September 2, 2023 ~ Walter Aptowitz, commonly known as composer, music critic, teacher Walter Arlen, passed away in Los Angeles, California, USA ~ Prolific composer specializing in voice and piano scores, with some 65 works to his name. Best known for tracking down other artists whose works were lost or forgotten due to the Nazi regime. Aptowitzer himself fled Europe, relocating to Chicago, after his parents department store was expropriated by the Nazis in the 1938 Kristallnacht. His father would die in a concentration camp, his mother committed suicide after a breakdown. Aptowitzer would form longtime friendships with other German and Austrian emigrées, including Igor Stravinsky, Darius Milhaud, and Heitor Villa-Lobos ~ Aptowitzer was born in 1920
September 2, 2022 ~ Angus Gaye, commonly known as reggae singer, drummer Drummie Zeb, passed away ~ Lead singer, co-founding and last remaining original member of Aswad, known best for their 1988 UK No.1 hit Don't Turn Around. Two subsequent singles, Give A Little Love and Shine, would also reach top 20 in the band's native UK ~ Gaye was born in 1959
September 2, 2021 ~ Singer Alemayehu Eshete passed away in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia ~ Dubbed “the Ethiopian Elvis Presley” active since the early 1960s. Best known for his hit single Seul. Founded the Alem-Girma Band with Girma Bèyènè. Would gain international exposure after appearing on Buda Musique's Ethiopiques set of compilations, leading to a 2008 tour of the United States with the Either/Orchestra ~ Eshete was born ca.1941
September 2, 2021 ~ Michail Theodorakis, commonly known as composer, activist Mikis Theodorakis, passed away in Athens, Greece ~ One of Greece's most acclaimed composers, having scored over 1,000 works. Has scored music for films such as Zorba The Greek which included Sirtaki, Z and Serpico. Wrote The Mauthausen Trilogy, one of the most revered musical pieces written about the Holocaust. Also active as a politician, known for his leftist ideas, and having served in several positions including MP and minister ~ Theodorakis was born in 1925
September 2, 2018 ~ Pianist Conway Savage passed away in Melbourne, Australia ~ Best known as keyboardist, organist, backing singer of Nick Cave's backing unit the Bad Seeds from 1990 onwards including on the quintessential Cave albums Murder Ballads, The Boatman's Call and on No More Shall We Part. Previously a member of the Happy Ophans, the Scrap Museum, and of country band the Feral Dinosaurs. Also worked with Kim Salmon, Dave Graney, David McComb, Spencer P Jones, Robert Forster, Martyn P Casey, Mick Harvey, Suzy Higgi, Charlie Owen, and others ~ Savage was born in 1960
September 2, 2018 ~ Guitarist, songwriter Frank Lee Sprague passed away ~ Wrote both songs and concert pieces, totalling over a 1,000 works including string quartet, symphonies, chamber music and opera. To pop audiences best known for his 2004 Merseybeat album, an album of rock & roll songs featuring guest appearances from Big Jay McNeely and the Knack's Doug Fieger. Also formed the rock & roll duo the Sprague Brothers with his brother Chris Sprague ~ Sprague was born in 1958
September 2, 2017 ~ Composer, electronic pioneer Halim El-Dabh, full name Halim Abdul Messieh El-Dabh, passed away ~ Early pioneer of electronic music, experimenting with sound manipulation, or musique concrete, as early as the 1940s incorporating everyday sounds, reverberation, echo chambers and voltage controls in works such as The Expression Of Zaar ~ El-Dabh was born in 1921
September 2, 2015 ~ Folk, pop singer, guitarist, songwriter Brianna Lea Pruett passed away in Sacramento, California, USA ~ Influenced by artists as diverse as Tom Waits, Roberta Flack, Doc Watson, Emmylou Harris, Carole King, Iron & Wine, Pavement, Woody Guthrie, Charles Mingus. Best known for her 2011 The Stars The Moon The Owl The Cougar And You album ~ Pruett was born in 1983
September 2, 2013 ~ Jaroslaw Smietana, commonly known as jazz guitarist, composer, bandleader Jarek Smietana, passed away in Krakow, Poland ~ Leader and sideman. Worked with Art Farmer, Freddie Hubbard, Eddie Henderson, Vladislav Sendecki, Joe Zawinul, Janusz Muniak, Gary Bartz, Carter Jefferson, Vince Mendoza, John Abercrombie, Hamiet Bluiett, Idris Muhammad, Ronnie Burrage, Harvie Swartz, Mike Stern, Jack Wilkins, Zbigniew Seifert, Cameron Brown, Andy McKee, Greg Brandy, David Gilmore, Nigel Kennedy, Didier Lockwood, Jerry Goodman, Eddie Henderson, John Abercrombie, John Purcell, and others ~ Smietana was born in 1951
