April 29, 2023 ~ Jazz trombonist, keyboardist, arranger Don Sebesky passed away in Maplewood, New Jersey, USA ~ Best known as in-house arranger since the early-1960s for a number of jazz labels including Verve, A&M Records, and CTI Records. Closely associated with producer Creed Taylor. Notable credits include arranging and conducting for Wes Montgomery (Bumpin'), Willie Bobo, Buddy Rich, Dionne Warwick (Promises Promises), Astrud Gilberto, Kenny Burrell, and George Benson (Shape Of Things To Come). As a leader best known for his 1973 Giant Box album. Over the course of his career Sebesky has composed several film scores, and arranged and conducted for hundreds of artists from jazz to pop, including Barbra Streisand, Tony Bennett, Christina Aguilera, Britney Spears, Michael Bublé, Seal, and Prince ~ Sebesky was born in 1937
April 29, 2022 ~ Jazz drummer Allen Blairman passed away ~ To rock audiences perhaps best known as a member of 1970s jazz-rock group Embryo. Has also worked with Charles Mingus, Chet Baker, Archie Shepp, Mal Waldron, Albert Ayler, and Karl Berger ~ Blairman was born in 1940
April 29, 2022 ~ Singer, songwriter Tarsame Singh Saini, also known as Johnny Zee and Taz, passed away ~ British-born of Indian descent, Saini is considered a pioneer of cross-cultural Asian fusion music. Has released a number of solo albums, starting with Hit The Deck in 1989, prior to forming and fronting Stereo Nation. The band is best known for their 2000 Slave II Fusion album, Saini's most successful album, containing well known tracks such as Pyar Ho Gaya, Nachenge Saari Raat, Gallan Gorian, and Let's Go Dancing (Ooh La La La), the latter a cover of the Kool & the Gang classic ~ Saini was born in 1967
April 29, 2021 ~ Actor, singer Johnny Crawford, full name John Ernest Crawford, passed away in Los Angeles, California, USA ~ Best known as an actor, rising to prominence playing in the western TV series Rifleman which earned him an Emmy Award at age 13. Had a brief recording career during the early-1960s, scoring hits with songs such as Cindy's Birthday, Your Nose Is Gonna Grow, and Rumors ~ Crawford was born in 1946
April 29, 2021 ~ Bassist, producer Tony Markellis passed away ~ Best known for his association with Trey Anastasio. Has also worked with Paul Butterfield, Johnny Shines, David Bromberg, Paul Siebel, Rosalie Sorrels, Ellen McIlwaine, Mary McCaslin, Jo Henley, with jazz fusion group Kilimanjaro, and others ~ Markellis was born in 1952
April 29, 2014 ~ Abraham Osser, commonly known as orchestra leader, arranger, songwriter Glenn Osser, passed away ~ Arranged for Bob Crosby, Vincent Lopez, Al Donahue, Charlie Barnet, Bunny Berigan, Ben Bernie. Backed singers such as Doris Day, Jerry Vale, Johnny Mathis, Jill Corey. Long-time musical director and conductor for the Miss America Pageant ~ Osser was born in 1914
April 29, 2009 ~ Vernon Gosdin, commonly known as country, gospel, bluegrass, folk rock singer, guitarist, songwriter Vern Gosdin, passed away in Nashville, Tennessee, USA ~ Influenced by the Louvin Brothers and the Blue Sky Boys. Co-founding member of the Hillmen. Formed the sibling duo the Gosdin Brothers with Rex Gosdin, noted for the acclaimed collaborative 1967 album Gene Clark With The Gosdin Brothers with Gene Clark. Best known as a solo artist, about a dozen albums to his name starting in the late-1970s. Well known songs include Hangin' On which featured Emmylou Harris on harmony vocals, Till The End, If You're Gonna Do Me Wrong Do It Right, I Can Tell By The Way You Dance (You're Gonna Love Me Tonight), Set 'Em Up Joe, Chiseled In Stone, Who You Gonna Blame It On This Time, and I'm Still Crazy. Gosdin's Is It Raining At Your House has been covered by Brad Paisley, That Just About Does It by Willie Nelson ~ Gosdin was born in 1934
April 29, 2008 ~ Drummer Micky Waller passed away in London, UK ~ In-demand drummer active since the early-1960s. Has worked with the Flee-rekkers, Cyril Davies, Marty Wilde, Georgie Fame, Brian Auger, Trinity, Steampacket, John Mayall's quintessential British R&B band the Bluesbreakers, Jeff Beck (including on the Truth album), Rod Stewart, Long John Baldry, Terry Smith, Dick Heckstall-Smith, Sam Gopal, and others. Backed rock & roller Little Richard on two separate UK tours ~ Waller was born in 1941
April 29, 1999 ~ Jazz, R&B pianist, singer, songwriter Roosevelt Wardell passed away in Smyrna, Delaware, USA ~ Best known for the 1952 recordings So Glad I'm Free and Deep Moanin' Blues, both recorded with Ed Wiley. Worked with Johnny O'Neal, Earl Hooker, Cannonball Adderley, Sam Jones, Louis Hayes, Earl Anderza, and others ~ Wardell was born ca.1933
April 29, 1998 ~ Harris Copperman, commonly known as dance band, big band saxophonist, clarinetist Harry Lewis, passed away in Haywards Heath, UK ~ Active since the late-1930s, working with artists such as George Elrick, Jack Harris, and notably Bert Ambrose's orchestra featuring singer Vera Lynn. Would marry Lynn in 1941 and serve as her accompaniest and manager after the war. Lewis is perhaps best remembered for writing This Perfect Day, recorded by Lynn in 1949 ~ Copperman was born in 1915
