December 18, 2001 ~ Singer, songwriter Billie Eilish, full name Billie Eilish Pirate Baird O'Connell born in Los Angeles, California, USA ~ First gained attention with her debut EP, Don't Smile At Me, released in 2017 and becoming a sleeper hit in the US and abroad. Released her full-length When We All Fall Asleep Where Do We Go debut album in 2019. It would become the best-performing album in the US and spawn hits such as When The Party's Over, Bury A Friend and Bad Guy
December 18, 1990 ~ Sierry Kay Kusterbeck, commonly known as alternative rock, experimental singer, songwriter, model Sierra Kay, born in St Petersburg, Florida, USA ~ Rose to fame as lead singer of Versa from 2007 through 2015, known for half a dozen EPs and the full-length Fixed At Zero album released in 2010. Has also worked with indie, post-punk band Neaux and as a solo artist using the moniker Bad Daughter
December 18, 1984 ~ Nu metal, heavy metal, alternative metal singer, guitarist, bassist Derrick Tribbett born in Peoria, Illinois, USA ~ Brother of metal guitarist Greg Tribbett and Slipknot drum tech Matt Tribbett. Lead singer, guitarist for nu-metal band Twisted Method, known for their sole Escape From Cape Coma released in 2003. Following the band's disbandement in 2005 Tribbett formed Makeshift-Romeo with bandmate Derek DeSantis. Has also played bass for Dope from 2007 through 2013
December 18, 1981 ~ Singer Houari Manar born in Oran, Algeria ~ Blends upbeat rai with modern pop music. Released his debut album, Aachkek Mon Traitement, in 2006 and would go on to become a major force in the Mediterranean since. Best known for songs such Ha Mhayni and Hya ~ Manar passed away in 2019
December 18, 1980 ~ Singer Christina Aguilera, full name Christina Maria Aguilera, born in Staten Island, New York, USA ~ Released her eponymous Christina Aguilera debut album in 1999, which spawend the hit singles Genie In A Bottle, What A Girl Wants and Come On Over Baby (All I Want Is You). Would go on to score numerous hits including the Labelle remake Lady Marmalade with Lil' Kim, Mya & P!nk, Beautiful, Ain't No Other Man, and Keeps Gettin' Better. Aguilera has also collaborated with Great Big World (Say Something), Pitbull (Feel This Moment), and Maroon 5 (Moves Like Jagger)
December 18, 1980 ~ Rock bassist Kelan Luker born ~ Retired from a college football career to join Submersed as a bassist, finding succes with the albums In Due Time and Immortal Verses. Following the band's initial disbandement Luker returned to college football, initially as a quarterback and subsequently as a coach
December 18, 1979 ~ Rock guitarist, drummer, bassist, keyboardist, drummer, singer, producer Justin McCain born in Omaha, Nebraska, USA ~ Co-founding member of hard rock, post-grunge unit Emphatic, perhaps best known for the songs Bounce and Get Paid of their 2011 Damage sophomore album. Co-founding member of Through Fire, known for their 2016 Breathe debut album. McCain would depart the band in 2023
December 18, 1977 ~ Axel Christofer Hefros, DJ, producer, commonly known as Axwell, born in Lund, Sweden ~ Formed the duo Mambana with Isabel Fructuoso. Has also worked with Tara McDonald and Supermode. Best known for teaming up with Steve Angello and Sebastian Ingrosso in the house supergroup Swedish House Mafia. The trio would score a number of international dance hits throughout the 2010s, 2012's Don't You Worry Child a Billboard Hot 100 top 10 hit while One (Your Name), Miami 2 Ibiza and Antidote would do well across Europe
December 18, 1977 ~ Heavy metal, alternative metal, nu metal singer, keyboardist Maria Brink, full name Maria Diane Brink, born in Schenectady, New York, USA ~ Cites the Deftones and Pantera as influences. Fronts In This Moment, founded in 2005 and best known for their 2012 Blood album
December 18, 1976 ~ Bassist, guitarist, singer Jack Lawrence born in Cinvgton, Kentucky, USA ~ Worked with the Raconteurs, the Greenhornes, Loretta Lynn (Van Lear), Blanche, Dead Weather, Karen O, Karen Elson, Jack White, Dallas Green, JEFF The Brotherhood, Foshfee, Glim Spanly, Wanda Jackson, and others
