February 28, 2022 ~ William Dermot Colleran, commonly known as bluegrass singer, mandolinist, guitarist Mac Martin, passed away in McMurray, Pennsylvania, USA ~ Playing professionaly while still in high school, starting out duetting with Ed Brozi. Formed the Pike County Boys in the late-1940s, and due to the band consisting of three “Bills” changed his stage name to Mac. Perhaps best known for founding the Dixie Travelers, active for about two decades starting in 1957 ~ Colleran was born in 1925
February 28, 2021 ~ Protopunk, hard rock, synth-pop singer, guitarist, bassist Ian North passed away ~ Co-founding member of glam, power pop outfit Milk 'n Cookies, known for their 1974 eponymous Milk 'n Cookies album which initially failed to make an impact, strained by a record company unsure of how to market this band, but which later became a cult classic ~ North was born in 1952
February 28, 2020 ~ Singer Lady Gaga releases Stupid Love, lead single off her Chromatica album ~ A house-infused dance-pop and electropop song, Stupid Love tells of gathering the courage to fall in love again after a heartbreak. Lady Gaga would later comment: “When we all decide to be vulnerable, (…) it's very scary for a lot of people and there's all kinds of laws and constructs and things that have built all around us. I'd love for it to collapse as many of those walls as possible and people to be saying, ‘I want your Stupid Love. I love you.’” The single would reach top 10 in over a dozen countries, including the UK and America
February 28, 2019 ~ Andreas Ludwig Priwin, commonly known as pianist, composer, arranger, conductor André Previn, passed away in New York, New York, USA ~ As an arranger and composer for Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer involved in the music for over 50 films. Won four Oscars for best music scoring or adaptation on the films Gigi, Porgy & Bess, Irma La Douce and My Fair Lady. Also a music director and conductor closely associated with leading classical orchestras including the Houston Symphony, the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, the Los Angeles Philharmonic, the Oslo Philharmonic, the London Symphony Orchestra, and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. Worked in smaller ensembles such as jazz trios and accompanied jazz singers, mostly focusing on the American Songbook idiom ~ Previn was born in 1929
February 28, 2019 ~ Guitarist Ed Bickert passed away in Toronto, Canada ~ Started as studio musician and sideman for Ron Collier, Moe Koffman, Phil Nimmons. Has toured with Ruby Braff, Frank Rosolino, Milt Jackson, Oscar Peterson, Buddy Tate, Peter Appleyard. Also recorded with Ernestine Anderson, Benny Carter, Rosemary Clooney, Lorne Lofsky, Dave McKenna, Ken Peplowski, and with Neil Swainson. Bickert worked extensively with Canadian bandleader Rob McConnell on various projects from 1969's the Boss Brass through to 1998's Big Band Christmas. In the 1970s, at the end of Desmond's life, Bickert also worked with Paul Desmond, starting on 1974's Pure Desmond, which brought him to an international audience. The association with Desmond resulted in several live concerts as a “Canadian” quartet featuring Bickert, Desmond, bassist Don Thompson and drummer Jerry Fuller, some of which were released on LP ~ Bickert was born in 1932
February 28, 2016 ~ TV producer, composer Don Battye passed away in Puerto Princesa, Philippines ~ Best known as a TV producer, script writer, script editor for a variety of Australian shows. As a composer known for co-writing a number of musicals, including several specifically for children from the early-1970s onwards, usually in partnership with Peter Pinne ~ Battye was born in 1938
February 28, 2013 ~ Pianist, conductor, film composer Armando Trovaioli passed away in Rome, Italy ~ Best known as a prolific film composer with over 300 credits to his name, including for Anna scoring the international hit El Negro Zumbon. Also wrote the music for a number of musicals, notably 1962's Rugantino and 1974's Aggiungi Un Post A Tavola ~ Trovajoli was born in 1917
February 28, 2011 ~ Actress, singer, model Jane Russell, full name Ernestine Jane Geraldine Russell, passed away in Santa Maria, California, USA ~ Best known as an acclaimed actress and one of Hollywood's leading sex symbols of the 1940s and 1950s. As a singer best known for two 1947 singles backed by Kay Kyser and his orchestra, namely As Long As I Live and Boin-n-n-ng, and her 78rpm album Let's Put Out The Lights, released the same year ~ Russell was born in 1921