September 2, 2012 ~ Jazz drummer, bandleader, composer Branislav Lala Kovacev passed away in Hvar, Croatia ~ Leader and sideman. Key figure in Balkan Ethno jazz, merging traditional Balkan folk with jazz. Best known for his ensembles the European Jazz Consensus, the International Jazz Consensus and the Lala Kovacev Group. Has also worked with Chick Corea, Hans Koller, Janusz Muniak, Zbigniew Seifert, Albert Mangelsdorff, Wolfgang Dauner, Alan Skidmore, Michal Urbaniak, Dusko Gojkovic, Benny Bailey, and others ~ Kovacev was born in 1939
September 2, 2008 ~ Jazz saxophonist, clarinetist Arne Domnérus passed away ~ Fixture on the European jazz scene during the 1950s and 1960s, and considered one of the prime Swedish bop saxophonists. As a leader especially acclaimed for albums such as 1950's Arne Domnérus And His Favourite Groups, andFragment released some three decades later. Closely associated with Rune Gustafsson, Bengt Hallberg, Harry Arnold, and Alice Babs. Domnérus has also guested on albums by Charlie Parker, Quincy Jones, Lars Gullin, James Moody, Ake Persson, Clifford Brown, Roy Haynes, Harry Arnold, Ernestine Anderson, Benny Golson, Jimmy Witherspoon, George Russell (New York Big Band), and Putte Wickman ~ Domnérus was born in 1924
September 2, 2006 ~ Free jazz, avant-garde jazz saxophonist, bandleader Dewey Redman, full name Walter Dewey Redman, passed away in Brooklyn, New York, USA ~ Father of saxophonist Joshua Redman. Leader and sideman. Worked with Ornette Coleman, Keith Jarrett, Paul Motian, Pat Metheny, Old And New Dreams, Jon Ballantyne, Ed Blackwell, Cameron Brown, Jane Bunnett, Don Cherry, Anthony Cox, the Liberation Music Orchestra, Leroy Jenkins, Roswell Rudd, Randy Weston, Michel Benita, and others ~ Redman was born in 1931
September 2, 2004 ~ Keyboardist Michael Connor passed away ~ Member of Pure Prairie League from 1972 until the band's initial disbandement in 1988, also joining the reformed League in 1998. The band is best known for Amie of their 1975 Bustin' Out album and the Billboard Hot 100 top 10 hit Let Me Love You Tonight featuring Vince Gill as lead vocalist of their 1980 Firin' Up album ~ Connor was born in 1949
September 2, 2003 ~ Rock guitarist, bassist, singer Bruce Waibel, full name Bruce Kenneth Waibel, passed away in Florida, USA ~ Started as a roadie for Gregg Allman before becoming a full band member, first on guitar, later bass guitar. Has also worked with the Marshall Tucker Band, Captain Beyond, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Derringer, and was a member of rock band Firehouse from 2000 to 2003, present on the album O2 ~ Waibel was born in 1958
September 2, 2001 ~ Saxophonist Jay Migliori passed away in Mission Viejo, California, USA ~ Best known as co-founding member of Supersax, a tribute band to Charlie Parker. In-demand sideman and session musician, active since the early 1950s. Present on albums by Woody Herman, Jimmy Witherspoon, Lou Rawls (Black And Blue), the Righteous Brothers, the Beach Boys (Pet Sounds), Richard Groove Holmes, Paul Revere & the Raiders, the Everly Brothers, Nat Adderley, Harry Nilsson, Loudon Wainwright III (Unrequited), Leonard Cohen, the Manhattan Transfer, and Frank Zappa ~ Migliori was born in 1930
September 2, 1989 ~ Antoni Zaslavski, commonly known as producer Zedd born in Kaiserlautern, Germany ~ First gained attention with the single Clarity, a Billboard top 10 single in 2012. Would released his debut album of the same, Clarity, later the same year. Would go on to score numerous hits working with artists such as Hayley Williams, Alessia Cara, Selena Gomez, Maren Morris, Grey, Ariana Grande, and others
September 2, 1988 ~ Twin sisters pianists Christina Naughton and Michelle Naughton born in Princeton, New Jersey, USA ~ Mentored by Joseph Kalichstein who once commented when the siblings play together they seem to have one mind and one body. As a duo the sister have worked with the Philadelphia Orchestra, the Houston Symphony, the Mahler Chamber Orchestra, the Royal Flemish Orchestra, and others. Especially acclaimed for their 2012 Piano Duets album
September 2, 1986 ~ Jazz bassist Billy Taylor, full name William Taylor Sr, passed away in Fairfax, Virginia, USA ~ Leader and sideman. Worked with Elmer Snowden, Willie Gant, Arthur Gibbs, Charlie Johnson, Duke Ellington, McKinney's Cotton Pickers, Fats Waller, Fletcher Henderson, Jelly Roll Morton, Cootie Williams, Johnny Hodges, Coleman Hawkins, Red Allen, Joe Sullivan, Raymond Scott, Barney Bigard, Benny Morton, Cozy Cole, Al Hibbler, and others ~ Taylor was born in 1906
September 2, 1983 ~ Marece Benjamin Richards, commonly known as rapper Rich Boy, born in Mobile, Alabama, USA ~ Best known for his 2006 Billboard Hot 100 top 10 single Throw Some D's, which would be included on his eponymous Rich Boy debut album released the following year. Richards continued to record well into the 2010s yet despite warm reception would be unable to repeat the success of his debut single