December 18, 1976 ~ Indie rock, jazz fusion drummer, percussionist, guitarist, keyboardist, songwriter Joe Russo born ~ Forms the duo Benevento-Russo Duo with keyboardist Marco Benevento. Other notable credits include Cass McCombs, A Big Yes & A Small No, Fat Mama, Younger Brother, Shpongle, American Babies, Trey Anastasio, Furthur, and others
December 18, 1976 ~ Shawn Randolph Houser, commonly known as country singer, guitarist, songwriter Randy Houser, born in Lake, Mississippi, USA ~ In-demand songwriter, co-penning hits such as Honky Tonk Badonkadonk for Trace Adkins and Back That Thing Up for Justin Moore before starting a successful career as a singer, debuting with the Anything Goes album in 2008. Known for songs such Boots On, How Country Feels, Runnin' Outta Moonlight, Goodnight Kiss, Like A Cowboy and We Went, all of which reached the top 10 of the country charts
December 18, 1975 ~ Heavy metal, power metal, alternative rock guitarist Hugo Mariutti, full name Hugo Mariutti Pereira, born in São Paulo, Brazil ~ First gained attention as guitarist of Shaman, which also includes his brother bassist Luis Mariutti, recording three albums through the mid-2000s. Would go on to work with Andre Matos, Henceforth, and Remove Silence. Mariutti released his A Blank Sheet Of Paper solo debut album in 2014
December 18, 1975 ~ Rashia Tashan Fisher, commonly known as rapper Rah Digga born in New York, New York, USA ~ Discovered by Q-Tip. Best known as member of Flipmode Squad, a hip-hop group led by Busta Rhymes. Regarded as one of hip-hop's most skilled female MC's. Debuted as a solo artist with the Dirty Harriet album in 2000. Has worked with Twice The Flavor, the Fugees (Cowboys), Bahamadia, Young Zee, A Tribe Called Quest, Kool G Rap, Talib Kweli, Masta Ace, Erick Sermon, Groove Armada, Wyclef Jean, RZA, Marco Polo, and others
December 18, 1975 ~ Sia Kate Isobelle Furler, mononymously known as singer, songwriter Sia, born in Adelaide, Australia ~ First gained attention as member of acid jazz band Crisp. After the band disbanded in 1997 moved on to a successful solo career, starting with the album OnlySee. Known for songs such as Chandelier, Elastic Heart, Cheap Thrills featuring Sean Paul, The Greatest featuring Kendrick Lamar and others. Has written for or worked with a wide array of artists including Zero 7, Sophie Barker, Lior, the Hilltop Hoods, David Guetta, Flo Rida, Alicia Keys, Angel Haze, Eminem, Giorgio Moroder, and others
December 18, 1974 ~ Felix Delgado, commonly known as rapper Cuban Link, born in Havana, Cuba ~ Original member of Terror Squad. As a solo artist best known for the 2000 single Flowers For The Dead featuring D'mingo, a modest hit on the Billboard R&B charts, top 10 on the Rap charts. Has also worked with Big Pun, the Beatnuts, Fat Joe, DJ Skribble, Krayzie Bone, Jon B, and others
December 18, 1974 ~ Hard rock, punk rock, glam punk guitarist, pianist, singer Knut Schreiner born ~ Influenced by the Stooges-guitarist James Williamson. Lead singer of the Euroboys. Best known as lead singer of Turbonegro, a band known for its fusion of glam rock, punk rock and hard rock. Formed Mirror Lakes in 2010 with Frode Fivel. Served as producer for the likes of Amulet and the Lovethugs
December 18, 1972 ~ Singer, songwriter Eimar Quinn, full name Eimar Mary Rose Quinn, born in Mount Merrion ~ Best known for winning the 1996 Eurovision Songfestival held in Oslo, representing Ireland with the song The Voice. Reaching 2nd place was England with its entry of Ooh Aah (Just A Little Bit) performed by Gina G
December 18, 1970 ~ Smooth jazz guitarist, singer Norman Brown born in Shreveport, Louisiana, USA ~ Influenced by Jimi Hendrix, the Isley Brothers, Wes Montgomery. Worked with Boyz II Men, Stevie Wonder, Kenneth Williams, Norman Connors, and with Kirk Whalum and Rick Braun as a member of BWB
December 18, 1970 ~ Paul Pesce, commonly known as drum and bass, jungle producer, DJ Peshay, born in London, UK ~ Rose to prominence in the early-1990s East London rave scene with classic releases such as Protegé EP, 19.5, Piano Tune/Vocal Tune, Psychosis/Represent
