December 13, 2022 ~ Ayub Bey, commonly known as hip-hop rapper, MC, producer, songwriter Grand Daddy IU, passed away ~ Closely associated with the Juice Crew. Ghostwriter for Biz Markie and Roxanne Shanté. Has released a number of solo albums, starting with Smooth Assassin in 1990. Has worked with Das EFX, Heltah Skeltah, KRS One, Ice-T, Tupac Shakur, and others ~ Bey was born in 1968
December 13, 2022 ~ Blues rock guitarist, singer Kim Simmonds passed away ~ Frontman of Savoy Brown, which he co-founded with blues harpist John O'Leary. With heavy promotion and excessive touring the band would find success in America. Best known for their early albums, 1968's Getting To The Point, 1969's Blue Matter and 1970's Looking In considered landmark albums ~ Simmonds was born in 1947
December 13, 2022 ~ Ubaldo Rodriguez Santos, commonly known as salsa singer Lalo Rodríguez, passed away in Carolina, Puerto Rico ~ Over half a dozen albums to his name. Best known for his 1988 hit Ven Devórame Otra Vez. Has previously worked with Eddie Palmieri, including on the Grammy Award-winning The Sun Of Latin Music album. Has also worked with Eddie Santiago, José Alberto El Canario, Frankie Ruiz, and others ~ Rodríguez was born in 1958
December 13, 2021 ~ Soul, R&B singer Joe Simon passed away ~ 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 was born in 1943
December 13, 2021 ~ Punk rock guitarist John Nolan passed away ~ Member of Behind The Magnolia. Member of Bored, present on the band's debut album Negative Waves and its follow-up Take It Out On You album. Left the band in 1991 along with Tim Hemensley to form the Powder Monkeys, releasing the albums Smashed On A Knee, Time Wounds All Heels and Lost City Blues before disbanding in the early 2000s ~ Nolan was born ca.1966
December 13, 2020 ~ Pauline Anna Strom, commonly known as keyboardist, electronic composer the Trans-Milennia Consort, passed away ~ Released her eponymous The Trans-Millenia Consort debut album in 1982. Strom said she translated visual ideas into sound, mapping an inner world of imagined pasts, possible futures and alternate realities. Retired from music by the late 1980s to focus on building a spiritual healing practice. A collection of shelved tapes would be bundled into the 2017 Trans-Millenia Music album, rekindling interest in her music. Strom was working on new material at the time of her unexpected death, the project posthumously released as Angel Tears In Sunlight in 2021 ~ Strom was born in 1946
December 13, 2019 ~ Trumpeter, cornetist, conductor Bram Gay, full name Bramwell Clifford Gay, passed away in France ~ Joined the Foden's Band at age 13. Would go on to work with the Royal Opera House starting in the early 1970s, serving as its orchestra director from 1974 through 1995 ~ Gay was born in 1930
December 13, 2019 ~ Emilio Joseph Radocchia, commonly known as jazz, classical, rock vibraphonist Emil Richards, passed away ~ 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 was born in 1932
December 13, 2019 ~ Rock, garage rock, proto-punk singer, guitarist Roy Loney passed away ~ Influential on punk and power-pop. Original lead singer of the Flamin' Groovies, remaining with the band from 1965 through 1971. Present on the band's first three critically acclaimed albums, namely Supersnazz, Flamingo and Teenage Head ~ Loney was born in 1946
December 13, 2018 ~ Singer Nancy Wilson passed away in Pioneertown, California, USA ~ Recorded over 70 albums. Best known for her recordings of You Don't Know How Glad I Am and Guess Who I Saw Today. Worked with Hank Jones, the Great Jazz Trio, the Griffith Park Band, Chick Corea, Joe Henderson, Ramsey Lewis, Barry Manilow (co-produced Wilson's With My Lover Beside Me album), and others ~ Wilson was born in 1937
December 13, 2017 ~ Warrel George Baker, commonly known as reavy metal, progressive metal, thrash metal, power metal singer Warrel Dane, passed away in São Paulo, Brazil ~ Classically trained. Infuenced by Ronnie James Dio, Rob Halford, George Strait and Bruce Dickinson. Best known as lead singer of Sanctuary and Nevermore. Has also worked with Serpent's Knight, Sanctuary, Behemoth, Shaded Enmity. Released his sole Praises To The War Machine solo album in 2008 and was working on a second album at the time of his death ~ Baker was born in 1961
December 13, 2016 ~ Elizabeth Taylor Pecanins, commonly known as singer, songwriter Betsy Pecanins, passed away ~ Dubbed “the Queen of Blues” in Mexico. Over a dozen albums to her name, starting with Viendo Tus Ojos released in 1980. Her style would be described as “unique,” by rock violinist Papa John Creach, who added “you must have black blood hidden in your body.” Her music has been used in films such as La Reina De La Noche, Hasta Morir, and Asesino En Serio ~ Pecanins was born ca.1954
December 13, 2016 ~ Country-soul singer Sundance Head wins NBC's The Voice ~ Sundance Head wins the 11th season of NBC's talent show The Voice, runner-up would be country singer Billy Gilman
December 13, 2015 ~ Singer Louisa Johnson wins The X-Factor UK ~ Johnson wins the 12th edition of British talent show The X-Factor. Runner-ups would be the duo Reggie 'n Bollie in 2nd place, singer Che Chesterman in 3rd
