December 25, 2022 ~ Luis Vamilo Argúmedes Berguido, commonly known as salsa singer Azuquita, passed away in Panama City, Panama ~ Leading salsa singer, active since the mid-1960s. Member of Cuban band Sonora Matancera. As a solo artist especially acclaimed for his 1976 Pura Salsa album. Has also collaborated with Roberto Roena, Ismael Rivera, Rafael Cortijo, Tito Puente (Ce' Magnifique), and the Fania All-Stars ~ Berguido was born in 1946
December 25, 2022 ~ Beat, rock & roll singer, guitarist Brian Casser, also known as Cass and Casey Jones, passed away in Germany ~ Active since the late-1950s fronting several short-lived Liverpool-based bands, noted most for their line-ups. Fronted Nightsounds in the early-1960s, which also included Albert Lee. Fronted Casey Jones & the Engineers, which briefly included Eric Clapton and Tom McGuinness who both left after a few performances ~ Casser was born in 1936
December 25, 2022 ~ Luther Johnson, commonly known as Chicago blues singer, guitarist Luther Guitar Junior Johnson, passed away in Miami, Florida, USA ~ Active since the late-1950s, building up an impressive resume backing numerous blues giants before embarking on a respectable solo career by the mid-1970s. Profited from the 1990s blues boom, attracting a wider audience with a string of acclaimed albums showcasing a soulful voice and solid guitar playing. Notable releases include I Want To Groove With You, Slammin' On The West Side, and Live At The Rynborn. As a sideman Johnson is present on albums by John Lee Hooker, Otis Spann, Muddy Waters (The Unk In Funk), the Nighthawks, Big Leon Brooks (Let's Go To Town), and Willie Kent ~ Johnson was born in 1939
December 25, 2020 ~ Guitarist, singer Tony Rice, full name David Anthony Rice, born in Danville, Virginia, USA ~ Leading acoustic guitarist in bluegrass, progressive bluegrass, newgrass, acoustic jazz. Brother of Wyatt Rice, Ron Rice, Larry Rice. Has worked with JD Crowe & the New South, David Grisman, Jerry Garcia, the Tony Rice Unit, Ricky Skaggs, Béla Fleck, Chris Hillman, Herb Pedersen, Peter Rowan, the Bluegrass Album Band, and others ~ Rice was born in 1951
December 25, 2019 ~ Opera, concert singer, conductor Peter Schreier passed away in Dresden, Germany ~ Started as an alto soloist, notably with Dresdner Kreuzchor, but would turn to tenor parts later on. Considered one of the leading lyric tenors of the 20th century renowned for his lieder singing and opera roles, particularly in works by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Has worked with the Berlin State Opera, the Vienna State Opera, and the Metropolitan Opera ~ Schreier was born in 1935
December 25, 2016 ~ Drummer Alphonse Mouzon passed away in Granada Hills, California, USA ~ Best known as a member of the Weather Report. First gained attention as member of Larry Coryell's fusion band Eleventh House. Has also played with Stevie Wonder, Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck, Carlos Santana, Patrick Moraz, Betty Davis, Chubby Checker, Albert Mangelsdorff, Jaco Pastorius, Chicano, David Paich, Brian Auger, Alex Ligertwood, Ray Parker Jr, Lenny Castro, Vikki Carr, Pete Escovedo, Marcos J Reyes, Siedah Garrett, Walfredo Reyes Jr, Arild Andersen, Donald Byrd, Doug Carn, Norman Connors, Miles Davis, Al di Meola, Roberta Flack, the Fania All-Stars, Carlos Garnett, Herbie Hancock, Miki Howard, Bobbi Humphrey, Joachim Kühn, Les McCann, Eugene McDaniels, Wayne Shorter, McCoy Tyner, Salvador Santana. and with Spencer Davis ~ Mouzon was born in 1948
December 25, 2016 ~ Singer, songwriter Georgios Panayiotou, commonly known as George Michael, passed away in Goring, UK ~ Rose to fame as half of pop duo Wham, the other half being Andrew Ridgeley, known for songs such as Wake Me Up Before You Go Go, Young Guns, and Wham Rap. In 1984 Wham became the first Western pop act to release an album in China, their sophomore Make It Big, and subsequently tour the Orient nation. Embarked on a highly successful solo career in 1987 with Faith, which topped the US album chart for 12 weeks, and has been recording, touring and scoring hits since ~ Panayiotou was born in 1963
December 25, 2009 ~ James Victor Chesnutt, commonly known as folk rock, indie folk, roots rock, alternative country singer, guitarist, songwriter Vic Chesnutt, passed away in Athens, Georgia, USA ~ Debuted in 1990 with his Little album, produced by REM-frontman Michael Stipe. Broke through after the release of 1996's Sweet Relief II (Gravity Of The Situation), a charity album by various alternative artists, including REM, Madonna, the Smashing Pumpkins and Soul Asylum, covering Chesnutt's songs. Chesnutt has recorded well over a dozen albums as a solo artist, and two collaborating with Widespread Panic under the common moniker Brute. Chesnutt has also collaborated with Bob Mould, Lambchop, Elf Power, Bill Frisell, and Guy Picciotto ~ Chesnutt was born in 1964
December 25, 2008 ~ Eartha Mae Keith, commonly known as jazz, torch singer, actress Eartha Kitt passed away in Weston, Connecticut, USA ~ Epitomized the idea of the sex-kitten chanteuse. Rose to fame in the early-1950s, especially noted for her That Bad Eartha released in 1953. Well-known songs include Uska Dara, I Want To Be Evil, Just An Old Fashioned Girl, Santa Baby, Where Is My Man, and perhaps her best known C'Est Si Bon ~ Kitt was born in 1927
December 25, 2008 ~ Guitarist, songwriter Robert Ward, full name Robert Jeryl Ward, passed away in Dry Branch, Georgia, USA ~ Founder of the Ohio Untouchables, a band that would later become the Ohio Players. Ward remained with the Untouchables, including on their best known song and Ward's signature song Your Love Is Amazing, until 1965, leaving before the name change. Ward was seen as an unreliable leader, and would regularly get into fights with band members or walk offstage in the middle of a set ~ Ward was born in 1938
December 25, 2006 ~ R&B, soul, funk singer James Brown passed away in Atlanta, Georgia, USA ~ Known as “the Godfather of Soul”. Pivotal to developement of funk, soul, hip-hop. First gained attention as lead singer of Famous Flames in the late-1950s with songs such as Please Please Please and Try My. Also known for classics such as Papa's Got A Brand New Bag (Part 1), I Got You I Feel Good, It's A Man's Man's Man's World, Cold Sweat, Say It Loud I'm Black And I'm Proud (Part 1), Get Up I Feel Like Being A Sex Machine Part 1, Hot Pants and numerous others. Beloved bandleader, collaborator, mentor to many including Bobby Byrd, Lynn Collins, Pee Wee Ellis, Fred Wesley, Clyde Stubblefield, Bootsy Collins, Marva Whitney, and others ~ Brown was born in 1933