December 18, 1970 ~ Anthony Schappel, commonly known as R&B, gospel pianist, producer Shep Crawford, born in Los Angeles, California, USA ~ Worked with Whitney Houston, Deborah Cox, Tamia, Sisqó, Kelly Price, Luther Vandross, Montell Jordan, Gladys Knight, Yolanda Adams, LV, 98°, Kenny Lattimore, Boyz II Men, Heather Headley, and others
December 18, 1969 ~ Keyboardist, violinist Irvin Duguid born in Aberdeenshire, UK ~ Best known as a member of Gun. Has also worked with Stiltskin, Fish, Paolo Nutini, Louise Rutkowski, Fiona Mackenzie, and others. Has also worked on a number of English musical productions including We Will Rock You, The Producers and The Full Monty
December 18, 1968 ~ Alejandro Sánchez Pizarro, commonly known as singer, composer Alejandro Sanz, born in Madrid, Spain ~ Multiple Grammy Awards winner known for flamenco-influenced ballads also drawing from pop, rock, R&B and jazz. Released his debut album, Los Chulos Son Pa Cuidarios, in 1989. Rose to national fame with its follow-up, 1991's Viviendo Deprisa. Broke through internationally with the 1997 Más album
December 18, 1968 ~ Rock, post-punk, garage rock, indie rock singer, guitarist, songwriter Jamie Hince, full name James William Hince, born in Buckinghamshire, UK ~ Forms the rock duo the Kills with Alison Mosshart, best known for The Good Ones of their 2005 No Wow sophomore album. Has previously worked with Fiji, Scarfo, Blyth Power, and others. Married to supermodel Kate Moss from 2011 to 2016
December 18, 1967 ~ Theatre actor, tenor singer Mario Frangoulis born in Rhodesia ~ Critically acclaimed in Greece and neighboring countries. Known for roles in stage productions of Les Miserables, The Phantom Of The Opera and Grease. As a recording artist best known for Vincero Perdero and his rendition of the Moody Blues-classic Nights In White Satin
December 18, 1967 ~ Miland Petrozza, commonly known as heavy metal, thrash metal singer, guitarist Mille Petrozza, born in Essen, West Germany ~ Best known as lead singer, guitarist, sole constant member of Kreator. Has also worked with Nail Within, Voodoocult, Volbeat, Caliban, Heaven Shall Burn, and others
December 18, 1963 ~ Glam metal, heavy metal, thrash metal drummer Greg d'Angelo born in Brooklyn, New York, USA ~ Best known as member of White Lion from 1985 replacing Nicki Capozzi through 1991 and present on the albums Pride, Big Game and Mane Attraction. Has also worked with Zakk Wylde, the Pirates Of Venus, Antiproduct, Stephen Pearcy, Anthrax, Britny Fox, and others
December 18, 1961 ~ Angela Laverne Brown, commonly known as neo soul, R&B, soul singer, songwriter Angie Stone born in Columbia, South Carolina, USA ~ Member of hip-hop trio the Sequence. Worked with Mantronix and with Lenny Kravitz prior to pursuing a solo career. Debuted in 1999 with the album Black Diamond. Best known for songs such as No More Rain In This Cloud, Wish I Didn't Miss You, Brotha and BABY featuring Betty Wright. Has collaborated with Alicia Keys, Eve, Joe, Snoop Dogg, Anthony Hamilton, Guru, Prince (U Make My Sun Shine), Omar, Macy Gray, Raphael Saadiq, and Dionne Warwick
December 18, 1958 ~ Frank Martin Strauss, commonly known as industrial, electronic percusssionist FM Einheit, born in Dortmund, Germany ~ Best known as member of Einstürzende Neubauten. Also worked with KMFDM, Goethes Erben, Diamanda Galás, Mona Mur, Andreas Ammer, Ulrike Haage, and others
December 18, 1958 ~ Kevin Walker, commonly known as post-punk, gothic rock, new wave guitarist Geordie Walker, born in Chester-le-Street, UK ~ Earned his nickname for his northeastern “Geordie” accent. First got into music at age eight, mesmerized by Love Sculpture's Sabre Dance. Co-founding member of Killing Joke, with whom he recorded over a dozen albums since its inception in the late-1970s. The post-punk outfit would enjoy popularity especially during the mid-1980s and are best known for Love Like Blood, a UK top 20 hit taken off their 1985 Night Time album. Walker has also played with industrial supergroups Murder Inc and Damage Manual ~ Walker passed away in 2023
