November 28, 2023 ~ Jazz pianist John Colianni, full name John Kelly Colianni, passed away in Langhorne, Pennsylvania, USA ~ First got interested in music after watching Duke Ellington perform. Backed Lionel Hampton during the early-1980s. Over half a dozen albums as a solo artist, especially acclaimed for John Colianni & Company released in 1998. As a sideman, Colianni has appeared on albums by Mel Tormé, Spider Saloff, Scott Whitfield, Ben Tucker, Toni Ballard (I'm Your Pal), Holly Shelton, Muriel Anderson, and Marshall McDonald ~ Colianni was born in 1962
November 28, 2022 ~ Pop singer Galit Burg, full name Galit Shira Burg, passed away ~ Internationally perhaps best known for forming the duo Gili & Galit with Gili Netanel. The duo, featuring a then 12-year-old Netanel, represented their native Israel at the 1989 Eurovision Songfestival, where they would reach twelfth place with Derekh Hamelekh. Burg passed away age 54 in a car accident ~ Burg was born in 1968
November 28, 2021 ~ Alexander Borisovich Fradkin, commonly known as singer, pianist, guitarist, bassist, violinist, percussionist Alexander Gradsky, passed away in Moscow, Russia ~ Influenced by Elvis Presley. Internationally best known for duetting with John Denver on the 1986 song Let Us Begin. Formed Tarakany while still in his early teens, the band's 1963 performance at the Moscow University arguably the first public performance of rock & roll by any Russian act. Lead singer of Slaviane, the band's repertoire consisting of covers of the Beatles and the Rolling Stones. Founded and fronted Skomorokhi, blending traditional Russian music with western rock influences. Has recorded as a solo artist, and composed soundtracks, the rock operas Stadium and The Master And Margarita, and the rock ballet The Man ~ Fradkin was born in 1949
November 28, 2021 ~ Laila Sinikka Soppi, commonly known as singer Laila Halme, passed away ~ Represented her native Finland at the 1963 Eurovision Songfestival, reaching tied thirteenth place with the song Muistojeni Laulu (The Song Of My Memories). The other contestant reaching thirteenth place was Annie Palmen, who represented the Netherlands with Een Speeldoos ~ Soppi was born in 1934
November 28, 2021 ~ Miguel Angel Barcasnegras, commonly known as salsa singer Meñique, passed away in Miami, Florida, USA ~ Has recorded over half a dozen albums as a solo artist, starting with the eponymous Meñique released in 1972. Has also appeared on albums by Tito Puente, Kako, Charlie Palmieri (Impulsos), Chamaco Rivera, Jerry Masucci, and Santitos Colon ~ Barcasnegras was born in 1933
November 28, 2020 ~ Othella Strozier, commonly known as jazz singer, dancer Othella Dallas, passed away in Basel, Switzerland ~ Had blues artist WC Handy as her baby sitter. As a dancer discovered by Katherine Dunham who brought her to her New York dance company. As a singer has worked with Sidney Bechet and Nat King Cole. Relocated to Switzerland in the 1960s, opening a dance school in Zurich teaching the Dunham technique. Would also continue to work as a singer until a year before her death ~ Strozier was born in 1925
November 28, 2019 ~ Country, rock guitarist, singer Philip Donnelly passed away in Waterford, Ireland ~ Following a mid-1970s tour backing Donovan, Donnelly settled in Los Angeles, California, to become an in-demand session musician. In his native Ireland perhaps best known for his work with several major Irish acts such as Clannad, the Fleadh Cowboys, the Hothouse Flowers, and De Dannan after returning home in the late-1980s to help care for his mother. Produced Townes Van Zandt's final album, 1994's No Deeper Blue, having played previously on Townes's albums. Donnelly has appeared on albums by the likes of Gary Moore, Bonnie Koloc, Tracy Nelson, Johnny Cash, Nanci Griffith (Once In A Very Blue Moon), Emmylou Harris, and Rita Connolly. As a solo artist Donnelly is best known for his final album, 2015's Beyond The Pale, which includes duets with John Prine and Crystal Gayle ~ Donnelly was born in 1948
November 28, 2018 ~ Jazz saxophonist, flutist, composer, arranger Roger Neumann passed away ~ Recorded two outstanding albums as a leader, 1983's Roger Neumann's Rather Large Band and 1994's Instant Heat. Married to singer Madeline Vergari, with whom he has also worked. As a tenor saxophonist has backed Woody Herman, Bob Crosby, and Anita O'Day. Best known as an arranger for the likes of Buddy Rich, Count Basie, Ray Brown, and the Beach Boys ~ Neumann was born in 1941
