February 26, 2008 ~ George Allen Miles Jr, commonly known as drummer Buddy Miles, passed away in Austin, Texas, USA ~ Best known for his association with Jimi Hendrix, playing drums on the tracks Rainy Day Dream Away and Still Raining Still Dreaming of Electric Ladyland, the guitarist's third and final studio album, and on all tracks of Band Of Gypsies, recorded live at Fillmore East, New York, on New Years Day 1970. Miles had previously played with the somewhat overlooked late-1960s rock outfit the Electric Flag, including on their acclaimed A Long Time Comin' album released in 1968. Miles has also formed and fronted the Buddy Miles Express and the Buddy Miles Band, and appeared on albums by the likes of Buffalo Springfield, the Monkees, Steve Cropper, Muddy Waters, John McLaughlin (Devotion), Three Man Army, Gregg Allman (Laid Back), Betty Davis (They Say I'm Different), Funkadelic, Nils Lofgren, Eddie Hazel, and Santana (Viva Santana) ~ Miles was born in 1947
February 26, 2004 ~ Jazz drummer Jack Sperling passed away ~ Worked with Bunny Berigan, Henry Mancini, Glenn Miller, Tex Beneke, Les Brown, Bob Crosby, Rosemary Clooney, Bobby Darin, Sammy Davis Jr, Doris Day, Ella Fitzgerald, the Four Freshmen, Lena Horne, Peggy Lee, Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra, Mel Tormé, Scatman Crothers, Pete Fountain, Abe Most, Dinah Washington, Teresa Brewer, Harry Belafonte, Chet Atkins, Wynona Carr, James Brown, Carmen McRae, Bob Florence, John Sheridan, Don Fagerquist, and others ~ Sperling was born in 1922
February 26, 2004 ~ Jazz saxophonist Jimmy Coe passed away in Indianapolis, Indiana, USA ~ Active since the late-1930s. Has worked with Erroll Groundhog Grandy, Buddy Bryat, Jay McShann, Charlie Parker, Al Hibbler, Tiny Bradshaw, Aretha Franklin, Roy Hamilton, Gladys Knight & the Pips, Slide Hampton, David Baker, Freddie Hubbard, Carl Perkins, Larry Ridley, Leroy Vinnegar, and others ~ Coe was born in 1921
February 26, 1997 ~ Ben Wingate, commonly known as songwriter, lyricist Ben Raleigh, passed away in Hollywood, California, USA ~ Known for co-writing songs such as Laughing On The Outside (Dinah Shore, Ella Fitzgerald, Aretha Franklin), Three Handed Woman (Tex Ritter, Louis Prima), Wonderful Wonderful (Johnny Mathis, Bobby Rydell, the Supremes), Tell Laura I Love Her (Ray Peterson, Don Lee Wilson, Sha Na Na), Blue Winter (Connie Francis, Willeke Alberti), Love Is A Hurtin' Thing (Lou Rawls, Big Maybelle, the Temptations), and Midnight Mood (Joe Zawinul, Wes Montgomery, Michael Brecker) ~ Wingate was born in 1913
February 26, 1991 ~ Jahméne Aaron Douglas, mononymously known as soul, gospel singer Jahméne, born in Birmingham, UK ~ Runner-up in the 9th series of The X-Factor in 2012, losing out to James Arthur. Would release his Love Never Fails debut album the following year, featuring the Nicole Scherzinger-duet The Greatest Love Of All and Stevie Wonder on harmonica on the track Give Us This Day
February 26, 1991 ~ Bulee Gaillard, commonly known as jazz singer, pianist, guitarist, vibraphonist, saxophonist, songwriter Slim Gaillard passed away in London, UK ~ First gained attention in the 1930s as half of Slim & Slam, the other half being Slam Stewart, known for songs such as Flat Foot Floogie With A Floy Floy and Cement Mixer Put-ti Put-ti. Would go on to work with artists such as Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie, Dodo Marmarosa, and others ~ Gaillard was born in 1911
February 26, 1990 ~ Rock band Aerosmith release their What It Takes single ~ Written by Steven Tyler, Joe Perry, and regular collaborator Desmond Child. The power ballad was released as the third single off their 1989 Pump album, and would reach top 10 Billboard Hot 100. The lyrics in the song reference two other Aerosmith songs, FINE and Heart's Done Time, the latter featured on Permanent Vacation, the band's previous album. Tyler would later comment: “I'll put some ballads on an album, if that's what it takes so that some young kid can get to hear a Young Lust or FINE.”