December 18, 1956 ~ Rock, alternative rock drummer Billy Conway born in Owatonna, Minnesota, USA ~ Known for his jazz-influenced, stripped-down drumming style. Member of Treat Her Right. Member of Morphine, enjoying a cult following with acclaimed 1990s albums such as Good and Cure For Pain. After the death of frontman Mark Sandman in 1999 the band folded, Conway going on to work with Orchestra Morphine, Twinemen, Jeffrey Foucault, Cold Satellite, Kris Delmhorst, and John Statz. Released a sole solo album, Outside Inside, in 2020 ~ Conway passed away in 2021
December 18, 1956 ~ Jazz, gospel singer Chris Murrell, full name Byron Christopher Murrell, born in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA ~ While in his teens fronted gospel outfit the Christian Disciples. Best known for his association with the Count Basie Orchestra, touring with the ensemble from the mid-1980s through the early-2000s. Released his Reprise solo album in 2002 to critical acclaim ~ Murrell passed away in 2017
December 18, 1955 ~ Walfredo de los Reyes Jr, commonly known as percussionist Walfredo Reyes Jr, born in Havana, Cuba ~ Son of percussionist Walfredo de los Reyes Sr, brother of Daniel de los Reyes. Best known as member of Santana during the late-1980s and early-1990s. Has also worked with Tania Maria, David Lindley, Jackson Browne, Jimmy Barnes, Boz Scaggs, Gloria Estefan, Robbie Robertson, Steve Winwood, Joe Sample, Lindsey Buckingham, Mickey Hart, Manny Charlton, Chicago, and others
December 18, 1953 ~ Elliot Steinberg, commonly known as guitarist Elliot Easton, born in Baltimore, Maryland, USA ~ Best known as constant member of the Cars, known for hits such Shake It Up, You Might Think, Drive, and Tonight She Comes. Has released a sole solo album, Change No Change, in 1985. Has also worked with the New Cars, Amy Rigby, Jules Shear, Lee Rocker, Creedence Clearwater Revisited, and others
December 18, 1952 ~ Blues-rock, hard rock, rock bassist Anthony Jones born in USA ~ Member of Humble Pie, present on the early 1980s elbums On To Victory and Go For The Throat ~ Jones passed away in 1999
December 18, 1952 ~ Peter Brian, commonly known as singer, actor, TV personality Frankie J Holden, born ~ Fronted Ol' 55, known for the hit On The Prowl of their 1976 Take It Greasey debut album. Other well known songs include Looking For An Echo, I Want A Rockin' Christmas, Stay (While The Night Is Young) and Two Faces Have I
December 18, 1952 ~ Country, rock guitarist, producer, songwriter John Leventhal born in New York, New York, USA ~ In-demand instrumentalist, plays guitar, bass, keyboards, drums. Engineer and producer. Prolific songwriter with over 200 songs to his name and the scores to Winter Solstice and Big Stone Gap. Arranged and played on Marc Cohn's 1991 hit Walking In Memphis. Produced and co-wrote Shawn Colvin's 1997 hit Sunny Came Home. Other notable credits include producing William Bell's 2016 This Is Where I Live, co-writing Rosanne Cash's 2019 Crossing To Jerusalem, and producing Sarah Jarosz's 2021 World On The Ground album
December 18, 1951 ~ Country drummer Hugh Wright born in Des Moines, Iowa, USA ~ Co-founding member of Boy Howdy, known for early-1990s recordings such as A Cowboy's Born With A Broken Heart, She'd Give Anything and They Don't Make 'Em Like That Anynmore, all of which reached the top 20 of the country charts both in America and Canada ~ Wright passed away in 2015
December 18, 1950 ~ Randolpho Francisco Castillo, commonly known as heavy metal, hard rock, glam metal drummer Randy Castillo, born in Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA ~ Inspired to take up the drums after seeing the Beatles perform on The Ed Sullivan Show in 1964. Best known for backing Ozzy Osbourne from the mid-1980s through the early-1990s, including on the acclaimed No More Tears album released in 1991. Member of Mötley Crüe from 1999 until his death in 2002, present on the 2000 New Tattoo album. Castillo has also worked with Lita Ford, Red Square Black, the Bone Angels, and Bret Michaels ~ Castillo passed away in 2002
December 18, 1949 ~ Michael David Fuller, commonly known as country singer, songwriter Blaze Foley, born in Malvern, Arkansas, USA ~ Admired by peers. Had his songs covered by Merle Haggard & Willie Nelson (If I Could Only Fly), Lyle Lovett (Election Day), and John Prine (Clay Pigeons). Has been the subject of tribute songs by Townes Van Zandt (Blaze's Blues), Lucinda Williams (Drunken Angel), Gurf Morlix (Music You Mighta Made), and the Kings Of Leon (Reverend) ~ Fuller passed away in 1989
