Doc Rock Presents,

The 1980s
 Welcome to The Dead Rock Stars Club. This site is  a list of dead rock stars, dead people associated with rock and dead people whose music helped influence and create rock (which I feel includes Jazz and Country artists), sorted by the date of their demise. This is a tribute to them.
LONG LIVE ROCK !!





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1980

John Walker - Died 198? - Suicide ( Punk ) Guitarist - Was a member of Warsaw Pakt (They did, "Lorraine" and "Even Money").

Tony Amato - Died 198? ( Doo Wop ) Singer - Was a member of The Fabulous Exquisites and The Sharptones renamed The Fairlanes and finally renamed The Chaperones (They did, "Cruise To The Moon" and "Shining Star") - Worked with Lou Jordan and Lee Adrian.

Larry Benjamin - Died 198? - Promo man and road manager for Parliament/Funkadelic.

Per Ivar Johansen - Died 1980 - Tour bus crash ( Pop - Rock ) Drummer - Worked with Alex Naumik.

Harry Gay - Died 1980 ( Ragtime - Blues ) Born 11-23-1904 in Gate City, VA. U.S. - Played guitar - Was half of the duo, Tarter & Gay (They did, "Brownie Blues" and "Unknown Blues").

Jean Claude Llabador - Died 1980 - Car accident ( Jazz Rock ) Played guitar and keyboards -Was a member of Coincidence.

Fezz Fritsche (Victor Fritsche) - Died 1980 - Cancer ( Polka ) Born 1908 - Played clarinet - (He did, "Tanta Anna") - Led The Goosetown Band - International Polka Music Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Les Prior - Died 1980 - Leukemia ( Rock - Reggae - Comedy ) Singer - Was a member of Alberto y Lost Trios Paranoias (They did, "Gobbing On Life" and "Snuffin' In A Babylon").

Wally Scott - Died 1980 - Cancer ( Rock ) Guitarist - Was a member of Ray Columbus And The Invaders (They did, "Money Lover" and "So In Love").

Milo MacMahon - Died 1980 - He was half of Duo Ouro Negro (They did, "Vou Levar-te Comigo" and "Muamba Banana e Cola").

Dennis Lundh - Died 1980 - Cancer ( Prog - Psychedelic ) Percussionist - Was a member of Algarnas Tradgard (They did, "Two Hours Over Two Blue Mountains With A Cockoo On Each Side Of The Hours….That Is" and "The Future Is A Hovering Ship, Anchored In The Past").

Dieter Meyer (aka Dieter Meier) - Died 1980 ( Rock ) Bassist - Was a member of Wallenstein.

Jac Murphy - Died 1980 - Shot himself ( Rock - Folk ) Pianist (He did,"Child's Gift" and "My Bells") Worked with Doc Crippen, Michael Murphy (Recorded,"Swans Against The Sun") and David Soul (Recorded,"Playing To An Audience Of One").

Don Duprey - Died 1980 ( Dance music ) Played trombone - Worked with The Maurice Spitalny Orchestra - Was married to singer Joan Duprey.

Joe Crane - Died 1980 - Leukemia ( Rock ) Singer, guitarist and keyboardist - Was a member of The Hoodoo Rhythm Devils (They did,"Snake Doctor" and  "Hoodoo Beat").

Carl Feaster - Died 1980 ( Doo-Wop - R&B ) Was a member of The Chords (They did,"Sh-Boom").

Al Banks (Andrew Banks)- Died 1980 ( Jazz ) Born 7-26-1927 - Played bass - Worked with Gerald Wiggins and Arnold Ross.

Gerald Thomson - Died 1980 ( R&B - Doo-Wop ) Was a member of Lee Andrews And The Hearts

J.R. Bailey (James Ralph Bailey) - Died 1-?-1980 ( R&B ) Born 2-26-1934 in South Carolina, U.S. - (He did, "After Hours" and wrote "Everybody Plays The Fool")  Was a member of The Halos (They did, "Nag"), The Cadillacs (They did, "Speedoo") and The Crickets.

