July 6, 2024 ~ Rock singer, keyboardist, guitarist Joe Egan, full name Joseph Egan, passed away ~ Co-founded Stealers Wheel with Gerry Rafferty, the pair also co-writing the band's biggest hit Stuck In The Middle With You which reached top 10 on both sides of the Atlantic in 1973. Subsequently, the band scored two more smaller hits, Everything Will Turn Out Fine and most notably the Egan-penned Billboard Hot 100 top 30 hit Star. The band recorded three albums before disbanding by the mid-1970s over stagnating sales and artistic differences. Egan would release two solo albums through the end of the decade which, though warmly received would sell poorly. His bandmate Rafferty would go on to score a massive hit with Baker Street. Egan retired from music by the 1990s ~ Egan was born in 1946
July 6, 2024 ~ Giuseppe Chierchia, commonly known as pop, Italo disco singer Pino D'Angiò, passed away in Rome, Italy ~ Best known for his 1981 single Ma Quale Idea, a hit across continental Europe selling over 2 million copies and reaching the top 10 in Switzerland, Belgium, and the Netherlands, and the No.1 spot in Spain. It has been suggested Chierchia took the bassline off McFadden & Whitehead's Ain't No Stoppin' Us Now, however, he has adamantly maintained he wrote the song independently with bassist Stefano Cerri. Chierchia would continue to record well into the 2000s, well known songs include Un Concerto Da Strapazzo, Fammi Un Panino, and Genoveffa. In 1990, Chierchia teamed up with Bruno Sanchioni under the moniker Age Of Love, known for their hit of the same name, considered one of the first international trance hits. In 2024, a few months before his death, Chierchia guested on punk pop outfit Bnkr44's Ma Che Idea, a remake of his signature song Ma Quale Idea ~ Chierchia was born in 1952
July 6, 2023 ~ Engineer, producer Caleb Southern, full name Caleb August Southern, passed away in Atlanta, Georgia, USA ~ Best known for his association with Ben Folds Five, serving as producer for the albums Ben Folds Five, Whatever And Ever Amen, and The Unauthorized Biography Of Reinhold Messner. Has also worked, either as engineer or producer, with acts such as Metal Flake Mother, Antiseen, Dillon Fence, Flat Duo Jets, Jennyandkind, the Archers of Loaf (Icky Mette), Geezer Lake, Superchunk, Capsize 7, Zen Frisbee, Tom Freund, and Shark Quest ~ Southern was born in 1969
July 6, 2023 ~ Bernard Nierow, commonly known as pianist, conductor Peter Nero, passed away in Eustis, Florida, USA ~ Active since the mid-1950s. Has recorded over 50 albums. Considered one of the premier interpreters of George Gershwin. Founded the Philly Pops, serving as its director from 1979 through 2013. Also directed the Florida Philharmonic Orchestra during the 1990s ~ Nierow was born in 1934
July 6, 2020 ~ Singer, songwriter Charlie Daniels, full name Charles Edward Daniels, passed away in Nashville, Tennessee, USA ~ Fronts Charlie Daniels Band, known for their international hit The Devil Went To Georgia. Turned conservative, right-wing America's darling somewhere in the 1970s. Actually hung with the Nashville hippy crowd the previous decade. Session guitarist, bassist, backing singer on recordings by Bob Dylan and by Leonard Cohen. Co-wrote It Hurts Me, recorded by Elvis Presley. Also worked with the Marshall Tucker Band, Hank Williams Jr, Mark O'Connor, Bobby Bare, Johnny Cash, Montgomery Gentry, and Aaron Lewis ~ Daniels was born in 1936
July 6, 2020 ~ Jazz drummer Joe Porcaro passed away ~ Father of Toto musicians Jeff Porcaro, Mike Porcaro, Steve Porcaro. Leader and sideman. Has worked with Natalie Cole, Don Ellis, Stan Getz, Freddie Hubbard, Gladys Knight, Madonna, the Monkees, Gerry Mulligan, Pink Floyd, Frank Sinatra, Sarah Vaughan, Rosemary Clooney, Lalo Schifrin, Mike Mainieri, Emitt Rhodes, Louie Bellson, Bonnie Raitt, Glen Campbell, Eric Carmen, Cheryl Lynn, Randy Crawford, Yvonne Elliman, Donna Summer, Sérgio Mendes, Roger Kellaway, Joe Cocker, Diana Krall, Harry Connick Jr, and others ~ Porcaro was born in 1930
July 6, 2019 ~ João Gilberto Prado Pereira, commonly known as guitarist, singer João Gilberto passed away in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil ~ Leading figure in Bossa nova, acclaimed for late-1950s, early-1960s albums such as Chega De Saudade and O Amor O Sorriso E A Flor. Especially known for his collaboration with Antônio Carlos Jobim and Stan Getz on the 1964 Getz/Gilberto album, merging Latin music with jazz, which spawned the hit The Girl From Ipanema featuring Astrud Gilberto ~ Pereira was born in 1931
July 6, 2019 ~ Lyricist, theater director, actor Martin Charnin passed away in White Plains, New York, USA ~ Got his start in entertainment performing as one of the Jets in the original production of West Side Story, playing the role for an estimated 1,000 performances both on Broadway and on the road. Would go on to write music and lyrics for numerous revues, direct and produce nightclubs acts for Dionne Warwick, Nancy Wilson, and Mary Travers, and conceive, produce and direct several TV specials. Wrote The Best Thing You've Ever Done, recorded by Barbra Streisand for her 1974 multi-platinum The Way We Were album. Charnin is also well known for co-writing the musical Annie, which opened on Broadway in 1977 and was later adapted into a film ~ Charnin was born in 1934