September 2, 1981 ~ Contemporary classical composer Tadeusz Baird passed away ~ Critically regarded as successor to Alban Berg, Gustav Mahler, and Karol Szymanowski. Deported to Germany as a forced laborer at age 16, imprisoned in a concentration camp by the Nazi regime after a failed escape. After returning to his native Poland would found Group 49 with Kazimierz Serocki and Jan Krenz, a trio known for their socialist realism. Would turn to serialism in the 1950s. Composed symphonies, chamber music, for film and theatre, yet best known known for his numerous vocal cycles inspired by poetry ~ Baird was born in 1928
September 2, 1980 ~ Drummer, songwriter Mark Giuliana born in Florham Park, New Jersey, USA ~ Leader and sideman. Leader of Beat Music, leader of Heernt. Also worked with Avishai Cohen, Brad Mehldau, David Bowie (Blackstar), Meshell Ndegeocello, Gretchen Parlato, Jason Lindner, Lionel Loueke, Dhafer Youssef, Tigran Hamasyan, Matisyahu, Phronesis, Matt Cameron, Tony Grey, Dave Douglas, Aaron Dugan, Janek Gwizdala, Dumpster Hunter, Donny McCaslin, Chris Morrissey, Brad Shepik, Daniel Zamir, the Young Astronauts Club, and others
September 2, 1978 ~ Jazz saxophonist, composer Jonas Kullhammar born in Nacka, Sweden ~ Regarded as one of Sweden's most foremost jazz musicians. Debuted as a solo artist with the Salut album in 2000. Credited as a sideman on reportedly over 150 records. Has worked with Carlos Garnett, Nicolai Dunger, the Fredrik Norén Band, the Tjorbörn Zetterberg Hot Five, Sonic Mechatronik Arkestra, Peanuts Hucko, Nino Ramsby, Goran Kajfes, Marcus Strickland, Eldkvarn, the Jupiter Trio, Mulatu Astatke, the Hives, Ted Curson, Chick Corea, Jason Moran, Rickie Lee Jones, Hegge, and others
September 2, 1976 ~ Indie folk, indie rock singer, keyboardist, guitarist, songwriter Tom Miller born ~ Lead singer, co-founding member and along with Brian Garth primary songwriter for alternative, indie outfit Black Camaro, with whom he recorded over half a dozen albums since its inception in 2001. Miller also provides the visual arts for the band's album art and concert posters
September 2, 1975 ~ Singer, songwriter Tony Thompson born in Waco, Texas ~ Best known as a member of Hi-Five best known for their eponymous debut, 1990's Hi-Five, which went platinum and spawned the hits I Like The Way (The Kissing Game), I Can't Wait Another Minute, and Just Another Girlfriend. Thompson released a sole solo album, Sensational, in 1995 ~ Thompson passed away in 2007
September 2, 1974 ~ Heavy metal drummer Felix Bohnke born ~ Member of power metal outfit Edguy, first appearing on the highly acclaimed 1999 Theater Of Salvation album. Member of Avantasia, initially sessioning and touring with the band in the early 2010s and a permanent member since 2016. Has also worked with Saints & Preachers, Taraxacum, and Khymera
September 2, 1967 ~ Heavy metal, rap metal, nu metal, hard rock drummer, percussionist Frank Fontserè, full name Frank Carles Fontserè, born in Denville, New Jersey, USA ~ Known for using drum triggers both in the studio and for each live performance. Member of rap metal group Stuck Mojo and of heavy metal group Fozzy, recording about half a dozen albums with each of the two. Has also worked with Agent Cooper, Duke, Soundevice, Love Said No, and Primer 55
September 2, 1966 ~ Clarinetist Darnell Howard passed away in San Francisco, California, USA ~ Worked with WC Handy, Charlie Elgar, James P Johnson, the Singing Syncopators, Carroll Dickerson, King Oliver, Erskine Tate, Dave Peyton, Jerome Carrington, Earl Hines, Fletcher Henderson, Coleman Hawkins, Doc Evans, Muggsy Spanier, Bob Scobey, Don Ewell, Elmer Snowden, Burt Bales, and others ~ Howard was born in 1895
September 2, 1964 ~ R&B singer Marvin Gaye releases his Baby Don't You Do It single ~ Written by Brian Holland, Lamont Dozier, and Eddie Holland Jr. Released as the second single off Gaye's How Sweet It Is To Be Loved By You album, it would reach top 30 Billboard Hot 100, top 20 Billboard R&B. In the early 1970s, both the Band and the Who would record notable live versions of the song. The former included a cover on their Rock Of Ages live album, the latter used theirs for the B-side of the Join Together single
September 2, 1963 ~ Jazz drummer, vibraphonist Sherrie Maricle, full name Sharon Lee Maricle, born in Buffalo, New York, USA ~ Leader and sidewoman. Well-known for her association with vibraphonist, percussionist Peter Appleyard. Also worked closely with John Mastroianni, notably on the albums Cookin' On All Burners and The Time Being. Co-founded all-female big band Diva. Present on albums by Maria Anadon, Maurice Hines, Ruby Braff, and Tommy Newsom