J. Mayo Williams (aka Ink ) (Jay Mayo Williams) - Died 1-2-1980 in Chicago, Illinois, U.S. - Born 9-25-1894 in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, U.S. - Produced or recorded Muddy Waters, Blind Lemon Jefferson, Blind Boy Fuller, Ma Rainey, Papa Charlie Jackson, Louis Jordan and Tampa Red - Worked for The Vocalion, Paramount, Decca and Brunswick labels - Blues Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Amos Milburn - Died 1-3-1980 ( Blues ) Born 4-1-1927 in Houston, Texas, U.S. - Singer, song writer and piano player - (Recorded, "Bad, Bad Whiskey" and the original, "One Bourbon, One Scotch, One Beer").

Uncle Homer Walker (John Homer Walker) - Died 1-4-1980 in Princeton, WV, U.S. ( Blues ) Born 2-15-1898 in Summers County, WV, U.S. - Played banjo and sang - (He did, "Sugar Hill" and "Cripple Creek").

Georgeanna Tillman (Georgeanna Marie Tillman) - Died 1-6-1980 - Lupus ( Rock ) Born 1944 - She was a singer for The Marvelettes (They recorded, "Please Mr. Postman" and "Don't Mess With Bill").

Carl White - Died 1-7-1980 - Acute tonsillitis ( Rock ) Born 6-21-1932 - Was a member of The Rivingtons (They did, "The Bird's The Word" and, "Papa-Oom-Mow-Mow").

Larry Williams (Lawrence E. Williams) - Died 1-7-1980 in Los Angeles, CA, U.S. - Shot himself ( R&B ) Born 5-10-1935 in New Orleans, Louisiana, U.S. - Singer, songwriter and piano player - (Recorded, "Bony Moronie" & "Dizzy Miss Lizzy")  Was a member of The Lemon Drops - Worked with  Johnny "Guitar" Watson ("Mercy, Mercy, Mercy"), Roy Brown, Percy Mayfield and Lloyd Price.

Andre Kostelanetz - Died 1-13-1980 - Natural causes ( Pop - Easy Listening ) Born 12-22-1901 in St. Petersburg, Russia - Invented easy listening music -  Invented a mechanical tuning instrument which was adapted by the U.S. military to track submarines - Was married to the diva, Lily Pons.

Vic McAlpin (Vernice Johnson McAlpin) - Died 1-19-1980 in Nashville, TN, U.S. - Born 2-4-1918 in Defeated Creek, TN, U.S. - Songwriter - (Co-wrote, "What Is Life Without Love" and "Before This Day Ends") - Nashville Songwriters Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Piero Ciampi (aka Piero Litaliano) - Died 1-19-1980 in Rome, Italy - Throat cancer - Born 9-28-1934 in Livorno, Italy - Singer, double bassist and songwriter - (He did, "Il Vino" and "Uffa che noia").

Peter Schmidt - Died 1-22-1980 in La Gomera, Canary Islands, Spain - Born 5-17-1931 in Berlin, Germany - Multimedia artist - He co-authored Oblique Strategies, (a deck of card with different strategies for creating music) with Brian Eno.

Ed Garland (aka Montudi) (Edward Bertram Garland) - Died 1-22-1980 ( Jazz ) Born 1-9-1895 in New Orleans, LA, U.S. - Bassist - Worked with Kid Ory, Jelly Roll Morton, Buddy Bolden, Mabel Lee Lane and Joe "King" Oliver.

Babs Gonzales - Died 1-23-1980 in Newark, NJ, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 10-27-1919 in Newark, NJ, U.S. - Singer - Was a member of Three Bips & A Bop (They did, "Oop-Pop-A-Da" and "Prelude To A Nightmare") - Worked with Charlie Barnet, Sonny Rollins, Tadd Dameron and Lionel Hampton.