December 13, 2015 ~ Producer, songwriter Luigi Creatore passed away in Boca Raton, Florida, USA ~ Son of bandleader Giuseppe Creatore. Half of producer, songwriter team Hugo & Luigi, the other half being Hugo Peretti. Worked with artists such as Valerie Carr, Jimmie Rodgers, Perry Como, Sam Cooke, Ray Peterson, the Tokens, Elvis Presley (Can't Help Falling In Love), the Stylistics, the Softones, and others ~ Creatore was born in 1921
December 13, 2009 ~ Singer, songwriter Joe McElderry wins The X-Factor UK ~ McElderry wins the 6th edition of British talent show The X-Factor. Runner-ups would be singer, songwriter Olly Murs in 2nd place, singer Stacey Solomon in 3rd
December 13, 2008 ~ Singer Alexandra Burke wins The X-Factor UK ~ Burke wins the 5th edition of British talent show The X-Factor. Runner-ups would be pop, R&B group JLS in 2nd place, singer Eoghan Quigg in third
December 13, 2006 ~ John William Henderson, commonly known as blues guitarist, slide guitarist Homesick James, passed away in Springfield, Missouri, USA ~ Claimed to be the older cousin of Elmore James, to have bought James his first guitar, and to have taught him how to play slide guitar. Present on pivotal James recordings including Dust My Broom, The Sky Is Crying, and Roll & Tumble. Also said to have worked with Yank Rachell, Sleepy John Estes, Blind Boy Fuller, Sonny Boy Williamson II, and Big Joe Williams. As a solo artist known for songs such as Lonesome Ole Train and Homesick, the latter giving him his nickname ~ Henderson was born in 1910
December 13, 2003 ~ Singer, actress Maisy Stella, full name Maisy Jude Marion Stella, born in Oshawa, Canada ~ Rose to fame appearing on the musical drama series Nashville alongside her sister Lennon Stella. During their time on the show the siblings also formed the duo Lennon & Maisy, performing mostly country covers. Released a solo single, Riding Free, in 2017 for the soundtrack of the animated series Spirit Riding Free
December 13, 2003 ~ Jazz trumpeter, cornetist Webster Young passed away in Vancouver, Washington, USA ~ Leader and sideman. Known for his lyrical style. Has worked with John Coltrane, Dexter Gordon, Hampton Hawes, Jackie McLean, Ike Turner, Lester Young, Bud Powell, Paul Quinichette, Joe Puma, Mal Waldron, Ed Thigpen, Earl May, Ray Draper, and others ~ Young was born in 1932
December 13, 2002 ~ Folk rock, rock & roll guitarist Zal Yanovsky passed away in Kingston, Canada ~ One of the first rock & roll performers to wear a cowboy hat, a trend followed by Sonny Bono, Johnny Rivers, David Crosby. Teamed with Denny Doherty in the Halifax Three, the duo later joining Cass Elliott in the Mugwumps. Doherty and Elliot would go on to reach fame in the Mamas & the Papas, Yanovsky would reach fame co-founding Lovin' Spoonful with John Sebastian, scoring the Billboard Hot 100 top 10 hits Do You Believe In Magic, You Didn't Have To Be So Nice, Daydream, Did You Ever Have To Make Up Your Mind, Summer In The City, Rain On The Roof, and Nashville Cats ~ Yanovsky was born in 1944
December 13, 2001 ~ Charles Michael Schuldiner, commonly known as heavy metal, hard rock singer, guitarist, songwriter Chuck Schuldiner, passed away in Altamonte Springs, Florida, USA ~ Sometimes referred to as “the Godfather of Death Metal”. Best known as guitarist, lead singer of metal outfit Death from the band's inception in 1983 until his death in 2001 ~ Schuldiner was born in 1967
December 13, 1996 ~ Edith Mae Stith, commonly known as jazz, blues, show tunes singer, dancer Mae Barnes, passed away in New York, New York, USA ~ Introduced the Charleston dance to Broadway in the 1924 Runnin' Wild musical. Would go on to become a successful nightclub singer. Has released a number of albums in the 1950s ~ Stith was born ca.1907
December 13, 1989 ~ Singer, songwriter Taylor Swift born in Wyomissing, Pennsylvania, USA ~ Active since her mid-teens, starting in country and country-pop and over time ventured into pop, rock, synth-pop, alternative pop-rock. Would become one of all-time best-selling artists reportedly selling over 200 million records worldwide. Debuted in 2006 with the eponymous Taylor Swift debut album. Known for songs such as Teardrops On My Guitar, Love Story, You Belong With Me, Fearless, Today Was A Fairytale, Mine, We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together, I Knew You Were Trouble, Red, Shake It Off, Blank Space, Bad Blood featuring Kendrick Lamar, I Don't Wanna Live Forever with Zayn Malik, Me, Cardigan, and Willow
December 13, 1984 ~ Jazz double bassist Bill Pemberton, full name William McLane Pemberton, passed away in New York, New York, USA ~ Played violin as a child before switching to bass at age 18. Worked steadily as a valued accompaniest for over 40 years, rarely soloing himself. First gained attention as member of Frankie Newton's ensemble in the early to mid 1940s, subsequently backing musicians such as Herman Chittison, Mercer Ellington, Eddie Barefield, and Billy Kyle through the end of the decade. In later years worked with George Wein, Little Willie John (Fever), Johnny Mathis, Ivory Joe Hunter, Eddie Lockjaw Davis, Earl Hines, Vic Dickenson (Gentleman Of The Trombone), Sammy Price, Panama Francis, Bill Coleman, and Doc Cheatham (The Fabulous) ~ Pemberton was born in 1918