April 29, 1997 ~ Blues, blues-rock, rock & roll, R&B bassist, guitarist, singer Keith Ferguson passed away ~ Best known as member of the Fabulous Thunderbirds from 1976 through 1985, present on the band's first four albums. Subsequently a member of the Tailgators. Has also worked with Sunnyland Special, Black Kangaroo, the Nightcrawlers alongside Stevie Ray Vaughan, with Rocky Hill, Carlos Santana (Havana Moon), the LeRoi Brothers, Mike Morgan, Jim Suhler, and others ~ Ferguson was born in 1946
April 29, 1990 ~ Blues guitarist Sammy Lawhorn, full name Samuel David Lawhorn, passed away in Chicago, Illinois, USA ~ Best known for his association with Muddy Waters, including on pivotal albums such as Folk Singer and Live At Mr Kelly's. Has also worked with artists such as Otis Spann, Willie Cobbs, Eddie Boyd, Roy Brown, Big Mama Thornton, John Lee Hooker, James Cotton, Junior Wells, Otis Rush, Jimmy Witherspoon, T-Bone Walker, Lightnin' Hopkins, Elmore James, and others ~ Lawhorn was born in 1935
April 29, 1989 ~ Louisa Rose Allen, commonly known as singer, songwriter, model Foxes, born in Southampton, UK ~ First gained attention providing the vocals on Zedd's 2012 single Clarity. Debuted as a solo singer in 2014 with the album Glorious. Known for songs such as Youth, Let Go For Tonight, Body Talk and Amazing
April 29, 1989 ~ Jesse David Leroi Grey, commonly known as reggae singer, songwriter Jesse Royal, born in St James Parish, Jamaica ~ Active since the early-2010s. Mentored by Philip Fatis Burrell who produced some of Royal's early singles. Toured extensively for a number of years leading up to his acclaimed Lily Of Da Valley debut album released in 2017. Has collaborated with the likes of Jo Mersa Marley, Vybz Kartel, Kumar, Stonebwoy, and others
April 29, 1988 ~ Michael Ray Roach, commonly known as country singer, songwriter Michael Ray, born in Eustis, Florida, USA ~ Independently released his eponymous Michael Ray debut album in 2010. Would first gain serious attention in 2012, winning the talent contest The Next (Fame Is At Your Doorstep) leading to a record deal. Would go on to reach the Billboard Country top 10 with singles such as Kiss You In The Morning, Think A Little Less, One That Got Away, and Whiskey And Rain
April 29, 1986 ~ Jeff Abel, commonly known as producer, DJ Excision, born in Kelowna, Canada ~ Dubstep, drum and bass, trap, breakbeat producer and DJ known for his dark sounds, heavy on the bass and drawing from hip-hop and metal. Active since the mid-2000s. Released his full-length X-Rated debut album in 2011
April 29, 1984 ~ Jake Anderson, commonly known as rapper, singer, songwriter Prof, born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA ~ Enjoying local popularity since the mid-2000s, regarded as one of the most popular rappers in the Twin Cities area. Released his Project Gampo debut album in 2007 and has recorded consistently since
April 29, 1982 ~ James Henry Jones, commonly known as jazz pianist Jimmy Jones, passed away in Burbank, California, USA ~ Leader, sideman, arranger. Cited by Dave Brubeck as a major influence. Closely associated with Sarah Vaughan, backing Vaughan from 1947 through 1952 and again from 1954 through 1957. Also worked with Stuff Smith, Don Byas, Dizzy Gillespie, JC Heard, Buck Clayton, Etta Jones, Clifford Brown, Anita O'Day, Dakota Staton, Pat Suzuki, Morgana King, Harry Belafonte, Johnny Hodges, Bud Johnson, Nat Gonella, Harry Sweets Edison, Big Joe Turner, Coleman Hawkins, Frank Wess, Milt Jackson, Sidney Bechet, Sonny Rollins, Sonny Stitt, and others. Present on the 1957 The Jones Boys album by the Jones Boys, a one-off group put together by Leonard Feather with all members named “Jones” though none were related ~ Jones was born in 1918
April 29, 1981 ~ William Alonzo Anderson, commonly known as jazz trumpeter Cat Anderson, passed away in Norwalk, California, USA ~ Best known for his extensive tenure in Duke Ellington's orchestra. Also played with Hartley Toots, Claude Hopkins, Doc Wheeler, Lucky Millinder, Erskine Hawkins, Sabby Lewis, Lionel Hampton, Gene Ammons, Louie Bellson, Ella Fitzgerald, Johnny Hodges, Quincy Jones, Rosemary Clooney, Earl Hines, Bill Berry, and with Claude Bolling ~ Anderson was born in 1916
April 29, 1981 ~ Singer, songwriter Tahita Bulmer, full name Tahita Rotardier Bulmer, born in City Of Westminster, UK ~ Co-founding member of the New Young Pony Club, best known for their acclaimed 2007 Fantastic Playroom debut album. After keyboardist Lou Hayter and drummer Sarah Jones departed the band would return to its electropop roots and be renamed to NYPC to reflect the change
April 29, 1980 ~ Singer, guitarist, pianist, drummer, bassist, songwriter Kian Egan, full name Kian John Francis Egan, born in Sligo, Ireland ~ Member of Irish boy band Westlife, alongside Kian Egan, Nicky Byrne, Shane Filan and Brian McFadden, known for songs such as Swear It Again, Flying Without Wings, Fool Again, What Makes A Man, Queen Of My Heart, Hey Whatever, You Raise Me Up and Amazing, all of which reached top 10 in both the band's native Ireland and the UK. Debuted as a solo artist with the album Home in 2014
April 29, 1979 ~ Singer, songwriter Jo O'Meara, full name Joanne Valda O'Meara, born in Romford, UK ~ Best known as member of S Club 7 from 1999 until its disbandement in 2003, present on hits such as Reach, Don't Stop Movin', Have You Ever, Love Ain't Gonna Wait For You and perhaps their best known Never Had A Dream Come True
