February 7, 2023 ~ Birrell Josef Mendelson, commonly known as singer, guitarist, songwriter, painter Mendelson Joe, passed away ~ Also known as a painter and political activist, his art used to express political themes. As a musician active since the mid-1960s. Formed early 1970s group the McKenna Mendelson Mainline with guitarist Mike McKenna. Mendelson would depart the blues group in 1972, to be replaced by up-and-coming talent Rick James. Mendelson has also collaborated with the likes of Ben Mink, Gwen Swick, and Colin Linden ~ Mendelson was born in 1944
February 7, 2023 ~ Poet, composer Richard Kell, full name Richard Alexander Kell, passed away ~ Best known as a poet, writing since his early teens. Widely known for the poem Pigeons. Also wrote a limited amount of music, noted for his 1976 Symphonic Elegy commemorating the death of his wife Muriel, and Variations On A Notorious Theme ~ Kell was born in 1927
February 7, 2022 ~ Jazz saxophonist, flutist, cellist, trombonist, pianist , composer Zbigniew Namyslowski, full name Zbigniew Jacek Namyslowski, passed away ~ Has released solo albums since the mid-1960s. Has collaborated with artists such as Janusz Muniak, Leszek Mozdzer, Michal Urbaniak, and Andrzej Trzaskowksi ~ Namyslowski was born in 1939
February 7, 2021 ~ Engineer, producer Elliot Mazer passed away in San Francisco, California, USA ~ Worked with acts such as Chubby Checker, Linda Ronstadt, Bob Dylan, Gordon Lightfoot, Crosby Stills & Nash, Y&T, Barclay James Harvest, Mike d'Abo, James Cotton, Area Code 615, the Tymes, and others. Notable production credits include Big Brother & the Holding Company's Cheap Thrills, Neil Young's Harvest and Tonight's The Night, and the Band's The Last Waltz ~ Mazer was born in 1941
February 7, 2021 ~ Rosalind Cron, commonly known as jazz, big band saxophonist Roz Cron, passed away ~ Considered a pioneer of female big band music. Best known as a member of the International Sweethearts Of Rhythm, one of the first all-female big bands ~ Cron was born in 1925
February 7, 2021 ~ Opera director Stefano Mazzonis di Pralafera passed away in Liège, Belgium ~ Best known as director of the Opera Royal De Wallonie from 2007 until his death in 2021 ~ Di Pralafera was born in 1948
February 7, 2020 ~ Singer, guitarist, songwriter Steve Weber passed away in Mount Clare, West Virginia, USA ~ Best known for co-founding psychedelic folk outfit Holy Modal Rounders with singer, fiddler Peter Stampfel. The band has recorded over half a dozen albums and earned a cult following with their unique blend of folk and psychedelia. Reportedly the track Hesitation Blues of their 1964 eponymous The Holy Modal Rounders was the first song to include the word “psychedelic” in its lyrics. Weber and Stampfel have also briefly played with the Fugs ~ Weber was born in 1943
February 7, 2019 ~ Dulcimer player Bill Spence passed away in Albany, New York, USA ~ Co-founded the Fennig All-Stars ~ Spence was born in 1940
February 7, 2019 ~ Bassist, songwriter, label executive Randy Nauert passed away in Malibu, California, USA ~ One of the pioneers of surf music. Worked with the Bel Airs, the Challengers, Clee Shays, Surfride, the Good Guys, the De-Fenders ~ Nauert was born in 1945
February 7, 2018 ~ Songwriter, lyricist, poet, essayist John Perry Barlow passed away in San Francisco, California, USA ~ As a musician best known for his association with the Grateful Dead, co-writing songs such as Cassidy, Mexicali Blues, Black-throated Wind, The Music Never Stopped and Throwing Stones ~ Barlow was born in 1947
February 7, 2018 ~ Drummer, actor Mickey Jones passed away in Houston, Texas, USA ~ Founding member of the First Edition, best known for backing Kenny Rogers. Also worked with the Catalinas, Trini López, Bob Dylan, and others ~ Jones was born in 1941
February 7, 2018 ~ Drummer, singer Pat Torpey passed away ~ Best known as drummer, singer for Mr Big. Has also played with John Parr, Belinda Carlisle, Robert Plant, Montrose, Richie Kotzen, the Knack, Impellitteri, Ted Nugent, Jeff Paris, Paul Gilbert, Akira Takasaki, Andrew Ridgeley, and others ~ Torpey was born in 1953
February 7, 2017 ~ Jazz violinist, vibraphonist, singer Svend Asmussen passed away in Dronningmolle, 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, Stuff Smith, and others ~ Asmussen was born in 1916
February 7, 2012 ~ Max Rosen, commonly known as harpist, songwriter Robert Maxwell, passed away ~ Best remembered for co-writing Shangri-La recorded by the Four Coins and by the Lettermen, and for co-writing Ebb Tide, recorded by Frank Chacksfield, Vic Damone, Ella Fitzgerald, the Platters, the Righteous Brothers, Tom Jones, and by numerous others ~ Rosen was born in 1921