Seab Meador (Robert Seaborn Meador) - Died 1-24-1980 - Brain cancer? ( Rock ) Guitarist - Was a member of The Gentlemen (They did, "You Can't Be True" and "It's A Cry'n Shame") and The Werewolves.

Jimmy Durante (James Francis Durante) (aka Schnozzola and Ragtime Jimmy) - Died 1-29-1980 in Santa Monica, CA, U.S. - Pneumonia ( Jazz ) Born 2-10- 1893 in Brooklyn, NY, U.S. - Singer, pianist, comedian and actor - (He did, "Inka Dinka Doo" and a version of "Make Someone Happy") - Was a member of The Original New Orleans Jazz Band and led Durante's Jazz And Novelty - Worked with The Original Memphis Five, Ladd's Black Aces, Bailey's Lucky Seven and Lanin's Southern Serenaders Band - Ha-cha-cha-chaaaaaaa!

Professor Longhair (Henry Roeland "Roy" Byrd) The grandfather of rock'n'roll - Died 1-30-1980 in New Orleans, LA, U.S. in his sleep of natural causes ( R&B ) Born 12-19-1918 in Bogalusa, Louisiana, U.S. - Piano player, singer and songwriter - (He did, "Go To The Mardi Gras") - Was a member of The Mid- Drifs, Professor Longhair And The Four Hairs, Professor Longhair And His Shuffling Hungarians (They did, "She Ain't Got No Hair") and The Blues Jumpers (They did, "Bald Head") Louisiana Blues Hall Of Fame Inductee  and  Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Warren Smith - Died 1-30-1980 - Heart attack ( Rockabilly ) Born 2-7-1933 - (He did, "Uranium Rock" and "Black Jack David").

Chubby Anthony (Donald Lee Anthony) - Died 2-5-1980 ( Country ) Born 12-20-1935 in Lincolnton, NC, U.S. - Worked with The Stanley Brothers.

Jerry Fielding (Joshua Itzhak Feldman) - Died 2-17-1980 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada ( Jazz ) Born 6-17-1922 in Pittsburgh, PA, U.S. - Composer, conductor, musical director and arranger - Led The Jerry Fielding Orchestra - Wrote music for TV's, Star Trek, McHale's Navy and Hogan's Heroes - Worked for Alvino Rey, The Town Criers, Claude Thornhill, Jimmie Lunceford, Tommy Dorsey, Charlie Barnet, Les Brown and Kay Kyser.

Bon Scott ( Ronald Belford Scott ) - Died 2-19-1980 in East Dulwich, South-east London, England - Choked on his vomit while intoxicated ( R&B - Metal ) Born 7-9-1946 in Kirriemuir, Scotland, U.S. - Was the singer for AC\DC (They did, "Highway To Hell" and "Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap") - Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Shorty Sherock - Died 2-19-1980 ( Jazz ) Born 11-17-1915 - Played trumpet - Worked with Charlie Pierce, Jimmy Dorsey, Dell Coon, Benny Carter, Ben Pollack and Alvino Rey.

Nate McCalla (Nathan McCalla) - Died 2-20-1980 in Fort Lauderdale, FL, U.S. - Murdered - Born 3-12-1930 in Harlem, NY, U.S. - Owned The Calla record label which released J.J. Jackson's, "But It's Alright" and records by The Persuaders, Jean Wells, Billy Mitchell, The Sandpebbles, Betty LaVette and Rudy Love.

Jacob "Killer" Miller - Died 2-21-1980 - Car crash ( Reggae ) Born 1957 - Was a member of Inner Circle ( They did the song, "Bad Boy" for the TV show "Cops" ).

Janet Vogel Rapp - Died 2-21-1980 - Suicide by carbon monoxide poisoning ( Soul ) Born 6-10-1942 in Pittsburgh, PA, U.S. - Sang for The El Rio's and The Skyliners (They recorded, "Since I Don't Have You") - Vocal Group Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Rev. A.C. Robinson (Arthur Clay Robinson) - Died 2-24-1980 in San Francisco, CA, U.S. ( Blues - Gospel ) Born 4-12-1915 in Brenham, TX, U.S. - Played stand up bass and harmonica and sang - Worked with his brother, L.C. Robinson as The Robinson Brothers (They did, "I Don't Know What I Would Do Without The Lord" and "Sweet Jesus").

