September 19, 2023 ~ Francis Deprijck, commonly known as pop, disco, samba, ska singer, songwriter Lou Deprijck, passed away in Brussels, Belgium ~ First gained attention as member of Two Man Sound, actually a trio with Sylvain Vanholme and Yves Lacomblez, merging Latin rhythms with disco. The band is known for their 1975 million-seller Charlie Brown, written and recorded by Benito di Paula the previous year, and Disco Samba. Deprijck is also known as thriving force behind Plastic Bertrand, notably providing lead vocals, songwriting and production for the 1978 pastiche Ça Plane Pour Moi. Originally a B-side the single would be re-released with sides flipped, reach top 10 across Europe and later be covered by dozens of artists including Sonic Youth, Leila K, and the Presidents of the United States. In the 1980s Deprijck would find chart success producing Viktor Lazlo ~ Deprijck was born in 1946
September 19, 2021 ~ Classical violinist, conductor András Ligeti passed away ~ Closely associated with the Hungarian State Opera House, serving as concert master and conductor from 1977 through 1985, and with the Budapest Symphony Orchestra from 1985 through 1993. Has also worked with the Dresden Philharmonic, the Oslo Philharmonic, the Bergen Symphony, and the Orchestra de la Suisse Romande ~ Ligeti was born in 1953
September 19, 2020 ~ Hard rock drummer Lee Kerslake passed away ~ Member of Uriah Heep from 1972, first appearing on the album Demons & Wizards, until 1978. Rejoined for the 1982 Abominog, staying with the band until 2007. Has also worked with Ozzy Osbourne (Blizzard Of Oz, Diary Of A Madman), With The Gods, Machine Head, Toe Fat, Ken Hensley, Living Loud, and others ~ Kerslake was born in 1947
September 19, 2019 ~ Guitarist, bassist, singer, producer, songwriter Larry Wallis passed away ~ 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 was born in 1949
September 19, 2017 ~ Bassist Johnny Sandlin passed away in Decatur, Alabama, USA ~ Session bassist, guitarist, drummer. Member of the Impacts, the Five Minutes, and alongside Duane Allman and Gregg Allman a member of Hour Glass. Best known as an engineer and producer who worked with Widespread Panic, Wet Willie, the Aquarium Rescue Unit, and perhaps most notably extensively with the Allman Brothers Band ~ Sandlin was born in 1945
September 19, 2014 ~ Singers Lady Gaga and Tony Bennett release their Cheek To Cheek collaborative album ~ The pair first met at a charity event in 2011, where Lady Gaga performed Nat King Cole's Orange Colored Sky. Impressed by her voice, Tony Bennett invited Gaga to duet with him on his Duets II album, for which they recorded The Lady Is A Tramp. Over the next few years, plans for a full-length jazz album materialized inspired by their desire to introduce jazz standards to a younger generation, since they believed jazz to have a universal appeal. Cheek To Cheek consists of standards composed by the likes of George Gershwin, Cole Porter, Jerome Kern, and Irving Berlin, and would debut atop the Billboard Hot 200. Gaga would later comment: “Cheek To Cheek came out of a very organic friendship and relationship that Tony and I have built over the years and it truly was a collaborative effort”
September 19, 2014 ~ Percussionist, conga player, singer Milton Cardona passed away in New York, New York, USA ~ Influenced by Mongo Santamaria. Especially acclaimed for the albums Bembe and Cambucha, released respectively in 1985 and 1999. A mainstay on New York's salsa scene, Cardona reportedly appears on over an estimated 1,000 recordings including albums by Willie Colón, Clifford Thornton, Héctor Lavoe, Cachao, Ismael Miranda, Celia Cruz, Rubén Blades, the Fania All-Stars, Kip Hanrahan, Eddie Palmieri, Michael Brecker (Now You See It (Now You Don't)), David Byrne, Ronnie Cuber (The Scene Is Clean), David Sánchez, Steve Turre, Marlena Shaw, Paul Simon, Mario Bauzá (Messidor's Finest), Herbie Mann, and Paquito d'Rivera ~ Cardona was born in 1944
September 19, 2010 ~ William Marcel Collette, commonly known as flutist, saxophonist, clarinetist Buddy Collette, passed away in Los Angeles, California, USA ~ In 1949 Collette was the first black musician to be hired by a nationally broadcast TV studio orchestra, for You Bet Your Life hosted by Groucho Marx. The conductor received hate-mail for it, yet show, station and musicians stood by Collette. Collette also helped merge an all-black musicians union with an all-white one in the early 1950s. Over the course of his career Collette played with Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Nat King Cole, Nelson Riddle, Jim Hall, Fred Katz, Carson Smith, Ivie Anderson, Johnny Otis, Gerald Wilson, Ernie Andrews, Charles Mingus, Britt Woodman, John Anderson, Lucky Thompson, Teddy Edwards, Spaulding Givins, Oscar Bradley, Benny Carter, Percy Faith, Joe Liggins, Louis Jordan, and others ~ Collette was born in 1921
