September 27, 2021 ~ R&B singer, songwriter Andrea Martin, full name Andrea Monica Martin, passed away in New York, New York, USA ~ Best remembered for penning a number of quintessential R&B hits since the 1990s, often with longtime collaborator Ivan Matias, such as I Love Me Some Him (Toni Braxton), Before You Walk Out Of My Life (Monica), Wish I Didn't Miss You (Angie Stone), Don't Let Go (Love) (En Vogue), You're The One (SWV), and Better In Time (Leona Lewis). Others who recorded songs written or co-written by Martin include Paloma Faith, Nelly, RBD, and Jennifer Hudson. Has also recorded as a singer herself though to significantly lesser chart succes. Her 1999 Share The Love single would be a club hit, reaching the top 10 of the Billboard Dance charts ~ Martin was born in 1972
September 27, 2018 ~ Singer Martyn Jerel Buchwald, commonly known as Marty Balin, passed away in Tampa, Florida, USA ~ Co-founding member, co-lead singer of the Jefferson Airplane. Notable co-writing credits include Comin' Back To Me, Today and Volunteers. Co-wrote and guested on Airplane spinoff group Jefferson Starship's power ballad Caroline. Has also worked with the Town Criers, Bodaccious DF, the KBC Band. As a solo artist scored a 1981 Billboard Hot 100 top 10 hit with Hearts ~ Balin was born in 1942
September 27, 2017 ~ Delta blues singer, guitarist CeDell Davis, full name Ellis CeDell Davis, passed away in Hot Springs, Arkansas, USA ~ Noted for his distinctive style of guitar playing, a case of polio restricting use of his hands leading him to hold a butter knife in his fretting hand in a manner similar to slide guitar playing. Critically acclaimed for his 1994 Feel Like Doin' Something Wrong album. The 2019 Signs album by the Tedeschi-Trucks Band was dedicated to Davis ~ Davis was born in 1926
September 27, 2015 ~ Denise Jeanna Briault, commonly known as singer, actress Denise Lor, passed away ~ Best known as a an actress appearing on the Garry Moore Show, Seven At Eleven, and musical comedies such as Gypsy and Annie. As a singer scored a hit with If I Gave My Heart To You in 1954 ~ Briault was born in 1929
September 27, 2015 ~ Bassist Wilton Felder passed away in Whittier, California, USA ~ Founding member of the Jazz Crusaders, later renamed to the Crusaders. Also worked a house bassist for Motown, appearing on records by Grant Green, the Jackson 5 (I Want You Back), and Marvin Gaye. Sessioned for seventies pop-rock artist such as Seals & Crofts, John Cale, Steely Dan, Billy Joel, Randy Newman, Joan Baez, Joni Mitchell, Michael Franks, and others ~ Felder was born in 1940
September 27, 2012 ~ Songwriter, producer Frank Wilson passed away in Duarte, California, USA ~ Wrote, co-wrote, produced, co-produced for numerous artists, especially on the Motown label, including Patrice Holloway (Stevie), Chris Clark, Martha & the Vandellas, Brenda Holloway (You've Made Me So Very Happy), Marvin Gaye, the Supremes (Stoned Love, Nathan Jones), the Isley Brothers (All Because I Love You), the Marvelettes, the Miracles, the Four Tops (Still Water Love), the Temptations, Eddie Kendricks (Keep On Truckin'), Originals, Lakeside, New Birth, Lenny Williams (Cause I Love You), Renée Geyer, Freda Payne (Love Magnet), Mr Cheeks, and John Legend (Each Day Gets Better) ~ Wilson was born in 1940
September 27, 2010 ~ Muni Zudekoff, commonly known as swing, R&B trombonist, bandleader Buddy Morrow, passed away in Maitland, Florida, USA ~ Leader and sideman. Worked with Sharkey Bonano, Eddy Duchin, Vincent Lopez, Artie Shaw, Tommy Dorsey, Jimmy Dorsey, Paul Whiteman, Tony Pastor, Bob Crosby, Billy Butterfield, Red McKenzie, Count Basie, Jackie Gleason, Urbie Green, Enoch Light, Lee Wiley, Gato Barbieri, Van McCoy, Barry Manilow, Sarah Vaughan, and others ~ Zudekoff was born in 1919
September 27, 2009 ~ Country singer Ruby Wright passed away ~ Eldest child of Johnnie Wright and Kitty Wells. Also recorded under the moniker Ruby Wells, to avoid confusion with big band singer Ruby Wright. Best known for her 1964 Billboard Country top 20 hit Dern Ya, an answer song to Roger Miller's Dang Me. Her sole full-length album of the same name, Dern Ya, followed in 1966 ~ Wright was born in 1939
September 27, 2004 ~ Trombonist, bassist Louis Satterfield, full name Louis Edward Satterfield, passed away in Chicago, Illinois, USA ~ Member of the Pharaohs. Member of the Phenix Horns. Worked with Earth Wind & Fire, Muddy Waters, Phil Collins, the Emotions, Ramsey Lewis, the Whispers, the Gap Band, Fontella Bass, the Jazzmen, BB King, Rotary Connection, James Cotton, Phil Upchurch, Howlin' Wolf, Donny Hathaway, Odell Brown, Willie Dixon, Terry Callier, the Dells, Clarence Wheeler, Shel Silverstein, Mighty Joe Young, the Chi-lites, the Staple Singers, Valerie Carter, Deniece Williams, Eugene Record, Lamont Johnson, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Tavares, Stanley Turrentine, Keni Burke, Ronnie Laws, and others ~ Satterfield was born in 1937