February 26, 1990 ~ R&B singer Cornell Gunter passed away in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA ~ Original member of the Platters, leaving the band in 1953 to join the Flairs. Has also toured with Dinah Washington, was a member of the Coasters, and recorded a handful of solo singles in the late-1950s and early-1960s ~ Gunter was born in 1938
February 26, 1989 ~ Trumpeter Reunald Jones Sr passed away ~ Father of trumpeter Reunald Jones Jr. Perhaps best known for his association with Count Basie, playing with the Count Basie Orchestra from 1952 through 1957. Has also worked with the Jones Boys, Speed Webb, Charlie Johnson, the Savoy Bearcats, Fess Williams, Chick Webb, Sam Wooding, Claude Hopkins, Willie Bryant, Teddy Hill, Don Redman, Erskine Hawkins, Duke Ellington, Jimmie Lunceford, Lucky Millinder, Sy Oliver, George Shearing, Nat King Cole, and others ~ Jones was born in 1910
February 26, 1989 ~ Trumpeter Roy Eldridge, full name David Roy Eldridge, passed away in ValleY Stream, New York, USA ~ Noted for his sophisticated use of harmony and his virtuosic solos. Regarded as one of the most influential musicians of the swing era. Has worked with Gene Krupa, Benny Carter, Teddy Wilson, Ike Quebec, Cecil Payne, Wilbur de Paris, Helen Ward, Zoot Sims, Dizzy Gillespie, Oscar Peterson, Jo Jones, Big Joe Turner, Harry Sweets Edison, Count Basie, Coleman Hawkins, Johnny Hodges, Illinois Jacquet, Buddy Tate, Lester Young, and Ben Webster ~ Eldridge was born in 1911
February 26, 1986 ~ Rock, pop-rock, indie rock, folk rock, punk rock singer, songwriter Juliet Simms, full name Juliet Nicole Simms, born in San Francisco, California, USA ~ Fronted pop punk outfit the Automatic Loveletter, which also included her brother drummer Tommy Simms, known best for their 2010 Truth Or Dare album. As a solo artist known for reaching 2nd place in the 2012 season of The Voice aired on NBC. Has since released a number of EPs and singles. Rebranded herself, choosing the stage name Lilith Czar in 2021. Married the Black Veil Brides frontman Andy Biersack in 2016
February 26, 1986 ~ Jazz violinist Scott Tixier born in Montreuil, France ~ Has worked with Stevie Wonder, Elton John, Roger Waters, Kenny Barron, John Legend, Chris Potter, Christina Aguilera, Common, Anthony Braxton, Joss Stone, Gladys Knight, Natalie Cole, Wayne Brady, Chris Walden, Greg Phillinganes, Ray Chew, the Isley Brothers, Cory Smythe, Maceo Parker, Janet Cardiff, Siegfried Kessler, Tony Middleton, Lonnie Plaxico, Myron Walden, Clifford Adams, Helen Sung, Brice Wassey, Gerald Cleaver, Lew Soloff, Yvonnick Prene, Tigran Hamasyan, James Weldman, Marcus McLauren, Giada Valenti, Tommy Simms, Hans Zimmer, Keiichi Murata, Darius Scheider, Shareef Clayton, Keyon Harrold, Brian Tyler, and others
February 26, 1984 ~ Pop-rock, folk singer, songwriter Natalia Lafourcade, full name Maria Natalia Lafourcade Silva, born in Mexico City, Mexico ~ Daughter of harpsichordist, organist, pianist Gaston Lafourcade and pianist Maria del Carmen Silva Contreras. Member of short-lived pop group Twist during the late-1990s. Released her eponymous Natalia Lafourcade debut album in 2002 and has gone on to become oe of the most successful singer in Latin America, categorized as a lyric soprano. Well known songs include En El 2000, Hasta La Raiz, Tu Si Sabees Quererme, Danza De Gardenias, and En Cantos
February 26, 1982 ~ Guitarist Gábor Szabó, full name Gábor István Szabó, passed away in Budapest, Hungary ~ Leader and sideman. Drew from jazz, pop, rock and tradional Hungarian folk. Wrote and first recorded Gypsy Queen, which was notably covered by Santana. Worked with Chico Hamilton, Gary McFarland, Ron Carter, Paul Desmond, Coke Escovedo, Charles Lloyd, and others ~ Szabó was born in 1936
February 26, 1982 ~ Indie pop, baroque pop singer, songwriter Nate Ruess born in Iowa City, Iowa, USA ~ Member of Format, enjoying local success from 2000 forward, known for the albums Interventions & Lullabies and Dog Problems. Dropped by their label the band would disband in 2008. Subsequently formed .fun, propelling Ruess to fame on the strength of the band's Some Nights sophomore album released in 2012, which would sell three million copies and contain the Billboard Hot 100 top 10 hits We Are Young featuring Janelle Monáe and Some Nights