December 13, 1983 ~ Javid David Alvarez Fernandez, commonly known as reggeaton singer J-Alvarez, born in Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico ~ Best known for singles such as Junto Al Amanecer, La Opregunta and Esa Boquita
December 13, 1983 ~ Alternative metal, post-grunge, alternative rock bassist, keyboardist, guitarist Matt Deis, full name Matthew Christopher Deis, born in Peterborough, New Hampshire, USA ~ Best known as member of CKY from 2005 through 2010, and again from 2015 through 2019. Has also worked with metalcore outfit All That Remains from 2003 through 2005, notably present on the This Darkened Heart album. Has also worked with GWAR, Slipknot, As I Lay Dying, Killswitch Engage. Served as touring bassist for husband and wife country duo Thompson Square in 2021
December 13, 1981 ~ Amy Lynn Hartzler, commonly known as singer, songwriter Amy Lee, born in Riverside, California, USA ~ Lead singer, co-founding member of Evanescence, known for songs such as Bring Me To Life, My Immortal, Call Me When Your Sober. Has also collaborated with Korn, Seether, and David Hodges
December 13, 1981 ~ Sena Verdi, commonly known as singer, producer, songwriter Lyonheart, born in Tehran, Iran ~ Influenced by the Smashing Pumpkins, Oasis, the Stone Roses, Radiohead, U2. Also known under the moniker Senadee. Has worked in a variety of roles with hip-hop, R&B, pop and dance artists including Akala, BT, Paul Oakenfold, Chicane, Ben Gold, Matt Hardwick, RALE, Ørjan Nilsen, Dave Winnel, and others
December 13, 1979 ~ Alternative rock, electronic, pop singer, guitarist, keyboardist, bassist, songwriter Luke Steele born in Perth, Australia ~ Influenced by a wide array of artists including Cole Porter, the Cure, John Lennon, Brian Wilson, Carole King, and Kool & the Gang. Best known as lead singer and primary songwriter of alternative rock band Sleepy Jackson, best known for God Lead Your Soul of their 2006 Personality (One Was A Spider One Was A Bird) sophomore album. Forms the duo Empire Of The Sun with Pnau's Nick Littlemore. Formed DREAMS with Silverchair's Daniel Johns, releasing their No One Defeats Us debut album in 2018. Co-wrote and co-produced Rather Die Young of Beyoncé's 2011 4 album.
December 13, 1979 ~ Opera, popera, classical crossover singer Matthew Stiff born in Grimsby, UK ~ Member of classical boy band G4 through 2007, runner up in the 2004 edition of the talent contest The X-Factor. The band is known for doing classically styled versions of popular pop songs. The single Bohemian Rhapsody taken of their 2005 eponymous G4 debut album would reach the UK top 10
December 13, 1978 ~ Post-rock, avant-garde, dream pop cellist, singer, composer, film composer Rebecca Foon born in Vancouver, Canada ~ Noted as a member of modern chamber ensemble Esmerine and as a solo artist, recording both under her own name and the moniker Saltland earning critical acclaim for her 2013 I Thought It Was Us But It Was All Of Us album featuring backing from Sarah Neufeld, Colin Stetson and Arcade Fire's Richard Reed Parry. Has also worked with Thee Silver Mt Zion Memorial Orchestra, Set Fire To Flames, Fifths Of Seven, HRSTA, the Mile End Ladies String Auxiliary, and others
December 13, 1977 ~ Lucas Boyd, commonly known as rapper, producer Classified, born in Enfield, Canada ~ Released his full-length debut album, Time's Up Kid, in 1995. Best known for the singles Oh Canada and Inner Ninja featuring David Myles. Both reached the Canadian top 20, respectively in 2009 and 2012
December 13, 1977 ~ Power metal, contemporary classical, progressive rock, jazz fusion bassist, composer Lauri Porra born in Helsinki, Finland ~ Married to conductor Dalia Stasevska. To metal audiences best known for his work with bands such as Sinergy, Warmen, Almah, and perhaps most notably Stratovarius. Renowned solo artist with several instrumental albums to his name, starting with the eponymous Lauri Porra album released in 2005. Performs live with both the Lauri Porra Flyover Ensemble for his own work and with Bach Reimagined project, reworking Johann Sebastian Bach's cello suites for electric bass, cello and electronics. Had his orchestral work performed by renowned classical orchestras such as the Finnish Radio Orchestra, the Trondheim Symphony Orchestra, the New Bedford Symphony. Also noted as a film composer and in-demand session musician appearing on numerous records from contemporary classical to electronic and from pop to hip-hop
December 13, 1975 ~ Rock, hard rock, power pop singer, guitarist, songwriter Robert Pehrsson born ~ Active since the late 1980s, initially playing death and thrash metal and over time toning down to hard rock and power pop. Has worked with acts such as Death Breath, Dundertåget, Imperial State Electric, Masticator, Runemagick, and others. Released his Long Way To The Light solo debut album in 2016, noted for songs such as Haunt My Mind and Can't Change