September 27, 2003 ~ Guitarist Paul Burlison passed away in Horn Lake, Mississippi, USA ~ Rock & roll pioneer. Founding member of the Johnny Burnette Trio, which also included Dorsey Burnette and Johnny Burnette, known for songs such as Train On A Lonesome Track and Honey Hush. Credited with being one of the first guitarists to intentionally use effects such as distortion and feedback ~ Burlison was born in 1929
September 27, 1999 ~ Music director, composer Paul Hill passed away ~ Founder, music director of the Paul Hill Chorale, later renamed to the Master Chorale Of Washington ~ Hill was born ca.1934
September 27, 1997 ~ Violist, violinist Walter Trampler passed away in Port Joli, Canada ~ Played with the Strub Quartet from 1934 through 1938. Principal violist of the Berlin Radio Orchestra before emigrating to America in 1939 where he would serve in the Army during World War II. Founding member of the Chamber Music Society Of Lincoln Center. Member of the Yale Quartet alongside Broadus Erle, Syoko Aki and Aldo Parisot ~ Trampler was born in 1915
September 27, 1996 ~ Brian Vaughn Bradley Jr, commonly known as hip-hop rapper, producer, songwriter Astro, born in Brooklyn, New York, USA ~ Not to be confused with UB40-toaster Astro. First gained attention as contestant on the first season of talent show The X-Factor USA in 2011. Would released a number of singles and EPs prior to his 2017 full-length Grade A Frequency solo debut album. Also known as an actor for film and TV starting in the early 2010s
September 27, 1993 ~ Saxophonist, clarinetist, pianist Fraser MacPherson, full name John Fraser MacPherson, passed away in Vancouver, Canada ~ Leader and sideman. Worked with Ray Norris, Dave Robbins, Paul Ruhland. First-call session musician throughout the 1960s and 1970s. Especially acclaimed for the 1979 Live At The Planetarium album, his first album as a leader ~ Macpherosn was born in 1928
September 27, 1991 ~ Bluegrass singer, mandolinist, guitarist, songwriter Sierra Hull born in Byrdstown, Tennessee, USA ~ Child prodigy. Mentored by Alison Krauss. Released her debut album, Angel Mountain, at age 10. Worked with Ron Block, Dan Tyminski, Barry Bales, Randy Kohrs, Shawn Lane, Ronnie Bowman, James Adkins, Big Virginia Sky, Ethan Jodziewivz, Abigail Washburn, Rhiannon Giddens, the Lovell Sisters, Mac Wiseman, Jon Weisburger, David Nalditch, Bobby Osborne, Missy Werner, Cindy Morgan, and others
September 27, 1988 ~ James Charles Heard, commonly known as swing, bop, blues drummer JC Heard, passed away in Royal Oak, Michigan, USA ~ Became a Protégé of drummer Jo Jones through who Heard would meet and sit in with Count Basie, as well as land his first professional job playing in Teddy Wilson's band. Heard would continue on to work with a wide array of musicians including Benny Carter, Louis Jordan, Louis Armstrong, Benny Goodman, Duke Ellington, Woody Herman, Dizzy Gillespie, Roy Eldridge, Charlie Parker, Charles Mingus, Ray Brown, Billie Holiday, Ray Charles, Nat King Cole, Dinah Washington, Lena Horne, Sarah Vaughan, Erroll Garner, Oscar Pettiford, Cab Calloway, and others. Heard was known for his innovative technique and the hard swing he would bring to both large and small bands ~ Heard was born in 1917
September 27, 1986 ~ Heavy metal bassist Cliff Burton, full name Clifford Lee Burton, passed away in Dörarp, Sweden ~ Member of Metallica from 1982 until his death while on tour in 1986. Appears on the band's first three albums, Kill 'Em All, Ride The Lightning and Master Of Puppets. Had previously worked with Angels Of Misfortune, EZ-Street, Spastik Children, and Trauma ~ Burton was born in 1962
September 27, 1984 ~ Singer, songwriter Avril Lavigne, full name Avril Ramona Lavigne, born in Los Angeles, California, USA ~ Signed a 2 million dollar record deal at age 16. Debuted in 2002 with the album Let Go, spawning the hit singles Complicated and Sk8ter Boi and instantly earning her the title “the Queen of Punk-pop”. Also known for songs such as Don't Tell Me, Nobody's Home, and Girlfriend
September 27, 1984 ~ Bassist, guitarist Dan Briggs, full name Daniel Hanford Briggs, born ~ Best known as bassist for progressive metal band Between The Buried And Me, joining the band in 2005 replacing Kevin Falk. First appeared on the Alaska released later the same year. Briggs is also associated with jazz fusion outfit Trioscapes, and with progressive rock groups Nova Collective and the Orbs
September 27, 1982 ~ Pop, rock singer, pianist, songwriter Jon McLaughlin, full name Jonathan McLaughlin, born in Anderson, Indiana, USA ~ Made his major label debut in 2007 with the EP Industry shortly followed by the full-length LP Indiana. Best known for his 2008 single Beating My Heart. Has collaborated with Jason Mraz, Van Hunt, The-Dream, Tricky Stewart, and closely with Sara Bareilles
September 27, 1982 ~ Dwayne Michael Carter Jr, commonly known as rapper, songwriter Lil' Wayne, born in New Orleans, Louisiana, USA ~ Regarded as one of the most influential rappers of his generation. Recorded over a dozen albums, starting with Tha Block Is Hot in 1999. Especially acclaimed for Tha Carter II released in 2005, the second album in a series of five. Well-known for songs such as Lollipop, Right Above It, How To Love, and She Will, all of which reached top 10 Billboard Hot 100. As a featured artist present on top 10 hits by Destiny's Child (Soldier), Lloyd (You), T-Pain (Can't Believe It), and Kevin Rudolf (Let It Rock)
