June 27, 2024 ~ Richard Samet Friedman, commonly known as rock, country rock, progressive country, outlaw country singer, guitarist Kinky Friedman, passed away in Medina, Texas, USA ~ Flamboyant satirist with well over a dozen albums to his name, starting with the acclaimed Sold American released in 1973. Following the wave of country rock from acts such as Gram Parsons, the Band, and the Eagles, Friedman would gain a cult following through provocative songs such as We Reserve The Right To Refuse Service To You, They Ain't Making Jews Like Jesus Anymore, and Get Your Biscuits In The Oven And Your Buns In The Bed, gaining more exposure after touring with Bob Dylan in 1975 and 1976. After his music career stalled in the 1980s, Friedman shifted his focus to writing detective novels, often featuring a fictionalized version of himself, his books laced with the same wit and satirism known from his lyrics. Upon hearing of Friedman's death, close friend and longtime collaborator Kent Perkins commented: “He was the last free person on earth. He had an irreverence about him. He was a fearless writer” ~ Friedman was born in 1944
June 27, 2023 ~ Mandolinist, singer Bobby Osborne, full name Bobby Van Osborne, passed away in Gallatin, Tennessee, USA ~ Best known as member of sibling outfit the Osborne Brothers, one of the most influentual bluegrass acts of the 1960s and 1970s, with whom he recorded well over a dozen albums. The siblings are best known for their 1967 hit song Rocky Top, the brothers' rendition would be later named an official Tennessee state song. An in-demand mandolinist, Osborne has guested on albums by Gary Burton, JD Crowe, the Country Gentlemen, Mac Wiseman, Vassar Clements, Delbert McClinton (The Jealous Kind), Flatt & Scruggs, the Lonesome Pine Fiddlers, Terry Eldredge, Chubby Wise, Tom T Hall, Rhonda Vincent (The Storm Still Rages), and Kenny Baker ~ Osborne was born in 1931
June 27, 2020 ~ Lionel Frederick Cole, commonly known as singer, pianist Freddy Cole, passed away in Atlanta, Georgia, USA ~ Brother of Nat King Cole and Ike Cole, father of Lionel Cole. Influenced by John Lewis, Teddy Wilson and Billy Eckstine. Toured with Johnny Coles and Benny Golson backing Earl Bostic. Recorded for European and UK-based labels. Worked with Grover Washington Jr. Recorded jingles. Was the subject of the 2006 documentary The Cole Nobody Knows ~ Cole was born in 1931
June 27, 2020 ~ Country singer, guitarist, songwriter Mats Rådberg passed away ~ Well over a dozen albums to his name, enjoying popularity in his native Sweden especially noted during the 1970s and 1980s. Worked with Elisabeth Andreassen on the 1980 collaborative album I'm The Singer You're The Song album. Collaborated with country band Rankarna, notably on the 1983 song Peta In En Pinne I Brasan, a translation of Shel Silverstein's Put Another Log On The Fire ~ Rådberg was born in 1948
June 27, 2020 ~ Jesse Willard Carr, commonly known as guitarist Pete Carr, passed away in Florence, Alabama, USA ~ Worked with Joan Baez, Luther Ingram, Bob Seger, Joe Cocker, Boz Scaggs, Paul Simon, the Staple Singers, Rod Stewart, Barbra Streisand, Wilson Pickett, Hank Williams Jr, LeBlanc & Carr, Sailcat, and Hour Glass ~ Carr was born in 1950
June 27, 2018 ~ Joseph Walter Jackson, commonly known as talent manager Joe Jackson, passed away in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA ~ Talent manager and patriarch of the Jackson family, which includes Michael Jackson and Janet Jackson. Manager for most Jackson-acts including the Jackson 5 and the Jacksons ~ Jackson passed away in 1928
June 27, 2018 ~ Punk rock, skate punk, hardcore punk, pop punk bassist, guitarist, singer Steve Soto passed away ~ Co-founded Agent Orange in 1979, one of the first punk rock outfits to draw heavily from surf music. Would depart the band the following year to co-found the Adolescents, serving as the band's bassist and sole constant member until his death in 2018. The band is especially acclaimed for their 1981 eponymous The Adolescents debut album, providing a blueprint for many California hardcore bands. Soto has also worked with Legal Weapon, Joyride, Manic Hispanic, supergroup 22 Jacks, and Punk Rock Karaoke ~ Soto was born in 1963
June 27, 2015 ~ Bassist Chris Squire, full name Christopher Russell Edward Squire, passed away in Phoenix, Arizona, USA ~ Best known as founding member and sole bassist of Yes for 47 years, retiring from the band shortly before his death. Previously a member of the Selfs. Influenced by John Entwistle, Jack Bruce, Larry Graham, and by Bill Wyman ~ Squire was born in 1948
June 27, 2014 ~ Singer, songwriter Bobby Womack, full name Robert Dwayne Womack, passed away in Phoenix, Arizona, USA ~ Sang lead in sibling group the Valentinos, known for It's All Over Now, later covered by the Rolling Stones. Backed Sam Cooke on guitar. As a solo artist best known for songs such as That's The Way I Feel About You, Woman's Gotta Have It, Across 110th Street, If You Think You're Lonely Now, and I Wish He Didn't Trust Me So Much. Worked with Joe Tex, the Box Tops, Aretha Franklin, Gábor Szabó, Sly & the Family Stone, Janis Joplin, Ronnie Wood, Wilton Felder, Patrick Moten, Patti LaBelle (notably the duet hit Love Has Finally Come At Last), Ronald Isley, the Manhattans, June Yamagishi, Allen Toussaint, Diane Schuur, Shirley Brown, Andrew Love, Wayne Jackson, Jeanie Tracy, Todd Rundgren, Blur's Damon Albarn (co-produced Womack's 2012 album The Bravest Man In The Universe), Stevie Wonder, Snoop Dogg, Rod Stewart, Van Morrison, and Rudimental ~ Womack was born in 1944
