December 16, 2023 ~ Bossa nova singer, guitarist, songwriter Carlos Lyra, full name Carlos Eduardo Lyra Barbosa, passed away ~ Helped define bossa nova. Among the first songwriters to be recorded by João Gilberto. Frequent songwriting collaborator of Ronaldo Bôscoli, Geraldo Vandré, Vinicius de Moraes. Known for songs such as Quanda Chegares, Criticando, Voce E Eu, Lobo Bobo, Aruanda, and Quem Quiser Encontrar O Amor ~ Lyra was born in 1939
December 16, 2022 ~ Singer, songwriter Jean-Paul Corbineau passed away in Nantes, France ~ Co-founding member of Tri Yann along with Jean Chocun and Jean-Louis Jossic, a folk rock band known for drawing from traditional folk ballads. Well known songs include La Jument De Michao, Dans Les Prisons De Nantes, and Bro Gosh Ma Zadou ~ Corbineau was born in 1948
December 16, 2021 ~ Leonard Nelson Hubbard, commonly known as hip-hop, funk, R&B bassist Hub, passed away ~ Classically trained pianist. Best known as bassist, upright bassist, member of the Roots from 1992 through 2007, notably present on albums such as Things Fall Apart and The Tipping Point ~ Hubbard was born ca.1959
December 16, 2021 ~ Robert George Porter, commonly known as pop, country, rock guitarist, producer Robie Porter, passed away ~ Enjoyed regional succes in the Sydney area during the 1960s, going by the moniker Rob EG, with singles such as Your Cheatin' Heart, Si Senor (I Theenk), Jezabel, 55 Days At Peking, and When You're Not Near. Had his biggest succes as a producer starting in the early-1970s, notably producing Daddy Cool's 1971 debut album Daddy Who (Daddy Cool). Helpful in advancing Rick Springfield's career. Co-wrote Marcia Hines's Shining of her 1976 album of the same name. Has also served as producer for Air Supply, Tommy Emmanuel, Supernaut, and others ~ Porter was born in 1941
December 16, 2021 ~ Pop rock bassist, singer Terry Uttley passed away ~ Member of Smokie, present on the band's best known including If You Think You Know How To Love Me, Don't Play Your Rock 'n Roll To Me, I'll Meet You At Midnight, Living Next Door To Alice, Lay Back In The Arms Of Someone, and others ~ Uttley was born ca.1951
December 16, 2021 ~ R&B, soul, pop singer Wanda Young, full name Wanda LaFaye Young, passed away ~ Member of pivotal Motown girl group the Marvelettes. Sang backup on Please Mr Postman. Lead vocalist on songs such as Don't Mess With Bill, I'll Keep Holding On, and The Hunter Gets Captured By The Game. Young retired from music when the group disbanded in 1972 ~ Young was born in 1943
December 16, 2020 ~ Film, TV composer, conductor, pianist, music director Emil Cadkin, full name Emil Milton Cadkin, passed away ~ Frequent collaborator of William Loose and Harry Bluestone. Best known for his work as composer for film, TV series and cartoons from the 1940s through the 1960s, notably Gumby and Hanna-Barbera's Augie Doggie ~ Cadkin was born in 1920
December 16, 2020 ~ Saxophonist, clarinetist Jeff Clayton passed away ~ Brother of bassist John Clayton, with whom he also worked under the moniker the Clayton Brothers. Founded the Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra with drummer Jeff Hamilton. In-demand sideman and session musician. Worked with Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr, Ella Fitzgerald, Ethan Smith, Lena Horne, Thad Jones, Gene Harris, Dianne Reeves, Joe Cocker, BB King, Ray Charles, Gladys Knight, Kenny Rogers, Michael Jackson, Patti Labelle, Madonna, and others ~ Clayton was born in 1954
December 16, 2018 ~ Singer, songwriter Anca Pop passed away in Svinita, Romania ~ Debuted in 2017 with her eponymous studio album, Anca Pop, which spawned the singles Free Love, Super Cool, Ring Around, and Loco Poco ~ Pop was born in 1984
December 16, 2017 ~ Jazz drummer Grassella Oliphant passed away in Summit, New Jersey, USA ~ Recorded two soul-jazz albums as a leader, The Grass Roots released in 1965 and its acclaimed follow-up The Grass Is Greener three years later with an all-star cast featuring Harold Ousley, John Patton, Grant Green, Clark Terry, and Major Holley. Songs from the latter would later be regularly sampled by hip hop artists. Oliphant has been active since the early-1950s, first gaining serious attention backing Ahmad Jamal. Oliphant would go on to appear on albums by Tony Scott, Gloria Lynne (I'm Glad There Is You), Herman Foster, Joe Kennedy Jr, and Shirley Scott (Soul Shoutin') ~ Oliphant was born in 1929
