place with only 7 points. Other artists who recorded his songs include Bosson, Basic Element, Petrus, E-Type, Ola Svensson, Martin Stenmarck, Carola, Charlotte Perrelli, Lovestoned, Marie Serneholt, Alcazar, Eric Saade, Danny Saucedo, Camilla Brinck, and Daze
May 19, 1970 ~ Alternative rock, britpop drummer Stuart Cable, full name Stuart James Cable, born in Aberdare, UK ~ Co-founding member of the Stereophonics, remaining with the band through 2003. Present on most of the band's best known including UK top 10 hits such as The Bartender And The Thief, Just Looking, Pick A Part That's New, Handbags And Gladrags, and Maybe Tomorrow ~ Cable passed away in 2010
May 19, 1969 ~ Tenor saxophonist Coleman Hawkins, full name Coleman Randolph Hawkins, passed away in New York, New York, USA ~ Leader and sideman. The first to tailor his method of improvisation to the saxophone rathern than imitate the techniques of the clarinet. Major influence on players such as Chu Berry, Charlie Barnet, Tex Beneke, Ben Webster, Vido Musso, Herschel Evans, Buddy Tate, Don Byas, and others. Worked with Kenny Burrell, Benny Carter, Buck Clayton, Eddie Lockjaw Davis, Dizzy Gillespie, Tiny Grimes, Fletcher Henderson, Abbey Lincoln, Shelly Manne, Thelonious Monk, Django Reinhardt, Max Roach, Ben Webster, Randy Weston, and others ~ hawkins was born in 1904
May 19, 1969 ~ Rock band the Who release Tommy, the band's fourth studio album ~ Pete Townshend's attempt at translating the teachings of spiritual leader Meher Baba to music, at the time it would be hailed as a masterpiece and the Who's breakthrough. Over time, critical acclaim has somewhat diminished but Tommy is still considered a landmark in rock, and is especially acknowledged as one of the first rock operas. It would be developed into other media, including numerous stage productions, an orchestral version by Lou Reizner, a 1975 film with all band members and appearances from Elton John, Tina Turner, and Eric Clapton, and a Broadway musical. The original double album would sell over 20 million copies
May 19, 1968 ~ Bassist, film, TV director Jesse Peretz born in Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA ~ Founding member of alternative rock band the Lemonheads, leaving shortly before the release of their 1992 breakthrough It's A Shame About Ray album. After his amical departure Peretz would go on to direct for TV and film as well as music videos, including several for his former band and artists such as Jack Black, Nada Surf and the Breeders. Won a Grammy Award directing the Learn To Fly music video for the Foo Fighters
May 19, 1968 ~ Electronica, techno singer, guitarist, keyboardist Paul Hartnoll born in Dartford, UK ~ Formed electronic dance duo Orbital with his brother Phil Hartnoll, known for UK top 20 hits such as The Box, Satan Live, The Saint and Style. Hartnoll has also recorded as a solo artist, starting with the album The Ideal Condition released in 2007, and worked with Haunted House
May 19, 1967 ~ Alessia Quilni, commonly known as eurodance, dance-pop, house singer Alexia, born in La Spezia, Italy ~ Sang backing vocals for Ice MC, notably on the hit Think About The Way. As a solo artist known for a number of Italian top 10 hits, with 1997's Uh La La La also reaching top 10 in several other countries
May 19, 1967 ~ Bebop, hard bop pianist Elmo Hope, full name St Elmo Sylvester Hope, passed away in New York, New York, USA ~ Leader and sideman. Somewhat overlooked pianist due to the subtlety of his playing, strongly influenced by classical music and techniques, in an era focused primarily focused on virtuosity. Influence on contemporaries Bud Powell and Thelonious Monk, both of whom he also collaborated with. Best known for his 1956 Informal Jazz album featuring Donald Byrd, John Coltrane, Hank Mobley, Paul Chambers and Philly Joe Jones ~ Hope was born in 1923