February 28, 2010 ~ R&B pianist, singer Clayton Love passed away in St Louis, Missouri, USA ~ Fronted his own blues outfit the Shufflers in the early-1950s. Would go on to play with Ike Turner's the Kings Of Rhythm, singing lead vocals on songs such as Do You Mean It, She Made My Blood Run Cold and The Big Question ~ Love was born in 1927
February 28, 2008 ~ Pop, beat singer, keyboardist, songwriter Mike Smith, full name Michael George Smith, passed away in Aylesbury, UK ~ Lead singer, keyboardist of the Dave Clark Five, prior to the emergence of the Rolling Stones seen as the main rivals to the Beatles. The band is known for songs such as Glad All Over, Bits And Pieces, Can't You See That She's Mine, and Catch Us If You Can, all of which reached top 10 on both sides of the Atlantic ~ Smith was born in 1943
February 28, 2006 ~ Jazz drummer Irv Kluger passed away ~ Played violin before learning drums. Mostly active during the 1940s. Worked with Georgie Auld, Bob Chester, Freddie Slack, Dizzy Gillespie, Boyd Raeburn, Bobby Byrne, Herbie Fields, Stan Kenton, Artie Shaw, Tex Beneke, the Gramercy Five, Dave Pell, Benny Goodman, Woody Herman, and Pete Rugolo ~ Kluger was born in 1921
February 28, 2005 ~ Christopher Crummey, commonly known as drummer, singer Chris Curtis, passed away in Liverpool, UK ~ Member of Merseybeat outfit the Searchers from 1960, replacing Norman McGarry, through 1966. Wrote or co-wrote most of the band's original material and constantly on the lookout for obscure songs. Present on recordings such as Needles And Pins, Sugar And Spice, Don't Throw Your Love Away and Ain't That Just Like Me ~ Curtis was born in 1941
February 28, 2002 ~ Classical, swing, jazz violinist, composer Helmut Zacharias passed away in Brissago, Switzerland ~ Influenced by Django Reinhardt and Stéphane Grappelli. Dubbed “the Magic Violinist”. Internationally best known for When The White Lilacs Bloom Again, a Billboard top 20 hit in 1956. Also known as an actor, starting in the late-1940s, usually playing the role of musicians ~ Zacharias was born in 1920
February 28, 1999 ~ Christian hip-hop rapper, songwriter Aaron Cole, full name Aaron Tyrese Cole, born in Bristol, Virginia, USA ~ Released his debut album, Jesus Is The Rock, in 2003 at age 4. Best known for his 2017 non-album single Right On Time featuring TobyMac and One More Day of his 2018 Virginia Boy EP
February 28, 1998 ~ Baritone opera singer, actor Todd Duncan, full name Robert Todd Duncan, passed away in Washington DC, USA ~ Played the role of Porgy in the original 1935 production of George Gershwin's Porgy & Bess. One of the first African-Americans to sing with a major opera company, namely the New York City Opera in 1945, performing the role of Tonio in Ruggero Leoncavallo's Pagliacci. Sang the first version of Unchained Melody, written by Alex North and Hy Zaret, for the 1955 film Unchained. It would be nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Song and be covered by numerous others, perhaps most notably the Righteous Brothers in 1965 ~ Duncan was born in 1903
February 28, 1994 ~ Jake Edwin Charles Kennedy, commonly known as indie singer, guitarist, bassist, pianist, songwriter Jake Bugg, born in Nottingham, UK ~ Debuted in 2012 with his eponymous Jake Bugg album, working closely with Iain Archer. The album would top the UK albums chart, two of its singles would also reach the top 30, namely Lightning Bolt and Two Fingers
February 28, 1994 ~ Organist, pianist, composer Olivier Alain, full name Olivier Georges Alain, passed away in Ferolles-Atilly, France ~ Son of Albert Alain, brother of Jehan Alain and Marie-Claire Alain, all renowned organists. Director of the Saint-Germain-en-Laye Conservatory from 1950 through 1964. Director of the Ecole Casar Franck in Paris from 1960 through 1974. Founder of Conservatoire National de Region in Paris, serving as its director from 1976 through 1985. Has composed some 170 works, most of which are still unpublished. Alain has also authored several books, including a monograph on Johann Sebastian Bach ~ Alain was born in 1918
February 28, 1993 ~ Sofiane Youssef Samir Bousaadia, commonly known as rapper, singer Boef, born in Aubersvillers, France ~ One of the most successful rappers to emerge from the mid-2010s Dutch hip-hop and rap scene. Released his full-length Gewoon Boef debut album in 2016. Sparked controversy in early 2018 for his misogynist comments, eventually resulting in a ban from most major stations. Best known for songs such as Overal featuring F1rstman & DJ Youss-F, Habiba, Come Again with Ronnie Flex, Krantenwijk with Lil' Kleine, Op Me Monnie with Frenna, Dom and Treinstation
