March 1, 2023 ~ Ranchera, corrido singer, actress Irma Serrano, full name Irma Consuelo Cielo Serrano Castro, passed away ~ Began her career as a dancer, to become one of the most popular folk singers of the 1960s. Dubbed “la Tigressa” for her tantalizing, untamed spitfire voice. Well known for La Martina, considered a contemporary classic song of Mexican folk. Ventured into acting for film, appearing in over a dozen films, and stage, often causing controversy. Served as senator for her home state of Chiapas during the late 1990s ~ Serrano was born in 1933
March 1, 2023 ~ Jazz clarinetist Wally Fawkes, full name Walter Ernest Fawkes, passed away in London, UK ~ Influenced by Sidney Bechet. Self-taught jazz clarinetist. First gained attention working with jazz revivalist George Webb in the 1940s. Would go on to work with Humphrey Lyttelton, who became a life-long friend. Has also collaborated with George Melly and John Chilton through the early 1970s. Also known as a political satirical cartoonist, noted for the comic Flook which ran in the Daily Mail for over three decades ~ Fawkes was born in 1924
March 1, 2022 ~ Trombonist, actor Conrad Janis passed away ~ Best known for playing the role of Frederick McConnell, Mindy's father on the sitcom Mork & Mindy. As a musician known for keeping traditional jazz alive working with James P Johnson, Henry Goodwin, Edmond Hall, Baby Dodds, and others ~ Janis was born in 1928
March 1, 2022 ~ Warner McPherson, commonly known as country, country blues, gospel singer Warner Mack, passed away in Nashville, Tennessee, USA ~ Active from the 1950 through the 1970s, enjoying his biggest successes in the 1960s. Well known songs include Is It Wrong For Loving You, Sittin' In An All-nite Cafe, The Bridge Washed Out, Sittin' On A Rock (Cryin' In A River), Talkin' To The Wall, It Takes A Lot Of Money, How Long Will It Take and Leave My Dream Alone ~ McPherson was born in 1935
March 1, 2021 ~ Jazz drummer, bandleader, occasional trumpeter Ralph Peterson Jr passed away in Dartmouth, Massachusetts, USA ~ Four of Peterson's uncles and his grandfather were drummers. Ralph himself starter at age 3. He applied to college to study drums but failed the exam. He enrolled as trumpeter instead, graduating in 1984. Worked with Art Blakey, Donald Harrison, Walter Davis Jr, Tom Harrell, Out Of The Blue, Branford Marsalis, Craig Harris, James Spaulding, Roy Hargrove, Jon Faddis, Dewey Redman, Mark Helias, Wynton Marsalis, Jack Walrath, Craig Handy, Charles Lloyd, Kip Hanrahan, Bheki Mseleku, Courtney Pine, Steve Coleman, George Colligan, Stanley Cowell, Mark Shim, Betty Carter, and others. Has recorded as a leader since the late 1980s, heading the quintet Volition, with Terence Blanchard, Steve Wilson, Geri Allen and Phil Bowler ~ Peterson was born in 1962
March 1, 2019 ~ Conductor Joseph Flummerfelt passed away in Indianapolis, Indiana, USA ~ Best known as co-founder of Spoleto Festival USA, serving as its director through 2013 ~ Flummerfelt was born in 1937
March 1, 2019 ~ Paul Nigel Vincent Yarlett, commonly known as singer Paul Williams, passed away ~ Member of Zoot Money. Subsequently worked with John Mayall & the Bluesbreakers, taking over for John McVie and present on the albums Looking Back and Thru The Years. Member of Juicy Lucy. Member of Tempest, appearing on the band's 1973 eponymous Tempest album. Has also worked with Aynsley Dunbar, Dick Heckstall-Smith, and Allan Holdsworth ~ Yarlett was born in 1940
March 1, 2017 ~ Singer, guitarist Hiroshi Kamayatsu passed away ~ Co-founded 1960s rock band the Spiders, best known for their Yuhiganaiteiru hit single. Co-founded Vodka Collins, one of the first Japanese glamrock outfits known best for Sands Of Time released in 1973. Also recorded as a solo artist, notably RTB for the anime series Sentou Yousei Yukikaze, and worked with Sans Filtre ~ Kamayatsu was born in 1939
March 1, 2017 ~ Poet, lyricist Raajesh Johri passed away in Mumbai, India ~ As a lyricist best known for co-writing Pari Hoon Main for Suneeta Rao, and Colonial Cousins for Hariharan & Leslee Lewis ~ Johri was born in 1952
March 1, 2016 ~ Singer Gayle McCormick passed away in St Louis, Missouri, USA ~ Best known as lead singer of Smith. After the band disbanded McCormick released a number of solo albums, starting with 1971's eponymous Gayle McCormick album ~ McCormick was born in 1948
March 1, 2015 ~ Producer, label executive Orrin Keepnews passed away in El Cerrito, California, USA ~ Founded or co-founded Riverstone Records, Milestone Records, and Landmark Records. Worked with artists including Thelonious Monk, Cannonball Adderley, Nat Adderley, Wes Montgomery, Johnny Griffin, Jimmy Heath, Joe Henderson, McCoy Tyner, Lee Konitz, Gary Bartz, Blue Mitchell, and others. The Bill Evans composition Re Person I Knew is a tribute to Keepnews, the title being an anagram of his name ~ Keepnews was born in 1923
