July 18, 2024 ~ Songwriter, producer Jerry Fuller passed away in Los Angeles, California, USA ~ Scored a minor hit as a solo artist with a rockabilly rendition of the country classic Tennessee Waltz in 1959. However, Fuller would become best known as a songwriter and producer, scoring his first major hit when Ricky Nelson took Travelin' Man to the top of the American charts in 1961. Fuller had originally written the song with Sam Cooke in mind, but Cooke passed, and the song would become one of Nelson's earliest and best known songs. Subsequently, Nelson recorded some two dozen more songs written by Fuller, including the Billboard Hot 100 top 10 hits A Wonder Like You, Young World, and It's Up To You. Following a stint in the Army, and touring with the Champs, Fuller relocated to New York, where he discovered the Knickerbockers, for whom he produced the 1965 Billboard Hot 100 top 20 single Lies. Fuller is also known writing and producing several hits for Gary Puckett, notably Young Girl, Lady Willpower, and Over You, and for his work with Mark Lindsay, the Peanut Butter Conspiracy, and OC Smith, producing the hits The Son Of Hickory Holler's Tramp and Little Green Apples for the latter ~ Fuller was born in 1938
July 18, 2023 ~ Deeon Boyd, commonly known as house, ghetto house DJ DJ Deeon, passed away ~ Influenced by John Rocca, Afrika Bambaataa, and Kraftwerk, first becoming interested on electronic music after listening to the latter's 1981 Computer World album. Regarded as one of the pioneers of ghetto house. Best known for his 1996 recording Freak Like Me. Other well known songs include Funk City, Bomb 96, Wicked, House-O-Matic, and The Freaks. Boyd was name mentioned in the Daft Punk track Teachers of the duo's 1997 Homework album ~ Boyd was born in 1966
July 18, 2022 ~ Hornist Vincent DeRosa, full name Vincent Ned DeRosa, passed away ~ Reportedly the all-time most recorded brass player. Especially acclaimed for his work in Hollywood, serving as first horn for film composers such as Henry Mancini, Lalo Schifrin and John Williams, the latter describing DeRosa as one of the greatest instrumentalists of his generation. Notable soundtracks include My Fair Lady, The Sound Of Music, Close Encounters Of The Third Kind and Rocky. In-demand studio, session musician for artists such as Frank Sinatra (In The Wee Small Hours), June Christy, Ella Fitzgerald, the Monkees, Frank Zappa (Lumpy Gravy), Harry Nilsson (Son Of Schmilsson), Rita Coolidge, John Denver, Sonny Criss, Minnie Riperton, Earth Wind & Fire (Faces), Glen Campbell, and Miles Davis ~ DeRosa was born in 1920
July 18, 2019 ~ Robert Landis Frank, commonly known as singer, guitarist, songwriter Bob Frank passed away ~ 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 was born in 1944
July 18, 2015 ~ Perry Carlton Buie, commonly known as songwriter, music promotor, manager Buddy Buie, passed away in Dothan, Alabama, USA ~ Closely associated with Roy Orbison, the Atlanta Rhythm Section, and perhaps most notably with Classics IV for which he wrote or co-wrote songs such as Spooky, Stormy and Traces. Other artists who recorded his songs include Tommy Roe (Party Girl), Gloria Estefan, Wynonna Judd, Garth Brooks (Mr Midnight), Travis Tritt, David Sanborn, Santana, and John Legend ~ Buie was born in 1941
July 18, 2014 ~ Alternative rock outfits Nine Inch Nails and Soundgarden kick off their co-headlining tour ~ Despite an uneasy history together the two kick off a joint tour, playing some two dozen shows in America, and one in Toronto over the course of less than two months, playing their last date in late August in Los Angeles, California
July 18, 2013 ~ Jazz, swing singer, guitarist Carline Ray passed away in Manhattan, New York, USA ~ Member of all-female ensemble the International Sweethearts Of Rhythm. After its disbandement would go on to work with Erskine Hawkins, Patti Page, Mary Lou Williams, Skitch Henderson, Marian McPartland, and Sy Oliver ~ Ray was born in 1925