December 13, 1974 ~ Guitarist Nick McCarthy, full name Nicholas John McCarthy, born in Blackpool, UK ~ Original member of Franz Ferdinand, remaining with the band until 2016 when he was replaced by Dino Bardot. Present on hits such as Take Me Out, Do You Want To, Ulysses, No You Girls, and others
December 13, 1972 ~ Death metal, heavy metal singer, bassist Matti Kärki born in Sweden ~ Best known as member of Dismember. pioneer of Swedish death metal and considered one of “the Big Four” alongside Entombed, Grave and Unleashed. Has also worked with Carnage, Therion, Murder Squad, Carbonized, General Surgery, and others
December 13, 1971 ~ Harry Lawrence Hill, commonly known as bandleader, singer Tiny Hill, passed away ~ Billed as “America's Biggest Bandleader” because of his weight of over 365 lb. Enjoyed popularity from the 1930 through the early 1950s, touring extensively. Best known for his signature song Angry, released in 1939, and his 1951 rendition of the Western swing song Hot Rod Race, which reach top 10 on the Billboard Country charts, top 30 on the pop charts. With its hard driving boogie woogie beat, the latter is sometimes referred to as one of the first rock & roll songs. Hill was married three times, his second marriage to country singer Jenny Lou Carson, with whom he also worked. By the the end of the big band era Hill had settled in Colorado, performing regionally with smaller combos, and on occasion returning to the Midwest for guest appearances ~ Hill was born in 1906
December 13, 1967 ~ Bobby Ervin, commonly known as hip-hop DJ, producer DJ Bobcat, born in Los Angeles, California, USA ~ Member of Uncle Jamm's Army. Has worled with Russell Simmons, Rick Rubin, Lyor Cohen, Steve Rifkind, Madonna, Guy Oseary, Jermaine Dupri. Has written, produced for LL Cool J, Ice Cube, Mack 10, Tupac Shakur, MC Ren, Sir Mix-a-lot, Nas, King T, Candyman, Yo-Yo, and others
December 13, 1967 ~ Eric Marion Bishop, commonly known as singer, songwriter, actor Jamie Foxx, born in Terrell, Texas, USA ~ Rose to fame portraying Ray Charles in the 2004 biographical movie Ray, earning him numerous awards including an Academy Award for Best Actor. As a singer known for a number of high-profile collaborations such as with Twista on Slow Jamz and with Kanye West on Gold Digger, both of which topped the Billboard Hot 100, and a number of commercially successful and critically acclaimed albums starting with 2005's Unpredictable
December 13, 1966 ~ Rock guitarist, singer Jimi Hendrix records Foxy Lady at CBS, London, UK ~ Written by Hendrix. Produced by Chas Chandler. Included on the band's 1967 Are You Experienced debut album. Also released in America as a single in the fall of 1967, one month before the release of the band's Axis (Bold As Love) sophomore album
December 13, 1966 ~ Bassist, guitarist, pianist John Munson born ~ Member of Trip Shakespeare from 1985 until the band folded around 1992. Would subsequently found Pleasure with bandmate Dan Wilson and Jacob Schlichter, the band soon renamed to Semisonic and best known for the single Closing Time of their 1998 Feeling Strangely Fine sophomore album
December 13, 1966 ~ Lawrence Mullins, commonly known as rock percussionist, keyboardist, producer Toby Dammit, born in Knoxville, Tennessee, USA ~ Best known as drummer for Iggy Pop, backing Iggy from 1990 to 2000 present on the albums American Caesar, Naughty Little Doggie and Avenue B. Has also worked with Swans, Angels Of Light, the Residents, Stephan Eicher, Nick Cave's backing unit the Bad Seeds, the Panther Burns, and others
December 13, 1965 ~ Hard rock, heavy metal singer Michael Jagosz, full name Michael Theodore Jagosz, born in Los Angeles, California, USA ~ Influenced by Ronnie James Dio, Ian Gillan, Rob Halford. Original lead singer, co-founding member of the LA Guns, present on the band's 1985 Collector's Edition No.1 debut EP. After the band folded in 1985 Jagosz has worked with Abattoir, Eden, and with Stoneheart ~ Jagosz passed away in 2014
December 13, 1964 ~ Hideto Matsumoto, commonly known as alternative rock singer, guitarist, bassist, songwriter Hide, born in Yokosuka, Japan ~ Member of Saver Tiger, known for songs such as Dead Angle and Emergency Express. Rose to fame as member of X-Japan joining the band in 1987, a band credited with pioneering visual kei. Wrote or co-wrote songs such as Celebration, Joker and Scars. After the band disbanded in 1997 Matsumoto would focus on his solo career and co-found the international supergroup Zilch. By the time of his death by suicide at age 33 Matsumoto was considered an icon, representative of rebellion against a conformist society, and his death marked as the end of an era ~ Matsumoto passed away in 1998
December 13, 1964 ~ Judge Kenneth Peterson, commonly known as guitarist, keyboardist, singer Lucky Peterson, born in Buffalo, New York, USA ~ Comtemporary blues singer, drawing from soul, R&B, gospel, rock & roll and other idioms. Has backed artists such as Etta James, Bobby Blue Bland, Little Milton. Best known for a number of well-received late 1980s, 1990s albums, notably Lucky Strikes, I'm Ready and Beyond Cool ~ Peterson passed away in 2020
