October 2, 2022 ~ Folk singer, guitarist, songwriter Mary McCaslin passed away ~ Influenced by Marty Robbins, Joan Baez, Joni Mitchell, Hedy West, the Beatles, the Bee Gees. Actively recording since the late-1960s with over a dozen albums to her name. Known for her open guitar tunings and distinctive vocal style. Had her songs recorded by the likes of Tom Russell, Bill Staines, Gretchen Peters (Prairie In The Sky), David Bromberg, Kate Wolf, Stan Rogers, Còig, and others ~ McCaslin was born in 1946
October 2, 2021 ~ Guitarist, composer Sebastião Tapajós passed away ~ Actively recording since the early-1960s with over 50 albums to his name. Composed the soundtrack to the local film Lendas Amazonicas released in 1998. Has collaborated with artists such as Gilson Pernazzetta, João Cortez, Mauricio Einhorn, Paulinho Noguiera, Nilson Chavez, Jane Duboc, and others ~ Tapajós was born in 1943
October 2, 2018 ~ Engineer, producer Geoff Emerick, full name Geoffrey Ernest Emerick, passed away in Los Angeles, California, USA ~ Well-known for his association with the Beatles, noted for engineering the albums Revolver, Sgt Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band, and Abbey Road. Has also engineered albums for the likes of the Zombies, Jackie Lomax, Matt Monro, Paul McCartney, Stealers Wheel, Nazareth, Robin Trower, Steeleye Span, Mott The Hoople, UFO, and John Wetton. Served as producer for Mary Hopkin (Post Card), Badfinger, Split Enz, Elvis Costello (Get Happy), and Big Country ~ Emerick was born in 1945
October 2, 2017 ~ Rock, heartland rock, roots rock, country rock, pop rock singer, guitarist, songwriter Tom Petty, full name Thomas Earl Petty, passed away in Santa Monica, California, USA ~ Fronted Mudcrutch, which evolved into Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers. Solo and with the Heartbreakers, Petty has sold over 80 million records making him one of the all-time best-selling artists. Known for songs such as Don't Do Me Like That, Refugee, Waiting, Don't Come Around Here No More, Learning To Fly, I Won't Back Down, Free Fallin' and You Don't Know How It Feels. Also a member of supergroup the Traveling Wilburys alongside George Harrison, Bob Dylan, Roy Orbison and Jeff Lynne. The Wilburys had initially intended their first song, Handle With Care, as a one-off for the B-side of Harrison's This Is Love single. The result however was judged too good for that purpose and they decided to record an entire album ~ Petty was born in 1950
October 2, 2016 ~ Singer, songwriter Joan Marie Johnson passed away in New Orleans, Louisiana, USA ~ Original member of the Dixie Cups alongside her cousins Barbara Ann Hawkins and Rosa Lee Hawkins, best known for their 1964 million-seller Chapel Of Love ~ Johnson was born in 1944
October 2, 2016 ~ Violinist, conductor Neville Marriner passed away ~ Worked with the London Symphony Orchestra, Thurston Dart, Peter Gibbs, the Philharmonia Orchestra, Reginald Jacques, Boyd Neel, the London Mozart Players, the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra, the Minnesota Orchestra, the Gulbenkian Orchestra, the Vienna Philharmonic, and others ~ Marriner was born in 1924
October 2, 2015 ~ Jazz bassist Coleridge Goode, full name George Coleridge Emerson Goode, passed away ~ Best known for his association with saxophonist Joe Harriott. Also worked with Johnny Claes, Eric Winstone, Lauderic Caton, Dick Katz, Ray Ellington, Django Reinhardt, Stéphane Grappelli, Tito Burns, Chris McGregor, Dudu Pukwana, Ronnie Beer, Laurie Allan, Gwigwi Mrwebi, Laurie Morgan, Michael Garrick, and others ~ Goode was born in 1914
October 2, 2014 ~ Jazz pianist, composer, arranger Ray Santisi passed away ~ Played with Charlie Parker, Stan Getz, Dexter Gordon, Mel Tormé, Irene Kral, Herb Pomeroy, Natalie Cole, Buddy DeFranco, Gábor Szabó, Milt Jackson, Zoot Sims, Al Cohn, Carol Sloane, Clark Terry, Bob Brookmeyer, Benny Golson, Boots Mussulli, Shelly Manne, Donald Byrd, Kenny Burrell, Hank Mobley, Duke Jordan, Bob Moses, and others ~ Santisi was born in 1933