February 28, 1988 ~ Singer, keyboardist, guitarist, mandolinist, songwriter Markéta Irglová born in Valasske Mezirici, Czechoslovakia ~ Forms the folk rock duo the Swell Season with guitarist, singer Glen Hansard. The duo rose to prominence following the success of the 2007 indie film Once, the pair starring in a dramatised version of their own musical pairing. Their song Falling Slowly, used in the film, won the Academy Award for Best Song. Subsequently the movie would be made into a Broadway stage adaption, which would win no less than eight Tony Awards
February 28, 1986 ~ British rockers the Rolling Stones release Harlem Shuffle, lead single off their Dirty Work album ~ Originally an early-1960s track recorded and penned by Bob & Earl. Guitarist Keith Richards had been looking for songs to include on the upcoming album with Ronnie Wood and Bobby Womack, who sings backup on the track, while waiting for Mick Jagger to return to the studio after doing promo work on his recently released She's The Boss solo album. Jagger liked the feel of the song, and quickly completed the vocals. It would be the first time in about two decades that the Rolling Stones had a cover song as a lead single. Harlem Shuffle would reach top 10 in over half a dozen countries, including the USA and the Netherlands
February 28, 1985 ~ David Garrick, commonly known as hard rock, progressive rock, art rock singer, songwriter David Byron, passed away in Berkshire, UK ~ Known for his operatic voice and flamboyant stage presence. Best known as lead singer of Uriah Heep from 1969 through 1976, present on key albums such as Demons & Wizards, Uriah Heep Live and Sweet Freedom. Released his Take No Prisoners solo debut album in 1975, featuring Heep-bandmates Mick Box, Ken Hensley and Lee Kerslake. Formed the shortly-lived Rough Diamond with Clem Clempson and Geoff Britton, known for their eponymous 1977 Rough Diamond album. ~ Garrick was born in 1947
February 28, 1985 ~ Felicia Lily Dobson, commonly known as singer, guitarist, songwriter Fefe Dobson, born in Scarborough, Canada ~ Cited John Lennon, Judy Garland, Michael Jackson, Janet Jackson, and NSYNC as main influences. Debuted in 2003 with the eponymous Fefe Dobson, which spawned the singles Bye Bye Boyfriend and Don't Go (Girls & Boys). Also known for songs such as Ghost, Stuttering, and Can't Breathe, the latter featuring Orianthi
February 28, 1981 ~ Pop, rock singer, songwriter Maren Ord, full name Maren Whitney Ord, born in Edmonton, Canada ~ First gained attention in the late-1990s performing in the Lilith Fair tour, leading to a record deal. Would release her Waiting debut album in 2001. Best known for songs such as Shining Time, Sarah, and Perfect, the latter used for the Crazy-Beautiful soundtrack
February 28, 1977 ~ Singer, songwriter Jason Aldean born in Macon, Georgia, USA ~ Best known for his 2010 My Kinda Party album. Since debuting in 2005 has regularly reached the higher echelons of the country charts with songs such as Why, Big Green Tractor, Don't You Wanna Stay featuring Kelly Clarkson, Dirt Road Anthem, Take A Little Ride, Burnin' It Down, You Make It Easy, Drowns the Whiskey featuring Miranda Lambert and Got What I Got
February 28, 1976 ~ At the 18th Grammy Awards, Still Crazy After All These Years by singer Paul Simon, wins two Grammy Awards including Album of the Year ~ Released the previous October, Still Crazy After All These Years would be a critical and commercial success. The album won two Grammy Awards, one for Best Male Pop Performance and one for Album of the Year. Highlights of the album include 50 Ways To Leave Your Lover which reached No.1 Billboard Hot 100, My Little Town which also featured former partner Art Garfunkel, and the lead single Gone At Last, the latter a duet with singer Phoebe Snow. The album itself would reach top 10 in the UK, and top the Billboard Hot 200 in Simon's native America
February 28, 1974 ~ Songwriter, singer Bobby Bloom passed away in Hollywood, California, USA ~ One-hit wonder known for Montego Bay, co-written with and produced by Jeff Barry. The song would reach top 10 in Canada, the UK and America. Bloom's follow-up to Montego Bay, the single Heavy Makes You Happy, would fail to make much of an impression but would become a hit for the Staple Singers in 1971. Bloom also co-wrote Mony Mony for Tommy James & the Shondells, Sunshine for the Archies and Do It In The Name Of Love for the Monkees as well as several other tracks of the latter's Changes album ~ Bloom was born in 1946