September 27, 1979 ~ Alternative country, alt folk, folk rock singer, guitarist, songwriter Andrew Scott, full name Robert Andrew Scott, born in Grande Prairie, Canada ~ Frontman of the Turncoats, with whom he recorded two albums. Has been recording as a solo artist since his 2003 Rattletale debut album. Best known for songs such as River Of Tears, Sweetie Pie, and I'm Gonna Bust Your Head In
September 27, 1979 ~ Grace Stansfield, commonly known as singer, actress Gracie Fields, passed away in La Canzona Del Mare, Italy ~ Star of both cinema and music hall. As a singer best known for Sally, which became a signature song. Other well known songs include Walter Walter and The Biggest Aspidistra In The World ~ Stansfield was born in 1898
September 27, 1979 ~ James McCulloch, commonly known as rock, pop rock guitarist, bassist Jimmy McCulloch, passed away in Maida Vale, UK ~ Mentored by the Who's Pete Townshend. Brother of drummer Jack McCulloch. Best known for his association with Paul McCartney, appearing on McCartney's 1970 McCartney solo album and subsequently serving as lead guitarist and bassist for Wings on the albums Band On The Run, Venus And Mars, Wings At The Speed Of Sound, and Wings Over America, London Town. McCulloch has also recorded with Thunderclap Newman, Stone The Crows, Billy Lawrie, Speedy Keen, Roger Daltrey, and Roy Harper, McCulloch passed away of heart failure at age 26 due to morphine and alcohol poisoning ~ McCulloch was born in 1953
September 27, 1976 ~ Jam band, rock, ambient, jazz bassist, guitarist, cellist, pianist Reed Mathis born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA ~ Influenced by Ludwig van Beethoven, the Beach Boys, Led Zeppelin, Michael Jackson, and Jimi Hendrix. Performed Antonio Vivaldi's Mandolin Concerto In D on mandolin at age 15 with members of the Tulsa Philharmonic. Best known as co-leader of progressive jazz band Jacob Fred Jazz Odyssey from 1994 through 2008, with whom he recorded well over a dozen albums including the acclaimed Welcome Home, Walking With Giants, and Slow Breath Silent Mind. Has also recorded as a solo artist, as well as with Jared Tyler, Marco Benevento, Tea Leaf Green, the 7 Walkers, Bobby Previte, Mickey Hart, and Electric Beethoven
September 27, 1975 ~ Rock guitarist Adam Kowalczyk born ~ Best known as member of Live. Has also worked with Portion, Mint, and with Adam & the Weight
September 27, 1975 ~ Country, bluegrass guitarist, singer Charlie Monroe passed away in Reidsville, North Carolina, USA ~ Older brother of bluegrass icon Bill Monroe, with whom he also worked. Founded Kentucky Pardners which at times included Lester Flatt, Red Rector, Curly Seckler and Ira Louvin ~ Monroe was born in 1903
September 27, 1974 ~ Alternative rock singer, keyboardist, songwriter, TV personality Davide Dileo, also known as Boosta, born in Turin, Italy ~ Classically trained Deleo became known for his blend of classical piano and electronic music. Considered a virtuosic keyboardist he rose to fame as co-founding member of alternative rock outfit Subsonica, with whom he has recorded over half a dozen albums, starting with the eponymous Subsonica released in 1997. Dileo has also recorded as a solo artist since the mid-2000s, his full-length La Stanza Intelligente released in 2016, and was a member of rock trio Caesar Palace, known for their 2008 Dogs From V-Gas album
September 27, 1974 ~ Maurice Samuel Young, commonly known as rapper Trick Daddy, born in Miami, Florida, USA ~ Known for songs such as In Da Wind featuring Cee Lo Green and Big Boi, Shut Up featuring Duece Poppito and Trina and Let's Go featuring Lil' Jon and Twista. Also collaborated with Ludacris, Lil' Kim, Chamillionaire, Birdman, Tupac Shakur, Memphis Bleek, Ying Yang Twins, DJ Khaled, Pitbull, and others
September 27, 1973 ~ Pop, dance-pop singer, songwriter Lee Brennan, full name Anthony Lee Brennan, born in Carlisle, UK ~ Member of boy band 911, known for a string of British hits in the mid to late 1990s, including Don't Make Me Wait, The Day We Find Love, Bodyshakin', All I Want Is You, More Than A Woman, and perhaps their best-known A Little Bit More
September 27, 1972 ~ Sonero singer, bandleader Abelardo Barroso, full name Abelardo Barroso Dargeles, passed away ~ Arguably the first sonero lead singer to achieve wide acclaim. Lead singer of the Félix Chappottín led the Sexteto Habanero during the mid-1920s. Would go on to work with the Sexteto Boloña, the Septeto Nacional, Salmerón, Prestes Lopez, Andrés Laferté, and the Maravillas del Siglo ~ Barroso was born in 1905
September 27, 1972 ~ Lindha Svantesson, commonly known as jazz singer Lindha Kallerdahl, born in Sweden ~ Married to pianist Fabian Kallerdahl