June 27, 2012 ~ Don Louis Agrati, commonly known as actor, singer, songwriter Don Grady, passed away in Thousand Oaks, California, USA ~ Best known as an actor, notably as one of the Mickey Mouse Mouseketeers and as Robbie Douglas on the My Three Sons TV series. As a singer known for his 1971 Homegrown album and for his association with Yellow Balloon ~ Grady was born in 1944
June 27, 2012 ~ Susanna Talley, commonly known as country, folk singer, songwriter Susanna Clark, passed away in Nashville, Tennessee, USA ~ Married to Guy Clark. Wrote or co-wrote several well known country songs including Dottsy's I'll Be Your San Antone Rose, Don Williams' Come From The Heart and Carlene Carter's Easy From Now On ~ Talley was born in 1939
June 27, 2009 ~ R&B, soul, disco singer Fayette Pinkney, full name Fayette Regina Pinkney, passed away in Lansdake, Pennsylvania, USA ~ Best known as original member of the Three Degrees, present on recordings such as When Will I See You Again and Take Good Care Of Yourself. Released a sole solo album, One Degree, in 1979 ~ Pinkney was born in 1948
June 27, 2009 ~ Blues, folk, jazz singer, guitarist, pianist, songwriter Jackie Washington passed away in Hamilton, Canada ~ As a solo artist debuted with the Blues And Sentimental album in 1976. In-demand sideman for artists including Duke Ellington, Lionel Hampton, Joni Mitchell, and Gordon Lightfoot. Washington was honored in the Blackie & the Rodeo Kings song Jackie Washington, released on their 2003 BARK album ~ Washington was born in 1919
June 27, 2008 ~ Conductor, pianist, arranger Raymond Lefèvre passed away ~ Best known for The Day The Rains Came, and for his rendition of the Michel Polnareff-penned Soul Coaxing (Ame Caline), the latter an international hit in 1968. Lefèvre has also worked with Frank Pourcel, Dalida, Claude François, Richard Anthony, Peter van Eyck, and Paul Mauriat ~ Lefèvre was born in 1929
June 27, 2006 ~ Classical pianist, composer Germaine Mounier passed away in Paris, 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 was born in 1920
June 27, 2005 ~ Country songwriter, producer Robert Byrne, full name Robert Bellarmine Byrne, passed away in Nashville, Tennessee, USA ~ As a recording artist best known for co-penning and first recording That Didn't Hurt Too Bad at the tail end of the 1970s, notably covered by Dr Hook. Best known as a songwriter, his songs recorded by the likes of Wayne Newton, Captain & Tennille (No Love In The Morning), Ronnie Milsap (It's Written All Over Your Face), Michael Johnson, Taffy McElroy, Earl Thomas Conley (What I'd Say), the Forester Sisters, Lorrie Morgan (I Didn't Know My Own Strength), and Phil Vassar. As a producer, Byrne has notably worked with Shenandoah, including on the acclaimed 1989 The Road Not Taken album ~ Byrne was born in 1954
June 27, 2004 ~ Agnes Cunningham, commonly known as folk pianist, accordionist Sis Cunningham, passed away ~ Known for her leftist views. Performer and publicist of left-wing folk and protest songs. Co-founded the Red Dust Players in 1939. Briefly a member of the Almanac Singers alongside Pete Seeger and Woody Guthrie. Founder and editor of Broadside magazine, considered a vital part of the 1960s folk scene publishing songs by Bob Dylan, Phil Ochs, Janis Ian, Tom Paxton, Buffy Sainte-Marie, Malvina Reynolds and othes ~ Cunningham was born in 1909
June 27, 2002 ~ Bassist John Entwistle, full name John Alec Entwistle, passed away in Paradise, Nevada, USA ~ Co-founding member of the Who. The only one in the band with formal musical training. The band is known for songs such as I Can't Explain, My Generation, Substitute, Happy Jack and I Can See For Miles, the latter their only Billboard Hot 100 top 10 single ~ Entwistle was born in 1944
June 27, 2002 ~ Bebop, cool jazz pianist Russ Freeman, full name Russell Donald Freeman, passed away in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA ~ Classically trained. Worked with Art Pepper, Shorty Rogers, Chet Baker, Shelly Manne, Art Pepper, Clifford Brown, Zoot Sims, André Previn, Maynard Ferguson, Jimmy Giuffre, Irene Kral, Jack Montrose, and Pete Rugolo ~ Freeman was born in 1926
June 27, 1999 ~ Aitana Ocana i Morales, mononymously known as singer, songwriter Aitana, born in Barcelona, Spain ~ Dubbed “the Spanish Princess of Pop” Morales first gained serious attention in 2017 as runner-up in the talent contest Operación Trufo, recording Lo Malo with fellow contestant Ana Guerra. The song would top the charts in her native country. Released her Spoiler solo debut album two years later and has scored numerous hits, including the Spanish charttoppers Tel&eacutfono, Vas A Quedarte, and Mon Amour
June 27, 1996 ~ Singer, songwriter Lauren Jauregui, full name Lauren Michelle Jauregui Morgado, born in Miami, Florida, USA ~ Rose to prominence as member of girl group Fifth Harmony, known for Worth It featuring Kid Ink and Work From Home. Released her solo debut single, All Night featuring Steve Aoki, in 2017. Has also worked with Marian Hill, Tainy, and Halsey
June 27, 1993 ~ Pop, pop rock singer Gabriela Guncikova born in Kromenz, Czech Republic ~ Critically described as a cross between Sheryl Crow and Ann Wilson. First gained attention as runner-up in the 2011 edition of the talent contest Superstar aired simultanously on Czech TV Nova and Slovak Markiza. Would release her Dvoji Tvar later the same year. Internationally perhaps best known for touring with the Trans-Siberian Orchestra during 2014 and 2015 and for representing her native Czech Republic at the 2016 Eurovision Songfestival, reaching 25th place with I Stand