May 19, 1967 ~ Guitarist Michael Lee Firkins born in Omaha, Nebraska, USA ~ Draws from bluegrass, country, blues, jazz, rock. Noted for his high-speed fingerpicking. Influenced by Jerry Reed, Chet Atkins, Danny Gatton. Debuted in 1990 with the eponymous Michael Lee Firkins album and has recorded to a devoted fanbase since
May 19, 1962 ~ Guitarist Iain Harvie, full name Iain Wallace Harvie, born in Glasgow, UK ~ Besides bassist, lead singer Justin Currie the only other constant member of Del Amitri. The band enjoyed popularity across Europe, scoring a string of 1990s hits including Nothing Ever Happens, Spit In The Rain, Always The Last To Know, Driving With The Brakes On, Not Where It's At, and Don't Come Home Too Soon. The single Roll To Me of their 1995 Twisted album would also reach top 10 on the American Billboard Hot 100 chart. Harvie has also served as producer for the likes of Eileen Rose and the Maccabees
May 19, 1962 ~ Singer Marilyn Monroe sings Happy Birthday Mr President for John F Kennedy ~ Less than three months before her death Monroe sings Happy Birthday Mr President at a fundraiser and early birthday celebration for President John F Kennedy's 45th birthday. It would be one of her most famous public performances. Monroe's sultry performance would fuel speculation of a secret affair between the two and lead to relentless tabloid reports with lies and doctored photos of the pair
May 19, 1961 ~ Andrew Stammers, commonly known as punk rock, post-punk bassist, singer Stan Stammers, born in Saffrom, UK ~ Turned down an offer to join the UK Subs, preferring to join Theatre Of Hate instead. The short-lived band would be best known for their Westworld album produced by the Clash's Mick Jones, its Westworld title track reaching the top 40. Following the band's disbandement in 1983 formed Spear of Destiny. Has also worked with the Straps, Crazy Pink Revolvers, and the Plastic Eaters
May 19, 1960 ~ Singer Annette Funicello performs at Radio City Music Hall, New York, New York ~ Teen idol Funicello performs at Radio City Music Hall, missing her own high school graduation party. Funicello began her career in her early teens, performing on the original Mickey Mouse Club TV show since age 12. As a recording artist she scored a number of late 1950s to early 1960 Billboard Hot 100 top 10 hits including Tall Paul, O Dio Mio and Pineapple Princess
May 19, 1960 ~ R&B group the Drifters record Save The Last Dance For Me ~ Written by Doc Pomus and Mort Shuman. Produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller. It has been said a young Phil Spector has aided on the recording, though if true the level of his involvement is unclear. Lead vocals by Ben E King, who had departed the group by the time of its release, with backing from Bucky Pizzarelli, Allen Hanlon, Lloyd Trotman and Gary Chester. Initially intended as a B-side it would reach top of the all-genre Billboard Hot 100 and become one of the band's best known, later covered by numerous artists including Jerry Lee Lewis, Paul Anka, Ike & Tina Turner, Randy Meisner, and Emmylou Harris
May 19, 1957 ~ Rock, folk rock singer, guitarist, pianist James Reyne, full name James Michael Nugent Reyne, born in Lagos, Nigeria ~ Co-founding and constant member of the Australian Crawl, known for songs such as Downhearted, Things Don't Seem and perhaps their best known Reckless (Don't Be So), the latter reaching top of the charts in their native Australia in 1983. Has also recorded as a solo artist, noted for the top 10 hits Fall Of Rome and Hammerhead both taken of his 1987 eponymous James Reyne debut album, and with the short-lived early 1990s pop rock unit the Company Of Strangers
May 19, 1954 ~ John Webb McMurry, commonly known as rock & roll singer, guitarist, actor Webb Wilder, born in Hattlesburg, Mississippi, USA ~ Fuses rock & roll with the Ventures-surf and Duane Eddy-twang. The character “Webb Wilder” was first created for a 1981 short comedy film about a private investigator who fell out of the 1950s and happened to also be a musician. The name stuck and McMurry has been recording consistently since the 1980s