December 18, 1949 ~ Talent agent, label executive Troy Blakely born near Detroit, Michigan, USA ~ Worked as tour manager for Mitch Ryder, and as assistant tour manager for Johnny Winter. As a talent agent Blakely has signed or represented artists such as Ted Nugent, Bob Seger, the Stooges, MC5, Nazareth, the Golden Earring, Canned Heat, Birtha, Lighthouse, the Raspberries, Blackfoot, Tim Buckley, Sammy Hagar, the Scorpions, Triumph, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Poison, Boston, Faith No More, Alice In Chains, King's X, the Black Crowes, Y&T, Rush, Ozzy Osbourne, Iron Maiden, Robert Plant, Bret Michaels, Fleetwood Mac, the Go-Go's, Lenny Kravitz, Judas Priest, Zakk Wylde, Whitesnake, Black Label Society, RATT, Cinderella, Dokken, Sebastian Bach, and Lita Ford ~ Blakely passed away in 2018
December 18, 1948 ~ Conductor, organist Andrew Morris born ~ Director of Music at the the Priority Church Of St Bartholomew the Great, London, its choir known for their performances on BBC and ITV programs. Founded the New English Singers in 1974. Founded the New Bedford Singers
December 18, 1948 ~ Art rock, glam rock, electronic rock, new wave, post-punk singer, guitarist, bassist, keyboardist, drummer, percussionist, songwriter Bill Nelson born in Wakefield, UK ~ Influenced by Duane Eddy. Released his Northern Dream debut album in 1971. Best known for his work with Be Bop Deluxe throughout the 1970s. Has also worked with Fiat Lux, the Orchestra Arcana, Channel Light Vessel, and the Invisible Girls. As a producer worked on recordings by Roger Eno, Gary Numan, the Skids, and A Flock Of Seagulls
December 18, 1948 ~ Lucien Voulzy, commonly known as alternative rock, French pop rock, soft rock singer, guitarist, songwriter Laurent Voulzy, born in Paris, France ~ Fronted Le Temple De Venus. Worked with Pascal Danel from 1969 through 1974. Best known as a solo artist, internationally best known for the 1977 single Rockollection. French hits include Les Nuits Sans Kim Wilde, Le Soleil Donne, Paradoxal Système, and Derniers Basiers. Duetted with the Who-singer Roger Daltrey on Ma Seule Amours of his 2011 Lys And Love album
December 18, 1947 ~ Singer Martin Reverby, sometimes known as Martin Rev, born in Brooklyn, New York, USA ~ Half of influential synth-punk duo Suicide, the other half being Alan Vega, acclaimed especially for their eponymous Suicide debut album released in 1977
December 18, 1947 ~ Harmonica player, singer Rod Piazza born in Riverside, California, USA ~ Best known for playing with his band the Mighty Flyers, co-founded with his wife, pianist Honey Piazza. Plays an energetic blues hybrid, drawing from jump blues, West Coast blues and Chicago blues
December 18, 1946 ~ Singer, guitarist, drummer Alex Ligertwood born in Glasgow, UK ~ Best known as on-and-off lead singer of Santana from 1979 through 1994, present on songs such as All I Ever Wanted, You Know That I Love You, Winning, and Hold On. Has also worked with the Senate, the Jeff Beck Group, the Oblivion Express, the Average White Band, Dixie Dregs, Jeff Lorber, Troc, Go Ahead, World Classic Rockers, and El Chicano
December 18, 1944 ~ Roger Arnold Leonard, commonly known as guitarist, singer, songwriter Deke Leonard, born in Llanelli, UK ~ Took his stage name from Deke Rivers, the character played by Elvis Presley in his 1957 Loving You film. Member of the Bystanders. Joined and left progressive rock group Man several times. Formed, fronted, disbanded, reformed his own Iceberg several times ~ Leonard passed away in 2017
December 18, 1943 ~ Saxophonist Bobby Keys, full name Robert Henry Keys, born in Slaton, Texas, USA ~ In-demand touring and session musician. Longtime associate of the Rolling Stones noted for his saxophone solo on the 1971 Stones hit Brown Sugar. Also present on albums such as Let It Bleed, Exile On Main St, Goat's Head Soup, Emotional Rescue, and No Security. Involved with several Stones side projects and solo albums, notably Keith Richards's, including with the New Barbarians and the X-Pensive Winos. Has also worked with Delaney & Bonnie, Joe Cocker, George Harrison, John Lennon, Ringo Starr, BB King, Barbra Streisand, Carly Simon, Chuck Berry, Dr John, Eric Clapton, Keith Moon, Lynyrd Skynyrd, and John Hiatt ~ Keys passed away in 2014