November 28, 2017 ~ Magin Diaz Garcia, commonly known as singer, composer Magin Diaz passed away in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA ~ Best known for his chalupa version of the Cuban song Rosa Que Linda Eres, which has since become a standard, and his 2017 Grammy Award-winning El Orisha De La Rose album ~ Garcia was born in 1922
November 28, 2016 ~ Singer, pianist, songwriter Ivar Thomassen passed away ~ Enjoyed local popularity in the Northern regions of Norway, his compositions often reflecting on the region's nature, culture and history. Best known for songs such as Imella Multebær Og Mygg and Det Artige Landet ~ Thomassen was born in 1954
November 28, 2014 ~ Progressive rock keyboardist Joe Vescovi passed away ~ One of the most valued artists in Italian progressive rock known for his energetic stage presence, eccentric clothing and virtuoso keyboard playing. Active since his mid-teens. Best known for his work with the Trip, replacing Ritchie Blackmore who departed the band to join Deep Purple, and with Dik-Dik, one of the all-time favorite Italian rock bands ~ Vescovi was born in 1949
November 28, 2006 ~ Classical violinist, conductor Andor Toth, full name Andor John Toth, passed away in Los Angeles, California, USA ~ Enjoyed a career spanning six decades starting as a soloist with the Ballets Russes in the early-1940s. Violinist for the Alma Trio for well over a dozen years. Co-founded several chamber music ensembles including the Oberlin String Quartet, the New Hungarian Quartet, and the Stanford String Quartet. Has also worked with the NBC Symphony Orchestra, the Cleveland Orchestra, the Houston Symphony, and the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra ~ Toth was born in 1925
November 28, 2002 ~ Blues singer, guitarist Dave Ray, full name James David Ray, passed away ~ Closely associated with John Koerner and Tony Glover, the trio recording and performing in various configurations, in solo turns and duets, but rarely as a trio. Ray suggested that it would be more accurate to refer to them not as Koerner Ray & Gloever, but rather Koerner and/or Ray and/or Glover. As a trio noted for appearing at the Newport Folk Festival in 1964, captured on the Newport Folk Festival 1964 (Evening Concerts III) album. In later years they would occasionally perform together, until Ray's death in the early-2000s ~ Ray was born in 1943
November 28, 2001 ~ Kalman Cohen, commonly known as songwriter, lyricist Kal Mann, passed away in Pompano Beach, Florida, USA ~ Lyricist, often teaming up with composers such as Bernie Lowe and Dave Appell. Co-writer of several well-remembered songs from the rock & roll era including Elvis Presley's Teddy Bear, Charlie Gracie's Fabulous and Butterfly, Bobby Rydell's The Cha Cha Cha and Wild One, and Let's Twist Again and Limbo Rock recorded by Chubby Checker ~ Mann was born in 1917
November 28, 1997 ~ William Daniel Smith, commonly known as rock, soul, jazz keyboardist William Smitty Smith, passed away ~ Member of Canadian soul outfit the Soul Searchers. Co-founding member of Motherlode, known for the 1969 Billboard Hot 100 top 20 hit When I Die. In-demand session musician, present on albums by the likes of the James Gang, Etta James, Domenic Troiano, Dave Loggins, Martha Reeves, Bill Wyman (Monkey Grip), Billy Joel (Streetlife Serenade), Bonnie Raitt, Kenny Rankin, Blood Sweat & Tears, Rory Block, Rare Earth, Yvonne Elliman, the Pointer Sisters, Ry Cooder (Borderline), Dionne Warwick, David Lindley, Rita Coolidge, Bob Dylan (Shot Of Love), Roberta Flack, Rod Stewart, Tracy Chapman, Linda Ronstadt, Lucinda Williams, and Solomon Burke ~ Smith was born in 1944
November 28, 1994 ~ Alan Levitt, commonly known as jazz drummer Al Levitt, passed away in Paris, France ~ Active since the early-1950s. As a leader known for his 1968 We Are The Levitts album. Studied with Lennie Tristano. Closely associated with Lee Konitz, including on the albums In Harvard Square and Jazz At Storyville. Other notable collaborations include Paul Bley, Jimmy Raney, Lionel Hampton, Barney Wilen, Stan Getz (Stan Getz And The Cool Sounds), Alain Jean-Marie, Horace Parlan (Glad I Found You), Chet Baker, and Duke Jordan ~ Levitt was born in 1932