Dick Kallman (Richard Kallman) - Died 2-28-1980 - Stabbed to death ( Actor - Singer - Songwriter ) Born 7-7-1933 - He wrote songs for the movies Rockabilly Baby and Cry Baby Killer - He portrayed Hank Dearborn on TV's Hank.

Don Albert (Albert Anite Dominique) - Died 3-?-1980 in San Antonio, TX, U.S. - Kidney failure ( Jazz ) Born 8-5-1908 in New Orleans, LA, U.S. - Trumpeter and bandleader - Nephew of trumpeter Natty Dominique.

John Jacob Niles - Dean of American Balladeers - Died 3-1-1980 in Lexington, KY, U.S. ( Folk ) Born 4-28-1892 in Louisville, KY, U.S. - Sang and played dulcimer and lute and was a composer and a collector of folk ballads - (He wrote, "Black Is The Color Of My True Love's Hair" and "Go 'Way From My Window") - Kentucky Music Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Anna Jantar (aka Anna Maria Kukulska) (Anna Maria Szmeterling) - Died 3-14-1980 Warsaw, Poland - Plane crash while attempting to land ( Pop ) Born 6-10-1950 in Poznan, Poland - Singer and painist - (She did, "So Much Sun In The Whole Town" and "The Most Difficult First Step") - Mother of singer, Natalia Kukulska - She had been married to composer, Jaroslaw Kukulski.

Hugh Farr (Thomas Hubert Farr) - Died 3-17-1980 in Casper, WY, U.S. ( Country ) Born 12-6-1903 in Llano, TX, U.S. - Played fiddle - Worked with Len Nash And His Country Boys Barn Dance, The Haywire Trio, Jack LeFevre And His Texas Outlaws and The Sons Of The Pioneers - Western Music Association Hall Of Fame Inductee and Country Music Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Jon-Jon Poulos (John Poulos) - Died 3-26-1980 - Drug  related heart failure ( Rock ) Born 3-31-1947 in Chicago, Illinois, U.S. - Was the drummer for The Buckinghams (They recorded, "Kind Of A Drag", and "Susan").

Dick Haymes (Richard Benjamin Haymes) - Died 3-28-1980 in Los Angeles, CA, U.S. - Cancer ( Jazz ) Born 9-13-1918 in Buenos Aires, Argentina - Singer - (He did, "Let's Fall In Love" and "More Than You Know ") - Worked with Johnny Johnson, The Katzenjammers, Harry James, Benny Goodman and Tommy Dorsey.

Mantovani (Annunzio Paolo Mantovani) - Died 3-29-1980 in Tunbridge Wells, Kent, England - Born 11-15-1905 in Venice, Italy - Orchestra leader - (He had hits with, "Around The World" and "Red Sails In The Sunset").

Red Sovine (Woodrow Wilson Sovine) - Died 4-4-1980 - Heart attack while driving his van ( Country ) Born 7-17-1918 in Charleston, WV, U.S. - (He did, "Giddyup Go" and "Teddy Bear") - Was a member of The Singing Sailors and The Wondering Boys - Worked with Goldie Hill ("Are You Mine?").

Buster Wilson (Nathaniel Wilson) - Died 4-7-1980 in Las Vegas, NV, U.S. - Shot and dismembered, his body dumped near the Hoover Dam and in a canyon ( Rock ) Singer - Worked with The Coasters.

Morris Stoloff - Died 4-16-1980 ( Conductor ) Born 8-1-1898 (He did, "Moonglow" and "Theme From Picnic") Worked with Sammy Davis Jr., Dinah Shore and Frank Sinatra.