March 1, 2013 ~ Singer, songwriter, producer Jewel Akens, full name Jewel Eugene Akens, passed away in Inglewood, California, USA ~ Worked with the Medallions, the Four Dots, Eddie Daniels, Eddie Cochran, and others. As a solo artist best known for his 1965 hit record The Birds And The Bees ~ Akens was born in 1933
March 1, 2013 ~ Blues rock guitarist Jim Murray passed away ~ Original member of psychedelic blues rock band Quicksilver Messenger Service, leaving the band in late 1967 shortly before they recorded their debut album. Has also worked with John Cipollina's post-Quicksilver band Copperhead ~ Murray was born in 1942
March 1, 2012 ~ Singer, clarinetist, keyboardist, actor, songwriter Lucio Dalla passed away in Montreux, Switzerland ~ Perhaps best remembered for penning Caruso, a tribute to opera tenor Enrico Caruso ~ Dalla was born in 1943
March 1, 2006 ~ Actor, singer Jack Wild passed away in Tebworth, UK ~ Best known as an actor, landing his first major role portraying the Artful Dodger in the 1968 musical drama Oliver. As a singer and recording artist has released a number of albums, starting with This Is Jack Wild in 1970 ~ Wild was born in 1952
March 1, 1995 ~ Zak David Zilesnick, commonly known as op, R&B, tropical singer, songwriter Zak Abel, born in UK ~ Best known as featured vocalist on Gorgon City's 2014 UK top 20 hit Unmissable. Released his full-length Only When We're Naked debut album in 2017
March 1, 1994 ~ Singer Justin Bieber, full name Justin Drew Bieber, born in Stratford, Canada ~ Teen idol. Protegé of Ludacris. Released his full-length My World 2.0 debut album in 2010. Known for songs such as Baby, Boyfriend, As Long As You Love Me featuring Big Sean, Beauty And A Beat featuring Nicki Minaj, Where R U Now featuring Jack U, What Do You Mean, Sorry, Love Yourself, I Don't Care featuring Ed Sheeran, Stuck With U featuring Ariana Grande, Lonely featuring Benny Blanco, and others
March 1, 1993 ~ Singer, songwriter Michele Merlo born in Rosa, Italy ~ First gained attention in 2017 as contestant on the Italian talent show Amici. Would release his debut album, Cinemaboy, in 2019 and a sophomore album, Cuori Stupidi, in 2020. Passed away at age 28 following complications related to leukemia ~ Merlo passed away in 2021
March 1, 1991 ~ Keyboardist, arranger Frank Esler Smith passed away in Melbourne, Australia ~ Member of soft rock outfit Air Supply, known for songs such as Lost In Love, All Out Of Love and Every Woman In The World ~ Esler-Smith was born in 1948
March 1, 1990 ~ Singer, keyboardist Melissa Reese born in Seattle, Washington, USA ~ Released her Lissa debut EP in 2007. Best known as member of Guns 'n Roses, joining the band in 2016 replacing Chris Pitman first performing on the Not In This Lifetime tour. Has also collaborated with Bootsy Collins, Chuck D, Vanessa Carlton, Goapele, and Taylor Swift
March 1, 1989 ~ Aaron McCain, commonly known as Christian hip-hop rapper Canon, born in Chicago, Illinois, USA ~ Mentored by Lecrae. Also known for his associations with Derek Minor and with 116 Clique. Has also recorded as a solo artist, starting with the album Mad Haven released in 2013
March 1, 1989 ~ Chicago blues drummer Odie Payne passed away in Chicago, Illinois, USA ~ Worked with a wide array of musicians including Sonny Boy Williamson II, Muddy Waters, Jimmy Rogers, Eddie Taylor, Johnny Jones, Tampa Red, Otis Rush, Yank Rachell, Sleepy John Estes, Little Brother Montgomery, Memphis Minnie, Magic Sam, Chuck Berry (including on Nadine, You Never Can Tell, and on No Particulr Place To Go), Buddy Guy, Elmore James, and others. Co-wrote Willie Dixon's Say Man, also recorded by Willie Mabon ~ Payne was born in 1926
March 1, 1988 ~ Pearl Dee Jones, commonly known as country singer Pearl Butler, passed away in Franklin, Tennessee, USA ~ Recorded and performed as husband-wife duo Carl Butler & Pearl with Pearl Butler, known for country hits such as Too Late To Try Again, My Tears Don't Show and their biggest hit Don't Let Me Cross Over. ~ Jones was born in 1927
March 1, 1988 ~ Double bassist Tommy Potter passed away ~ Best known as a member of Charlie Parker's classic quintet, alongside Miles Davis, from 1947 to 1950. Potter also worked with Earl Hines, Artie Shaw, Bud Powell, Count Basie, Sonny Rollins, Stan Getz, Max Roach, Eddie Heywood, Tyree Glenn, Harry Sweets Edison, Buck Clayton, Charles Lloyd, Gene Ammons, Al Cohn, Tommy Flanagan, Jimmy Forrest, Willis Jackson, Jo Jones, Cecil Payne, Freddie Redd, Sonny Stitt, Phil Woods, and others ~ Potter was born in 1918