February 26, 1981 ~ Art rock, experimental, folk, ambient singer, guitarist, keyboardist, violinist Daniel Patrick Quinn born in Ipswich, UK ~ Over half a dozen albums as a solo artist, starting in the early-2000s. Founded the short-lived Suilven Recordings label, releasing his own works and that of ambient composers such as DAC Crowell and Kurt Doles. Founded One More Grain, best known for their critically acclaimed Isle Of Grain sophomore album released in 2008. Also notably worked with Gyratory System
February 26, 1981 ~ Conductor Howard Hanson, full name Howard Harold Hanson, passed away in Rochester, New York, USA ~ Composed for opera, orchestral and choral works and chamber music. Best known as a director of Eastman School Of Music for four decades. As a composer known for California Forest Play, Before The Dawn and the Pullitzer Prize-winning Symphony No.4 ~ Hanson was born in 1896
February 26, 1981 ~ Singer, actress Sharon van Etten, full name Sharon Katharine van Ette, born in Belleville, New Jersey, USA ~ Debuted with the album Because I Was In Love in 2009. Has worked with Dave Hartley, Andy Laplant, Cat Martino, Meg Baird, Brian Christinzio, Bryan Devendorf, Bryce Dessner, Julianna Barwick, Peter Silberman, Logan Coals, Ben Lanz, Zach Condon, Jenn Wasner, Heather Woods Broderick, Little Isidor, Jonathan Meiburg, Jana Hunter, and others
February 26, 1978 ~ Swing saxophonist, clarinetist, bandleader Alix Combelle passed away in Mantes la Jolie, France ~ Son of classical saxophonist François Combelle. Started on drums before taking up wind instruments. Though somewhat overlooked, especially in comparison to contemporaries such as Django Reinhardt and Stéphane Grappelli, Combelle nevertheless was a vital figure in the development of European jazz through the 1940s. Combelle has accompanied French musicians such as Guy Paquinet, Philippe Brun, André Ekyan, Jean Sablon, and Charles Trenet, as well as visiting Americans such as Bill Coleman, Buck Clayton, Lionel Hampton, and Jonah Jones. When visiting America, Tommy Dorsey was so impressed with Combelle he offered him a position, yet he opted to return to his native France instead. Combelle continued to lead a series of bands through World War II, camouflaging the titles of jazz standards to evade a ban by the Nazis, who deemed the music inappropriate. Combelle performed throughout the 1950s, before opening a jazz nightclub in a Paris suburb ~ Combelle was born in 1912
February 26, 1977 ~ Booker T Washington White, commonly known as blues guitarist, singer, songwriter Bukka White, passed away in Memphis, Tennessee, USA ~ Known for songs such as Shake 'Em On Down, Po' Boy, Parchman Farm Blues and Fixin' To Die. Had his songs covered by Jeff Buckley, Bob Dylan, and Kenny Wayne Shepherd. The Led Zeppelin songs Hats Off To Roy Harper and Custard Pie are both based on White's Shake 'Em On Down ~ White was born in 1906
February 26, 1973 ~ Twin brothers guitarist Anders Björler and bassist Jonas Fredrik Björler born in Sweden ~ Both brothers worked together in metal outfits the Haunted and At The Gates. Anders also worked with Liers In Wait, Jonas also worked with Demolition, Infestation and with Terror
February 26, 1973 ~ André Tanneberger, commonly known as trance DJ, producer ATB, born in Freiburg, West Germany ~ Actively recording since 1990s. First gained attention as a member of early, mid-1990s dance music group Sequential One, enjoying popularity in his native Germany and Europe with songs such as Let Me Hear You, Dance and Angles. After the band disbanded in the late-1990s ventured into a solo career as producer, DJ, remixer and has recorded consistently with well over half a dozen albums to his name. Perhaps best known for his 1998 single 9PM (Till I Come) which would reach top of the UK charts
February 26, 1973 ~ Singer Julio Iglesias Jr, full name Julio José Iglesias Preysler Jr, born in Madrid, Spain ~ Son of renowned singer Julio Iglesias, older brother of singer Enrique Iglesias. Turned down offers for the soap opera All My Children and a leading role in a Broadway production of Grease to focus on his own music career. Debuted in 1999 with the album Under My Eyes which would fail to achieve chart success in America but did land him dates performing One More Chance at the 1999 Miss Universe beauty contest and opening slots on Cher's tour. Would first gain serious attention as a singer winning the CMT reality show Gone Country in 2008, featuring musicians from other genres going country. Would join Latin Lovers in 2014