Jane Froman - Died 4-22-1980 in Columbia, Missouri, U.S. - Cardiac arrest - Singer and actress - Born 11-10-1907 in University City, Missouri, U.S. - (She did, "I Believe") - The movie, With A Song In My Heart, which starred Susan Hayward was about Jane Froman with Jane singing the soundtrack.

Rev. Louis Overstreet - Died 4-22-1980 in Phoenix, AZ, U.S. ( Gospel ) Born 4-1-1921 in Lakeland, LA, U.S. - Singer and guitarist - (He recorded, "Two Little Fishes" and "I'm Working On A Building").

Tommy Caldwell - Died 4-28-1980 - Car accident ( Southern Rock ) Born 11-9-1949 - Was a member of The Marshall Tucker Band - He is the brother of the late Toy Caldwell.

Andreas Schell - Died 5-?-1980 - Suicide ( Rock ) - Keyboardist - Worked with La Dusseldorf.

Joe Henderson (aka Mr. Piano) - Died 5-4-1980 - Heart attack ( Pop ) Born 5-2-1920 in Glasgow, Strathclyde, Scotland - Singer and pianist - (He did, "Sing It With Joe" and "Trudie") - Worked with Petula Clark.

Elester Anderson - 5-9-1980 in Tarboro, NC, U.S. ( Country Blues ) Born 10-25-1925 in Conetoe, NC, U.S. - Guitarist.

Ian Curtis (Ian Kevin Curtis) - Died 5-18-1980 in Macclesfield, England - Hung himself ( New Wave ) Born 7-15-1956 in Old Trafford, Manchester, England - Singer and guitarist - Was a member of Warsaw who changed their name to Joy Division (They did, "Love Will Tear Us Apart" and "Disorder").

Lucius Smith - Died 5-18-1980 in Sardis, MS, U.S. - Born 11-91884 in Panola City, MS, U.S. - Played banjo - Was a member of Sid Hemphill's String And Fife And Drum Band (They did, "Skillet Good And Greasy" and "Arkansas Traveler").

Monte Allison - Died 5-29-1980 ( Rock ) Born 9-25-1950 - He was a member of The Nightriders.

Carl Radle - Died 5-30-1980 - Kidney problem ( Rock ) Born 6-18-1942 in Oklahoma City, OK, U.S. - Bass player - Played for Gary Lewis And The Playboys, Delney And Bonnie, Eric Clapton, Derek And The Dominoes and more.

Marvin Norcross (Benjamin Marvin Norcross) - Died 6-?-1980 - Born 3-15-1929 - Worked for Word Music, Canaan Records and Canaanl Music which released recordings by The Happy Goodman Family, The Dixie Echoes and The Florida Boys -  Gospel Music Hall Of Fame Inductee and Southern Gospel Music Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Coy "Hot Shot" Love - Died 6-4-1980 in West Memphis, AR, U.S. - Car accident ( Blues ) Born 9-9-1914 in Clarkendale, AR, U.S. - Played Harmonica - (He did, "Wolf Call Boogie"and "Harmonica Jam").

Herman Autrey - Died 6-14-1980 ( Jazz ) Born 12-4-1904 in Evergreen, Alabama, U.S. - Trumpet player - Worked with Fats Waller and Sammy Price.

Charles Miller - Died 6-14-1980  in Los Angeles, CA, U.S. - Murdered in a street robbery ( Rock ) Born 7-2-1939 in Olathe, KS, U.S. - Singer and saxophonist - Worked with War ( They did, "Low Rider" and The Cisco Kid"), Senor Soul, Dr. John, The Ray Charles Band, The Debonaires, Brenton Wood, Afro Blues Quintet + 1, Al Green and Levon Helm.