December 25, 2005 ~ Avant-garde jazz guitarist Derek Bailey passed away in London, UK ~ Leader and sideman. Important figure in free improvisation, expanding the guitar experimenting with atonality and noise. Active since the early-1950s. Formed the the Joseph Holbrooke Trio with Tony Oxley and Gavin Bryars. Perhaps best known for co-founding the Spontaneous Music Ensemble. Has also worked with the London Jazz Composers Orchestra, Company, Arcana, Han Bennink, Anthony Braxton, Jamie Muir, John Zorn, Louis Moholo, Noël Akchoté, Trevor Watts, Jamaaladeen Tacuma, Fred Frith, Iskra, Kenny Wheeler, Thurston Moore, and David Sylvian ~ Bailey was born in 1930
December 25, 2003 ~ Singer Nicola Paone passed away in Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA ~ Italian-American singer, best known for his songs about the joys and hardships of Italian immigrants. Occasionally referred to as “the Italian Bing Crosby”, Paone would enjoy popularity, peaking in the 1950s, with songs such as U Sciccareddu, Tony The Iceman, The Big Professor, and perhaps his best known Blah Blah Blah. Tired of touring Paone would retire from music by the late-1950s to pursue a career in the restaurant business. His Nicola Paone Restaurant would quickly become one of the top Italian eateries in New York, with Paone himself assuming some of the cooking duties. Over the course of its 50 years existence the restaurant has served every single New York mayor ~ Paone was born in 1915
December 25, 1998 ~ Psychedelic rock, folk rock, garage rock, baroque pop singer, guitarist, songwriter Bryan MacLean, full name Bryan Andrew MacLean, passed away in Los Angeles, California, USA ~ Son of architect to the stars, MacLean grew up among Hollywood elite. Recognised by neighbour songwriter as a “melodic genius” at a young age. His first girlfriend was Liza Minnelli. Best known as lead singer, primary songwriter of Love, with whom he recorded three critically acclaimed albums during the mid-1960s, Love, Da Capo, and Forever Changes. Following the band's disbandement, MacLean long disappeared from public view releasing a number of solo albums decades later ~ MacLean was born in 1946
December 25, 1998 ~ Singer, actress, comedian Damita Jo DeBlanc, commonly known simply as Damita Jo, passed away in Baltimore, Maryland, USA ~ As a solo artist best known for the early-1960s answer songs, namely I'll Save The Last Dance For You as a reply to the Drifters' Save The Last Dance For Me and I'll Be There as a reply to Ben E King's Stand By Me. Had sung with the Five Red Caps during the 1950s. Has also worked with Ray Charles, Count Basie, Lionel Hampton, Billy Eckstine and Bobby Tucker ~ DeBlanc was born in 1930
December 25, 1996 ~ William Beck, commonly known as singer Johnny Sandon, passed away in Rock Ferry, UK ~ Merseybeat singer best known as a member of Remo 4, including on the singles Lies and Yes. As a solo artist best known for mid-1960s recordings such as Sixteen Tons, Donna Means Heartbreak and The Blizzard. Also a member of the Searchers. Shared a manager, Brian Epstein, with the Beatles ~ Beck was born in 1941
December 25, 1995 ~ Dino Paul Crocetti, commonly known as singer, actor, comedian Dean Martin, passed away in Beverly Hills, California, USA ~ Nicknamed “the King of Cool” for his charisma and self-assurance. Broke through as half of the comedy duo Martin & Lewis with comedian Jerry Lewis. Member of the Rat Pack alongside Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis Jr. Appeared in over 80 films and TV productions including as host of his own variety program, The Dean Martin Show. As a singer revered for his relaxed, smooth crooning voice, scoring hits such as Memories Are Made Of This, That's Amore, Everybody Loves Somebody, You're Noboby Till Somebody Loves You, Sway, Ain't That A Kick In The Head and Volare ~ Crocetti was born in 1917
December 25, 1988 ~ Singer, songwriter Marco Mengoni born in Ronciglione, Italy ~ First gained attention in 2009 by winning the third season of the Italian edition of The X-Factor. Released his full-length debut album, Solo 2.0, in 2011. Known for songs such as Dove Si Vola and Credimi Ancora. Internationally best known for representing Italy at the 2013 Eurovision Songfestival with L'Essenziale, reaching 7th place
December 25, 1986 ~ Pop, soul singer, songwriter Alex Hepburn born in London, UK ~ Inspired by classic blues and soul, Hepburn released her Together Alone debut album in 2013 which was warmly received especially on the European continent, spawning the modest hit Under. Hepburn had previously gained attentions as support act for Bruno Mars during his 2010 Doo-wops & Hooligans tour. Hepburn has also opened for Lianne La Havas, Alex Clare, Texas, Amy MacDonald, and James Morrison
December 25, 1985 ~ Blues, electric blues guitarist, singer Eddie Taylor passed away in Chicago, Illinois, USA ~ Best known for his work with Jimmy Reed, providing the groove for most of the singer's recordings during the 1950s and early-1960s. Taylor also recorded a number of solo singles during the 1950s, notably Bad Boy, Ride 'Em On Down, and Big Town Playboy, though warmly received he never became a household name. Taylor has also guested on albums by Kenny Graham, John Lee Hooker (I'm John Lee Hooker), Curtis Jones, Homesick James, Carey Bell (Carey Bell's Blues Harp), John Littlejohn, Big Walter Horton, and Elmore James ~ Taylor was born in 1923
December 25, 1984 ~ Identical twin sisters, singers, songwriters Jessica Origliasso and Lisa Origliasso born in Albany Creek, Australia ~ Recorded as Australian pop duo the Veronicas, best known for hits such as 4Ever, Hook Me Up and Untouched, the latter also reaching the American Billboard top 20 in 2007
December 25, 1982 ~ R&B, hip-hop, pop, rock singer, pianist, guitarist, bassist, drummer, songwriter Chris René, full name Christopher René, born in Santa Cruz, California, USA ~ First gained serious attention in 2012 finishing third on the talent show The X-Factor USA with his original composition Young Homie. Released his major label debut album I'm Right Here later the same year.