February 28, 1973 ~ Pablo Rodriguez Lozada, commonly known as singer, bandleader Tito Rodriguez, passed away in New York, New York, USA ~ Lovingly dubbed “El Involvidable” (The Unforgettable One) by his fans, a moniker based on his most popular song. Sang under the tutelage of his brother, Johnny Rodriguez, before embarking on a solo career. In the 1940s the brothers moved to New York where Tito worked as a percussionist and singer for Eric Madriguerea, and later Xavier Cugat. In the 1950s, to great success Tito directed his own groups, recording mambos, cha-cha-cha, boleros, sones, guaraches and pachangas ~ Rodríguez was born in 1923
February 28, 1970 ~ Novelist, children's author, screenwriter, accordionist Daniel Handler born in San Francisco, California ~ Best known as an author, writing adult novels under his own name and children's books under the pseudonym Lemony Snicket. As a musician best known for his association with Stephin Merritt, playing accordion with the Gothic Archies and notably on several tracks of the Magnetic Fields's pivotal 69 Love Songs release. Also worked with the Edith Head Trio and with Tzamboni
February 28, 1969 ~ Singer Elisa Fiorillo born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA ~ Won the 1985 talent show Star Search and would subsequently be signed by Chrysalis Records. Featured vocalist on Jellybean's Who Found Who, a top 20 hit across the globe. Released her eponymous Elisa Fiorillo the same year, though to little success. Would go on to sing backup for Prince, including on the soundtracks of Graffiti Bridge and Batman, as well as on Prince's Diamonds And Pearls album. Became an official member of the New Power Generation in 2009 and continued to work with Prince until his death in 2016
February 28, 1963 ~ Cool jazz, hard bop saxophonist, flutist, composer Bobby Jaspar passed away in New York, New York, USA ~ Married to singer Blossom Dearie from 1954 to 1957. Leader and sideman. Worked with the Bop Shots, JJ Johnson, Kenny Burrell, Miles Davis, John Coltrane, Toshiko Akiyoshi, Donald Byrd, René Thomas, Chet Baker, Herbie Mann, George Wallington, Milt Jackson, Hank Jones, and Johnny Rae ~ Jaspar was born in 1926
February 28, 1963 ~ R&B, soul singer Sam Cooke records Another Saturday Night at RCA Studios, Los Angeles, USA ~ Self-penned, reportedly while on a UK tour staying in a hotel that allowed no female guests. Produced by Hugo Peretti and Luigi Creatore. Backing musicians: John Anderson trumpet, Streamline Ewing trombone, Jewell Grant saxophone, Ray Johnson piano, Clifton White and René Hall guitars, Clifford Hills bass. Paired with Love Will Find A Way on the flip side it would be released in April 1963, top the Billboard R&B charts and reach top 10 on the all-genre Billboard Hot 100
February 28, 1962 ~ Country singer Patsy Cline records So Wrong at Bradley Film & Recording Studio, Nashville, Tennessee ~ Written by Carl Perkins, Danny Dill and Mel Tillis. Produced by Owen Bradley. Paired with You're Stronger Than Me on the flip side it would be released as a single the following July. During the same session Cline also recorded the Harlan Howard-penned When I Get Thru With You, released as a single in May 1962
February 28, 1960 ~ Alternative rock, pop rock, electronic singer, songwriter Angela McCluskey born in Glasgow, UK ~ Co-founding member, lead singer of critically acclaimed Los Angeles-based outfit Wild Colonials which also included her husband Paul Cantelon, the folk-tinged band known best for the mid-1990s albums Fruit Of Life and This Can't Be Life. McCluskey has also recorded as a solo artist, specifically acclaimed for her 2004 The Things We Do album, and has notably guested on tracks by the Garden Of Eden, Télépopmusik (Breathe), Deep Forest, Kendrick Lamar (Is It Love), Morgan Page, Delerium, Andy Caldwell, Paul Oakenfold (You Could Be Happy), Parov Stelar, and Big Gigantic. Upon hearing of her death, McCluskey's friend of 25 years Julie Panebianco remarked: “She was a singer's singer. Her versions of Famous Blue Raincoat and My Funny Valentine are the ‘only’ versions. She didn't just cover songs, she stole them” ~ McCluskey passed away in 2024