October 2, 2012 ~ James George Tomkins, commonly known as guitarist, arranger Big Jim Sullivan, passed away in Billinghurst, UK ~ Worked with Sid Gilbert, Johnny Duncan, Vince Taylor, Janice Peters, Vince Eager, Marty Wilde, the Wildcats, Eddie Cochran, Gene Vincent, Billy Fury, Frank Ifield, Frankie Vaughan, Helen Shapiro, Johnny Hallyday, Freddie & the Dreamers, Cilla Black, Tom Jones, Shirley Bassey, Dusty Springfield, Alexis Korner, Blues Incorporated, Georgie Fame, Little Richard, Del Shannon, the Walker Brothers, Donovan, David Bowie (on Bowie 1967's David Bowie debut album), Benny Hill, the New Seekers, Thunderclap Newman, Love Affair, Long John Baldry, Marmalade, the Small Faces, Rolf Harris, George Harrison, the Amazing Blondes, Serge Gainsbourg, Frank Zappa (200 Motels), the Who, James Last, Derek Lawrence, Duncan McKenzie, Dave Berry, Françoise Hardy, Eddy Mitchell, Jimmy Page, Cliff Richard, Clinton Ford, Gilbert O'Sullivan, Alvin Stardust, Petula Clark, Jackie Trent, Sandie Shaw, Chris Farlowe, Ken Dodd, and Overlanders ~ Tomkins was born in 1941
October 2, 2012 ~ Clifton Howard Vandevender, commonly known as country singer, guitarist, songwriter Van Howard, passed away in Dallas, Texas, 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 was born in 1929
October 2, 2009 ~ John Rivas, commonly known as hip-hop, electro DJ Mr Magic, passed away in Brooklyn, New York, USA ~ Prominent radio DJ, credited by some for hosting the first radio rap show starting in 1979 on New York's WHBI and moving to WBLS by the early-1980s. As a recording artist known for the 1984 12" Magic's Message (There's A Better Way). Closely associated with the Juice Crew, fronted by Magic's on-air assistant Marley Marl ~ Rivas was born in 1956
October 2, 2005 ~ Julius Russell, commonly known as comedian, poet, dancer Nipsey Russell, passed away in New York, New York, USA ~ Best known as a TV personality appearing on numerous game shows from the 1960s through the 1990s and a regular on Late Night With Conan O'Brien during the show's early years. To pop audiences known for starring as the Tin Man in the 1978 film version of The Wiz alongside Ted Ross, Michael Jackson and Diana Ross ~ Russell was born in 1918
October 2, 2002 ~ Singer, internet personality Jacob Sartorius, full name Rolf Jacob Sartorius, born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA ~ Became an internet sensation from posting comedy skits on Vine and lip-syncing on Musical.ly and TikTok. Has released a number of recordings, starting with the single Sweatshirt in 2016
October 2, 2001 ~ Saxophonist, composer, producer Manny Albam passed away in Croton-on-Hudson, New York, USA ~ Dropped out of school to join Muggsy Spanier. Was mentored in arranging by fellow bandmember Budd Johnson while in Georgie Auld's band. Went on to play with bandleaders such as Charlie Barnet and Charlie Spivak, then on to jazz collaborating, both as a sideman and as leader, with Count Basie, Stan Getz, Bob Brookmeyer, Coleman Hawkins, Dizzy Gillespie, Freddie Hubbard, Hank Jones, Mel Lewis, Art Farmer, Urbie Green, Milt Hinton, and others. Arranged Leonard Bernstein's score for West Side Story in 1959. Albam would continue to work as an arranger, but would turn more and more to teaching ~ Albam was born in 1922
October 2, 1998 ~ Orven Grover Autry, commonly known as singer, actor Gene Autry passed away in Studio City, California, USA ~ Nicknamed “the Singing Cowboy” Autry appeared in over 90 movies from the mid-1930s throught the mid-1950s. Known for songs such as Back In The Saddle Again, At Mail Call Today, Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer, Don't Fence Me In, and others. ~ Autry was born in 1907
October 2, 1991 ~ Jackie Lee Midkiff, commonly known as country singer, songwriter Jackie Lee, born in Maryville, Tennessee, USA ~ Released his She Does debut single in 2014. The song was written by Kelley Lovelace and Neil Thrasher, originaly put on hold by Kenny Chesney, and would be a moderate country hit for Lee
October 2, 1987 ~ Theodore Taylor, commonly known as gospel, R&B singer Ted Taylor, passed away in Lake Charles, Louisiana, USA ~ Influenced by Little Willie John, Clyde McPhatter and Jackie Wilson. Started his career singing with the Mighty Clouds Of Joy gospel group. Would go on to sing secular R&B with the Cadets and the Jacks, which were basically the same group. Sang lead on the former's Do You Wanna Rock (Hey Little Girl) and I Cry, and on the latter's Away and My Darling. Taylor ventured out on his own by 1957 and is known for being the first to record Be Ever Wonderful in 1959, notably covered by Dee Dee Sharp in 1963 and by Joe Hinton in 1968. As a solo artist Taylor would also reach national succes with Stay Away From My Baby, a Billboard R&B top 20 hit in 1965 ~ Taylor was born in 1934