November 28, 1993 ~ Drummer, singer Jerry Edmonton passed away in Santa Barbara, California, USA ~ Best known as drummer for Steppenwolf, which also included his brother singer Mars Bonfire. Previously a member of the Sparrows. Formed the band Seven when Steppenwolf temporarily broke up in the early-1970s ~ Edmonton was born in 1946
November 28, 1992 ~ Guitarist Wayne Bennett, full name Wayne Talmadge Bennett, passed away in New Orleans, Louisiana, USA ~ Active since the 1950s, backing artists such as Amos Milburn, Otis Rush, Buddy Guy, Arbee Stidham, Jimmy Reed, and Elmore James early on in his career. Perhaps best known for his longtime association with Bobby Blue Bland, praised especially for his guitar playing on songs such as Stormy Monday and Wishing Well, serving as a model for younger guitarists including Eric Clapton. Bennett has also worked with Little Junior Parker, James Cotton, Ramsey Lewis, Tyrone Davis, and Jackie Wilson ~ Bennett was born in 1931
November 28, 1992 ~ In its third week on the charts, I Will Always Love You by Whitney Houston hits No.1 Billboard Hot 100 ~ Initially Houston and producer Clive Davis had tapped What Becomes Of The Brokenhearted, originally recorded by Jimmy Ruffin in 1966, as the theme song to the film The Bodyguard. However, when they learned that a rendition by Paul Young would be used for the film Fried Green Tomatoes, they chose to cover Dolly Parton's I Will Always Love You. The song would hit No.1 three days after The Bodyguard opened in theaters, hold the top position for over three months, eventually sell over twentyfour million copies, making it the all-time best-selling single by any female artist, and win Houston a Grammy Award for Record of the Year
November 28, 1989 ~ Indie folk, folk pop singer, guitarist, songwriter Brady Parks born in Reno, Nevada, USA ~ Teamed up with Sydney Macfarlane, performing locally in Provo, Utah, going by the moniker Brady Parks & the IndiAnns in the early-2010s. The band would evolve into the National Parks, releasing their Young debut album in 2013. The band draws form classical, folk, rock, and pop, and are most acclaimed for their 2015 Until I Live sophomore album, heading into a more soulful pop direction
November 28, 1987 ~ In its 10th week on the charts, I've Had The Time Of My Life by Bill Medley & Jennifer Warnes from the Dirty Dancing film hits No.1 Billboard Hot 100 ~ The Dirty Dancing hit peaks at No.1 on the American charts as the “Swayze-lift” becomes a popular dance move. The soundtrack album would sell over 30 million copies, becoming one of the all-time best-selling albums. Besides acting in the lead role, Patrick Swayze also sang She's Like The Wind for the soundtrack, which also reached top 10
November 28, 1984 ~ Tremaine Aldon Neverson, commonly known as singer, rapper, songwriter, producer Trey Songz, born in Petersburg, Virginia, USA ~ Released his debut album, I Gotta Make It, in 2005. Known for songs such as Ca't Help But Wait, Say Aah featuring Fabolous, Bottom's Up featuring Nicki Minaj, and Na Na. Has also collaborated with Twista, Yung Joc, Drake, Ace Hood, Toni Braxton, Mary J Blige, Lupe Fiasco, Waka Flocka Flame, Ty Dolla $ign, BoB, 50 Cent, and 2 Chainz
November 28, 1982 ~ Anthony Leonard Platt, commonly known as hip hop, Southern hip hop hype man, rapper, DJ Unk, born in Atlanta, Georgia, USA ~ Considered a cornerstone of Atlanta rap, helpful in propelling Southern rap into mainstream. Platt has recorded two albums, Beat'n Down Yo Block released in 2006 and 2econd Season issued two years later. His debut album spawned two major hits, Walk It Out which reached No.10 Billboard Hot 100 and its followup 2 Step which reached No.24. The former is best known as a remix which included four additional verses featuring OutKast, Unk himself, and Jim Jones. Regarding Walk It Out, the rapper would later tell Billboard he was thrilled to be working with OutKast's André 3000: “I still can't believe that to this day. I never dreamed that he would get on a record like that because he's so powerful as far as hip-hop and music and everything, so it's a blessing. That was a dream come true. It was like doing a song with Michael Jackson.” Platt has also appeared as a featured artist on tracks by Johnta Austin, Montana, and Three 6 Mafia ~ Platt passed away in 2025