February 7, 2009 ~ Jazz singer, pianist Blossom Dearie, full name Margrethe Blossom Dearie, passed away in Greenwich Village, New York, USA ~ Worked with Johnny Mercer, Miles Davis, Jack Segal, Johnny Mandel, Duncan Lamont, Bob Dorough, Dave Frishberg, Jay Berliner, King Pleasure, and others ~ Dearie was born in 1924
February 7, 2006 ~ Jazz tenor saxophonist, arranger Jack Montrose passed away in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA ~ Leader and sideman. Worked with Jerry Gray, Art Pepper, Clifford Brown, Chet Baker, Elmer Bernstein, Frank Butler, Shelly Manne, Shorty Rogers, Mel Tormé, and others ~ Montrose was born in 1928
February 7, 2001 ~ Lucille Wood Smith, commonly known as singer, actress, songwriter Dale Evans passed away in Apple Valley, California, USA ~ Third wife of singing cowboy Roy Rogers, with she formed a successful on- and off-screen team starring in numerous films and remaining married until Rogers' death in 1998 ~ Smith was born in 1912
February 7, 2000 ~ Christopher Lee Rios, commonly known as rapper Big Pun, passed away in White Plains, New York, USA ~ Discovered by Fat Joe, guesting on the 1995 album Jealous One's Envy. Released his solo debut Capital Punishment, in 2017, the first solo hip-hop album by a Latino artist to go Platinum. Has worked with the Full-A-Clips, Lyrical Assassin, the Beatnuts, Terror Squad, Noreaga, Donell Jones, Ashanti, his son Chris Rivers, Shaquille O'Neal, Easy Mo Bee, Delinquent Habits, Heavy D, and others ~ Ross was born in 1971
February 7, 2000 ~ Hard rock, blues rock, boogie rock guitarist, singer, songwriter Dave Peverett, also known as Lonesome Dave Peverett, passed away in Orlando, Florida, USA ~ Member of blues rock outfit Savoy Brown from 1967 through 1970, including on the acclaimed albums Blue Matter and Raw Sienna. Best known as lead singer, co-founding and constant member of Foghat, known best for their 1975 Fool For The City album which spawned the Billboard Hot 100 top 20 hit Slow Ride ~ Peverett was born in 1943
February 7, 1999 ~ Pop singer, actress Bea Miller, full name Beatrice Annika Miller, born in Maplewood, New Jersey, USA ~ First gained attention in 2012, reaching 9th place in season 2 of The X-Factor aired on Fox. A debut EP, Young Blood, would follow in 2014, her full-length Not An Apology released the next year. The latter would spawn the modest hit Fire n Gold, which peaked in the low 70s on the Billboard Hot 100
February 7, 1999 ~ Jazz pianist, singer, songwriter, actor Bobby Troup, full name Robert Wesley Jr, passed away in Los Angeles, California, USA ~ Best remembered for writing the Route 66, covered by Nat King Cole, Chuck Berry, the Rolling Stones, Them, and many more. Produced Julie London's 1955 hit Cry Me A River. Has released solo albums since the early-1950s ~ Troup was born in 1918
February 7, 1997 ~ Drummer Ashwin Sood and singer Sarah McLachlan marry in Negril, Jamaica ~ Sood is known for backing his wife on her best-known albums. The couple have two daughters, India and Taja, and would divorce in 2008
February 7, 1996 ~ Isaiah Kehinde, commonly known as accordionist IK Dairo, passed away ~ Worked with Talwo Igese, Ojoge Daniel, and with his own band the Blue Spots ~ Dairo was born ca.1930
February 7, 1996 ~ Frederick Gittens, commonly known as jazz bassist, singer Tiny Winters, passed away ~ Best known as renowned sideman serving under direction of bandleaders such as Roy Fox, Bert Ambrose, Lew Stone, Ray Noble, Nat Gonella, George Chisholm, and others ~ Gittens was born in 1909
February 7, 1995 ~ Southern rock, country rock, rock guitarist, keyboardist, drummer, singer Billy Jones, full name William Harry Jones, passed away in Spring Hill, Florida, USA ~ Best known as guitarist of the Outlaws, present on the band's first six albums starting with the eponymous 1975 Outlaws debut album up to and including 1980's Ghost Riders ~ Jones was born in 1949
February 7, 1991 ~ Bluegrass banjoist, guitarist, mandolinist, bassist, singer Jessie Baker born ~ Has worked with Karl Shiflett, Michael Cleveland, Marty Raybon, David Peterson, Cody Shuler, Doyle Lawson, and others. Released his Yessir solo debut album in 2009. Also notably present on the Dailey & Vincent albums Brothers Of The Highway, Alive In Concert and Patriots And Poets
February 7, 1988 ~ Sarangi player Suhail Yusuf Khan born in Delhi, India ~ Closely associated with James Yorkston and Jon Thorne, releasing several albums as a trio starting with 2016's Everything Sacred. Worked with folk fusion group Khamira, present on the band's eponymous 2017 Khamira debut album