December 16, 2017 ~ Dorothy Jacqueline Keely, commonly known as jazz, traditional pop singer Keely Smith, passed away in Palm Springs, California, USA ~ Best known for her work with Louis Prima, including on hits such as I've Got You Under My Skin, Bei Mir Bist Du Schoen and That Old Black Magic. As a solo artist, she is known for songs such as I Wish You Love and You're Breaking My Heart. Smith was married to Prima from 1953 until 1961, with whom she had two children. While still married to Prima, Keely had an affair with Frank Sinatra. Smith's second marriage was to record producer Jimmy Bowen, with whom she was married from 1965 until 1969 ~ Keely was born in 1928
December 16, 2017 ~ Jazz, avant-garde, experimental rock singer, saxophonist, clarinetist Ralph Carney passed away in Portland, Oregon, USA ~ Plays a multitude of instruments, including the obscure and unusual. Perhaps best known as Tom Waits's hornist, present on albums such as Rain Dogs, Bone Machine, and Mule Variations. Founding member of experimental rock outfit Tin Huey, best known for their 1979 Contents Dislodged During Shipment album. Recorded over half a dozen albums as a solo artist, starting with Happiness Finally Came To Them released in 1987. In-demand sideman, present on recordings by Randy Vanwarmer, the B52's, Elvis Costello (King Of America), Galaxie 500, Marc Ribot, Oranj Symphonette, and Grant Lee Buffalo ~ Carney was born in 1956
December 16, 2017 ~ Folk, country, outlaw country singer, guitarist, songwriter Richard Dobson, full name Richard James Joseph Dobson II, passed away in Diessenhofen, Switzerland ~ One of the most literate country songwriters to come out of Texas, akin to Townes Van Zandt and Guy Clark. Called “the Ernest Hemingway of Country music” by Nanci Griffith who covered his The Ballad Of Robin Wintersmith. About two dozen albums to his name, starting with In Texas Last December released in 1977. Perhaps best known for penning Baby Ride Easy, recorded by Dobson in 1977 and covered by several artists, including as a duet by Del Reeves & Billie Jo Spears, by Carlene Carter & Dave Edmunds, and by Johnny Cash & June Carter ~ Dobson was born in 1942
December 16, 2015 ~ Thomas Leslie Garrett, commonly known as producer Snuff Garrett, passed away in Tucson, Arizona, USA ~ Became a staff producer at Liberty Records in 1959 eventually rising to head of A&R. Has worked with Johnny Burnette, Bobby Vee, Gene McDaniels, Buddy Knox, Walter Brennan, Gary Lewis & the Playboys, Del Shannon, the Monkees, Phil Spector, Leon Russell, Lenny Waronker, Sonny & Cher, Cher, Tommy Tedesco, Sonny Curtis, Vicki Lawrence, Tanya Tucker, Johnny Mann SIngers, and others ~ Garrett was born in 1938
December 16, 2013 ~ Country, western swing, traditional pop singer Ray Price, full name Noble Ray Price passed away in Mt Pleasant, Texas, USA ~ Blessed with a warm, smooth baritone voice and influenced by honky tonk and jazz Price is considered one of the best male singers in country history. Known for songs such as Release Me, Crazy Arms, Heartaches By The Number, Invitation To The Blues, For The Good Times, Night Life and You're The Best Thing That Ever Happened To Me. His backing band, the Cherokee Cowboys formed in 1953, at times included musicians such as Roger Miller, Willie Nelson, Darrell McCall, Van Howard, Johnny Paycheck, Johnny Bush, Buddy Emmons, Pete Wade, Jan Kurtis, Shorty Lavender, and Buddy Spicher ~ Price was born in 1926
December 16, 2009 ~ Jazz pianist, vibraphonist Terry Pollard born ~ Worked with Billy Mitchell, Elvin Jones, Johnny Hill, Emmitt Slay, Terry Gibbs, John Coltrane, Charlie Parker, Miles Davis, Chet Baker, Nat King Cole, Dinah Washington, Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald, Yusef Lateef, Dorothy Ashby, and Don Fagerquist ~ Pollard was born in 1931
December 16, 2004 ~ Pop, R&B producer, songwriter Freddie Perren, full name Frederick James Perren, passed away in Chasworth, California, USA ~ Member of revered Motown production, songwriting team the Corporation. Moved from Motown soul to disco in the 1970s. Co-wrote and produced songs such as Boogie Fever for the Sylvers, I Will Survive for Gloria Gaynor, and Shake Your Groove Thing for Peaches & Herb. Also worked with artists such as the Jackson 5, the Miracles, Tavares, New Edition, and others ~ Perren was born in 1943
December 16, 2004 ~ Irene Amburgey, commonly known as country, gospel singer, guitarist, songwriter Martha Carson, passed away ~ At times referred to as “the Rockin' Queen of Happy Spirituals” enjoying popularity in the 1950s with gospel-country tunes such as Satisfied, Journey To The Sky, and Saints And Chariot. Cited by Elvis Presley as in influence on his gospel singing ~ Amburgey was born in 1921
December 16, 2003 ~ Singer, songwriter Gary Stewart passed away in Fort Pierce, Florida, USA ~ Dubbed “the King of Honky-tonk” by Time Magazine. Known for a string of 1970s hits including She's Acting Single (I'm Drinking Doubles), Drinking Thing, and Your Place Or Mine. Has also written songs recorded by other singers such as for Billy Walker (She Goes Walking Through My Mind, Traces Of A Woman), Cal Smith (You Can't Housebreak A Tomcat), and Nat Stuckey (Sweet Thang And Cisco). Has also briefly played in Charley Pride's backing unit the Pridesmen ~ Stewart was born in 1944