October 2, 1981 ~ Jazz, classical pianist, singer, actress Hazel Scott, full name Hazel Dorothy Scott, passed away in New York, New York, USA ~ Child prodigy. Outspoken critic of racial discrimation. Popular jazz, blues, boogie-woogie nightclub performer during the 1930s and 1940s. One of the first Afro-Caribbean women to land respectable roles in major Hollywood films including I Dood It alongside Lena Horne, The Heat's On and Rhapsody In Blue ~ Scott was born in 1920
October 2, 1981 ~ Jazz, swing, big band trumpeter Johnny Windhurst, full name John Henry Windhurst, passed away ~ Influenced by Bix Beiderbecke, Bobby Hackett, Wild Bill Davison, and Bunny Berigan. Worked with Eddie Condon, Sidney Bechet, Art Hodes, James P Johnson, Louis Armstrong, Nappy Lamare, Ruby Braff, George Wettling, Jack Teagarden, Barbara Lea, Buell Neidlinger, Cutty Cutshall, Cliff Leeman, and Edmond Hall ~ Windhurst was born in 1926
October 2, 1981 ~ Trumpeter, composer Peter Evans born ~ Not to be confused with musicologist Peter Evans. Evans has worked with a host of modern artists including Weasel Walter, Dave Taylor, Evan Parker, Matana Roberts, Tyshawn Sorey, John Zorn, Mary Halvorson, Peter Brötzmann, Aaron Burnett, Okkyung Lee, Nate Wooley, and others
October 2, 1978 ~ Jazz cornetist Albert Brunies passed away ~ Played with Charlie Cordella, Mickey Marcour, Leon Roppolo, Sidney Arodin, Bill Eastwood, Joe Loyacano, and Leo Adde ~ Brunies was born in 1900
October 2, 1978 ~ Singer, actress, model, songwriter Ayumi Hamasaki born in Fukuoka, Japan ~ Released her debut album A Song For xx in 1999 and has been recording steadily since. Known for songs such as Love (Destiny), Boys And Girls, M, Never Ever, Voyage, Heaven, Sparkle, You Were, and Crossroad. Has sold over 50 million records
October 2, 1978 ~ R&B, soul, pop sibling group the Pointer Sisters release Fire, lead single off their Energy album ~ Reportedly, Bruce Springsteen wrote the song for his idol Elvis Presley, whom he sent a demo. As Presley died shortly thereafter, nothing came of it. The song would first be recorded by Springsteen's friend Robert Gordon for his 1978 Fresh Fish Special album. The definitive hit version, however, would be the Pointer Sisters' sultry, smoldering take. It became one of their two highest-charting singles, which just like their other big hit Slow Hand peaked at No.2 Billboard Hot 100. Springsteen had considered to include the song on his own Darkness On The Edge Of Town or The River, but decided it fit neither album. Eventually, Springsteen did release it himself, a 1978 live performance of the song at Winterland, San Francisco, issued as the second and final single off his Live 1975-85 box set
October 2, 1977 ~ Jazz pianist, organist, keyboardist David Wallumrød born in Kongsberg, Norway ~ Worked with Knut Reiersrud, Torun Eriksen, Jarle Bernhoft, Marit Larsen, Maria Solheim, Vidar Busk, Maria Mena, Thomas Dybdahl, Bjørn Eidsvåg, Cloudberry Cream, Kjetil Moster, and others
October 2, 1977 ~ Lasse Malberg, commonly known as rapper Redrama, born in Helsinki, Finland ~ Raps in English, Swedish and Finnish. Member of Alien Allies. Frequent collaborator of Paleface, notably on Still In Charge which reached top 10 in Finland. As a solo artist released his Everyday Soundtrack in 2003, spawning the Finnish No.1 hit Hang It Up
October 2, 1976 ~ Pop, country pop singer Glen Campbell records Southern Nights at Capitol Studios, Hollywood, California ~ Written by Allen Toussaint, who recorded the track for his Southern Nights album a year earlier. Produced by Gary Klein it would become one of Campbell's biggest hits, topping both the Billboard Country and the all-genre Billboard Hot 100 charts
October 2, 1976 ~ Jazz trombonist Quentin Jackson passed away in New York, New York, USA ~ Best known for his stints with Cab Calloway and Duke Ellington, working with the latter's orchestra for a little over a decade starting in 1949. Other notable collaborations include Clark Terry, Dinah Washington (The Swingin' Miss D), Ella Fitzgerald, Quincy Jones, Ray Charles (The Genius of Ray Charles), Bill Coleman, Randy Weston, Count Basie, Oliver Nelson, Shirley Scott (For Members Only), Billy Taylor, Charles Mingus (The Black Saint & The Sinner Lady), Milt Jackson, Herbie Mann, Barbara Lewis (Workin' On A Groovy Thing), Jimmy Smith, the Manhattan Transfer, and Johnny Hodges ~ Jackson was born in 1909