March 1, 1987 ~ Swing jazz guitarist Freddie Green, full name Frederick William Green, passed away in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA ~ Leader and sideman. Worked with Count Basie, Cat Anderson, Benny Goodman, Fats Waller, Walter Page, Duke Ellington, Johnny Goodman, Buck Clayton, Al Cohn, Paul Quinichette, Joe Newman, Sarah Vaughan, Lorez Alexandria, Bob Brookmeyer, Judy Carmichael, Harry Sweets Edison, Al Grey, Coleman Hawkins, Jo Jones, Gerry Mulligan, Charlie Parker, Buddy Rich, Charlie Rouse, Diane Schuur, Teri Thornton, Eddie Cleanhead Vinson, Frank Wess, and others ~ Green was born in 1911
March 1, 1987 ~ Kesha Rose Sebert, mononymously known as dance-pop, pop singer, guitarist, keyboardist, songwriter Ke$ha born in Los Angeles, California, USA ~ Known for top 10 hits such as Tik Tok, Blah Blah Blah featuring 3OH!3, Your Love Is My Drug, Take It Off, Blow, Die Young, We R Who We R, and others
March 1, 1987 ~ Sammie Lee Bush Jr, mononymously known as singer, songwriter Sammie, born in Boyton Beach, Florida, USA ~ Best known for his 1999 hit I Like It of his From The Bottom To The Top debut album. Has collaborated with Lil' Bow Wow, Lil' Wayne, Lil' Zane, Dallas Austin, Soulja Boy, Eric Bellinger, and others
March 1, 1983 ~ Techno, electronic, minimalist DJ, composer Kensuke Ushio born in Tokyo, Japan ~ Member of Lama, present on both the band's albums New and Modanica released in the early 2010s. As a solo artist best known for a number of EBM albums, starting with A Day (Phase) released in 2008
March 1, 1982 ~ Trumpeter, bandleader Charlie Spivak passed away ~ Served as sideman in bands led by Paul Specht, Ben Pollack, the Dorsey Brothers, Ray Noble, Glenn Miller, Raymond Scott, Bob Crosby, Jack Teagarden. Started his own band by the end of the 1930s, remaining one of the most popular bandleader through the late 1950s, employing sidemen such as Dave Tough, Jimmy Middleton, Les Elgart, Paul Fredricks, Don Raffell, Jimmy Knepper, June Hutton, and Irene Daye, marrying the latter in 1950 ~ Spivak was born ca.1907
March 1, 1981 ~ Guitarist Sean Woolstenhulme born in Gilbert, Arizona, USA ~ Member of the Calling from 1996 through 2002, present on the Billboard Hot 100 top 10 hit Wherever You Will Go taken of the band's Camino Palmero debut album. After departing the band in 2002 Woolstenhulme has worked with Lifehouse, which also included his brother drummer Rick Woolstenhulme
March 1, 1976 ~ Jazz vibraphonist, percussionist, guitarist, producer Andreas Mjøs born in Tønsberg, Norway ~ Worked with Jagga Jazzist, Rotoscope, In The Country, Anne Grete Preus, Susanna & the Magical Orchestra, and others
March 1, 1976 ~ Folk rock, indie rock singer, guitarist, keyboardist, songwriter Jonathan Meiburg born in Baltimore, Maryland, USA ~ Lead singer, songwriter of Shearwater, best known for their 2006 acclaimed Palo Santa album. Has also worked with Okkervil River, Bill Callahan, Blue Water White Death, Sharon van Etten, Wye Oak, Thor Harris, Hospital Ships, Whu Gnu, Loma, and others
March 1, 1975 ~ Jazz, pop singer Valentina Monetta born in San Marino, San Marino ~ Represented her native San Marino several times in the Eurovision Songfestival, only reaching the finals in 2014 when she reached 10th place with Maybe
March 1, 1974 ~ Jazz pianist, composer Bobby Timmons passed away in New York, New York, USA ~ Undervalued pianist and composer. During his tenure with Art Blakey, Timmons wrote or co-wrote several classics first recorded by Blakey, including Moanin', and Dat Dere. Helped developed the soul jazz style. As a sideman Timmons has worked with jazz greats including Pepper Adams, Arnett Cobb, Maynard Ferguson, Art Farmer, Dexter Gordon, Gloria Lynne, Hank Mobley, Anthony Ortega, Dizzy Reece, and Cannonball Adderley, including on the 1959 live LP The Cannonball Adderley Quintet In San Francisco, arguably one of the finest jazz live albums of the era. Timmons also recorded extensively as a leader from late 1950s to late 1960s, backed by musicians such as Wayne Shorter, Jimmy Cobb, Ron Carter, Albert Tootie Heath, Butch Warren, Albert Tootie Heath, and others ~ Timmons was born in 1935
March 1, 1970 ~ Lucille Nelson, commonly known as singer Lucille Hegamin, passed away in New York, New York, USA ~ Married to pianist, composer Bill Hegamin, with whom she also worked. In 1920 became the second African-American blues singer to record, after Mamie Smith. Known for songs such as Arkansas Blues, Easy Going Mamma (Don't Play Hard To Get With Me), and Jazz Me Blues. Worked with the Leonard Harper Minstrel Stock Company, Tony Jackson, Jelly Roll Morton, the Blue Syncapotors, Jimmy Wade, Clarence Williams, Willie The Lion Smith, and others ~ Nelson was born in 1894