Bob Nolan (Clarence Robert Nobles) - Died 6-16-1980 in Studio City, CA, U.S. - Heart attack ( Country Western ) Born 4-13-1908 in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada - Singer, songwriter, and actor - Was a member of The Sons Of The Pioneers (They did, "Cool Water" and "Tumbling Tumbleweeds") - Western Performers Hall Of Fame Inductee,  Western Music Association Hall Of Fame Inductee, Nashville Songwriters Hall Of Fame Inductee and Country Music Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Bert Kaempfert - Died 6-21-1980 in Majorca, Spain ( Easy listening - Jazz ) Born 10-16-1923 in Hamburg, Germany -  Band Leader and producer - (He did, "Wonderland By Night") - Was the 1st to produce The Beatles - Songwriters Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Ted Lundy - Died 6-23-1980 - Suicide  ( Country ) Born 1-26-1937 in Galax, VA, U.S. - Played guitar and banjo - Was a member of The Southern Mountain Boys - Worked with Jimmy Williams And The Shady Valley Boys, Roma Jackson And The Tennessee Pals, Ole Belle And The New River Boys and Alex Campbell.

Culley Holt - Died 6-26-1980 ( Gospel ) Born 7-2-1925 in McAlester, OK, U.S. - Singer - Was a member of The Jordanaires - Gospel Music Hall Of Fame Inductee and Vocal Group Hall Of Fame Foundation Inductee.

Barney Bigard (Albany Leon Bigard) - Died 6-27-1980 in Culver City, CA, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 3-3-1906 in New Orleans, LA, U.S. - Played Sax and clarinet - Was the leader of Barney Bigard And His Jazzopators (They did, "Barney Goin' Easy" and "Honey Hush ") - Worked with King Oliver, Duke Ellington ("Mood Indigo" and "Harlem Air Shaft"), Jelly Roll Morton and Johnny Dodds.

Amos White - Died 7-2-1980 ( Jazz ) Born 11-6-1889 in Kingstree, SC, U.S. - Played cornet - Worked with Lizzie Miles, The New Orleans Creole Orchestra and Fate Marable.

Buster Bennett (James Joseph Bennett) - Died 7-3-1980 in Houston, TX, U.S. ( Blues ) Born 3-19-1914 in Pensacola, FL, U.S. - Saxophonist, pianist, string bassist and singer - (He did, "Got Too Much Insurance" and "Mellow Pot Blues") - Worked with Edward "Duke" Groner, The Yas Yas Girl ("Don't You Make Me High"), Monkey Joe ("Taxes On My Pole" and "Just Out The Big House"), Ramona Hicks ("Tell My Mama on You"), Washboard Sam ("Diggin' My Potatoes" and "Wasn't He Bad"), Jimmie Gordon and Big Bill And The Memphis Five ("W.P.A. Rag").

Fred Cockerham - Died 7-8-1980 ( Folk ) Born 11-3-1905 - Fiddler and banjoist - Worked with George Pegram.

Malcolm Owen - Died 7-14-1980 - Heroin Overdose ( Punk ) Born 1955 - Singer for The Ruts (They did, "I Ain't Sofisticated" and "Babylon's Burning").

Ben Selvin (Benjamin B. Selvin) - The Dean of Recorded Music - Died 7-15-1980 in Manhasset-Nassau, NY, U.S. - Heart attack ( Jazz - Pop - Novelty ) Born 3-5-1898 in Queens, New York, NY, U.S. - (He did, "I'm Forever Blowing Bubbles", "Yes! We Have No Bananas" and "Happy Days Are Here Again") - Led Selvin's Novelty Orchestra ("Dardanella") - Worked with Ethel Waters, Charles Strickland, Kate Smith,  Benny Goodman, Jack Teagarden, Red Nichols, Bunny Berigan and Ruth Etting - It's been  estimated that he recorded over 13,000 song titles.

Keith Godchaux - Died 7-23-1980 in Marin County, California. U.S.- Car crash ( Rock ) Born 7-14-1948 in San Francisco, California, U.S. - Played keyboards for The Grateful Dead - Worked with Dave Mason, The New Riders Of The Purple Sage and Ghosts, which became The Heart Of Gold Band - Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Peter Sellers (Richard Henry Sellers) - Died 7-24-1980 - Heart attack ( Comedian - Actor ) Born 9-8-1925 in Southsea Hamshire, England - (He did, "Any Old Iron" and a remake of The Beatles', "A Hard Day's Night" and even did a duet with Sophia Lauren with, "Goodness Gracious Me") - He did cameos for The Hollies and Steeleye Span - He played Inspector Clouseau in many  Pink Panther movies.