April 29, 1978 ~ R&B, funk, soul, neo soul singer, guitarist, pianist, songwriter Javier Colon born in Stratford, Connecticut, USA ~ Toured with Derek Trucks Band during the early-2000s. Departed the group in 2002 to pursue a solo career, releasing his Javier debut album in 2003. It would reach top 20 on the Billboard R&B album charts. Has recorded steadily since. Gained serious exposure in 2011, overwhelmingly winning the NBC talent contest The Voice. Would reach Billboard Hot 100 top 20 the same year with the single Stitch By Stitch
April 29, 1975 ~ Folk rock, country rock, indie rock singer, guitarist, drummer, songwriter Garrison Starr, full name Julia Garrison Starr, born ~ Recorded about a dozen albums as a solo artist since the early-1990s. Perhaps best known for her 1997 Eighteen Over Me album, which would contain her signature song Superhero and would lead to an invitation to tour with the all-female festival tour Lilith Fair. Starr's songs have been used in TV series such as Life Unexpected, Pretty Little Liars, The Fosters, and Grey's Anatomy. Starr also co-founded Among The Oak & Ash with Josh Joplin, known for their 2009 eponymous Among The Oak & Ash album. Also a member of Plover, with whom she recorded the eponymous Plover album the same year
April 29, 1974 ~ Anggun Ciptun Sasmi, mononymously known as singer, pianist, songwriter Anggun, born in Jakarta, Indonesia ~ Started performing at age 7. Released a number of rock-influenced albums in Indonesia starting in the mid-1980s before relocating to Europe to pursue an international career. Internationally best known for songs such as In Your Mind, Saviour, and I'll Be Alright. Represented France in the 2012 Eurovision Songfestival, reaching 22nd place with Echo (You & I)
April 29, 1974 ~ James Kimball Gannon, commonly known as songwriter, lyricist Kim Gannon, passed away in Lake Worth, Florida, USA ~ Collaborated with songwriters suh as J Fred Coots, Walter Kent, Josef Myrow, Max Steiner, Jule Styne, Mabel Wayne, Luckey Roberts. Well known songs co-written by Gannon include Moonlight Cocktail (Glenn Miller), I Understand (Jimmy Dorsey), A Dreamer's Holiday (Perry Como), I'll Be Home For Christmas (Bing Crosby), and I Want To Be Wanted (Brenda Lee) ~ Gannon was born in 1900
April 29, 1973 ~ Alternative rock, post-grunge, pop drummer Cheney Brannon born ~ Best known as member of Collective Soul, present on the band's eponymous 2009 Collective Soul album. Has also worked with Cheap Thrills, Riley Biederer, John Corabi, Joel Kosche, and others
April 29, 1970 ~ Pop, rock singer, songwriter China Forbes born in Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA ~ Co-lead singer of Pink Martini since 1995. The band is noted for its collaborations with numerous artists, notably Saori Yuki and the Von Trapps, and had many of its songs featured in films such as Josie & The Pussycates, Hitch and Mr & Mrs Jones as well as TV series such as The Sopranos, The West Wing and Sherlock
April 29, 1969 ~ Percy Robert Miller, commonly known as rapper, producer, actor Master P, born in New Orleans, Louisiana, USA ~ As a solo artist known for his 1995 single Mr Ice Cream Man and notably his 1997 single Make 'Em Say Uhh, the latter featuring Fiend, Silkk The Shocker, Mia X & Mystikal and reaching Billboard top 20. Has also worked with Miller Boyz, TRU, Pimp C, Sons Of Funk, Webbie, and others
April 29, 1969 ~ Jazz bassist Thomas Winther Andersen born in Oslo, Norway ~ Married to jazz singer Henriette Andersen. Active as a leader since the late-1990s, working with Winther-Storm, Line-Up, and Sketch. Also a valued sideman, notably with Axel Hagen, Robert Rook, Olaf Zetsloot, and Simone Honijk
April 29, 1968 ~ Singer Carnie Wilson born in Los Angeles, California, USA ~ Co-founding member of pop group Wilson Phillips, which also included Wendy Wilson and Chyna Phillips, known for a string of 1990s hits notably the Billboard Hot 100 charttoppers Hold On, Release Me and You're In Love. All three band members are daughters of famous musicians, sisters Carnie and Wendy of the Beach Boys-singer Brian Wilson, Chyna is the daughter of the Mamas & the Papas-members John Phillips and Michelle Phillips
April 29, 1968 ~ Rock guitarist Janne Halmkrona born ~ Influenced by the Sex Pistols, Judas Priest, Yes, and Genesis. Best known as a member of Finnish rock band CMX, joining the group in 1990 as replacement for Kimmo Suomalainen and first appearing on the band's 1991 Veljeskunta sophomore album. Has also worked as an A&R manager for Sony BMG Finland
April 29, 1967 ~ Jazz saxophonist Benny Krueger passed away ~ Briefly played with the Original Dixieland Jazz Band, appearing on a number of early-1920s recordings. Would go on to become a musical director and conductor for radio and TV working with artists such as Rudy Vallée and Bob Crosby. As a solo artist best known for I Cried For You and Wang Wang Blues (Saxopation). Also wrote Sunday, recorded by Pat Boone, Louis Jordan and most notably Lester Young ~ Krueger was born in 1899
April 29, 1967 ~ Blues guitarist, singer JB Lenoir passed away in Urbana, Illinois, USA ~ Influenced by Blind Lemon Jefferson, Arthur Crudup, Lightnin' Hopkins. Known for songs such as Korea Blues, Let's Roll, Mojo and Mama Talk To Your Daughter. Worked with Sonny Boy Williamson II, Elmore James, Memphis Minnie, Big Maceo Merriweather, Muddy Waters, Sunnyland Slim, Leroy Foster, JT Brown, Willie Dixon, Fred Below, and others ~ Lenoir was born in 1929