March 1, 1968 ~ Jazz drummer Per Oddvar Johansen born in Oslo, Norway ~ Worked with Trygve Seim, Christian Wallumrød, the Source, Solveig Slettahjell, Vigleik Storaas, Torbjørn Sunde, Lars Andreas Haug, Kjersti Stubø, Per Zanussi, Kenny Wheeler, Havard Wilk, and others
March 1, 1967 ~ Songwriter, pianist Dave Dreyer passed away in New York, New York, USA ~ Worked with artists such as Al Jolson, Sophie Tucker, Belle Baker, Frank Fay, and others ~ Dreyer was born in 1894
March 1, 1965 ~ Saxophonist, violinist Boyd Atkins passed away in Cook County, Illinois, USA ~ Worked with Fate Marable, Dewey Jackson, Kid Ory, Earl Hines, Carroll Dickerson, Louis Armstrong, the Firecrackers, Eli Rice, Rook Ganz, the Society Swingsters, Elmore James, Magic Sam, and others ~ Atkins was born ca.1900
March 1, 1964 ~ British pop, rock group the Beatles record I'm Happy Just To Dance With You at EMI Studios, London, UK ~ Written by John Lennon and Paul McCartney. Produced by George Martin. Written for use in the A Hard Day's Night feature film, and written specifically to be sung by George Harrison who also plays lead guitar. Also used as the B-side to I'll Cry Instead
March 1, 1963 ~ Andrew Jacob Hiebert, commonly known as neo-swing singer, bandleader, songwriter Big Rude Jake, born i St Catharines, Canada ~ Toronto scene cult hero. Primarily categorized as a neo-swing irony-laden troubadour, drawing from blues, rock, rockabilly, jazz, and other idioms. Some 10 albums to his name, starting with Butane Fumes & Bad Cologne released in 1993. Noteworthy is also 2002's Live Faust Die Jung which was never officially released. Semi-retired from music for a while in the 2000s. Has briefly used the moniker Chet Valiant aiming to keep a low profile ~ Hiebert passed away in 2022
March 1, 1963 ~ Rock, folk, pop, children's music singer, guitarist, songwriter Sara Hickman born in Jacksonville, North Carolina, USA ~ Over a dozen albums to her name, recording since the late 1980s. Known as an avid supporter of various causes and charities, benefitting children, women and health
March 1, 1963 ~ Bernd Weidung, commonly known as singer Thomas Anders, born in Koblenz, West Germany ~ Best known as half of Modern Talking, the other half being Dieter Bohlen, known for 1980s eurodisco hits such as You're My Heart You're My Soul, You Can Win If You Want and Cheri Cheri Lady
March 1, 1962 ~ Rock bassist Bill Leen born ~ Best known for co-founding Gin Blossoms with guitarist Doug Hopkins, best known for their 1992 hit Hey Jealousy of their New Miserable Experience debut album
March 1, 1959 ~ Pop songwriter, producer Erick Benzi born in Marseille, France ~ Member of Canada. Member of El Club. In-demand producer, having worked with artists such as Jean-Jacques Goldman, Céline Dion, Anggun, Florent Pagny, Johnny Hallyday, Yannick Noah, Daniel Lévi, Julien Clerc, Ziskakan, and others
March 1, 1958 ~ Singer, songwriter Nik Kershaw, full name Nicholas David Kershaw, born in Bristol, UK ~ Best known for his first two albums, Human Racing and its followup The Riddle both released in 1984 and spawning a string of UK top 10 hits including Wouldn't It Be Good, I Won't Let The Sun Go Down On Me, The Riddle and Wide Boy. Also wrote for other artists, notably the UK No.1 hit The One And Only for Chesney Hawkes
March 1, 1957 ~ Siblings the Everly Brothers record Bye Bye Love at RCA Studios, Nashville, Tennessee ~ Written by husband and wife team Boudleaux Bryant and Felice Bryant. Released later the same month as the Everly's debut single, b/w I Wonder If I Care As Much, and included on the eponymous The Everly Brothers. Backing musicians: Chet Atkins, Floyd Chance, Buddy Harman. The song would become a classic of the era and be covered by numerous artists, perhaps most notably by George Harrison on his 1974 Dark Horse with some changes to the melody and additional lyrics, lashing out at his wife Patty Boyd who would eventually divorce him and marry Eric Clapton
March 1, 1956 ~ Jazz drummer Kerwood Dennard ~ Leader and sideman. Worked with Dizzy Gillespie, Real Thing, Pat Martino, High Life, Brand X, the Manhattan Transfer, Dianne Reeves, Jaco Pastorius, Lew Soloff, Bob Moses, Stanley Jordan, Miles Davis, Maceo Parker, Quincy Jones, Howard Johnson, Just Advance, the Meta Funk All-Stars, Quintessence, Victor Bailey, Dave Bargeron, Hiram Bullock, Stanton Davis, Marcus Miller, Herman Wright, Stanley Jordan, Sting, Bob Moses, Toninho Horta, Vanessa Williams, Larry Coryell, Rodney Jones, Robin Eubanks, David Fluczynski, and others