October 2, 1975 ~ R&B, gospel, pop rock, soul singer, songwriter Toneisha Harris born in Salisbury, Maryland, USA ~ Runner-up in the 2020 edition of talent show The Voice, losing out to Todd Tilghman. Would go on to release a handful of singles, including Don't Stop with her Voice-coach Blake Shelton, and Cycles with fellow Voice alumni Arei Moon
October 2, 1973 ~ Sascha Reimann, commonly known as hip hop, rap, rap rock, punk rock singer, rapper, actor Ferris MC, born ~ Formed the 1990's hip hop trio FAB, an acronym for Freaks Association Bremen, with Flowin Immo and DJ Pee. Though the trio remained together only briefly, releasing their sole Freaks album in 1994, they are considered especially influential on German hip hop. After the group's disbandement, Ferris continued in hip hop to critical acclaim through the mid-2000s, teaming up with the likes of Tobi Tobsen, DJ Stylewarz, and Afrob, before ventring into house, electro, and electropunk music, notably as a member of Deichkind from the late-2000s through the late-2010s
October 2, 1973 ~ Lene Grawford Nystrøm, commonly known as pop, dance-pop, Eurodance singer, songwriter Lene Nystrøm, born in Tønsberg, Norway ~ Best known as member Eurodance outfit Aqua active from the mid-1990s through 2001. The band has sold over 20 million records and is best known for their 1997 Barbie Girl dance hit, a No.1 hit across Europe and a top 10 hit on the American Billboard Hot 100. Nystrøm was married to bandmate Søren Rasted from 2001 through 2016, with whom she has two children
October 2, 1971 ~ Pop, vocal pop singer Eddie Butler born in Dimona, Israel ~ Internationally best known as a member of Eden, with whom Butler reached 5th place at the 1999 Eurovision Songfestival representing their native Israel with the song Happy Birthday. After the group disbanded in the early-2000s, Butler has ventured out on his own, performing across Europe, Russia, and the USA. In 2006, Butler would again participate in the Eurovision Songfestival, this time as a solo artist reaching second-last place with Together We Are One
October 2, 1971 ~ In its twelfth week on its chart, the double A-side single Maggie May/Reason To Believe by Rod Stewart hits No.1 Billboard Hot 100 ~ Stewart's first single to chart on the Billboard Hot 100, where it held the top position for five consecutive weeks. Initially, it was issued with the Tim Hardin-cover Reason To Believe on the A-side, the self-penned Maggie May featured on the flip side. However, as radio stations picked up the B-side it would be re-issued as a double A-side single. Though it would still be a few more years before Stewart became a solid hitmaker, Maggie May was the song that started his solo career. Decades later, Stewart would look back on his first major hit: “At first, I didn't think much of Maggie May. I guess that's because the record company didn't believe in the song. I didn't have much confidence then. I figured it was best to listen to the guys who knew better. What I learned is sometimes they do and sometimes they don't”
October 2, 1971 ~ Tiffany Renee Darwish, mononymously known as singer, songwriter, actress Tiffany, born in Norwalk, California, USA ~ Best known for a string of hit singles off her 1987 Tiffany debut album, namely Could've Been, the Beatles-cover I Saw Him Standing There and notably the Tommy James & the Shondells-cover I Think We're Alone Now. Her Hold An Old Friend's Hand 1988 sophomore album would spawn another American top 10 hit, All This Time, but failed to replicate the succes of her debut album. Darwish has posed for Playboy, appeared on Celebrity reality shows and continues to tour and record
October 2, 1970 ~ Alternative rock bassist, guitarist, keyboardist Martin Sköld born in Sparreholm, Sweden ~ Rose to fame as member and along with singer Joakim Berg main songwriter of Kent. The band is known for a string of hits starting in the late-1990s including the Swedish No.1 hits Dom Adra, Max 500, Palace And Main, Tontarna, 2000 and Gamla Ullevi