April 29, 1963 ~ Country singer, songwriter Stephanie Bentley, full name Stephanie Kay Bentley, born in Thomasville, Georgia, USA ~ First gained attention duetting with Ty Herndon on Heart Half Empty in 1996. It would be included on both Herndon's What Mattered Most debut album and Bentley's sole Hopechest album. Best known as a songwriter. Wrote or co-wrote songs for Céline Dion, Faith Hill (Breathe), Pam Tillis, Martina McBride (Concrete Angel), Jo Dee Messina, and others
April 29, 1961 ~ Gilbert Vandine Houston, commonly known as folk singer, guitarist, songwriter Cisco Houston, passed away in San Bernardino, California, USA ~ Closely associated with Woody Guthrie, touring with Guthrie as early as the late-1930s and joining him in the Almanac Singers later. As a solo artist known for songs such as Great July Jones, Crazy Heart, What Did The Deep Blue Sea Say and Dollar Down. Influential on later folk singers, some of which recorded tribute songs such as Tom Paxton (Fare Thee Well Cisco), Peter La Farge (Cisco Houston Passed This Way) and Tom McGrath (Blues For Cisco Houston) ~ Houston was born in 1918
April 29, 1961 ~ Irving Milfred Mole, commonly known as trombonist Miff Mole, passed away in New York, New York, USA ~ Leader and sideman. Known for recordings such as Slippin' Around, Red Hot Mama, Miff's Blues and There'll Come A Time (Wait And See). Worked with the Original Memphis Five, Sophie Tucker, Roger Wolfe Kahn, Sam Lanin, Eddie Lang, Jimmy Dorsey, Red Nichols, Vic Berton, the Charleston Chasers, and others ~ Mole was born in 1898
April 29, 1961 ~ Singer Wanda Jackson records In The Middle Of A Heartbreak in Nashville, Tennessee ~ Written by Laurie Christenson, Pat Franzese and Jackson. Produced by Ken Nelson. It would be released the next September as a single, featuring I'd Be Ashamed on the flip side. During the same session Jackson also recorded the Hank Cochran-penned Little Bitty Tear, her next single
April 29, 1960 ~ Alternative rock, noise pop, shoegazing bassist Phil King born in London, UK ~ Best known as bassist for Lush, joining the band in 1992 as replacement for Steve Rippon. Also closely associated with the Jesus & Mary Chain, serving as the band's touring bassist, guitarist from 2007 through 2015. Has also worked with Felt, Biff Bang Powl, Servants, the Fallen Leaves, and others
April 29, 1957 ~ Bella Becker, commonly known as singer, actress, radio host Belle Baker, passed away in Los Angeles, California, USA ~ Popular 1910s, 1920s ragtime, torch singer, actress. Popularized a number of Irving Berlin songs such as Blue Skies and My Yiddishe Mama. Hosted her own radio show in the 1930s ~ Becker was born in 1893
April 29, 1956 ~ Jazz bassist Ira Coleman born in Stockholm, Sweden ~ Has played with artists such as Dee Dee Bridgewater, Laurent de Wilde, Milt Jackson, Ulf Wakenius, John Esposito, Joanne Brackeen, Herbie Hancock, Sting, Tony Williams, Ayo, Antonio Farao, and others
April 29, 1954 ~ Punk rock, post punk, new wave singer Debora Iyall, full name Debora Kay Iyall, born in Soap Lake, Washington, USA ~ Lead singer of Romeo Void, with whom she recorded three albums. The band is best known for the songs Never Say Never and A Girl In Trouble (Is A Temporary Thing), the latter reaching Billboard Hot 100 top 40. Following the band's disbandement in 1985 Iyall has recorded as a solo artist, starting with her 1986 Strange Language debut album
April 29, 1953 ~ Singer, producer Bill Drummond born in Butterworth ~ Best known for forming the techno, pop duo the KLF with Jimmy Cauty, one of the worldwide best-selling acts of 1991, scoring sample-rich hits such as 3AM (Eternal), Train To Trancentral, America (What Time Is Love) and Justified & Ancient featuring Tammy Wynette. The duo also recorded under several other monikers including the Justified Ancients Of Mu Mu, Disco 2000 and notabaly scoring the 1988 UK No.1 hit Doctorin' The Tardis under the moniker the Timelords. In 1995 the duo burned £1 million in an art project for their the K Foundation
April 29, 1953 ~ Composer, film composer Jan AP Kaczmarek, full name Jan Andrzey Pawel Kaczmarek, born in Kontin, Poland ~ Has written scores for over 70 films and documentaries, including 2004's Finding Neverland for which he received an Academy Award. Other notable soundtrack credits include Washington Square, Unfaithful, The Visitor, Hachi (A Dog's Tale), and The Karamazovs. Outside the film industry most acclaimed for writing Cantata For Freedom to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Solidarity movement, and Oratorio 1956 commemorating the 50th anniversary of an uprising against the totalitarian government in Poznan, both works premiered live on Polish television ~ Kaczmarek passed away in 2024
April 29, 1952 ~ Latin jazz, smooth jazz, crossover jazz flutist Dave Valentin, full name David Peter Valentin, born in the Bronx, New York, USA ~ Active since his early teens. Started on conga and timbales, switched to flute to get to known a girl in school who played the flute. Mentored by Hubert Laws. Recorded close to two dozen albums as a solo artist or leader, drawing from pop, R&B, Brazilian music to create a slick and accessible form of crossover jazz. Especially acclaimed for his 1988 Live At The Blue Note live album, and for his 1990 Two Amigos collaborative album with Herbie Mann. Has also worked with Noel Pointer, Patti Austin, Lee Ritenour, David Benoit, Eliane Elias, the GRP All-Star Big Band, Scott Cossu, and Nnenna Freelon ~ Valentin passed away in 2017