November 28, 1977 ~ Country singer Barbara Mandrell releases Woman To Woman, lead single off her Love's Ups And Downs album ~ Stax/Volt songwriters Homer Banks, Eddie Marion and Henderson Thigpen had constructed the song as a phone call from one woman to her husband's mistress. It would first be offered to Inez Foxx, who declined as she did not like the spoken intro. Singer Shirley Brown, however, jumped at the chance and would take the song to the top of the Billboard R&B charts in 1974, making it the last big hit for the label. A few years later, Mandrell would record her countrified rendition, which was issued as the lead single off Love's Ups And Downs and reached No.4 Billboard Country. Mandrell's previous top 5 hit had also started as an R&B song, namely Married But Not To Each Other originally co-written and first recorded by Denise Lasalle
November 28, 1976 ~ Pianist, organist, choirmaster, film composer Robert Fleming passed away in Ottawa, Canada ~ Best known as a film composer closely associated with Canada's National Film Board, serving as staff composer from 1946 to 1958 and subsequently as its music director until 1970. Has written over 200 scores for film, documentaries and TV including for the 1953 documentary Herring Hunt and the 1962 Canada At Waar documentary series ~ Fleming was born in 1921
November 28, 1975 ~ Drummer Christopher McGuire born ~ Co-founding member of 12 Rods through 1999. Member of Quruli, initially employed as temporary replacement for the summer festivals yet a full-time member in 2003 through late 2004. Member of Kid Dakota. In-demand session and touring musician working with artists such as the Legendary Jim Ruiz Group, the Melismatics, John Vanderslice, Mark Mallman, the Court & Spark, the Mountain Goats and Communist Daughter. Has also served as producer for Squadcar, Barfly and Great Girls Blouse
November 28, 1974 ~ While performing at Madison Square Garden, New York, singer Elton John is joined by John Lennon, making good on a bet he lost ~ John had bet Lennon that Whatever Gets You Thru The Night, Lennon's latest single, would reach the No.1 spot on the American charts. Lennon would lose the bet, owing Elton John the guest appearance. The pair perform Lennon's hit and two of the Beatles songs, I Saw Her Standing There and Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds. It would be Lennon's only solo Billboard Hot 100 No.1 hit. The guest appearance would also be the last concert appearance for Lennon, who would be shot by a deranged fan in 1980
November 28, 1974 ~ Electronic, house, trance keyboardist, guitarist Sacha Collisson born ~ Formed the house duo Aurora with keyboardist Simon Greenaway. They are known for their 2001 Ordinary World track featuring guest vocalist Naimee Coleman which reached top 10 in both the UK and Ireland. Originally the song had been a hit for Duran Duran in 1993
November 28, 1974 ~ Davis Styles, commonly known as rapper Styles P, born in Queens, New York, USA ~ Member of hip-hop group the LOX alongside Sheek Louch and Jadakiss, known best for their 1998 Billboard Hot 100 top 20 hit Money Power & Respect featuring DMX and Lil' Kim. As a solo artist has well over a dozen albums to his name, starting with A Gangster And A Gentleman released in 2002. Also noted for his collaborations with DJ Green Lantern, Talib Kweli, Berner, and Dave East
November 28, 1972 ~ Pop, rock band the Beach Boys record Sail On Sailor at Village, Los Angeles, USA ~ Written by Ray Kennedy and Jack Rieley. Released the following February featuring Only With You on the flip side and included on the 1973 Holland album
November 28, 1972 ~ Heavy metal guitarist, drummer, keyboardist, bassist, songwriter Jesper Strömblad, full name Cias Håkan Jesper Strömblad, born in Gothenburg, Sweden ~ Best known as co-founding member, multi-instrumentalist of melodic death metal band In Flames. Guitarist for Sinergy. Bassist of Ceremonial Oath. Drummed with Hammerfall. Has also worked with Dimension Zero, All Ends, Resistance, Cyhra, Nightrage
November 28, 1971 ~ Leif Nagell, commonly known as black metal, speed metal, dark ambient guitarist, bassist, drummer, keyboardist, singer Fenriz, born in Kolbotn, Norway ~ Best known for forming the extreme metal duo Darkthrone with Nocturno Culto. Famed for his encyclopedic knowledge of metal music. Rejects both the business side of music and the dark image of black metal. Has recorded as a solo artist, including under the monikers Isengard and Neptune Towers, and is an in-demand collaborator, working with artists such as Valhall, Black Death, Dødheimsgard, Storm, Satyricon, Red Harvest, and the Trashcan Darlings