September 19, 2009 ~ Anthony Williams, commonly known a DJ, turntablist Roc Raida, passed away in New York, New York, USA ~ Member of DJ team the X-Ecutioners, present on the band's first three albums including the acclaimed 2002 Built From Scratch album. Served as DJ for Busta Rhymes and for MF Grimm. Has produced tracks for Ill Al Skratch, Showbiz & AG, the Jungle Brothers, Skillz, Big Pun, and others. As a solo artist released about half a dozen albums, starting with The Adventures Of Roc Raida (One Too Many) in 1997 ~ Williams was born in 1972
September 19, 2008 ~ Richard Merrill Sudhalter, commonly known as jazz trumpeter Dick Sudhalter, passed away in New York, New York, USA ~ Son of saxophonist Al Sudhalter, brother of saxophonist, flutist Carol Sudhalter. As a recording artist especially noted for 1968's Anglo-American Alliance and 1994's After Awhile. Also known as a journalist, music critic and writer, notably co-penning the Bix Beiderbecke biography Bix (Man And Legend) and penning the Hoagy Carmichael biography Stardust Melody ~ Sudhalter was born in 1938
September 19, 2008 ~ Drummer Earl Palmer, full name Earl Cyril Palmer, passed away in New Orleans, Louisiana, USA ~ Active since the late 1940s Palmer has worked as a session drummer with a host of artists including on Little Richard's first few albums and just about every early Richard single, on Fats Domino's The Fat Man and I'm Walking, Professor Longhair's Tipitina, Lloyd Price's Lawdy Miss Clawdy, and on Smiley Lewis' I Hear You Knocking. Has also sessioned for TV and film soundtracks, and worked well into the 1980s with artists such as Frank Sinatra, Phil Spector, Ricky Nelson, Bobby Vee, Ray Charles, Sam Cooke, Eddie Cochran, Ritchie Valens, Bobby Day, Jan & Dean, the Beach Boys, Larry Williams, Gene McDaniels, Bobby Darin, Neil Young, the Pets, David Axelrod, Dizzy Gillespie, Earl Bostic, Onzy Matthews, Count Basie, BB King, Randy Newman, Tom Waits, Bonnie Raitt, Tim Buckley, Little Feat, Elvis Costello, and numerous others. Member of the Wrecking Crew, a loose collective of first call session musicians which at times included Leon Russell, Jim Gordon, Plas Johnson, Hal Blaine and Larry Knechtel ~ Palmer was born in 1924
September 19, 2007 ~ Jazz saxophonist Mike Osborne, full name Michael Evans Osborne, passed away ~ Member of Brotherhood Of Breath, notably present on the albums Bremen To Bridgewater and Eclipse At Dawn. Member of saxophone trio SOS with John Surman and Alan Skidmore. Has also worked with Mike Westbrook, Michael Gibbs, Alan Skidmore, Kenny Wheeler, Norma Winstone, and others ~ Osborne was born in 1941
September 19, 2006 ~ Singer, songwriter, pianist, saxophonist Danny Flors, also known as Chuck Rio, passed away in Huntington Beach, California, USA ~ Founded the Champs together with guitarist Dave Burgess. Flores is best remembered for authoring the near-instrumental Tequila, originally the flip side of the Champs' debut single. As listeners requested the B-side over its A-side, Train To Nowhere, the single was re-released and shot to No.1 on the Billboard Hot 100 ~ Flores was born in 1929
September 19, 2006 ~ Folk singer Joe Glazer passed away in Silver Spring, Maryland, USA ~ Often called “Labor's Troubadour” and closely associated with the labor unions. Recorded over 30 albums. Best known for songs such as The Mill Was Made Of Marble, Too Old To Work, Automation, and others ~ Glazer was born in 1918
September 19, 2004 ~ Waldren Joseph, commonly known as trombonist Frog Joseph, passed away ~ Plays piano, double-bass and trombone. Toured with artists such as Joe Robichaux, Sidney Desvignew, and Lee Allen. Recorded with Big Joe Turner, Earl King, Smiley Lewis, Dave Bartholomew. Has also worked with Paul Barbarin, Louis Cottrell Jr, Papa French, the Original Camelia Band, and others. Two of Joseph's sons would go on to become professional jazz musicians, sousaphonist Kirk Joseph and trombonist Charles Joseph ~ Joseph was born in 1918
September 19, 2004 ~ Kenneth Parkin, commonly known as singer, actor Kenneth Sandford, passed away in Market Drayton, UK ~ Best known for his performances in baritone roles of Gilbert & Sullivan operas. Closely associated with the D'Oyly Carte Opera Company, remaining with the company for over two decades starting in 1957 ~ Parkin was born in 1924
September 19, 2004 ~ Mary Francis Penick, commonly known as singer Skeeter Davis passed away in Nashville, Tennessee, USA ~ Country-pop crossover singer. Member of the Davis Sisters. One of the first women in country to reach major stardom fame. Influenced Dolly Parton and Tammy Wynette. Collaborated with Ralph Emery, Porter Wagoner, Bobby Bare, NRBQ, and Teddy Nelson. Known for songs such as Lost To A Geisha Girl, I Can't Help You (I'm Falling Too), My Last Date With You, Set Him Free, Where I Ought To Be, Fuel To The Flame, The End Of The World, What Does It Take (To Keep A Man Like You Satisfied) and I'm A Lover Not A Fighter ~ Penick was born in 1931