February 26, 1972 ~ Alternative rock, indie rock drummer Jonny Quinn, full name Jonathan Graham Quinn, born in Bangor, Northern Ireland ~ Best known as drummer for alternative rock band Snow Patrol, rising to prominence in the mid-2000s scoring UK top 10 hits with Run, You're All I Have and Chasing Cars, the latter also reaching top 10 on the American Billboard Hot 100. Has previously played with the Mighty Fall, the New Brontes and Disraeli Gears
February 26, 1972 ~ Producer, songwriter Rico Wade, full name Rico Renard Wade, born in Atlanta, Georgia, USA ~ Helped define the Atlanta sound. Co-founding member of pioneering production and songwriting team Organized Noize, with whom he worked on hit songs such as Waterfalls by TLC, Don't Let Go (Love) by En Vogue, and Saturday (Oooh Ooooh) by Ludacris, the former two both reaching top 10 Billboard Hot 100. The production team is especially known for their work with fellow Atlanta natives OutKast, producing some of their best known including the acclaimed albums Aquemini and Stankonia ~ Wade passed away in 2024
February 26, 1971 ~ Erica Abi Wright, commonly known as singer, songwriter Erykah Badu, born in Dallas, Texas, USA ~ Opened for d'Angelo at a 1994 Fort Worth show, which drew attention of label executive Kedar Massenburg, who immediately signed her. Debuted with the Baduizm album in 1997, spawning the singles On & On, Next Lifetime, and Otherside Of The Game. Also known for songs such as Bag Lady and Love Of My Life (An Ode To Hip-Hop), the latter featuring Common. Member of the Soulquarians. Also collaborated with Busta Rhymes, the Roots, Macy Gray, Violator, A Tribe Called Quest, Zap Mama, Sérgio Mendes, will.i.am, the Wu-Tang Clan, Flying Lotus, Janelle Monáe, and others
February 26, 1971 ~ Fernand Joseph Désiré Contandin, commonly known as actor, singer Fernandel, passed away in Paris, France ~ First gained attention as comedian in French vaudeville, operettas and revues. Took his stage name from his mother-in-law's pet name for him, “Fernand d'elle” (Fernand of her). Would go on to become one of of France's top comedians starring in numerous films, including Italian and American films ~ Contandin was born in 1903
February 26, 1971 ~ Karl Martin Sandberg, commonly known as producer, songwriter Max Martin, born in Stockholm, Sweden ~ Rose to fame in the late-1990s as producer, songwriter on songs such as Britney Spears' Baby One More Time, the Backstreet Boys' I Want It That Way and NSYNC's It's Gonna Be Me. Has written or co-written some two dozen Billboard No.1 hits, totalling sales of over 130 million. Well known songs include Maroon 5's One More Night, Taylor Swift's Shake It Off and Blank Space, the Weeknd's Blinding Lights. Other artists who recorded songs produced, co-produced, written or co-written by Martin include P!nk, Usher, Avril Lavigne, Jessie J, Katy Perry, Christina Aguilera, Ariana Grande, Cyndi Lauper, and Adam Lambert
February 26, 1969 ~ Blues singer, pianist, songwriter Bernice Edwards passed away in Houston, Texas, USA ~ Known for a number of mid-1920s recordings including Moaning Blues, Mean Man Blues, Hard Hustling Blues, Butcher Shop Blues. Unlike many of her female contemporaries Edwards penned or co-penned a vast amount of her songs ~ Edwards was born ca.1907
February 26, 1969 ~ Singer, songwriter, producer Chris Wilis, full name Christopher Willis, born in Dayton, Ohio, USA ~ Initially a gospel singer but best known for his collaborations with house DJ, producer David Guetta as lead vocalist on songs such as Just A Little More Love, Love Don't Let Me Go, Love Is Gone, Tomorrow Can Wait, Everytime We Touch, and Gettin' Over You
February 26, 1967 ~ Upright bassist, bass guitarist Audun Skorgen born in Ålesund, Norway ~ Worked with the Velvet Lounge Orchestra, Frode Grønmyr, and Marita Røstad
February 26, 1967 ~ Jazz pianist Bill Clifton passed away at sea aboard the SS Argentina ~ An in-demand accompanist of the swing era, and considered an early and important influence on jazz pianist Bill Evans. Clifton decided to become a professional musician after hearing the music of Fletcher Henderson and Duke Ellington. Noted for his Piano Moods, released in 1950 as one of the first long-playing records, yet best known as a sideman to the likes of Paul Whiteman, Benny Goodman, Woody Herman, Bud Freeman, and Abe Lyman. Clifton also accompanied some of the era's greatest singers including Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra, Ukulele Ike, and Ilene Woods ~ Clifton was born in 1916