June 27, 1992 ~ Jazz baritone saxophonist, clarinetist Charles Tyler passed away in Toulon, France ~ Leader and sideman. Worked with Ornette Coleman, Sunny Murray, Arthur Blythe, Bobby Bradford, David Murray, Steve Reid, Cecil Taylor, Billy Bang, Sun Ra, Khan Jamal, Steve Lacy, Albert Ayler, Wilber Morris, and Hal Russell ~ Tyler was born in 1941
June 27, 1990 ~ Aselin Ettinger, commonly known as pop, Celtic pop singer Aselin Debison, born in Glace Bay, Canada ~ Released her The Littlest Angel debut album consisting of Christmas songs at age 11 and has recorded from time to time since dabbling in pop, Celtic pop and country
June 27, 1987 ~ Alternative rock, post-hardcore drummer Tomoya Kanki born in Hyogo Prefecture, Japan ~ Longtime member of One Ok Rock. Though not an original member Kanki has been with the band since their 2007 Zeitakubyo debut album. The band enjoys popularity in their native Japan and is known for hits such as Kanzen Kankaku Dreamer, The Beginning, Deeper Deeper, and Mighty Long Fall
June 27, 1986 ~ Guitarist, fiddler, singer Joe Maphis passed away in Nashville, Tennessee, USA ~ One of country's flashiest guitarists from the 1950s and 1960s. Best known for Dim Lights Thick Smoke And Loud Loud Music. As a backing guitarist, Maphis has worked with Merle Travis, Johnny Bond, Johnny Burnette, Doyle Holly, the Collins Kids, Wanda Jackson, Rose Maddox, and Ricky Nelson ~ Maphis was born in 1921
June 27, 1983 ~ Girl group Bananarama release Cruel Summer, lead single off their eponymous Bananarama sophomore album ~ With one album and four top 10 hits under their belt, the upbeat girl group Bananarama had quickly gained popularity in their native UK and across Europe. However, apart from the minor hit Shy Boy (Don't It Make You Feel Good) which stalled at No.83 Billboard Hot 100, they had yet to reach American audiences. Initially, Cruel Summer would be overlooked by the American public, however, when it was included on the soundtrack for Karate Kid it rose to No.9, making it the British group's first American top 10 hit. A few years later, the band would score two more major hits in America, the Shocking Blue-cover Venus reached No.1, I Heard A Rumour peaked at No.4 Billboard Hot 100
June 27, 1981 ~ Rock, country, electronic producer, keyboardist, percussionist, songwriter Jim Kaufman born in Phoenix, Arizona, USA ~ Worked with Awolnation, Anti-Flag, Spiritual Rez, the Night Riots, Opiate For The Masses, the Black Moods, EG Daily, Samuel Markus, Skindred, Me & A Gun, Ryan Sums, and the Stereo Snakes
June 27, 1981 ~ Michael Benjamin, commonly known as zouk, dancehall singer, guitarist, keyboardist, songwriter Mikaben, born in Port-au-Prince, Haiti ~ Son of singer Lionel Benjamin. First gained attention through the talent contest Konkou Chante Nwel, winning 1st place. Drew from konpa, twoubadou, rap kreyol, soca, and reggae. Benjamin passed away at age 41 after suffering cardiac arrest while on stage at the Accor Arena, Paris, France ~ Benjamin passed away in 2022
June 27, 1980 ~ Albany Leon Bigard, commonly known as jazz clarinetist, saxophonist Barney Bigard, passed away ~ In the early-1920s played with King Oliver, usually on saxophone. Bigard is best known however for his 15-year tenure with Duke Ellington starting in 1927. He is also credited as composer or co-composer on several numbers, including the Ellington standard Mood Indigo. Was the one who recommended Duke to hire Johnny Hodges. Post-Ellington Bigard did soundtrack work for Hollywood, including with Louis Armstrong. Toured with trombonist Kid Ory in the late-1940s. Bigard also recorded under his own name. Sat in with the Glenn Miller Orchestra on some of their best known such as Moonlight Serenade and Tuxedo Junction. Wrote an autobiography titled With Louis And The Duke ~ Bigard was born in 1906
June 27, 1980 ~ Singer Kate Bush releases Babooshka, lifted off her Never For Ever album ~ Peaking at No.5, Babooshka would become the singer's third UK top 10 hit, preceded by Wuthering Heights and The Man With The Child In His Eyes. The song is noted for its use of a Fairlight digital synthesizer, an instrument pioneered by Peter Gabriel on songs such as No Self Control and Games Without Frontiers, both of which featured Bush on backing vocals. Gabriel had used the sampler to capture the sound of breaking glass, a trick Bush repeated on Babooshka
June 27, 1980 ~ Singer Leo Sayer releases More Than I Can Say, lifted off his Living In A Fantasy album ~ A plea for a second chance, as the narrator misses a former lover. Sayer was looking for an oldie for his upcoming album, when he heard Bobby Vee's rendition of More Than I Can Say, originally written and recorded by Sonny Curtis and Jerry Allison. More Than I Can Say would become one of Sayer's best known, reaching top 10 in over a dozen countries. In America, the song peaked at No.2 Billboard Hot 100, making it his fourth and final top 10 hit, preceded by Long Tall Glasses (I Can Dance), You Make Me Feel Like Dancing, and When I Need You