July 18, 2013 ~ Pop, rock bassist Fons Sijmons passed away in Ghent, Belgium ~ Best known as member of the Scabs, joining the band in 1989 as replacement for Berre Bergen and remaining until the band folded in 1996. Has also worked with K13, Kadril, Marco Cassiman, Luk Bral, Luna Twist, Starvin' Marvin, the Big Noise, and Tom Wolf. As a songwriter had his songs recorded by Guy Swinnen, Mozaik, Walter Grootaers, Bart van den Bossche, Tiny Mp, and Tex ~ Sijmons was born in 1955
July 18, 2005 ~ Guitarist, singer, songwriter John Herald passed away in West Hurley, New York, USA ~ Influenced by Leadbelly, Woody Guthrie, Pete Seeger. Co-founding member of the Greenbriar Boys, with whom he backed Joan Baez before landing their own record deal. The band is also known for (Up To My Neck In) High Muddy Water, co-written by Herald, and notably covered by Linda Ronstadt. Herald has also worked with the Woodstock Mountain Revue ~ Herald was born in 1939
July 18, 2002 ~ Producer, label executive Seymour Solomon passed away ~ Co-founded Vanguard Records with his brother Maynard Solomon, a label focusing initially on classical music yet soon also expanding their catalogue with folk, jazz and blues. Non-classical artists signed by the label include the Weavers, Joan Baez, the Rooftop Singers, Larry Coryell, Mississippi John Hurt, Charlie Musselwhite, Buddy Guy and Country Joe & the Fish ~ Solomon was born in 1922
July 18, 1997 ~ Songwriter Harold Spina passed away ~ Composer, frequently collaborated with lyricists such as Johnny Burke, Joe Young, John Elliott and Bob Russell, responsible for songs such as Fats Waller's You're Not The Only Oyster In The Stew and My Very Good Friend The Milkman, Dinah Shore's It's So Nice To Have A Man Around The House and Patti Page's 1951 Billboard No.4 hit Would I Love You (Love You Love You), the latter also notably recorded by Doris Day, Tony Martin and Helen O'Connell ~ Spina was born in 1906
July 18, 1991 ~ R&B, pop singer, pianist, songwriter Karina Pasian born in New York, New York, USA ~ First gained attention as a contestant on the 2003 Star Search talen show. Released her full-length First Love debut album in 2008, spawning the modest hit Can't Find The Words, the album earning her a Grammy Award-nomination. Has collaborated with Quincy Jones, Lil' Mama, Trey Songz, Sammie, Sky Townsend
July 18, 1990 ~ Joseph Gaétan Robert Gérald Boulet, commonly known as rock singer, keyboardist, guitarist, trumpeter Gerry Boulet, passed away in Longeuil, Canada ~ Co-founding member, lead singer of Quebec-based progressive rock band Offenbach, with whom he recorded about a dozen albums including the acclaimed Never Too Tender and Caricatures. Boulet has also recorded two albums as a solo artist, Preque 40 Ans De Blues released in 1985 and its follow-up Rendez-Vous Doux released a year before his death ~ Boulet was born in 1946
July 18, 1989 ~ Art pop, indie pop, indie rock singer, bassist, keyboardist, songwriter Angel Deradoorian born in Los Angeles, California, USA ~ Member of the Dirty Projectors from 2007 through 2012. Released her full-length The Expanding Flower Planet debut album in 2015. Has collaborated with Discovery, the Roots, U2, Flying Lotus, Brandon Flowers, Avey Tare, and Rostam Batmanglij
July 18, 1988 ~ Christa Päffgen, commonly known as avant-garde, gothic rock, art rock, folk kock singer, actress Nico, passed away on Ibiza, Spain ~ Rose to prominence acting in films such as Federico Fellini's La Dolce Vita and Andy Warhol's Chelsea Girls. Sang with the Velvet Underground on the band's Velvet Underground & Nico debut album. As a solo artist known for her 1965 I'm Not Sayin' single produced by Jimmy Page and the Bob Dylan-penned I'll Keep It With Mine of her 1967 Chelsea Girl debut album ~ Päffgen was born in 1938