September 2, 1961 ~ Blues-rock, country singer, guitarist, songwriter Mark Selby, full name Mark Otis Selby, born in Enid, Oklahoma, USA ~ Influenced by Eric Clapton, Jimmy Page, Muddy Waters, and ZZ Top's Billy Gibbons. Released a number of solo rock, blues-rock albums, often working with producer Brent Maher. In-demand collaborator and session musician, present on recordings by Kenny Rogers, Johnny Reid, Keni Thomas, Jimmy Hall, Wynonna Judd, and his wife Tia Sillers. Co-wrote a number of songs for Kenny Wayne Shepherd, including Deja Voodoo, Blue On Black, Never Lookin' Back. Also wrote or co-wrote songs recorded by the Dixie Chicks, Sons Of The Desert, Tammy Cochran, and others ~ Selby passed away in 2017
September 2, 1961 ~ Double bassist, bandleader Rafael Muñoz, full name Rafel Muñoz Medina, passed away in Santurce, Puerto Rico ~ Enjoyed popularity with his orchestra from the late 1920s through his retirement in the 1950s, playing guaraches, congas, and boleros. Well-known songs include Sandunguera, El Hueso De Maria, La Conga Del 39, and Ojos Malvados. Muñoz also served as musical director for the 1934 film Romance Tropical, the first Puerto Rican movie with sound ~ Muñoz was born in 1900
September 2, 1960 ~ Rock, post-rock, punk rock singer, guitarist, keyboardist, songwriter Arnaldo Antunes born in São Paulo, Brazil ~ Co-founding member of rock band Titas, remaining with the band from 1982 through 1992. Has also worked with Marisa Monte, the Tribalistas, Carlinhos Brown, Tom Zé, João Donato, and Chico Buarque
September 2, 1960 ~ John Charles Hall, commonly known as performance poet, spoken word poet, art rock singer John S Hall, born in Brooklyn, New York, USA ~ Best known as frontman and constant member of avant-garde art rock outfit King Missile with whom he recorded over half a dozen albums. The band is acclaimed for the albums They and Happy Hour, and is best known for their 1992 Detachable Penis single
September 2, 1960 ~ Singer Ruth Jacott born in Paramaribo, Suriname ~ Represented the Netherlands at the 1993 Eurovision Songfestival with the song Vrede, reaching 6th place. Would release her eponymous solo album, Ruth Jacott, shortly afterwards. Has worked with Paul de Leeuw (Blijf Bij Mij), Gerard Joling, René Froger, Oscar Harris, Humphrey Campbell, Fluitsma & Van Tijn, the Toppers, Edsilia Rombley, and others
September 2, 1959 ~ Singer Esther Oosterbeek, full name Esther Rosita Oosterbeek, born in Haarlem, the Netherlands ~ Best known as member of pop girl group the Dolly Dots. The band would score numerous top 10 hits in the Netherlands, starting in the late 1970s, including Tell It All About Boys, Hela-do-ladi-do, STOP, Do You Wanna Wanna, She's A Liar, Dreaming Of You, and What A Night. After the band disbanded Oosterbeek would semi-retire from an active music career, working as a fashion adviser, designer and make-up artist for other musicians
September 2, 1959 ~ Jazz drummer Masaaki Hiyama born ~ Worked with Guitarist Creek, Casiopea, Hidehiko Matsumoto, Henri Kenno, Mikio Masuda, and others-
September 2, 1959 ~ Drummer Paul Deakin born in Miami, Florida, USA ~ Member of country, country rock outfit the Mavericks, with whom he recorded about a dozen albums starting with their eponymous The Mavericks debut album released in 1990. The band is best known for the singles O What A Thrill, There Goes My Heart, and All You Ever Do Is Bring Me Down featuring Flaco Jiménez, all of which reached top 20 Billboard Country
September 2, 1958 ~ Singer Connie Francis records Fallin' at Metropolitan Studio, New York, New York ~ Written by Neil Sedaka and Howard Greenfield. Produced by Morton Craft who also conducted. Released later the same year as a single, b/w Happy Days And Lonely Nights, it would reach top 30 on the pop charts, top 20 in the UK
September 2, 1958 ~ Pop keyboardist, singer, songwriter Fritz McIntyre born in Birmingham, UK ~ Co-founding member, keyboardist of Simply Red from 1985 through 1995, leaving the band after the completion of the Life album. Co-wrote a vast amount of the band's material, sang lead on Wonderland. Has recorded as a solo artist since leaving the band, including the Christian worship album First Fruits, but would fail to reach the same level of succes ~ McIntyre passed away in 2021
September 2, 1958 ~ Alternative rock, jangle pop drummer Jerry Augustyniak, full name Jerome Stanley Augustyniak, born in Sloan, New York, USA ~ Member of 10,000 Maniacs, with whom he recorded over half a dozen albums. The band is known for songs such as What's The Matter Here, Trouble Me, Eat For Two, These Are Days, and Candy Everybody Wants
September 2, 1958 ~ Pianist, accordionist Radoslav Lorkovic born in Zagreb, Croatia ~ Revered solo artist, member of the original line-up of the Lost Gonzo Band and an in-demand collaborator. Worked with Odetta, Jimmy Lafave, Shawn Mullins, Greg Brown, Richard Shindell, Ellis Paul, Susan Werner, Ronny Cox, Andy White, Bo Ramsey, and others