June 27, 1979 ~ Bassist John Warne born ~ Best known as bassist for Christian rock band Relient K, joining the band in 2004 as replacement for Brian Pittman, first appearing on the album Five Score And Seven Years Ago released in 2007. Previously sang lead and played guitar for Christian punk outfit Ace Troubleshooter, active from 1996 through 2004. Warne has also played with short-lived outfit Guerilla Rodeo, known for their sole EP Ride Rope And Destroy released in 2004
June 27, 1978 ~ Jazz drummer Alex Bigard passed away in New Orleans, Louisiana, USA ~ Brother of clarinetist Barney Bigard. Worked with the Excelsior Brass Band, the Maple Leaf Orchestra, Peter DuConge, Buddy Petit, Chris Kelly, Sidney Desvigne, Kid Shots Madison, John Robichaux, Kid Rena, the Mighty Four, the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, Harold Dejan, Kid Howard, Punch Miller, and De De Pierce ~ Bigard was born in 1899
June 27, 1977 ~ Punk rock bassist, guitarist, singer Dan Andriano, full name Daniel Michael Andriano, born in Elgin, Illinois, USA ~ Best known as member of the Alkaline Trio, joining the band in 1997 as replacement for original bassist Rob Doran. Andriano first appeared on the 1998 For Your Lungs Only EP and has recorded over half a dozen with the band since. Member of rock supergroup the Damned Things, present on the 2019 High Crimes album. Has also recorded as a solo artist and worked with Slapstick, Tuesday, the Falcon, and Ben Weasel
June 27, 1976 ~ Pop rock, soft rock, country singer Leigh Nash, full name Leigh Anne Bingham Nash, born in New Braunfels, Texas, USA ~ Lead singer of Christian alternative rock outfit Sixpence None The Richer, best known for Kiss Me of their eponymous 1997 Sixpence None The Richer album. The single would reach top 10 on both sides of the Atlantic. Nash has also recorded as a solo artist, starting with the album Blue On Blue released in 2006, and collaborated with the likes of Delerium, Sarah McLachlan, Conjure One, Marc Martel, and John Tibbs
June 27, 1973 ~ Rock band Aerosmith release their original Dream On single, taken off the band's eponymous Aerosmith debut album ~ Written by Steven Tyler, produced by Adrian Barber. Taken off the band's eponymous Aerosmith debut album. The original single would do well in the band's native Boston, becoming a radio staple of classic rock radio. A little over two years later the slightly longer album version was re-released as a single, and the power ballad would become their first major hit, reaching top 10 Billboard Hot 100. Over the years, the song has become one of the band's best known. Years later, AllMusic would describe the song as “the blueprint for all power ballads”
June 27, 1972 ~ Christian Alejandro Cuturrufo Contador, commonly known as jazz trumpeter Cristián Cuturrufo, born in Coquimbo, Chile ~ Classically trained. Recognised as one of Chile's premier jazz trumpeters. Influenced by Kool & the Gang, Cole Porter, Arturo Sandoval, Fats Navarro, Dizzy Gillespie. Especcially renowned for albums such as 2004's Jazz De Salon working with pianist Valentín Trujillo, 2006's funk-infused Cristián Cuturuffo & The Latin Jazz and 2007's Chilean swing landmark Swing Nacional ~ Cuturrufo passed away in 2021
June 27, 1971 ~ Southern rockers the Allman Brothers Band record One Way Out at Fillmore East, New York, New York ~ Produced by Tom Dowd. An old blues track popularized for rock audiences by the Allman Brothers Band, who recorded the song live for their 1972 Eat A Peach album and released it as a single paired with Stand Back on the flip side. One Way Out actually traces back to several mid-1960s blues recordings, Elmore James being the most likely original author though some historians have named Sonny Boy Williamson II. Though only a modest hit at the time of its release, the Allman Brothers Band's single peaking at No.86 Billboard Hot 100, the song has become a staple of rock radio, in part due to its length of just about 5 minutes, short in comparison to their other songs
June 27, 1970 ~ Singer, guitarist, bassist, keyboardist, drummer Draco Rosa born in Long Island, New York, USA ~ Rose to prominence as a member of boy band Menudo, remaining with the band from 1984 through 1987, singing lead on perhaps the band's biggest hit Hold Me. Has since released a number of solo albums, first achieving mainstream success in Brazil, written songs for Ednita Nazario, Julio Iglesias and for former bandmate Ricky Martin (Livin' La Vida Loca), worked with Maggie's Dream and ventured into acting
June 27, 1970 ~ In its fifth week on the charts, The Love You Save by the Jackson 5 hits No.1 Billboard Hot 100 ~ The third single in a row written by Freddie Perren, Fonce Mizell, Deke Richards, and Motown-owner Berry Gordy Jr, a team dubbed the Corporation, and the third of four consecutive singles to reach the top position on the Billboard Hot 100, preceded by I Want You Back and ABC, and succeeded by I'll Be There. When The Love You Save hit No.1, the Jackson 5 became the first act ever to have their first three chart singles top the Billboard Hot 100. Its title and lyrical theme was inspired by Joe Tex's minor 1966 hit The Love You Save (May Be Your Own), yet as lead singer Michael Jackson was only 11 years old when he recorded the song, the topic is more innocent in nature. The song is about a girl who is moving through guys a little too fast, and the singer wants her to slow down before she ruins her reputation. This theme has been explored in pop songs before, but this time it's framed in a schoolyard. Jackson references four guys by first name, all nods to historical figures. Isaac who “kissed you beneath the apple tree” refers to Isaac Newton who wrote about gravity after seeing an apple fall from a tree, Benjy who “felt electricity when he held your hand” refers to Benjamin Franklin who discovered electricity, Alexander who “called you” is Alexander Graham Bell who invented the telephone, and Christopher who “discovered you're way ahead of your time” refers to Christopher Columbus, the explorer regularly credited with discovering America