July 18, 1983 ~ Metalcore singer, drummer, guitarist Aaron Gillespie, full name Aaron Roderick Gillespie, born in Clearwater, Florida, USA ~ Drummer, co-founding member of Underoath. Lead singer, rhythm guitarist of the Almost. Drummer of the Dangerous Summer. Touring drummer for Paramore from 2013 through 2016. Has released a number of solo recordings, starting with 2015's Grace Through The Wandering album
July 18, 1982 ~ Mandla Maphumulo, commonly known as kwaito singer Mampintsha, born in Umlazi, South Africa ~ Member of Big Nuz, which he co-founded in 2002. The band is known best for songs such as Ubala of their sophomore 2nd Round Knockout breakout album, as well as later hits such as Umlilo, Newlands West, Sting Ray, and Inazo ~ Maphumulo passed away in 2022
July 18, 1982 ~ Singer, guitarist, pianist, drummer Ryan Cabrera, full name Ryan Frank Cabrera, born in Dallas, Texas, USA ~ Member of Rubix Groove. As a solo artist debuted in 2001 with the independently released album Elm St. Known for singles such as On The Way Down, True and 40 Kinds Of Sadness
July 18, 1982 ~ Shadrach Kabango, commonly known as rapper, guitarist Shad born in Kenya ~ Known for his witty lyrics and socially conscious subject matters. Influenced by Common, Lauryn Hill, the Roots, the Notorious BIG, OutKast. Self-released his full-length When This Is Over debut album in 2005. Has guested on recordings by Promise, the Blue Scholars, Grand Analog, Wax Romeo, Mike Tompkins, Blitz the Ambassador, K-OS, the Procussions, Said the Whale, and Tobi
July 18, 1981 ~ Jazz drummer, composer Matt Slocum born in New Richmond, Wisconsin, USA ~ Worked with Sara Gazarek, Seamus Blake, Alan Broadbent, Steve Cardenas, Gerald Clayton, Danny Grisett, Larry Koonse, Lage Lund, Wynton Marsalis, Linda Poh, Alan Pasqua, Jerome Sabbagh, Jaleel Shaw, Walter Smith II, Dayna Stephens, Ben Wendel, Gerald Wiggins, Anthony Wilson, and the Dallas Symphony Orchestra
July 18, 1979 ~ Richard Morales Jr, commonly known as hip-hop rapper Gunplay, born in El Paso, Texas, USA ~ Member of hip hop group the Triple C's, known for their 2009 Custom Cars & Cycles debut album. Released his full-length Living Legend solo debut album in 2015. Has collaborated with Mozzy, Waka Flocka Flame, A$AP Rocky, Lil' Wayne, Rick Ross, DJ Khaled, Bow Wow, Kendrick Lamar, NORE, and Cormega
July 18, 1979 ~ Bebop trombonist, actor Matthew Gee passed away in New York, New York, USA ~ Played with Coleman Hawkins, Dizzy Gillespie, Joe Morris, Gene Ammons, Sonny Stitt, Count Basie, Illinois Jacquet, Lou Donaldson, Sarah Vaughan, Duke Ellington, Paul Quinichette, Brooks Kerr, Johnny Griffin, and Erskine Hawkins ~ Gee was born in 1925
July 18, 1978 ~ Guitarist, keyboardist, percussionist, singer Tony Fagenson born ~ Son of bassist, guitarist, singer, producer Don Was of Was (Not Was). Co-founding member of Eve 6, with whom he recorded four albums. Co-founded Dead Posey with then-girlfriend Danyell Souza, whom he has since married
July 18, 1975 ~ William James McAuley III, commonly known as singer, songwriter, producer Bleu, born in USA ~ Solo recording artist. Member of Leo. Member of Loudlion alongside Taylor Locke and Allison Robertson. Wrote and produced for Demi Lovato, Selena Gomez, John Oates, Michelle Branch, Hey Violet, Big Freedia, and the Jonas Brothers
July 18, 1975 ~ Metal, alternative metal, hard rock guitarist, singer, songwriter Daron Malakian born in Hollywood, California, USA ~ Renowned metal guitarist. Best known as member of System Of A Down and as lead singer of Scars On Broadway. Guested on Cypress Hill's Trouble Seeker of the 2010 Rise Up album and on Linkin Park's Rebellion of their 2014 The Hunting Party album