December 25, 1981 ~ Pianist Zaccai Curtis born in New York, New York, USA ~ As a solo artist debuted in 2000 with Insight. Sessioned and toured with Cindy Blackman, Brian Lynch, Ralph Peterson, Ray Vega, Antoine Roney, Wallace Roney, Jerry González, Papo Vasquez, Donald Harrison, Stacie Orrico, Jimmy Greene, Pedrito Martinez, Joe Ford, and others
December 25, 1979 ~ Folk, indie folk, pop rock singer, guitarist William Tyler, full name Willim Armistead Tyler, born in Nashville, Tennessee, USA ~ Son of songwriters Dan Tyler and Adele Tyler. Tyler released his Behold The Spirit solo debut album in 2010 and has recorded to critical acclaim since. Had previously played with Lambchop from 2000 through 2006, first appearing on the Is A Woman album, and with Silver Jews on the albums Bright Flight and Tanglewood Numbers. Tyler also co-produced Survivor of Mary J Blige's 2017 Strength Of A Woman album
December 25, 1976 ~ Trance, progressive trance DJ, producer Armin Van Buuren, full name Armin Jozef Jacobus Daniel van Buuren, born in Leiden, the Netherlands ~ First gained attention in the mid to late-1990s with recordings such as Blue Fear, Communication and Touch Me. Released his major label full-length debut album, 76, in 2000 and has recorded steadily since to commercial success. Internationally best known for his 2013 single This Is What It Feels Like featuring Trevor Guthrie, which charted well across Europe and reached top 10 in the UK, Austria and the Netherlands. Has also worked with Tiësto, Justine Suissa, Jan Vayne (Serenity), Nadia Ali, Racoon, Jacqueline Govaert, Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Paul Oakenfold, Mr Probz, Jean-Michel Jarre, Ørjan Nilsen, Conrad Sewell, and Marco Borsato
December 25, 1976 ~ In its fifteenth week on the charts More Than A Feeling by Boston peaks at No.5 Billboard Hot 100 ~ One of six songs, five of which ended up on Boston's eponymous Boston debut album, that the band's thriving force Tom Scholz has spent six years on to complete in his basement prior to the band being signed in 1975. Both contemporary and retrospective critical reviews have hailed the power ballad, the Los Angeles Times calling More Than A Feeling a “marvelously appealing pop-rock single”, while Cash Box stated the song is a “hard-rock offering, but has a sophisticated melody that makes good use of minor chords”. The song has gone on to become a staple of classic rock radio, popular to this day. The Boston parent album would hold the top spot for best selling debut album for some three decades until dethroned by Appetite For Destruction by Guns 'n Roses. Throughout the years, Boston has sold over an estimated 20 million copies. At the time of its release, once the album was completed Boston's Tom Scholz returned to his day job after a leave of absence, as he was not sure his music would find an audience
December 25, 1976 ~ Symphonic metal, progressive folk keyboardist, saxophonist, guitarist, bassist, percussionist, producer, songwriter Tuomas Holopainen born in Kitee, Finland ~ Best known as founder, main creative force of female-fronted symphonic metal band Nightwish, with whom he has recorded well over a dozen albums since the late 1990s. The band has earned wide critical acclaim the world over, is especially acclaimed for the albums Oceanborn, Century Child, and End Of An Era, and ranks as one of the all-time best selling Finnish acts. Holopainen has also worked with Nattvindens Gråt, Darkwoods My Betrothed, For My Pain, and Auri
December 25, 1973 ~ Alternative rock drummer, singer Dalia Shusterman, full name Dalia Garih Shusterman, born in Montreal, Canada ~ Best known as member of psychedelic rock band Hopewell, known for their 1998 Contact and its acclaimed 1999 follow-up The Curved Glass. Following the band's dissolution in 2001 retired from music, focusing on her marriage and family life. Reemerged after the death of her husband, forming the alternative rock group Bulletproof Stockings. Formed jazz, klezmer group the New Moon All-Stars Party Band in 2017 with Bulletproof bandmate Dana Pestun
December 25, 1972 ~ Wilbur Odell Bascomb, commonly known as trumpeter Dud Bascomb, passed away in New York, New York, USA ~ Best known for his association with Erskine Hawkins. Has also worked with Duke Ellington, Lou Donaldson, Buddy Tate, James Brown (including on the 1969 Say It Loud I'm Black And I'm Proud album), Freddie McCoy, and others ~ Bascomb was born in 1916
December 25, 1972 ~ Christian rock singer, guitarist, songwriter Mac Powell, full name Johnny Mac Powell, born in Clanton, USA ~ Best known for founding Christian rock outfit Third Day with Mark Lee. Has also recorded as a solo artist and is an in-demand collaborator working with artists such as Carolyn Arends, Jennifer Knapp, Fernando Ortega, Max Lucado, Jeff Deyo, Randy Travis, Michael W Smith, Jason Wade, Brooks & Dunn, Andy Mineo, and others
December 25, 1971 ~ Dido Florian Cloud de Bounvialle O'Malley Armstrong, commonly known as singer, songwriter Dido, born in Kensington, UK ~ Plays piano, guitar and percussion. Gained immediate international succes with her 1999 debut album No Angel, spawning the hit singles Here With Me and Thank You. Along with her sophomore album, 2003's Life For Rent, it ranks among the best-selling albums in UK chart history
December 25, 1971 ~ In its ninth week on the charts, Brand New Key by Melanie hits No.1 Billboard Hot 100 for the first of three consecutive weeks ~ Also known as “the Rollerskate song” due to its chorus, the self-penned Brand New Key would be the folk, folk-pop singer's biggest hit, reaching top 10 in over half a dozen countries, and her sole Billboard Hot 100 charttopper. The “key” Melanie sings about is a skate key, an adjustment tool to fit roller skates, at the time metal contraceptions, to the foot. After she wrote the song, she figured it would make a nice interlude on her album, a lighthearted novelty between her more earnest material. Husband and producer Peter Schekeryk had other ideas though, and put doo-wop backing vocals on the track, making it super catchy. The singer would later comment: “I'm sure if Brand New Key had lived its life before my husband recorded it, it would have come out as a blues, swampy thing and nobody would have ever heard it. That would have been that. But he'd say, ‘Melanie, that's a hit.’ I'd say, ‘No, it can't be.’”