June 27, 1970 ~ Laurence John Colbert, commonly known as rock drummer Loz Colbert, born ~ Critically compared to the Who's Keith Moon. Co-founding member of Ride, with whom he recorded the albums Nowhere, Going Blank Again, Carnival Of Light, and Tarantula. Following the band's initial disbandement in 1996, Colbert joined the Animalhouse, known for the album Ready To Receive release in 2000. Colbert was also briefly a member of the Jesus & Mary Chain during the mid-2000s, and toured with Gaz Coombes
June 27, 1965 ~ Jazz, free jazz trumpeter Magnus Broo born in Husqvarna, Sweden ~ Influenced by John Coltrane. Key figure in Atomic, with whom he recorded about a dozen albums since the late-1990s. Over half a dozen albums as a leader or co-leader of smaller ensembles, specifically noted for Sudden Joy released in 2002. In-demand collaborator and sideman, Broo has appeared on albums by the One O'Clock Lab Band, Bosse Broberg, Lars Gulliksson, Jan Wallgren, Lennart Åberg, Ark, Fredrik Nordström, Per Henrik Wallin, Sophie Zelmani, Lina Nyberg, Marilyn Crispell, and the Fire Orchestra
June 27, 1962 ~ Singer, guitarist Bo Diddley records You Can't Judge A Book By The Cover in Chicago, Illinois, USA ~ Produced by Ralph Bass. Written by Willie Dixon, based on a sixteen-bar blues atypical to Diddley's regular Diddley beat. Included on the 1962 eponymous Bo Diddley album. Released as a single, b/w I Can Tell, it would be Diddley's last charting single, reaching top 30 on the Billboard R&B charts and stalling in the low 40s on the all-genre Billboard Hot 100
June 27, 1961 ~ Film, TV composer John McCarthy born in Toronto, Canada ~ Praised for his hybrid of acoustical and electronic elements. Active as a composer since the early-1990s, scoring films such as Love And Human Remains, Boy Meets Girl, and Anything For Jackson, and TV shows such as Battle Creek, Due South, and My Own Worst Enemy
June 27, 1960 ~ Country singer, songwriter Chris Ward born in the Bronx, New York, USA ~ Wrote Confederate Railroad's 1995 single Hey Ya. Would release his One Step Beyond sole album the following year, produced by James Stroud and Dann Huff. The album included When You Get To Be You, notably covered by Lisa Brokop in 1998
June 27, 1959 ~ Country singer Lorrie Morgan, full name Loretta Lynn Morgan, born in Nashville, Tennessee, USA ~ Daughter of singer George Morgan. Widow of singer Keith Whitley, ex-wife of Jon Randall and of Sammy Kershaw. Enjoyed her biggest commercial success from the late-1980s through the turn of the century. Best known for songs such as Five Minutes, What Part Of No and I Didn't Know My Own Strength. Has collaborated with Frank Sinatra, Johnny Mathis, Tammy Wynette, Dolly Parton, Andy Williams, the New World Philharmonic, and Pam Tillis
June 27, 1958 ~ André Simon Anderson, commonly known as funk, R&B bassist, guitarist, pianist, drummer, singer André Cymone, born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA ~ Early member of Prince's touring band, who also wrote Cymone's 1985 The Dance Electric solo hit. Cymone would go on to produce and co-write for artists such as Evelyn Champagne King, Pebbles, Jody Watley (Real Love), Jermaine Stewart, Pretty Poison, Adam Ant, and Phil Thornalley
June 27, 1958 ~ Alternative rock, folk rock, dream pop singer, violinist, guitarist, accordionist, pianist, songwriter Lisa Germano, full name Lisa Ruth Germano, born in Mishawaka, Indiana, USA ~ Recorded over half a dozen as a solo artist, noted specifically for her Happiness sophomore album released in 1993. Closely associated with John Mellencamp present on albums such as The Lonesome Jubilee, Big Daddy and Human Wheels. An in-demand session violinist, Germano has appeared on albums by the dB's, the Simple Minds, the Indigo Girls (Nomads Indians Saints), Big Shoulders, Adam Schmitt (World So Bright), Bob Seger, Antenna (Sway), the Devlins (Drift), Iggy Pop (American Caesar), Giant Sand, Linda Perry, Neil Finn (Try Whistling This), Sheryl Crow (The Globe Sessions), Eels, David Bowie, Yann Tiersen, Jewel (0304), Pat Green, Patty Griffin, and Meshell Ndegeocello (Devil's Halo)
June 27, 1958 ~ Pianist, composer Magnus Lindberg, full name Magnus Gustaf Adolf Lindberg, born in Helsinki, Finland ~ Composer-in-residence with the New York Philharmonic from 2009 through 2012, and with the London Philharmonic Orchestra starting in 2014. Perhaps best known for composing Kraft, written for the new-music ensemble Toimii founded by Lindberg in 1980
June 27, 1956 ~ Reggae, lovers rock, ska, rocksteady, roots reggae singer, drummer Freddie McGregor born in Clarendon, Jamaica ~ Father of dancehall producer Di Genius. Co-founded the Clarendonians at a mere age 7. Would rise to fame as a solo artist by the early-1980s. Known for songs such as Bobby Bobylon, Big Ship, Push Comes To Shove, Just Don't Want To Be Lonely and I Was Born A Winner. Has worked with producers such as Niney The Observer, Henry Jujo Lawes, Linval Thompson and Gussie Clarke.