July 6, 2018 ~ Vincent Marcellino, commonly known as singer Vince Martin, passed away ~ First recorded with the Tarriers. which also included Erik Darling, Alan Arkin, and Bob Carey. Duetted with Fred Neil in the early-1960s, notably on 1964's Tear Down The Walls playing alongside John Sebastian and Felix Pappalardi. Released his solo debut album. If The Jasmine Don't Get You The Bay Breeze Will, in 1969 ~ Marcellino was born in 1937
July 6, 2017 ~ Melvyn Jones, commonly known as Soul, R&B, blues soul, R&B, blues organist Deacon Jones, passed away in Hollywood, California, USA ~ Co-founded Baby Huey & the Babysitters with Johnny Ross and Baby Huey. Jones left the band after Ramey's death in 1970 and would go on to work with Curtis Mayfield, Freddie King, John Lee Hooker, Gregg Allman, Elvin Bishop, Lester Chambers, Albert Collins, Buddy Miles, and others ~ Jones was born in 1943
July 6, 2015 ~ Julio Manuel Acevedo Lanuza, commonly known as singer Julio Angel, passed away in Miami, Florida, USA ~ Emerged in the 1960s, initially as frontman of the teen group Julito & the Latin Lads, to become one of the nueva olas teen idols in Puerto Rico. Would go on to sing with visiting American artists such as Neil Sedaka and Frankie Avalon. Scored a hit with the doo-wop song Nunca and subsequently with El Diamante, the latter making him a household name across Latin America. Internationally, Angel is also well known for the hit Tan Bonita Como Tu ~ Acevedo was born in 1945
July 6, 2015 ~ Jazz pianist, composer Masabumi Kikuchi passed away in New York, New York ~ Leader and sideman. Primarily a jazz pianist, though drew from new music, funk, and dub and collaborated with artist as far removed from jazz as house and dance. Especially acclaimed for the albums Tethered Moon (First Meeting), a collaborative effort with Paul Motian and Gary Peacock, and for Sunrise and Black Orpheus. Has worked with Sadao Watanabe, Oliver Nelson, Gil Evans, Terumasa Hino, Pee Wee Ellis, Johnny Hartman, Ron Trent (Mix The Vibe (Ron Trent Urban-Afro Blues)), and Bill Brewster ~ Kikuchi was born in 1939
July 6, 2010 ~ Singer, producer, label executive Harvey Fuqua passed away in Detroit, Michigan, USA ~ Member of the Marquees. Member of the Moonglows. Distributed the first Motown hit Barrett Strong's Money (That's What I Want). Founded Anna Records which would sign the Spinners, Junior Walker, and Shorty Long. Head of Motown's Artist Development, left in 1971. Discovered and produced acts such as the Weather Girls and Sylvester (Dance (Disco Heat), You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real)). Produced Marvin Gaye's 1982 Midnight Love album ~ Fuqua was born in 1929
July 6, 2008 ~ Jazz drummer Bobby Durham passed away in Genoa, Italy ~ Active since his mid-teens, starting with the Orioles at age 16. Following a stint in the Army, where he played in a military band, Durham would become an in-demand accompanist and session drummer, a favorite of producer Norman Granz. Best known for his associations with pianist Oscar Peterson, singer Ella Fitzgerald, and organists Charles Earland and Shirley Scott. After relocating to New York by the early-1960s, his career took off, employed by the likes of Wild Bill Davis, Lionel Hampton, Count Basie, Slide Hampton, Grant Green, Harry Sweets Edison, Tommy Flanagan, Jimmy Rowles, and Duke Ellington. Outside of jazz, Durham has appeared on recordings by James Brown, Ray Charles, and Marvin Gaye. Later on in his career, Durham has recorded as a leader starting with Bobby Durham Trio released in 1979, and several more in the 2000s, the late-1990s boom of acid jazz renewing an interest in Durham's work ~ Durham was born in 1937
July 6, 2004 ~ Singer Syreeta Wright passed away in Los Angeles, California, USA ~ Started out at Motown as demo and backup singer including for the Supremes, the Spinners, and Stevie Wonder whom she eventually married. The couple would work on Wonder's Where I'm Coming From album, with Wright doing arranging, composing, notably If You Really Love Me, and backing vocals. As a solo artist Wright has been releasing albums since the early-1970s. Perhaps best known for her duet With You I'm Born Again with Billy Preston ~ Wright was born in 1946
July 6, 2003 ~ Clyde Battin, commonly known as country rock, folk rock singer, bassist Skip Battin, passed away in Silverton, Oregon, USA ~ Best known as member of the Byrds, with whom he recorded three albums from 1970 through 1973. Prior to his tenure with the Byrds, Battin formed the duo Skip & Flip with Gary S Paxton, known for the singles It Was I and Cherry Pie, both of which reached top 20 Billboard Hot 100. Battin has released several solo albums, starting with 1972's Skip, and has recorded with Gene Vincent, the New Riders Of The Purple Sage, the Flying Burrito Brothers, Pacific Steel Co, Sneaky Pete Kleinow (Sneaky Pete), Warren Zevon, and Kim Fowley ~ Battin was born in 1934
July 6, 2002 ~ Jazz pianist Ray Foxley, full name Raymond Geoffrey Foxley, passed away in London, UK ~ Worked with the Gutbucket Six, the Gully Low Stompers, the Levee Ramblers, Mick Mulligan, Chris Barber, Ken Colyer, Rod Mason, Ken Ingram, and others ~ Foxley was born in 1928