May 19, 1953 ~ Country singers Ferlin Husky and Jean Shepard record A Dear John Letter at Capitol Recording Studio, Hollywood, California ~ Written by Billy Barton, Fuzzy Owen and Lewis Talley. Recorded as a duet with Shepard singing and Husky speaking his part. Released the following July it would reach No.1 on the Billboard Country charts, making Shepard, then 19, the youngest female to top the country charts. She would hold the record for nearly two decades, until a 14 year old Tanya Tucker broke the record with What's Your Mother's Name
May 19, 1953 ~ Blues, blues-rock singer, guitarist, songwriter Jimmy Thackery born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA ~ Longtime and co-founding member of blues, roots rock band the Nighthawks, leaving the band in 1986 to focus on his solo career. Over two dozen albums to his name, starting with 1985's Sideways In Paradise with frequent collaborator John Mooney. Has also worked with Tom Principato, David Raitt, Tab Benoit, Cate Brothers, and others
May 19, 1951 ~ Music journalist, author Colin Irwin, full name Colin Lester Irwin, born in Chertsey, UK ~ Best known as journalist and editor for Melody Maker from the mid-1970s through the mid-1980s. Would go on to work as a music critic for the Guardian, Mojo, the Daily Telegraph, the Independent, and other publications. Has authored a number of books, including biographies of the Dire Straits, ABBA, and Leonard Cohen ~ Irwin passed away in 2022
May 19, 1951 ~ Drummer Gary McCracken born in Sarnia, Canada ~ Best known as member of rock outfit Max Webster from 1976 through 1981, with whom he recorded six albums. Co-wrote and sang lead on the band's 1979 A Million Vacations hit single. McCracken has also worked with Triumph, Wrabit, and Klaatu, and released his sole Audioscapes solo album in 2000
May 19, 1951 ~ Jeffrey Ross Hyman, commonly known as punk rock singer Joey Ramone, born in Forest Hills, New York, USA ~ Became a countercultural icon as frontman of 1970s punk rock band the Ramones, known for songs such as Blitzkrieg Bop, Sheena Is A Punk Rocker, Rockaway Beach and perhaps their best-known Rock 'n Roll High School ~ Hyman passed away in 2001
May 19, 1951 ~ Jazz, pop singer Patti Page records Mister & Mississippi ~ Written by Irving Gordon. Popularized by Page, whose version would peak at No.8 on the Billboards pop chart in 1951. Also recorded by Rex Allen, Eddy Arnold, Johnny Bond, Dennis Day, Johnny Desmond, and by Tennessee Ernie Ford. The popularity of the song would later prompt Gordon to write Delaware, containing even more puns on state names
May 19, 1950 ~ TV personality, actor, singer Ron Brandsteder, full name Ronald Brandsteder, born in Amsterdam, the Netherlands ~ Best known as a game show host and frequent comic partner of André van Duin. As a singer best known for duetting with Bonnie St Claire on the 1976 Dutch top 10 hit Dokter Bernard and for duetting with former Luv'-singer José Hoebee on the 1984 Leonard Cohen-cover So Long Marianne
May 19, 1949 ~ Joseph Michael Hill, commonly known as blues-rock, rock bassist, guitarist, singer Dusty Hill, born in Dallas, Texas, USA ~ Brother of guitarist Rocky Hill, his bandmate in American Blues. Would rise to fame as member of ZZ Top, known for songs such as La Grange, Tush, Arrested For Driving While Blind, Cheap Sunglasses, Gimme All Your Lovin', Legs, Rough Boy, Velcro Fly, and others ~ Hill passed away in 2021
May 19, 1949 ~ Rock, hard rock, proto-punk, progressive rock guitarist, bassist, singer, songwriter Larry Wallis born in UK ~ Best known as member of the Pink Fairies, notably present on the 1973 album Kings Of Oblivion for which Wallis wrote or co-wrote all songs. Briefly an early member of Motörhead during the mid-1970s, appearing on the 1975 album On Parole which would remain unreleased until 1979. Wallis has also worked with Shagrat, Blodwyn Pig, the Deviants, Steve Peregrin Took, UFO, Lee Brilleaux, and others. Has recorded sporadically as a solo artist and served as in-house producer for Stiff Records, working with artists such as Wreckless Eric (A Louder Silence), the Adverts, and Mick Farren ~ Wallis passed away in 2019