February 26, 1967 ~ Walter Gabriel Pichon, commonly known as jazz pianist, singer, bandleader, arranger, songwriter Fats Pichon, passed away in Chicago, Illinois, USA ~ Active since his teens. Worked the river boats, big band and New Orleans dance halls. Worked with Duskey Stevedores, the Eleven Aces, Luis Russell and with a then-unknown Dave Bartholomew as early as the 1930s ~ Pichon was born in 1906
February 26, 1966 ~ Singer, songwriter, producer Ebbot Lundberg born in Vasterås, Sweden ~ Best known as lead singer of the Soundtrack Of Our Lives from 1995 through 2012, co-founded with Bjorn Olsson and Ian Person. Has also recorded as a solo artist, starting with the album There's Only One Of Us released in 2012, and collaborated with Jane Birkin, Turbonegro, Nina Persson, the Cardigans, the Teddybears, Olle Ljungström, and others
February 26, 1965 ~ R&B singer Marvin Gaye releases his I'll Be Doggone single ~ Written by Smokey Robinson, Warren Pete Moore, and Marvin Tarplin, with Robinson also serving as producer. Released as the lead single off Gaye's Moods Of Marvin Gaye album, the single would become his first Billboard R&B charttopper, his third Billboard Hot 100 top 10 hit, and his first million-seller. Background vocals were provided by the Miracles and the Andantes. The song would be covered several times, including by Paul Revere & the Raiders, Albert King, and Solomon Burke
February 26, 1965 ~ British rockers the Rolling Stones release their The Last Time single in the UK ~ Recorded at RCA Studios, Hollywood, California. Produced by Andrew Loog Oldham with some assistence by Phil Spector. Although credited to Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, officially making it the first original song to be released as an A-side, the song's chorus is identical to This May Be The Last Time. Richards would later comment on the origins of the song: “We came up with The Last Time, which was basically re-adapting a traditional gospel song that had been sung by the Staple Singers, but luckily the song itself goes back into the mists of time”
February 26, 1963 ~ Bassist, guitarist, cellist, keyboardist, percussionist, singer Josephine Wiggs, full name Miranda Cordelia Susan Josephine Wiggs, born in Letchworth, UK ~ Best known as member of alternative rock bands the Breeders and Perfect Disaster. Also active with several side-projects including Honey Tongue, the Josephine Wiggs Experience and Dusty Trails
February 26, 1963 ~ Ignacio Cano André, commonly known as guitarist, arranger, songwriter Nacho Cano, born in Madrid, Spain ~ Member of Mecano, one of the all time best selling Spanish bands with over 25 million records sold. The band is known for songs such as La Fuerza Del Destino, Hijo De La Luna, Cruz De Navajes, Une Femme Avec Une Femme and El 7 De Septiembre
February 26, 1962 ~ Husband and wife duo Carl Butler & Pearl record Don't Let Me Cross Over ~ Written by Penny Jay. Released later the same year paired with Wonder Drug on the B-side. Would stand as the longest-running No.1 single for a debut single on Billboard Country chart until matched in 2013 by Cruise by Florida Georgia Line
February 26, 1958 ~ Pop, soul singer, producer Humphrey Campbell born in Moengo, Suriname ~ Represented the Netherlands at the 1992 Eurovision Songfestival with the song Wijs Me De Weg, reaching 9th place. One of the backup singers was Ruth Jacott who would represent the Netherlands the next year, with Campbell as backup singer. Subsequently the two would form a longtime romantic relationship. Campbell has also served as producer, notably working with Jacott, Timeless, and Fluitsma & Van Tijn, and formed the close harmony sibling outfit CC Campbell with his brothers Charles Campbell and Carlo Campbell ~ Campbell passed away in 2024
February 26, 1958 ~ Richard Alan Hammer, commonly known as jazz pianist Tardo Hammer, born in New York, New York, USA ~ Worked with Warne Marsh, Charlie Rouse, Junior Cook, Bill Hardman, Johnny Griffin, Lionel Hampton, Lou Donaldson, Art Farmer, Clifford Jordan, the Bopera House, John Marshall, Vernel Fournier, George Coleman, Gary Bartz, C-Sharpe, Al Cohn, Harold Ashby, Annie Ross, David Allyn, Teri Thornton, Abbey Lincoln, Earl Coleman, Marilyn Moore, and others
February 26, 1953 ~ Michael Bolotin, commonly known as singer Michael Bolton, born in New Haven, Connecticut, USA ~ Originally a hard rock, heavy metal singer, both as a solo artist and as frontman of Blackjack. Would rise to stardom in the 1980s with a string of soft rock, pop rock ballads. Has sold over 75 million records. Known for songs such as That's What Love Is All About, Soul Provider and perhaps his best known How Am I Supposed To Live Without You, the latter topping the Billboard Hot 100 in 1989 and reaching top 10 across the globe including the UK and the Netherlands