July 6, 2000 ~ Jazz saxophonist Akira Miyazawa passed away in Tokyo, Japan, Japan ~ Worked extensively with Toshiko Akiyoshi in the 1950s and 1960s. Has also collaborated with artists such as Yasuo Arakawa, Hampton Hawes, Hidehiko Matsumoto, Helen Merrill, Shotaro Moriyasu, Masahiko Satoh, Mal Waldron, Sadao Watanabe, and Masahiko Togashi ~ Miyazawa was born in 1927
July 6, 1993 ~ Chaine St Aubin Downer Jr, commonly known as rapper, producer, songwriter CJ Fly, born in Brooklyn, New York, USA ~ Influenced by the Notorious BIG, Nas, Jay-Z, A Tribe Called Quest. Founding member of hip-hop collective Pro-Era. Has worked with Wiz Khalifa, A$AP Rocky, Statik Selektah, the Flatbush Zombies, Chance the Rapper, and others. Released his full-length Flytrap solo debut album in 2016
July 6, 1992 ~ Guitarist Paul Hackman, full name Paul Wayne Hackman, passed away in Kamloops, Canada ~ Member of hard rock outfit Helix from 1976 until his death in 1992. Notably present on the band's Rock You and Deep Cuts The Knife, the latter written by Hackman and Bob Halligan Jr ~ Hackman was born in 1953
July 6, 1987 ~ Indie pop, indie rock, garage punk singer, bassist, guitarist, pianist, songwriter Kate Nash, full name Kate Marie Nash, born in Harrow, UK ~ Released her Made Of Bricks debut album in 2007, which included the UK top 10 hit Foundations. Has collaborated with Ironik, Kano, Lethal Bizzle, FIDLAR, Watsky, Holychild, and others
July 6, 1985 ~ Wanita Denise Woodgett, commonly known as singer, dancer, actress D Woods, born in Anaheim, California, USA ~ Best known as a member of Danity Kane, known for singles such as Show Stopper, Ride For You and Damaged
July 6, 1985 ~ Pop singer Maria Arredondo, full name Maria Sodal Arredondo, born in Vennesia, Norway ~ Debuted in 2003 with the eponymous Maria Arredondo album. In 2005 several tracks of Arredondo's Christmas album Min Jul were produced by Deep Purple's Jon Lord. Arredondo has been compared to artists such as M2M, Natalie Imbruglia, Michelle Branch, Jewel, and the Cranberries
July 6, 1984 ~ Hard rock, heavy metal, pop rock singer, actress Lauren Harris born in Essex, UK ~ Daughter of Iron Maiden-bassist Steve Harris. Cites Belinda Carlisle, Alanis Morissette, Heart, Def Leppard, and the Foo Fighters as influences. Frontwoman and eponym of the Lauren Harris Band, with whom she recorded the albums Calm Before The Storm and Your Turn, and subsequently frontwoman of Six Hour Sundown in the early-2010s. Harris has toured with her father's band as a support act, as well as opened for the likes of Alice Cooper, Within Temptation, and Mötley Crüe. Harris has also ventured into acting, completing her acting studies in 2016 with a postgraduate degree from the Oxford School of Drama, Wootton, the UK, and has since performed in various stage productions
July 6, 1982 ~ R&B, soul singer Abrim Tilmon passed away ~ Member of the Detroit Emeralds, known for songs such Show Time, Do Me Right, You Want It You Got It, Baby Let Me Take You In My Arms, and Feel The Need ~ Tilmon was born in 1945
July 6, 1982 ~ Singer, guitarist Petter Vagån born in Brønnøysund, Norway ~ Brother ofd bassist Ole Morten Vågan. Best known as frontman of the Fjords. Has also worked with Eyewaterlillies, Peloton, Erik Nylander, Tore Brunborg, Kirsti Huke, and others
July 6, 1982 ~ Producer, engineer Shawn Everett born in Bragg Creek, Canada ~ Served as engineer, mixer for acts such as Simon Dawes, Natalie Cole, Everlast, Pete Yorn, Bruce Hornsby, Ozomatli, kd Lang, Charlie Winston, John Legend, Perfume Genius, Vampire Weekend, Haim, Kacey Musgraves and the Yeah Yeah Yeahs. Notable production include Weezer, Har Mar Superstar, Julian Casablancas, Houndmouth, Jenny Lewis, the Killers, the War On Drugs, Adele, Belle & Sebastian, and others
July 6, 1980 ~ Rapper Joell Ortiz, full name Joell Christopher Ortiz, born in Brooklyn, New York, USA ~ Released his full-length debut album, The Brick (Bodega Chronicles), in 2007 and has recorded steadily since. Has collaborated with Showbiz, the Alchemist, Domingo, Lil' Fame, Big Daddy Kane, Styles P, Big Noyd, Akon, Ras Kass, Pharoahe Monch, BoB, Joe Budden, Crooked I, Maino, Slaughterhouse, Illmind, Apollo Brown, and others
July 6, 1979 ~ Singer, songwriter Nic Cester, full name Nichola John Cester, born in Melbourne, Australia ~ Frontman of Australian 1990s. 2000s rock band Jet, which also includes his brother Chris Cester, known for songs such as Are You Gonna Be My Girl, Look What You've Done, Cold Hard Bitch and Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is. Also co-founded supergroup the Wrights and worked with Muse and the Jaded Hearts Club
July 6, 1979 ~ Songwriter, producer, singer Van McCoy, full name Van Allen Clinton McCoy, passed away in Englewood, New Jersey, USA ~ As a solo artist best known for his 1975 disco hit The Hustle. Mostly active behind the scenes, producing and writing songs for artists such as Gladys Knight (Giving Up), the Stylistics, Betty Everett (Getting Mighty Crowded), Aretha Franklin, Erma Franklin, Peaches & Herb, Sandi Sheldon, Jackie Wilson (I Get The Sweetest Feeling), Lesley Gore, Stacy Lattisaw, Presidents, Chris Bartley, Ruby & the Romantics (When You're Young And In Love), Melba Moore, and others ~ McCoy was born in 1940