November 28, 1970 ~ Heavy metal, power metal guitarist, bassist, keyboardist, songwriter Steve Smyth born in California, USA ~ Founded One Machine, known for their acclaimed 2014 The Distortion Of Lies And The Overdriven Truth album. Member of thrash metal supergroup From Hell. Has also worked with Vicious Rumors, Dragonlord, Nevermore, HateSphere, the Esseness Project, Intense, Forbidden, and Testament
November 28, 1968 ~ Pop, rock band the Beach Boys record Little Bird at Beach Boys Studio, Los Angeles, California ~ Written primarily by Brian Wilson, credited to Dennis Wilson and Stephen Kalinich. Included on the 1968 Friends album. Used as the B-side of the Friends single released in April 1968
November 28, 1968 ~ Pop, dance-pop, pop-rock, R&B producer, songwriter Herbie Crichlow born in UK ~ In-demand producer, songwriter worked with Max Martin, RedOne, David Franks, Denniz Pop, 3T, the Backstreet Boys (Quit Playing Games With My Heart), Zayn Malik, Robyn, Leila K (Open Sesame), Rita Ora (Kiss Me), 5ive, and O-Town
November 28, 1962 ~ Singer, keyboardist, songwriter Denny DeMarchi born in Toronto, Canada ~ Brother of guitarist Steve DeMarchi. Backed Dolores O'Riordan on her 2007 world tour. Toured with the Cranberries during the band's reunion tour from 2009 through 2011. Also noted for his signature keyboard notes on More Than Words Can Say, a Billboard Hot 100 No.1 hit for Alias in 1990 ~ DeMarchi passed away in 2020
November 28, 1962 ~ Alternative metal, alternative rock, grunge drummer, singer, songwriter Matt Cameron, full name Matthew David Cameron, born in Seattle, Washington, USA ~ Member of Skin Yard. Rose to fame as member of Soundgarden, joining the band in 1986 as replacement for Scott Sundquist. Joined Pearl Jam in 1998. Also involved in several side projects including Temple Of The Dog, Nighttime Boogie Association, Hater, and Wellwater Conspiracy
November 28, 1961 ~ Singer Patty Zomer, full name Patricia Alida Maria Zomer, born in Haarlem, the Netherlands ~ Best known as member of pop girl group the Dolly Dots. The band would score numerous top 10 hits in the Netherlands, starting in the late-1970s, including Tell It All About Boys, Hela-do-ladi-do, STOP, Do You Wanna Wanna, She's A Liar, Dreaming Of You, and What A Night
November 28, 1958 ~ Dance-pop singer, songwriter Michael Camacho born in Los Angeles, California, USA ~ Along with Gary Mudbone Cooper formed the duo Sly Fox, known for their sole hit Let's Go All The Way of their 1985 album of the same name. The single would reach top 10 in America, the UK, the Netherlands, and elsewhere
November 28, 1956 ~ David Paul Day, commonly known as singer, songwriter David Van Day, born in Brighton, UK ~ Half of vocal duo Dollar, the other half being Thereza Bazar. Also a member of Guys & Dolls in the 1970s and of a latter-day line-up of Bucks Fizz in the 1990s
November 28, 1956 ~ Howard Williams Johnson, commonly known as soul, disco singer Howard Johnson, born in Miami, Florida, USA ~ Founding member of Niteflyte, known for their 1979 single If You Want It. Would embark on a solo career after the band disbanded. As a solo artist best known for So Fine and Let This Dream Be Real
November 28, 1956 ~ Roberto Zanetti, commonly known as Eurodance, Italo disco, electropop singer Savage, born in Massa, Italy ~ Produced and written music for Ice MC (Think About The Way), Double You, Alexia, and Zucchero
November 28, 1955 ~ Rock drummer, bassist, guitarist Rob Harper born in London, UK ~ Previously while in college a member of the Cafe Racers which also included Mark Knopfler, future frontman of the Dire Straits. Briefly a tour drummer with the Clash from late 1976 through early 1977. Would go on to work with a number of bands including R&B outfit the Marauders and notably as guitarist with the short-lived power pop unit the Dazzlers known for their 1979 single Lovely Crash
November 28, 1951 ~ Blues guitarist Peter Malick born in Brookline, Massachusetts, USA ~ While in his teens member of psychedelic rock band Listening, a prime example of what became known as the Bosstown Sound merging psychedelica, hard rock and progressive rock. Would go on to back renowned blues artists such as Otis Spann, Muddy Waters, Big Mama Thornton, John Lee Hooker and James Cotton. Served as conductor and music director for a touring production of the musical Hair. Subsequently joined James Montgomery backing band appearing on the 1973 First Time Out album and its 1974 follow-up High Roller. Would retire from music for about two decades, reemerging in the late-1990s as a solo artist, starting with 1998's The Wrong Side Of My Life, and collaborator working with the likes of Butch Norton, Jung Yong-hwa and Norah Jones