February 26, 1952 ~ Jazz, classical, rock bassist John Giblin born ~ In-demand session bassist active from the mid-1970s forward. Has appeared on albums by Gonzalez, Metro, Peter Gabriel, Gary Boyle (Electric Glide), Steve Harley, Duncan Browne (The Wild Places), Colin Blunstone, Brand X, the Simple Minds, Kate Bush (Never For Ever), Jon Anderson, Phil Collins (Face Value), Chris De Burgh, Judie Tzuke, Eros Ramazzotti, Tanita Tikaram, and Joshua Kadison ~ Giblin passed away in 2023
February 26, 1950 ~ Songwriter Billy Steinberg, full name William Endfield Steinberg, born ~ Rose to fame in the 1980s as songwriting partner of Tom Kelly. The pair has penned or co-penned hits such as Like A Virgin for Madonna, True Colors for Cyndi Lauper, Eternal Flame for the Bangles, and So Emotional for Whitney Houston, all of which reached No.1 Billboard Hot 100. Others who recorded songs written or co-written by Steinberg include Pat Benatar, France Joli, Roy Orbison (I Drove All Night), REO Speedwagon, Chaka Khan, Exposé, Divinyls (I Touch Myself), Bette Midler, the Pretenders (I'll Stand By You), the Corrs, Ace Of Base, Melanie C, and Demi Lovato
February 26, 1950 ~ Jonathan Leonard Friga, commonly known as pop rock, hard rock, progressive rock, smooth jazz singer, keyboardist, guitarist, songwriter Jonathan Cain born in Chicago, Illinois, USA ~ Best known as keyboardist of Journey, joining the band in 1980 as replacement for Gregg Rolie. Cain stayed with the band through the late-1980s and rejoined in the mid-1990s. Present on some of the band's best known including the Billboard Hot 100 top 10 hits Don't Stop Believin', Open Arms, Only The Young and Be Good To Yourself. Wrote the band's ballad Faithfully, a Billboard Hot 100 top 20 hit off their 1982 Frontiers album. Previously a member of the Babys, present on the albums Union Jacks and On The Edge. Wrote the Jimmy Barnes-signature song Working Class Man, released in 1985. Has also recorded as a solo artist, moving into Christian music by the mid-2010s
February 26, 1950 ~ Kenneth Keshavian Masiak, commonly known as jazz, R&B clarinetist, saxophonist, poet Kenny Millions, born in Detroit, Michigan, USA ~ Worked with Charles Moffett, Ray Anderson, David Murray, Garrett List, Rhys Chatham, Laurie Anderson, John Cage, Hannibal Lokumbe, Abbey Rader, Paul Bley, Jack DeJohnette, Sunny Murray, Rashied Ali, Curtis Fuller, Otomo Yoshihide, Misha Mengelberg, Han Bennink, Peter Brötzmann, Derek Bailey, Dr John, Bobby Keys, Larry Coryell, Chet Baker, Kool Keith, and others
February 26, 1949 ~ Soprano singer Emma Kirkby, full name Carolyn emma Kirkby, born in Camberley, UK ~ Did not originally pursue a career in music. Member of the student choir the Schola Cantorim Of Oxford while in college. After teaching for a number of years Kirkby married conductor Andrew Parrott, who had also conducted her student choir, and became a professional singer with his the Taverner Choir founded in the early-1970s. Kirkby would go on to become a renowned soloist and work with prominent early music performers such as Anthony Rooley, the Consort Of Musicke, the Gothic Voices, Christopher Hogwood, and others. In total Kirkby appeared on over 100 recordings, including madrigals of the Italian and English Renaissance, and cantates and oratorios of the Baroque era
February 26, 1948 ~ Jazz bassist Mike Richmond born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA ~ Over a dozen albums as a leader. In-demand sideman, active since the early-1970s backing musicians such as Chico Hamilton, Arnie Lawrence, Stan Getz, Jack DeJohnette, Horace Silver, Joe Henderson, Lee Konitz, Hubert Laws, Franco Ambrosetti, Art Farmer, George Gruntz, and others. Noted for leading the Mingus Dynasty from 1980 through 1985, replacing Charles Mingus
February 26, 1947 ~ Jazz accordionist, composer Guy Klucevsek born in New York, New York, USA ~ One of the few accordionists in jazz. Leader and sideman. Has worked with the Accordion Tribe, Dave Douglas, John Zorn, Bill Frisell, Laurie Anderson, Anthony Coleman, Lukas Foss, Robin Holcomb, Jerome Kitzke, Natalie Merchant (Motherland), Bobby Previte, Tom Waits, Pauline Oliveros, and others