July 6, 1975 ~ Curtis James Jackson III, commonly known as rapper, producer 50 Cent, born in Queens, New York, USA ~ Former crack dealer, at age 12, escaped the ghetto to become one of raps'best-selling artists. Discovered by Eminem who, along with Dr Dre released his break-out album 2003's Get Rich Or Die Tryin'. Known for songs such as In Da Club, Candy Shop, Ayo Technology and others. De facto leads G-Unit which also included Tony Yayo and the Game. Has collaborated with Onyx, Lil' Kim, Mobb Deep, Ne-Yo, Justin Timberlake, Timbaland, Olivia, Ciara, Shawty Lo, Mase, and 2 Chainz
July 6, 1973 ~ Orchestral conductor, composer Otto Klemperer, full name Otto Nossan Klemperer, passed away in Zurich, Switzerland ~ Regarded as one of the premier conductors of his day. Of Jewish descent fled Nazi Germany in the 1930s. Has Worked with the Strasbourg Opera, the Cologne Opera, the Kroll Opera and the Los Angeles Philharmonic ~ Klemperer was born in 1885
July 6, 1973 ~ Alternative rock, indie rock singer, guitarist, songwriter Paul Banks, full name Paul Adrian Banks, born in York, UK ~ Lead guitarist of Shed Seven from 1993 through 1999. Co-wrote several of the band's bestr-known including Chasing Rainbows, Going For Gold and She Left Me On Friday, Has also worked with the Rising, Albion, and others
July 6, 1971 ~ Trumpeter, singer Louis Armstrong passed away in New York, New York, USA ~ Among the most influential figures in jazz. Known for songs such as What A Wonderful World, Ain't Misbehaving, You Rascal You, Stomping At The Savoy, About Time, and Hello Dolly. Worked with King Oliver, the Creole Jazz Band, Kid Ory, Fletcher Henderson, Clarence Williams, Sidney Bechet, Alberta Hunter, Ma Rainey, Bessie Smith, Johnny Dodds, Erskine Tate, Lil' Armstrong, Lionel Hampton, Jack Teagarden, Earl Hines, Barney Bigard, Edmond Hall, Trummy Young, Arvell Shaw, Billy Kyle, Marty Napoleon, Big Sid Catlett, Cozy Cole, Tyree Glenn, Barrett Deems, Mort Herbert, Joe Darensbourg, Eddie Shu, Danny Barcelona, and others ~ Armstrong was born in 1901
July 6, 1970 ~ Metal, hard rock singer David Readman born in Burnley, UK ~ Best known as member of hard rock band Pink Cream 69 and of progressive metal band Adagio. Has also recorded as a solo artist and collaborated with the likes of the Voodoo Circle, Room Experience, Almanac, Tank, Pendulum Of Fortune, Misha Calvin, DC Cooper, Silent Force, Missa Mercuria, Place Vendome, Thomas Zwijssen, Luca Turilli, and others
July 6, 1970 ~ Jason Richard Hunter, commonly known as rapper Inspectah Deck, born in New York, New York, USA ~ Best known as member of the Wu-Tang Clan. Co-wrote several of the band's well known tracks such as CREAM, Protect Ya Neck, Da Mystery Of Chessboxin' and Triumph. Appeared on several of his bandmates' solo albums, notably Method Man's Tical, Raekwon's Only Built 4 Linx and Ghostface Killah's Ironman. Has also recorded as a solo artist, starting with 1999's Uncontrolled Substance, and collaborated with Tupac Shakur, Czarface, Big Pun, DJ Premier, Pete Rock, Kool G Rap, Sheek Louch, and others
July 6, 1970 ~ Christian rock singer, guitarist Martin Smith, full naem Martin James Smith, born in Woodford, UK ~ Frontman of Christian rock band Delirious, known for songs such as Deeper, Promise, See The Star and History Maker. Would resume his solo career after the band disbanded in 2009. Has collaborated with Amy Grant, Hillsong, André Valadão, Stu G, Matt Redman, Michael W Smith, Jars Of Clay, Israel Houghton, and others
July 6, 1970 ~ Roger Marcel Cicero Ciceu, commonly known as jazz and pop singer Roger Cicero, born in Berlin, West Germany ~ Son of jazz pianist Eugen Cicero, with whom he also worked. Opened for Helen Vita at age 11. Debuted on TV aged 16 teaming up with the RIAS Tanzorkester under the direction of Horst Jankowski. Also worked with de Jazzkantine, Soulounge, Julia Hülsmann, and others. Represented Germany at 2007's edition of Eurovision Songfestival, ranking 19th with the song Frauen Regiern Die Welt ~ Ciceu passed away in 2016
July 6, 1967 ~ Heather Allison Frith, commonly known as alternative rock, indie rock, folk rock, pop rock singer, guitarist, songwriter Heather Nova, born in Bermuda ~ Sister of reggae singer Mishka. Praised for her dreamy melodies and esoteric vocals, reminiscent of her childhood idol Kate Bush. Debuted in 1993 with the critically acclaimed Glow Stars album and broke through with her sophomore Oyster album the following year. Best known for songs such as Walk This World, London Rain (Nothing Heals Me Like You Do) and I'm No Angel. Nova has recorded consistently since, and remains popular across continental Europe where she enjoys a devoted fanbase
July 6, 1965 ~ Jazz saxophonist Yuri Honing born in Hilversum, the Netherlands ~ Active since the mid-1990s with some dozen albums to his name as a leader or co-leader, usually in smaller ensembles such as trios or quartets. Especially acclaimed for the 2001 Seven album, featuring pianist Paul Bley, double bassist Gary Peacock and drummer Paul Motian. Also noted for the 1998 collaborative Playing album with avant-garde, free jazz icon Misha Mengelberg and the 2000 Lively album with Mengelberg and cellist Ernst Reijseger. Other notable associations include Michiel Borstlap, Tony Overwater, Rima Khcheich, and Erik Bosgraaf