December 18, 1943 ~ Guitarist, singer, songwriter Keith Richards born in Dartford, UK ~ Longtime member, guitarist and along with Mick Jagger primary songwriter of the Rolling Stones. Also active in several side-projects, notably the X-Pensive Winos and the New Barbarians. In-demand collaborator, has worked with the Beatles, Ronnie Wood, Tom Waits (Rain Dogs), Aretha Franklin, Chuck Berry, George Jones, Hubert Sumlin, Toots Hibbert, Gram Parsons, Jack White, and others
December 18, 1941 ~ Jazz, avant-garde jazz, classical trumpeter Wadada Leo Smith, full name Ishmael Wadada Leo Smith, born in Leland, Mississippi, USA ~ Leader and sideman. As a leader or co-leader recorded extensively since the early-1970s with well over 50 albums to his name, especially acclaimed for the albums Mass On The World, Go In Numbers, Procession Of The Great Ancestry, Prataxis, and Luminous Axis. Closely associated with Anthony Braxton, Derek Bailey, Henry Kaiser, Jack DeJohnette, Matthew Shipp, and John Zorn
December 18, 1937 ~ Songwriter Joel Hirschhorn born in the Bronx, New York, USA ~ Closely associated with songwriting partner Al Kasha, with whom he won an Academy Award for Best Original Song twice, namely with The Morning After from The Poseidon Adventure in 1972 and We May Never Love Like This Again from The Towering Inferno in 1975. Has also written for artists such Elvis Presley (Your Time Hasn't Come Yet Baby), Roy Orbison, Helen Reddy (Candle On The Water), and others ~ Hirschhorn passed away in 2005
December 18, 1936 ~ Country singer, guitarist, songwriter Dale McBride born in Lampasas, Texas, USA ~ Played rockabilly in the 1950s, to venture into country by the 1960s. Discovered by Dean Martin, who helped him land a record deal with Reprise Records, though initially to little success as the label was not focused on country music. McBride found moderate success from the mid-1970s onwards, with singles such as Ordinary Man, Always Lovin' Her Man, and I Don't Like Cheatin' Songs reaching the top 50 on the Billboard Country charts. McBride's son, bassist and singer Terry McBride, started in his father's backing band, and would later front 1990s country unit McBride & the Ride, and write for Brooks & Dunn ~ McBride passed away in 1992
December 18, 1934 ~ James Mavin Parker, commonly known as composer Jim Parker, born in Hartlepool, UK ~ Member of the Barrow Poets. Rose to fame with a series of 1970s recordings of John Betjeman poems set to music, notably Banana Blush and Sir John Betjeman's Britain. Prolific film and TV composer, credits including Midsomer Murders, Foyles War, To Play The King, and The Final Cut. Concert works written by Parker have been performed by the Nash Ensemble, the Hilliard Ensemble, and the Albion Ensemble ~ Parker passed away in 2023
December 18, 1933 ~ Lee Baker Jr, commonly known as guitarist, singer Lonnie Brooks, born in Dubhuisson, Louisiana, USA ~ Inspired to pursue a career in music after hearing the sounds of Clarence Gatemouth Brown, T-Bone Walker, and BB King. Critically described as “the embodiment of a good-time bluesman” by the New York Times, while Rolling Stone once stated “his music is witty, soulful and ferociosuly energetic, brimming with novel harmonic turnaround, committed vocals and simply astonishing guitar work”. Backed Clifton Chenier early on in his career. Enjoyed regional popularity in the South in the 1950s, before relocating to Chicago where he became a fixture known for his charisma, showmanship and distinctive hybrid of Louisiana and Chicago blues. Brooks would gain wider attention after being picked up by the Alligator Records label in the 1970s, and is especially acclaimed for his Bayou Lightning album released in 1979. His sons Ronnie Baker Brooks and Wayne Baker Brooks are both also professional blues singers ~ Brooks passed away in 2017