February 26, 1947 ~ Blues harpist, singer, songwriter Paul Oscher born ~ Perhaps best known for his association with Muddy Waters, backing Waters during the late-1960s and early 1970 including on the acclaimed 1971 Live At Mr Kelly's album. Other notable associations include Louisiana Red, Big Bill Morganfield, Hubert Sumlin, Mos Def, and Keb' Mo ~ Oscher passed away in 2021
February 26, 1946 ~ Singer, keyboardist Antonio Cripezzi born ~ Member of I Camaleonti, known for hits such as Sha-la-la-la-lee, Applausi, Lo Per Lei, and Lora Deli' Amore ~ Cripezzi passed away in 2022
February 26, 1946 ~ Laiko, entekhno singer Manolis Mitsias born in Doumpia, Greece ~ Premier singer in entekhno and laiko, actively recording since the late-1960s. Has worked with most well known Greek composers including Mikis Theodorakis, Vassilis Tsitsanis, Thanos Mikroutsikos, and Yannis Markopoulos. Well known songs include Afta Ta Heria, Ah Maria, O Trellos, and Fonazoun Oi Geitonoi
February 26, 1944 ~ Robert Landis Frank, commonly known as singer, guitarist, songwriter Bob Frank born in Memphis, Tennessee, USA ~ Cult singer, songwriter debuted with his critically acclaimed 1972 eponymous album, Bob Frank. Has worked extensively with John Murry and shared stages with Tim Buckley, Townes Van Zandt, Lightnin' Hopkins, Jimmy Driftwood, and Gus Cannon. Staff songwriter for Tree Publishing. Dubbed “the greatest songwriter you never heard” by noted producer, pianist, singer Jim Dickinson. Also had his songs recorded by Chris LeDoux, and Gary Momahan ~ Frank passed away in 2019
February 26, 1943 ~ Rock, country rock, country guitarist, singer Paul Cotton, full name Norman Paul Cotton, born in Fort Rucker, Alabama, USA ~ Member of the Illinois Speed Press. Perhaps best known as member of country-rock outfit Poco, joining the band in 1970 as replacement for Jim Messina. Penned several of the band's best known including Barbados, Indian Summer, Ride The Country, Bad Weather and Heart Of The Night, the latter a Billboard Hot 100 top 20 hit of the 1979 Legend album ~ Cotton passed away in 2021
February 26, 1942 ~ Jazz saxophonist, composer Lennart Åberg born in Helsingborg, Sweden ~ Founded jazz fusion group Rena Rama in 1972. Perhaps best known for his association with George Russell backing Russell in the 1980s, notably on the 1983 The Essence Of George Russell album alongside Jon Christensen, Arild Andersen and Jan Garbarek. Has also recorded as a solo artist and taught jazz history at the Royal College Of Music, Stockholm ~ Åberg passed away in 2021
February 26, 1939 ~ Saxophonist Trevor Watts born in York, UK ~ Active since the mid-1960s. Though initially strongly identified with avant-garde jazz, Watts is equally at home in straight jazz, rock, and blues contexts. As a leader especially acclaimed for the 1988 With One Voice album, recorded with his Trevor Watts Moiré Music ensemble. Co-founded the Spontaneous Music Ensemble with drummer John Stevens in 1965, one of the premier ensembles in British free improvisation. Founded Amalgam in 1967. Also closely associated with the London Jazz Composers Orchestra. Other notable collaborations include Steve Lacy, Keith Tippett, Elton Dean, Derek Bailey, Enjambre Acustico Urukungulo, and Bobby Bradford
February 26, 1938 ~ Singer, songwriter, producer Ed Cobb born ~ Member of the Four Preps from 1956 to 1966. Post-Preps Cobb has focused mainly on producing and as such has worked with artists such as the Standells, the Lettermen, the Chocolate Watch Band, the Piltdown Men, Fleetwood Mac, Steely Dan, Pink Floyd. Cobb is also noted for writing songs for the Standells (Dirty Water), Brenda Holloway (Every Little Bit Hurts) and Gloria Jones (Tainted Love) ~ Cobb passed away in 1999
February 26, 1938 ~ Country singer, songwriter Jan Crutchfield born in Paducah, Kentucky, USA ~ Best known for penning The Statue Of A Fool, first recorded and popularized by Jack Greene in 1969 and covered by numerous artists including Brian Collins and Ricky Van Shelton. Other songs written or co-written by Crutchfield include Tear Time (Wilma Burgess), Another Lonely Night (Jean Shepard), Does My Ring Hurt Your Finger (Charley Pride), and One More Time (Jerry Lee Lewis) ~ Crutchfield passed away in 2012