July 6, 1964 ~ Jazz, jazz fusion trumpeter, flugelhornist Ken Watters, full name Kenneth Waters, born ~ Influenced by Tim Hagans and Woody Shaw. Brother of trombonist Harry Watters, with whom he has collaborated on several albums starting with Brothers released in 1999. Also specifically noted for the 2010 collaborative Riyel album with Andre Atkins and Yves Abel. An in-demand sideman, particularly on the New York jazz scene, Watters has also appeared on albums by Tabou Combo, Spoonful James, Clarence Carter, Sophia Darcell, Natalie Cole, Danny Brooks, Bonnie Bramlett, and Willie Hightower
July 6, 1963 ~ Stuart David Garrard, commonly known as alternative rock, Christian rock guitarist, singer Stu G, born ~ Lead guitarist of Delirious, for whom he wrote or co-wrote songs such as Come Like You Promise, Metamorphis and Majesty (Here I Am). Has also recorded as a solo artist as well as with Treasure Park and One Sonic Society
July 6, 1963 ~ Indie pop, indie rock guitarist, songwriter Tim Bricheno, full name Timothy John Bricheno, born in Huddersfield, UK ~ Member of bands such as All About Eve, Sisters Of Mercy, XC-NN, Tin Star. Also toured with the Mission
July 6, 1961 ~ Pop, pop rock, soft rock singer, guitarist, keyboardist, percussionist, songwriter Rick Price, full name Rick Allan Price, born in Brisbane, Australia ~ Released his Heaven Knows debut album in 1992 . Known for songs such as Not A Day Goes By and River Of Love. Has collaborated with Tina Arena, Tommy Emmanuel, Mitch Grainger, Jack Jones, Regina Velasquez, and others. As a producer known for his work with Girlfriend and with Dami Im
July 6, 1961 ~ Double bassist Scott LaFaro, full name Rocco Scott LaFaro, passed away in Seneca, New York, USA ~ Despite a relatively short career, cut short by a traffic accident at age 25, one of most influential jazz bassists on par with Charlie Haden and Charles Mingus. Praised for his countermelodic style of accompaniment and his practically unmatched virtuosity. Best known for his association with pianist Bill Evans, including on the highly acclaimed Sunday At The Village Vanguard album recorded live less than two weeks before his death. Has also appeared on albums by Hampton Hawes (For Real), Buddy DeFranco, Victor Feldman (Latinsville), Tony Scott, Booker Little, and Ornette Coleman (Free Jazz) ~ LaFaro was born in 1936
July 6, 1956 ~ Country, pop, rock, gypsy jazz guitarist John Jorgenson, full name John Richard Jorgenson, born in Madison, Wisconsin, USA ~ Member of the Desert Rose Band and the Hellecasters. Best known as guitarist, yet plays several instruments including mandolin, piano, upright bass, clarinet, saxophone. Well over half a dozen albums as a solo artistIn-demand collaborator, has worked with Tommy Emmanuel, the Byrds, Bob Dylan, Bob Seger, Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, Emmylou Harris, Barbra Streisand, Roy Orbison, Patty Loveless, John Prine, Bonnie Raitt, Kenny Chesney, Rodney Crowell, Chad Brock, Lisa Brokop, Brooks & Dunn, Mary Chapin Carpenter, Beth Nielsen Chapman, Peter Frampton, Amy Grant, Highway 101, Elton John, Chris LeDoux, LeAnn Rimes, JD Souther, Trisha Yearwood, Chely Wright, and others
July 6, 1955 ~ Smooth jazz, jazz fusion, pop trumpeter, singer, producer, songwriter Rick Braun born in Allentown, Pennsylvania, USA ~ Influenced by Miles Davis, Lee Morgan, Chet Baker, Clark Terry, Dizzy Gillespie, Herb Alpert. Co-wrote REO Speedwagon's Here With Me. In-demand session musician, worked with Crowded House, Natalie Cole, Glenn Frey, Tom Petty, Sade, Rod Stewart, Tina Turner. Actively recording as a solo artist since the early-1990s. Best known for his 2001 Kisses In The Rain and 2007 R 'n R albums
July 6, 1953 ~ Folk, country folk singer, guitarist, songwriter Nanci Griffith, full name Nanci Caroline Griffith born in Seguin, Texas, USA ~ Actively recording since the late-1970s. Best known for a number of 1990s albums, notably 1993's Other Voices Other Rooms and 1994's Flyer. First to record From A Distance, later popularized by Bette Midler. Similarly, Griffith wrote or co-wrote and first recorded songs later hits for others such as Love At The Five And Dime which was covered by Kathy Mattea and Outbound Plane which would later be one of Suzy Bogguss' biggest hits ~ Griffith passed away in 2021
July 6, 1952 ~ Bassist John Bazz born in Los Angeles, California, USA ~ Along with Phil Alvin the only constant member of roots rock, rock & roll band the Blasters known for songs such as Dark Knight, So Long Baby Goodbye and Long White Cadillac. Has also collaborated with artists such as Charlie Musselwhite, Marc Ford, Mike Eldred, Top Jimmy, Ryan Bingham, Lynwood Slim, and others
July 6, 1950 ~ Jazz drummer, composer Jeff Williams, full name Jeffrey Lawrence Williams, born in Mount Vernon, Ohio, USA ~ Worked with Marc Copland, Lee Konitz, Stan Getz, the Lookout Farm, Richie Beirach, Interplay, the Circadian Rhythms, Left Handed Compliment, Dave Liebman, Paul Bley, Point Blank, and others
July 6, 1949 ~ Drummer Michael Shrieve born in San Francisco, California, USA ~ Best known as member of Santana from 1969 through 1974 appearing on a number of the band's best known albums including the 1970 Abraxas breakthrough album. Has also drummed with Automatic Man, Go, Pat Travers, Klaus Schulze, Hagar Schon Aaronson Shrieve, Steve Roach, Revolution Void, and others
July 6, 1949 ~ Pop, R&B singer Phyllis Hyman, full name Phyllis Linda Hyman, born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA ~ Known for songs such as You Know How To Love Me, Living All Alone, Don't Wanna Change The World. Nominated for a Tony Award for her role in the early-1980s Broadway-production of Sophisticated Ladies, a musical based on the music of Duke Ellington ~ Hyman passed away in 1995