October 2, 1969 ~ Damon Michael Gough, commonly known as indie rock, indie folk, lo-fi singer, guitarist, bassist, percussionist, keyboardist, songwriter Badly Drawn Boy, born in Dunstable, UK ~ Released a number of mostly unnoticed EP's before turning out his full-length critically acclaimed The Hour Of The Bewilderbeast debut album in 2000. Has been recording to a limited yet devoted fanbase since
October 2, 1968 ~ Singer, guitarist, songwriter Jeff Martin born in Windsor, Canada ~ Frontman of Canadian rock outfit Tea Party, known for songs such as Temptation, Psychopomp, Heaven Coming Down and The Messenger. Debuted as a solo artist with the album Exile & The Kingdom Come in 2006. Also worked with the Armada, Hundred Mile House, the Eternal, the Tenth Planet, Lepers & the Crooks, and others
October 2, 1968 ~ Alternative country, new traditionalist singer, guitarist, songwriter Kelly Willis born in Annandale, Virginia, USA ~ Emerged from the Austin country scene, landing a record deal after being noticed by Nanci Griffith and Lyle Lovett. Debuted in 1990 with the Well Travelled Love album. Has recorded to critical acclaim and a devoted fanbase since. Worked with Jay Farrar, Chuck Prophet, Monte Warden, Aaron Neville, Martin Zellar, Mark Collie, and with Bruce Robison whom she married in 1992
October 2, 1967 ~ Singer, guitarist, songwriter Gillian Welch born in New York, New York, USA ~ Has been releasing critically acclaimed albums, usually backed by steady musical partner guitarist David Rawlings, since the mid-1990s, combining elements of Appalachian music, bluegrass, country, and Americana. Welch cites influences as varied as the Stanley Brothers, Bob Dylan, Chuck Berry, Neil Young, and the Velvet Underground, with a touch of Throwing Muses and the Pixies. Welch is a sought-after collaborator, appearing on albums by Ryan Adams, Ani DiFranco, Emmylou Harris, Jay Farrar, Alison Krauss, Robyn Hitchcock, Steve Earle, Ralph Stanley, Solomon Burke, and Mark Knopfler. Musicians who guested on Welch's albums include Jimmy Buffett, Trisha Yearwood, Joan Baez, Brad Mehldau, Allison Moorer, Miranda Lambert, Kathy Mattea, and ZZ Top
October 2, 1965 ~ David Nehaisi, commonly known as classical crossover, operatic pop singer David D'Or, born in Holon, Israel ~ Noted for his four-octave vocal range, D'Or has recorded well over half a dozen albums since the early-1990s, most of which have reached Gold or Platinum status in his native Israel. Though best known as a classical crossover singer, D'Or has also ventured into world music, jazz, and hip hop, notably collaborating with Israeli rapper Subliminal on the 2006 track Ten Koah (Give Me Strength). D'Or has guested with renowned orchestras the world over including the London Symphony, the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra, and the New York Symphony Orchestra, has performed for crowds upwards of 50,000, as well as for popes, presidents, and royalty. D'or represented Israel at the 2004 Eurovision Songfestival, where he reached 11th place with Leha'amin (To Believe) which he co-wrote with Ehud Manor
October 2, 1962 ~ Keyboardist, bassist, singer Harold Chicester born in USA ~ Bassist for rock-funk outfit the Royal Crescent Mob from 1985 to 1994. Closely associated with Greg Dulli often lent his talents to Dulli's projects Afghan Whigs and the Twilight Singers, both on tour and on record. Also a co-founding member of Howling Maggie, whose original line-up would also include bassist Jim Rico, guitarist Andy Harrison, trumpeter Randy Sander, and drummer Jerome Dillon
October 2, 1960 ~ Guitarist, songwriter Al Connely born in Montreal, Canada ~ Played with future Glass Tiger-founders Alan Frew and Wayne Parker in their late seventies band Onyx. When they disbanded Connelly formed the punk outfit the Untouchable Lowlifes. In 1983 he was asked to join Glass Tiger. They played locally, were eventually signed to Capitol Records and released their debut album Thin Red Line in 1986. The band were awarded three Juno awards, the album went multi-platinum
October 2, 1960 ~ Pianist, hornist Django Bates born in Beckenham, UK ~ Leader and sideman. Founded Human Chain. Founded Delightful Precipice. Has also worked with Dudu Pukwana, Tim Whitehead, Ken Stubbs, Bill Bruford, Sidsel Endresen, George Russell, George Gruntz, Michael Brecker, Tim Berne, Christian Jarvi, Vince Mendoza, David Sanborn, Kate Rusby, Don Alias, and others