February 26, 1932 ~ Country, rock & roll, outlaw country singer, guitarist, songwriter Johnny Cash born in Kingsland, Arkansas, USA ~ Iconic country singer with a career spanning well over four decades and a reach far beyond country audiences, incorporating elements from a wide array of genres including rockabilly, gospel, blues, folk and gospel. Has recorded over 50 albums since the mid-1950s with record sales north of 90 million, making him one of the all-time best-selling artists. Known for his bass-baritone voice and themes of sorrow, moral tribulation and redemption and signature black attire. Signature songs include I Walk The Line, I Got Stripes, Ring Of Fire and A Boy Named Sue. Frequent collaborator of Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson and Kris Kristofferson including in the country supergroup the Highwaymen. Rejuvenated his career in the 1990s with a string of critically acclaimed albums, the American Recordings-series, finding new audiences outside country ~ Cash passed away in 2003
February 26, 1930 ~ Drummer Doug Sandom born in Greenford, UK ~ The first drummer of the Who. At the time Sandom was in his thirties while the other members were in their late teens. Sandom was fired after an audition at Fontana Records where the label's producer Chris Parmeinter expressed a dislike for Sandom's drumming. Within a month drummer Keith Moon took over. Sandom does not appear on any Who recordings ~ Sandom passed away in 2019
February 26, 1928 ~ Pianist, singer Fats Domino born in New Orleans, Louisiana, USA ~ Rock & roll pioneer. Best-selling African-American artist of the 1950s. Most popular singer of New Orleans R&B. Known for songs such as The Fat Man, I'm Walking, Ain't That A Shame, and Blueberry Hill. Closely associated with producer Dave Bartholomew. Employed sidemen such as Herbert Hardesty, Alvin Tyler, Billy Diamond, Frank Fields, Earl Palmer, Smokey Johnson, Reggie Houston, Lee Allen, and others ~ Domino passed away in 2017
February 26, 1926 ~ Pianist Chris Anderson born in Chicago, Illinois, USA ~ Influenced Herbie Hancock. Leader and sideman. Active since the mid-1940s. Best known for his 1960 My Romance album. Worked with Von Freeman, Charlie Parker, Dinah Washington, Bill Lee, Art Taylor, Walter Perkins, Philly Joe Jones, Frank Gant, Charlie Haden, Clifford Jordan, Sun Ra, Frank Strozier, and others ~ Anderson passed away in 2008
February 26, 1925 ~ Saxophonist, bandleader, producer Dave Pell born in Brooklyn, New York, USA ~ Played in the big bands of Tony Pastor, Bob Astor, Bobby Sherwood, and Les Brown. Moved on to leading his own ensembles in the early-1950s, employing sidemen such as Pepper Adams, Benny Carter, Mel Lewis, Red Mitchell, Marty Paich, and Art Pepper, Pell continued to work as a sideman for Shorty Rogers, Pete Rugolo, Benny Goodman, and Gene Krupa. He also produced for the Tops, Uni, and Librty labels throughout the 1960s, most notably producing Gary Lewis & the Playboys as well as the T-Bones (No Matter What Shape Your Stomach's In) ~ Pell passed away in 2017
February 26, 1916 ~ John Herbert Gleaon, commonly known as actor, comedian, singer Jackie Gleason, born in Brooklyn, New York, USA ~ Best known as actor and comedian, notably in The Honeymooners and his own The Jackie Gleason Show. Also a singer known for a string of million-seller “mood music” albums, starting with Music For Lovers Only released in 1957 ~ Gleason passed away in 1987
February 26, 1908 ~ Bolero, opera tenor Nestor Mesta Cháyres born in Ciudad Lerdo, Mexico ~ Dubbed “El Gitano de Mexico” and especially known as an interpreter of Agustín Lara and Maria Grever. Worked with the Symphony Orchestra Of Mexico, the Philadelphia Orchestra, Alfredo Antonini, John Serry Sr, and the Montreal Philharmonic Orchestra ~ Cháyres passed away in 1971
February 26, 1907 ~ Harry Goldberg, commonly known as Dixieland jazz saxophonist, bandleader Harry Gold, born in Leytonstone, UK ~ Driving force behind Britain's post-war Dixieland revival. Decided to pursue a career in music after seeing the Original Dixieland Jazz Band in concert in the late-1910s. Has worked with the Magnetic Dance Band, the Florentine Dance Band, and notably the Metronomes, establishing himself as a gifted arranger during his stint with the latter, and with Oscar Rabin. Rose to fame in the late-1940s, early-1950s leading the Pieces Of Eight ~ Goldberg passed away in 2005
February 26, 1879 ~ Violist, conductor, composer Frank Bridge born in Brighton, UK ~ Bridge wrote chamber music and orchestral pieces. Violinist for the Grimson Quartet. Played viola with the English String Quartet. Privately tutored Benjamin Britten, who would later pay homage with the composition Variations On A Theme Of Frank Bridge based on Bridge's Three Idylls For String Quartet ~ Bridge passed away in 1941