November 28, 1949 ~ Keyboardist Paul Shaffer born in Thunder Bay, Canada ~ Best known as musical director, bandleader on David Letterman from 1982 through 2015. Also worked with Saturday Night Live, the Blues Brothers, the Mark & Clark Band, Honeydrippers, Donald Fagen, Ronnie Wood, Grand Funk Railroad, Diana Ross, BB King, Asleep At The Wheel, Cyndi Lauper, Carl Perkins, Yoko Ono, Blues Traveler, Jeff Healey, Cher, Barry Manilow, Chicago, George Clinton, Bootsy Collins, Nina Hagen, Robert Plant, Peter Criss, Brian Wilson, Warren Zevon, Miles Davis, Lew Soloff, Lou Marini, and Earl Scruggs. Co-wrote It's Raining Men with Paul Jabara, a hit for the Weather Girls in 1982
November 28, 1948 ~ Gerard Bertelkamp, commonly known as folk rock, soft rock, pop rock singer, guitarist, bassist, songwriter Beeb Birtles born in Amsterdam, the Netherlands ~ Member of the Little River Band from 1975 through 1983, including on the band's best known such as It's A Long Way There, Help Is On Its Way and Home On Monday. Also recorded as a solo artist and worked with Zoot, Mississippi, Graham Goble, Birtles & Goble
November 28, 1948 ~ Saxophonist, flutist, singer Dave Winthrop born ~ Member of Supertramp from 1970 through 1973, present on the band's 1971 Indelibly Stamped album and lead vocalist on Potter. Member of Chicken Shack from 1976 through 1979, rejoining in later years
November 28, 1948 ~ Operatic soprano Mariana Nicolesco born in Gaujani, Romania ~ Best known for her association with the Metropolitan Opera, performing the role of Nedda in Ruggero Leoncavallo's Pagliacci from 1978 through 1986. Has also worked with La Scala, the London Symphony Orchestra, the Monte Carlo Philharmonic Orchestra, and the Tokyo Symphony Orchestra ~ Nicolesco passed away in 2022
November 28, 1947 ~ Folk, jazz, classical singer, activist Maria Farantouri born in Athens, Greece ~ Dubbed “a peoples Maria Callas” and “the Joan Baez of the Mediterranean” by critics. Contralto singer with a two-octave range, performing in Greek, Spanish, Italian, English. Best known as a protest singer, especially during the Greek military junta which lasted from 1967 to 1974, noted for her 1971 Songs And Guitar Pieces By Theodorakis album consisting of compositions by noted composer Mikis Theodorakis. Has also recorded works composed by Manos Hatzidakis, Eleni Karaindrou, Vangelis and George Gershwin. Served as member of parliament for the socialist PASOK party from 1989 to 1993
November 28, 1947 ~ Keyboardist Reese Wynans born ~ Member of the Second Coming. Member of Captain Beyond, appearing on the album Sufficiently Breathless. Member of Stevie Ray Vaughan's backing unit Double Trouble. Also worked with Joe Ely, Lee Roy Parnell, Chris Layton, Tommy Shannon, Brooks & Dunn, Trisha Yearwood, Martina McBride, Hank Williams Jr, Buddy Guy, John Mayall, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Colin James, Ana Popovic, Dudley Taft, Eli Cook, and the Lonely Boys
November 28, 1946 ~ William Ellis Kinsley, commonly known as pop, beat singer, guitarist, bassist Billy Kinsley, born in Liverpool, UK ~ Co-founding member of the Merseybeats. After the band disbanded in 1966 would continue with Tony Crane as a duo under the moniker the Merseys, immediately scoring a UK top 10 hit with Sorrow. The song had been originally recorded by the McCoys and would later be notably covered by David Bowie on his 1973 Pin Ups album
November 28, 1944 ~ Jon Terryl Plumeri, commonly known as bassist, pianist, flutist, composer Terry Plumeri, born in Greensboro, North Carolina, USA ~ Worked with John Abercrombie, Cannonball Adderley, Herbie Hancock, Woody Herman, Quincy Jones, Yusef Lateef, Les McCann, Wayne Shorter, Frank Sinatra, Ralph Towner, Joe Williams, Roberta Flack, and the Moscow Philharmonic Orchestra. Also a film composer with over 50 films to his name ~ Plumeri passed away in 2016
November 28, 1943 ~ Richard Enos Thompson, commonly known as jazz pianist, clarinetist Butch Thompson, born in Marine-on-St-Croix, Minnesota, USA ~ Best known for his ragtime and stride piano performances. Member of the Hall Brothers New Orleans Jazz Band for two decades starting in 1962. Would gain considerable popularity in Europe in the 1970s and 1980s due to extentsive touring both as a band member and solo artist ~ Thompson passed away in 2022