December 16, 2002 ~ Hip hop, hardcore hip hop rapper Ja Rule releases Mesmerize featuring Ashanti, lifted off his The Last Temptation album ~ Produced by Irv Gotti and Chink Santana. Samples the 1974 Stop Look Listen (To Your Heart) by Diana Ross and Marvin Gaye. Notably featuring singer Ashanti, the song reached No.2 Billboard Hot 100, making it the fourth consecutive single featuring the pair to reach the American top 10, after Rule's Always On Time, Fat Joe's What's Luv, and Gotti's Down 4 U
December 16, 2001 ~ Singer, guitarist Stuart Adamson, full name William Stuart Adamson, passed away in Honolulu, Hawaii, USA ~ Co-founding member of punk rock, new wave unit the Skids, known best for their 1979 UK top 10 hit Into The Valley co-written by Adamson. Following his departure from the band in 1981 Adamson would form and front Big Country, scoring several top 10 hits through the mid-1980s including Wonderland and Look Away. The band would retain a cult following throughout the late-1990s. In the early-2000s Adamson formed the alternative country duo the Raphaels with Marcus Hummon, known for their sole Supernatural released in 2001. The band only played a handful of sets, with Adamson failing to show up for a concert date. He was found dead in a Hawaii hotel room after hanging himself with an electrical chord ~ Adamson was born in 1958
December 16, 1997 ~ Pop, rock, country singer, guitarist Nicolette Larson passed away in Los Angeles, California, USA ~ Member of Commander Cody & his Lost Planet Airmen. As a solo artist best known for her 1978 hit Lotta Love. In-demand backing vocalist. Worked with Neil Young, Steve Wariner, Guy Clark, Hoyt Axton, Mary Kay Place, Rodney Crowell, Billy Joe Shaver, Jesse Colin Young, Jesse Winchester, Gary Stewart, Emmylou Harris (notably on Hello Stranger from the 1977 album Luxury Liner), Linda Ronstadt, Norton Buffalo, the Doobie Brothers, Christopher Cross, Dirt Band, Tom Johnston, Graham Nash, Albert Hammond, Rita Coolidge, Van Halen, and others ~ Larson was born in 1952
December 16, 1997 ~ Singer Zara Larsson born in Stockholm, Sweden ~ First gained attention as a contestant on the Swedish talent show Talang in 2008. Released a debut EP, Introducing, in 2013. Its accompanying single Uncover would top the charts throughout Scandinavia. Larsson's full-length debut album, 2017's So Good, would spawn several international hit singles including Lush Life, Symphony and Never Forget You. The latter would reach No.13 on the American Billboard Hot 100
December 16, 1990 ~ Donat Roy Mittoo, commonly known as keyboardist, singer, songwriter Jackie Mittoo, passed away in Toronto, Canada ~ Musical director at Studio One Records. Best known as a member of the Skatalites. Also served as a member of the Sheiks, the Soul Brothers, the Soul Vendors, and of Sound Dimension. His song Peanie Wallie was reworked into Duppy Conqueror, made famous by Bob Marley. Co-wrote Armagideon ime, later covered by the Clash. Worked extensively with producer Bunny Lee. Also worked with Sugar Minott, and with Musical Youth ~ Mittoo passed away in 1948
December 16, 1989 ~ Singer, percussionist Pattie Santos passed away ~ Member of It's A Beautiful Day from 1967 through 1970, best known for their 1969 single White Bird of their eponymous It's A Beautiful Day debut album ~ Santos was born in 1949
December 16, 1985 ~ Raven-Symoné Christina Pearman, commonly known as actress, R&B singer Raven-Symoné born in Atlanta, Georgia, USA ~ Started as a child actress, notably on The Cosby Show, Hangin' With Mr Cooper and the Disney series That's So Raven. As a singer debuted at age 7 with the album Here's To New Dreams, spawning the modest hit That's What Little Girls Are Made Of featuring Missy Elliott. Continues to enjoy a successful career, mostly as an actress for TV and film, and a modest career as a solo singer and as a member of the Cheetah Girls
December 16, 1984 ~ Derek Johnson Jr, commonly known as Christian hip-hop rapper, singer Derek Minor, born in Pontiac, Michigan, USA ~ Member of 116 Clique. Active as a solo artist since 2008. Best known for songs such as Who You Know, Change The World featuring Hollyn, and Fresh Prince. Has guested on recordings by Chris Cobbins, Tedashii, Lecrae, J'son, Aaron Cole, and others