July 18, 1975 ~ Mathaga Aruipragasam, commonly known as rapper, singer, songwriter MIA, born in Hounslow, UK ~ Released her Arular debut album in 2005. Best known for Paper Planes, a UK top 20 hit of her 2007 Kala sophomore album. Has guested on recordings by Jay-Z, Buruka Som Sistema, Rye Rye, SebastiAn, Madonna, Baauer, and Travis Scott
July 18, 1972 ~ Progressive metal, progressive rock, hard rock guitarist, singer Fredrik Åkesson, full name Karl Fredrik Henrik Åkesson, born in Stockholm, Sweden ~ Best known as member of Opeth. Has also worked with Krux, Monsters Of Metal, Talisman, Arch Enemy, Tiamat, John Norum, Sabbtail, Human Clay, Southpaw, and Clockwise
July 18, 1970 ~ Singer Gruff Rhys, full name Gruffudd Maredudd Bowen Rhys, born in Haverfordwest, UK ~ Best known as member of Super Furry Animals, reaching mainstream succes with 1990s hits such as If You Don't Want Me To Destroy You, Northern Lites, Juxtapozed With U and Golden Retriever, and as member of Neon Neon. Has also recorded as a solo artist, starting with 2005's all-Welsh Yr Atal Genhediaeth album, and collaborated with the likes of Mogwai, Danger Mouse, Gorillaz, and Tony Da Gatorra
July 18, 1969 ~ Drummer, mandolinist Tony Leone, full name Anthony Leone, born in New Britain, Connecticut, USA ~ Best known for his associations with Olabelle and the Chris Robinson Brotherhood. Also worked with the Grateful Dead's Phil Lesh, Anders Osborne, Shooter Jennings, Rickie Lee Jones, Donald Fagen, Phoebe Snow, the Band's keyboardist Garth Hudson, David Bromberg, Keb' Mo, Marshall Crenshaw, Jimmy Vivino, Steve Earle, Allison Moorer, Bruce Springsteen, and the Allman Brothers Band
July 18, 1966 ~ Singer, guitarist, songwriter Bobby Fuller, full name Robert Gaston Fuller, passed away in Los Angeles, California, USA ~ Influenced by Eddie Cochran, the Beatles, Elvis Presley, Little Richard, the Everly Brothers, Dick Dale, and the Ventures. Fuller fronted the Bobby Fuller Four, its only other constant member his brother bassist Randy Fuller, the band known for songs such as Let Her Dance, Love's Made A Fool Of You, and their best known I Fought The Law. Just months after the latter, their breakout hit and to this day considered a quintessential recording of the era, reached top 10 Billboard Hot 100, Fuller was found deceased in his car at a mere age 23. The medical examiner checked both boxes for “accident” and “suicide” adding question marks. Fuller's death remains a mystery to this day ~ Fuller was born in 1942
July 18, 1965 ~ Indie rock, alternative rock singer, guitarist, drummer, engineer, producer Ed Ackerson born in Stillwater, Minnesota, USA ~ Member of the Dig, the 27 Various, Antenna, Polara and BNLX. As a producer or engineer has worked on recordings by the Jayhawks, the Replacements, Soul Asylum, Golden Smog, Wesley Stace, John Strohm, Brian Setzer, the Wallflowers, Rhett Miller and Juliana Hatfield ~ Ackerson passed away in 2019
July 18, 1963 ~ Rock, pop percussionist, pianist, producer, songwriter Hans Eijkenaar born in Schiedam, the Netherlands ~ Worked with Kayak, Candy Dulfer, Robby Valentine, Trijntje Oosterhuis, Rob de Nijs, Hans de Booij, René Froger, Herman Brood, Thijs van Leer, Toots Thielemans, Anouk, Piet Veerman, Hans Dulfer, Ellen ten Damme, Patricia Paay, Gordon, Total Touch, Kane, Wolter Kroes, K-otic, Twarres, Laura Fygi, Edsilia Rombley, and Bastiaan Ragas
July 18, 1962 ~ Percussionist Daniel de los Reyes born in New York, New York, USA ~ Son of Walfredo de los Reyes Sr, brother of Walfredo Reyes Jr. Worked with Earth Wind & Fire, Chicago, the Zac Brown Band, Steve Winwood, Yanni, Philip Bailey, Justo Almario, Gabriela Anders, India Arie, Lindsey Buckingham, Vikki Carr, Cher, Sheena Easton, Gloria Estefan, Lola Falana, David Foster, Aretha Franklin, Josh Groban, Faith Hill, Chris Isaak, Patti LaBelle, Ronnie Laws, John Mayer, Tim McGraw, Sérgio Mendes, Wayne Newton, Stevie Nicks, Don Omar, Donny Osmond, Diana Ross, Lionel Richie, José Luis Rodríguez, Jon Secada, Shakira, and Donna Summer