September 19, 2003 ~ David Gordon Kirkpatrick, commonly known as guitarist, singer Slim Dusty, passed away in Sydney, Australia ~ Country singer, songwriter, producer. Australian cultural icon, especially representative of the bush life and bush poets ~ Kirkpatrick was born in 1927
September 19, 1999 ~ Singer, songwriter, producer Ed Cobb passed away ~ Member of the Four Preps from 1956 to 1966. Post-Preps Cobb has focused mainly on producing and as such has worked with artists such as the Standells, the Lettermen, the Chocolate Watch Band, Piltdown Men, Fleetwood Mac, Steely Dan, Pink Floyd. Cobb is also noted for writing songs for the Standells (Dirty Water), Brenda Holloway (Every Little Bit Hurts) and Gloria Jones (Tainted Love) ~ Cobb was born in 1938
September 19, 1997 ~ Richard Wayne Mullins, commonly known as Christian singer, pianist, guitarist, songwriter Rich Mullins, passed away in Lostant, Illinois, USA ~ Best known for his worship songs Awesome God and Sometimes By Step. Described by singer Amy Grant as “the uneasy conscience of Christian music” ~ Mullins was born in 1955
September 19, 1995 ~ R&B, gospel singer Zilla Mays, full name Zilla Florine Mays, passed away in Atlanta, Georgia, USA ~ As a singer known for a number of early 1950s R&B, gospel recordings, notably I'll Keep Singing My Song, If You Were On The Other Side, Seems Like You Just Don't Care, and Don't Take My Good Love Away. Best known as a radio host and community leader in Atlanta from the mid-1950s until her death four decades later, hosting a number of shows on WAOK ~ Mays was born in 1931
September 19, 1988 ~ Singer, guitarist, pianist, songwriter Reigan Derry born in Maida Vale, Australia ~ Member of Scarlett Belle known for the singles Closure and Freak Tonight. As a solo artist known for entering several talent shows, including Australian Idol in 2006 and The X-Factor Australia in 2011, for songs such as Feels Like Heaven, for her collaborations with Olic, Redfoo, Jake Gosling, Adam Argyle, Jon Hume, Trinity, David Ryan Harris, Bombs Away, and others
September 19, 1986 ~ Ilya Salmanzadeh, mononymously known as producer, songwriter Ilya born in Stockholm, Sweden ~ Frequent collaborator of producers, songwriters such as Max Martin, Shellback, Savan Kotecha. Has produced, written numerous hits for Fifth Harmony, Jennifer Lopez (First Love), Ellie Goulding, Tove Lo, Adam Lambert, Taylor Swift, Hilary Duff, Demi Lovato, DNCE, Skip Marley, Ariana Grande (Problem), Sam Smith, Kim Petras, and others
September 19, 1985 ~ Saxophonist Charlie Holmes passed away in Stoughton, Massachusetts, USA ~ Played clarinet and oboe for the Boston Civic Symphony Orchestra in the 1920s. Switched to alto saxophone by the end of the decase and went on to play with a variety of artists including Luis Russell, Red Allen, the Mills Blue Rhythm Band, John Kirby, Cootie Williams, and Duke Ellington. Retired from music in the early-1950s. Best known for composing Sugar Hilll Function ~ Holmes was born in 1910
September 19, 1982 ~ Joseph Junior Adenuga, commonly known as hip-hop, grime rapper, MC, producer, songwriter Skepta, born in London, UK ~ Known for songs such as Rescue Me, Greaze Mode with Nafe Smallz and Waze with Chip and Young Adz. Has also collaborated with Rude Kid, Wiley, Ace Hood, the Flatbush Zombies, Devlin, Lethal Bizzle, A$AP Rocky, Dizzee Rascal, Octavian, and others
September 19, 1979 ~ Louis Ferdinand Busch, commonly known as pianist, producer, songwriter Joe Fingers Carr, passed away in Camarillo, California, USA ~ Dropped out of school at age 16 to pursue a career as a musician. After a few years of touring would return to school, this time the Cincinnati Music Conservatory, to learn more about music theory. A&R executive at Capitol Records by the late 1940s. Has worked with Henry Busse, Clyde McCoy, George Olson, Hal Kemp, Milton Delugg, and others. As a solo artist best known for 1950s songs such as Portuguese Washerwoman, Sam's Song, Zambezi and Rollercoaster ~ Busch was born in 1910
September 19, 1978 ~ Pianist, arranger, composer Todor Kobakov born in Sofia, Bulgaria ~ As a recording artist best known for his critically acclaimed 2009 Pop Music album. The album features mostly instrumentals inspired by Kobakov's life experiences in both Bulgaria and his adopted homeland Canada. Kobakov has written over half a dozen soundtracks, including for the 2011 neo-noir thriller The Fury starring Samuel L Jackson, released two electronic albums under the moniker Cy Scobie, produced dance remixes for Metric's Emily Haines, and is an in-demand collaborator in Toronto's indie scene
September 19, 1977 ~ Drummer Ryan Dusick born in Los Angeles, California, USA ~ Founding member, drummer Maroon 5 from 1994 to 2006. Dusick left the band due to serious wrist and shoulder injuries from constant touring. Replaced by Matt Flynn