May 19, 1948 ~ Model, singer, actress Grace Jones, full name Grace Beverly Jones, born in Spanish Town, Jamaica ~ Influenced artists such as Annie Lennox, Lady Gaga, Rihanna, Roisin Murphy, Nile Rodgers. Emerged from the late 1970s New York disco scene, darling of the Studio 54 crowd as wel as of leading fashion houses. Would move to a new wave style by the early 1980s drawing from reggae, funk, post-punk, club, dance and pop. Best known for international hits such as La Vie En Rose, Pull Up To The Bumper, I've Seen That Face Before and Slave To The Rhythm
May 19, 1948 ~ Saxophonist Tom Scott, full name Thomas Wright Scott, born in Los Angeles, California, USA ~ Son of film, TV composer Nathan Scott. Well over a dozen albums as a leader or co-leader, starting with The Honeysuckle Breeze released in 1967. Despite his absence from either movie a co-founding member of the Blues Brothers, with whom he recorded five albums. Wrote the theme songs for the TV series Starsky & Hutch and The Streets Of San Francisco. In-demand session musician, notable credits include the sax solos on Wings' Listen To What The Man Said and Whitney Houston's Saving All My Love For You and the lyricon on Michael Jackson's Billie Jean. Has also appeared on albums by the likes of Jan & Dean, Otis Spann, Harry Nilsson, Joni Mitchell (For The Roses), Billy Preston, America, Ringo Starr (Ringo), Bonnie Raitt, Barbra Streisand, George Harrison (Dark Horse), Gregg Allman, Tom Waits (The Heart Of Saturday Night), Neil Diamond, Hall & Oates, Boz Scaggs (Silk Degrees), Steely Dan (Aja), Elvin Bishop, Rod Stewart (Blondes Have More Fun), the Muffins, Thijs van Leer, Randy Newman, Art Garfunkel (Fate For Breakfast), Captain & Tennille, Minnie Riperton, Dolly Parton, Blondie (Autoamerican), Al Jarreau, Pat Benatar, Dan Fogelberg, Lee Ritenour, Nona Hendryx, Toto, Pink Floyd, Joyride, Richard Marx, and Julio Iglesias
May 19, 1948 ~ Trevor Gordon Grunnill, commonly known as soft rock, baroque pop singer, guitarist, songwriter Trevor Gordon, born in Blackpool, UK ~ Formed the late 1960s duo the Marbles with Graham Bonnet, scoring a UK top 10 hit with Only One Woman penned by the Bee Gees-siblings Barry Gibb, Robin Gibb and Maurice Gibb ~ Grunnill passed away in 2013
May 19, 1947 ~ Rock bassist Steve Currie born in Grimsby, UK ~ Best known as member of T.Rex, joining in 1970 and remaining through 1976. Present on most of the band's best-known including Hot Love, Bang-a-gong (Get It On), Telegram Sam and Metal Guru ~ Currie passed away in 1981
May 19, 1946 ~ Producer Trevor Veitch born in Vancouver, Canada ~ First gained attention as co-founding member of 1960s outfit 3's A Crowd, helpful in introducing jazz and eastern music influences in folk rock. Assisted on several early Rush albums, notably the band's 1970 eponymous Rush debut and 1972's Merrimack County albums playing guitar, mandocello and mandolin. Worked with Laura Branigan, Donna Summer, Toni Basil, Patty Brard, and others during the 1980s
May 19, 1945 ~ Guitarist, singer, songwriter Pete Townshend, full name Peter Dennis Townshend, born in Chiswick, UK ~ Co-founding member, guitarist, co-lead singer for the Who, one of the most influential rock bands of the 1960s and 1970s with record sales exceeding 100 million copies. Well known songs include My Generation, Substitute, Pictures Of Lily, Pinball Wizard, and Won't Get Fooled Again. The band is especially acclaimed for their 1969 rock opera Tommy, and for the albums Who's Next and Quadrophenia. Townshend has also released about half a dozen albums as a solo artist, starting with Who Came First released in 1972, and collaborated with the likes ofd Ronnie Lane, David Gilmour, David Bowie, the Rolling Stones, Mick Jagger, and others