December 16, 1982 ~ Guitarist, singer, songwrite Chris Scruggs, full name Christopher Alan Davies Scruggs, born ~ Son of songwriter Gary Scruggs and singer, songwriter Gail Davies. Paternal grandson of banjo player Earl Scruggs. Maternal grandson of country singer Tex Dickerson. Multi-instrumentalist, guitar, bass, mandolin, fiddle, drums. Best known as guitarist and co-lead singer of BR549 from 2002 to 2005. Wrote the band's Tangled In The Pines. In-demand sideman. Has worked with Charlie Louvin, Andrew Bird, Ray Price, Robbie Fulks, Giant Sand, Peter Noone, Bobby Bare, Michael Nesmith, She & Him, Suzy Bogguss, Marty Stuart, and others. Released his first solo album, Anthem, in 2009
December 16, 1982 ~ Country singer, guitarist Frankie Ballard, full name Frank Robert Ballard IV, born in Battle Creek, Michigan, USA ~ Debuted with the eponymous Frankie Ballard album in 2011. Best known for songs such as Helluva Life, Sunshine & Whiskey and Young And Crazy, all of which reached the Billboard Country top 10 and all included on Ballard's sophomore Sunshine & Whiskey album released in 2014
December 16, 1982 ~ Rock & roll, novelty singer Jack Ross passed away ~ Known for a number of early-1960s singles including Cinderella, Margarita and Happy Jose (Ching Ching) ~ Ross was born in 1916
December 16, 1981 ~ Pastor, worship, contemporary Christian music singer, songwriter Eddie Kirkland, full name William Edward Kirkland Jr, born in Tarrant, Texas, USA ~ Not to be confused with namesake electric blues guitarist, singer Eddie Kirkland. Founder and pastor of Parish Anglican Church, Atlanta, Georgia. As a singer has released a number of EPs starting in the late-2000s and the full-length Kings & Queens album in 2012
December 16, 1981 ~ Emmanuel Rodriguez, commonly known as Christian rap, reggaeton singer Manny Montes born in Puerto Rico ~ Actively recording since the early-2000s, first gaining attention guesting on Double Impact's Mas Que Vencedores of their Juventud Despierta debut album. Released his own Realidadas debut album the following year. Has recorded prolifically since and has become an in-demand collaborator working with the likes of 116 Clique, Funky, Redimi2, Alex Zurdo, Indiomar, Farruko, Mexicano 777, and others
December 16, 1980 ~ Jazz trombonist Keith Christie, full name Keith Ronald Christie, passed away in London, UK ~ Brother of clarinetist Ian Christie, bandmate in the Christie Brothers Stompers. Also worked with Humphrey Lyttelton, Ken Colyer, Dicky Hawdon, Johnny Dankworth, Cleo Laine, George Chisholm, Harry Klein, Kenny Baker, Vic Ash, Wally Fawkes, Tommy Whittle, Ted Heath, Don Lusher, Allan Ganley, Ronnie Ross, Art Ellefson, Vic Lewis., Jimmy Deuchar, Harry South, Benny Goodman, Tubby Hayes, Paul Gonsalves, Ian Hamer, Stan Tracey, Kenny Wheeler, Bobby Lamb, Ray Premru, Phil Seamen, Tony Kinsey, and others ~ Christie was born in 1931
December 16, 1978 ~ Jazz singer, bandleader, composer Blanche Calloway, full name Blanche Dorothea Jones Calloway, passed away in Baltimore, Maryland, USA ~ Older sister of Cab Calloway, on whom she had a profound influence. First woman to lead an all-male orchestra. Has worked with Eubie Blake and Noble Sissle in the 1921 Shuffle Along musical. Other collaborations include Louis Armstrong, Cozy Cole, Chick Webb, Andy Kirk, Ben Webster, Bennie Moten, and Zack Whyte ~ Calloway was born in 1902
December 16, 1978 ~ Virgina Lucille Overstake, commonly known as country singer, guitarist, songwriter Jenny Lou Carson, passed away in Los Angeles, California, USA ~ Wrote over 170 songs including Tex Ritter's 1945 hits Jealous Heart and You Two Timed Me One Time Too Often. The latter would be the first country No.1 written by a female songwriter. Others who recorded songs written or co-written by Carson include Roy Acuff, Eddy Arnold, Ernest Tubb, her brother-in-law Red Foley, Hank Snow, Patti Page, Gene Autry, and others ~ Overstake was born in 1915
December 16, 1975 ~ Alternative rock, punk rock, post-hardcore singer, drummer, guitarist, songwriter Benjamin Kowalewicz born in Montreal, Canada ~ Member of To Each His Own which changed their name to Pezz, known for their 1998 Watoosh album, and later still again changed their name to Billy Talent. Guested on recordings by Cancer Bats, Anti-Flag, K-OS, and Emigrate
December 16, 1975 ~ Guitarist, keyboardist, percussionist, singer Jake Cinninger, full name Jacob Alan Cinninger, born in Nilese, Michigan, USA ~ Joined jam band Umphreys McGee in 2000 as second lead guitarist, the other being original member, singer Brendan Bayliss. Influenced by Joe Pass, Tommy Emmanuel, Chris Poland, Randy Rhoads, George Benson, David Gilmour, Frank Zappa, and Roy Buchanan
December 16, 1974 ~ Rock, hard rock singer, guitarist, pianist, songwriter Damond Jiniya born in Palm Springs, California, USA ~ Best known for briefly fronting Savatage and for his work with electro-metal outfit Diet Of Worms from 1997 through 2004