February 7, 1985 ~ Terrence Edward Parsons, commonly known as singer Matt Monro, passed away in London, UK ~ Dubbed “the Man with the Golden Voice” with a career spanning three decades. Known best for hits such as Portrait Of My Love, My Kind Of Girl, Softly As I Love You, Walk Away, and the Beatles-cover Yesterday, all of which reached the British top 10 ~ Parsons was born in 1930
February 7, 1983 ~ Singer, violinist Benedicte Maurseth born in Eldfjord, Norway ~ Plays traditional folk. First picked up the fiddle at age 7. Has worked with Knut Hamre, Nils Okland, Sigbjørn Apeland, Berit Opheim, Jon Fosse, Gabriel Fliflet, Stein Utheim, Kristoffer Voght, Per Jorgensen, and others
February 7, 1983 ~ Singer, songwriter, producer Sam Martin, full name Samuel Denison Martin, born in New York, New York, USA ~ First gained attention working with David Guetta, co-writing and singing on songs such as Lovers On The Sun and Dangerous. Also known for writing songs such as Want To Wnat Me (Jason Derülo) and Daylight (Maroon 5). Key member of Con Bro Chill. Has also worked with Ziggy Marley, One Direction, Nick Jonas, Zedd, Flo Rida, Prince Royce, the Chainsmokers, Pitbull, Jon Bellion, Snoop Dogg, TI, Armin Van Buuren, G-Eazy, and others
February 7, 1982 ~ Rhythm guitarist Joseph Reinhardt passed away ~ Pioneered the amplified jazz guitar in France. Baby brother of Django Reinhardt, with whom he also worked especially on the the Quintette du Hot Club recordings from the 1930s. Has also recorded as a solo artists and collaborated with Stéphane Grappelli ~ Reinhardt was born in 1912
February 7, 1981 ~ R&B, soul singer, actor, songwriter Jimmie Wilson born in Detroit, Michigan, USA ~ Represented San Marino in the 2017 Eurovision Songfestival, duetting with Valentina Monetta on Spirit Of The Night which failed to reach the finals. Sung and acted in the late 1990s Michael Jackson-produced stage musical Sisterella. Played the title role of Barack Obama in the 2010 German musical Hope (Das Obama Musical)
February 7, 1979 ~ Musicologist, folklorist, composer Charles Seeger, full name Charles Louis Seeger Jr, passed away in Bridgewater, Connecticut, USA ~ Father of singers Pete Seeger, Mike Seeger and Peggy Seeger ~ Seeger was born in 1886
February 7, 1979 ~ Herbert Lee Holland, commonly known as swing trumpeter Peanuts Holland, passed away in Stockholm, Sweden ~ Worked with Alphonso Trent, Al Sears, the Jeter-Pillars Orchestra, Willie Bryant, Jimmie Lunceford, Coleman Hawkins, Fletcher Henderson, Charlie Barnet, Don Redman, Don Byas, Buck Clayton, Guy Lafitte, Mezz Mezzrow, Don Redman, Stuff Smith, Kay Starr, and others ~ Holland was born in 1910
February 7, 1979 ~ Latin pop singer, actor Sergio O'Farrill born ~ Active since his mid-teens. Member of Kabah, known for hits such as Vive, La Vida Que Va, Mai Mai, Te Necesito, Al Pasar, Una Illusion, Antro, Al Final, La Calle De Las Sirenas, and Amigas Y Rivales. Following the band's disbandement O'Farrill has recorded as a solo artist, releasing songs through his Soundcloud page
February 7, 1975 ~ Rock guitarist, singer Wes Borland, full name Wesley Louden Borland, born in Richmond, Virginia, USA ~ Member of Limp Bizkit, joining the band in 1995 and present on the band's best-known including the band's first three albums Three Dollar Bill Yall, Significant Other, and Chocolate Starfish & the Hot Dog Flavored Water. Lead singer, guitarist for industrial rock outfit Black Light Burns. Co-founding member of experimental metal band Big Dumb Face. Has also recorded as a solo artist, starting with the album Crystal Machete released in 2016, and collaborated with Eat The Day, Goatslayer, the Damning Well, Drop Dead Gorgeous, Combichrist, From First To Last, and others
February 7, 1974 ~ Drummer, singer, songwriter Danny Goffey, full name Daniel Robert Goffey, born in the Buckinghamshire, UK ~ Member of the Jennifers, known for their sole Just Got Back Today single released in 1992. Best known as co-founding member of Britpop band Supergrass, known for the UK top 10 hits Alright, Going Out, Richard III, Sun Hits The Sky, and Moving
February 7, 1974 ~ James Dewitt Yancey, commonly known as producer, rapper J Dilla, born in Detroit, Michigan, USA ~ Also known under the moniker Jay Dee. Emerged in the 1990s. Remixed for Janet Jackson, Pharcyde, De La Soul, Busta Rhymes and A Tribe Called Quest. One third of rap group Slum Village. Member of producers collective Ummah, which also consisted of Tribe members Q-Tip and Ali Shaheed Muhammad and later Raphael Saadiq. Founding member of production collective the Soulquarians. Debuted as a solo artist in 2001 with the single F-ck The Police. During his lifetime his solo career never really took off but highly regarded within the industry for his behind the scenes work, remixing and producing, and for his role in various collectives. Seen by some as “the Godfather of lo-fi hip-hop” ~ Yancey passed away in 2006