March 1, 1956 ~ Singer Ray Price records Crazy Arms ~ Written by Ralph Mooney and Charles Seals, published in 1949. Price's version, paired with You Done Me Wrong on the flipside, would reach the top of the Billboard Country charts giving Price his first No.1 hit. The recording is regarded as one of a select few that defined honky-tonk. It would later be recorded by a wide array of artists including Bing Crosby, Louis Armstrong, Chuck Berry, the Andrews Sisters, Gram Parsons, Patsy Cline, Trini López, Patty Loveless, Marie Osmond, and as a duet by Van Morrison and Linda Gail Lewis
March 1, 1955 ~ Vincenzo Avitabile, commonly known as saxophonist, singer, songwriter Enzo Avitabile, born in Naples, Italy ~ Worked with his backing unit Bottari, with Pino Daniele, Edoardo Bennato, James Brown, Afrika Bambaataa, Tina Turner, David Crosby, Bob Geldof, Franco Battiato, and others
March 1, 1955 ~ Jazz bassist, double bassist Harrison Bankhead, full name Harrison Napoleon Bankhead III, born in Waukegan, Illinois, USA ~ Avant-garde leaning bassist. As a leader known for his acclaimed Morning Sun Harvest Moon album released in 2011. Closely associated with Malachi Thompson, backing the trumpeter on over half a dozen albums starting in the early 1990s. Has also frequently worked with 8 Bold Souls, including on the ensemble's 2000 Last Option masterpiece. Other collaborations include Edward Wilkerson Jr, Michael Mason, Don Bennett, Joel Brandon, and Fred Anderson ~ Bankhead passed away in 2023
March 1, 1954 ~ Flamenco, jazz bassist Carles Benavent born in Barcelona, Spain ~ Founded Musica Urbana. Known for creating a new form of playing the electric bass flamenco style and for popularizing the use of the fretless bass in flamenco music. Has worked with Paco de Lucia, Chick Corea, Miles Davis, Camarón de la Isla, Diego Carrasco, Nguyên Lê, Inaki Sandoval, and others
March 1, 1951 ~ Producer, guitarist, saxophonist, clarinetist, composer Elliott Sharp born in Cleveland, Ohio, USA ~ Leading figure in New York's avant-garde and experimental scene since the 1970s. Over 80 albums to his name, drawing from classical, jazz, experimental, noise, no wave and electronic music. Pioneered the use of computers in live sets. Has worked with Orchestra Carbon, Art Baron, Olu Dara, the Boodlers, Hoosegow, Slan, the Soldier String Quartet, Terraplane, Hubert Sumlin, Zeena Parkins, Bobby Previte, Nels Cline, Mofungo, and others
March 1, 1949 ~ Country singer Hank Williams records Mind Your Own Business at Herzog, Cincinnati, Ohio ~ Written by Hank Williams. Produced by Fred Rose. Paired with There'll Be No Teardrops Tonight on the B-side released the next July. Recorded You're Gonna Change Or I'm Gonna Leave You, My Son Calls Another Man Daddy and Honky Tonk Blues during the same session
March 1, 1949 ~ Samba, pagode singer, guitarist, banjoist, songwriter Jorge Aragão born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil ~ Active since the early 1970s. Founding member of Fundo de Quintal. Released his eponymous Jorge Aragão solo debut album in 1982. Known for songs such as Amigos Amantes, Do Fundo Do Nossa Quintal, Enredo De Meu Samba and Coisinho Do Pai
March 1, 1949 ~ Rock, hard rock drummer Ray Phillips, full name Raymond Anthony Phillips, born in Ely, UK ~ Best known as the original drummer for Budgie, remaining with the band through 1973 and present on the band's first three albums. Subsequently worked with Woman, Tredegar, Six Ton Budgie. Released his sole solo album, Judgement Day in 2011
March 1, 1948 ~ Jazz bassist Konrad Kaspersen born in Tromsø, Norway ~ Worked with Kurt Samuelsen, Kjell Bartholsen, Trygve Henrik Hoff, Tove Karoline Knutsen, Chris Lyngedal, Knut Riisnæs, Per Husby, Øystein Norvoll, Alf Kjellman, Finn Sletten, Jørn Øien, Marit Sandvik, Ragnar Olsen, Dag Kajander, and others
March 1, 1946 ~ Joseph Gaétan Robert Gérald Boulet, commonly known as rock singer, keyboardist, guitarist, trumpeter Gerry Boulet, born in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Canada ~ Best known as singer of Quebec-based rock band Offenbach. Has also recorded as a solo artist, releasing his Preque 40 Ans De Blues debut album in 1985 and its acclaimed follow-up Rendez-Vous Doux in 1989 ~ Boulet passed away in 1990
March 1, 1946 ~ Jazz, avant-garde gazz, free jazz saxophonist, clarinetist, flutist, hornist, bassoonist, composer Vinny Golia born in the Bronx, New York, USA ~ Worked with Anthony Braxton, Henry Grimes, Bobby Bradford, Joëlle Léandre, Wadada Leo Smith, Horace Tapscott, John Zorn, Tim Berne, Bertram Turetzky, Barre Phillips, the Rova Saxophone Quartet, Patti Smith, Eugene Chadbourne, Kevin Ayers, Peter Kowald, John Bergamo, George Gruntz, Misha Mengelberg, Han Bennink, Lydia Lunch, the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra, and others