December 25, 1971 ~ Guitarist, songwriter Noel Hogan born in Limerick, Ireland ~ Founding member, lead guitarist of the Cranberries, known for mid-1990s hits such as Linger, Salvation and their best known Zombie, all of which reached top 10 in the band's native Ireland
December 25, 1971 ~ Keyboardist, producer, songwriter Tjeerd Oosterhuis born in Amsterdam, the Netherlands ~ Formed the core of Total Touch, along with his sister lead singer Trijntje Oosterhuis, known for 1990s hits such as Touch Me There and Somebody Else's Lover. Would venture into producing and songwriting working with artists such as Candy Dulfer, Mathilde Santing, K-otic, Gordon, Re-play, Di-rect, Alain Clark, Petra Berger, Hind, Doe Maar singer Henny Vrienten, Gerard Joling, Madcon (Freaky Like Me), his wife Edsilia Rombley (On Top Of The World), Glennis Grace, Berget Lewis, Kinderen Voor Kinderen and Dutch girl supergroup the Ladies Of Soul
December 25, 1970 ~ Punk rock guitarist Ai Ishigaki born in Yokohama, Japan ~ Started as a roadie joining punk rockers the Mad Capsule Markets as full-time guitarist in 1990, first appearing on the 1991 POP sophomore album. After his departure from the band in 1996 Ishigaki has recorded solo material and teamed up with the likes of Tomoyasu Hotei and others
December 25, 1967 ~ Alternative rock, indie rock, lo-fi, hardcore punk drummer, guitarist, bassist, keyboardist, singer, songwriter Eric Gaffney born in Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA ~ Co-founding member of Grey Matter. Joined No Preservatives as lead singer in 1984. Co-founded the Gracefully Aging Hippy Soloists with Charlie Ondras. Perhaps best known as co-founding member indie rock band Sebadoh, known for songs such as Ocean and Flame, remaining with the band through 2008
December 25, 1967 ~ Bassist Jason Thirsk, full name Jason Matthew Thirsk, born in USA ~ Founding member of punk rock outfit Pennywise, remaining with the band from its inception in 1988 until his death by suicide in 1996. Present on the band's 1995 breakthrough About Time album. The band recruited One Hit Wonder bassist Randy Bradbury and continue to record. Their next album, 1997's Full Circle, would be dedicated to Thirsk and contain several songs carrying an anti-suicide message ~ Thirsk passed away in 1996
December 25, 1965 ~ In its seventh week on the charts, Over And Over by the Dave Clark Five hits No.1 Billboard Hot 100 ~ Written by Robert James Byrd and first recorded in 1958 by Bobby Day, who featured the song as the flip side to Rockin' Robin. The most successful version, however, was recorded in 1965 by British beat group the Dave Clark Five, the single at the time described by Cash Box as a “lively, hard-driving rendition (with) a danceable, pulsating beat”. Despite the song's popularity in both America and across Europe, the single would fail to make to top 40 in the band's native UK, where it stalled at No.45. The band was one of the most successful British Invasion acts in America, charting well over a dozen top 40 hits including several that did not chart as highly in their native UK, where they were best known for their 1964 Glad All Over charttopper. The band continued to record throughout the remainder of the decade, and disbanded in 1970
December 25, 1965 ~ Jazz flugelhornist Dmitri Matheny born in Nashville, Tennessee, USA ~ Worked with the True Color Big Band, the New Voice Jazz Sextet, Mark Gross, Antonio Hart, Peter Herbert, Hans Schuman, Art Farmer, Larry Coryell, Nathan Davis, Amina Figarova, Tommy Flanagan, Wycliffe Gordon, Larry Grenadier, John Handy, Billy Higgins, Red Holloway, Denise Jannah, James Moody, Tony Reedus, Martha Reeves, Sam Rivers, Max Roach, Dennis Rowland, the Rosenberg Trio, Bobby Rydell, Bud Shank, Shea Marshall, Sonny Simmons, Mary Stallings, Bobby Watson, Paula West, Janice Jarrett, Dave Ellis, Ken Schaphorst, and others
December 25, 1964 ~ Robert Andrew Shukman, commonly known as synth-pop, indie dance, indie pop DJ, keyboardist Bob Stanley, born in Horsham, UK ~ Member of indie dance trio Saint Etienne, alongside Bob Stanley and Sarah Cracknell, known for songs such as 7 Ways To Love, You're In A Bad Way, He's On The Phone, Sylvie
December 25, 1962 ~ Dean Eikleberry, commonly known as actor, bassist Dean Cameron, born in Morrison, Illinois, USA ~ Best known as an actor. As a musician known as a member of the Thornbirds. Also co-penned Girl From Oklahoma and Supersonic Sex Machine for Steel Panther
December 25, 1962 ~ Christian Fennesz, mononymously known as ambient, electronica, noise guitarist, composer Fennesz, born in Austria ~ Critically acclaimed for his 2001 Endless Summer album. Has collaborated with artists such as Ryuichi Sakamoto, Jim O'Rourke, Ulver, David Sylvian, King Midas Sound, and others
December 25, 1962 ~ Singer, songwriter Francis Dunnery born in Egremont, UK ~ Fronted progressive rock outfit It Bites from 1982 to 1990, known for the UK top 10 single Calling All The Heroes. Has backed Robert Plant on tour. Recorded about a dozen albums as a solo artist, noted especially for Let's Go Do What Happens released in 1998. Guested on albums by the Mad Bats, Lauryn Hill (The Miseducation Of Lauryn Hill), Santana, Paul Oakenfold, and the Syn
December 25, 1959 ~ Jazzz saxophonist, flutist, composer Dale Barlow born in Sydney, Australia ~ Worked with Cedar Walton, the Jazz Messengers, Sonny Stitt, Chet Baker, Gil Evans, Jackie McLean, Billy Cobham, Dizzy Gillespie, Curtis Fuller, Eddie Palmieri, Benny Golson, Lee Konitz, Helen Merrill, Mulgrew Miller, Kenny Barron, Ray Drummond, Dave Kikowski, Richie Cole, Billy Higgins, Freddie Hubbard, Wynton Marsalis, Cindy Blackman, Ernie Watts, Eddie Henderson, Jeff Tain-Watts, Essiet Essiet, Bennie Green, Mike Nock, Bruce Cale, the Benders, Roger Frampton, Vince Jones, Margaret Urlich, Kate Ceberano, Indra Lesmana, Dwiki Dharmawan, Paul Grabowsky, Lloyd Swanton, Tony Buck, Daryl Pratt, Peter O'Mara, Steve Brien, and others
December 25, 1959 ~ Violinist, pianist, accordionist, songwriter, film composer Paul Cantelon born in Glendale, California, USA ~ Co-founding member of Wild Colonials. Has also worked with Yo-Yo Ma, Joe Cocker, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, George Clinton, Everclear, Ry Cooder, Perla Betalla, Lil Haydn, Loup Garou, Sara Sant'Ambrogio, and others
December 25, 1958 ~ Singer, songwriter Alannah Myles born in Toronto, Canada ~ Internationally best known for Black Velvet of her eponymous 1989 Alannah Myles debut album. The single would be a smash hit in America and throughout Europe. She would continue to have moderate success with subsequent recordings, notably 1992's Song Instead Of A Kiss, in the UK and the Netherlands but never repeated the success of Black Velvet. She would however regularly hit the Canadian charts with songs such as 1993's Sonny Say You Will and 1995's Family Secret