September 2, 1957 ~ J-pop, pop, disco singer Keiko Masuda, also known as Kei, born ~ Formed the duo Pink Lady with childhood friend Mitsuyo Nemoto. The duo would enjoy popularity in their native Japan during the second half of the 1970s, scoring hits such as SOS, Nagisa No Sindbad, Wanted (Shimei Tehao), Southpaw, Monster, and Chameleon Army. Their 1979 single Kiss In The Dark would also reach top 40 on the American Billboard Hot 100
September 2, 1957 ~ Keyboardist, singer, songwriter Steve Porcaro, full name Steven Maxwell Porcaro, born in Hartford, Connecticut, USA ~ Brother of drummer Jeff Porcaro and bassist Mike Porcaro, both bandmates in Toto. The band's song Rosanna was inspired by Porcaro's then-girlfriend actress Rosanna Arquette. In-demand session musician for a wide range of artists, present on albums by Bette Midler, the Brothers Johnson, the Alessi Brothers, the Pointer Sisters, Leo Sayer, Earth Wind & Fire (I Am), Michael Jackson (Off The Wall), Boz Scaggs, Herb Alpert, Donna Summer, James Ingram, Al Jarreau (Jarreau), Don Henley (Building The Perfect Beast), Chaka Khan, Kenny Loggins, and Ry Cooder
September 2, 1956 ~ William G Evans, commonly known as bluegrass banjo player Bill Evans, born in Norfolk, Virginia, USA ~ Worked with Cloud Valley, Dry Branch Fire Squad, Due West, Bluegrass Intentions, Fletcher Bright, Alan Munde, Kathy Kallick, Chad Manning, Jim Nunally, Tony Trischka, and Jody Stecher
September 2, 1956 ~ Singer Elvis Presley records Too Much at Radio Recorders, Hollywood, California ~ Written by Lee Rosenberg and Bernard Weinman. Released, paired with Playing For Keeps on the flip side, the following January
September 2, 1956 ~ Wayne Pedziwiatr, commonly known as pop, rock, jazz, fusion bassist Wayne Pedzwater, born in New York, New York, USA ~ Briefly a member of Blood Sweat & Tears in the early 1980s. Would go on to session for artists such as Thom Rotella, José José, Tom Chapin (Billy The Squid), Chuck Loeb, Michael Jackson, John Forster (Helium), Jewel, and Vaneese Thomas ~ Pedziwiatr passed away in 2005
September 2, 1955 ~ Americana, folk, alternative country singer, guitarist, songwriter Malcolm Holcombe, full name Malcolm Brank Holcombe, born in Weaverville, North Carolina, USA ~ Over a dozen albums to his name, including the criminally overlooked A Hundred Lies released in 1996. Known for his moody poetry, country blues guitar, and distintive rumbling baritone voice. Though Holcombe has never achieved mainstream success, he was revered by peers and critics, drawing comparison to the likes of John Prine and Tom Waits. Holcombe enjoyed a cult following, artists such as Emmylou Harris, Lucinda Williams, Steve Earle, and Iris DeMent among his fans, and has opened for Merle Haggard and Wilco. Upon hearing of his death, revered singer, songwriter Mary Gauthier commented: “He was a genius. A channel. A giver. A master, a maestro, one of my greatest teachers, saintly in spirit, and truly touched by God and the angels” ~ Holcombe passed away in 2024
September 2, 1954 ~ Jazz guitarist Steve Masakowski born ~ Leader and sideman. Father of bassist Martin Masakowski and singer Sasha Maskowski. Worked with Johnny Adams, Mose Allison, Dave Liebman, Ellis Marsalis Jr, Carl Fontana, Rick Margitza, Bobby McFerrin, Nicholas Payton, Dianne Reeves, Sam Rivers, Woody Shaw, Alvin Tyler, Bennie Wallace, the Astral Project, Randy Brecker, Tom Harrell, Art Baron, Larry Sieberth, James Singleton, Brian Blade, Earl Tubinton, Jason Marsalis, Damon Short, Harry Sheppard, Tony Dagradi, Denise Mangiardi, Johnny Vidacovich, Harold Battiste, Dr John, Mary Jane Ewing, Kaya Martinez, Clarence Johnson III, Irvin Mayfield, and others
September 2, 1953 ~ Saxophonist, composer John Zorn born in New York, New York, USA ~ Eclectic saxophonist with over two dozen albums to his name as a solo artist or leader. Led Naked City, Masada, and the Bar Kokhba Sextet. Has also worked with Eugene Chadbourne, Joe Piscopo, the Golden Palominos, Peter Brötzmann, Violent Femmes, Steve Beresford, Bill Frisell, Fred Frith, Pain Killer, and Jim Staley. Has served as producer for the likes of Scott Johnson, the New Klezmer Trio, Mr Bungle, Anthony Coleman, the Boredoms, Fushitsusha, Peter Garland, and Marc Ribot
September 2, 1951 ~ Violinist, violist Mik Kaminski born ~ Member of the Electric Light Orchestra from 1973 through 1979, present on some of the band's best-known albums including Eldorado, Face The Music, and A New World Record. In later years Kaminski worked with spin-off groups ELO Part II and the Orchestra. Kaminski also fronted Violinski, considered a one-hit wonder for their 1979 single Clog Dance