February 28, 1959 ~ Guitarist, songwriter Jon Dee Graham born in Austin, Texas, USA ~ Member of the Skunks. Member of the True Believers, which also included Alejandro Escovedo. Also worked with artists such as John Doe, Exene Cervenka, James McMurtry, Eliza Gilkyson, Kelly Willis, John Hiatt, Michelle Shocked, Patty Griffin, Calvin Russell, Lone Justice, Charlie Sexton, Jim Keltner, Rafael Gayol, Mark Andes, Michael Hardwick, Andrew Duplantis, Susan Cowsill, Freedy Johnston, Ry Cooder, Terry Garland, Susa Voelz, Kacy Crowley, the Gourds, and Jack Ingram
February 28, 1959 ~ Morris Gittier, commonly known as songwriter, composer, lyricist Mack Gordon, passed away ~ Stage, film songwriter, lyricist. Nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Song nine times. Won once, namely for You'll Never Know from the 1943 film Hello Frisco Hello, sung by Alice Faye ~ Gittier was born in 1904
February 28, 1958 ~ Drummer Alan Sandow born in Adelaide, Australia' ~ Best known as member of Sherbet from 1969 through 1984 and present on some of the band's biggest hits including Cassandra, Slipstream, Summmer Love, Life, and perhaps their best known Howzat
February 28, 1957 ~ Cynthia Leigh Wilson, commonly known as new wave, alternative rock, pop rock singer, guitarist Cindy Wilson born in Athens, Georgia, USA ~ Co-founding member of new wave outfit the B52's, which also included her brother the late Ricky Wilson. Cindy was present on all the band's albums except for 1992's Good Stuff, taking a hiatus to focus on her family life. Present on songs such as Rock Lobster, Love Shack and Roam
February 28, 1957 ~ Keyboardist, songwriter Ian Stanley born ~ Member of Tears For Fears for most of the 1980s, notably present on the band's Songs From The Big Chair album. Has since gone on to work mostly as a producer, collaborating with artists such as Lloyd Cole & the Commotions, A-ha, the Pretenders, Howard Jones, Republica, Naimee Coleman, Natalie Imbruglia, Human League, Tori Amos, and the Beautiful South
February 28, 1957 ~ Drummer, keyboardist, singer Phil Gould, full name Philip Gabriel Gould, born in Hong Kong ~ Co-founded Level 42 with Mike Lindup, Mark King and his brother Boon Gould, remaining with the band through 1987 and present on the band's best-selling albums World Machine and their breakthrough Running In The Family. Gould would return to sessioning, including on occasion with Level 42, after splitting the band. Notably, previously Gould drummed on Pop Muzik, a Billboard No.1 hit for M
February 28, 1956 ~ Singer, guitarist John Fahey born in Takoma Park, Maryland, USA ~ Influential fingerstyle guitarist. Draws from folk, blues, classical, world music. Would fade in and out of poverty and obscurity during the course of his career but was always held in the highest acclaim by peers and resurge in the late-1990s finding a new audience among the alternative crowd with both new listeners and fellow musicians including Sonic Youth and Cul De Sac ~ Fahey passed away in 2001
February 28, 1953 ~ Singer, songwriter, producer John Wicks born in Berkshire, UK ~ As a recording artist best known as lead singer and primary songwriter of Records. Solo artist from 1982 onwards. Produced and wrote, often with lyricist partner Will Birch, for others including the Searchers, Mary Chapin Carpenter, Too Much Joy, and Michael Monroe ~ Wicks passed away in 2018
February 28, 1952 ~ Saxophonist Ed Manion born ~ Tenor and baritone saxophonist perhaps best known for his associations with Southside Johnny & the Asbury Jukes, the Miami Horns, Little Steven, the E Street Band, serving as band member, session saxophonist, touring member. Has also worked with Diana Ross, Gary US Bonds, Willy DeVille, Darlene Love, Debbie Davies, Bon Jovi, Kim Wilson, Graham Parker, and the Robert Cray Band. As a solo artist acclaimed for his instrumental album, Nightlife, released in 2015
February 28, 1951 ~ Jazz singer Roseanna Vitro born in Hot Springs, Arkansas, USA ~ Leader and sidewoman. Especially acclaimed for her Grammy Award-nominated 2011 album The Music Of Randy Newman, receiving 4½ stars in Down Beat rating. Worked with Arnett Cobb, Oscar Peterson, Tommy Flanagan, Keter Betts, Kenny Wheeler, Kenny Barron, Christian McBride, Elvin Jones, Gary Bartz, Kevin Mahogany, and David Fathead Newman
February 28, 1947 ~ Singer Alex Taylor, full name Alexander Robert Taylor, born ~ Brother of more famous singer, songwriter James Taylor. Known best for his 1971 With Friends And Neighbors album with backing from his brother James, Willie Bridges, King Curtis, Ronnie Cuber, and Paul Hornsby. James's song Sweet Baby James is about Alex's son James ~ Taylor passed away in 1993