July 6, 1948 ~ Psychedelic rock, progressive rock singer, keyboardist, bassist, guitarist, percussionist, cellist, songwriter Arnaldo Baptista, full nme Arnaldo Dias Baptista, born in São Paulo, Brazil ~ Son of pianist Clarisse Leite. Co-founded pivotal rock band Os Mutantes with his brother Sérgio Dias and Rita Lee, recording about half a dozen albums with the band before departing in 1973. After his departure, Baptista would release a number of solo albums, starting with 1974's Loki, generally regarded his best work. Baptista briefly rejoined Os Mutantes in the mid-2000s
July 6, 1947 ~ Elizabeth Jurist, commonly known as singer, songwriter Libby Titus, born in Woodstock, New York, USA ~ Though as a solo artist Titus never became a household name, she has earned universal critical acclaim, the New York Times once praising her “feeling for style, (and) appealingly sultry insouciance”. Titus has co-written songs with Carly Simon, Burt Bacharach, Dr John, and Donald Fagen, and was married to the latter since 1993. Previously, Titus was romantically involved with the Band's drummer, singer Levon Helm, with whom she has a daughter, the singer Amy Helm. As a songwriter, Titus is perhaps best known for co-penning Love Has No Pride with Eric Kaz, first recorded by Bonnie Raitt in 1972 for her Give It Up album, and since covered by dozens of artists including Linda Ronstadt, Rita Coolidge, and Lynn Anderson. Titus herself has also recorded the song for her 1977 eponymous Libby Titus sophomore album. Admired by peers, Titus is the subject of several tribute songs, including Carly Simon's Libby, and Dr John's Pretty Libby, while Wendy Waldman adresses their friendship in Long Hot Summer Nights, and Donald Fagen sings about their marriage in The Great Pagoda Of Fun. Titus also portrayed several minor roles as an actress ~ Jurist passed away in 2024
July 6, 1945 ~ Folk, kleinkunst singer, guitarist Zjef Vanuytsel, full name Jozef Guillaume Dymphna Vanuytsel, born in Mol, Belgium ~ Considered one of the leading Flemish kleinkunst artists, alongside Wannes van de Velde and Willem Vermandere. Best known for his 1970 debut album Zotte Morgen. Would return to work as an architect in commercially less successful periods ~ Vanuytsel passed away in 2015
July 6, 1944 ~ Fiddler, mandolinist Byron Berline, full name Byron Douglas Berline, born in Caldwell, Kansas, USA ~ Turned down a 1965 invite from Bill Monroe in order to finish his education first, joining Monroe's backing unit the Bluegrass Boys later on. Following his stint with Monroe, Berline would go on to become an in-demand collaborator, especially noted for his role in several pivotal country-rock acts. Berline has recorded over a dozen albums as a solo artist, and appeared on albums by the Dillards, the Flying Burrito Brothers (The Gilded Palace Of Sin), the Rolling Stones (Let It Bleed), the Byrds, the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Gene Clark, Manassas, Bob Dylan, Bill Wyman (Monkey Grip), Gram Parsons, John Denver, Emmylou Harris (Elite Hotel), Lamont Dozier, Hoyt Axton, the Doobie Brothers (Minute By Minute), Rodney Crowell, Elton John, Michael Martin Murphey, T-Bone Burnett, Michelle Shocked, and John McEuen. Berline is also known for founding the Oklahoma International Bluegrass Festival, held annually in Guthrie, Oklahoma, since 1997 ~ Berline passed away in 2021
July 6, 1944 ~ Singer, guitarist, songwriter Ruthann Friedman born in New York, New York, USA ~ Took up the guitar at age eight, inspired by the music of Woody Guthrie, Pete Seeger, and Josh White. Probably best known for penning Windy, a 1967 Billboard Hot 100 No.1 hit for sunshine pop outfit the Association. The song would be recorded by over 50 artists including Floyd Cramer, Astrud Gilberto, Willie Mitchell, Trini López, and Billy Paul. Friedman is also known as a member of Petrus and for her 1970 Constant Companion solo album. Friedman released her original recording of Windy, recorded in 1967 prior to the Association's single, in 2006 on a “lost tapes” compilation album
July 6, 1943 ~ Addie Bradley, commonly known as soul singer, songwriter Jan Bradley, born in Byhalia, Mississippi, USA ~ Auditioned for Curtis Mayfield, who would pen Bradley's We Girls and Mama Didn't Lie singles. Also known for subsequent releases including I'm Over You, Just A Summer Memory, It's Your Way and These Tears. Bradley retired from music by the early-1970s
July 6, 1942 ~ Izora Rhodes, commonly known as singer Izora Armstead, born in Houston, Texas, USA ~ Formed the duo Two Tons Of Fun with Martha Wash. The duo originally sang backup for Sylvester, but became better known as the Weather Girls, renaming themselves after landing a deal with Fantasy Records. Despite scoring several hits on the Billboard Dance charts, Earth Can Be Just Like Heaven, I Got The Feeling, and It's Raining Men all reaching top 10, only the latter crossed over to the all-genre Billboard Hot 100, where it peaked at No.46 in 1983. It's Raining Men would do especially well in Europe, reaching No.2 in the UK at the time of its release, and remains a staple to this day, especially within the gay community. With no further hits, however, the original duo disbanded in 1988. Armstead later reformed the duo with her daughter Dynelle Rhodes, and after her death in 2004, the daughter continued the duo with other singers, yet none of the later line-ups would be able to repeat the band's earlier success ~ Rhodes passed away in 2004