December 25, 1958 ~ Music director, conductor Doc Cook passed away ~ Best known for leading Doc Cook's Dreamland Orchestra, which at times included musicians such as Freddie Keppard, Jimmie Noone, Johnny St Cyr, Zutty Singleton, Joe Poston, Andrew Hilaire, Luis Russell, and others. Also frequently collaborated with Eubie Blake, including arranging the 1952 revival of Shuffle Along musical ~ Cook was born in 1891
December 25, 1958 ~ Rock guitarist, singer Joe Jewell born in Dublin, Ireland ~ Lead guitarist for Irish rock band Aslan, enjoying success since the late-1980s. Co-wrote a vast amount of the band's best known including Crazy World, This Is, Where's The Sun, and Hurt Sometimes
December 25, 1957 ~ Percussionist, dancer, singer Dudu Ndlovu, full name Dudu Mntowaziwayo Ndlovu, born in South Africa ~ Member of Juluka. Member of Savuka. Fatally shot at age 34 while walking home. The following year Johnny Clegg and Savuka recorded their Heat Dust & Dreams album, the track The Crossing (Osiyeza) dedicated to Ndlovu ~ Ndlovu passed away in 1992
December 25, 1957 ~ Singer, guitarist, pianist, songwriter Jan Rot born in Makassar, Indonesia ~ Member of Streetbeats. Member of Ratata. Debuted as a solo artist with the album Single released in 1982. To pop audiences perhaps best known for the singles Counting Sheep, Op Een Mooie Pinksterdag with Rick de Leeuw, and Naast Jou with Boudewijn de Groot. Earned critical acclaim and peer admiration from the 2000s onwards for Dutch translations of pop, rock songs originally by the Rolling Stones, Elvis Presley, Simon & Garfunkel and Bob Dylan, as well as translations of musicals and classical works, notably Johann Sebastian Bach's Matteus Passion ~ Rot passed away in 2022
December 25, 1957 ~ Punk rock singer Shane MacGowan, full name Shane Patrick Lysaght MacGowan, born in Pembury, UK ~ Lead singer of the Pogues from its inception in 1982 through 1991, rejoined in 2001. Merging the raw energy and anger of punk with Irish folk and instrumentation the band rose to fame in the 1980s, and would become especially acclaimed for the albums Rum Sodomy & The Lash and If I Should Fall From Grace With God. MacGowan was also a member of the Nipple Erectors and of the Popes, and has collaborated with Joe Strummer, Nick Cave, Steve Earle, the Jesus & Mary Chain, the Dropkick Murphys, Sinéad O'Connor, and Ronnie Drew ~ MacGowan passed away in 2023
December 25, 1956 ~ Singer, drummer, songwriter Terry Anderson, full name Terry Randall Anderson, born ~ Wrote Battleship Chains, recorded by the Georgia Satellites on their 1986 eponymous the Georgia Satellites album. Member of Yayhoos, which also included Satellites' member Dan Baird. Released his solo debut album, You Don't Like Me, in 1995
December 25, 1954 ~ Singer, pianist, songwriter Annie Lennox born in Aberdeen, UK ~ Rose to fame in the 1980s as half of Eurythmics, alongside romantic partner Dave Stewart, known for songs such as Sweet Dreams (Are Made Of This), Who's That Girl, Here Comes The Rain Again, Sexcrime (Nineteen Eighty-Four) and There Must Be An Angel (Playing With My Heart). Embarked on a highly successful solo career after the band broke up, debuting with the Diva in 1992. As a solo artist known for songs such as Put A Little Love In Your Heart with Al Green, Why, Walking On Broken Glass, Love Song For A Vampire, and No More I Love You's
December 25, 1954 ~ John Marshall Alexander, commonly known as R&B singer, pianist Johnny Ace, passed away in Houston, Texas, USA ~ Worked with BB King, Bobby Blue Bland, Junior Parker, Earl Forest, Rosco Gordon, and Ike Turner. As a solo artist, Ace is known for a string of early-1950s hits including Cross My Heart, Please Forgive Me, The Clock, Yes Baby, Saving My Love For You, Never Let Me Go and perhaps his best known Pledging My Love. The latter posthumously became an R&B charttopper in 1955 after Ace died of an accidental self-inflicted gunshot wound the previous year ~ Alexander was born in 1929
December 25, 1954 ~ Guitarist, songwriter Robin Campbell born in Birmingham, UK ~ Co-founding and longtime member of UB40, known for songs such as Red Red Wine, Can't Help Falling In Love and I Got You Babe
December 25, 1954 ~ Steven Noel Wariner, commonly known as country singer, guitarist, songwriter Steve Wariner born in Noblesville, Indiana, USA ~ Backed artists such as Dottie West, Bob Luman and Chet Atkins before embarking on a solo career. Released his eponymous Steve Wariner debut album in 1982 and has been recording steadily since. Known for songs such as All Roads Lead To You, Some Fools Never Learn, You Can Dream Of Me, Life's Highway, Small Town Girl, The Weekend, Lynda, Where Did I Go Wrong and I Got Dreams, all of which would top Billboard's country charts
December 25, 1949 ~ Louis Joseph Walker, commonly known as blues, blues pop singer, guitarist Joe Louis Walker, born in San Francisco, California, USA ~ Influenced by T-Bone Walker, BB King, Meade Lux Lewis, Amos Milburn, Wilson Pickett, James Brown, Bobby Womack, Otis Redding. Worked with John Lee Hooker, JJ Malone, Buddy Miles, Otis Rush, the Oxford Circle, Thelonious Monk, the Soul Stirrers, Willie Dixon, Charlie Musselwhite, Nick Lowe, John Mayall, Earl Hooker, Muddy Waters, Jimi Hendrix, Bonnie Raitt, Steve Cropper, Tower Of Power, Ike Turner, and others
December 25, 1948 ~ Singer Merry Clayton born in New Orleans, Louisiana, USA ~ Best known for guesting on the Rolling Stones classic Gimme Shelter
December 25, 1947 ~ Singer, drummer, guitarist, songwriter Pepe Smith, full name Joseph William Feliciano Smith, born in Angeles, Philippines ~ Rose to prominence as member of pioneering Filipino rock band the Juan de la Cruz Band, alongside guitarist Wally Gonzales and bassist Mike Hanopol. When drummer Edmon Fortuno joined the trio a few years later Smith would switch to playing guitar ~ Smith passed away in 2019
December 25, 1946 ~ Singer, songwriter Jimmy Buffett, full name James William Buffett, born in Pascagoula, Mississippi, USA ~ Over two dozen albums to his name since the early-1970s, steadily growing his devoted fanbase lovingly referred to as “parrotheads”. Buffett is especially known for his laidback island escapism lifestyle and witty lyrics as evidenced in songs such as Margaritaville, Changes In Latitudes Changes In Attitudes, Come Monday, Pencil Thin Mustache, A Pirate Looks At Forty and Cheeseburger In Paradise. Noted musicians who passed through the ranks of Buffett's backing unit the Coral Reefer Band include in-demand percussionists such as Ralph MacDonald, Russ Kunkel and Kenny Buttrey, bassist Timothy B Schmit of Poco and the Eagles, progressive country singer, guitarist Jerry Jeff Walker, and fiddler Vassar Clements. Artists who on occasion have performed or recorded with Buffett, earning them status as “honorary Coral Reefers”, include Paul McCartney, Rita Coolidge, Steve Cropper, Steve Winwood, John Hiatt, Roy Orbison, JD Souther, Brian Wilson of the Beach Boys, James Taylor, and Sheryl Crow ~ Buffett passed away in 2023