February 28, 1946 ~ Pop rock singer, guitarist, bassist Don Ciccone, full name Donald Joseph Ciccone, born in Jersey City, New Jersey, USA ~ Founding member of the Critters, known for songs such as Younger Girl and Mr Dieingly Sad. Member of the Four Seasons in the 1970s, present on December 1963 (Oh What A Night) and Rhapsody. Subsequently a member of the Shondells through 1987 ~ Ciccone passed away in 2016
February 28, 1946 ~ Avant-garde jazz guitarist Pierre Dørge born in Copenhagen, Denmark ~ Leader and sideman. Leads the New Jungle Orchestra, merging jazz with African music. Has also worked with John Tchicai, Johnny Dyani, Marilyn Mazur, Khan Jamal, David Murray, Don Cherry, Walt Dickerson, Doudou Gouirand, Butch Morris, and with his wife pianist Irene Becker
February 28, 1943 ~ R&B singer, songwriter Barbara Acklin, full name Barbara Jean Acklin, born in Oakland, California, USA ~ Backing singer for Fontella Bass, Etta James, and Koko Taylor. Wrote or co-wrote songs such as Stoned Out Of My Mind, Toby, Too Good To Be Forgotten and Have You Seen Her for the Chi-lites, Whispers (Gettin' Louder) for Jackie Wilson, and Two Little Kids for Peaches & Herb. As a recording artist, Acklin duetted with Gene Chandler on Show Me The Way To Go and From The Teacher To The Preacher, and scored several hits as a solo singer including Love Makes A Woman, Just Ain't No Love, Raindrops, and Am I The Same Girl. The latter would be covered by Dusty Springfield and as an instrumental, renamed to Soulful Strut, by Young-Holt Unlimited ~ Acklin passed away in 1998
February 28, 1943 ~ Pop singer, songwriter, producer, label executive Peter Shelley, full name Peter Alexander Southworth, born in London, UK ~ Active as plugger and talent scout since the mid-1960s. Responsible for signing Amen Corner, Ten Years After, and Giles Giles & Fripp to Decca Records, the latter later evolving into King Crimson. Co-founded Magnet Records in the early-1970s, for whom he developed the persona of Alvin Stardust and signed acts such as Guys & Dolls and Chris Rea. As a singer Shelley is best known for the mid-1970 UK hits Gee Baby and Love Me Love My Dog ~ Southworth passed away in 2023
February 28, 1942 ~ Guitarist, sitarist, keyboardist, percussionist Brian Jones, full name Lewis Brian Hopkin Jones, born in Cheltenham, UK ~ Co-founding member and original leader of the Rolling Stones, pushed to the back by manager Andrew Loog Oldham steered the band away from blues and more towards rock & roll. Best known as a slide guitarist as evidenced on songs such as I Wanna Be Your Man, I'm A King Bee, I'm Movin' On and No Expectations yet played several other instruments including sitar (Street Fighting Man, Paint It Black), organ (Let's Spend The Night Together), dulcimer, mellotron, marimba (Under My Thumb, Out Of Time), and saxophone (Citadel), and numerous other instruments. Fired by the band in 1969 as Jones's substance abuse became a problem and replaced by Mick Taylor. Jones passed away a month later, found dead in his swimming pool at age 27 ~ Jones passed away in 1969
February 28, 1942 ~ Singer, bandleader, actor Judd Hamilton born in Republic, Washington, USA ~ Session musician, A&R executive, producer, songwriter, arranger closely associated with the Dolton, United Artists and RCA-Victor labels. Known for his contributions to the development of Surf music through his work with artists such as the Avantis and the Ventures as well as pop and rock with acts like the T-Bones which consisted mostly of in-demand session musicians in varying line-ups at times including guitarist Tommy Tedesco and drummer Hal Blaine. Hamilton also worked as a TV and film producer and writer. As a solo artist he is best known for Rules, Mixed-Up Guy, Whatever Happened To July and Don't Be Afraid Of The World
February 28, 1941 ~ Ramon Bautista Ortega, commonly known as singer, actor Palito Ortega, born in Lules, Argentina ~ Considered an icon of Argentinian music ushering in a new wave, la nueva ola, of popular Argentinian music in the 1960s. Briefly a member of the Lyons taking over for lead singer Peter Rock, but leaving within months to pursue a solo career. Over two dozen albums to his name, starred in numerous movies. Known for songs such as Corazon Contente, Poptitos and perhaps his biggest hit Yo Tengo Fé. Active in Argentinian politics, serving as Governor and Senator, from 1991 to 1999