July 18, 1962 ~ Keyboardist John Hermann born in Oxford, Michigan, USA ~ Influenced by Professor Longhair, Otis Spann, Junior Kimbrough, Othar Turner. Member of Beanland prior to joining jam band Widespread Panic in 1992. Has also worked with the Panic side-project Brute and recorded a number of solo albums starting with Smiling Assassin released in 2001
July 18, 1959 ~ Audrey Hamburg, commonly known as actress, singer Audrey Landers, born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA ~ Best known as an actress, notably inn the role of Afton Cooper on the television series Dallas. Also recorded some dozen albums as a country, country-pop, pop singer since the early-1980s, reaching considerable succes in Germany. Best known for her 1983 single Manuel Goodbye, reaching top 10 in several countries
July 18, 1957 ~ Post-punk, rock guitarist, bassist, keyboardist, percussionist Keith Levene, full name Julian Keith Levene, born in London, UK ~ Co-founded the Clash yet departed the band before they began recording. Co-wrote What's My Name, featured on the band's eponymous The Clash debut album. Co-founded Public Image Ltd with Johnny Rotten, remaining with the band through 1983. Levene has also worked with the Flowers Of Romance, Cowboys International, Pigface, and recorded as a solo artist ~ Levene passed away in 2022
July 18, 1956 ~ Jazz double bassist Hein van de Geyn born in Schijndel, the Netherlands ~ Leader and sideman. Worked with Paulien van Schaik, Baseline, Toots Thielemans, Chet Baker, Lee Konitz, Tal Farlow, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Philip Catherine, Enrico Pieranunzi, Kenny Wheeler, and Bert van den Brink. Served as producer for Jasper van 't Hof, Harmen Fraanje, Rick Margitza, Clark Terry and Denise Jannah
July 18, 1956 ~ Violet Mary Tipton, commonly known as singer, actress Violet Loraine, passed away in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK ~ Rose to fame portraying the female lead role of Emma in the 1916 musical revue The Bing Boys Are Here opposite George Robey. The pair's duet hit If You Were The Only Girl (In The World) would become a signature song of the era and over time endure as a pop standard ~ Tipton was born in 1886
July 18, 1955 ~ Drummer Terry Chambers, full name Terry Peter Chambers, born in Swindon, UK ~ Best known as member of XTC from 1972 through 1982, present on the band's best known including Making Plans For Nigel, Sgt Rock (Is Going To Help Me) and Senses Working Overtime. Has subsequently worked with TC&I, Dragon, and October Rage
July 18, 1954 ~ Latin jazz percussionist, bandleader Ralph Irizarry born in Harlem, New York, USA ~ Has collaborated with artists such as Harry Belafonte, Celia Cruz, Paquito d'Rivera, Juan Luis Guerra, Paul Simon, and Talking Heads-frontman David Byrne. Irizarry also notably appeared in the musical drama film The Mambo Kings released in 1992 ~ Irizarry passed away in 2021
July 18, 1952 ~ Violinist, pianist Alfred Wittenberg passed away in Shanghai, China ~ Fled Nazi Germany prior to World War II, eventually settling in America. Has worked with the Staatskapelle Berlin, Frederic Lamond, Anton Hekking, Artur Schnabel, and Heinrich Grünfeld ~ Wittenberg was born in 1880
July 18, 1949 ~ Guitarist, singer Wally Bryson born in Gastonia, North Carolina, USA ~ Member of 1960s outfit the Choir. The band would evolve into the Raspberries by the turn of the decade. Co-wrote several of the band's songs, often with bandmate Eric Carmen, including Come Around And See Me, With You In My Life, I Saw The Light, Don't Want To Say Goodbye, and their best known the Billboard Hot 100 top 10 hit Go All The Way. Member of mid-1970s supergroup Fotomaker, known for their eponymous Fotomaker which is considered a classic example of 1970s power pop.