December 13, 1963 ~ Singer, guitarist, songwriter, actor Stan Jones, full name Stanley Davis Jones, passed away in Los Angeles, California, USA ~ Perhaps best remembered for penning and first recording Ghost Riders In The Sky, covered by over 50 artists including the Outlaws, Bing Crosby, Marty Robbins, Johnny Cash, Eddy Arnold, Gene Autry, the Sons Of The Pioneers, Elvis Presley and Dick Dale ~ Jones was born in 1914
December 13, 1962 ~ Electric guitarist, singer, bandleader Caspar Brötzmann born in Wuppertal, West Germany ~ Son of saxophonist Peter Brötzmann. Has worked with Caspar Brötzmann Massaker, Pigface, Page Hamilton, and others
December 13, 1962 ~ Pianist, singer, songwriter Harry Barris passed away in Burbank, California, USA ~ One of the earliest to incorporate “scat singing” in his technique. Worked with Paul Ash, Paul Whiteman, the Rhythm Boys, Gus Arnheim, Bing Crosby, Joe E Brown, and others ~ Barris was born in 1905
December 13, 1962 ~ Singer John Wiggins born in Nashville, Tennessee, USA ~ Formed the sibling duo John & Audrey Wiggins with her brother John Wiggins. The duo recorded two albums, spawning a string of modest country hits in the mid-1990s including Falling Out Of Love, She's In The Bedroom Crying, Somewhere In Love and their best known Has Anybody Seen My Amy. John would go on to become a songwriter, his songs recorded by George Jones, Joe Nichols (Tequila Makes Her Clothes Fall Off), Randy Houser, and Ron Williams
December 13, 1961 ~ New wave, pop rock singer, songwriter Per Øystein Sørensen born in Oslo, Norway ~ Joined new wave band Fra Lippo Lippi in 1982, first appearing on the band's Small Mercies sophomore album. The band is best known for Shouldn't Have To Be Like That of their 1985 Songs. The band would cease recording in the early 1990s but resurged in 2000, finding rekindled popularity especially in Philippines. Sørensen released his Våge solo debut album in 2009
December 13, 1960 ~ Patricia Daniels, commonly known as house, R&B singer Adeva, born in Paterson, New Jersey, USA ~ Known for a string of late-1980s, early-1990s UK hits including Warning, I Thank You and Respect. In her native America best known for the dance hit It Should've Been Me released in 1991
December 13, 1960 ~ Guitarist, bassist, singer Trey Gunn born in San Antonio, Texas, USA ~ Best known as member of King Crimson from 1994 through 2003. Has also recorded as a solo artist and collaborated with Robert Fripp, Toyah, David Sylvian, Tool, Puscifer, Sean Malone, Gordian Knot, Vernon Reid, John Paul Jones, Matt Chamberlain, Bill Rieflin, Sunday All Over The World, UKZ, and others
December 13, 1959 ~ Bandleader, pianist Charlie Fess Johnson passed away in New York, New York, USA ~ Led the Paradise Ten, whose sidemen at one time or another included Jabbo Smith, Leonard Davis, Sidney De Paris, Thomas Morris, Charlie Irvis, Jimmy Harrison, Benny Carter, Edgar Sampson, and others ~ Johnson was born in 1891
December 13, 1959 ~ Jazz guitarist Staffan William-Olsson born in Gothenburg, Sweden ~ Member of Real Thing. Influenced by blues and rock such as Jimi Hendrix, Deep Purple and Led Zeppelin, as well as by jazz-rock artists such as George Benson, the Weather Report and John McLaughlin. Has worked with Bob Berg, Lee Konitz, Palle Mikkelborg, Terje Gewelt, the Bohuslän Big Band, Even Kruse Skatrud, Adam Nussbaum, and others
December 13, 1958 ~ Dana Strumwasser, commonly known as bassist Dana Strum, born in Washington DC, USA ~ Best known as bassist for Slaughter, co-founded with Vinnie Vincent Invasion bandmate Mark Slaughter. Also worked with Rod Falconer, Danny Spanos, Vince Neil, and others
December 13, 1958 ~ Blues guitarist, singer Lurrie Bell born in Chicago, Illinois, USA ~ Son of blues harpist Carey Bell. Lurrie worked with Eddy Clearwater, Big Walter Horton, Eddie Taylor, Koko Taylor, Eddie C Campbell, the Sons of Blues, Billy Branch, Freddie Dixon, and others
December 13, 1957 ~ Guitarist David Tronzo born in Rochester, New York, USA ~ Revered for his electric slide guitar technique. Noted for the Night In Amnesia album released in 1995, a collaborative effort with David Bowie-guitarist Reeves Gabrels. Member of Spanish Fly, Slow Poke, the Lounge Lizards, Club D'Elf, V16. Guested on recordings by David Sanborn, Marshall Crenshaw, John Zorn, John Cale, Curtis Stigers, Julian Dawson, Mike Mainieri, Heather Eatman, Janis Siegel, and others
December 13, 1957 ~ Jazz, jazz fusion, pop saxophonist Eric Marienthal born in Sacramento, California, USA ~ Worked with Al Hirt, Chuck Loeb, Gordon Goodwin, Russell Ferrante, Randy Brecker, and extensively with Chick Corea Electric Band
December 13, 1957 ~ Singer, songwriter, actor Morris Day born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA ~ Lead singer of the Time, best known for appearing in the Prince film Purple Rain. The band also included future famed R&B producers Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis. As a solo artist Day is best known a number of modestly successful mid to late 1980s singles, notably 1985's The Color Of Success and 1987's Daydreaming