May 19, 1940 ~ Milton Sims Newbury Jr, commonly known as country, folk singer, songwriter Mickey Newbury born in Houston, Texas, USA ~ Revered by peers. Acclaimed for a number of late 1960s, early 1970s albums especially 1972's Frisco Mabel Joy which included An American Trilogy, a song later popularized by Elvis Presley ~ Newbury passed away in 2002
May 19, 1939 ~ Composer, keyboardist Richard Teitelbaum, full name Richard Lowe Teitelbaum, born ~ Pioneered brain-wave music. Known for his live electronic performances. Draws from worlds music using a variety of instruments. Co-founding member of Musica Elettronica Viva alongside Alvin Curran and Frederic Rzewski. Has also worked with Anthony Braxton, Andrew Cyrille, Leroy Jenkins, Steve Lacy, Alvin Lucier, and others ~ Teitelbaum passed away in 2020
May 19, 1939 ~ Cornelius Fortune, commonly known as saxophonist Sonny Fortune, born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA ~ Leader and sideman. Worked with Elvin Jones, Mongo Santamaria, Leon Thomas, McCoy Tyner, Miles Davis, Nat Adderley, Roy Brooks, Buddy Rich, George Benson, Rabih Abou Khalil, Roy Ayers, Oliver Nelson, Gary Bartz, Rashied Ali, Pharoah Sanders, Kenny Barron, Dizzy Gillespie, Alphonse Mouzon, Melvin Sparks, Leon Spencer, Mal Waldron, and others ~ Fortune passed away in 2018
May 19, 1938 ~ Jerry Marvin Stembridge, commonly known as Nashville-based guitarist, producer Chip Young, born in Atlanta, Georgia, USA ~ Session guitarist turned producer. Appeared on recordings by Neon Philharmonic, Eddy Arnold, Bobby Bare, JJ Cale, Guy Clark, Skeeter Davis, Waylon Jennings, George Jones, Kris Kristofferson, Jerry Lee Lewis, Charlie Louvin, Charlie McCoy, Ronnie Milsap, Willie Nelson, the Oak Ridge Boys, Dolly Parton (Jolene), Carl Perkins, Elvis Presley, Charley Pride, Leon Russell, Earl Scruggs, Nancy Sinatra, Tanya Tucker, Tony Joe White, Reba McEntire, Moe Bandy, and others. As a producer worked with Billy Swan, Mickey Newbury (I Came To Hear The Music), Joe Ely (Honky Tonk Masquerade), Gene Summer, Michael Martin Murphey, and others ~ Young passed away in 2014
May 19, 1935 ~ Bassist Cecil McBee born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA ~ Recorded a limited number of albums as a leader yet an in-demand sideman on hundreds of albums. First gained attention in the late 1950s backing Dinah Washington. Would go on to work with a host of jazz and R&B artists including Miles Davis, Sam Rivers, Jackie McLean, Wayne Shorter, Pharoah Sanders, Charles Lloyd, Yusef Lateef, Keith Jarrett, Freddie Hubbard, Woody Shaw, the Leaders, Alice Coltrane, Chico Freeman, Lonnie Liston Smith, McCoy Tyner, Elvin Jones, the Cookers, the Falkner-Evans Trio, 360 Degree Music Experience, and others
May 19, 1932 ~ Alma Angela Cohen, commonly known as traditional pop singer Alma Cogan, born in London, UK ~ Dubbed “the Girl with the Giggle in her Voice”, Cogan was the highest paid British female singer of her day. Known best for covers of popular American hits, especially those recorded by Rosemary Clooney, Teresa Brewer, Joni James and Dinah Shore. Would fall out of fashion by the 1960s, considered too square for the era. Well known songs include Bell Bottom Blues, Little Things Mean A Lot, I Can't Tell A Waltz From A Tango, and perhaps her best known Dreamboat, the latter topping the UK charts in in 1955 ~ Cohen passed away in 1966
May 19, 1786 ~ Composer, organist, violinist John Stanley, full name Charles John Stanley, passed away in London, UK ~ Organist with the Society Of The Inner Temple, a post he held from 1734 until his death over 50 years later. Succeeded William Boyce as Master Of The King's Band in 1779. As a composer wrote operas, cantatas, oratorios and instrumental music. Admired by composer George Frideric Handel who would regularly attend his performances ~ Stanley was born in 1712