September 19, 1976 ~ Jermaine Denny, commonly known as rapper Red Cafe, born in New York, New York, USA ~ Underground rapper, releasing several singles and mixtapes since the mid-2000s. Member of Da Franchise. Known best for the 2007 The Co-Op album, a collaborative effort with DJ Envy. Portrayed freestyle rapper DJ Premier in the 2009 Notorious BIG-biopic Notorious
September 19, 1975 ~ Singer, guitarist, keyboardist, producer Baroi Johansson born in Iceland ~ Has worked with Bang Gang, with Keren Ann under the moniker Lady & Bird, and with Jean-Benoît Dunckel under the moniker Starwalker
September 19, 1975 ~ Alternative rock, electronic drummer Cameron McGlinchey born in Melbourne, Australia ~ Served as touring member for alternative rock band the Rogue Traders through 2005, when he joined the band as an official member. Notably present on the band's 2007 Better In The Dark album, which spawned the singles Don't You Wanna Feel, I Never Liked You, and What You're On, before leaving the band in 2008. Married to Natalie Bassingthwaighte, the band's lead singer, with whom he has two children
September 19, 1974 ~ Model, actress, TV personality, singer Victoria Silvstedt born in Skelleftehamn, Sweden ~ As a singer known for her sole album, the dance-pop Girl On The Run released in 1999 which included the singles Hello Hey, Rocksteady Love and Party Line. Has recorded sporadically since as she stated she loves singing but it is just a hobby
September 19, 1973 ~ Ingram Cecil Connor III, commonly known as country, country rock, folk rock singer, guitarist, pianist, songwriter Gram Parsons passed away in Joshua Tree, California, USA ~ Key figure in the development of country rock, though he hated the term, merging country, R&B, blues, soul, folk and rock. Member of the International Submarine Band. Briefly a member of the Byrds, notably present on the The Sweethearts Of The Rodeo album. Member of the Flying Burrito Brothers. As a solo artist known for his 1973 GP debut album and its posthumously released Grievous Angel follow-up, both considered landmark albums ~ Connor was born in 1946
September 19, 1972 ~ Jazz clarinetist, saxophonist Andrew Morgan passed away in New Orleans, Louisiana, USA ~ Member of sibling outfit the Young Morgan Band. Also worked with the Imperial Band, Kid Howard, Kid Rena, Kid Thomas Valentine, Alphonse Picou, Herb Morand, Kid Clayton, the Young Tuxedo Brass Band, Percy Humphrey, Sweet Emma Barrett, Alvin Alcorn, the Onward Brass Band, the Eureka Brass Band, and Captain John Handy ~ Morgan was born in 1901
September 19, 1971 ~ Daniel Kretschmer, commonly known as hip hop, reggea, dancehall singer D-Flame, born ~ Member of 1990s rap group the Asiatic Warriors, with whom he recorded the albums Told Ya and Strength. Following the band's disbandement has embarked on a solo career, starting with Basstard released in 2000. Known for the collaborative singles Sorry featuring Jan Delay and Burnin' Nonstop featuring Wayne Marshall
September 19, 1969 ~ Jazz, avant-garde jazz, electro-jazz, jazz-rock trumpeter Cuong Vu born in Saigon, Vietnam ~ Known for his boundary-pushing style with about a dozen albums to his name as a leader since the late 1990s, noted especially for 2005's It's Mostly Residual. In-demand sideman, present on albums by Orange Then Blue, Bobby Previte, Dave Douglas (Sanctuary), Ron Sexsmith, Oscar Noriega, Laurie Anderson, Pat Metheny (Speaking Of Now), Myra Melford, the Naked Truth, Joel Harrison, and David Bowie (Toy Toy-Box)
September 19, 1968 ~ Techno DJ, producer, remixer Dave Clarke, full name David Maurice Clarke, born in Brighton, UK ~ Dubbed “the Baron of Techno” by renowned radio DJ John Peel. First gained attention in the 1980s in Amsterdam's night club scene, regulary appearing at the famed Richter nightclub. Produced remixes for artists such as Kevin Saunderson's Inner City, the Chemical Brothers, New Order and Underworld. As a solo artist best known for the singles Southside and No One's Driving, both of which reached the British top 40 in 1996
September 19, 1968 ~ Clyde Julian Foley, commonly known as country, gospel, rockabilly singer, guitarist, banjoist, songwriter Red Foley, passed away in Fort Wayne, Indiana, USA ~ Dubbed “Mr Country Music” Foley was one of the most popular country singers of the 1940s and 1950s, selling over 25 million records. His 1951 rendition of Peace In The Valley hit recording, originally recorded by Mahalia Jackson in 1937, would become one of the first gospel songs to sell over a million copies. Other well known songs include Smoke On The Water, Shame On You, New Jolie Blonde (New Pretty Blonde), Tennessee Saturday Night, Chattanooga Shoeshine Boy, Birmingham Bounce, Midnight and the Kitty Wells-duet One By One ~ Foley was born in 1910