December 13, 1956 ~ Arabic, classical, operatic soprano singer Majida El-Roumi, full name Majida El-Roumi Baradhy, born in Kfarshima, Lebanon ~ Daughter of singer, composer Halim El-Roumi. As a teen snuck out of the house to participate in the talent contest Studio El Fan, aired on Télé Liban. Her succes on the show softened her father, now allowing her to pursue a career in music on the condition she continued higher education. Majida released her debut single, Am Behlamak, in 1975. Her full-length debut album, Wadaa, followed the next year. After completing her studies in Arabic Literature she would focus on her music career, recording mostly to warm reception and gracing stages the world over
December 13, 1954 ~ Country singer, songwriter John Anderson born in Apopka, Florida, USA ~ Known for songs such as I've Got A Feelin' Somebody's Been Stealin', Wild And Blue, Swingin', Black Sheep, Straight Tequila Night, Money In The Bank, and others
December 13, 1954 ~ Writer, composer, lyricist Raymond Hubbell, full name John Raymond Hubbell, passed away ~ Perhaps best known for co-writing Poor Butterfly with John Golden. The song was inspired by the Giacomo Puccini-opera Madame Butterfly and written for the Broadway show The Big Show, in which it was introduced by Sophie Bernard. Over time it would be recorded by well over 300 artists, including early versions in the mid-1910s by Elizabeth Spencer and Edna Brown, as well as later versions by Paul Whiteman, Sarah Vaughan, Sonny Rollins, Tony Bennett, and Johnny Mathis ~ Hubbell was born in 1879
December 13, 1954 ~ Americana, folk, pop rock singer, guitarist, songwriter Steve Forbert, full name Samuel Stephen Forbert, born in Meridian, Mississippi, USA ~ One of many to once have been called “the new Bob Dylan”, a comparison which Forbert declined stating he was just a cliché back then. Best known for his 1979 Romeo's Tune, a Billboard top 20 hit. As a songwriter Forbert had his songs recorded by the likes of Rosanne Cash, Keith Urban, Marty Stuart, Webb Wilder. Had a cameo appearance in Cyndi Lauper's video for Girls Just Want To Have Fun, playing her boyfriend
December 13, 1952 ~ Contemporary classical composer Roger Bourland born in Evanston, Illinois, USA ~ Composed over 150 works, including operas, cantates, choral and chamber music as well as for TV and film soundtracks
December 13, 1951 ~ Rock, pop, blues rock, jazz, jazz fusion keyboardist, songwriter Mickie Yoshino born in Yokohama, Japan ~ Member of pioneering blues outfit the Golden Cups while in his teens, remaining with the band from 1967 through 1971. Subsequently formed Flesh & Blood while studying in America. Upon his return to Japan formed the pop group Godiego, considered influential in the 1970s pop scene and best known for the 1978 Monkey Magic. Yoshino has also worked with Terumasa Hino, EnTRANS, Kenji Hino, Masa Kohama, Kazumi Watanabe, and others
December 13, 1950 ~ Producer Don Dixon born in Lancaster, South Carolina, USA ~ Considered an important producer in the early 1980s jangle pop genre. Has worked with Chris Stamey, the Smithereens, Fetchin' Bones, Richard Barone, Guadalcanal Diary, Marshall Crenshaw, Dumptruck, Tommy Keene, Marti Jones, the Golden Palominos, Mary Chapin Carpenter, REM, James McMurtry, Kim Carnes, Hootie & the Blowfish, and others
December 13, 1949 ~ Country singer Randy Owen, full name Randy Yeuell Owen, born in Fort Payne, Alabama, USA ~ Rhythm guitarist, lead singer of Alabama, perhaps the most successful country band in history known for hits such as Love In The First Degree, Mountain Music, Dixieland Delight, She And I, Jukebox In My Mind, I'm In A Hurry And I Don't Know Why, and others
December 13, 1949 ~ Thomas Miller, commonly known as punk rock, art punk, post-punk singer, guitarist, songwriter Tom Verlaine, born in Denville, New Jersey, USA ~ Influenced by Stan Getz, Miles Davis, the Velvet Underground, the Rolling Stones. Formed the Neon Boys with Richard Hell and Billy Ficca, quickly disbanding after failing to attract a second guitarist despite auditions from both the Ramones' Dee Dee Ramone and Blondie's Chris Stein. Rose to fame as frontman of Television, their acclaimed 1977 Marquee Moon debut album considered one of the defining albums of the post-punk era. Has also recorded as a solo artist, starting with the eponymous Tom Verlaine album released in 1979. Notably collaborated with once-girlfriend Patti Smith including on her Horses debut album. Tapped to produce Jeff Buckley's second studio album, a project that never materialized due to Buckley's untimely death. Verlaine was also a member of supergroup the Million Dollar Bashers alongside Lee Ranaldo, Nels Cline, and John Medeski ~ Miller passed away in 2023
December 13, 1948 ~ Guitarist, keyboardist Jeff Baxter, full name Jeffrey Allen Baxter, born in Washington DC, USA ~ Co-founding member of Steely Dan, present on the albums Can't Buy A Thrill, Countdown To Ecstasy and Pretzel Logic. Member of the Doobie Brothers from 1974 through 1979 including on the Minute By Minute album which spawned the hit What A Fool Believes. Baxter would continue to work as an in-demand session musician, appearing on records by Willy DeVille, Bryan Adams, Eric Clapton, Sheryl Crow, Joni Mitchell, Carly Simon, Dolly Parton, Freddie Hubbard, Ringo Starr, Rod Stewart, Barbra Streisand, Donna Summer, and others. As a touring guitarist has backed the likes of Elton John, Linda Ronstadt, Billy Vera, James Brown, Maceo Parker, and others