October 2, 1957 ~ Singer Connie Francis records Who's Sorry Now ~ Written by Ted Snyder, Bert Kalmar, Harry Ruby. Produced by Harry A Myerson. Previously recorded by Isham Jones in 1923. Francis was about to be dropped by her record label due to lack of sales, allowing her one more record. She was initially reluctant to record a 35 year old song, as her father suggested convinced an updated version would have cross-over appeal. It would become her breakout hit
October 2, 1955 ~ Singer Philip Oakey born in Hinckley, UK ~ Lead singer, co-founder of Human League, known best for Don't You Want Me which topped the charts on both sides of the Atlantic. Other well known songs included Being Boiled, The Sound Of The Crowd, Love Action (I Believe In Love), Open Your Heart, Mirror Man, Keep Feeling Fascination, The Lebanon. Oakey has also recorded as a solo artist and is an in-demand collaborator, notably teaming up with producer Giorgio Moroder for Together In Electric Dreams which was used as the theme song for the 1984 Electric Dreams film
October 2, 1954 ~ Singer, guitarist, mandolinist Greg Jennings born in Nicoma Park, Oklahoma, USA ~ Longtime member of country outfit Restless Heart known for 1980s Billboard Country charttoppers such as That Rock Won't Roll, Why Does It Have To Be (Wrong Or Right), Wheels, The Bluest Eyes In Texas, A Tender Lie and perhaps their best known I'll Still Be Loving You, the latter also reaching top 40 on the all-genre Billboard Hot 100 in 1987
October 2, 1952 ~ Singer, guitarist, violinist, theremin player, songwriter John Otway born in Aylesbury, UK ~ Active since the early-1970s. Enjoys a cult following built through extensive touring. Had his 1977 John Otway & Wild Willy Barrett debut album, a collaborative effort with Wild Willy Barrett, produced by the Who's Pete Townshend. The album also included Really Free, Otway's highest-charting single reaching the uK top 30
October 2, 1952 ~ Rock drummer, singer Sigtryggur Baldursson born in Norway ~ Founding member of the Sugarcubes. Also worked with Pigface, Peyr, Kukl, Emiliana Torrini, Ben Frost, Kippi Kaninus, the SJS Bigband, Headpump, Bradley Fish, the Reptile Palace Orchestra, and others
October 2, 1951 ~ Pianist, bandleader, composer Bill Elliott born in Wayland, Massachusetts, USA ~ Initially a session and studio musician for artists such as Stevie Nicks, Smokey Robinson, Donna Summer and Bette Midler. Eventually gravitated to compose and orchestrate for film and Broadway. Won a 2015 Tony Award for his orchestration of the Broadway musical An American In Paris. Also known for his work on musicals such as Nice Work If You Can Get It and Bandstand
October 2, 1951 ~ Singer Bing Crosby records Domino ~ Originally a French song composed by Louis Ferrari with lyrics by Jacques Plante, it would be a hit in Europe. Crosby's version, with English lyrics by Don Raye would reach top 10 on the American pop charts. Crosby was backed by John Scott Trotter and his Orchestra
October 2, 1951 ~ Drummer, guitarist, singer Coco Montoya born in Santa Monica, California, USA ~ Backing drummer for Albert Collins starting in the mid-1970s. Spent about a decade, starting in the early-1980s, as member of John Mayall & the Bluesbreakers
October 2, 1951 ~ Gordon Matthew Thomas Sumner, commonly known as pop rock, new wave singer, bassist, songwriter Sting born in Wallsend, UK ~ Rose to fame as frontman of pivotal late-1970s, 1980s pop, new wave outfit the Police, drawing from pop, rock, punk, reggae and jazz. Well known songs include Roxanne, Can't Stand Losing You, Message In A Bottle, Walking On The Moon, Don't Stand So Close To Me, Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic, Every Breath You Take and Wrapped Around Your Finger. Following the band's disbandement embarked on a successful solo career, starting with the Dream Of The Blue Turtles album in 1985. Has recorded to critical acclaim and commercial succes since, Police and solo recordings combined selling over an estimated 100 million copies