March 1, 1945 ~ Singer Arlene Harden born in England, Arkansas, USA ~ Member of the Harden Trio, which also included her brother Bobby Harden and sister Robbie Harden. As a solo artist known for a string of mid-1960s to 1970s singles, most notably a 1970 cover of Roy Orbison's Oh Pretty Woman reworked to Lovin' Man (Oh Pretty Woman)
March 1, 1945 ~ Winston Rodney, commonly known as reggae, dub, roots reggae singer Burning Spear, born in St Ann's Bay, Jamaica ~ Influential roots reggae singer. Cited as an influence by Curtis Mayfield. Known for songs such as Marcus Garvey, Slavery Days and Live It Out
March 1, 1945 ~ Peter Hodgson, commonly known as folk singer, guitarist, songwriter, actor Sneezy Waters, born in Toronto, Canada ~ Perhaps best known for his portrayal of Hank Williams in the play and film Hank Williams: The Show He Never Gave
March 1, 1945 ~ Sven Ove Hedlund, commonly known as pop singer Svenne Hedlund, born in Solna, Sweden ~ Member of the Clifftones and perhaps most notably the Hep Stars, the latter propelling Hedlund to national fame. The band is known for 1960s hits such as Farmer John, Cadillac, Bald Headed Woman, Sunny Girl, Wedding, Consolation, and Malaika. Hedlund was married to bandmate Lotta Hedlund from 1969 through 2014, the couple also forming the musical duo Svenne & Lotta ~ Hedlund passed away in 2022
March 1, 1944 ~ Singer Michael d'Abo, full name Michael David d'Abo, born in Betchworth, UK ~ Lead singer of Manfred Mann from 1966 through 1969, present on UK top 10 hits such as Semi-detached Suburban Mr James, Ha Ha Said The Clown, and The Mighty Quinn. Wrote Handbags And Gladrags, first recorded by Chris Farlowe and notably covered by Rod Stewart. Co-wrote Build Me Up Buttercup, a hit for the Foundations. Has also recorded as a solo artist, starting with his eponymous d'Abo album released in 1970
March 1, 1943 ~ Singer, guitarist, songwriter Piet Veerman born in Volendam, the Netherlands ~ Member of the Cats, known for songs such as Times Were When, Be My Day, The End Of The Show, and perhaps their best-known Sure He's A Cat. Sang lead on al the band's singles since 1968. As a solo artist known for Walking Together and his biggest hit Sailing Home released in 1987
March 1, 1943 ~ Rock singer, guitarist Roger Daltrey, full name Roger Harry Daltrey, born in Hammersmith, UK ~ Lead singer of the Who, noted for songs such as My Generation, Pinball Wizard, Won't Get Fooled Again, and Baba O'Riley. Has enjoyed a parallel solo career, starting with the eponymous Daltrey released in 1973
March 1, 1942 ~ Singer Jerry Fisher, full name Jerry Donald Fisher, born in DeKalb, Texas, USA ~ Best known as lead singer of Blood Sweat & Tears from 1971 through 1975, present on the albums New Blood, No Sweat and Mirror Image
March 1, 1942 ~ Jazz drummer Leo Adde passed away ~ Played with Raymond Burke, Albert Brunies, Johnny Miller, Johnny Bayersdorffer, the New Orleans Rhytm Kings, the Melody Masters, Sharkey Bonano, Leon Prima, the New Orleans Owls, and others ~ Adde was born in 1904
March 1, 1942 ~ Guitarist, keyboardist, bandleader, songwriter Ralph Towner born in Chehalis, Washington, USA ~ Leader and sideman. Worked with Paul Winter, Jeremy Steig, Eddie Gomez, Marc Johnson, Gary Peacock, Jack DeJohnette, Paul McCandles, Glen Moore, Collin Walcott, Oregon, the Weather Report, Horace Arnold, Azimuth, Bill Bruford, Robben Ford, Pino Daniele, Cyrus Faryar, Egberto Gismonti, Trilok Gurtu, Charlie Haden, Maria João, Joseph Loduca, Keith Jarrett, Terry Plumenn, Duke Pearson, Vince Mendoza, Michel Portal, Kenny Wheeler, and others
March 1, 1941 ~ Jazz, blues drummer Michel Dennis born in Boulogne-Billancourt, France ~ Worked with the Roman Dixieland Jazz Band, Don Byas, Dominique Chanson, Bill Coleman, Michel de Villers, Earl Hines, Stuff Smith, Rex Stewart, Memphis Slim, Paul Gonsalves, Johnny Griffin, Claude Guilhot, John Lee Hooker, Michel Sardaby, T-Bone Walker, Big Joe Williams, Dany Doris, Peter Compo, Philippe Milante, Spanky Wilson, and others
March 1, 1940 ~ Jazz bassist Gene Perla born in Woodcliff, New Jersey, USA ~ Worked with Woody Herman, Elvin Jones, Sonny Rollins, Sarah Vaughan, Thad Jones, Mel Lewis, Frank Foster, Jeremy Steig, and with Mickey Tucker. Co-founded the Stone Alliance with Don Alias and Steve Grossman. Founded his own label PM Records
March 1, 1939 ~ Singer Warren Davis born in Newark, New Jersey, USA ~ Member of doo-wop outfit the Monotones, known for their 1958 Billboard Hot 100 top 10 hit The Book Of Love