April 29, 1951 ~ Arthur Hendrickson, commonly known as ska revival, 2 tone singer Arthur Gaps Hendrickson, born ~ Co-founding and key member of the Selecter. Though their success was brief, they are considered one of the most influential early-1980s bands helpful in ushering in the ska revival in their native UK. The band recorded two albums, Too Much Pressure and its follow-up Celebrate The Bullet, before disbanding in 1982. They are best known for their 1979 UK top 10 hit On My Radio, and the subsequent top 30 hits Three Minute Hero and Missing Words. The band has reformed several times in various incarnations, and continued to record well into the 2000s but failed to repeat their earlier success. Hendrickson sang with the band until diagnosed with cancer in 2023. Following his death, Hendrickson's family issued a statement: “Gaps was known the world over for singing the title track on the Selecter's debut album Too Much Pressure, he brought a captivating angst and frustration to the track as he described the trials and tribulations of daily life for the working man” ~ Hendrickson passed away in 2024
April 29, 1951 ~ Bossa nova, jazz singer, guitarist, drummer, songwriter Vinicius Cantuária born in Manaus, Brazil ~ As a leader over a dozen albums to his name since the early-1980s, especially acclaimed for his 2004 Horse & Fish album. Wrote Lua E Estrela, recorded by Caetano Veloso in 1981. Since relocating to the USA Cantuária has become a fixture in the New York jazz scene, and guested on albums by Arto Lindsay, David Byrne (Feelings), Ryuichi Sakamoto, Los Super Seven, Laurie Anderson, Angélique Kidjo, and Bill Frisell
April 29, 1950 ~ Bassist Wayne Secrest born in Alton, Illinois, USA ~ Member of country, outlaw country, country rock outfit Confederate Railroad from its inception in 1987 until retiring from the band in 2017 for health reasons. They are best known for songs such as Jesus And Mama, The Queen Of Memphis and Daddy Never Was The Cadillac Kind ~ Secrest passed away in 2018
April 29, 1949 ~ Latin rock organist Bobby Espinosa born in Los Angeles, California, USA ~ Key figure of the Los Angeles Latin rock scene from the late-1960s through the 2000s, known for his percussive apporach to the Hammond organ. Founding member of El Chicano, drawing from rock, funk, soul, blues, jazz, salsa and best known for early-1970s singles such as Viva Tirado Part I, Brown Eyed Girl and Tell Her She's Lovely ~ Espinosa passed away in 2010
April 29, 1948 ~ Composer, songwriter Clarence Gaskill passed away in New Brighton, New York, USA ~ Popular in the early 20th century. Wrote or co-wrote songs such as Prisoner Of Love (Russ Columbo), Doo Wacka Doo (Paul Whiteman), I Don't Mind Being Alone (Lou Gold), and perhaps his best known I Can't Believe That You're In Love With Me. The latter would be first recorded by Dolores Valesco in 1927 and covered by close to 200 artists including Louis Armstrong, Nat Gonella, Earl Hines, Ella Fitzgerald, Bing Crosby, Tony Bennett, Faron Young, Dinah Washington, Frank Sinatra, and others ~ Gaskill was born in 1892
April 29, 1947 ~ Folk, pop, rock drummer Joel Larson born in San Francisco, California, USA ~ Co-founding member of the Merry-Go-Round, which also included Emitt Rhodes. The band is known for their sole eponymous The Merry-Go-Round debut album released in 1967. Though the album stalled in the low end of the Billboard Hot 200 charts, the band is considered pivotal to the era, noted for their performance at the 1967 Fantasy Fair And Magic Mountain Music Festival, and had several of their songs covered by others including Linda Ronstadt (She's A Very Lovely Woman), and the Bangles (Live). Larson has also worked with the Bedouins and with the Grass Roots. Later on in his career Larson would work as a dance night promoter and work behind the scenes in the movie and TV entertainment industry
April 29, 1947 ~ Thomas Gregory Jackson, commonly known as singer Tommy James born in Dayton, Ohio, USA ~ Fronted 1960s rock band Tommy James & the Shondells, known for the Billboard top 10 hits Hanky Panky, I Think We're Alone Now, Mirage, Mony Mony, Crimson And Clover and Crystal Blue Persuasion
April 29, 1945 ~ Bassist Hugh Hopper, full name Hugh Colin Hopper, born in Canterbury, UK ~ Key figure in the UK's Canterbury scene, especially influential through his membership of Soft Machine and previously Wilde Flowers. Brother of guitarist, saxophonist Brian Hopper, a regular collaborator and bandmate. Well over a dozen albums to his name as a solo artist, starting with 1984 released in 1973. Has worked with Daevid Allen, Syd Barrett (The Madcap Laughs), Stomu Yamashta, Isotope, Gilgamesh, Carla Bley, Equipe Out, In Cahoots, Caveman Hughscore, Robert Wyatt, and others ~ Hopper passed away in 2009
April 29, 1945 ~ Thomasina Winifred Montgomery, commonly known as singer Tammi Terrell, born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA ~ Member of the Sherrys. Spend two years backing James Brown as a member of the James Brown Revue. However, she is best remembered for a number of duets with Marvin Gaye, including Ain't No Mountain High Enough and You're All I Need To Get By. Terrell collapsed on stage in Gaye's arms to be later diagnosed with a brain tumor, of which she passed away at age 24 cutting her fledging career short ~ Terrell passed away in 1970