June 27, 1956 ~ Rockabily, rock & roll singer Gene Vincent records Bop Street at Bradley Film & Recording Studio, Nashville, Tennessee ~ Under the supervision of producer Ken Nelson, Vincent and his backing unit the Blue Caps record Bop Street as well as Well I Knocked (Bim-Bam), You Told A Fib and Jump Back Honey Jump Back
June 27, 1956 ~ Maria João Monteiro Grancha, commonly known as jazz singer Maria João, born in Lisbon, Portugal ~ Closely associated with pianist Mário Laginha. Actively recording since the early-1980s. Mostly a jazz singer yet incorporates folk, avant-garde and electronic into her oeuvre. Has worked with Aki Takase, Bobby McFerrin, David Linx, Dino Saluzzi, Gilberto Gil, Joe Zawinul, Kai Eckhardt, Manu Katché, Trilok Gurtu, and Wolfgang Muthspiel
June 27, 1950 ~ Jazz, pop, rock trombonist Glenn Ferris, full name Glenn Arthur Ferris, born in Los Angeles, California, USA ~ Classically trained. First gained attention in the late-1960s backing Don Ellis, who also wrote Ferris Wheel in his honor. In-demand session musician working with an array of artists ranging from jazz to pop. Present on albums by Bonnie Raitt (Takin' My Time), the Average White Band, Stevie Wonder (Songs In The Key Of Life), the Brothers Johnson, Martial Solal, Alphonse Mouzon, Duran Duran, Angélique Kidjo, Steve Lacy, and Billy Cobham. As a solo artist, leader or co-leader has recorded over half a dozen albums, notably Chrominance released in 2001
June 27, 1949 ~ Singer Gene Autry records Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer ~ Written by Johnny Marks, inspired by the 1930 story Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer. Autry's recording, the flip side containing If It Don't Snow On Christmas, would top the American charts the week of Christmas 1949
June 27, 1948 ~ Latin jazz, jazz fusion percussionist Bill Summers born ~ About a dozen albums as a leader, specifically known for his 1997 Essence Of Kwanzaa release. Frequent collaborator of Herbie Hancock, with whom he recorded over a dozen albums starting with the acclaimed Head Hunters released in 1973. Regularly worked with Quincy Jones, including on the soundtracks Roots and The Color Purple. Member of Los Hombres Calientes, with whom he recorded five albums including Vol.4 Vodou Dance released in 2003. Has also appeared on albums by Bobby Womack, Bennie Maupin (Jewel In The Lotus), Lenny Williams, the Pointer Sisters (Steppin'), Norman Connors, Sonny Rollins, Pete Escovedo, Seawind (Window Of A Child), Patrice Rushen, McCoy Tyner, Eddy Grant, Taj Mahal, Sting (The Soul Cages), the Zawinul Syndicate, Meshell Ndegeocello, Stevie Wonder, and Maria Muldaur
June 27, 1947 ~ Jazz drummer, singer Brian Abrahams born in Cape Town, South Africa ~ Formed District 6. Also worked Sarah Vaughan, Nancy Wilson, Abdullah Ibrahim, Dudu Pukwana, Ronnie Scott, John Taylor, Johnny Dyani, Brotherhood Of Breath, Jim Pepper, Dewey Redman, Mal Waldron, Archie Shepp, Courtney Pine, Tony Hicks, and John McCall
June 27, 1945 ~ Drummer Joey Covington, full name Joseph Edward Covington, born in Jonestown, Pennsylvania, USA ~ Best known as member of the Jefferson Airplane. Wrote and sang on Pretty As You Feel, the band's last hit. Worked with the Fenways, Kim Fowley, Papa John Creach, Jimmy Greenspoon, Joe Schermie, Hot Tuna, Jorma Kaukonen, and Jack Casady ~ Covington passed away in 2013
June 27, 1944 ~ Electronic composer, musical theorist Bernard Szajner born in Grenoble, France ~ Credited with the invention of the laser harp, which he patented. Renowned as a light and visual effects technician working with acts such as Magma, Gong, Stomu Yamashta, and the Who. As a recording artist has released a number of avant-garde electronic albums starting with Visions Of Dune released in 1979, inspired by the Frank Herbert-novel Dune
June 27, 1944 ~ Maria José Motta de Oliveira, commonly known as actress, singer Zezé Motta, born in Campos dos Goytacazes, Brazil ~ Considered one of the most important and prolific actresses in Brazil, active since the mid-1960s. As a singer has recorded about a dozen albums, starting with the collaborative Gerson Conrad & Zezé Motta with Gérson Conrad released in 1974
June 27, 1943 ~ Folk, Nueva Cancion singer, songwriter Angel Parra, full name Luis Angel Cereceda Parra, born in Valparaiso, Chile ~ Son of singer Violeta Parra, brother of singer Isabel Parra, father of guitarist Angel Parra Jr. Leading figure in Nueva Cancion genre ~ Parra passed away in 2017
June 27, 1942 ~ Rock bassist Björn Thelin born ~ Best known for co-founding the Rebels with guitarist Bo Starander. The duo would evolve into the Spotnicks, arguably the first Swedish group to have significant international succes. Well-known songs include Amapola, Drina, Just Listen To My Heart, and Papa Oom Mow Mow ~ Thelin passed away in 2017