December 16, 1974 ~ Heavy metal, power metal guitarist Daniel Antonsson born in Sweden ~ Member of Dimension Zero. Has also worked with Dark Tranquility, present on We Are The Void. Other associations include Soilwork, Pathos, Meridian Dawn, and supergroup Akani
December 16, 1973 ~ Marisa dos Neis Nuns, commonly known as fado singer Mariza, born in Maputo, Mozambique ~ Considered an important figure in the New Fado movement. Active since the late-1990s. Internationally renowned. Best known for songs such as Feira De Castro, O Tempo Não Para and Melhor De Mim
December 16, 1972 ~ Country singer Don Williams releases the self-penned The Shelter Of Your Eyes, lead single off his Don Williams Volume One debut album ~ Williams' debut single would reach an impressive No.14 on the Billboard Country charts, setting him off on a path to become one of the most successful country singers of the 1970s and 1980s, racking up well over a dozen Billboard Country No.1 hits over the course of his career. The Shelter Of Your Eyes is noted especially for being one of his few self-penned tunes to be a charting single. The song would notably be covered by Lobo for his 1975 Just A Singer album
December 16, 1972 ~ Pop, R&B singer Michael McCary born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA ~ Best known as bass singer of R&B boy band Boyz II Men. known for hits such as Motownphilly, It's So Hard To Say Goodbye To Yesterday, End Of The Road, I'll Make Love To You, On Bended Knee, Water Runs Dry, 4 Seasons Of Loneliness, One Sweet Day with Mariah Carey and Hey Lover with LL Cool J, all of which reached the Billboard top 10. McCary would leave the band in 2003 for medical reasons, the rest of the band continuing as a trio
December 16, 1971 ~ Matthias Paul, commonly known as trance, house, progressive house, electro house DJ, producer Paul van Dyk, born in Eisenhüttenstadt, East Germany ~ Best known for a number of late-1990s, early 2000 recordings, songs such as We Are Alive, Nothing But You featuring Hemstock & Jennings, The Time Of Our Lives featuring Vega4, and Wir Sind Wir featuring Peter Heppner all reaching the top 20 in his native Germany
December 16, 1969 ~ Heavy metal guitarist, bassist Marios Iliopoulos born in Thessaloniki, Greece ~ Co-founding member of melodic death metal band Nightrage. Has also worked with Exhumation, Dragonland, Dies Irae, Septic Flesh, Firewind, Mystic Prophecy, Universum, the Forsaken, and others
December 16, 1968 ~ R&B, soul, jazz, gospel singer Lalah Hathaway born in Chicago, Illinois, USA ~ Daughter of singer Donny Hathaway. Debuted in 1990 with the album A Moment, spawning the hit Heaven Knows, and has recorded to mixed success since. Has collaborated with BEF (Family Affair), Grover Washington Jr, the Winans, Marcus Miller, Gerald Albright, Pete Escovedo, Wayman Tisdale, Roy Hargrove, David Sanborn, Ken Hirai, Donald Lawrence, Meshell Ndegeocello, George Benson, Kirk Whalum, Snarky Puppy, Dianne Reeves, Al Jarreau, Common, Kendrick Lamar, Terri Lyne Carrington, Gregory Porter, Charlie Wilson, Esperanza Spalding, José James, and others
December 16, 1963 ~ Jeffrey Lee Herndon, commonly known as country singer, bassist Jeff Carson, born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA ~ Sessioned and worked as a demo singer until his 1995 eponymous Jeff Carson debut album, which spawned three Billboard Country top 10 hits with Not On Your Love, The Car and Holdin' Onto Somethin'. Carson would be unable to repeat the succes but continued to record, reaching the country charts with songs such as Cheatin' On Her Heart, I Never Was The Same Again and Until We Fall Back In Love Again. Retired from music in 2009 to pursue a career in law enforcement ~ Herndon passed away in 2022
December 16, 1961 ~ Rhonda LaChanze Sapp, mononymously known as actress, singer, dancer LaChanze, born in St Augustine, Florida, USA ~ Probably best known for portraying the role of Celie in the 2005 Broadway-production of The Color Purple, earning her a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical the following year. Other stage productions featuring LaChanze include Once On This Island, Dessa Rose, If/Then and Summer (The Donna Summer Musical). Has also acted in TV series and films, including as voice actress
December 16, 1960 ~ Jazz trombonist Mike Fahn born in Huntington, New York, USA ~ Brother of actress, singer Melissa Fahn. Leader and sideman. Worked with Dick Berk, Bob Cooper, Jerry Vivino, Frank Strazzeri, Andy Simpkins, Andrew Hill, Tom Harrell, Chita Rivera, and others
December 16, 1960 ~ Cornetist, trumpeter, hornist Roger Webster born in Doncaster, UK ~ Acclaimed as one of the finest cornetists of his generation. Member of the Black Dyke Band from 1988 through 1993, rejoining in 2000. Also known for his association with the Grimethorpe Collery Band, the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra, and others