December 25, 1945 ~ Conductor Michail Jurowski, full name Michail Vladimirovich Jurowski, born in Moscow, Russia ~ Internationally acclaimed conductor best known for his association with several leading German orchestras from the late-1970s forward including the Komische Oper Berlin, the Staatsoper Dresden, the Nordwestdeutsche Philharmonie, the Berlin Radio Symphony Orchestra, and others. Regarded an authority on the works of Dmitri Shostakovich ~ Jurowski passed away in 2022
December 25, 1945 ~ Bassist, guitarist, singer Noel Redding, full name David Noel Redding, born in Folkestone, UK ~ Rose to fame as member of the Jimi Hendrix Experience, accompanying Jimi Hendrix on the albums Are You Experienced, Axis (Bold As Love) and Electric Ladyland. Co-founded Fat Mattress with Neil Landon, leaving after the 1969 eponymous Fat Mattress debut album. Reddign would go on to work with the Road, Noel Redding Band, Randy California, Cork, Mountain, and the British Invasion All-Stars ~ Redding passed away in 2003
December 25, 1944 ~ Bassist, producer Emory Gordy Jr, full name Emory Lee Gordy Jr, born in Atlanta, Georgia, USA ~ Discovered by Joe South. Co-wrote Traces, a hit for Classics IV. Arranged Roy Orbison's Walk On and the Winstons's Color Him Father. Member of Emmylou Harris's backing unit the Emmylou Harris Hot Band alongside James Burton, Rodney Crowell and others. Member of the Notorious Cherry Bombs. Backed John Denver touring the USA, Australia, Europe. Co-produced Steve Earle's acclaimed Guitar Town and Exit 0 albums. Has also worked with Billy Joel, Neil Diamond, Gram Parsons, Linda Ronstadt, José Feliciano, Carole Bayer Sager, JJ Cale, Kenny Rogers, Jimmy Buffett, Nicolette Larson, and Matraca Berg
December 25, 1944 ~ Guitarist Henry Vestine, full name Henry Charles Vestine, born in Takoma Park, Maryland, USA ~ Influenced by T-Bone Walker, Sonny Sharrock, Freddie King, Albert Collins, John Lee Hooker. Briefly a member of Frank Zappa's backing unit the Mothers Of Invention, leaving shortly before the recording of their debut album. Co-founding member of Canned Heat, remaining with the band from 1966 through 1969 and rejoining on occasion in later years. Present on the band's first four albums, Canned Heat, Boogie With Canned Heat, Living The Blues, and Hallelujah. Missed the famed 1969 the Woodstock Music and Art Fair gig, having quit the band the week before. Has alo worked with avant-garda jazz saaxophonist Albert Ayler ~ Vestine passed away in 1997
December 25, 1944 ~ Jonathan Edwards, commonly known as soul singer John Edwards, born in St Louis, Missouri, USA ~ Best known as lead singer of the Spinners from 1977 to 2000, present on the hit Working My Way Back To You. Previously a moderately successful solo singer known for songs such as Stop This Merry Go Round, Messing Up A Good Thing, and perhaps his best known Careful Man
December 25, 1943 ~ Gospel, blues, R&B, funk, pop guitarist, singer, songwriter Arthur Adams born in Medon, Tennessee, USA ~ Influenced by BB King, the Dixie Hummingbirds, Elmore James, Muddy Waters. Prolific songwriter. In-demand session and touring musician. Has worked with Lightnin' Hopkins, Chuck Berry, Lowell Fulson, Buddy Guy, Jimmy Beck, Quincy Jones, the Bihari Brothers, Hugh Masekela, the Jackson 5, Henry Mancini, Lou Rawls, Willie Hutch, Sonny Bono, Nancy Wilson, and Kim Weston. His solo debut album, It's Private Tonight, in 1972, was produced by Bonnie Raitt and Tommy Lipuma and featured backing from the Crusaders-members Joe Sample and Wilton Felder
December 25, 1943 ~ Jacqueline McShee, commonly known as singer Jacqui McShee, born in Catford, UK ~ Best known as co-founding, longtime member of jazz-influenced folk rock outfit Pentangle, one of the earliest and most influential exponents of the British folk rock movement. Married to Fairport Convention drummer Gerry Conway
December 25, 1943 ~ Latozi Mpahleni, commonly known as traditional bow player Madosini, born ~ Played traditional South African instruments such as the uhadi and mhrubhe musical bows, considered a national treasure in her field. Achieved international fame through her performances at the WOMAD festivals and collaborations with a wide array of musicians including rock singer Patrick Duff, Afrosoul artist Thandiswa Mazwai, and MPB, samba singer Gilberto Gil, performing around the world until her death ~ Mpahleni passed away in 2022
December 25, 1943 ~ Folk, folk-rock singer, guitarist, bassist, producer, songwriter Trevor Lucas born in Bungaree, Australia ~ Virtually unknown in his native Australia, Lucas is regarded as a notable figure in 1960s, 1970s folk-rock boom in the UK through for his associations with Fairport Convention, present on albums such as Unhalfbricking and What We Did On Our Holidays, Fotheringay, and through his marriage to bandmate and singer Sandy Denny from 1973 until her death in 1978. Lucas released his Overlander solo debut album in 1966, has appeared on recordings by Al Stewart, Luther Grosvenor, the Strawbs (Grave New World), the Bunch, Richard Thompson, and the Bunch ~ Lucas passed away in 1989
December 25, 1942 ~ Blues, rock keyboardist, songwriter, producer Barry Goldberg, full name Barry Joseph Goldberg, born in Chicago, Illinois, USA ~ Sat in with Muddy Waters, Otis Rush, Howlin' Wolf, while still in his teens. Played keyboards with the Paul Butterfield Blues Band backing Bob Dylan at the 1965 the Newport Folk Festival. Present on Devil With A Blue Dress On, a 1966 Billboard Hot 100 top hit for Mitch Ryder & the Detroit Wheels. Co-founded the Electric Flag in 1967 with Mike Bloomfield. Would go on to record as a solo artist and in-demand collaborator. Has worked with Leonard Cohen, the Ramones, the Flying Burrito Brothers, Stephen Stills, the Rides, Percy Sledge, Charlie Musselwhite, and Carla Olson. As a solo artist perhaps best known for I've Got To Use My Imagination, covered by Gladys Knight & the Pips, Bobby Blue Bland, Martha Reeves, Joe Cocker. Other songs co-penned by Goldberg include Do You Know How It Feels (the International Submarine Band), It Makes Me Feel Good (Cilla Black), It's Not The Spotlight (Gerry Goffin, Rod Stewart, the Manhattan Transfer), and Lookin' For A Lovin' (Ann Peebles)