February 7, 1974 ~ Jun Seba, commonly known as producer, DJ, songwriter Nujabes, born in Nishi Azabu, Japan ~ Collaborated with Uyma Hiroto, Verbal, Minmi, Cyne, Cise Starr, Apani B, Five Deez, Substantial, CL Smooth, Fat Jon, Terry Callier, Funky DL, and others ~ Seba passed away in 2010
February 7, 1972 ~ Trip hop, drum and bass, IDM, nu jazz producer, DJ Amon Tobin, full name Amon Adonai Santos de Araujo Tobin, born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil ~ Noted for his unusual use of audio manipulation techniques, transforming any give source material to produce a new sound often making the original source unrecognisable. Over a dozen albums to his name using various monikers, starting with Bricolage released in 1997. Tobin's music has been used in TV series such as Top Gear and films such as The Italian Job and 21
February 7, 1969 ~ Jazz bassist Chris Minh Doky born in Copenhagen, Denmark ~ Brother of pianist Niels Lan Doky, with whom he also worked i the Doky Brothers. Has also recorded as a solo artist and collaborated with Mike Stern, Michael Brecker, Trilok Gurtu, Ryuichi Sakamoto, David Sanborn, and others
February 7, 1968 ~ Salvatore Paul Erna Jr, commonly known as alternative metal, rock, post-grunge singer, guitarist, songwriter Sully Erna born in Lawrence, Massachusetts, USA ~ Lead vocalist, rhythm guitarist of rock band Godsmack
February 7, 1967 ~ David Anthony Love Jr, commonly known as DJ, rapper, producer Kid Capri, born in the Bronx, New York, USA ~ Produced tracks for Boogie Down Productions, Heavy D, Grand Puba. Released his full-length The Tape solo debut album in 1991
February 7, 1963 ~ Country singer Patsy Cline records He Called Me Baby ~ Written by Harlan Howard. Produced by Owen Bradley. Recorded shortly before her death. Released in 1964, paired with Won'tcha Come Home Bill Bailey on the B-sie
February 7, 1962 ~ David Bryan Rashbaum, commonly known as keyboardist David Bryan, born in Perth Amboy, New Jersey, USA ~ Longtime member of Bon Jovi, appearing on all of the band's album as well as on some of the bandmates Jon Bon Jovi and Richie Sambora solo albums. Co-wrote songs such as Only Lonely, The Hardest Part Is The Night, To The Fire, In These Arms, Last Cigarette, and others
February 7, 1962 ~ Country, country-pop, country-rock singer, songwriter Garth Brooks, full name Troyal Garth Brooks, born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA ~ Biggest country singer of the 1990s, merging a traditional country and honky-tonk feel with elements of rock, arena rock and pop. Sold over 170 million records. Known for his grand arena shows, reminiscent more of arena acts such as Kiss, Aerosmith and the Rolling Stones than traditional country singers. Debuted in 1989 with the eponymous Garth Brooks album. Well known songs include The Dance, Friends In Low Places, Unanswered Prayers, Shameless, The River, Somewhere Other Than The Night, Ain't Going Down Till The Sun Comes Up and Longneck Bottle
February 7, 1962 ~ Progressive rock, art-rock, alternative rock singer, keyboardist William D Drake, full name William Derek Drake, born in Chelmsford, UK ~ Best known as member of cult band the Cardiacs from 1983 through 1992. Has also worked with the Sea Nymphs, the North Sea Radio Orchestra, Nervous, Lake Of Puppies, Rachel Goswell, Wood, Funki Porcini, the Grown Ups and recorded about half a dozen albums as a solo artist
February 7, 1960 ~ Steve William Forrest, commonly known as keyboardist, guitarist, percussionist, songwriter Steve Bronski born in Glasgow, UK ~ Co-founding member of Bronski Beat, along with Jimmy Somerville and Larry Steinbachek, known for songs such as Smalltown Boy, Why and Hit That Perfect Beat ~ Forrest passed away in 2021
February 7, 1960 ~ Urszula Beata Kasprzak, mononymously known as pop, rock singer, pianist, accordionist Urszula, born in Lublin, Poland ~ Known for her stint in Budka Suflera and as a solo artist recording since the early 1980s
February 7, 1959 ~ Saxophonist, arranger Brian Travers born in Birmingham, UK ~ Co-founding member of UB40, best known for a string of UK hits, mostly during the 1980s and early 1990s including Red Red Wine, If It Happens Again, the Sonny & Cher-cover I Got You featuring Chrissie Hynde, Rat In The Kitchen and the Elvis Presley-cover I Can't Help Falling In Love ~ Travers passed away in 2021
February 7, 1959 ~ Eddie Jones, commonly known as singer, guitarist Guitar Slim, passed away in New York, New York, USA ~ One of the first to experiment with distortion effects on the electric guitar. Cited as an influence by later guitarists including Buddy Guy, Albert Collins, Frank Zappa and Jimi Hendrix. Best known for The Things That I Used To Do, a millionseller in 1954 ~ Jones was born in 1926