October 2, 1950 ~ Progressive rock, art rock, pop rock guitarist, bassist, songwriter Mike Rutherford, full name Michael John Cloete Crawford Rutherford, born in Portsmouth, UK ~ Co-founding member of Genesis, serving as the band's bassist, rhythm guitarist and following Steve Hackett departure in 1977 lead guitarist. Co-wrote some of the band's best known including Follow You Follow Me, Turn It On Again, Land Of Confusion and Throwing It All Away. Rutherford also recorded as a solo artist and fronted the side project Mike + the Mechanics, known best for the 1989 The Living Years hit single
October 2, 1949 ~ Richard Lester Meyers, commonly known as punk rock, alternative rock, art punk singer, bassist, songwriter Richard Hell born in Lexington, Kentucky, USA ~ Co-founding member of the Neon Boys, which evolved into Television. Co-founded the Heartbreakers alongside Johnny Thunders and Jerry Nolan. Would however become best known as frontman of Richard Hell & the Voidoids, acclaimed for their pivotal 1977 Blank Generation album initially met with mixed reviews but in time regarded as a landmark album shaping early New York punk. Following his departure from the band Meyers semi-retired from music, focusing on a career as a film critic and author. Meyers would briefly come out of retirement in the 1990s, playing in the Dim Stars alongside Thurston Moore, Steve Shelley, Don Fleming and Voidoids-bandmate Robert Quine
October 2, 1948 ~ Singer, songwriter Chris LeDoux born in Biloxi, Mississippi, USA ~ Rodeo champion, rodeo Hall of Famer singing rodeo songs. Some three dozen albums to his name, most of them self-released. Shot to national promince being mentioned in Garth Brooks' Much Too Young To Feel This Damn Old. LeDoux would later duet with Brooks on What Are You Gonna Do With A Cowboy. As a solo artist LeDoux is best known for songs such as Cadillac Ranch, Ten Seconds In The Saddle, Stampede, and for Bang A Drum, the latter with Jon Bon Jovi ~ LeDoux passed away in 2005
October 2, 1946 ~ Joel Sonnier, commonly known as Cajun, zydeco, country singer, accordionist, songwriter Jo-El Sonnier, born in Rayne, Louisiana, USA ~ Active professionally since the late-1960s, first performing on the radio at age six. Would become a fixture on the Louisiana Cajun scene, earning a devoted following bridging the musical traditions. Well over two dozen albums to his name, especially noted for Come On Joe released in 1987, and for Cajun Young Blood released in 1996. Best known for No More One More Time and the Richard Thompson-cover Tear Stained Letter, both of which reached top 10 Billboard Country. Guested on albums by Emmylou Harris (Elite Hotel), Johnny Cash, George Strait, Elvis Costello (King Of America), Patty Loveless, Dolly Parton, the Indigo Girls, Sammy Kershaw, Clarence Gatemouth Brown, and Mark Knopfler ~ Sonnier passed away in 2024
October 2, 1945 ~ Singer Don McLean, full name Donald McLean III born in New Rochelle, New York, USA ~ Best known for the 1971 hit American Pie, considered a cultural touchstone. Also known for songs such as Vincent (Starry Starry Night), the Roy Orbison-cover Crying, Since I Don't Have You and Wonderful Baby. Wrote And I Love You So, which would be covered by Perry Como, Helen Reddy, Glen Campbell and perhaps most notably by Elvis Presley
October 2, 1945 ~ Christina McKechnie, commonly known as singer, songwriter Licorice McKechnie, born in Edinburgh, UK ~ Left home in her teens with the intention of marrying Bert Jansch though they were never married. Plays keyboard, guitar, percussion. Member of the Incredible String Band. Worked with Mike Garson, Mick Woodmansey, Leonard Halliwell, the Silver Moon Band, and others. Went missing in 1987 hitchhiking across the Arizona dessert
October 2, 1944 ~ Conductor, organist, harpsichordist Ton Koopman, full name Antonius Gerhardus Michael Koopman, born in Zwolle, the Netherlands ~ Leading figure in the “authentic performance” movement. Focuses on Baroque music, especially that of Johann Sebastian Bach. Founded the Portland Baroque Orchestra. Founded the Amsterdam Baroque Orchestra & Choir, and has recorded the complete Bach vocal works with the latter featuring mezzo-soprano soloist Elisabeth von Magnus
October 2, 1941 ~ Bassist Ron Meagher born in Oakland, California, USA ~ Member of the Beau Brummels until drafted to serve in the Vietnam war. Present on the band's first four albums including the 1965 Billboard Hot 100 top 10 single Just A Little. Sang lead on They'll Make You Cry of the band's Introducing The Beau Brummels debut album. After his stint in the military Meagher has worked with the Black Velvet Band and joined several Brummels revivals