July 6, 1939 ~ Terrence Harris, commonly known as bassist Jet Harris, born in London, UK ~ Member of the Shadows from 1958 through 1962 and notably present on songs such as Savage as used in the Cliff Richard-film The Young Ones. Following his departure from the band would score moderate hits as a solo artist (Besamo Mucho, Theme From The Man With The Golden Arm), handful of UK top 10 hits with Tony Meehan (Diamonds, Scarlet O'Hara), and briefly play with Jeff Beck before disappearing from the public view ~ Harris passed away in 2011
July 6, 1938 ~ Operatic soprano Deborah Cook born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA ~ First gained serious attention in the early-1970s singing with Theater Bremen. Would go on to work with the Bavarian State Opera, the Hamburg State Opera, the Oper Frankfurt, the Deutsche Oper Am Rhein, the Santa Fe Opera, the Tetro Dell' Opera Di Roma, the Philadelphia Orchestra, the San Francisco Symphony, the BBC Sympony Orchestra, the Orchestre De Paris, the Hong Kong Philharmonic, and the Dresden Philharmonic ~ Cook passed away in 2019
July 6, 1937 ~ Bandleader Benny Goodman records Sing Sing Sing (With A Swing) in Hollywood, California ~ Written by Louis Prima, who recorded the first version the previous year. Goodman's 1937 version would feature Goodman on clarinet, Harry James, Ziggy Elman and Chris Griffin on trumpets, Red Ballard and Murray McEachern on trombones, Hymie Shertzer and George Koenig on alto saxophones, Arthur Rollini and Vido Musso on tenor saxophone, Jess Stacy on piano, Harry Goodman on bass and Gene Krupa on drums
July 6, 1937 ~ Eugene Drake Dixon, commonly known as singer, producer, songwriter, label executive Gene Chandler, born in Chicago, Illinois, USA ~ Member of the Dukays. R&B pioneer dubbed “the Duke of Earl” after one of his best known songs, Duke Of Earl which topped the Billboard Hot 100 in 1962. Later songs such as Nothing Can Stop Me, Rainbow '65, I Fooled You This Time and Groovy Situation would also fare quite well on the Billboard R&B charts
July 6, 1936 ~ R&B, doo-wop singer Charles Baskerville born ~ Member of Shep & the Limelites, with whom he recorded a string of singles in the first half of the 1960s including Ready For Your Love, Three Steps From The Altar, and What Did Daddy Do. Though most of their singles failed to reach the top half of the Billboard Hot 100, the trio are acknowledged as one of the finest and most consistent doo-wop outfits. Their best known, Daddy's Home, reached the top 10, peaking at No.2 in 1961, and over the years would be covered by dozens of artists, including notably Gene Chandler, Dee Dee Sharp, Chuck Jackson & Maxine Brown, Paul Anka, and Cliff Richard ~ Baskerville passed away in 1995
July 6, 1936 ~ Jean Vanobbergen, commonly known as singer, songwriter Grand Jojo, born in Brussels, Belgium ~ Cultural icon in his native Belgium with over three dozen albums to his name, starting in the early-1970s. Known for his self-mockery and festive songs. Well known songs include Chef Un P'tit Verre On A Soil, Sergent Flagada, La Petite Bête A Bon Dieu, and Jules César ~ Vanobbergen passed away in 2021
July 6, 1934 ~ Singer, actress Pia Colombo, full name Eliane Marie Amélie Pia Colombo, born in Aisne, France ~ Once dubbed the successor to Edith Piaf by critics, yet Colombo never became a household name. As a singer especially acclaimed for the album Pia Chante Bertolt Brecht & Kurt Weill released in 1969. Politically committed, besides Brecht and Weill, she was especially known as a gifted interpreter of songs written by Serge Gainsbourg, Jacques Brel, Georges Brassens, Hanns Eisler, Leo Ferré, and her husband Maurice Fanon. Colombo has also ventured into acting, both on stage and the big screen ~ Colombo passed away in 1986
July 6, 1934 ~ Bebop pianist René Urtreger born in Paris, France ~ A fixture on the Paris jazz scene since the mid-1950s. First gained serious attention backing American expatriates saxophonist Don Byas and trumpeter Buck Clayton, their 1954 Salon du Jazz performance becoming legendary. After a stint in the French Army, Urtreger would land a regular gig at the Club St Germain, a renowned jazz club on Paris' left bank, where he would be noticed by Lester Young who invited Urtreger to his touring band. Urtreger is also especially acclaimed for his contribution to Miles Davis' soundtrack Ascenseur Pour L'Echafaud released in 1957. Urtreger has recorded some two dozen albums as a leader, and has guested on recordings by Chet Baker, Claude François, Bobby Jaspar, Hubert Fol, Kenny Clarke, Michel Hausser, Stuff Smith, and Nathan Davis
July 6, 1932 ~ DiFosco T Ervin Jr, commonly known as singer, songwriter Big Dee Irwin, born in Harlem, New York, USA ~ Lead singer of 1950's vocal group the Pastels, known for their debut single Been So Long, penned by Ervin. Best known for duetting with Little Eva on the 1963 single Swinging On A Star, a top 40 hit in America, top 10 in the UK. Also known for a handful of earlier modest R&B hits such as 1959's I Can't Help It (I'm Falling In Love), 1960's Let's Try Again and 1961's Someday You'll Understand Why. Has also worked as a songwriter for Clydie King, Ray Charles, and Bobby Womack ~ Ervin passed away in 1995