November 28, 1943 ~ Singer, pianist Randy Newman, full name Randall Stuart Newman, born in Los Angeles, California, USA ~ Revered singer, pianist beloved for his dry wit and numerous film scores. As a solo artist best known for Short People, I Love LA and You've Got A Friend In Me. Has penned songs recorded by the Fleetwoods, Julias La Rosa (I Think It's Going To Rain Today), Cilla Black, Three Dog Night (Mama Told Me (Not To Come)), Gene Pitney, the Alan Price Set, Joe Cocker (You Can Leave Your Hat On), Gene Pitney, Jerry Butler, Petula Clark, Barbra Streisand, Helen Reddy, the Everly Brothers, Tom Odell, Nina Simone, Lynn Anderson, Wilson Pickett, and Harry Nilsson
November 28, 1941 ~ Jazz and ECM bassist, composer Adelhard Roldinger born in Windischgarsten, Austria ~ Played with Joachim Kühn, Eje Thelin, Karl Berger, Alan Skidmore, Gerd Dudek, Branislav Lala Kovacev, Allan Praskin, Harry Pepl, Werner Pirchner, Herbert Joos, Albert Mangelsdorff, Yosuke Yamashita, George Russell, Maria João, Anthony Braxton, Tone Jansa, and Melanie Bong
November 28, 1941 ~ Saxophonist, clarinetist Jesper Thilo born in Copenhagen, Denmark ~ Leader and sideman. Influenced by Ben Webster, Coleman Hawkins, Zoot Sims. Worked with Kenny Drew, Clark Terry, Harry Sweets Edison, Ernie Wilkins, Miles Davis, Hank Jones, Benny Carter, Roy Eldridge, the DR Big Band, Palle Mikkelborg, Thad Jones, Wild Bill Davison, Niels Jorgen Steen, Soren Kristiansen, Olivier Antunes, Hugo Rasmussen, Sven Erik Norregaard, Richard Boone, Jesper Lundgaard, Bob Barnard, Romano Cavicchiolo, Henri Chaix, Stephen Kurmann, Tommy Flanagan, and Roland Hanna
November 28, 1941 ~ R&B singer Jessie Smith born ~ Best known as original member of the Ikettes during the mid-1960s, backing the duo of Ike Turner & Tina Turner. As a solo artist known for her 1961 My Baby Has Gone single. Has also sang backup for artists such as Al Kooper, Bryan Ferry, Dr John (In The Right Place), Gloria Jones, José Feliciano, Johnny Bristol, and Leon Ware ~ Smith passed away in 2021
November 28, 1940 ~ Bruce McMeans, commonly known as singer, songwriter Bruce Channel, born in Jacksonville, Texas, USA ~ Best known for Hey Baby, a Billboard No.1 hit in 1962. Channel also wrote or co-wrote several country hits for others including As Long As I'm Rockin' With You (John Conlee), Don't Worry 'Bout Me Baby (Janie Fricke), Party Time (TG Sheppard), You're The Best (Kieran Kane), and Stand Up (Mel McDaniel)
November 28, 1940 ~ Curtis Clemens, commonly known as singer Clem Curtis, was born in Trinidad, West Indies ~ Singer, founding member of the Foundations, known for songs such as Baby Now That I've Found You, Build Me Up Buttercup, Back On My Feet Again, and Any Old Time (You're Lonely & Sad) ~ Curtis passed away in 2017
November 28, 1939 ~ Singer, trumpeter, songwriter Gary Troxel born in Centralis, Washington, USA ~ Member of the Fleetwoods known for a number of late-1950s, early-1960s recordings, notably Come Softly To Me, Graduation's Here, Mr Blue and Tragedy
November 28, 1938 ~ Western swing bandleader Bob Wills and his regular backing unit the Texas Playboys record Steel Guitar Rag ~ Wills's regular guitarist Leon McAuliffe claimed it as his own, yet the song has most likely been adapted from the 1927 Guitar Rag song recorded by Sylvester Weaver. Nevertheless, the Wills version would become widely known and is considered instrumental in popularizing the steel guitar in Western swing. Over the years the song would be recorded by numerous artists including Spade Cooley, Hank Garland, Jerry Byrd, George Jones, Buck Owens, and Doc Watson
November 28, 1936 ~ Drummer Roy McCurdy born in Rochester, New York, USA ~ Influenced by Louie Bellson, Shelly Manne, Buddy Rich, Philly Joe Jones, Duke Ellington, Jimmie Lunceford, Lionel Hampton. Best known for backing Cannonball Adderley from 1965 until Adderley's death in 1975, including on the 1967 album Mercy Mercy Mercy (Live At The Club) which is generally regarded as one of Adderley's best. Has also worked with Nat Adderley, Gene Ammons, Count Basie, Benny Carter, Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, Art Farmer, Benny Golson, Kenny Rankin, Sonny Rollins (Sonny Meets Hawk), Bobby Timmons, Eddie Cleanhead Vinson, Joe Zawinul, Herbie Hancock, Blood Sweat & Tears, and the Modern Jazz Disciples