February 7, 1958 ~ Saxophonist, pianist, conductor, composer Frans Bak born in Copenhagen, Denmark ~ Worked with bands such as Blast, Buztop, Det Glatte and Jazzgruppe 90. Also collaborated with Bob Berg and Randy Brecker. Also known as an in-demand film and TV composer
February 7, 1958 ~ José Manuel Mijares-Morán, commonly known as pop singer Manuel Mijares, born in Mexico City, Mexico ~ Popular in Latin-America from the mid-1980s to mid-1990s. Best known for songs such as Bella, Soñador and Siempre. Married to singer, actress Lucero from 1997 to 2011, with whom he has two children
February 7, 1957 ~ Willis Parker, commonly known as blues, jazz singer, drummer Sonny Parker, born in Youngstown, Ohio, USA ~ Had King Kolax as a sideman. Recorded extensively with Lionel Hampton, including on the 1949 hit Drinking Wine (Spo-dee O-dee Drinking Wine) ~ Parker was born ca.1925
February 7, 1956 ~ Rock & roll singer, pianist Little Richard records Long Tall Sally at J&M Studios, New Orleans, Louisiana ~ Written by Richard, Enotris Johnson and Robert Bumps Blackwell, the latter also serving as producer. It would become one of the singer's best known aand a rock & roll standard covered by hundreds of artists. Released as a single in 1956, b/w Slippin' & Slidin', it would reach No.1 Billboard R&B. Richards on lead vocal and piano is backed by Lee Allen and Alvin Tyler on saxophones, Edgar Blanchard guitar, Frank Fields double bass, and Earl Palmer drums
February 7, 1956 ~ Mark Leslie Norton, commonly known as guitarist Mark St John, born in Hollywood, California, USA ~ Best known for his brief stint with Kiss, present on the 1984 Animalize album. Subsequently formed glam metal outfit White Tiger known best for their 1986 eponymous White Tiger album ~ Norton passed away in 2007
February 7, 1955 ~ R&B singer Julia Nixon, full name Julia Carol Nixon, born ~ Fronted Julia & Company, known best for Breakin' Down (Sugar Samba) and I'm So Happy. The former would reach the UK top 20 in 1984 ~ Nixon passed away in 2021
February 7, 1954 ~ Singer, producer Dieter Bohlen, full name Dieter Gunter Bohlen, born in Berne, West Germany ~ Best known as half of Modern Talking, the other half being Thomas Anders, known for 1980s eurodisco hits such as You're My Heart You're My Soul, You Can Win If You Want and Cheri Cheri Lady
February 7, 1953 ~ Talib Kibwe, commonly known as jazz saxophonist, flutist, educator TK Blue, born ~ Worked with Don Cherry, Jayne Cortez, Dollar Brand, Randy Weston, Jimmy Scott, Benny Powell, the Arkadia Jazz All-Stars, Sam Rivers, and others
February 7, 1952 ~ Jazz, traditional pop singer Doris Day records A Guy Is A Guy ~ Written by Oscar Brand based on the traditional song I Went To The Alehouse (A Knave Is A Knave) dating back to 1719. Released as a single, b/w Who Who Who, would reach top 10 on the pop charts. Singer Ella Fitzgerald would record a cover version the same year
February 7, 1952 ~ Singer, songwriter Vasco Rossi born in Zocca, Italy ~ One of the best-selling Italian artists with over 35 million copies sold. Has written or co-written more than 250 songs, including for other artists. Actively recording since the mid-1970s. Best known for songs such as Albachiara, Siamo Solo Noi and Vita Spericolata
February 7, 1951 ~ Actor, singer, songwriter Kim Milford, full name Richard Kim Milford, born in Glen Ridge, New Jersey, USA ~ Known for his roles in the stage musicals Hair, The Rocky Horror Show and Jesus Christ Superstar. Briefly sang with Beck Bogert & Appice in 1972 ~ Milford passed away in 1988
February 7, 1951 ~ Singer Mayte Mateos born ~ Formed the duo Baccara with Maria Mendiola, best known for their 1977 debut single Yes Sir I Can Boogie. The single would reach the higher echelons of the charts throughout Europe and eventually sell over 18 million copies. Subsequent hits would include Sorry I'm A Lady and Darling. The duo would also represent Luxembourg at the 1978 Eurovision Songfestival, reaching 7th place with Parlez-Vous Francais
February 7, 1949 ~ Bassist Alan Lancaster, full name Alan Charles Lancaster, born in Peckham, UK ~ Co-founding member of Status Quo, remaining with the band through 1985 and rejoining on occassion in later years. Sang lead on songs such as Backwater, Is There A Better Way, Bye Bye Johnny, High Flyer and Roadhouse Blues ~ Lancaster passed away in 2021
February 7, 1949 ~ Folk, folk-pop singer, guitarist, songwriter Bert Sommer, full name Bert Wiliam Sommer, born in Albany, New York, USA ~ Appeared in the musical Hair. Wrote several tracks for the Vagrants. Member of baroque pop band the Left Banke. Released a handful of solo albums, starting with The Road To Travel in 1968. Performed at Woodstock ~ Sommer passed away in 1990