September 19, 1965 ~ Singer, guitarist, songwriter Tom Maxwell born in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA ~ Lead singer of swing revival band the Squirrel Nut Zippers through 1999, for whom he also wrote the Billboard Hot 100 top 20 hit Hell of the acclaimed 1996 Hot album. Has also recorded as a solo artist, starting with Samsara in 1999, and regularly collaborated with Squirrel bandmate Ken Mosher including on several soundtracks for TV and film notably for the animated feature film Happily Never After
September 19, 1964 ~ Patricia Lynn Yearwood, commonly known as country singer, guitarist Trisha Yearwood born in Monticello, Georgia, USA ~ Rose to fame with her 1991 She's In Love With The Boy debut single, which would reach No.1 on the Billboard R&B charts. Its accompanying eponymous Trisha Yearwood debut album would sell over 2 million copies. Would continue to record to commercial succes, scoring Billboard Country top 10 hits with songs such as That's What I Like About You, The Woman Before Me, The Wrong Side Of Memphis, Walkaway Joe featuring Don Henley, XXX's And OOO's (An American Girl) and Believe Me Baby (I Lied). Yearwood has been married to country singer Garth Brooks since 2005
September 19, 1963 ~ Alternative rock, indie rock, post-punk singer, guitarist, bassist, keyboardist, percussionist, songwriter Jarvis Cocker, full name Jarvis Branson Cocker, born in Sheffield, UK ~ Figurehead of Britpop during the mid-1990s. Frontman and sole constant member of Pulp, with whom he recorded about half a dozen albums. The band is especially acclaimed for Different Class released in 1995. All four of the album's singles, Common People, Sorted For E's And Wizz, Disco 2000, and Something Changed would all reach top 10 in the band's native UK. Jarvis has also recorded as a solo artist, starting with Jarvis in 2006, and worked as a radio host for the BBC
September 19, 1961 ~ Fingerstyle guitarist Peter Autschbach born in Siegen, Germany ~ Played in a 1995 production of the rock opera Tommy. Worked with the Dortmund Philharmonic Orchestra in early 2000s productions of the musicals Cabaret and West Side Story. Has released well over a dozen albums as a solo artist, with his band Terminal A, and with regular collaborators Ralf Illenberger
September 19, 1959 ~ Chicago house, deep house producer, DJ Marshall Jefferson born in Chicago, Illinois, USA ~ Known best for his 1986 single Move Your Body (The House Music Anthem), the first house song to use piano. Worked with artists such as Virgo, Jungle Wonz, On The House, Cece Rogers, Sterling Void, Ten City, Frankie Knuckles, Solardo, and others
September 19, 1959 ~ Jazz, pop, folk, folk rock singer, guitarist, songwriter Sally Barker born in Barrow-upon-Soar, UK ~ Founding member of the Poozies. As a solo artist one of four finalists on the third season of talent show The Voice UK aired on BBC One in 2014, alongside Christina Marie, Jamie Johnson and winner Jermain Jackman
September 19, 1958 ~ Heavy metal singer, guitarist, songwriter Lita Ford, full name Lita Rossana Ford, born in London, UK ~ Lead guitarist in the Runaways. As a solo artist best known for the 1989 single Close My Eyes Forever, a duet with Ozzy Osbourne and a Billboard top 10 hit in 1989
September 19, 1957 ~ Drummer, songwriter Rusty Egan born ~ Member of short-lived new wave band the Rich Kids, which also included the Sex Pistols-bassist Glen Matlock, guitarist Steve New and lead singer Midge Ure. Following the band's disbandement in 1978 would work with the Skids, Shock and perhaps most notably Visage, the latter known for the 1980 hit Fade To Grey which would become regarded as a landmark recording in synth-pop
September 19, 1956 ~ Jazz, cool jazz, fusion vibraphonist, keyboardist, percussionist, bandleader Wolfgang Lackerschmid born in Tegernsee, Germany ~ Over a dozen albums as a leader, starting with Mallet Connection released in 1978. As a sideman Lackerschmid has appeared on recordings by Chet Baker, Joe Gallardo, Biréli Lagrène (Routes To Django), Head Heart & Hands, Andy Bey, and Michal Urbaniak
September 19, 1955 ~ Actor, singer Rex Smith born in Jacksonville, Florida, USA ~ Late 1970s, early 1980s teen idol. Best known as an actor for stage and TV. Made his acting debut in the Broadway play Grease playing the lead role of Danny Zuko. As a recording artist singer best known for You take My Breath Away and duetting with Rachel Sweet on Everlasting Love
September 19, 1952 ~ Singer, guitarist, songwriter Kathy Kallick born ~ Influenced by John Prine, Steve Goodman, and Tom Dunde. Worked with artists such as Michael Drayton, Laurie Lewis, the Good Old Persons, Tom Bekeny, Amy Steinberg, Peter Rowan, Jerry Douglas, Stuart Duncan, Claire Lynch, Tim O'Brien, Jody Stecher, Kate Brislin, Darol Anger, James Leva, Sandy Rothman, Molly Tutle, Clive Gregson, and others