September 2, 1950 ~ Krautrock, electronic, experimental rock, new age guitar, keyboardist Michael Rother born in Hamburg, West Germany ~ Co-founded Neu with drummer Klaus Dinger, best known for their acclaimed Neu 75 album. Formed Harmonia with Hans-Joachim Roedelius and Dieter Moebius. As a solo artist Rother is especially acclaimed for his 1977 Flammende Herzen album. Has also worked with Cluster, Moonshake, Kraftwerk, and Brian Eno
September 2, 1949 ~ Albertus Westelaken, commonly known as singer Albert West, born in Den Bosch, the Netherlands ~ Fronted the Shuffles from 1963 to 1973. Went on to a successful career as mainstream pop singer, sporting a warm voice ~ Westelaken passed away in 2015
September 2, 1948 ~ R&B, gospel, folk, pop singer, percussionist, songwriter Linda Tillery, full name Linda Joyce Tillery, born in San Francisco, California, USA ~ Active since her teens, starting with rock band the Loading Zone. Debuted as a solo artist with the album Sweet Linda Devine released in 1970. Regarded as a pioneer in women's music, and an in-demand collaborator for the likes of June Millington, Deidre McCalla, Barbara Higbie, Holly Near, and Margie Adam. Has also sung backup for Santana, Bobby McFerrin, Huey Lewis & the News, and the Turtle Island String Quartet
September 2, 1946 ~ Drummer, lyricist, author Aldir Blanc, full nme Aldir Blanc Mendes, born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil ~ Former psychiatrist would eventually quit medical practice to focus on music. Best known for his association with singer, songwriter João Bosco. Others who have recorded his songs include Elis Regina, Guinga, Milton Nascimento, and notably Nana Caymmi who recorded his Resposta Ao Tempo ~ Mendes passed away in 2020
September 2, 1946 ~ Keyboardist, organist, singer, songwriter Billy Preston, full name William Everett Preston, born in Houston, Texas, USA ~ As a solo artist known for songs such as That's The Way God Planned It, Outa-space, Will It Go Round In Circles, Space Race, Nothing From Nothing, and With You I'm Born Again, the latter a duet with Syreeta Wright. As a session and touring musician Preston has worked with Little Richard, Sam Cooke, Ray Charles, James Cleveland, the Beatles, George Harrison, Sly Stone, Eric Clapton, the Rolling Stones, and the Red Hot Chili Peppers ~ Preston passed away in 2006
September 2, 1945 ~ Guitarist, keyboardist, drummer, horn player, saxophonist, producer, arranger Marty Grebb, full name Marty Joseph Grebb, born in Chicago, Illinois, USA ~ Member of the Buckinghams. Also worked with Peter Cetera, Bill Payne, Bonnie Raitt, Eric Clapton, Etta James, the Exceptions, Leon Russell, Dick Campbell, Lovecraft, Olivia Newton-John, Bernie Taupin, Joe Vitale, the Knack, Maria Muldaur, JJ Cale, Alien Ant Farm, and others
September 2, 1944 ~ Pianist, composer, arranger Pablo Ziegler born in Argentina ~ Worked with artists such as Astor Piazzolla, Milva, Plácido Domingo, Gary Burton, the Buenos Aires Philharmonic, Emanuel Ax, Regina Carter, Branford Marsalis, Paquito d'Rivera, Kenny Garrett, Stefon Harris, Joe Lovano, Christopher O'Riley, Quique Sinesi, Walter Castro, Nestor Torres, Joe Locke, Randy Brecker, David Sánchez, Miguel Zenon, the Orpheus Chamber Orchestra, het Metropole Orkest, the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, the Royal Philharmonic, Denyce Graves, Julio Botti, and others
September 2, 1943 ~ Pop rock songwriter Dorde Novkovic born in Vladimirci, Serbia ~ Father of singer Boris Novkovic. One of the most prolific Croatian songwriters with over an estimated 2500 songs to his name. First gained attention in the late 1960s when Miso Kovac scored a hit with Vise Se Neces Vratiti. Others who have recorded songs written by Novkovic include Neda Ukraden, Tomislav Ivcic, Gabi Novak, and Zanamari Percic ~ Novkovic passed away in 2007
September 2, 1943 ~ Soul, R&B singer Joe Simon born in Simmesport, Louisiana, USA ~ Member of gospel outfit the Golden West Singers. Dubbed “the mouth of the South” for his distinctive voice, critically compared to Otis Redding and Jackie Wilson. As a solo artist known for a two decade career, charting with R&B singles such as The Chokin' Kind, The Power Of Love and perhaps his best-known Get Down Get Down Get On The Floor. Was backed by Sly Stone and Larry Graham on his first major hit My Adorable One ~ Simon passed away in 2021
September 2, 1943 ~ Singer Rosalind Ashford born in Detroit, Michigan, USA ~ Original member of Martha & the Vandellas. Also worked with the Del-fi's, later renamed to Vels, known among soul afficionados for a number of uncharted 1960s singles such as Camel Walk and There He Is At My Door, but best-known as backing singers for Marvin Gaye on songs such as Stubborn Kind Of Fellow