April 29, 1943 ~ Country, gospel singer Duane Allen, full name Duane David Allen, born in Taylortown, Texas, USA ~ Received formal training in operatic singing before joining country, gospel vocal group the Oak Ridge Boys in 1966. Lead singer on the majority of the band's best known including Elvira, Bobbie Sue and American Made. Married to Norah Lee Allen, backup singer on the Grand Ole Opry
April 29, 1941 ~ Bandleader Jimmy Dorsey & his Orchestra record Blue Champagne ~ Written by Grady Watts, Jimmy Eaton, Frank L Ryerson. Vocals by Bob Eberly. Released the following June, b/w All Alone And Lonely, it would become Dorsey's fifth No.1 single that year. The song would also be recorded by Xavier Cugat, Freddy Martin, and Anita O'Day
April 29, 1941 ~ Frankie Lee Jones, commonly known as soul blues, electric blues singer, songwriter Frankie Lee, born in Mart, Texas, USA ~ Recorded half a dozen albums. notably 1984's The Ladies And The Babies setting the stage for a resurgence of artists straddling the area between soul and blues. Drew comparisons to Otis Redding. Has backed Albert Collins from the mid to late-1960s ~ Jones passed away in 2015
April 29, 1941 ~ Dinahir Tostes Caymmi, commonly known as singer Nana Caymmi, born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil ~ Daughter of Dorival Caymmi and sister of Dori Caymmi and Danilo Caymmi, all singers. Briefly married to Gilberto Gil during the late-1960s. Enjoyed some moderate succes at the time but neither much at home in the Tropicália nor the protest song movement. Would reach mainstream succes in the 1990s, notably with the album Bolero kicking of a string of gold albums
April 29, 1940 ~ Saxophonist, flutist George Adams, full name George Rufus Adams, was born in Covington, Georgia, USA ~ Enjoyed popularity during the 1970s and 1980s. Recorded about two dozen albums as leader or co-leader, often teaming up with Don Pullen. Especially acclaimed for Live At The Village Vanguard Vol.2 and Breakthrough, both co-led with Pullen. Adams is also present on albums by the Fatback Band, Charles Mingus (Changes One), Gil Evans (There Comes A Time), David Sanborn, McCoy Tyner (Horizon), Johnny Copeland, Craig Harris, Phalanx, Craig Harris, and Kip Hanrahan ~ Adams passed away in 1992
April 29, 1938 ~ Bassist Klaus Voormann, full name Klaus Otto Wilhelm Voormann, born in Berlin, Germany ~ Bassist for Manfred Mann from 1966 through 1969. In-demand session musician for the like of Lou Reed (Transformer), Carly Simon (No Secrets), James Taylor, Harry Nilsson, John Lennon (Imagine), George Harrison, Ringo Starr, Badfinger, Donovan, Peter Frampton, Randy Newman, Loudon Wainwright III, and others. Also known as a graphic designer, responsible for album covers for a number of artists including the Beatles (Revolver), the Bee Gees, and Turbonegro
April 29, 1937 ~ Singer, guitarist, drummer, keyboardist, songwriter Hasil Adkins born in Boone County, West Virginia, USA ~ Encompasses rock & roll, country, blues, rockabilly. Foreshadowed psychobilly with songs such as She Said, later covered by the Cramps, and Let Me Come In, covered by Flat Duo Jets ~ Adkins passed away in 2005
April 29, 1937 ~ Walter Williams, commonly known as Chicago blues guitarist, singer Lefty Dizz, born in Osceola, Arkansas, USA ~ Earned his nickname by playing a right-handed Stratocaster left-handed. Noted for his energetic flamboyant stage presence. Best known for fronting Shock Treatment and for his associations with Junior Wells, JB Lenoir and Hound Dog Taylor. Has also worked with Lacy Gibson, Earl Hooker, Junior Cannady, John Lee Hooker, Johnny Big Moose Walker, Louisiana Red, and others. Also appears on Muddy Waters' 1981 live album Live At The Checkerboard Lounge which also featured the Rolling Stones-members Mick Jagger, Keith Richards and Ron Wood ~ Williams passed away in 1993
April 29, 1937 ~ Willy Cecile Johannes van de Velde, commonly known as folk singer, guitarist Wannes van de Velde, born in Antwerp ~ Considered one of the leading Flemish kleinkunst artists, along Willem Vermandere and Zjef Vanuytsel. Known for singing in local dialect. Well known songs of his include Ik Wil Deze Nacht In De Straten Verdwalen, Mijn Mansaarde and De Brug Van Willebroek ~ Van de Velde passed away in 2008
April 29, 1936 ~ Singer Albee Cracolici born ~ Co-founding member of doo-wop, vocal R&B group the Mystics, best known for their 1959 hit Hushabye written by Doc Pomus and Mort Shuman
April 29, 1936 ~ Caroline Vincinetti LoTempio, commonly known as singer April Stevens, born in Niagara Falls, New York, USA ~ Known for the early-1950s hits I'm In Love Again and Gimme Me A Little Kiss (Will Ya Huh), as well as for her 1959 recording Teach Me Tiger which was banned from radio for its sexual innuendo. Perhaps best known for her collaborations with her brother Nino Tempo, including the 1963 recording Deep Purple which reached No.1 on the Billboard Hot 100 charts ~ LoTempio passed away in 2023
April 29, 1936 ~ Conductor, music director Zubin Mehta born in Bombay, India ~ Worked with the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra, the Los Angeles Philharmonic, the Montreal Symphony Orchestra, the New York Philharmonic, the Maggio Musicale Fiorentino. Honorary member of the Vienna State Opera, the Bavarian State Opera and the Teatro San Carlo