September 19, 1952 ~ Pianist, singer, composer, actor Nat Ayer, full name Nathaniel Davis Ayer, passed away in Bath, UK ~ Enjoyed popularity especially in the UK throughout the late 1910s, performing and composing Edwardian musical comedy and revue. Best known for writing the West End hit musicals The Bing Boys Are Here, which spawned the hit If You Were The Only Girl In The World, and Yes Uncle ~ Ayer was born in 1887
September 19, 1951 ~ Engineer, producer Richard Dashut, full name Richard Charles Dashut, born ~ Best known for his association with Fleetwood Mac, producing several of the band's best known albums including Rumours, Tusk, and Tango In The Night, as well as several solo outings by band members Mick Fleetwood, Lindsey Buckingham, and Christine McVie
September 19, 1949 ~ Lesley Hornby, commonly known as model, actress, singer Twiggy, born in Neasden, UK ~ British cultural icon and prominent teenaged model in 1960s London. Actress for film, TV and stage, notably the 1971 The Boy Friend film, as well as musical actress. Appeared on the cover of the 1973 David Bowie album Pin Ups. Had a notable cameo in That Girl Belongs To Yesterday] film released in 1980. Has recorded a number of albums over the years, starting in the early 1970s, with several singles doing quite well in her native UK including the 1976 Here I Go Again top 20 hit
September 19, 1947 ~ Pop, country singer, songwriter Urszula Sipinska born in Poznán, Poland ~ Broke through with Zapomnialam in 1967, co-written with her sister. Released her full-length eponymous Urszula Sipinkska debut album in 1971 and has recorded to commercial success and critical acclaim until retiring from music in 1990. Well known songs include To Byl Swiat W Zupulnie Starym Stylu, Sa Takie Dni W Tygodnu, Chce Wyjechac Na Wies and Mam Cudownych Rodzicow
September 19, 1945 ~ Singer, guitarist, songwriter David Bromberg born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA ~ Draws from numerous roots genres including bluegrass, folk, jazz, country, rock & roll. Known for his quirky lyrics. Multi-instrumentalist, revered fingerpicker, plays guitar, dobro, fiddle, mandolin and pedal steel guitar. Co-wrote The Holdup with George Harrison who also appears on Bromberg's 1972 eponymous David Bromberg album. Has also worked with Jerry Jeff Walker, Willie Nelson, Jorma Kaukonen and Jerry Garcia of the Grateful Dead, Rusty Evans, and Bob Dylan
September 19, 1942 ~ Singer, guitarist, songwriter Danny Kalb born in Brooklyn, New York, USA ~ Co-founding member of the Blues Project remaining with the band through 1967, rejoining in 1969. Merging blues, R&B, jazz, psychedelia and folk-rock the band is best known for their 1966 Projections sophomore album, its highlight being an 11-minute Muddy Waters-cover Two Trains Runnin' featuring Kalb on guitar and lead vocals ~ Kalb passed away in 2022
September 19, 1942 ~ Singer, actress Freda Payne, full name Freda Charcilia Payne, born in Detroit, Michigan, USA ~ Sister of singer Scherrie Payne of the Supremes. Active from the mid-1960s through the mid-1980s as singer and actress in musicals and film. Best known for her 1970 Billboard Hot 100 top 10 hit Band Of Gold, penned by Brian Holland, Lamont Dozier, Eddie Holland Jr & Ron Dunbar
September 19, 1942 ~ Drummer, percussionist Ray Cooper born in Watford, UK ~ Influenced by Ginger Baker, Carmine Appice, John Bonham. Known for incorporating at the time unusual instruments such as cowbells, glockenspiel and tubular bells. In-demand session and touring percussionist. Closely associated with Elton John, starting on the 1971 Madman Across The Water. Guested on the Rolling Stones album It's Only Rock And Roll released in 1974. Played on and co-produced George Harrison's 1981 Somewhere In England album. Has also worked with the Descendents, the Wombles, Billy Joel, Blue Mink, Paul McCartney, Pink Floyd, Eric Clapton, Christine McVie, Art Garfunkel, and others
September 19, 1941 ~ Ellen Naomi Cohen, commonly known as singer Cass Elliott, born in Baltimore, Maryland, USA ~ Best known as member of 1960s vocal group the Mamas & the Papas. Has gone on to release solo albums and singles, notably Dream A Little Dream Of Me. Prior to the Mamas & the Papas Cohen was a member of the Big 3 alongside Tim Rose and then-husband James Hendricks ~ Cohen was born in 1974
September 19, 1941 ~ Peter Müller, commonly known as singer, guitarist, songwriter Peter Horton, born in Feldsberg, Germany ~ Well over a dozen albums to his name since the early 1970s. Internationally best known for representing his native Austria at the 1967 Eurovision Songfestival, reaching 14th place with Warum Es Hunderttausend Sterne Gibt ~ Müller passed away in 2023
September 19, 1940 ~ Singer Bill Medley born in Santa Ana, California, USA ~ Influenced by Little Richard, Ray Charles, Bobby Blue Bland and BB King. Best known as the bass-baritone half of the Righteous Brothers, the other half being Bobby Hatfield, known for songs such as You've Lost That Lovin' Feelin', Unchained Melody and Soul & Inspiration. Post-Brothers Medley scored a huge hit duetting with Jennifer Warnes on I've Had The Time Of My Life