June 27, 1942 ~ Benjamin Baldwin, commonly known as pop rock singer Bruce Johnston, born in Peoria, Illinois, USA ~ Best known as a member of the Beach Boys, first appearing on the 1965 single California Girls and remaining with the band through 1972. Wrote or co-wrote several songs for the band including The Nearest Faraway Place, Tears In The Morning, and Deirdre. Also known for forming the duo Bruce & Terry with Terry Melcher, with whom he also worked in the Rip-chords. Wrote I Write The Songs, recorded by Captain & Tennille, David Cassidy, and Barry Manilow. Has also recorded as a solo artist, starting with the album Surfer's Pajama Party released in 1962, and served as in-house producer for Columbia Records
June 27, 1942 ~ Composer, pianist Frank Mills born in Toronto, Canada, USA ~ Known for his 1979 instrumental Music Box Dancer, a Billboard Hot 100 top 10 hit covered by Floyd Cramer, Richard Clayderman, James Last, and the 101 Strings Orchestra
June 27, 1940 ~ Eugen Ciceu, commonly known as jazz pianist Eugen Cicero, born in Vad, Romania ~ Gave his first performance at age 6 with the the Cluj Symphony Orchestra. Known for introducing swing harmonies into baroque, classical, romantic compositions. Enjoyed popularity since the early-1960s especially in Germany, his adopted homeland, working with orchestras such as the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra and the Munich Philharmonic Orchestra. Recorded prolifically since the mid-1960s. Brother of jazz drummer Adrian Cicero. Father of jazz singer Roger Cicero ~ Ciceu passed away in 1997
June 27, 1935 ~ Bassist, producer Byron Lee, full name Byron Aloysius St Elmo Lee, born in Christiana, Jamaica ~ Best known for fronting calypso, ska outfit the Dragonaires, credited with popularizing Caribbean music. The band appears in Dr No, the very first Bond-film, playing Jamaica Jump Up. As a producer closely associated with Toots & the Maytals, working on many of their single releases. Has also worked with Boris Gardiner (Reggae Happening), Hopeton Lewis (Grooving Out On Life), and the Slickers (Johnny Too Bad) ~ Lee passed away in 2008
June 27, 1934 ~ Ersel O'Hickey, commonly known as rockabilly singer, guitarist, songwriter Ersel Hickey, born in Brighton, New York, USA ~ Best known for his self-penned 1958 hit Bluebirds Over The Mountain, notably covered by Ritchie Valens, the Echoes, the Beach Boys, Ronnie Hawkins, and Robert Plant ~ O'Hickey passed away in 2004
June 27, 1932 ~ Opera singer, actress, TV personality Anna Moffo was born in Wayne, Pennsylvania, USA ~ Nicknamed “La Bellissima” for her beauty. One of the leading lyric-coloratura sopranos of her generation. Worked with the Lyric Opera of Chicago, the Metropolitan Opera, the Vienna State Opera, the Royal Opera House, and the Rome Opera ~ Moffo passed away in 2006
June 27, 1932 ~ Composer Hugh Wood born in Parbold, UK ~ Cites Johann Sebastian Bach as a major influence. Other influences include Arnold Schoenberg and Ludwig van Beethoven. First gained attention with the orchestral work Scenes From Comus, which premiered in 1965. Would go on to produce a vast repertoire of acclaimed work for chamber music, orchestras, violin, cello, string quartets, and cantatas ~ Wood passed away in 2021
June 27, 1931 ~ Clarence Lavonne Fitzgerald, commonly known as pop singer Barry Young, born in Oklahoma, USA ~ Known for two singles and one full-length album, all released in 1966. His rendition of He'll Have To Go would only chart moderately in Canada, where it peaked in the low 60s. One Has My Name (The Other Has My Heart), however, previously a Billboard Country No.1 in 1948 for Jimmy Wakely, reached top 20 Billboard Hot 100. Sadly, his success would be shortlived, his career cut short by his death in December at age 35 of a brain abscess ~ Fitzgerald passed away in 1966
June 27, 1927 ~ John Mayon Walker, commonly known as Chicago blues, electric blues pianist, organist, bassist, singer Johnny Big Moose Walker, born in Stoneville, Mississippi, USA ~ Worked with Ike Turner, Sonny Boy Williamson II, Lowell Fulson, Muddy Waters, Choker Campbell, Elmore James, Earl Hooker, Otis Spann, Sunnyland Slim, Jimmy Dawkins, Son Seals, Mighty Joe Young, Louis Myers, Andrew Odom, John Lee Hooker, Lightnin' Hopkins, and Curtis Jones ~ Walker passed away in 1999
June 27, 1923 ~ Bebop, hard bop pianist Elmo Hope, full name St Elmo Sylvester Hope, born in New York, New York, USA ~ Leader and sideman. Somewhat overlooked pianist due to the subtlety of his playing, strongly influenced by classical music and techniques, in an era focused primarily focused on virtuosity. Influence on contemporaries Bud Powell and Thelonious Monk, both of whom he also collaborated with. Best known for his 1956 Informal Jazz album featuring Donald Byrd, John Coltrane, Hank Mobley, Paul Chambers and Philly Joe Jones ~ Hope passed away in 1967