September 2, 1940 ~ Horst Nussbaum, commonly known as pop, schlager, disco singer, producer, songwriter Jack White born in Cologne, Germany ~ Best known for his association with several 1980s, 1990 artists, serving as producer, songwriter for the likes of Laura Branigan (Control), Engelbert Humperdinck, Jermaine Jackson & Pia Zadora (When The Rain Begins To Fall), David Hasselhoff, Barry Manilow, Hazell Dean, and Audrey Landers
September 2, 1940 ~ Jazz pianist Mick Pyne born in Thornton Dale, UK ~ Younger brother of trombonist Chris Pyne. Worked with John Stevens, Phil Seamen, Tubby Hayes, Stan Getz, Rahsaan Roland Kirk, Lee Konitz, Hank Mobley, Joe Williams, Ronnie Scott, Humphrey Lyttelton, John Eardley, Cecil Payne, Georgie Fame, Adelaide Hall, Keith Smith, Charlie Watts, and others ~ Pyne passed away in 1995
September 2, 1939 ~ Robert Dickey, singer, commonly known as Bobby Purify born away in Tallahassee, Florida, USA ~ Best known as half of vocal duo James & Bobby Purify, the other being his cousin James Purify, known for songs such as I'm Your Puppet, Let Love Come Between Us, Shake A Tail Feather, and others. Dickey would retire from music in the early 1970s for health reasons. James would initially continue to perform as a solo singer, and team up with singer Ben Moore in the mid-1970s using the old James & Bobby monniker ~ Dickey passed away in 2011
September 2, 1938 ~ Singer Jimmy Clanton born in Cut Offs, Louisiana, USA ~ One of the few white singers to come out of the late 1950s New Orleans R&B, rock & roll soung. Best known for Just A Dream, a milion-seller and a 1958 American top 10 hit released under the moniker Jimmy Clanton & his Rockets. Also known for Go Jimmy Go, Venus In Blue Jeans, Don't Look At Me and Because I Do
September 2, 1938 ~ Reizo Nakanishi, commonly known as novelist, songwriter Rei Nakanishi, born in Mudanjiang, Japan ~ One of the premier Japanese songwriters of the post-World War II period. Best known for penning Kyou De Owakare for Sugawara Yoichi, and Kita Sakaba for Takashi Hosokawa. Others who recorded his songs include Jun Mayuzumi, the Peanuts, Chiyoko Shimakura, Mieko Hirota, Mina Aoe, Yukiji Asaoka, and Hideki Saijo ~ Nakanishi passed away in 2020
September 2, 1936 ~ Composer David Blake born in London, UK ~ Wrote operas, chamber orchestra and orchestral works, most notably the three-act opera Toussaint first performed by the English National Opera in 1977
September 2, 1935 ~ Folk singer Liam Clancy was born in Carrick-on-Suir, Ireland ~ Youngest member of sibling outfit the Clancy Brothers, regarded as Ireland's first pop stars. Sang lead on Brothers songs such as The Leaving Of Liverpool, The Wild Rover, The Shoals Of Herring, Port Lairge, Juice Of The Barley, The Patriot Game, Gallant Forty Twa and Peggy Gordon. Duetted with Tommy Makem in Makem & Clancy, known for their 1976 hit single And The Band Played Waltzing Matilda ~ Clancy passed away in 2009
September 2, 1934 ~ Jazz clarinetist Alcide Nunez, full name Alcide Patrick Nunez, passed away in New Orleans, Louisiana, USA ~ One of the first New Orleans jazz musicians to make recordings. Declared the world's greatest jazz clarinetist by Pee Wee Russell. Worked with Papa Jack Laine, the Original Dixieland Jazz Band, Nick LaRocca, Bert Kelly, the Louisiana Five, and Harry Yerkes ~ Nunez was born in 1884
September 2, 1934 ~ Ruggerio Eugenio di Rodolfo Colombo, commonly known as baritone singer, violinist, songwriter, actor Russ Columbo, passed away in Los Angeles, California, USA ~ Known for songs such as Prisoner Of Love, Too Beautiful For Words and perhaps his best known You Call It Madness But I Call It Love ~ Columbo was born in 1908
September 2, 1933 ~ R&B, doo-wop singer Richard Lewis born ~ Tenor singer for doo-wop outfit the Silhouettes, known best for their 1957 hit Get A Job. Originally issued as the B-side to I Am Lonely, the A-side re-release would go on to sell a million copies and be the group's only hit, topping both the pop and R&B charts ~ Lewis passed away in 2005
September 2, 1932 ~ Emilio Joseph Radocchia, commonly known as jazz, classical, rock vibraphonist Emil Richards, born in Hartford, Connecticut, USA ~ Leader and sideman. Influenced by Lionel Hampton. Active since the early 1950s, beginning his career in music working with artists such as Toshiko Akiyoshi, Charles Mingus, Ed Thigpen and appearing on recordings by Perry Como, Ray Charles, Mitchell Ayres. Played bongos on the original version of the Mission Impossible theme composed and performed by Lalo Schifrin. Would continue to work well into the 2010s, notable collaborations including Frank Capp, Paul Horn, Louie Bellson, Quincy Jones, Henry Mancini, George Shearing, Maria Muldaur, George Harrison, Frank Zappa, Marvin Gaye (Let's Get It On), Herb Alpert, the Bee Gees (Saturday Night Fever), Ry Cooder, Donovan, Blondie (Autoamerican), Tom Waits, Queen Latifah, Gregory Porter, and Josh Groban ~ Radocchia passed away in 2019