November 28, 1932 ~ Jazz singer Ethel Ennis, full name Ethel Llewellyn Ennis, born in Baltimore, Maryland, USA ~ Prior to her seven-decade career as a jazz singer, played piano in church from a young age. Has recorded about a dozen albums, most warmly received, starting with Lullabies For Losers released in 1955. Toured Europe with Benny Goodman. Lovingly dubbed “the First Lady of Jazz” in her homestate of Maryland ~ Ennis passed away in 2019
November 28, 1932 ~ Leandro Barbieri, commonly known as jazz clarinetist, tenor saxophonist, bandleader Gato Barbieri, born in Rosario, Argentina ~ Rose to fame during the free jazz movement in the 1960s. Known for his latin jazz recordings of the 1970s. Influenced by John Coltrane, Albert Ayler, Pharoah Sanders. Mixed Latin rhythms, free jazz, avant-garde, soul jazz, jazz-pop and smooth jazz. Film composer, awarded a Grammy for his Last Tango In Paris soundtrack. Worked with Lalo Schifrin, Don Cherry, Charlie Haden (Music Liberation Orchestra), Oliver Nelson, Alan Shorter, Antonello Venditti, and Carla Bley. Recorded as a leader from the late-1960s well into the 1980s ~ Barbieri passed away in 2016
November 28, 1930 ~ Arthur Leo Owens, commonly known as country songwriter, singer AL Doodle Owens, born in Waco, Texas, USA ~ In-demand songwriter, frequent collaborator of Dallas Frazier. Songs written or co-written by Owens have been recorded by artists such as Lefty Frizzell, George Morgan, Charley Pride, Brenda Lee (Johnny One Time), Willie Nelson, Duane Dee, Elvis Presley (True Love Travels On A Gravel Road), Charlie Louvin, Bob Luman, Hank Locklin, Nat Stuckey, Jerry Lee Lewis, Connie Smith, Stoney Edwards (Hank And Lefty Raised My Country Soul), Henson Cargill, Charlie Rich (Raggedy Ann), Arlene Harden, Ferlin Husky, Moe Bandy (I Just Started Hatin' Cheatin' Songs Today), Gene Watson, Tammy Wynette, George Jones (Wine Colored Roses), and Doug Stone ~ Owens passed away in 1999
November 28, 1929 ~ Producer, label executive Berry Gordy Jr born in Detroit, Michigan, USA ~ Founded the renowned Motown label and subsidiaries. Wrote or co-wrote songs such as Lonely Teardrops (Jackie Wilson), Shop Around (the Miracles), Do You Love Me (the Contours), I Want You Back and ABC (the Jackson 5). Discovered, signed, molded stars such as the Supremes, Marvin Gaye, the Temptations, the Four Tops, Gladys Knight, and Stevie Wonder
November 28, 1929 ~ Songwriter, lyricist Giorgio Calabrese born ~ Many of the songs he co-write have become Italian pop classics. As a translator considered a key figure in the popularization of bossa nova and French chanson in his native Italy. Perhaps best known for co-penning Arrivederci for Umberto Bindi, and E Se Domani popularized by Gene Pitney. Others who recorded songs co-written or adapted by Calabrese include Charles Aznavour, Adriano Celentano, Mina, Nana Moskouri, Caterina Valente, and Andrea Bocelli ~ Calabrese passed away in 2016
November 28, 1915 ~ Jazz trumpeter, arranger Dick Vance, full name Richard Thomas Vance, born in Mayfield, Kentucky, USA ~ Active since the mid-1930, playing with J Frank Terry and subsequently Lil' Armstrong. Would go on to work in ensembles led by Willie Bryant, Kaiser Marshall, Fletcher Henderson, Chick Webb, Ella Fitzgerald, Charlie Barnet, Don Redman, Eddie Heywood Jr, Ben Webster. Worked with Duke Ellington in the 1950s, including arranging most of the Ellington '55 album and co-writing Jazz Festival Suite for Duke's performance at the Newport Jazz Festival in 1958 ~ Vance passed away in 1985
November 28, 1907 ~ Mezzo-soprano, soprano opera singer Rose Bampton born in Lakewood, Ohio, USA ~ Enjoyed an international career during the 1930s and 1940s. Sang with the Metropolitan Opera from 1932 to 1950. Known for roles in operas composed by Richard Wagner as well her performances of works by Alban Berg, Arnold Schoenberg and Samuel Barber ~ Bampton passed away in 2007
November 28, 1829 ~ Pianist, conductor, composer Anton Rubinstein, full name Anton Grigoryevich Rubinstein, born in Vikhvatinets, Russian Empire ~ Brother of pianist, composer Nikolai Rubinstein. Considered one of the foremost 19th-century piano virtuosos, best known for his series of historical recitals covering the history of piano music. Has written piano concertos, symphonies, chamber music and opera, most notably The Demon published in 1871 ~ Rubinstein passed away in 1894