July 6, 1927 ~ Pianist, composer Dolores Claman, full name Dolores Olga Claman, born in Vancouver, Canada ~ Best known for composing The Hockey Theme, long used as the theme song for CBC's A Hockey Night In Canada TV show, and for A Place To Stand, initially used for the film of the same name that accompanied Montreal Expo '67 and over time regarded as Ontario's unofficial provincial anthem ~ Claman passed away in 2021
July 6, 1926 ~ Jazz trombonist Frank Rehak born in New York, New York, USA ~ In-demand session musician throughout the late-1960s, his career cut short by a heroin addiction and financial problems. Perhaps best known for appearing on the pivotal Miles Davis albums Miles Ahead, Porgy & Bess and Sketches Of Spain. Other notable credits include Nat Pierce, Manny Albam, Quincy Jones (This Is How I Feel About Jazz), Perry Como, Big Maybelle, Charlie Byrd, Chubby Jackson, Ruth Brown (Late Date With Ruth Brown), Creed Taylor, Woody Herman, and Gil Evans (The Individualism Of Gil Evans) ~ Rehak passed away in 1987
July 6, 1925 ~ Rock & roll, rockabilly, western swing singer, guitarist Bill Haley, full name William John Clifton Haley, born in Highland Park, Michigan, USA ~ Rock & roll pioneer. Has sold over 60 million records. Scored numerous hits throughout the 1950s, most with his backing unit the Comets, including Crazy Man Crazy, Dim Dim The Lights (I Want Some Atmosphere), Burn That Candle, and Razzle Dazzle, all considered pivotal in the early development of rock and roll. Haley's best known, See You Later Alligator and Rock Around The Clock, are considered classics and remain popular to this day, in part due to being frequently used in films and TV series ~ Haley passed away in 1981
July 6, 1924 ~ Luigi Balassoni, commonly known as drummer, bandleader, composer Louie Bellson, born in Rock Falls, Illinois, USA ~ Pioneered the use of two bass drums. Along with Buddy Rich and Gene Krupa, considered among the finest drummers of their generation and the first drummer superstars. Known for both his extensive drums solos, sometimes running over fifteen minutes, as well as for being a fine accompanist playing quietly in the background. Served in big bands led by Benny Goodman, Tommy Dorsey, Harry James, and Duke Ellington, notably writing Skin Deep while with the latter. Well over 50 albums to his name as a leader or co-leader, acclaimed especially for Concerto For Drums released in 1956. Married to singer Pearl Bailey from 1952 until her death in 1990, for whom he also served as musical director. In a 2005 interview with Jazz Connection magazine, looking back on his lengthy career, Bellson talked of his main influences: “I have to give just dues to two guys who really got me off on the drums, Big Sid Catlett and Jo Jones. All three of us (Bellson, Rich, Krupa) realized what Jones did and it influenced a lot of us. We all three looked to Jo as the ‘Papa’ who really did it. Gene helped bring the drums to the foreground. Buddy was a great natural player. But we also have to look back at Chick Webb's contributions, too” ~ Balassoni passed away in 2009
July 6, 1916 ~ Jazz pianist Bill Clifton born in Toronto, Canada ~ An in-demand accompanist of the swing era, and considered an early and important influence on jazz pianist Bill Evans. Clifton decided to become a professional musician after hearing the music of Fletcher Henderson and Duke Ellington. Noted for his Piano Moods, released in 1950 as one of the first long-playing records, yet best known as a sideman to the likes of Paul Whiteman, Benny Goodman, Woody Herman, Bud Freeman, and Abe Lyman. Clifton also accompanied some of the era's greatest singers including Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra, Ukulele Ike, and Ilene Woods ~ Clifton passed away in 1967
July 6, 1903 ~ Country, bluegrass guitarist, singer Charlie Monroe born in Rosine, Kentucky, USA ~ Older brother of bluegrass icon Bill Monroe, with whom he also worked. Founded Kentucky Pardners which at times included Lester Flatt, Red Rector, Curly Seckler and Ira Louvin ~ Monroe passed away in 1975
July 6, 1902 ~ Jazz bassist, double bassist Louis Vola born in La-Seyne-sur-Mer, France ~ Best known for his work with Django Reinhardt and Stéphane Grappelli as a co-founding member of the Quintette du Hot Club. Has also worked with Ray Ventura, Duke Ellington and with Charles Trenet ~ Vola passed away in 1990
July 6, 1892 ~ Songwriter, lyricist, screenwriter Jack Yellen, full name Jack Selig Yellen, born in Raczki, Russian Empire ~ Perhaps best remembered for co-writing Happy Days Are Here Again, first recorded by Charles King in 1929 and covered by numerous artists including Leo Reisman, Ben Selvin, Bert Ambrose, Adriano Celentano. The song would be used for Franklin Roosevelt's 1932 presidential campaign. Other well known songs co-written by Yellen include Ain't She Sweet (Lou Gold, Pearl Bailey, Gene Vincent, Frank Sinatra), Happy Feet (Paul Whiteman, Leo Reisman, Jack Hylton), Hard Hearted Hannah (The Vamp Of Savannah) (Ukulele Ike, Ray McKinley, Ella Fitzgerald, Ray Charles), and My Yiddishe Momme (Willie Howard, Patti Page, Connie Francis) ~ Yellen passed away in 1991