April 29, 1935 ~ Edward Smackels Jr, commonly known as lyricist, songwriter Ed Rose passed away in Evanston, Illinois, USA ~ Best known for writing the lyrics of Oh Johnny Oh Johnny, music composed by Abe Olman, recorded by the Premier Quartet, the Andrews Sisters, Bonnie Baker, Peggy Lee, Ella Fitzgerald, and others ~ Smackels was born in 1875
April 29, 1935 ~ Blues singer, pianist, songwriter Leroy Carr passed away in Indianapolis, Indiana, USA ~ Known for his laid-back style. Early influence on T-Bone Walker, Amos Milburn, Jimmy Witherspoon, Nat King Cole, Ray Charles. Enjoyed a good run of well-charting songs, starting with his 1928 debut single How Long How Long Blues, until his death at age 30. Other well known songs include Blues Before Sunrise, Midnight Hour Blues and Hurry Down Sunshine. Had his songs covered by Robert Johnson, Big Bill Broonzy, Moon Mullican, Champion Jack Dupree, Long John Baldry, Memphis Slim, Eric Clapton, and others ~ Carr was born in 1905
April 29, 1934 ~ Otis Rush Jr, commonly known as blues guitarist, singer Otis Rush, born in Philadelphia, Mississippi, USA ~ Important 1950s blues guitarist, merging Chicago blues with R&B-influences. Influential on Michael Bloomfield, Peter Green and Eric Clapton. Known for songs such as I Can't Quit You Baby, Double Trouble and All Your Love (I Miss Loving) ~ Rush passed away in 2018
April 29, 1933 ~ R&B, rock & roll, blues tenor saxophonist, singer Raymond Hill, full name Raymond Earl Hill, born in Clarksdale, Mississippi, USA ~ Closely associated with Ike Turner, as a member of Turner's R&B unit the Kings Of Rhythm present on the classic Rocket '88. In-demand session musician, appearing on recordings by Howlin' Wolf, Little Junior Parker (Mystery Train), Jessie Hill, Clayton Love, and others ~ Hill passed away in 1996
April 29, 1933 ~ Singer, poet, songwriter, actor Rod McKuen, full name Rodney Marvin McKuen, born in Oakland, California, USA ~ One of the best-selling poets of the late-1960s. Wrote or co-wrote over 1,500 songs, recorded by a wide array of artists including Robert Goulet, Barbra Streisand, Waylon Jennings, Johnny Cash, the Kingston Trio, Nana Mouskouri, Dusty Springfield, Al Hirt, and Frank Sinatra. Renowned film composer, including earning Academy Award-nominations for The Prime Of Miss Jean Brodie and A Boy Named Charlie Brown. Known for songs such as Love's Been Good To Me, The World I Used To Know, I've Been To Town, Kaleidoscope, Merci Beaucoup, Doesn't Anybody Know My Name and Soldiers Who Want To Be Heroes ~ McKuen passed away in 2015
April 29, 1933 ~ Singer, guitarist, songwriter Willie Nelson, full name Willie Hugh Nelson, born in Abbott, Texas, USA ~ Iconic figure in country. Spearheaded the Outlaw country movement in the 1970s. Critically acclaimed for concept albums such as Shotgun Willie and Red Headed Stranger. Renowned songwriter with several country classics to his name including Billy Walker's Funny How Time Slips Away, Faron Young's Hello Walls, Roy Orbison's Pretty Paper and Patsy Cline's Crazy. Member of country supergroup the Highwaymen alongside Johnny Cash, Kris Kristofferson and frequent collaborator Waylon Jennings
April 29, 1932 ~ Jazz bassist Andy Simpkins born in Richmond, Indiana, USA ~ Leader and sideman. Member of the Three Sounds from 1956 through 1968. Also worked with George Shearing, Sarah Vaughan, Carmen McRae, Anita O'Day, Gerald Wiggins, Monty Alexander, Buddy DeFranco, Don Menza, Stéphane Grappelli, and Pat Boone ~ Simpkins passed away in 1999
April 29, 1931 ~ Singer, trumpeter Louis Armstrong records Them There Eyes ~ Written by Maceo Pinkard, Doris Tauber, William Tracy. Published in 1930. Armstrong's version counts as one of the earliest popular versions, preceded though by Hal Kemp and Bing Crosby in 1930. The song would however become most closely associated with Billie Holiday who recorded a version in 1939 for Vocalion Records. Others who have subsequently covered the song included Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald and Caterina Valente in the 1950s, Peggy Lee, Carmen McRae, Sarah Vaughan and Kenny Ball in the 1960s, Diana Ross in 1972 for the Lady Sings The Blues Holiday bio-pic soundtrack, Barbara Cook, Chaka Khan and Nancy Wilson in the 1980s, Oscar Peterson in the 1990s, Aretha Franklin in the 2000s, and as a collaborative effort by Beth Hart and Joe Bonamassa in 2013
April 29, 1930 ~ Jazz drummer Joe Porcaro born in New Britain, Connecticut, USA ~ Father of Toto musicians Jeff Porcaro, Mike Porcaro, Steve Porcaro. Leader and sideman. Has worked with Natalie Cole, Don Ellis, Stan Getz, Freddie Hubbard, Gladys Knight, Madonna, the Monkees, Gerry Mulligan, Pink Floyd, Frank Sinatra, Sarah Vaughan, Rosemary Clooney, Lalo Schifrin, Mike Mainieri, Emitt Rhodes, Louie Bellson, Bonnie Raitt, Glen Campbell, Eric Carmen, Cheryl Lynn, Randy Crawford, Yvonne Elliman, Donna Summer, Sérgio Mendes, Roger Kellaway, Joe Cocker, Diana Krall, Harry Connick Jr, and others ~ Porcaro passed away in 2020