December 18, 1931 ~ Music agent, label executive Allen Klein born in Newark, New Jersey, USA ~ Became one of the most powerful individuals of his day in the music industry. Started representing 1950s rockabilly artists such as Buddy Knox and Jimmy Bowen. Would go on to negotiate contracts for Sam Cooke, the Beatles and the Rolling Stones. Also worked with Ersel Hickey, Dimitri Tiomkin, Steve Lawrence, Eydie Gormé, Lloyd Price, Neil Sedaka, Bobby Darin, the Animals, Herman's Hermits, the Kinks, Lulu, Donovan, Pete Townshend, and Phil Spector ~ Klein passed away in 2009
December 18, 1930 ~ Operatic baritone singer Barry McDaniel born in Lyndon, Kansas, USA ~ American opera singer spent his career almost excusively in Germany, notable well over three decades at the Deutsche Oper Berlin. Has also worked with the Staatsoper Stuttgart, the Staatstheater Karlsruhe, and the Staatsoper Mainz ~ McDaniel passed away in 2018
December 18, 1929 ~ Jazz drummer Nick Stabulas born in New York, New York, USA ~ Worked extensively as a sideman starting in the mid-1950s including with Phil Woods, Jon Eardley, Jimmy Raney, Eddie Costa, Friedrich Gulda, George Wallington, Al Cohn, Zoot Sims, Gil Evans, Mose Allison, Carmen McRae, Don Elliott, Chet Baker, Kenny Drew, Bill Evans, Lee Konitz, and with Lennie Tristano ~ Stabulas passed away in 1973
December 18, 1928 ~ Musical theaatre, jazz, funk, classical, film composer Galt MacDermot, full name Arthur Terence Galt MacDermot, born in Montreal, Canada ~ Wrote African Waltz, an unexpected hit for Cannonball Adderley in 1960 earning MacDermot a Grammy Award. Perhaps best known for writing the music for the 1967 rock musical Hair, which spawned the hits Aquarius/Let The Sunshine In, Good Morning Starshine and the title track Hair. Earned a Tony Award for Best Musical for his Two Gentlemen Of Verona, premiered in 1971. Composed the soundtracks for Cotton Comes To Harlem, Rhinoceros, and others. Formed the New Pulse Jazz Band in 1979, a jazz band noted for their use of the synthesizer ~ MacDermot passed away in 2018
December 18, 1928 ~ Hard bop, post bop saxophonist Harold Land, full name Harold De Vance Land, born in Houston, Texas, USA ~ Influenced by John Coltrane. Worked with Clifford Brown, Max Roach, Curtis Counce, Bobby Hutcherson, Blue Mitchell, Red Mitchell, Cedar Walton, Buster Williams, Billy Higgins, Curtis Fuller, Jimmy Bond, Roy Ayers, Dolo Coker, Victor Feldman, Herb Geller, Chico Hamilton, Hampton Hawes, Al Hibbler, Elmo Hope, Freddie Hubbard, Carmell Jones, Thelonious Monk, Donald Byrd, Dinah Washington, Gerald Wilson, and others ~ Land passed away in 2001
December 18, 1927 ~ Singer, songwriter Fred Tomlinson born in Lancashire, UK ~ Best known for his association with Monty Python, writing and singing, along with his backing unit the Fred Tomlinson Singers, several of their songs including The Lumberjack Song and Spam ~ Tomlinson passed away in 2016
December 18, 1922 ~ Clarence Horatius Miller, commonly known as jazz, blues singer, bassist Big Miller, born in Sioux City, Iowa, USA ~ Leader and sideman. Worked with Jay McShann, Fletcher Henderson, the Five Pennies, Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Bob Brookmeyer, John Hendricks, Oscar Peterson, Dizzy Gillespie, Miles Davis, Tommy Banks, and Rex Stewart ~ Miller passed away in 1992
December 18, 1920 ~ Edmond Bacri, commonly known as songwriter Eddy Marnay, born in Algiers, Algeria ~ Reportedly wrote more than 4,000 songs during his lifetime. Artists who have recorded his songs include Edith Piaf, Frida Boccara (Un Jour Un Enfant), and Céline Dion ~ Bacri passed away in 2003
December 18, 1919 ~ Jazz guitarist Barry Galbraith, full name Joseph Barry Galbraith, born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA ~ Recorded a handful of albums as a leader, notably The Rhythm Section released in 1956. Had worked with the likes of Babe Russin, Art Tatum, and Claude Thornhill prior to a stint in the US Army. Best known as an in-demand session musician, mostly active during the 1950s and 1960s appearing on albums by Joe Puma, Milt Hinton (Basses Loaded), Charlie Shavers, Don Elliott, Clark Terry, Tito Puente, Joe Newman, Dinah Washington (The Swingin' Miss D), Mildred Bailey, George Russell (The Jazz Workshop), Coleman Hawkins (The Hawk Flies High), Carmen McRae, Billie Holiday (Lady In Satin), Creed Taylor, Urbie Green, Jack Teagarden (Think Well Of Me), Sheila Jordan (Portrait Of Sheila), Stanley Turrentine, Sarah Vaughan, Illinois Jacquet, John Lee Hooker, and Manny Albam ~ Galbraith passed away in 1983