September 2, 1932 ~ Hard bop, bebop pianist Walter Davis Jr born in Richmond, Virginia, USA ~ Leader and sideman. Worked with Babs Gonzales, Max Roach, Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie, Donald Byrd, Art Blakey, Sonny Rollins, Kenny Clarke, Sonny Criss, Jackie McLean, Pierre Michelot, Archie Shepp, Nick Brignola, Slide Hampton, Etta Jones, Charlie Rouse, Art Taylor, Hank Mobley, Philly Joe Jones, and others ~ Davis passed away in 1990
September 2, 1931 ~ Clifford Laconia Jordan, commonly known as tenor saxophonist Clifford Jordan, born in Chicago, Illinois, USA ~ Blues-infused be-bop saxophonist. Well over two dozen albums to his name as a leader, starting in the mid-1950s. Especially acclaimed for Blowing In From Chicago released in 1957 and In The World released in 1969. Along with Eric Dolphy backed Charles Mingus on his 1964 European tour. As a sideman Jordan appears on albums by Johnny Griffin (A Blowin' Session), Sonny Clark, Lee Morgan, JJ Johnson, Max Roach, Art Blakey, Pony Poindexter (Pony's Express), Charles McPherson, Joe Zawinul, Cedar Walton (The Electic Boogaloo Song), Hugh Lawson, Dizzy Reece (Manhattan Project), Mal Waldron, and Carmen McRae ~ Jordan passed away in 1993
September 2, 1931 ~ Producer Dr George Butler born in Charlotte, North Carolina, USA ~ Spearheaded Blue Note's transition into commercial mainstream during the 1970s. Signed and launched the careers of Wynton Marsalis, Harry Connick Jr, and Nnenna Freelon. By the late 1970s Butler would move on over to Columbia Records, accepting the position of Vice President, where he helped persuade Miles Davis to return to recording and proved pivotal to the careers of fusion and soul-jazz acts such as Bob James, Billy Cobham, and Grover Washington Jr. Produced or co-produced albums by acts such as Horace Silver, Grant Green, Elvin Jones, Donald Byrd (Black Byrd), Shirley Bassey, Ronnie Foster (The Two-Headed Freap), Alphonse Mouzon (Mind Transplant), Bobby Hutcherson, Moacir Santos, Jimmy Witherspoon, Earl Klugh (Earl Klugh), Noel Pointer, Maynard Ferguson, Rodney Franklin, Max Roach (M'Boom), and Freddie Hubbard ~ Butler passed away in 2008
September 2, 1928 ~ Jazz, hard bop pianist Horace Silver, full name Horace Ward Martin Tavares Silver, born in Norwalk, Connecticut, USA ~ Hard bop pioneer. Influenced by Nat King Cole, Thelonious Monk, Bud Powell, Art Tatum, and Teddy Wilson. Critically acclaimed for a number of 1960s albums, especially Song For My Father and Serenade To A Soul Sister. Known for recordings such as Doodlin', Peace, and Sister Sadie. In-demand sideman, present on albums by Clifford Brown, JJ Johnson, Art Blakey, Miles Davis (Miles Davis Quartet), Kenny Dorham (Afro-Cuban), Art Farmer, Milt Jackson, JR Monterose (JR Monterose), Gerry Mulligan, Ray Charles, Tina Brooks (Minor Move), Wes Montgomery, and Gigi Gryce ~ Silver passed away in 2014
September 2, 1917 ~ Pianist, conductor, film composer Armando Trovaioli born ~ Best known as a prolific film composer with over 300 credits to his name, including for Anna scoring the international hit El Negro Zumbon. Also wrote the music for a number of musicals, notably 1962's Rugantino and 1974's Aggiungi Un Post A Tavola ~ Trovajoli passed away in 2013
September 2, 1915 ~ Jazz bassist Grachan Moncur II born ~ Father of Grachan Moncur III. Half-brother of saxophonist Al Cooper. Member of the Savoy Sultans ~ Moncur passed away in 1996
September 2, 1914 ~ Lawrence Laury, commonly known as boogie-woogie, blues, gospel, jazz pianist, singer Booker T Laury, born in Memphis, Tennessee, USA ~ Influenced by Roosevelt Sykes, Sunnyland Slim, and Speckled Red. Although Laury performed for most of his adult life, playing clubs and coffeehouses in Tennessee, Arkansas, and Missouri, often working with Mose Vinson and lifelong friend Memphis Slim, Laury did not release his Nothing But The Blues solo debut album until well into his sixties ~ Laury passed away in 1995
September 2, 1901 ~ Filipino Napoli, commonly known as jazz trumpeter, bandleader Phil Napoleon, born in Boston, Massachusetts, USA ~ First performed on-stage at age 5. Co-founded the Original Memphis Five with pianist Frank Signorelli, known for their 1927 hit Clarinet Marmelade. Has also worked with the Cotton Pickers, the Charleston Chasers, Leona Williams, Alberta Hunter, and with Jimmy Dorsey ~ Napoli passed away in 1990
September 2, 1896 ~ Edith Goodall, commonly known as vaudeville, blues singer Edith Wilson, born in Louisville, Kentucky, USA ~ Worked with Johnny Dunn, Fletcher Henderson, Florence Mills, Hot Chocolates, Louis Armstrong, Fats Waller, Bill Robinson, Duke Ellington, Alberta Hunter, Cab Calloway, Noble Sissle, Eubie Blake, Little Brother Montgomery, Terry Waldo, and others ~ Goodall passed away in 1981