September 27, 1971 ~ Drummer, percussionist Cass Browne born in Merton, UK ~ Member of pop punk outfit the Senseless Things, known for the UK top 20 hits Easy To Smile and Hold It Down. Following the band's disbandement in 1995 Browne formed alternative dance unit Delakota, touring for a number of years. Guested on Urge Overkill's Neil Diamond-cover Girl You'll Be A Woman Soon as used in the Pulp Fiction soundtrack. Backed Damon Albarn on the 2002 Mali Music album. Also notably known for working with Gorillaz from 2001 through 2012, present on the albums Gorillaz and its follow-up Demon Days. Has also worked with Penguin Cafe, the Deadcuts, Circle 60, Loup Garoux, and others
September 27, 1969 ~ Milira Jones, mononymously known simply as R&B, soul singer Milira, born in Hollis, New York, USA ~ Influenced by jazz singer Sarah Vaughan. Best known for the singles Go Outside In The Rain and the Marvin Gaye-cover Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology) of her eponymous 1990 Milira debut album
September 27, 1969 ~ Heavy metal singer Todd Michael Hall born in Saginaw, Michigan, USA ~ Best known as lead singer for New York heavy metal band Riot since 2013, replacing Tony Moore, and first appeared on the 2014 Unleash The Fire album. Upon his entry in the band they would rename themselves to Riot V, Hall being the fifth lead singer since the band's inception. Hall has also recorded as a solo artist, releasing his Letters From India debut album in 2017, has worked with Harlet, Pulling Teeth, Burning Starr, Reverence, and Avalon, and was a contestant on the 2020 season of talent contest The Voice but failed to make the finals
September 27, 1968 ~ Jennifer Nicole Cedzich, commonly known as actress, songwriter Nicole Taylor Hart, born in Nashville, Tennessee, USA ~ Daughter of country songwriter Chris Gantry. As a songwriter Nicole is best known for penning Generation, the theme song to the TV drama series American Dreams in which she also played . The song was performed by then-husband Tonic singer Emerson Hart. Currently married to singer, songwriter Jace Everett with whom she has two children
September 27, 1968 ~ Víctor Manuelle Ruiz Velázquez, commonly known as salsa, bolero, Latin pop singer, percussionist Víctor Manuelle, born in New York, New York, USA ~ Has recorded about two dozen albums since the early 1990s. Would rise to fame in the mid to late-1990s as one of the leading voices in salsa romantica, especially on the strength of his eponymous 1996 Víctor Manuelle and its 1997 A Pesar De Todo follow-up album. Sang an a cappela version of Celia Cruz's signature song La Vida Es Un Carnaval at her funeral in 2003
September 27, 1966 ~ Lorenzo Cherubini, commonly known as singer, rapper, songwriter Jovanotti, born in Italy ~ Initially fusing hip-hop, rap and disco, gradually expanding the scope to include funk, world music, classical, and ska influences. Debuted in 1988 with Jovanotti For President, which garnered mostly negative reviews but reached No.3 on the Italian charts and spawned five Top 5 singles. Has collaborated with U2 and Michael Franti, both of which misspelled his name as “Giovanotti” in their respective liner notes
September 27, 1965 ~ Banjoist, bandleader Harry Reser, full name Harrison Franklin Reser, passed away in New York, New York, USA ~ Regarded by some as the best banjoist of his day. In 1934 recorded the first version of Santa Claus Is Comin' To Town, written by J Fred Coots and Haven Gillespie. The song would become a Holiday classic and over time be recorded by over 200 artists. As a composer Reser is best known for The Cat And The Dog, Cracker Jack and Lolly Pops, all written for tenor banjo. Reser has collaborated with artists such as the Clicquot Club Eskimos, Ben Selvin, Benny Krueger, Sam Lanin, Nathan Glantz, Mike Markel, Peg LaCentra, Ray Heatherton, Bing Crosby, Peggy Lee, and others ~ Reser was born in 1896
September 27, 1964 ~ Jazz drummer Matt Wilson born in Knoxville, Illinois, USA ~ About a dozen albums as a leader, especially acclaimed for As Wave Follows Wave and Smile. In-demand sideman, present on albums by Emery Davis, the Either/Orchestra (The Brunt), Don Friedman, Garrison Fewell, Third Person, Joe Mulholland (Second Sight), Dewey Redman (In London), Lee Konitz, Mario Pavone, David Liebman, the Falkner-Evans Trio, Bill Mays (Going Home), Frank Kimbrough, Denny Zeitlin (Slickrock), Charlie Haden, Trio M, and Eric Rasmussen
September 27, 1963 ~ Twin brothers drummer, keyboardist Jeremy Stacey and guitarist, producer Paul Stacey born in London, UK ~ Both brothers were members of the Lemon Trees, known for their sole Open Book album. The pair would continue to work together as well as separately. Jeremy is noted especially for backing Robbie Williams on albums such as Sing When You're Winning, Escapology, and Swings Both Ways, and has also worked with Susanna Hoffs, Charlotte Gainsbourg, Joe Cocker, Sheryl Crow, and Ryan Adams. Paul is best known as engineer, and session bassist, guitarist, keyboardist for Oasis, including on UK top 10 hits such as Who Feels Love, The Hindu Times, and Little By Little
September 27, 1962 ~ Singer Connie Francis records Follow The Boys ~ Written by Benny Davis and Murray Mencher as theme song for the 1963 comedy of the same name. Released as a Danny Davis-produced single, b/w Waiting For Billy, it would reach top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100. Francis would later also record versions in German, Italian, French, Spanish and Japanese