July 18, 1947 ~ Country, rock & roll singer Linda Gail Lewis born in Ferriday, Louisiana, USA ~ Debuted as a solo artist with her The Two Sides Of Linda Gail Lewis album in 1969. Best known for Don't Let Me Cross Over, a duet with her brother Jerry Lee Lewis reaching top 10 on the Billboard Country charts in 1969. Has also worked with Stephen Ackles and with Van Morrison
July 18, 1946 ~ Singer Bing Crosby records You Keep Coming Back Like A Song ~ Written by Irving Berlin for the 1946 Blue Skies film and soundtrack album. Would be a top 20 hit for Crosby, trailing behind renditions by Jo Stafford and Dinah Shore, the latter reaching No.5 on the pop charts
July 18, 1946 ~ Rock guitarist Ray Fenwick, full name Raymond John Fenwick, born in Romford, UK ~ Member of the Syndicats, joining the band in 1964 replacing future Yes-guitarist Steve Howe. Member of Dutch outfit the Tee Set. Member of the Spencer Davis Group from 1967 through 1969. Member of Fancy, known for the surprise hits Wild Thing and Touch Me. Also notably worked with Ian Gillan, Jon Lord, and with Bo Diddley on the latter's The London Bo Diddley Sessions album ~ Fenwick passed away in 2022
July 18, 1945 ~ Owen Castleman, commonly known as singer, guitarist, songwriter Boomer Castleman, born in Texas, USA ~ As a solo artist known for the 1975 single Judy Mae. Toured with John Denver before Denver adopted the Denver monniker. Co-founded the Survivors with Michael Nesmith. Co-founded Lewis & Clarke Expedition with John London and Michael Martin Murphey. Wrote or co-wrote, often with Murphey, songs recorded by the Monkees (What Am I Doing Hangin' Around), Royal Guardsmen (The Airplane Song (My Airplane)), George Hamilton IV (West Texas Highway), Lyle Lovett, Ray Wylie Hubbard, and by Rusty Wier (Texas Morning). Backed Tammy Wynette, Linda Ronstadt, Kenny Rogers, George Jones, and Roy Clark ~ Castleman passed away in 2015
July 18, 1943 ~ Daniel Cox Jr, commonly known as folk singer, songwriter Danny Cox, born in Cincinnati, Ohio, USA ~ Recorded over half a dozen albums since the early 1960s, most notably his best known Feel So Good released in 1974. Cox would enjoy regional popularity as well as on the hootennany circuit, and has guested on recordings by Brewer & Shipley and Ozark Mountain Daredevils. Cox is also well known for co-writing and starring in the 2012 musical play Fair Ball, a musical play addressing racial segregation by telling of the history and courage of baseball players playing in the Negro leagues of baseball. In his youth, Cox sang in a church choir with Rudolph Isley, co-founding member of the Isley Brothers ~ Cox passed away in 2025
July 18, 1941 ~ Franz Reuther, commonly known as singer, songwriter, producer Frank Farian, born in Kirn, Germany ~ Prior to his career in music, Farian trained as a cook. Performed and recorded as a singer from the late-1960s through the mid-1970s, before becoming one of the most prolific and successful producers to come out of Germany. Acts founded, managed, produced by Farian have sold over 850 million records and earned some 800 gold and platinum certifications. Best known for founding 1970s disco group Boney M, with whom he enjoyed popularity especially in Europe with disco hits such as Daddy Cool, Ma Baker, Rivers Of Babylon, and Rasputin, and for founding Milli Vanilli, known for the late-1980s Billboard Hot 100 No.1 hits Baby Don't Forget My Number, Blame It On The Rain, and Girl I'm Gonna Miss You. Other notable acts he was involved with include Le Click, La Bouche, No Mercy, Eruption, and the Far Corporation ~ Reuther passed away in 2024
July 18, 1941 ~ Lonnie McIntosh, commonly known as rock, blues-rock, blue-eyed soul, country, gospel, rockabilly guitarist, singer Lonnie Mack, born in West Harrison, Indiana, USA ~ Influenced by Merle Travis, Les Paul, T-Bone Walker, Ray Charles, and Martha Carson. Acclaimed for his 1963 The Wham Of That Memphis Man album, considered a landmark album influential on blue-eyed soul and rock guitar. Over the decades has faded in and out of the spotlight due to his constant switching between genres. Cited as influence by artists as diverse as Stevie Ray Vaughan, Jeff Beck, Ray Benson, Bootsy Collins, Wayne Perkins, Eric Clapton, Duane Allman, Jimi Hendrix, Keith Richards, Jimmy Page, Danny Gatton. Has opened for the Doors and Crosby Stills & Nash. Sessioned for James Brown, Freddie King, Joe Simon, Albert Washington, Dobie Gray, Ronnie Hawkins, and artist-charmaines] ~ McIntosh passed away in 2016