December 13, 1948 ~ Guitarist Ted Nugent, full name Theodore Anthony Nugent, born in Detroit, Michigan, USA ~ Lead guitarist, ocassional lead singer of psychedelic rock, hard rock band the Amboy Dukes. Member of supergroup Damn Yankees, which also included Styx-singer Tommy Shaw, Night Ranger-bassist Jack Blades and then-future Lynyrd Skynyrd-drummer Michael Carellone. Has recorded extensively as a solo artist, establishing himself as a technically proficient guitarist, and best known for the Billboard Hot 100 top 30 single Cat Scratch Fever of his 1977 album of the same name. Over time would become a controversial figure known for his right-leaning politics including as a staunch supporter of the NRA and Donald Trump
December 13, 1946 ~ Rock, jazz fusion guitarist, songwriter, producer Radim Hladik born in Prague, Czechoslovakia ~ Regarded as a pioneer of electric blues-rock in Czechoslovakia, strongly influenced by Jimi Hendrix. Playing professionaly since age 15, staarting with rock group Komety. Would go on to join the Matadors. Co-founded Blue Effect with singer, guitarist Vladimir Misik, a band that moved from beat via R&B to jazz fusion and eventually progressive rock. The band is best known for the Hladik-penned instrumental Cajovna (Tearoom) of the 1975 Modry Efekt & Radim Hladek album ~ Hladik passed away in 2016
December 13, 1943 ~ Singer, songwriter David Buskin born in New York, New York, USA ~ Best known as a songwriter. Artists who have recorded his songs include Astrud Gilberto, Judy Collins, Peter Paul & Mary, Johnny Mathis, Shirley Bassey, Mary Travers (If I'm Lucky), Tom Rush, Roberta Flack, Dixie Carter, and Tracy Nelson, When I Need You Most Of All)
December 13, 1943 ~ Singer Jo Stafford records It Could Happen To You ~ First introduced by Dorothy Lamour in the musical film And The Angels Sing. Written by Jimmy van Heusen and Johnny Burke. Two versions would reach top 20 in 1944, Stafford's and Bing Crosby's. Over the years the song would be covered by Eydie Gormé, Julie London, Lena Horne, Peggy Lee, Frank Sinatra, Shirley Bassey, Dinah Washington, Barbra Streisand, and others
December 13, 1943 ~ Singer, actress Marti Webb born in Hampstead, UK ~ Appeared in minor roles in a number of musical productions since the early 1960s, including West End musicals, including Stop The World I Want To Get Off, Half A Sixpence, and Oliver. Played the lead and title role in a late 1970s production of Evita, taking over for Elaine Page. Best known for her 1980 Andrew Lloyd Webber/ Don Black-penned Tell Me On A Sunday album and one-woman show, which included the UK top 10 hit Take That Look Off Your Face. Would subsequently score with Ben and Always There and continue on the stage singing in musicals such as Cats, The King & I, Hot Flush, Blood Brothers, Oklahoma, and others
December 13, 1943 ~ Actor, director, singer, choreographer Maurice Hines, full name Maurice Robert Hines Jr, born in New York, New York, USA ~ Brother of dancer Gregory Hines, with whom he has also worked including as opening act for the likes of Lionel Hampton and Gypsy Rose Lee. Starting in the late 1970s Hines would appear in Broadway productions of Eubie, Bring Back Birdie, Sophisticated Ladies and Uptown (It's Hot), earning a Tony Award for the latter. Conceived, choreographed, and directed Hot Feet, a 2006 jukebox musical featuring the music of Earth Wind & Fire ~ Hines passed away in 2023
December 13, 1941 ~ Singer, actor John Davidson born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA ~ Best known as a TV personality and game show in the 1980s and 1990s. Had previously recorded a dozen albums, mostly consisting of covers of contemporary hit covers and some original material. Best known for his 1976 Everytime I Sing A Love Song single
December 13, 1940 ~ Jazz double bassist Reggie Johnson, full name Reginald Volney Johnson, born in Owensboro, Kentucky, USA ~ Worked with Bill Barron, Archie Shepp, Bill Dixon, Sun Ra, Burton Greene, Lonnie Liston Smith, Stanley Cowell, Bobby Hutcherson, Harold Land, Blue Mitchell, Walter Bishop Jr, Sonny Rollins, Sonny Stitt, Sarah Vaughan, Carmen McRae, Art Pepper, Kenny Burrell, Clark Terry, the Crusaders, Johnny Griffin, Horace Parlan, Monty Alexander, Kenny Barron, Cedar Walton, Alvin Queen, Clark Terry, and others ~ Johnson passed away in 2020
December 13, 1938 ~ Composer Alvin Curran born in Providence, Rhode Island, USA ~ Co-founded Musica Elettronica Viva with Frederic Rzewski and Richard Teitelbaum. As a composer often uses electronics and environmental found sounds and best known for works such as Endangered Species, Crystal Psalms, Living Room Music, large scale works such as Oh Brass On The Grass, sound installation pieces such as Magic Carpet and Gardening With John and especially the Inner Cities, the latter a growing series of solo piano pieces started in 1996 to form one of the longest non-repetitive piano pieces ever written