September 27, 1960 ~ Rock singer, guitarist, drummer David Koller born in Prague, Czechoslovakia ~ Active since the early 1980s, playing in bands such as Jasná Páka, Zentour, Pusa, and Blue Effect. Co-founded Lucie in 1985, with whom he recorded seven albums before departing the band in 2005. Koller has also fronted his own unit the Kollerband, co-written several soundtracks, and served as producer for a wide array of artists
September 27, 1959 ~ Pop, rock singer Lies Schilp born ~ Worked with Gruppo Sportivo, Herman Brood, the Bombitas, Inge Bonthond, Udo Lindenberg, Girls Wanna Have Fun, and others
September 27, 1958 ~ Film, theatre, opera pianist, composer Paul Grabowsky, full name Paul Atherstone Grabowsky, born in Melbourne, Australia ~ Worked with Steve Vizard, Robyn Archer, Red Symons, Chet Baker, Art Farmer, Johnny Griffin, Allan Browne, Gary Cosello, Katie Noonan, Bernie McGann, Jamie Oehlers, David Beck, Niko Schäuble, Vince Jones, Mark Helias, Mirko Guerrini, Scott Tinkler, Kate Ceberano, and others
September 27, 1958 ~ Actor, singer, teen idol Shaun Cassidy, full name Shaun Paul Cassidy, born in Los Angeles, California, USA ~ Active since his teens in the early 1970s. Shot to fame with his role in the TV series The Hardy Boys Mysteries and his first two albums, generating hits such as Da-doo-ron-ron, the Eric Carmen-penned That's Rock 'n Roll, and Hey Deanie. Brother of actor singer Patrick Cassidy, half-brother of actor, singer David Cassidy. As an actor Shaun focused on a stage career for most of the 1980s and 1990s, starring in Broadway and West End-shows such as Mass Appeal and Bus Stop. Would eventually venture into writing and producing TV shows such as American Gothic, The Agency and Hysteria
September 27, 1957 ~ Gerald Joseph Weldon, commonly known as jazz tenor saxophonist Jerry Weldon born ~ Leader and sideman. Worked with Jack McDuff, Jimmy McGriff, Joey DeFrancesco, Bobby Forrester, Dr Lonnie Smith, Melvin Rhyne, Al Grey, George Cables, Cedar Walton, Roy Haynes, Jimmy Cobb, George Benson, Earl Klugh, Keter Betts, Mel Tormé, Harry Connick Jr, Lionel Hampton, and others
September 27, 1957 ~ Electric blues singer, guitarist, pianist, songwriter Johnny Sansone born in West Orange, New Jersey, USA ~ Worked with Robert Lockwood Junior, David Honeyboy Edwards, Jimmy Rogers, the Wetlands Allstars, Anders Osborne, Jon Cleary, Joe Krown, John Fohl, Monk Boudreaux, and others
September 27, 1956 ~ Blues harpist, songwriter, producer Bob Corritore born in Chicago, Illinois, USA ~ Produced artists such as Big Leon Brooks and Little Willie Anderson. Acclaimed for his 2011 collaborative Harmonica Blues album. Also worked with Louisiana Red, Janiva Magness, John Primer, Dave Riley, Jimmie Vaughan, Junior Watson, Kid Ramos, Tail Dragger Jones, Henry Gray, Big Pete Pearson, RL Burnside, Willie Big Eyes Smith, Sam Lay, Mud Morganfield, Smokin' Joe Kubek, Kim Wilson, and others
September 27, 1956 ~ Keyboardist, songwriter, producer David Garfield born ~ Worked with Smokey Robinson, Cher, Larry Carlton, Steve Lukather, Spinal Tap, George Benson, the Manhattan Transfer, Eros Ramazzotti, the Rippingtons, Freddie Hubbard, Boz Scaggs, Oleta Adams, Brenda Russell, Natalie Cole, Michael Bolton, Boz Scaggs, Flora Purim, the Blues Brothers, Gerald Albright, Alex Ligertwood, Willie Bobo, Tom Scott, Brandon Fields, Steve Tavaglione, Pauline Wilson, Mike Porcaro, and others
September 27, 1954 ~ Folk singer, guitarist, violinist, banjoist, bassist, songwriter Dougie MacLean born in Dunblane, UK ~ One of Scotland's premier singer, songwriters. Best known for Caledonia and The Gael. The former is considered Scotland's unofficial national anthem, the later was used as the main theme to the 1992 film The Last Of The Mohicans. Has toured and recorded with the Tannahill Weavers and Silly Wizard. Songs written by MacLean have been covered by a host of artists including Dolores Keane, Ronan Keating, Paolo Nutini, Amy MacDonald, Mary Black, and others
September 27, 1954 ~ Disco, soul singer, songwriter Keith Barrow, full name Keith Errol Barrow, born in Chicago, Illinois, USA ~ Penned Teach Me (Something About Love), a modest mid-1970s hit for Blue Magic. Recorded three albums as a solo artist until his untimely death of AIDS-related complications at age 29, starting with the Bobby Eli-producer eponymous Keith Barrow in 1977. Barrow is fondly remembered among disco afficionados for songs such as Mr Magic Man, You Know You Want To Be Loved, Turn Me Up, and Physical Attraction ~ Barrow passed away in 1983
September 27, 1954 ~ Larry Morganfield, commonly known as blues singer Mud Morganfield, born in Chicago, Illinois, USA ~ Eldest son of Mildred Wiliams and Muddy Waters, rarely seeing his father though. Only became professional musician after his father's death spurred on by a recurring dream of his father performing on stage urging him to begin a career in music. Morganfield's tone and timber has often been to compared to his father's