February 7, 1949 ~ Drummer, singer Joe English born ~ Member of Paul McCartney's 1970s outfit the Wings from 1975 through 1977, present on the albums Venus And Mars and Wings At The Speed Of Sound. Sang lead vocals on the track Must Do Something About It taken of the latter album. Subsequently worked with Sea Level through 1980, first appearing on the 1978 On The Edge album. Became a born-again Christian by the early 1980s and is currently involved with the Word Of Faith Fellowship church
February 7, 1948 ~ Arranger, conductor, violist, violinist, pianist, composer David Campbell born in Toronto, Canada ~ Has worked on over 450 gold and platinum albums across a wide range of artists including Michael Jackson, Rush, Muse, Aaliyah, Evanescence, KT Tunstall, Aerosmith, Barbra Streisand, Leonard Cohen, Garth Brooks, Ariana Grande, Adele, and various albums by his son lo-fi singer, guitarist Beck
February 7, 1948 ~ Keyboardist, singer Jimmy Greenspoon, full name James Boyd Greenspoon, born in Los Angeles, California, USA ~ Member of surf outfit the New Dimensions. Co-founding member of Three Dog Night, known for 1970s Billboard Hot 100 top 10 hits such as One, Easy To Be Hard, Eli's Coming, Mama Told Me Not To Come, Joy To The World, Liar, An Old Fashioned Love Song, Never Been To Spain, Black & White, Shambala, and The Show Must Go On. Greenspoon has also worked with artists such as Linda Ronstadt, America, the Beach Boys, Nils Lofgren, Stephen Stills, Steve Cropper, Leon Russell, the East Side Kids, and others ~ Greenspoon passed away in 2015
February 7, 1948 ~ William McKenzie, commonly known as singer, songwriter, trombonist Red McKenzie, passed away in New York, New York, USA ~ Co-founded the Mound City Blowers in 1923 with Jack Bland and Dick Slevin, later joined by guitarist Eddie Lang. The quartet is known for songs such as One Hour and Hello Lola and worked with artists such as Glenn Miller, Pee Wee Russell, Coleman Hawkins, Bunny Berigan, Jimmy Dorsey, and Muggsy Spanier ~ McKenzie was born in 1899
February 7, 1947 ~ Progressive rock, psychedelic rock drummer John Weathers, full name John Patrick Weathers, born in Carmarthen, UK ~ Best known as member of progressive rock band Gentle Giant. Has also worked with Eyes Of Blue, Big Sleep, Man, Wild Turkey, and others
February 7, 1946 ~ Country singer, songwriter Sammy Johns, full name Sammy Reginald Johns, born in Charlotte, North Carolina, USA ~ Best known for Chevy Van, a hit in 1975 ~ Johns passed away in 2013
February 7, 1943 ~ Country singer, guitarist Tony Booth born in Tampa, Florida, USA ~ Influenced by Ray Price. Initialy recording under the moniker Johnny Booth, debuting in 1967 with the Country '67 album. Founded and fronted the band Modern Country. First gained attention in 1970 with the Merle Haggard-cover Irma Jackson and would continue to record extensively through the mid-1970s, using his own name Tony Booth
February 7, 1943 ~ Walter Simon Notheis, commonly known as rock & roll singer Walter Scott, born in St Louis, Missouri, USA ~ Lead singer of Bob Kuban & the In-Men known for Look Out For The Cheater, a Billboard Hot 100 top 20 hit in 1966. After the band disbanded Notheis pursued a solo career but would be unable to achieve the same level of success. Notheis disappeared in 1983, his body found by police four years later. His wife and her lover would be found guilty of his murder ~ Notheis passed away in 1983
February 7, 1941 ~ Bassist Bill Van Buskirk was born in Fort Wayne, Indiana, USA ~ Member of R&B outfit Checkmates Ltd, known best for their 1969 single Black Pearl taken of the Love Is All We Have To Give album. It would be the band's only Billboard Hot 100 top 20 hit, also reaching top 10 Billboard R&B. A follow-up single, Proud Mary, would reach top 30 in the UK. The band is noted for being one of the few to feature both black and white members
February 7, 1940 ~ Singer Bob Burnett born in Providence, Rhode Island, USA ~ Member of the Highwaymen, influential on the early 1960s folk scene. The band is best known for songs such as All My Trials, Big Rock Candy Mountain and Cotton Fields ~ Burnett passed away in 2011
February 7, 1937 ~ Singer, drummer Svante Thuresson born in Stockholm, Sweden ~ Member of early 1960s band Gals & Pals. Represented Sweden in the 1966 Eurovision Songfestival teaming up with singer Lill Lindfors, reaching second place with the song Nygammal Vals