March 1, 1932 ~ Jazz clarinetist, saxophonist Frank Teschemacher passed away in Chicago, Illinois, USA ~ Also played violin and banjo. Worked with the Austin High School Gang, Jimmy McPartland, Bud Freeman, Charlie Straight, Jan Garber, Wild Bill Davison, and others ~ Teschemacher was born in 1906
March 1, 1932 ~ Saxophonist, drummer, bandleader, songwriter, producer Oliver Sain born in Dunded, Mississippi, USA ~ Worked with Sonny Boy Williamson II, Howlin' Wolf, Little Milton, Ike Turner, Fontella Bass, Bobby McClure, Julius Hemphill, the Montclais, and others ~ Sain passed away in 2003
March 1, 1930 ~ Trombonist Benny Powell born in New Orleans, Louisiana, USA ~ Leader and sideman. Worked with Lionel Hampton, Count Basie, the American Jazz Orchestra, Thad Jones, Mel Lewis, Abdullah Ibrahim, John Carter, Randy Weston, Pepper Adams, Gene Ammons, Donald Byrd, Benny Carter, Buck Clayton, Hank Crawford, Frank Foster, Al Grey, Eddie Harris, Jimmy Heath, Johnny Hodges, JJ Johnson, Philly Joe Jones, Clifford Jordan, Bobby Blue Bland, BB King, Melba Liston, Herbie Mann, Les McCann, David Newman, Chico O'Farrill, Joe Newman, Moacir Santos, Frank Wess, Gerald Wilson, and others ~ Powell passed away in 2010
March 1, 1929 ~ Jazz double bassist Eddie Jones born in Greenwood, Mississippi, USA ~ Best known for his association with Count Basie, joining the Count Basie Orchestra in 1953 and backing Basie in several ensembles through 1962. Has also worked with Dorothy Ashby, Bob Brookmeyer, Kenny Clarke, Jimmy Cleveland, Al Grey, Coleman Hawkins, Milt Jackson, Joe Newman, Paul Quinichette, Buddy Tate, Eddie Cleanhead Vinson, and with the Jones Boys, the latter a one-off put together by Quincy Jones of musicians named Jones but all unrelated ~ Jones passed away in 1997
March 1, 1929 ~ Clifton Howard Vandevender, commonly known as country singer, guitarist, songwriter Van Howard, born in Grady, New Mexico, USA ~ Best known for fronting Ray Price's backing unit the Cherokee Cowboys from 1954 through 1958. Also worked with Jim Reeves, Johnny & Jack, Slim Whitman, Faron Young, Webb Pierce, Red Sovine, Hank Williams, Lefty Frizzell, and others ~ Vandevender passed away in 2012
March 1, 1928 ~ Singer Paul Robeson, backed by Paul Whiteman & his Orchestra, record Ol' Man River at Liederkranz Hall, New York, New York ~ Written by Jerome Kern and Oscar Hammerstein II for the 1927 musical Show Boat, introduced by Jules Bledsoe. The song would become the most famous song of the musical and remain popular to this day. Whiteman had recorded a previous version in early 1928 featuring Bing Crosby and cornetist Bix Beiderbecke. The second version, featuring Paul Robeson, sung in a dance tempo would also be a hit, and eventually be inducted in the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2006
March 1, 1928 ~ Singer, producer, label exective Willie Mitchell, full name William Lawrence Mitchell, born in Ashland, Mississippi, USA ~ A popular bandleader Mitchell signed to Hi-Records as both a producer and as a recording artist best known for he 1968 single Soul Serenade. His greatest claim to fame came however by taking over the reins at the label in 1970 and establishing the “Hi Sound”. As a label executive and producer Mitchell was pivotal to the careers of OV Wright, Syl Johnson, Ann Peebles, Quiet Elegance and especially Al Green. Mitchell produced or co-produced albums such as Peebles' 1974 I Can't Stand The Rain album, noted for the title track I Can't Stand The Rain and I'm Gonna Tear Your Playhouse Down, as well as just about every single one of Green's 1970s albums containing hits such as Tired Of Being Alone, Let's Stay Together, I'm Still In Love With You and Call Me (Come Back Home), and numerous others ~ Mitchell passed away in 2010
March 1, 1927 ~ Harold George Bellanfanti Jr, commonly known as singer Harry Belafonte, born in New York, New York, USA ~ Influenced by Paul Robeson. Close friend and confidant of Martin Luther King Jr. Though he also sang blues, folk, pop, gospel and show tunes, Belafonte is dubbed “the King of Calypso” for his role in popularizing calypso. Critically acclaimed for the 1956 million-seller album Calypso, which spawned his biggest hit and signature song Day-O (Banana Boat Song), and his 1959 Belafonte At Carnegie Hall live album. Advocate for several political and humanitarian causes, including serving as the ACLU celebrity ambassador for juvenile justice issues. Starred in over two dozen films, notably Carmen Jones, Island In The Sun, and Odds Against Tomorrow ~ Bellanfanti passed away in 2023