December 25, 1941 ~ Jazz pianist, organist Don Pullen, full name Don Gabriel Pullen, born in Roanoke, Virginia, USA ~ Pianist, composer with great variety of his body of work, ranging from blues to bebop and modern jazz. Recorded well over a dozen albums leading usually smaller ensembles or as a solo pianist. Well known albums include Capricorn Rising, Tomorrow's Promises, and Random Thoughts. Pullen is closely associated with Giuseppi Logan, Charles Mingus, David Murray, Hamiet Bluiett, and notably George Adams, co-leading a quartet with the latter from the late-1970s through the late-1980s. Pullen has also guested on albums by the likes of Milford Graves, Sunny Murray (Hard Cores), Billy Hart, Cecil McBee, Marcello Melis, Ivo Perelman, Jack Walrath, Maceo Parker (Life On Planet Groove), and Jane Bunnett ~ Pullen passed away in 1995
December 25, 1941 ~ Latin jazz, hard bop, pop, soul saxophonist, clarinetist, flutist Ronnie Cuber, full name Ronald Edward Cuber, born in New York, New York, USA ~ Leader and sideman. Active since the late-1950s. As a leader active since the mid-1970s, with well over a dozen albums to his name especially acclaimed for the albums Cuber Libre, The Scene Is Clean, NYC Ats and Ronnie. In-demand sideman in jazz, pop and soul, appearing on recordings by Slide Hampton, Maynard Ferguson, George Benson, Dr Lonnie Smith, Lee Konitz, Frank Zappa, Patti Austin, the J Geils Band (Freeze Frame), Grant Green, Billy Joel (Innocent Man), Paul Simon (Graceland), and Dr John ~ Cuber passed away in 2022
December 25, 1940 ~ Singer, songwriter, poet Pete Brown, full name Peter Ronald Brown, born in Ashtead, UK ~ Had his first poem published at age 14. Founded the First Real Poetry Band which also featured guitarist John McLaughlin. Also associated with Pete Brown & Piblokto, Battered Ornaments, and Cream. Co-penned some of the latter's best known songs including I Feel Free, White Room, and The Sunshine Of Your Love. Has also worked with Graham Bond, Phil Ryan, and Gary Brooker ~ Brown passed away in 2023
December 25, 1939 ~ Jazz, smooth jazz, jazz fusion, jazz-funk keyboardist, composer Bob James, full name Robert McElhiney James, born in Marshall, Missouri, USA ~ Discovered by Quincy Jones who signed talent contest winner James and produced his 1963 Bold Conceptions debut album. His early songs such as Nautilus, Take Me To The Mardi Grass and Westchester Lady have often been sampled in hip-hop including by Eric B & Rakim, Run-DMC, LL Cool J, Missy Elliott, will.i.am, Common, the Wu-Tang Clan. Founding member of 4play. Wrote and recorded Angela (Theme From Taxi). Co-wrote Grover Washington Jr's Black Frost. Co-wrote Kenny Loggins's Celebrate Me Home. Has worked with Roberta Flack, Creed Taylor, David Sanborn, Kirk Whalum, and the CTI All-Stars
December 25, 1939 ~ Charles Alias, commonly known as drummer, percussionist Don Alias, born in New York, New York, USA ~ Noted for his marching band-inspired drums on Miles Runs The Voodoo Down of Miles Davis' pivotal Bitches Brew album. Also present on albums by Jeremy Steig, Elvin Jones, the Weather Report, Jaco Pastorius (Jaco Pastorius), Chick Corea, Blood Sweat & Tears, Charlie Mariano, Joni Mitchell, the Brecker Brothers, Airto Moreira, John Scofield (Loud Jazz), David Sanborn, Carla Bley (Fleur Carnivore), Roberta Flack, Kenny Kirkland, Marc Cohn (Marc Cohn), and Al Jarreau ~ Alias passed away in 2006
December 25, 1937 ~ Gospel, R&B, soul singer, songwriter O'Kelly Isley born in Cincinnati, Ohio, USA ~ Oldest brother and founding member of the Isley Brothers, known for hits such as Shout, This Old Heart Of Mine (Is Weak For You), It's Your Thing, I Turned You On, Keep On Doin', Love The One You're With, Pop That Thang, That Lady (Part 1), Between The Sheets, Choosey Lover, and others ~ Isley passed away in 1986
December 25, 1935 ~ Tango singer Susana Rinaldi, full name Susana Natividad Rinaldi, born in Buenos Aires, Argentina ~ Actively recording since the late-1950s. Dubbed “La Tana” for her Italian heritage. One of the first women to sing tango standards previously recorded by male performers. Socially engaged and forced to leave the country after the 1976 coup. Married to bandoneon virtuoso Osvaldo Piro
December 25, 1932 ~ Operatic bass singer Bonaldo Gialotti born in Udine, Italy ~ Closely associated with the Metropolitan Opera, remaining with the company from 1960 through the mid-1980s. Has also guested with other major opera houses including the Lyric Opera of Chicago, the Palais Garner, the Vienna State Opera, the Teatro Real, the Zurich Opera, the Royal Opera House, and the Teatro Colón ~ Giaiotti passed away in 2018
December 25, 1932 ~ Songwriter Clive Westlake, full name Gerald Clive Westlake, born in Wattsville, UK ~ Best known for writing or co-writing a number of songs most closely associated with Dusty Springfield, including the UK top 10 hits Losing You, All I See Is You, and I Close My Eyes And Count To Ten. Also co-wrote Here I Go Again with Mort Shuman, a 1964 UK top 10 hit for the Hollies. Others who recorded his songs include Helen Shapiro, Shirley Bassey, Vera Lynn, Tom Jones (A Minute Of Your Time), Jackie Lomax, Cilla Black, Elvis Presley (It's A Matter Of Time), and Crystal Gayle ~ Westlake passed away in 2000
December 25, 1932 ~ Saxophonist Heinz Sauer born in Merseburg, Germany ~ Best known as longtime collaborator of Albert Mangelsdorff. Also worked with musicians such as Bob Degen, Ralf Hubner, Günter Lenz, Stefan Schmolck, Manfred Schoof, Christopher Dell, Bertram Ritter, Michael Wollny, and others
December 25, 1930 ~ Singer, guitarist, label founder Al Hawkes born in Providence, Rhode Island, USA ~ Bluegrass pioneer. Radio DJ. Formed Allerton & Alton with Alton Myers, the first interracial bluegrass duo. Founded Event Records in 1956, home to many high-profile artists such as Dick Curless, Hal Lone Pine, Charlie Bailey, Lenny Breau, and Curtis Johnson. The label continued until 1962 when a warehouse fire bankrupted the company ~ Hawkes passed away in 2018
December 25, 1930 ~ Hubert Brad Lewis, commonly known as country singer, guitarist, bassist, pianist, songwriter Hugh X Lewis, born in Yeaddiss, Kentucky, USA ~ As a singer best known for a number of 1960s, 1970s singles, notably What I Need Most, I'd Better Call The Law On Me and All Heaven Broke Loose. Also known as a songwriter, his songs recorded by Stonewall Jackson (BJ The DJ), Mac Wiseman and George Morgan ~ Lewis passed away in 2020
December 25, 1929 ~ R&B, doo-wop singer Bill Horton born ~ Lead singer for doo-wop outfit the Silhouettes, known best for their 1957 hit Get A Job. Originally issued as the B-side to I Am Lonely, the A-side re-release would go on to sell a million copies and be the group's only hit ~ Horton passed away in 1995
December 25, 1929 ~ Christophe Kenner, commonly known as R&B singer, songwriter Chris Kenner born in Kenner, Louisiana, USA ~ Best known for the early-1960s hits I Like It Like That and Land Of 1,000 Dances, both of which would become R&B classics covered by numerous artists. Other well known hits include Sick & Tured, Rocket To The Moon, Life's Just A Struggle and Something You Got ~ Kenner passed away in 1976