February 7, 1936 ~ Classical, contemporary classical, baroque flutist William Bennett, full name Wiliam Ingham Brooker Bennett, born in London, UK ~ Worked with George Malcolm, Osian Ellis, Yehudi Menuhin, the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra, the Sadler's Wells Opera, the London Symphony Orchestra, the Melos Ensemble, George Malcolm, Clifford Benson, Osian Ellis, the English Chamber Orchestra, Jimi Hendrix, Wynton Marsalis, and others ~ Bennett passed away in 2022
February 7, 1934 ~ Earl Silas Johnson IV, commonly known as blues, New Orleans R&B singer, guitarist, songwriter Earl King, born in New Orleans, Louisiana, USA ~ Best remembered for penning blues classics such as Big Chief (covered by Professor Longhair), Trick Bag (covered by the Meters, and by Robert Palmer), and for Come On (covered by Jimi Hendrix, Freddie King, Stevie Ray Vaughan). ~ King passed away in 2003
February 7, 1934 ~ Curtis Montgomery, commonly known as saxophonist King Curtis, born in Fort Worth, Texas, USA ~ In-demand collaborator, session musician. Helped shape rock & roll and R&B. As a solo artist best known for the hits Soul Twist and Memphis Soul Stew. Has worked with Buddy Holly, the Coasters (Yakety Yak), Nat Adderley, Aretha Franklin (RESPECT), Ruth Brown, Lionel Hampton, Donny Hathaway, Waylon Jennings, Lavern Baker, John Lennon, and others ~ Curtis passed away in 1971
February 7, 1932 ~ Rockabilly, country singer Warren Smith born in Humphrey's County, Mississippi, USA ~ Active since the mid-1950s. Best known for a number of early 1960s singles, most notably I Don't Believe I'll Fall In Love Today and Odds And Ends (Bits And Pieces) ~ Smith passed away in 1980
February 7, 1929 ~ Jazz clarinetist Dave Shepherd, full name David John Shepherd, born in London, UK ~ Worked with Reg Rigden, Joe Daniels, Freddy Randall, Billie Holiday, Gerry Mulligan, Ted Kotick, the Jazz Today Unit, Mary Lou Williams, Teddy Wilson, the Pizza Express All-Star Band, and others ~ Shepherd passed away in 2016
February 7, 1927 ~ Singer, actress Juliette Gréco born in Montpellier, France ~ Darling of intellectual circles in post-war France. Romantically involved with both Miles Davis and Quincy Jones. Debuted as a cabaret singer in the 1949 production of Le Boeuf Sur Le Toit. The song Michelle by the Beatles is said to be inspired by Gréco ~ Gréco passed away in 2020
February 7, 1927 ~ Laurence Reginald Ward Johnson, commonly known as composer, bandleader Laurie Johnson, born in Hampstead, UK ~ Composed scores for dozens of films and TV series. Also highly regarded as arranger of instrumental pop and swing music
February 7, 1927 ~ Jazz vibraphonist Michel Hausser born in Colmar, France ~ Worked with Eddie Barclay, Christian Chevalier, Henri Crolla, Benny Golson, Stéphane Grappelli, Roger Guerin, Bobby Jaspar, Lucky Thompson, Sarah Vaughan, Jacky Samson, Jean Guerin, Franco Manzecchi, Teddy Martin, George Arvanitas, Johnny Griffin, and others
February 7, 1925 ~ Jazz drummer, vibraphonist Ray Alexander born ~ Best known for his association with Peggy Lee (Beauty & The Beat), and with Martin Denny (Quiet Village). Has also worked with Claude Thornhill, Bobby Byrne, the Dorsey Brothers, Stan Getz, Mel Tormé, Chubby Jackson, Charlie Barnet, Anita O'Day, Mel Lewis, and others ~ Alexander passed away in 2002
February 7, 1922 ~ Folk singer, actor Leon Bibb born in Louisville, Kentucky, USA ~ Father of Eric Bibb, with whom he also recorded. Performed at the first the Newport Folk Festival in 1959. Blacklisted during the late 1950s for alleged ties to left-wing groups and causes. Acclaimed for his performance on the soundtrack to the 1960 Luis Bunuel-film The Young One ~ Bibb passed away in 2015
February 7, 1921 ~ Nathan Bernstein, commonly known as impresario, bandleader Tito Burns, born in London, UK' ~ As a musician worked with Lou Preager, Carl Barriteau, Denis Rose, Ronnie Scott, Johnny Dankworth, Tony Crombie, and others. Burns would switch to management by the mid-1950s, serving as manager and impresario for artists such as Cliff Richard, the Searchers, and others. Discovered Dusty Springfield. Tour promoter for Bob Dylan ~ Bernstein passed away in 2010
February 7, 1921 ~ Wilma Lee Leary, commonly known as bluegrass, country singer, guitarist Wilma Lee Cooper, born in Valley Head, West Virginia, USA ~ Member of family gospel outfit the Leary Family. Married to fiddler, singer Stoney Cooper, with whom she also worked. Starting in the 1940s the duo would score several country hits including Big Midnight Special and There's A Big Wheel. After Stoney's passing in 1977, Wilma Lee would perform and record as a solo artist albeit it less frequently ~ Leary passed away in 2011