December 16, 1959 ~ Jazz, rock, blues, pop violinist, guitarist Graham Clark, full name Graham Leslie Lionel Clark, born ~ Closely associated with Daevid Allen, working on several projects from the late 1980 through the 2010s. Has also worked with Andy Sheppard, Keith Tippett, Gong, Jah Wobble, Liz Fletcher, and others
December 16, 1959 ~ Drummer Stephen Irvine born in UK ~ Member of Lloyd Cole & the Commotions, known for mid-1980s songs such as Rattlesnakes and Lost Weekend. After the band disbanded in 1989 Irvine would go on to work with artists such as Del Amitri, Étienne Daho, Sarah Cracknell, Bloomsday, and others
December 16, 1954 ~ Bassist Joe Fonda born in Amsterdam, New York, USA ~ Leader and sideman. Worked with Wadada Leo Smith, Anthony Braxton, the Fonda-Stevens Group, the Nu-Band, Barry Altschul, Fab Trio, the Michael Musillami Trio, Satoko Fujii, Remi Alvarez, Karl Berger, Roy Campbell Jr, Charlie Mariano, Conference Call, Archie Shepp, Mark Whitecage, and others
December 16, 1954 ~ Lena Corinne Taylor, commonly known as singer, guitarist, actress, songwriter Lee Morse, passed away in Rochester, New York, USA ~ Enjoyed her peak as torch singer in the 1920s and early-1930s. Recorded over 200 songs over the course of her career. Best known for songs such as Telling Eyes, Those Daisy Days, An Old-Fashioned Love, Blue Waltz, Shadows On The Wall, Deep Wide Ocean Blues, A Little Love, and Daddy's Girl ~ Taylor was born in 1897
December 16, 1954 ~ Ivana Spagna., commonly known as club, dance, dance-pop singer Spagna, born in Veleggio sul Mincio, Italy ~ Rose to fame with mid to late-1980s dance-pop hits such as Easy Lady, Call Me, Why Me and Every Girl And By. Has also recorded songs by songwriters such as Diane Warren (There's A Love) and Elton John (Il Cercio Della Vita (Circle Of Life)). Had artists such as Brian Auger, Eumir Deodato, Dominic Miller, Lou Marini, Gregg Kofi Brown, Fabrizio Bosso, and Ronnie Jones guest on her albums
December 16, 1954 ~ Pianist, singer, songwriter Will Donaldson passed away ~ Married to pianist, organist, songwriter Muriel Pollock. As a songwriter perhaps best known for Oh Sister Ain't That Hot, recorded originally by Gene Rodemich in 1923 and later covered by the Original Memphis Five, Jimmie Noone, Eddie Condon, Fats Waller, and others ~ Donaldson was born in 1891
December 16, 1953 ~ Jazz clarinetist Allan Vaché born in Rahway, New Jersey, USA ~ Worked with Benny Goodman, Teddy Wilson, Lionel Hampton, Pete Fountain, Clark Terry, Benny Carter, Milt Hinton, Bob Haggart, Yank Lawson, Bucky Pizzarelli, Gene Krupa, Jake Hanna, Scott Hamilton, Herb Ellis, Bonnie Raitt, and Leon Redbone
December 16, 1952 ~ Punk, rock guitarist Alex Fergusson born ~ Member of the Nobodies. Formed punk band Alternative TV with Mark Perry in 1977. Subsequently a member of Psychic TV from 1981 through 1987. Has also served as producer for Orange Juice, the Go-Betweens, Dorothy Max Prior, and Gaye Bykers On Acid
December 16, 1951 ~ Daniel GP Middlebrook, commonly known as blues, gospel singer, guitarist Danny Brooks born in Toronto, Canada ~ Actively recording both as a member of several as bands and as a solo artist since the early-1970s. Plays in a wide variety of styles including blues, R&B, country and gospel. Has collaborated with the Mighty Jeremiahs, the Taildraggers, Garth Hudson, and others
December 16, 1951 ~ Folk rock, CCM singer, guitarist Mark Heard, full name John Mark Heard III, born in Macon, Georgia, USA ~ Acknowledged as a poetic songwriter displaying an honesty to the human condition uncommon in CCM, Heard has recorded over half a dozen albums prior to his death at age 40, following a heart attack on stage. Especially acclaimed for his 1982 Victims Of The Age album and Dry Bones Dance released eight years later. A valued sideman, collaborator, and occasional producer, Heard is also present on albums by Larry Norman, Phil Keaggy, Olivia Newton-John, Randy Stonehill (Return To Paradise), and Pierce Pettis ~ Heard passed away in 1992
December 16, 1949 ~ James Joshua Whiting, commonly known as blues harpist Sugar Blue, born in Harlem, New York, USA ~ Perhaps best known for guesting on several of the Rolling Stones's tracks including Miss You, Some Girls, Send It To Me, Down In The Hole. Released his solo debut album, Crossroads, in 1979. Has worked with Louisiana Red, Mike Zwerin, Willie Dixon, Brownie McGhee, and others