October 2, 1940 ~ Patrick Linch, commonly known as folk singer, guitarist, banjoist, songwriter Patrick Sky, born in College Park, Georgia, USA ~ Emerged from New York's Greenwich Village folk scene. Best known for his 1973 album Songs That Made America Famous, a collection of politically radical, satirical songs. It also included the first recorded version of Kuang Prabang written by close friend Dave Van Ronk ~ Linch passed away in 2021
October 2, 1938 ~ Singer, guitarist Nick Gravenites, full name Nicholas George Gravenites, born in Chicago, Illinois, USA ~ Somewhat overlooked guitarist, known best for his role in 1960s white blues and psychedelia. Over half a dozen records to his name as a solo artist, noted most for My Labors released in 1969. Closely associated with Paul Butterfield, wrote Born In Chicago and co-wrote East-West with Michael Bloomfield, both recorded by the Paul Butterfield Blues Band. Formed the Electric Flag, which also included Bloomfield. Worked with Quicksilver Messenger Service. Worked with the Kozmic Blues Band, Janis Joplin's first band, and served as co-lead singer of Big Brother & the Holding Company after Joplin's departure. Gravenites has also worked with Brewer & Shipley, for whom he produced the 1970 Billboard Hot 100 No.10 hit One Toke Over The Line, as well as with Otis Rush, and the Usual Suspects ~ Gravenites passed away in 2024
October 2, 1936 ~ Blues, R&B drummer Clifton James born in Chicago, Illinois, USA ~ Best known for backing Bo Diddley on his most pivotal recordings alongside maracas player Jerome Green and bassist Roosevelt Jackson. Diddley once commented James was the one who did the original Diddley beat. James has also worked with Memphis Slim, Elmore James, Muddy Waters, Howlin' Wolf, Koko Taylor, Buddy Guy, and the Chicago Blues All-Stars ~ James passed away in 2006
October 2, 1933 ~ Singer Dave Somerville, full name David Troy Somerville, born in Guelph, Canada ~ Lead singer of the Diamonds, a vocal harmony group known for a string of late-1950s hits including the Billboard Hot 100 top 10 hits Little Darlin', Silhouettes, and The Stroll. Somerville recorded as a solo artist during the 1960s, going by the moniker David Troy, and joined the Four Preps in 1967 as replacement for Ed Cobb, the group's original bass singer. Somerville has also co-written The Ballad Of The Unknown Stuntman, the song serving as both the inspiration and theme song for the successfull ABC TV series The Fall Guy ~ Somerville passed away in 2015
October 2, 1919 ~ Guitarist, lutenist, composer John Duarte, full name John William Duarte, born in Sheffield, UK ~ Wrote some 150 works for guitar and lute, ranging from Renaissance-influenced pieces such as English Suite Op.31 to atonal works such as Dreams Op.91 ~ Duarte passed away in 2004
October 2, 1917 ~ Organist, music director, composer Francis Jackson, full name Francis Alan Jackson, born in Malton, UK ~ Best known as music director for York Minster for well over three decades starting in 1946. Has also recorded and toured extensively and composed canticles, anthems, hymns, and organ sonatas. Well known pieces include East Acklam, Daniel In Babylon and A Time Of Fire ~ Jackson passed away in 2022
October 2, 1915 ~ Robert Russell Wise, commonly known as bluegrass fiddler Chubby Wise, born in Lake City, Florida, USA ~ Considered one of country, Western swing's premier fiddlers, well known for his work with Bill Monroe for most of the 1940s. Co-wrote Shenandoah Waltz with Clyde Moody, recorded by Moody in 1947 and covered by Hank Thompson, the Stanley Brothers, and Ernest Tubb. Over half a dozen albums as a solo artist, specifically noted for The Tennessee Fiddler released in 1961. In-demand sideman, present on recordings by Flatt & Scruggs, Hank Snow, Mac Wiseman, Bob Wills, and Red Allen ~ Wise passed away in 1996
October 2, 1885 ~ Singer, jug blower Earl McDonald born in Louisville, Kentucky, USA ~ Active mostly from the early-1900s through the 1930s. Helped popularize jug music performing and recording with bands such as the Original Louisville Jug Band, the Old Southern Jug Band, the Dixieland Jug BLowers and Ballard Chefs ~ McDonald passed away in 1949