September 19, 1940 ~ Paul Nigel Vincent Yarlett, commonly known as singer Paul Williams, born ~ Member of Zoot Money. Subsequently worked with John Mayall & the Bluesbreakers, taking over for John McVie and present on the albums Looking Back and Thru The Years. Member of Juicy Lucy. Member of Tempest, appearing on the band's 1973 eponymous Tempest album. Has also worked with Aynsley Dunbar, Dick Heckstall-Smith, and Allan Holdsworth ~ Yarlett passed away in 2019
September 19, 1940 ~ Sylvia Fricker, also known as Sylvia Tyson, born in Chatham, Canada ~ Formed the folk duo Ian & Sylvia with husband Ian Tyson from 1959 through 1974. The duo recorded over a dozen albums and is best known for You Were On My Mind, covered by numerous artists including We Five and Crispian St Peters. The couple also worked together fronting country rock band the Great Speckled Bird from the late 1960 through the early 1970s. Following her divorce in 1975 Fricker has recorded as a solo artist, notably 1986's Denim Blue Eyes, 1987's Too Short A Ride and 1992's I Walk These Rails all reaching top 20 on the Canadian country charts. Formed the country, folk group Quartette in the early 1990s, with each member also recording as a solo artist
September 19, 1937 ~ Singer, guitarist, songwriter Paul Siebel born in Buffalo, New York, USA ~ Critically acclaimed, once described by The New York Times as “a folk singer with a country and western bias, (who) sings in high nasal and hillbilly manner, rather like Bob Dylan singing in his early days”. Known for two early 1970s albums, Woodsmoke And Oranges and Jack-Knife Gypsy. Though Siebel never achieved mainstream success, he was held in the highest regard by peers. Perhaps best remembered for penning and first recording Louise, covered by over two dozen artists including Linda Ronstadt, Bonnie Raitt, and Willy DeVille. Others who covered his songs include Marc Ellington, Jerry Jeff Walker (Then Came The Children), Emmylou Harris, and Waylon Jennings. Siebel was one of the artists referenced in Kris Kristofferson's The Pilgrim (Chapter 33), a song inspired by Kristofferson's own experience of living as a songwriter, as well as those of his often-unemployed peers ~ Siebel passed away in 2022
September 19, 1937 ~ R&B, doo-wop singer Phil Cracolici born ~ Lead singer of the Mystics, known for the 1959 hit Hushabye. It was a substitute after A Teenager In Love, originally intended for them, was given to labelmates Dion & the Belmonts
September 19, 1934 ~ Producer, label executive Carl Davis, full name Carl H Davis Sr, born in Chicago, Illinois, USA ~ Closely associated with Okeh Records, Brunswick Records, and Chi-Sound Records, founding the latter in 1976. First gained serious attention producing Gene Chandler's 1962 hit single Duke Of Earl, later named one of the 500 Songs That Shaped Rock & Roll. Would go on to produce for the likes of Major Lance, Walter Jackson, the Artistics, Jackie Wilson ((Your Love Keeps Lifting Me) Higher & Higher), Barbara Acklin, Tyrone Davis (Turn Back The Hands Of Time), and Hamilton Bohannon ~ Davis passed away in 2012
September 19, 1932 ~ George Lowen Coxhill, commonly known as saxophonist Lol Coxhill, born in Portsmouth, UK ~ Emerged from the 1960s Canterbury scene to become a highly in-demand sideman. Reportedly inspired Joni Mitchell's song For Free while busking solo on a London bridge. Has worked as a solo artist and worked with Kevin Ayers, Carol Grimes, Delivery, Mike Oldfield, Morgan Fisher, Brotherhood Of Breath, Coxhill-Bedford Duo, the Dedication Orchestra, Django Bates, the Damned, Hugh Metcalfe, Derek Bailey, Hybrid Kids, Trevor Watts Moiré Music, Mick Audsley, Heidi Berry, Caravan, Eugene Chadbourne, Shirley Collins, Lindsay Cooper, the Flying Padovanis, Alexis Korner, the Spontaneous Music Ensemble, Gary Windo, Robert Wyatt, Penny Rimbaud, and others ~ Coxhill passed away in 2012
September 19, 1931 ~ Benjamin Peay, commonly known as singer, songwriter Brook Benton, born in Lugoff, South Carolina, USA ~ Popular 1950s and 1960s rock & roll, R&B, pop singer known for hits such as It's Just A Matter Of Time, Endlessly, So Many Ways, Kiddio and a number of duets with Dinah Washington such as Baby You've Got What It Takes and A Rocking Good Way (To Mess Around And Fall In Love). Scored his last major hit in 1969, topping the Billboard R&B charts with the Tony Joe White-cover Rainy Night In Georgia ~ Benton passed away in 1988