September 27, 1953 ~ Reggae, dub bassist, singer Robbie Shakespeare, full name Robert Warren Dale Shakespeare, born in Kingston, Jamaica ~ Regarded as one of the most influential dub, reggae bassists. Closely associated with Sly Dunbar, forming the duo Sly & Robbie. Has worked with artists such as the Revolutionaries, the Aggrovators, U-Roy, Peter Tosh, Bunny Wailer, Dennis Brown, Gregory Isaacs, Sugar Minott, Augustus Pablo, Yellowman, Black Uhuru, the GG All-Stars, Grace Jones, Mick Jagger, and others ~ Shakespeare passed away in 2021
September 27, 1952 ~ Guitarist, bassist, singer Bob Curiano, full name Robert Paul Curiano, born ~ First gained attention in the late 1970s playing bass for Mink DeVille. Served as producer on early recordings by the Backstreet Boys. Has also worked with Ritchie Blackmore in the early 20001. Joined Rainbow in 2015, going by the new moniker of Bob Nouveau
September 27, 1951 ~ Classical guitarist David Starobin born in New York, New York, USA ~ Hailed as one of the most influential classical guitarists of the late 20th century. Had compositions written for him by Elliott Carter, George Crumb, Poul Ruders, and Gunther Schuller. Well over a dozen albums to his name, especially acclaimed for New Music With Guitar Vol.4 released in 1990, and Family Album released in 2008. Founded Bridge Records. Teaches at the Curtis Institute Of Music, which he founded, and at the Manhattan School Of Music
September 27, 1950 ~ Linda Ann Fredericks, commonly known as pop, soul, rock singer, guitarist, songwriter Linda Lewis, born in West Ham, UK ~ Influenced by Harry Nilsson, Billie Holiday, and Smokey Robinson. As a solo artist best known for the 1970s singles Rock A Doodle Doo and It's In His Kiss, the latter a cover of the Betty Everett classic, both of which reached top 20 in her native England. As a session backing singer Lewis has appeared on albums by Cat Stevens, Chris Spedding, David Bowie (Aladdin Sane), Hummingbird, Cockney Rebel, Rod Stewart (Blondes Have More Fun), Joan Armatrading, and Jamiroquai (Emergency On Planet Earth) ~ Fredericks passed away in 2023
September 27, 1949 ~ Allan Curtis Barnes, commonly known as saxophonist, clarinetist Allan Barnes, born in Detroit, Michigan, USA ~ Leader and sideman. Founded and lead Primetime. Worked with Donald Byrd, Gil Scott-Heron, Lyman Woodard David II, Robert Guillaume, Wilson Pickett, Christian Dimaggio, Blackbyrds, Lakeside, Cen Lucas, Prince, the Mizell Brothers, Marcus Belgrave, Harold McKinney, Bootsy Collins, the Detroit Experiment, Regina Carter, Geri Allen, the Dramatics, Reggie Braxton, Sandy Patton, Dwight Adams, Sunny Wilkinson, Sunny Girl, Martha Reeves, Martha Wilson, Teddy Harris, Roy Brooks, Big John Patton, Milt Hinton, Grant Green, Pharoah Sanders, Sonny Rollins, and Billy Taylor ~ Barnes passed away in 2016
September 27, 1949 ~ Singer, guitarist, bassist, percussionist Jahn Teigen born in Tønsberg ~ Member of Popol Vuh and subsequently Popol Ace during the 1970s. Member of the comedy musical trio Prima Vera, with whom he recorded about half a dozen albums from 1977 through 1984. Represented his native Norway at the Eurovision Songfestival three times, reaching 20th place in 1978 with Mil Etter Mil, duetting with his future wife Anita Skorgan in 1982 reaching 12th place with Adieu, and in 1983 reaching 9th place with Do-re-mi ~ Teigen passed away in 2020
September 27, 1948 ~ Soul, jazz singer Herb McQuay born ~ Perhaps best known for his 1980 Edwin Starr-cover Oh How Happy. Appeared in a number of musicals during the 1980s, notably Porgy & Bess and Bye Bye Birdie. Also known as a member of a latter-day line-up of the Platters, remaining with the group from 1995 until his death in 2005 ~ McQuay passed away in 2005
September 27, 1948 ~ Rock, pop, country drummer, percussionist Russ Kunkel, full name Russell Kunkel, born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA ~ In-demand session drummer. Present on seminal 1970s albums such as James Taylor's Sweet Baby James, Joni Mitchell's Blue, and Jackson Browne's For Everyman. Closely associated with David Crosby and Graham Nash, touring with the duo and appearing on all four of their 1970s albums. Also appeared on albums by BB King, Bob Dylan, the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Jackie DeShannon, Carole King (Tapestry), the Everly Brothers, Seals & Crofts (Summer Breeze), Carly Simon, Linda Ronstadt, Neil Sedaka, Maria Muldaur, Bette Midler (Broken Blossom), Jennifer Warnes, Karla Bonoff (Karla Bonoff), Neil Young, Warren Zevon, and JJ Cale
September 27, 1947 ~ Singer, guitarist, pianist, songwriter Barbara Dickson, full name Barbara Ruth Dickson, born in Dunfermine, UK ~ Emerged from the late-1960s folk scene, especially working with Archie Fisher and John MacKinnon. Solo since the early 1970s. Eventually gravitated to more mainstream pop. Well over a dozen albums to her name. Best known for songs such as I Know Him So Well, Answer Me and January February
September 27, 1947 ~ Marvin Lee Aday, commonly known as rock singer Meat Loaf, born in Dallas, Texas, USA ~ Praised for his powerful, operatic voice and theatrical stage presence. Best known for his Bat Out Of Hell-trilogy consisting of 1977's Bat Out Of Hell, 1993's Bat Out Of Hell II (Back Into Hell) and 2006's Bat Out Of Hell III (The Monster Is Loose). Compounded the trilogy has sold over an estimated 65 million records ~ Aday passed away in 2022