June 27, 1917 ~ Benjamin Hozer, commonly known as songwriter, composer, arranger Ben Homer born in Meriden, Connecticut, USA ~ Perhaps best known for co-writing a number of 1940 hits for bandleader Les Brown, notably My Number One Dream Came True and Sentimental Journey, both originally recorded by Brown in the mid-1940s with singer Doris Day. The latter song would become a standard covered by well over 300 artists including Ella Fitzgerald, the Chordettes, Conway Twitty, the Ink Spots, and the Platters ~ Homer passed away in 1975
June 27, 1916 ~ Jazz, swing guitarist Robert Normann, full name Robert Uno Normann, born in Borge, Norway ~ Influenced by Teddy Wilson and Chu Berry. Also plays accordion, banjo and saxophone. Considered a pioneer on the jazz guitar. Worked with Freddy Valier, String Swing, Gunnar Due, Pete Brown, Alf Prøysen, and Sigbjørn Bernhoft Osa. Turned down offers from Benny Goodman and Barney Kessel ~ Normann passed away in 1998
June 27, 1913 ~ James Elton Baker, commonly known as country singer, guitarist, songwriter Elton Britt, born in Marshall, Arkansas, USA ~ Enjoyed a career spanning three decades, recording over 50 albums from the early-1940s until his death in 1972. Best known for his wartime top 10 hit There's A Star-Spangled Banner Waving Somewhere, selling over a million copies by 1944 making Britt the first country artist to be awarded a gold record. Other well known songs include Someday (You'll Want Me To Want You), Detour, Chime Bells, Maybe I'll Cry Over You, and Pinto Pal ~ Baker passed away in 1972
June 27, 1910 ~ Lester Rallingston Collins, commonly known as jazz trumpeter Shad Collins, born in Elizabeth, New Jersey, USA ~ In-demand sideman from the 1930s through the 1950s. First gained attention as member of Charlie Dixon's band, which at the time also featured singer Cora LaRedd. Collins would go on to work backing the likes of Chick Webb, Benny Carter, Don Redman, Count Basie, Freddie Moore, and Lester Young. Also well known for working with Cab Calloway, joining Calloway's ensemble as replacement for Dizzy Gillespie. Collins has also worked with Buster Harding, Al Sears, Jimmy Rushing, and Sam Taylor ~ Collins passed away in 1978
June 27, 1906 ~ Singer, actor Alberto Rabagliati born in Milan, Italy ~ Moved to Hollywood in 1927 as the winner of a Rudolph Valentino-lookalike contest but his international acting career never took off and returned to Italy foru years later. Briefly sang with Pippo Barzizza's orchestra before joining the ensemble the Lecuona Cuban Boys. Rose to notoriety through his solo work on the state radio station EIAR in the 1940s. At the time anything foreign was banned yet Rabagliati was alllowed to maintain his American-influenced style. Well-known songs include Ma L'Amore No, Mattinata Fiorentina, Ba-ba=baciami Piccina, Silenzioso Slow, and Bambina Innamorata. His fame as a singer would help restart his acting career, appearing in over a dozen films through the mid-1960s ~ Rabagliati passed away in 1974
June 27, 1897 ~ Composer, bandleader Maceo Pinkard born in Bluefield, West Virginia, USA ~ Perhaps best remembered for co-penning Sweet Georgia Brown, a No.1 hit for Ben Bernie in 1925. The song has since become a jazz standard recorded by over an estimated 1,000 artists including Cab Calloway, Art Tatum, Charlie Parker, Anita O'Day, Nancy Sinatra, Roberta Flack, and Danny Gatton. Other songs written or co-written by Pinkard include Those Draftin' Blues (Arthur Collins, Skeets Tolbert), Pile Of Logs And Stone (Clarence Williams), Give Me A Little Kiss (Will Ya Huh) (Ed Smalle, Jean Goldkette, Louis Prima), Sugar (Ethel Waters, Alberta Hunter, Peggy Lee), I'll Be A Friend With Pleasure (Bix Beiderbecke, Eddie Condon), and Them There Eyes (Hal Kemp, Billie Holiday, Frankie Avalon) ~ Pinkard passed away in 1962
June 27, 1897 ~ Antonio Sparbaro, commonly known as jazz drummer Tony Sbarbaro, born in New Orleans, Louisiana, USA ~ Best known as drummer and last remaining original member of the Original Dixieland Jazz Band, remaining with the band from 1917 until its disbandement over 5 decades later. Wrote or co-wrote several of the band's well known songs, notably Mourning Blues. Sbarbaro has also worked with the Frayle Brothers, Papa Jack Laine, Merritt Brunies, Carl Randall, Miff Mole, Big Chief Russell Moore, Pee Wee Erwin, and Eddie Condon ~ Sbarbaro passed away in 1969
June 27, 1874 ~ Actor, producer, songwriter John Golden, full name John Lionel Golden, born in New York, New York, USA ~ As a songwriter perhaps best known for co-writing Poor Butterfly with Raymond Hubbell. The song was inspired by the Giacomo Puccini-opera Madame Butterfly and written for the Broadway show The Big Show, in which it was introduced by Sophie Bernard. Over time it would be recorded by well over 300 artists, including early versions in the mid-1910s by Elizabeth Spencer and Edna Brown, as well as later versions by Paul Whiteman, Sarah Vaughan, Sonny Rollins, Tony Bennett, and Johnny Mathis. Golden has co-written or co-produced well over 50 plays, including musicals, and a handful of films ~ Golden passed away in 1955