April 29, 1929 ~ Conga player Ray Barretto born in New York, New York, USA ~ Leader and sideman. Sampled by Urban Dance Squad. Worked with Charlie Parker, Jose Curbelo, Tito Puente, Adalberto Santiago, the Fania All-Stars, Sonora Matancera, Celia Cruz, the New World Spirit, Gene Ammons, the Bee Gees, Kenny Burrell, Arnett Cobb, Ray Bryant, Billy Cobham, Eddie Lockjaw Davis, Eumir Deodato, Jimmy Forrest, Dizzy Gillespie, Slide Hampton, Bill Doggett, Art Farmer, Eddie Harris, Willis Jackson, Yusef Lateef, Junior Mance, Clifford Jordan, Herbie Mann, Wes Montgomery, Michel Sardaby, Sonny Stitt, Jack McDuff, the Weather Report, Charles Williams, Julius Watkins, Frank Wess, and others ~ Barretto passed away in 2016
April 29, 1928 ~ R&B singer Carl Gardner, full name Carl Edward Gardner, born in Tyler, Texas, USA ~ Key member of the Robins including on the 1955 hit Smokey Joe's Cafe. Best known as co-founding member of the Coasters, scoring a number of mid- to late-1950s hits pivotal to the development of rock & roll including Young Blood, Yakety Yak, Charlie Brown and Poison Ivy ~ Gardner passed away in 2011
April 29, 1922 ~ Jean Baptiste Frederic Isidor Thielemans, commonly known as harmonica player, guitarist, composer Toots Thielemans, born in Brussels, Belgium ~ Preeminent jazz harmonica player. Closely associated with friend, fan, frequent collaborator Quincy Jones. Best known for his composition Bluesette, for a number of soundtracks, and for his many collaborations. Over the course of his career Thielemans has worked with Sidney Bechet, Charlie Parker, Miles Davis, Max Roach, Benny Goodman, Dinah Washington, George Shearing, Ella Fitzgerald, Pat Metheny, Jaco Pastorius, Stéphane Grappelli, JJ Johnson, Oscar Peterson, Shirley Horn, Joe Pass, Bill Evans, Peggy Lee, Elis Regina, Billy Joel, Julian Lennon, John Denver, Dizzy Gillespie, Urbie Green, Brook Benton, James Last, Joe Lovano, and Paul Simon ~ Thielemans passed away in 2016
April 29, 1920 ~ Composer, pianist Harold Shapero, full name Harold Samuel Shapiro, born in Lynn, Massachusetts, USA ~ Initially played jazz, notably with the swing ensemble the Hal Kenny Orchestra, but would later gravitate towards contemporary classical. Well known compositions include Nine-Minute Overture, Symphony For Classical Orchestra, Serenade In D, and Credo ~ Shapero passed away in 2013
April 29, 1919 ~ Choral conductor, composer Stephen Wilkinson, full name Stephen Austin Wilkinson, born in Cambridgeshire, UK ~ Conducted the Hertford Choir. Staff musician with the BBC for over 25 years starting in 1953, best known for his work with the BBC Northern Singers. Has also guested with the RTE Singers, het Nederlands Kamerkoor, and others. Father of mezzo-soprano singer Clare Wilkinson ~ Wilkinson passed away in 2021
April 29, 1908 ~ Jazz trumpeter Philippe Brun born in Paris, France ~ Worked with Gregor, Danny Polo, Ray Ventura, Bert Ambrose, Jack Hylton, Fred Waring, Django Reinhardt, Alix Combelle, Eddie Brunner, André Ekyan, Edmond Cohanier, and Teddy Stauffer ~ Brun passed away in 1994
April 29, 1907 ~ Constantin Rossi, commonly known as cabaret, pop singer, actor Tino Rossi, born in Ajaccio, France ~ Reportedly recorded over 2,000 songs and appeared in more than 25 films. Best known for his 1946 hit Petit Papa Noel which sold over 30 million copies worldwide ~ Rossi passed away in 1983
April 29, 1906 ~ Jazz trumpeter, scat singer Ward Pinkett, full name William Ward Pinkett Jr, born in Newsport News, Virginia, USA ~ Active during the Harlem Renaissance. Worked with King Oliver, James P Johnson, Chick Webb and with Jelly Roll Morton. Plagued by alcoholism Pinkett was admired as a musician but regarded as an unreliable band member. In poor health he died of pneumonia at age 30 ~ Pinkett passed away in 1937
April 29, 1905 ~ Pianist, composer Ignacio Cervantes, full name Ignacio Cervantes Kawanag, passed away in Havana, Cuba ~ Child prodigy. Would go on to become highly influential in the creolization of Cuban music. Would flee Cuba in 1875 after being warned by the government for raising money to fund the rebel cause, to return in later years. Known for his opera Maledetto, chamber pieces, zarzuelas, and songbooks. Father of María Cervantes, pianist, singer, composer ~ Cervantes was born in 1847
April 29, 1903 ~ Frank Ciccio, commonly known as singer Frank Parker, born in New York, New York, USA ~ Active since the 1920. Best known as tenor singer in Harry Horlick's orchestra and as a singer for various radio show throughout the 1950s, working with personalities such as Jack Benny, George Burns, and Arthur Godfrey. Hosted his own radio show That Atlantic Family On Tour, syndicated on CBS Radio stations ~ Ciccio passed away in 1999
April 29, 1899 ~ Edward Kennedy Ellington, commonly known as bandleader, composer Duke Ellington, born in Washington DC, USA ~ Colossal figure in jazz, wrote over 1,000 songs and led the Duke Ellington Orchestra for about 5 decades from the early-1920s until his death in the mid-1970s. Known best for hits such as East St Louis Toodle-oo, Three Little Words, Sophisticated Lady, Stormy Weather, Cocktails For Two, Solitude, Cotton, Oh Babel Maybe Someday, I Let A Song Go Out Of My Heart and perhaps his best known Take The A-Train ~ Ellington passed away in 1974
April 29, 1879 ~ Conductor, impresario Thomas Beecham born in St Helens, UK ~ Especially known as an advocate of lesser known composers such as Frederick Delius and Hector Berlioz. Closely associated with the London Philharmonic Orchestra, the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and the Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra ~ Beecham passed away in 1961