December 18, 1917 ~ Edward L Vinson Jr, commonly known as jump blues, R&B, bebop saxophonist Eddie Cleanhead Vinson, born in Houston, Texas, USA ~ Leader and sideman. As a leader known for Old Maid Boogie and Kidney Stew Blues. Worked with Milt Larkin, Arnett Cobb, Illinois Jacquet, Tom Archia, Big Bill Broonzy, Cootie Williams, John Coltrane, Jay McShann, Johnny Otis, Paul Quinichette, Cannonball Adderley, Mike Bloomfield, Joe Pass, Buddy Tate, Roomful Of Blues, Harry Sweets Edison, and others ~ Vinson passed away in 1988
December 18, 1916 ~ Actress, dancer, singer Betty Grable, full name Elizabeth Ruth Grable, born in St Louis, Missouri, USA ~ Child actress starting her film career at age 12. Came to prominence in the 1939 Broadway musical Du Barry Was A Lady. Made her major Hollywood film debut debut replacing Alice Faye in Down Argentine Way the following year and would go on to become become one of the biggest stars of the decade, starring in over 40 films ~ Grable passed away in 1973
December 18, 1907 ~ Jazz guitarist Lawrence Lucie born in Emporia, Virginia, USA ~ Leader and sideman. Worked with Duke Ellington, Benny Carter, Fletcher Henderson, the Mills Blue Rhythm Band, Lucky Millinder, Coleman Hawkins, Louis Armstrong, Red Allen, Putney Dandridge, Billie Holiday, Spike Hughes, Jelly Roll Morton, Big Joe Turner, Teddy Wilson, Ella Fitzgerald, Spike Hughes, Marion Williams, and others ~ Lucie passed away in 2009
December 18, 1906 ~ Jeanette Salvant, commonly known as pianist Jeanette Kimball, born in Pass Christian, Mississippi, USA ~ Classically trained jazz pianist, with a career spanning seven decades starting in her teens. Took up the piano at age 7, was playing professionally by her mid-teens, initially in classical string ensembles. Well known for her association with Papa Celestin, backing Celestin for about a decade starting in 1926 as a member of the trumpeter's backing unit the Original Tuxedo Orchestra. Kimball married her bandmate banjoist, guitarist Narvin Kimball. After divorcing Narvin, she restarted her career in the mid-1940s. Notable associations include Buddy Charles, Herb Leary, Sidney Desvigne, the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, Alvin Alcorn, Paul Barbarin, Punch Miller, and Johnny St Cyr ~ Salvant passed away in 2001
December 18, 1904 ~ Country singer, guitarist, yodeller, songwriter Wilf Carter, full name Wilfred Arthur Charles Carter, nicknamed Montana Slim, born in Port Hilford, Canada ~ Regarded as the father of Canadian country music. Inspired future country musician with a simple, honest sound. Active since the early-1930s. Injured his back in a 1940 car crash and would be unable to perform for much of the decade, but would continue to record periodically ~ Carter passed away in 1996
December 18, 1897 ~ Bandleader Fletcher Henderson, full name James Fletcher Hamilton Henderson, born in Cuthbert, Georgia, USA ~ Pivotal figure in development of swing and big band jazz. Along with Duke Ellington, one of the most prolific African-American arrangers and bandleaders of his day. Has worked with sidemen such as Don Redman, Howard Scott, Coleman Hawkins, Louis Armstrong, Charlie Dixon, Kaiser Marshall, Buster Bailey, Elmer Chambers, Charlie Green, Ralph Escudero, Red Allen, Joe Smith, Rex Stewart, Tommy Ladnier, Doc Cheatham, Chu Berry, Roy Eldridge, Frank Pronto, Elisha Hanna, and others ~ Henderson passed away in 1952
December 18, 1861 ~ Musical composer Lionel Monckton, full name Lionel John Alexander Monckton, born in London, UK ~ Britain's most popular musical composer in the early 20th century. Well-known works include A Country Girl, Our Miss Gibbs, and perhaps his best known the 1909 hit The Arcadians ~ Monckton passed away in 1924