September 27, 1945 ~ Pianist Misha Dichter born in Shanghai, China ~ Rose to fame after winning Silver at the 1966 International Tchaikovsky Competition in Moscow. Would go on to perform with renowned orchestras such as the Boston Symphony Orchestra, the New York Philharmonic, the Berlin Philharmonic, the Concertgebouw Orchestra and others
September 27, 1944 ~ Country singer, guitarist, songwriter Patrick Haggerty born ~ Lead singer, guitarist, sole constant member for country outfit Lavender Country throughout its existence from 1972 through 1976. The band is known for their eponymous 1973 Lavender Country album, the first gay-themed album in country music history. The album was funded and released by the Gay Community Social Services of Seattle, with just 1,000 copies pressed at the time of its original release. Haggerty has also worked with gay country music groups Doug Stevens & the Outband and Pearl River, ran two unsuccessful campaigns for political office in Washington, and would continue to work as a gay rights and anti-racism activist ~ Haggerty passed away in 2022
September 27, 1943 ~ Vocal group the Andrews Sisters and singer Bing Crosby record Pistol Packin' Mama ~ Written and originally recorded by Al Dexter earlier the same year. Released as a single, paired with Crosby's Vict'ry Polka on the flip side, in October 1943. Crosby's version would quickly rise on the charts, equaling Dexter's original in popularity
September 27, 1943 ~ Singer, guitarist, songwriter Randy Bachman, full name Randolph Charles Bachman born in Winnipeg, Canada ~ Studied violin as a child but was inspired to take up guitar after seeing Elvis Presley on TV. Has stated that his guitar playing was influenced by his violin studies, his guitar solos tending to be smooth, slow lines. Has cited Lenny Breau, Leslie West, and Wes Montgomery as influences. Co-founded Al & the Silvertones with Chad Allan in 1960, a band that through a number of line-up changes would eventually be renamed to the Guess Who, known for songs such as Shakin' All Over, These Eyes, and American Woman. The latter would be the first Billboard Hot 100 No.1 hit for a Canadian band. Following his departure from the band in 1970 founded country rock outfit Brave Belt, which would evolve into Bachman-Turner Overdrive, and become known for 1970s hits such as Roll On Down The Highway and You Ain't Seen Nothing Yet. Bachman has also recorded over a dozen albums as a solo artist, starting with Axe released in 1970, and collaborated with Ironhorse, Bachman Cummings, Bachman & Turner, Ringo Starr, Jeff Healey, and Pete Townshend
September 27, 1941 ~ Producer, singer, saxophonist, songwriter Don Nix, full name William Donald Nix, born in Memphis, Tennessee, USA ~ Cited as “one of the more obscure figures” in Southern soul and rock, yet considered a key figure. Played saxophone for the Mar-keys, which also included the entire future line-up of Booker T & the MG's, best known for their 1961 instrumental single Last Night. Nix would go on to serve as producer, arranger, session musician for the likes of Leon Russell, Gary Lewis & the Playboys, John Mayall, Lonnie Mack, Furry Lewis, Isaac Hayes, the Staple Singers, the Alabama State Troopers, Eric Clapton, and others. Nix is also an acclaimed songwriter, writing or co-writing songs such as the oft-covered Going Down (Moloch), Palace Of The King (Freddie King), Everybody Wants To Go To Heaven and For The Love Of A Woman (Albert King), and Black Cat Moan (Beck Bogert & Appice)
September 27, 1941 ~ Double bassist, bassist Uli Trepte born in Konstanz, Germany ~ Played avantgarde, free jazz in the mid-1960s, working with the likes of Yusef Lateef, Gato Barbieri, Barney Wilen, John McLaughlin, Mal Waldron, and notably with Irene Schweizer. Switched to bass guitar in the late 1960s, forming krautrock outfit Guru Guru with drummer Mani Neumeier in 1968. Formed his own unit Spacebox in 1975, with whom he worked through the early 1980s. Recorded about half a dozen albums as a solo artist, starting with Real Time Music released in 1996 ~ Trepte passed away in 2009
September 27, 1940 ~ Soul, R&B singer, songwriter Harvey Scales born in Osceola, Arkansas, USA ~ Influenced by James Brown. Formed and fronted Harvey Scales & the 7 Sounds, known for their sole hit single Get Down released in 1967. The single's B-side, Love-Itis, would later be notably covered by the J Geils Band. Others who have recorded songs written or co-written by Scales include the Dells, the Dramatics, Tavares, Jesse James, the O'Jays, and notably Johnnie Taylor, the latter reaching the No.1 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 with Disco Lady released in 1976 ~ Scales passed away in 2019
September 27, 1940 ~ Jazz pianist, keyboardist Mike Nock born in Christchurch, New Zealand ~ Leader ans sideman. First gained serious attention backing Yusef Lateef from 1963 through 1965. Fronted the Fourth Way band during the late 1960s. Has collaborated with Bennie Maupin, Charlie Mariano, Michael Brecker, John Abercrombie, Alex Foster, Phil Slater, Tal Farlow, John Klemmer, Eric Kloss, Jeremy Steig, and others