December 16, 1946 ~ Keyboardist, singer, producer Benny Anderson, full name Göran Bror Benny Andersson, born in Stockholm, Sweden ~ Keyboardist, singer, songwriter of ABBA, rising to international stardom with their 1974 Eurovision Songfestival winner Waterloo. Would go on to become the most successful act in Eurovision history scoring international hits well into the 1980s with songs such as SOS, Mamma Mia, Fernando, Dancing Queen, Take A Chance On Me and Thank You For The Music
December 16, 1945 ~ Guitarist, banjoist, sitarist, mandolinist, singer Tony Hicks, full name Anthony Christopher Hicks, born in Nelson, UK ~ Lead guitarist, constant member of the Hollies, known for a string of 1960s UK hits including the top 10 singles Just One Look, Here I Go Again, I'm Alive, Look Through Any Window, I Can't Let Go, and On A Carousel. The singles Bus Stop, Stop Stop Stop, and Carrie Anne would also reach top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100
December 16, 1945 ~ Zelimir Bebek, commonly known as rock singer, guitarist, bassist, mandolinist Zeljko Bebek, born in Sarajevo, Yugoslavia ~ Lead singer of rock group Bijelo Dugme from 1974 through 1984. Has previously recorded with Kodeski and Jutro. As a solo artist has over a dozen albums to his name, his biggest solo hit being 2019's Dunavom
December 16, 1944 ~ Jazz, jazz fusion, free jazz guitarist John Abercrombie, full name John Laird Abercrombie, born in Portchester, New York, USA ~ Became an in-demand session musician starting in the late-1960s with artists such as Gato Barbieri, Barry Miles, Gil Evans, the Brecker Brothers, Billy Cobham, Dreams. Closely associated with Jack DeJohnette. Over 50 albums to his name as leader or co-leader including 1976's Gateway and 1979's Abercrombie Quartet. Has worked with Jan Hammer, Ralph Towner, Richie Beirach, George Mraz, John Scofield, Tal Farlow, Vince Mendoza, Arild Andersen, Adam Nussbaum, Kenny Wheeler, Peter Erskine, John Patitucci, Marc Copland, Joe Beck, Robert Balzar, Franco Ambrosetti, Rudy Linka, Enrico Rava, Dr Lonnie Smith, Jan Garbarek, and Bob Mintzer ~ Abercrombie passed away in 2017
December 16, 1939 ~ Banjoist, fiddler, mandolinist Barney McKenna, full name Bernard Noel McKenna, born in Donnycarny, Ireland ~ Co-founding member of the Dubliners, one of the most beloved Irish groups enjoying international popularity over a career spanning over five decades. Infusing traditional folk with a rock & roll feel, they are best known for songs such as Seven Drunken Nights, Hand Me Down My Bible and Free The People. McKenna has also guested on recordings by Elvis Costello, the Chieftains, Christy Moore (Whatever Tickles Your Fancy), Melody Gardot, and Damien Dempsey ~ McKenna passed away in 2012
December 16, 1937 ~ Country singer, guitarist Jim Glaser, full name James William Glaser, born in Spalding, Nebraska, USA ~ Member of sibling outfit the Glaser Brothers, known for songs such as California Girl (And The Tennessee Square), Rings, Ain't It All Worth Living For, and Lovin' Her Was Easier (Than Anything I'll Ever Do Again), all of which reached top 20 Billboard Country top 20. Glaser has also recorded a handful of solo albums, his most successfull being his Man In The Mirror 1983 debut album which spawned the Billboard Country charttopper You're Gettin' To Me. Glaser was also the first to record Who Were You Thinkin' Of in 1979, notably covered by Sir Douglas Quintet, the Texas Tornados, and Billy Bacon & the Forbidden Pigs ~ Glaser passed away in 2019
December 16, 1937 ~ Joseph Carl Firrantello, commonly known as jazz, jazz funk, fusion, hard bop saxophonist, oboist, flutist, hornist Joe Farrell, born in Chicago Heights, Illinois, USA ~ Well over a dozen albums to his name as a leader, including the highly acclaimed Outback released in 1972. Member of Chick Corea's pioneering jazz-fusion outfit Return To Forever. To pop and rock audiences perhaps best known for guesting on tracks such as Aretha Franklin's Until You Come Back To Me (That's What I'm Gonna Do), and Santana's When I Look Into Your Eyes. Other notable credits include work with Stan Getz, Dizzy Reece (Asia Minor), Willie Bobo, Jaki Byard, Stanley Turrentine, Pearls Before Swine, Andrew Hill, Elvin Jones, Janis Ian (Who Really Cares), Hermeto Pascoal, Roberta Flack (Quiet Fire), James Brown, Hall & Oates, the Bee Gees, George Benson (Good King Bad), and Maynard Ferguson ~ Firrantello passed away in 1986
December 16, 1933 ~ John Robert Smith, commonly known as hard bop, soul jazz organist Johnny Hammond Smith, born in Louisville, Kentucky, USA ~ Active since the late-1950s. Renowned on the Hammond B-3 organ, earning him the nickname Hammond. As a leader best known for his 1971 Breakout album, and for collaborating with the Mizell Brothers on the mid-1970s albums Gambler's Life and Gears. In-demand collaborator, appearing on albums by Gene Ammons, Oliver Nelson, Byrdie Green, Freddie Hubbard (Red Clay), Billy Butler, Stanley Turrentine (Don't Mess With Mr T), and the CTI All-Stars ~ Smith passed away in 1997