March 1, 1926 ~ Singer, actor, author, TV personality Erik Bye, full name Erik Erikkson Bye, born in Brooklyn, New York, USA ~ Son of operatic baritone Erik Ole Bye. Member of Norway's Resistance during World War II. Became one of Norway's most favorite TV personalities. Passionate supporter of sailors, in particular Norway's Society for Sea Rescue and their cause ~ Bye passed away in 2004
March 1, 1922 ~ Joseph Baque, commonly known as jazz, bebop pianist Joe Baque, born in Queens, New York, USA ~ Sideman active since his late teens. Present on albums by Claudia Wheeler (The Price Is Right), Bert Wilson, the Electric Park Jazz Band, Greta Matassa (If The Moon Turns Green), LaVon Hardison, and others ~ Baque passed away in 2022
March 1, 1921 ~ Trumpeter, cornetist, hornist Kenny Baker born in Withernsea, UK ~ Leader and sideman. Worked with George Chisholm, Ted Heath, Jack Parnell, Don Lusher, Betty Smith, Frank Sinatra, Petula Clark, Sammy Davis Jr, Tony Bennett, and others ~ Baker passed away in 1999
March 1, 1920 ~ Jazz drummer Charlie Rice, full name Charles R Rice, born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA ~ Worked with Jimmy Oliver, Vance Wilson, Bob Bushnell, Red Garland, Johnny Hughes, Eddie Cleanhead Vinson, Jimmy Heath, John Coltrane, Oscar Pettiford, Rudy Williams, Clifton Best, JJ Johnson, Howard McGhee, Sonny Stitt, Eddie Lockjaw Davis, Leo Parker, Chet Baker, and others ~ Rice passed away in 2018
March 1, 1917 ~ Jazz trumpeter, singer, bandleader Aime Barelli born in Lantosque, France ~ Leader and sideman. Father of singer Minouche Barelli. Worked with Fred Adison, Alix Combelle, Andre Ekyan, Maceo Jefferson, Raymond Legrand, Hubert Rostaing, Raymond Wraskoff, Dizzy Gillespie, Sidney Bechet, Charlie Parker, Django Reinhardt, and others ~ Barelli passed away in 1995
March 1, 1917 ~ Clifford Gilpin Snyder, commonly known as country singer, producer, publisher, radio and TV personality Cliffie Stone, born in Stockton, California, USA ~ A&R executive for Capitol Records in the 1940s, discovered and managed Tennessee Ernie Ford. Host of several radio and TV shows. Recorded half a dozen albums as a singer. Best known for The Popcorn Song, a Billboard top 20 hit in 1955 ~ Snyder passed away in 1998
March 1, 1917 ~ Country, Western swing guitarist, steel guitarist Leon McAuliffe, full name William Leon McAuliffe, born in Houston, Texas, USA ~ Best known as a member of Bob Wills' pivotal the Texas Playboys backing unit during the 1930s. Co-wrote San Antonio Rose. Also wrote Steel Guitar Rag, a hit for Robert Lee Dunn. Also worked with the Light Crust Doughboys and the Cimarron Boys ~ McAuliffe passed away in 1988
March 1, 1914 ~ Swing drummer Barrett Deems born in Springfield, Illinois, USA ~ Worked with Jimmy Dorsey, Louis Armstrong, Red Norvo, Muggsy Spanier, and notably the Dukes Of Dixieland ~ Deems passed away in 1998
March 1, 1912 ~ Rhythm guitarist Joseph Reinhardt born in Paris, France ~ Pioneered the amplified jazz guitar in France. Baby brother of Django Reinhardt, with whom he also worked especially on the the Quintette du Hot Club recordings from the 1930s. Has also recorded as a solo artists and collaborated with Stéphane Grappelli ~ Reinhardt passed away in 1982
March 1, 1907 ~ Boogie-woogie pianist Albert Ammons born in Chicago, Illinois, USA ~ Influenced by Chicago pianists Hershal Thomas and Jimmy Yancey Ammons, along with other high-energy boogie-woogie, blues, jazz, and jump-blues musicians, helped create a hybrid which predated and paved the way for rock & roll. Ammons worked with artists such as Meade Lux Lewis, Guy Kelly, DAlbert Bright, Jimmy Hoskins, Israel Crosby, Pete Johnson, Benny Goodman, Harry James, Lena Horne, Lionel Hampton, and others. Ammons would be a major influence on generations of piano players to come including Jerry Lee Lewis, Dr John, Erroll Garner, Ray Bryant, Johnnie Johnson, and Axel Zwingenberger ~ Ammons passed away in 1949
March 1, 1904 ~ Swing, big band trombonist, bandleader Glenn Miller, full name Alton Glenn Miller, born in Clarinda, Iowa, USA ~ One of the best-selling artists of the swing era, known for songs such as In The Mood, Moonlight Serenade, Pennsylvania 6-5000, Chattanooga Choo Choo, A String Of Pearls, At Last, I've Got A Gal In Kalamazoo, American Patrol, Tuxedo Junction, Elmer's Tune and Little Brown Jug ~ Miller passed away in 1944
March 1, 1880 ~ Organist, composer Albert Alain, full name Albert Paul Alain, born in St-Germain-en-Laye, France ~ Prolific composer of religious music, having composed over 450 pieces for organ, harmonium and voices. Father of Jehan Alain, Olivier Alain, and Marie-Claire Alain, all renowned organists in their own right ~ Alain passed away in 1971