February 7, 1920 ~ Classical pianist, composer Germaine Mounier born in Neuilly-sur-Seine, France ~ Influenced by Frédéric Chopin. Acclaimed as an interpreter of the works of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Claude Debussy and Ferruccio Busoni, especially in partnership with pianist Hélène Boschi. Has also worked with Yves Nat and Magda Tagliaferro ~ Mounier passed away in 2006
February 7, 1920 ~ Folk singer, songwriter Oscar Brand born in Winnipeg, Canada ~ Wrote over 300 songs. Nearly 100 albums to his name, many including Canadian and American patriotic songs. Author of several books on folk collections ~ Brand passed away in 2016
February 7, 1914 ~ Jazz clarinettist, hornist Carl Barriteau born in Trinidad ~ Leader and sideman. Worked with the Jazz Hounds, the Willams Brothers Blue Rhythm Orchestra, Ken Snakehips Johnson, and others ~ Barriteau passed away in 1998
February 7, 1914 ~ Songwriter, lyricist, TV personality Sejr Volmer-Sørensen born in Kristianstad, Sweden ~ Wrote the lyrics to Grethe & Jörgen Ingmann's Dansevise, the 1963 Eurovision Songfestival winner ~ Volmer-Sørensen passed away in 1982
February 7, 1903 ~ Poet, lyricist Ricardo López Méndez born in Izamal, Mexico ~ Founded several radio stations, including XHRLM-FM which still bears his initials. As a songwriter perhaps best remembered for co-writing Amor with Gabriel Ruiz, first recorded by Chucho Martínez Gil in 1940 and covered by well over 100 artists including Xavier Cugat, Cliff Richard, and Trini López ~ López passed away in 1989
February 7, 1901 ~ Singer, banjoist Austin Allen born in Sewanee, Tennessee, USA ~ Formed the old time, country duo the Allen Brothers with his brother Lee Allen, known for songs such as Salty Dog Blues and Bow Wow Blues ~ Allen passed away in 1959
February 7, 1896 ~ Bandleader, pianist, songwriter Earl Burtnett born in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, USA ~ Popular during the 1920s and 1930s. Worked with Art Hickman including as arranger and writer co-responsible for songs such as Sleep, Leave Me With A Smile and Mandalay. Took over as bandleader when Hickman retired in the late-1920s ~ Burtnett passed away in 1936
February 7, 1895 ~ Bandleader, pianist Irving Aaronson born in New York, New York, USA ~ Aaronson's band included musicians such as Phil Saxe, Joe Gillespie, Artie Shaw, Gene Krupa, Tony Pastor, and others, some of whom would later become noted bandleaders in their own right. Aaronson's most popular song, The Loveliest Night Of The Year, was not recorded with his own band but adapted for Mario Lanza and featured in Lanza's 1950 movie Mario Lanza Great Caruso ~ Aaronson passed away in 1963
February 7, 1883 ~ James Hubert Blake, commonly known as ragtime, jazz pianist, composer Eubie Blake, born in Baltimore, Maryland, USA ~ Co-wrote the musical Shuffle Along with Noble Sissle. As a composer also known for Bandana Days, Charleston Rag, Love Will Find A Way, Memories Of You and I'm Just Wild About Harry. Resurged in the 1970s, appealing to younger generations, after the release of his retrospective The 86 Years Of Eubie Blake album, released in 1969 ~ Blake passed away in 1983
February 7, 1882 ~ Ragtime, dixieland clarinetist, bandleader, composer Wilbur Sweatman, full name Wilbur Coleman Sweatman, born in Brunswick, Missouri, USA ~ Became the youngest bandleader in 1901 by leading the the Forepaugh & Sells Circus Band band. Trailblazer in the racial integration of musical groups. Has worked with the PG Lowery Band, WC Handy, the Mahara Minstrels, Scott Joplin, and others. ~ Sweatman passed away in 1961
February 7, 1864 ~ Singer Arthur Collins, full name Arthur Frances Collins, born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA ~ Regarded as “the King of Ragtime Singers”. Half of Collins & Harlan, the other half being Byron G Harlan ~ Collins passed away in 1933
February 7, 1841 ~ Violinist John Thomson Hall born in Sydney, Australia ~ Child prodigy performing in public by the age of 12. Orchestra leader with the Lyster's Opera Company, later promoted to musical director. Orchestra leader at the Theatre Royal Adelaide ~ Hall passed away in 1883
February 7, 1779 ~ Composer, organist William Boyce passed away ~ Largely forgotten after his death Boyce would nevertheless draw great admiration during his life, admired by the likes of George Frideric Handel, Thomas Arne, Christoph Willibald Gluck, Johann Christian Bach, and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Like Ludwig van Beethoven later on, Boyce became deaf yet continued to compose. Perhaps best remembered for his Symphony No.1 In B-Flat, its Allegro being the first piece of music played during the procession of the bride and bridegroom at the conclusion of the wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in 2018 ~ Boyce was born in 1711