December 16, 1933 ~ Jazz guitarist Ron Anthony born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA ~ Influenced by Joe Negri. Best known for his association with George Shearing. Has also worked with Tex Beneke, Les Brown, Stan Kenton, Vic Damone, Bob Hope, and extensively with Frank Sinatra from the 1980s until Sinatra's death in 1998 ~ Anthony passed away in 2021
December 16, 1931 ~ Producer, label executive Shelby Singleton born in Waskom, Texas, USA ~ Producer at Mercury Records incremental to the careers of Leroy Van Dyke, Ray Stevens, Joe Dowell, Jerry Lee Lewis, Roger Miller, Charlie Rich, Dave Dudley, and Brook Benton. Started his own label by the early-1960s, scoring with hits such as Hey Paul Hey Paula by Paul & Paula and Harper Valley PTA by Jeannie C Riley. Bought Sun Records in 1969 ~ Singleton passed away in 2009
December 16, 1930 ~ Jazz flutist, clarinetist, saxophonist Sam Most, full name Samuel Most, born in Atlantic City, New Jersey, USA ~ Leader and sideman. Worked with Tommy Dorsey, Shep Fields, Boyd Raeburn, Don Redman, his brother Abe Most, Chris Connor, Paul Quinichette, Teddy Wilson, Louie Bellson, Clare Fischer, Stan Kenton, Lalo Schifrin, and others ~ Most passed away in 2013
December 16, 1923 ~ Pianist Menahem Pressler born in Magenburg, Germany ~ Fled Nazi Germany with his family after Kristallnacht. Best known as longtime member of the Beaux Arts Trio, the only member to play with the trio throughout its entire existence. The trio is acknowledged for its precise playing, and is one of the longest-running chamber music trios performing and recording for over six decades starting in the mid-1950s. The trio's repertoire includes the standard piano works ranging from Maurice Ravel and Gabriel Fauré to Ludwig van Beethoven ~ Pressler passed away in 2023
December 16, 1918 ~ George Edward Ballard, commonly known as jazz drummer Butch Ballard, born in Camden, New Jersey, USA ~ Worked with Louis Armstrong, Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Cootie Williams, Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, Dinah Washington, Pearl Bailey, Eddie Lockjaw Davis, Eddie Cleanhead Vinson, Arnett Cobb, Clark Terry, Shadow Wilson, Woody Herman, Harry Carney, Paul Gonsalves, Jimmy Hamilton, Billy Strayhorn, Kay Davis, Chubby Kemp, Wendell Marshall, John Coltrane, Freddie Green, Harry Sweets Edison, Clark Terry, Emmett Berry, Bardu Ali, Willie Cook, Cat Anderson, Arnett Cobb, Lucky Millinder, Bootsie Barnes, Bob Dorsey, Eddy Vincent, Mercer Ellington, and the Philadelphia Legends Of Jazz Orchestra ~ Ballard passed away in 2011
December 16, 1918 ~ Pierre Charles Marcel Napoleon Leroyer, commonly known as songwriter Pierre Delanoë born in Paris, France ~ Wrote thousands of songs recorded by Dalida, Edith Piaf, Charles Aznavour, Petula Clark, Johnny Hallyday, Joe Dassin, Michel Sardou, Mireille Mathieu. Co-wrote Et Maintenant with Gilbert Bécaud, its translation What Now My Love was recorded by Agnetha Fältskog, Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra, Barbra Streisand, the Supremes, Sonny & Cher, the Temptations. Co-wrote Je T'Appartiens, translated to Let It Be Me recorded by the Everly Brothers, Tom Jones, Bob Dylan, Willie Nelson, Nina Simone, and others ~ Delanoë passed away in 2006
December 16, 1915 ~ Bandleader, pianist, arranger Marty Gold born in New York, New York, USA ~ Pianist, arranger for popular 1940s novelty danceband the Korn Kobblers. Perhaps best remembered for penning Tell Me Why, a 1951 hit record for the Four Aces ~ Gold passed away in 2011
December 16, 1908 ~ Jazz, blues, R&B bassist, tubist Quinn Wilson, full name Quinn Brown Wilson, born in Chicago, Illinois, USA ~ Worked with Tiny Parham, Walter Barnes, Jelly Roll Morton, Erskine Tate, Earl Hines, Jimmie Noone, Lefty Bates, John Lee Hooker (including on the acclaimed The Folk Lore Of John Lee Hooker), Franz Jackson, and others ~ Wilson passed away in 1978
December 16, 1895 ~ Andriamananentena Paul Razafinkarefo, commonly known as songwriter, lyricist Andy Razaff, born in Washington DC, USA ~ Remembered for co-penning songs such as Honeysuckle Rose (Bert Stock, Mildred Bailey, Louis Jordan, Horace Henderson), S'posin' (Bob Haring, Rudy Vallée, Erskine Hawkins, the Chordettes), Keepin' Out Of Mischief Now (Louis Armstrong, Lee Wiley, Dinah Washington, Barbra Streisand), Stompin' At The Savoy (Judy Garland, Stan Kenton, Maxine Sullivan), You're Lucky To Me (Ethel Waters), The Joint Is Jumpin' (Fats Waller), and Ain't Misbehavin' (Margaret Simms & Paul Bass, the Charleston Chasers, Chester Gaylord) ~ Razafinkarefo passed away in 1973