July 18, 1941 ~ R&B singer Martha Reeves, full name Martha Rose Reeves born in Eufala, Alabama, USA ~ Lead singer of Martha & the Vandellas after, known for songs such as Heat Wave, Quicksand, Dancing In the Street, Nowhere To Run, I'm Ready For Love, Jimmy Mack
July 18, 1941 ~ Jazz saxophonist Pete Yellin, full name Peter Michael Yellin, born in New York, New York, USA ~ Recorded about half a dozen albums as a leader, specifically noted for It's The Right Thing released in 1973. Inspired to take up the saxophone in the late-1950s after hearing Art Pepper. During the 1960s and early-1970s backed the likes of Chick Corea, Lionel Hampton, Buddy Rich, Tito Puente, and notably Joe Henderson. Other notable associations include Mario Bauzá, Charles Earland, Maynard Ferguson, George Benson, Eddie Palmieri, and Bob Mintzer ~ Yellin passed away in 2016
July 18, 1940 ~ John Wilson, commonly known as R&B, doo-wop singer John Bootsie Wilson, born ~ Bass singer for doo-wop outfit the Silhouettes, known best for their 1957 hit Get A Job. Originally issued as the B-side to I Am Lonely, the A-side re-release would go on to sell a million copies and be the group's only hit ~ Wilson passed away in 2009
July 18, 1940 ~ Andrew Alexander Terry, commonly known as saxophonist, musical director, arranger, songwriter, producer Mike Terry, born in Hempstead, Texas, USA ~ Member of the Funk Brothers, Motown's in-house band, playing on numerous hits from 1960 through 1967 including tracks by the Miracles, Mary Wells, the Four Tops, Edwin Starr, and the Marvelettes. Terry is especially noted for his saxophone solos on Heat Wave by Martha & the Vandellas and Where Did Our Love Go by the Supremes ~ Terry passed away in 2008
July 18, 1939 ~ Dion Francis DiMucci, mononymously known as pop singer, songwriter Dion born in the Bronx, New York, USA ~ Rose to prominence as teen idol in the 1950s with the Belmonts. Would go on to a successful solo career, best known for a string of hits through the mid-1960s. Well known songs include Runaround Sue, The Wanderer, Lovers Who Wander, Little Diane, Ruby Baby, Donna The Prima Donna
July 18, 1938 ~ Free jazz bassist, double bassist Buschi Niebergall born in Marburg, Germany ~ Co-founding member of the Globe Unity Orchestra, with whom he recorded over half a dozen albums including the acclaimed Globe Unity 67 & 70 and Globe Unity '74. Also closely associated with Albert Mangelsdorff and Peter Brötzmann. Other notable associations include Gunter Hampel, Manfred Schoof, John Tchicai, Gerd Dudek, and Don Cherry ~ Niebergall passed away in 1990
July 18, 1938 ~ Saxophonist Dudu Pukwana, full name Mtuhutuzeli Dudu Pukwana, born in Port Elizabeth, South Africa ~ Influenced by Nikele Moyake, Charlie Parker, and King Curtis. Member of the Blue Notes, member of Brotherhood Of Breath, recording over half a dozen albums with each. Recorded about a dozen albums as a leader, including the acclaimed In The Townships released in 1974. Pukwana has also appeared on albums by Assagai, Mick Softley, Mike Heron, Hugh Masekela (Home Is Where The Music Is), Jabula, Toots & the Maytals (Reggae Got Soul), Johnny Dyani, George Fenton, and Gary Windo ~ Pukwana passed away in 1990
July 18, 1930 ~ Samuel T Lawmaster, commonly known as rockabilly, country singer, songwriter Sammy Masters, born in Sasakwa, Oklahoma, USA ~ Somewhat overlooked singer. As a songwriter best known for Turn The Cards Slowly, a minor hit for Patsy Cline, and for Who Can I Count On, recorded by Bobby Darin as well as by Wayne Newton ~ Lawmaster passed away in 2013
July 18, 1929 ~ Jalacy Hawkins, commonly known as singer, pianist, guitarist, saxophonist Screamin' Jay Hawkins, born in Cleveland, Ohio, USA ~ Famed for his stage presence and operatic vocal delivery. Best known for his 1956 I Put A Spell On You single, originally intended as a refined blues ballad. Despite being banned from the radio for its outrageous “cannibalistic” style, it would sell over a million copies. The success prompted Hawkins to develop a ghoulish stage persona, delivering wildly theatrical stage performances which included the use of macabre props, predating shock rockers such as Alice Cooper, Screaming Lord Sutch, Ozzy Osbourne, and Marilyn Manson. On how I Put A Spell On You changed it all, Hawkins later remarked: “Before, I was just a normal blues singer. I was just Jay Hawkins. It all sort of just fell in place. I found out I could do more destroying a song and screaming it to death.” ~ Hawkins passed away in 2000