September 19, 1931 ~ Mary Francis Penick, commonly known as singer Skeeter Davis born in Dry Ridge, Kentucky, USA ~ Country-pop crossover singer. Member of the Davis Sisters. One of the first women in country to reach major stardom fame. Influenced Dolly Parton and Tammy Wynette. Collaborated with Ralph Emery, Porter Wagoner, Bobby Bare, NRBQ, and Teddy Nelson. Known for songs such as Lost To A Geisha Girl, I Can't Help You (I'm Falling Too), My Last Date With You, Set Him Free, Where I Ought To Be, Fuel To The Flame, The End Of The World, What Does It Take (To Keep A Man Like You Satisfied) and I'm A Lover Not A Fighter ~ Penick passed away in 2004
September 19, 1930 ~ Trumpeter, cornetist, conductor Bram Gay, full name Bramwell Clifford Gay, born in Treorchy, UK ~ 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 passed away in 2019
September 19, 1927 ~ Nicholas Macioci, commonly known as singer Nick Massi, was born in Newark, New Jersey, USA ~ Joined the Four Lovers in 1958, which would evolve into the Four Seasons best known for their association with Frankie Valli. Massi remained with the group through 1965, appearing on some of the band's best-known hits including Sherry, Dawn Go Away, Rag Doll ~ Macioci passed away in 2000
September 19, 1926 ~ Raffaele Celéste Rosso, commonly known as trumpeter Nini Rosso, born in San Michele Mondovi, Italy ~ Became one of Italy's most beloved trumpeters in the 1960s. Known for Concerto Disperato which was notably covered by Ken Thorne as Theme From Legion's Last Patrol, and for Il Silenzio which became an international hit in 1965 ~ Rosso passed away in 1994
September 19, 1924 ~ Composer Ernest Tomlinson born in Rawtenstall, UK ~ Brother of Fred Tomlinson. Staff arranger at Arcadia and Mills Music Publishers. Led the Ernest Tomlinson Light Orchestra. Musical director of the Rossendale Male Voice Choir, a post he took over from his father Fred Tomlinson Sr. Founded the the Library Of Light Orchestral Music, housed in his family's farmhouse, containing some 50,000 pieces ~ Tomlinson passed away in 2015
September 19, 1921 ~ Robert L Williams, commonly known as R&B singer, songwriter Billy Ward, born in Savannah, Georgia, USA ~ Fronted Billy Ward & the Dominoes, known for 1950s hits such as Do Something For Me, Sixty Minute Man, Have Mercy Baby, Rags To Riches, Star Dust, and others. The band also served as a launching pad for singer Clyde McPhatter and Jackie Wilson ~ Ward passed away in 2002
September 19, 1915 ~ String player, singer Clyde Moody born in Cherokee, North Carolina, USA ~ Dubbed “the Hillbilly Waltz King” and generally regarded as one of the pioneers of Bluegrass. Active since the late 1930s, starting out as a member of JE Mainer's Mountaineers. Has also worked with Bill Monroe's the Blue Grass Boys, notably present on songs such as Cryin' Holy Unto My Lord, Mule Skinner Blues and Dog House Blues. Has also worked with Brown's Ferry Four and sang with Elvis Presley on a 1955 six-week tour ~ Moody passed away in 1989
September 19, 1913 ~ Singer Helen Ward born in New York, New York, USA ~ Worked with Benny Goodman, Hal McIntyre, Harry James, Teddy Wilson, Hoagy Carmichael, Lionel Hampton, Red Norvo, Gene Krupa, Joe Sullivan, Roy Eldridge, Harold Arlen, Johnny Mercer, Peanuts Hucko, and others ~ Ward passed away in 1998
September 19, 1908 ~ Jazz flutist Alberto Socarrás, full name Alberto Socarrás Estacio, born in Manzanillo, Cuba ~ Leader and sideman. Noted for his 1927 recording Shooting The Pistol with Clarence Williams' orchestra, named by some as the first recorded jazz flute solo. Has also worked with Arquimedes Pous, Benny Carter, Anacaona, Sam Wooding, Mongo Santamaria, Cab Calloway, and Erskine Hawkins ~ Socarrás passed away in 1987
September 19, 1902 ~ Orchestra leader, pianist, accordionist, songwriter Billy Reid, full name William Gordon Reid born ~ Popular from the 1930s through the 1950s. Wrote a number of songs for singer Dorothy Squires, including The Gypsy, A Tree In The Meadow and I'm Walking Behind You, all of which would become US hits for other vocalists ~ Reid passed away in 1974
September 19, 1892 ~ Songwriter Fred E Ahlert born in New York, New York, USA ~ Noted songwriter, often partnering up with lyricist Roy Turk, whose songs were recorded by Louis Armstrong, Nat King Cole, Ella Fitzgerald, Thelonious Monk, Frank Sinatra, Moon Mullican, Dean Martin, Jerry Lee Lewis, Stanley Moldawski, Fats Waller, and others ~ Ahlert passed away in 1953
September 19, 1887 ~ Cora Taylor, commonly known as bandleader, pianist, singer, songwriter Lovie Austin, born in Chattanooga, Tennessee, USA ~ Along with Lil' Armstrong regarded as one of the best feamale jazz blues pianists of the classic blues era. Cited by Mary Lou Williams as her greatest influence. As a pianist a highly in-demand accompaniest, present on pivotal recordings such as Ma Rainey's Moonshine Blues, Ida Cox' Wild Women Don't Have The Blues, Ethel Waters' Craving Blues. Co-wrote Alberta Hunter's Down Hearted Blues. Led the Blues Serenaders which at times included Tommy Ladnier, Bob Shoffner, Kid Ory, Johnny Dodds, and others ~ Taylor passed away in 1972