December 13, 1938 ~ Pop rock, soft rock, country producer Ron Haffkine born in New York, New York, USA ~ Best known as manager and producer for Dr Hook & the Medicine Show, the band name shortened to Dr Hook in 1975, for whom he produced songs such as Sylvia's Mother, The Cover Of The Rolling Stone, Sharing The Night Together, When You're In Love With A Beautiful Woman, and Sexy Eyes, all of which reached top 10 Billboard Hot 100 ~ Haffkine passed away in 2023
December 13, 1931 ~ Guitarist Wayne Bennett, full name Wayne Talmadge Bennett, born in Sulphur, Oklahoma, USA ~ Active since the 1950s, backing artists such as Amos Milburn, Otis Rush, Buddy Guy, Arbee Stidham, Jimmy Reed, and Elmore James early on in his career. Perhaps best known for his longtime association with Bobby Blue Bland, praised especially for his guitar playing on songs such as Stormy Monday and Wishing Well, serving as a model for younger guitarists including Eric Clapton. Bennett has also worked with Little Junior Parker, James Cotton, Ramsey Lewis, Tyrone Davis, and Jackie Wilson ~ Bennett passed away in 1992
December 13, 1930 ~ Jazz bassist Ben Tucker born in Tennessee, USA ~ Worked with Art Pepper, Billy Taylor, Quincy Jones, Grant Green, Dexter Gordon, Hank Crawford, Junior Mance, Herbie Mann, Dave Bailey, Victor Feldman, Larry Bunker, Bobby Thomas, Ray Crawford, Tommy Tedesco, Patato, Mose Allison, Kenny Burrell, Eddie Lockjaw Davis, Lou Donaldson, Teddy Edwards, Gil Evans, Chico Hamilton, Roland Hanna, Willis Jackson, Illinois Jacquet, Clifford Jordan, Yusef Lateef, Junior Mance, Warne Marsh, Pat Martino, James Moody, Gerry Mulligan, Mark Murphy, Oliver Nelson, Lalo Schifrin, Bola Sete, Jimmy Smith, Jeremy Steig, Sonny Stitt, and Harold Vick ~ Tucker passed away in 2013
December 13, 1930 ~ Country, bluegrass, gospel singer Buck White born in Oklahoma, USA ~ Formed the family outfit the Whites with daughter Sharon White and Cheryl White, known for 1980s Billboard Country top 10 hits such as You Put The Blue In Me, Hangin' Around, Give Me Back That Old Familiar Feeling and Pins And Needles
December 13, 1928 ~ Jazz, R&B guitarist Joe Messina, full name Joseph Lucian Messina, born in Detroit, Michigan, USA ~ Influenced by Charlie Parker, Les Paul and George Barnes. While a studio musician at ABC television, Messina accompanied artists such as Sonny Stitt, Charlie Parker, Stan Getz, Jack Teagarden, Lee Konitz, Jimmy Giuffre, Pepper Adams, Donald Byrd, Eddie Lockjaw Davis, Frank Rosolino, and Dizzy Gillespie. Recruited in the late 1950s by Berry Gordy Jr for Motown houseband the Funk Brothers. Appears on recordings by the Supremes (Someday We'll Be Together), the Temptations, Marvin Gaye, the Four Tops (I Can't Help Myself (Sugarpie Honey Bunch)), Stevie Wonder (For Once In My Life), the Miracles, and Martha & the Vandellas (Dancing In the Street) ~ Messina passed away in 2022
December 13, 1926 ~ Free jazz pianist Borah Bergman born in Brooklyn, New York, USA ~ Influenced by Earl Hines, Bud Powell, Lennie Tristano, and Ornette Coleman. Has worked with sidemen such as Evan Parker, Thomas Chapin, Andrew Cyrille, Roscoe Mitchell, Thomas Buckner, Joe McPhee, Wilber Morris, Rashied Ali, Hamid Drake, Ivo Perelman, Peter Brötzmann, Conny Bauer, John Zorn, and others ~ Bergman passed away in 2012
December 13, 1925 ~ Actor, comedian, singer Dick Van Dyke, full name Richard Wayne Van Dyke, born in West Plains, Missouri, USA ~ Started his career as entertainer on radio and TV, in nightclubs, on the theatrical stage. Starred in the 1961 Broadway production of Bye Bye Birdie earning him a Tony Award. Became a household name through his TV sitcom The Dick Van Dyke Show, aired on CBS from 1961 through 1966. Would go on to appear in numerous films, musical films and TV shows
December 13, 1912 ~ Singer, accordionist, songwriter Luiz Gonzaga, full name Luiz Gonzaga Do Nascimento Sr, born in Exu, Brazil ~ Regarded as one of the most important figures of the 20th century in Brazilian music. Credited as founder of the balão genre. Hailed as a “revolutionary” by Antônio Carlos Jobim and as “the first significant cultural icon with mass appeal” by Caetano Veloso ~ Gonzaga passed away in 1989
December 13, 1909 ~ Jazz trumpeter Lou Mucci, full name Louis Raphael Mucci, born in Syracuse, New York, USA ~ Active since his early teens, initially playing baritone horn before switching to trumpet. Has worked with the likes of Mildred Bailey, Red Norvo, Glenn Miller, Helen Merrill, Charles Mingus, Gil Evans, Miles Davis (Miles Ahead), and Kenny Burrell ~ Mucci passed away in 2000
December 13, 1901 ~ Label executive, producer Eli Oberstein, full name Elliott Everett Oberstein, born in New York, New York, USA ~ Held various positions at various labels from the late 1920s until his death in 1960. Founded the Bluebird label, successful during the Depressian era with country and blues musicians such as the Delmore Brothers, Ernest Tubb, Big Bill Broonzy, and Roosevelt Sykes. As head of A&R at Victor signed Benny Goodman and Tommy Dorsey. Also known for having made deals with songwriters, music publishers and others in what would later evolve into the payola scandal ~ Oberstein passed away in 1960