February 28, 1940 ~ Joseph Alfred Souter, commonly known as singer, guitarist, songwriter Joe South born in Atlanta, Georgia, USA ~ Best known as songwriter responsible for songs such as Games People Play, Down In The Boondocks, Yo Yo, Hush, and Rose Garden. In-demand session musician including on songs such as Tommy Roe's Sheila and Aretha Franklin's Chain Of Fools, and albums such as Bob Dylan's Blonde On Blonde and Simon & Garfunkel's The Sounds Of Silence. Artists who have recorded South's songs include Billy Joe Royal, the Osmonds, Lynn Anderson, Deep Purple, Jerry Lee Lewis, Johnny Cash, Glen Campbell, Loretta Lynn, Gene Vincent, Carol Burnett, Andy Williams, Kitty Wells, Dottie West, Jim Nabors, Arlen Roth, Liz Anderson, the Georgia Satellites, Waylon Jennings, Ike & Tina Turner, Hank Williams Jr, James Taylor, the Tams, and kd Lang ~ Souter passed away in 2012
February 28, 1940 ~ Jazz guitarist, banjoist, singer Marty Grosz, full name Martin Oliver Grosz, born in Berlin, Germany ~ Leader and sideman. Closely associated with Bob Wilber. Also worked with Kenny Davern, Dick Sudhalter, Keith Ingham, Soprano Summit, Dick Wellstood, Joe Pass, Herb Ellis, Charlie Byrd, Wayne Wright, Randy Sandke, Ruby Braff, Jim Cullum Jr, Peter Ecklund, Wild Bill Davison, Jeff Healey, Art Hodes, Terra Hazelton, Jabbo Smith, and Maxine Sullivan
February 28, 1939 ~ Free jazz saxophonist, pianist, bassist, clarinetist, percussionist Charles Gayle born in Buffalo, New York, USA ~ After decades of obscurity rose to prominence in the late-1980s and 1990s, starting with the albums Always Born, Homeless and Spirits Before, three albums recorded in a single week. Well over two dozen albums to his name as a leader. Sideman on recordings by Cecil Taylor (Always A Pleasure), Henry Rollins, the Blue Humans, and William Parker ~ Gayle passed away in 2023
February 28, 1938 ~ Percussionist, vibraphonist, bandleader, composer Louie Ramirez born in New York, New York, USA ~ Sometimes referred to as “the Quincy Jones of Salsa”. Staff producer at Fania. Drew from boogaloo, salsa and latin jazz. Co-wrote Johnny Pacheco's El Guiro De Macorina. Worked with Joe Loco, Charlie Palmieri, Joe Cuba, Tito Rodriguez, and Willie Colón ~ Ramirez passed away in 1993
February 28, 1937 ~ Singer Bing Crosby, backed by Jimmy Dorsey and orchestra, records Never In A Million Years ~ Written by Mack Gordon and Harry Revel for the 1937 musical film Wake Up And Live, in which it was sung officially by Jack Haley and dubbed by Buddy Clark. The biggest chart hit however would be Crosby, backed by Dorsey, released as a single paired with In A Little Hula Heaven on the B-side
February 28, 1937 ~ Elsa Mazzetti, commonly known as pop singer Cocky Mazzetti, born in Milan, Italy ~ Took her stage name after her poodle named “Cocky”. Member of the Minstrels Of Jazz during the 1950s. As a solo artist, Mazzetti enjoyed popularity through the mid-1960s. Well-known songs include an Italian translation of the Los Machucambos track Pepito, Giovane Giovane, and Nuttata 'E Luna. Later on in her career, Mazzetti gained renewed attention on the oldies circuit including as a member of the group the Oldies and as a recurring guest on several nostalgia-themed music TV shows on RAI ~ Mazzetti passed away in 2024
February 28, 1934 ~ Music manager, producer Giorgio Gomelsky, full name Giorgio Segio Alessando Gomelsky, born in Tiflis, Georgian SSR ~ Owned the the Crawdaddy Club where the Rolling Stones served as house band and was involved with their early management. Hired the Yardbirds as their replacement, becoming their manager and producer through 1966. Founded the 1960s Marmalade Records label, which signed Brian Auger, Julie Driscoll, the Blossom Toes, Graham Gouldman and Kevin Godley. In the 1970s became involved with progressive jazz rock bands including Gong, Henry Cow and Magma ~ Gomelsky passed away in 2016
February 28, 1934 ~ William Correa, commonly known as jazz percussionist Willie Bobo born ~ Played with Mongo Santamaria, George Shearing, Cal Tjader, Carlos Santana, Nat Adderley, Dorothy Ashby, Bob Brookmeyer, Eddie Lockjaw Davis, Miles Davis, Victor Feldman, José Feliciano, Benny Golson, Dexter Gordon, Grant Green, Chico Hamilton, Slide Hampton, Herbie Hancock, Eddie Harris, Bobby Hutcherson, Herbie Mann, Les McCann, Gary McFarland, Buddy Miles, Wes Montgomery, Oliver Nelson, Dave Pike, Tito Puente, Ike Quebec, Terry Reid, Dannie Richmond, Charlie Rouse, AK Salim, Doc Severinsen, Sonny Stitt, Gábor Szabó, Clark Terry, and with Don Wilkersen ~ Correa passed away in 1983