December 25, 1927 ~ Jazz, blues, pop singer Ernie Andrews born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA ~ Started as a member of the Harry James Orchestra in the late-1950s. His career declined in the 1960s and 70s but would rebound in the 1980s, recording with the Capp-Pierce Juggernaut Band, Gene Harris, Jay McShann, and the Harper Brothers. Andrews also played with Kenny Burrell, Gene Harris, Saskia Laroo, Plas Johnson, the Legacy Band, and the Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra ~ Andrews passed away in 2022
December 25, 1927 ~ Lemoine Gardner Ketcham, commonly known as singer, dancer, producer Lee Halliday, born in Sapulpa, Oklahoma, USA ~ Best known as agent and producer for Johnny Hallyday, producing almost all of the latter's songs from 1961 through the mid-1970s. Previously Ketcham formed an acrobatic dance trio with two of Hallyday's cousins. Ketcham has also produced for the likes of Les Lionceaux, Herbert Léonard, Nanette Workman, Lucky Blondo, and William Sheller ~ Ketcham passed away in 2023
December 25, 1924 ~ Florence Catherine Currier, commonly known as singer, actress Jane Morgan born in Boston, Massachusetts, USA ~ In-demand actress. As a singer has six gold albums to her name. Known for late-1950s, early-1960s songs such as Fascination, The Day The Rains Came and With Open Arms
December 25, 1923 ~ Conductor Louis Lane, full name Louis Gardner Lane, born in Eagle Pass, Texas, USA ~ Closely associated with the Cleveland Orchestra, rising from apprentice conductor under George Szell starting in 1947 to resident conductor by the early-1970s. Also worked with the Akron Symphony Orchestra, the Lake Eire Opera Theatre, the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, and the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra ~ Lane passed away in 2016
December 25, 1918 ~ Jazz double bassist, composer, arranger Eddie Safranksi born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA ~ Worked with Hal McIntyre, Miff Mole, Stan Kenton, Charlie Barnet, Benny Goodman, Marian McPartland, Tony Bennett, Sonny Berman, Barney Bigard, John Cacavas, Stan Getz, Dizzy Gillespie, Sammy Herman, Dick Hyman, JJ Johnson, Billy Maxted, Anthony Perkins, André Previn, Joe Venuti, Cootie Williams, and others ~ Safranski passed away in 1974
December 25, 1916 ~ Jazz guitarist Oscar Moore, full name Oscar Frederick Moore, born in Austin, Texas, USA ~ Leader and sideman. Best known for his association with Nat King Cole. Brother of singer Johnny Moore, with whom he also worked. Also collaborated with Leon René, Helen Humes, Barney Kessel, Tal Farlow, Leroy Vinnegar, Charles Brown, Lester Young, Buddy Rich, and others ~ Moore passed away in 1981
December 25, 1912 ~ Faye Leighton Jepson, commonly known as swing bandleader, singer Leighton Noble, born ~ Enjoyed popularity during the Swing era. Sang with the orchestras of Hal Grayson, George Hamilton, Everett Hoagland, George Olsen and perhaps most notably Orville Knapp in the mid-1930s, eventually forming his own orchestra in 1937 ~ Jepson passed away in 1994
December 25, 1908 ~ Guitarist, singer, songwriter Alton Delmore born in Elkmont, Alabama, USA ~ Formed the duo the Delmore Brothers with his brother Rabon Delmore. The duo is known for songs such as Freight Train Boogie, Brown's Ferry Blues, Donna (Lay Down My Old Guitar), Fifteen Miles From Birmingham and perhaps their best known Blues Stay Away From Me. Artists who covered their songs include Johnny Burnette, Gene Vincent, the Louvin Brothers, Les Paul, Doc Watson, and the Everly Brothers ~ Delmore passed away in 1964
December 25, 1907 ~ Bandleader Cab Calloway, full name Cabel Calloway III, born in Rochester, New York, USA ~ Master of scat singing. Led one the most popular big bands of the 1930s and 1940s. Employed later famed sidemen such as Dizzy Gillespie, Doc Cheatham, Danny Barker, Ben Webster, Chu Berry, and Milt Hinton. Best known for Minnie The Moocher. Calloway remained popular until his death in the 1990s, and proved to be an influence on singers such as Michael Jackson and a wide array of hip-hop artists ~ Calloway passed away 1994
December 25, 1903 ~ Gwin Stanley Foster, commonly known as old-time, country harmonica player, guitarist Gwen Foster, born in Caldwell, North Carolina, USA ~ Co-founded the Carolina Tar Heels with banjoist Dock Walsh. Has also worked with the Blue Ridge Mountain Entertainers. ~ Foster passed away in 1954
December 25, 1900 ~ Albert Joseph Feinberg, commonly known as orchestra, big band bandleader, songwriter Al Trace, born in Chicago, Illinois, USA ~ Popular Big band era bandleader. Has worked with Toni Arden, Bob Vincent, the Hoosier Hot Shots, and the Korn Kobblers. Has composed over 300 songs, oft in collaboration with his brother Ben Trace, Al Hoffman, Bob Merrill or Abner Silver. Well known songs written or co-written by Trace include Eileen Barton's If I Knew You Were Comin' I'd've Baked A Cake and You Call Everybody Darlin', the latter in Trace's version a No.1 hit in 1948 and later successfuly covered by the Andrews Sisters, Smiley Wilson and by Art Lund ~ Feinberg passed away in 1993
December 25, 1893 ~ Bella Becker, commonly known as singer, actress, radio host Belle Baker, born in New York, New York, 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 passed away in 1957
December 25, 1892 ~ Nathan Robinson, commonly known as jazz trombonist Jim Robinson, born in Plaquemines Parish, Louisiana, USA ~ Best known for his signature song Ice Cream. Mentor to Frank Demond and to Big Bill Bissonnette. Worked with Sam Morgan, Bunk Johnson, and George Lewis ~ Robinson passed away in 1976
December 25, 1889 ~ Natan Schuldkraut, commonly known as composer, conductor, clarinetist, pianist Nathaniel Shilkret, born in New York, New York, USA ~ Child prodigy, performing professionally as clarinet soloist with the New York Boys Orchestra from ages 7 to 13. Would go on to become an in-demand conductor for records, radio, film, stage and classical orchestras. Has worked with the Dorsey Brothers, Benny Goodman, Lionel Hampton, Glenn Miller, Artie Shaw, Joe Lipman, the New York Symphony Orchestra, the Metropolitan Opera, the Russian Symphony Orchestra, Victor Herbert, Arnold Volpe, Rose Bampton, Lucrezia Bori, Mary Garden, James Melton, Gladys Swarthout, and Lawrence Tibbett. As a composer best remembered for co-writing The Lonesome Road, first sung by co-author Gene Austin, popularized by Jules Bledsoe in the 1929 Show Boat film and covered by over 200 artists including Louis Armstrong, the Delmore Brothers, Frank Sinatra, Sam Cooke, and Earl Grant ~ Shilkret passed away in 1982