July 18, 1928 ~ Jazz trombonist Carl Fontana, full name Carl Charles Fontana, born in Monroe, Louisiana, USA ~ First gained attention in the early-1950s, initially hired by Woody Herman to fill in for Urbie Green but kept on after Green's return. Would go on to work with Lionel Hampton, Hal McIntyre, Stan Kenton, and Kai Winding. After relocating to Las Vegas, Nevada, by the late-1950s, Fontana spent most of his time performing in house orchestras and lounges, at times backing artists such as Sammy Davis Jr, Tony Bennett, and Wayne Newton. The 1970s saw him playing with Louie Bellson, Bill Watrous, Supersax, and notably with drummer Jake Hanna, co-leading the Hanna-Fontana Band, including on the album Live At The Concord album. Fontana only recorded sporadically as a leader, and is noted most for his 1998 Live At Capozzoli's album ~ Fontana passed away in 2003
July 18, 1924 ~ R&B, doo-wop singer Earl T Beal born in Donora, Pennsylvania, USA ~ Baritone singer for doo-wop outfit the Silhouettes, known best for their 1957 hit Get A Job. Originally issued as the B-side to I Am Lonely, the A-side re-release would go on to sell a million copies and be the group's only hit ~ Beal passed away in 2001
July 18, 1917 ~ Comedian, singer, guitarist Henri Salvador born in Cayenne, French Guyana ~ Recorded the first French rock & roll songs in 1957 under the moniker Henry Cording, such as Rock'n Roll Mops, Rock Hoquet Va T'Faire Cuire Un Oeuf and Dis-moi Qu'tu M'Aimes Rock, though he would consistently claim he disliked rock & roll. Also known as a TV personality and for a number of 1960s French language adaptations of pop songs including Zorro Est Arrivé and Mais Non Mais Non ~ Salvador passed away in 2008
July 18, 1913 ~ Big band bandleader, clarinetist, saxophonist Nat Temple, full name Nathan Temple, born in London, UK ~ Modeled his playing after Benny Goodman. Rose to fame as a member of Harry Roy's orchestra during the 1930s, including on the 1933 hit Tiger Rag. Following a stint in the British Army during World War II, Temple founded his own orchestra with whom he notably launched the career of vocalist Frankie Vaughan, and backed famed American composer Hoagy Carmichael on his British tour. Temple would quickly become a regular presence on the BBC, providing musical entertainment for various comedy shows, and continued to lead various configurations of his group well into the 1990s. Over the course of his lengthy career Temple has worked with artists such as Benny Lee, Julie Andrews, Eartha Kitt, Petula Clark, and Mel Tormé ~ Temple passed away in 2008
July 18, 1910 ~ Louis Ferdinand Busch, commonly known as pianist, producer, songwriter Joe Fingers Carr, born in Louisville, Kentucky, USA ~ Dropped out of school at age 16 to pursue a career as a musician. After a few years of touring would return to school, this time the Cincinnati Music Conservatory, to learn more about music theory. A&R executive at Capitol Records by the late-1940s. Has worked with Henry Busse, Clyde McCoy, George Olson, Hal Kemp, and Milton Delugg. As a solo artist, Carr is best known for 1950s songs such as Portuguese Washerwoman, Sam's Song, Zambezi, and Rollercoaster ~ Busch passed away in 1979
July 18, 1909 ~ Ivory Jones, commonly known as singer, guitarist, songwriter Deek Watson, born in Mounds, Illinois, USA ~ Member of the Ink Spots from 1934 through 1944, present on hits such as If I Didn't Care, Address Unknown, Maybe, We Three (My Echo My Shadow & Me) and Don't Get Around Much Anymore ~ Jones passed away in 1969
July 18, 1906 ~ Lawrence Arthur Webb, commonly known as jazz drummer, bandleader Speed Webb, born in Peru, Indiana, USA ~ Played violin and mellotron before switching to drums. Co-founded and led the Hoosier Melody Lads, with whom he enjoyed popularity from the late-1920s through the 1930s, at times employing noted sidemen such as Art Tatum, Teddy Buckner, Teddy Wilson, Roy Eldridge, Eli Robinson, and Reunald Jones Sr. Webb and his band appeared in several films, including Sins Of The Fathers, Riley The Cop, and His Captive Woman. Other than these soundtracks, no recordings of Webb and his band remained available, which considered his popularity, acclaim and the quality of his sideman is widely regarded a loss to jazz. Webb retired from music by the late-1930s, resuming his studies in enbalming and eventually building a chain of funeral parlours ~ Webb passed away in 1994