September 27, 1937 ~ Jazz trumpeter, flugelhornist Guido Basso born in Montreal, Canada ~ One of Canada's premier jazz trumpeters. Toured with Pearl Bailey and her husband drummer Louie Bellson during the late 1950s. About half a dozen albums as a leader or co-leader, especially acclaimed for his 1986 eponymous Guido Basso album. Frequently collaborated with Rob McConnell. Also present on albums by Jean-Pierre Ferland, Peter Appleyard, Stratavarious, the THP Orchestra, the Hi-Lo's, Sammy Nestico, Anne Murray, Raffi, Marc Jordan, Dione Taylor, Chantal Chamberland, and Diana Panton ~ Basso passed away in 2023
September 27, 1927 ~ Blues harpist, singer, songwriter Earring George Mayweather born in Montgomery, Alabama, USA ~ Recorded one album, 1992's Whup It Whup It, as a solo artist. Active since the 1950s. Declined an offer to join Muddy Waters touring band in 1952. Worked with JB Hutto, Eddie Porkchop Hines, the Hawks, Eddie Taylor, Bo Diddley, and others ~ Mayweather passed away in 1995
September 27, 1927 ~ Dobroist Josh Graves born in Monroe County, Tennessee, USA ~ Best known for introducing the resonator guitar, more commonly known as dobro, in bluegrass music. Member of Flatt & Scruggs' backing unit the Foggy Mountain Boys. Also worked with the Pierce Brothes, Mac Wiseman, Kenny Baker, the Masters, and others ~ Graves passed away in 2006
September 27, 1927 ~ Robert Roland Chudnik, commonly known as trumpeter Red Rodney, born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA ~ A professional musician from age 15 Rodney started in the mid-1940s employed in the big bands of leaders such as Jerry Wald, Jimmy Dorsey, Georgie Auld, Elliot Lawrence, Benny Goodman, and Les Brown. Moved onto bebop playing with Claude Thornhill, Gene Krupa, Woody Herman, and Charlie Parker. Later on Rodney worked as a bandleader, most notably and intensely associated with Ira Sullivan, served under Russ Black, struggled with a heroin addiction, gave music lessons to MC5 guitarist Wayne Kramer while incarcerated on drug offences, rejuvenated his career from the early 1970s onwards, reunited with Sullivan and performed with Dizzy Gillespie, appeared on a Charlie Parker tribute album by the Rolling Stones drummer Charlie Watts, and worked as an adviser for Bird, a Parker bio-pic ~ Chudnick passed away in 1994
September 27, 1924 ~ Earl Rudolph Powell, commonly known as pianist Bud Powell, born in Harlem, New York, USA ~ Leader and sideman. Pivotal to the development of bebop. Played with Cootie Williams, Oscar Pettiford, Dizzy Gillespie, Frank Socolow, Sarah Vaughan, Dexter Gordon, JJ Johnson, Sonny Stitt, Fats Navarro, Kenny Clarke, Charlie Parker, Miles Davis, Tommy Potter, Max Roach, Roy Haynes, Ray Brown, George Duvivier, Percy Heath, Lloyd Trotman, Art Blakey, Kenny Clarke, Osie Johnson, Buddy Rich, Richie Powell, JJ Johnson, Clifford Brown, and others ~ Powell passed away in 1966
September 27, 1901 ~ Bandleader, composer Beasley Smith, full name John Beasley Smith, born in McEwen, Tennessee, USA ~ As a bandleader worked with singers such as Snooky Lanson, Dottie Dillard, Kitty Kallen and Dinah Shore. As a songwriter perhaps best known for co-writing That Lucky Old Sun with Haven Gillespie, popularized by Frankie Laine and later covered by numerous artists including Frank Sinatra, Jerry Lee Lewis, Grant Green, Sam Cooke, Aretha Franklin, Johnny Cash, and Chris Isaak ~ Smith passed away in 1968
September 27, 1898 ~ Producer, songwriter Vincent Youmans, full name Vincent Millie Youmans, born in New York, New York, USA ~ Leading Broadway composer of his day. Co-wrote songs such as Orchids In The Moonlight (Raul Roulien, Rudy Vallée, Dinah Shore), Tea For Two (Phyllis Cleveland, Teddy Weatherford, Doris Day), Sometimes I'm Happy Sometimes I'm Blue (the Six Hottentots, Jack Hylton, Mildred Bailey), and More Than You Know (Mayo Methot, Ruth Etting, Lena Horne) ~ Youmans passed away in 1946
September 27, 1885 ~ Songwriter, lyricist Joseph McCarthy, full name Thomas Joseph McCarthy, born in Somerville, Massachusetts, USA ~ Perhaps best remembered for co-writing You Made Me Love You (I Didn't Want To Do It) with songwriter James Monaco, performed originally by Al Jolson in 1913 and recorded by numerous artists including Doris Day, Perry Como, Jackie Wilson, Aretha Franklin, and Patsy Cline. McCarthy also frequently collaborated with composers such as Harry Tierney, Fred Fisher, and Cy Coleman. Served as director of ASCAP from 1921 to 1929 ~ McCarthy passed away in 1943
September 27, 1880 ~ Violinist Jacques Thibaud born in Bordeaux, France ~ Had to rebuild his technique after being injured in World War I. Noted for his performances as a soloist as well in small chamber ensembles, notably in a trio with Alfred Cortot and Pablo Casals. Has also toured with Yves Nat and George Enescu. Had 2nd Sonata For Solo Violin written especially for him by close friend Eugène Ysaÿe. Thibaud, his daughter-in-law, and pianist René Herbin were killed in the 1953 Air France Flight 178 plane crash ~ Thibaud passed away in 1953