February 28, 1932 ~ Jazz double bassist, clarinetist, flutist Donald Garrett, full name Donald Rafael Garrett, born in El Dorado, Arkansas, USA ~ Started on clarinet and saxophone, switched to bass after meeting Wilbur Ware. Married to singer, cellist Kali Fasteau, with whom he formed the Sea Ensemble. Perhaps best known for his work with John Coltrane in the 1960s, including on the acclaimed Selflessness Featuring My Favorite Things album. Garrett has also appeared on albums by Paul Serrano, Rahsaan Roland Kirk (Introducing Roland Kirk), Eddie Harris, Archie Shepp (Three For A Quarter One For A Dime), Dewey Redman, Ira Sullivan, Dexter Gordon, and Joseph Jarman ~ Garrett passed away in 1989
February 28, 1928 ~ Romana Elena Burgues Gonzalez, commonly known as bolero, son singer Elena Burke, born in Havana, Cuba ~ Mother of singer Malena Burke. Member of vocal quartet the Cuarteto D'Aida, along with Moraima Secada, Omara Portuondo and Haydee Portuondo. Embarked on a successful solo career by the early-1950s and became one of Cuba's most beloved singers, praised for her emotional sincerity earning her the nickname “Señora Sentimiento” ~ Burgues passed away in 2002
February 28, 1927 ~ Steel guitarist Don Helms, full name Donald Hugh Helms, born in New Brockton, Alabama, USA ~ Best known as a member of country icon Hank Williams' backing unit the Drifting Cowboys. Appeared on over 100 Williams recordings. Sessioned on numerous other country classics including Patsy Cline's Walkin' After Midnight, Stonewall Jackson's Waterloo, the Louvin Brothers' Cash On The Barrelhead, Lefty Frizzell's Long Black Veil and Loretta Lynn's Blue Kentucky Girl. Worked with Johnny Cash early on in Cash's career, and collaborated with Hank Williams Jr, the Wilburn Brothers, Teresa Street, Joey Allcorn, and Vince Gill ~ Helms passed away in 2008
February 28, 1925 ~ Jazz saxophonist, clarinetist Bill Green, full name William Ernest Green, born in Kansas City, Kansas, USA ~ In-demand session musician active since the mid-1950s. To pop and rock audiences perhaps best known for appearing on the Beach Boys landmark album Pet Sounds released in 1966, and on Marvin Gaye's 1973 Let's Get It On album as well as I Want You released in 1976. More jazz-oriented work includes sessions for Buddy Collette, Benny Carter (Aspects), Peggy Lee, Cannonball Adderley, Oliver Nelson (Sound Pieces), Lou Rawls, Blue Mitchell, Sarah Vaughan, Gene Ammons, Horace Silver, Freddie Hubbard, and Quincy Jones ~ Green passed away in 1996
February 28, 1917 ~ Pianist, organist, harpsichordist, composer, conductor George Malcolm, full name George John Malcolm, born in London, UK ~ Introduced the harpsichord to new audiences, noted for his concerts with Thurston Dart, Denis Vaughn and Eileen Joyce. Worked with the Pro Arte Orchestra, Geoffrey Parsons, and Simon Preston. As a conductor, Malcolm was most closely associated with the English Chamber Orchestra and the Northern Sinfonia ~ Malcolm passed away in 1997
February 28, 1916 ~ Jazz violinist, vibraphonist, singer Svend Asmussen born in Copenhagen, Denmark ~ Known as “the Fiddling Viking,” Asmussen played with artists including Duke Ellington, Benny Goodman, Stéphane Grappelli. Early on in his career Asmussen worked the cruise ships supporting artists such as Josephine Baker and Fats Waller. Asmussen also recorded and played with Alice Babs, Ulrik Neumann, Lionel Hampton, Ray Nance, Toots Thielemans, Putte Wickman, and Stuff Smith ~ Asmussen passed away in 2017
February 28, 1903 ~ Lester Anthony Minnelli, commonly known as stage director, film director Vincente Minnelli, born in Chicago, Illinois, USA ~ To musical audiences known for directing several classic movie musicals. Both 1951's An American In Paris and 1958's Gigi would win an Academy Award for Best Picture, the latter also winning Minnelli the award for Best Director. Also notably directed Meet Me In St Louis starring Judy Garland, released in 1944 and MGM's most successful film musical of the 1940s. Minnelli and Garland would be married from 1945 until 1951, their daughter is singer Liza Minnelli. In addition to directing some of the best known musicals of his day, Minnelli has also made many comedies and melodramas ~ Minnelli passed away in 1986
February 28, 1882 ~ Opera singer Geraldine Farrar born in Melrose, Maine, USA ~ Enjoyed a devoted fanbase especially among young women, lovingly dubbed “Gerry-flappers”. Praised for the intimate timbre of her voice and remarkable acting ability. Worked with the Berlin Hofoper, the Monte Carlo Opera, the Metropolitan Opera, and other major orchestras. Had a seven-year love affair with the married conductor Arturo Toscanini who abruptly resigned from the NY Met in 1915 following Farrar's ultimatum to leave his wife ~ Farrar passed away in 1967