Vladimir Vysotski (Vladimir Semyonovich Vysotsky) - Died 7-25-1980 - Heart attack ( Folk ) Born 1-28-1938 - Singer and poet.

Leo Soileau - Died 8-2-1980 ( Zydeco ) Born 1-19-1904 in Ville Platte, LA, U.S. - Played guitar and fiddle - (He did, "Jolie Blonde" and "Hackberry Hop") - He was the leader of The Three Aces and The four Aces - Worked with The Soileau Couzens, Mayeus Lafleur and Moise Robin.

Pekka Poyry - Died 8-4-1980 - Suicide ( Jazz ) Born 11-30-1939 in Pori, Finland - Played saxophone and flute - Was a member of Tassavalan Presidenti.

George Scott III - Died 8-5-1980 - Drug overdose ( Rock ) Born 1953 - Bass player - Played for John Cale, James Chance, The Contortions, 8 Eyed Spy, The Raybeats and James White And The Blacks .

George Landry (aka Big Chief Jolly) - Died 8-9-1980 in New Orleans, LA, U.S. ( Funk ) Born 4-4-1917 in New Orleans, LA, U.S. - (He wrote, "Big Chief Got A Golden Crown" and "Here Dey Come") - Was a member of The Wild Tchoupitoulas .

Nilda Ramos - Died 8-15-1980 - Near Pto. Ayacucho in the Orinoco River, State Amazonas - Drowned in a boating accident ( Folk ) Member of Madera.

Tibisay Ramos - Died 8-15-1980 - Near Pto. Ayacucho in the Orinoco River, State Amazonas - Drowned in a boating accident ( Folk ) Member of Madera.

Alejandrina Ramos - Died 8-15-1980 - Near Pto. Ayacucho in the Orinoco River, State Amazonas - Drowned in a boating accident ( Folk ) Member of Madera.

Jesus Chu Quintero - Died 8-15-1980 - Near Pto. Ayacucho in the Orinoco River, State Amazonas - Drowned in a boating accident ( Folk ) Member of Madera.

Ricardo Quintero - Died 8-15-1980 - Near Pto. Ayacucho in the Orinoco River, State Amazonas - Drowned in a boating accident ( Folk ) Member of Madera.

Luis Orta -- Died 8-15-1980 - Near Pto. Ayacucho in the Orinoco River, State Amazonas - Drowned in a boating accident ( Folk ) Member of Madera.

Carlos Orta - Died 8-15-1980 - Near Pto. Ayacucho in the Orinoco River, State Amazonas - Drowned in a boating accident ( Folk ) Member of Madera.

Jesus Sanoja - Died 8-15-1980 - Near Pto. Ayacucho in the Orinoco River, State Amazonas - Drowned in a boating accident ( Folk ) Member of Madera.

Héctor Romero - Died 8-15-1980 - Near Pto. Ayacucho in the Orinoco River, State Amazonas - Drowned in a boating accident ( Folk ) Member of Madera.

Lesby Hernandez - Died 8-15-1980 - Near Pto. Ayacucho in the Orinoco River, State Amazonas - Drowned in a boating accident ( Folk ) Member of Madera.

Juan Ramon Castro - Died 8-15-1980 - Near Pto. Ayacucho in the Orinoco River, State Amazonas - Drowned in a boating accident ( Folk ) Member of Madera.

Harold Adamson - Died 8-17-1980 in Beverly Hills, CA, U.S. - Born 12-10-1906 in Greenville, NJ, U.S. - Songwriter - (Co-wrote, "It's A Wonderful World" and "The Woodpecker Song") - Collaborated with Burton Lane, Jimmy McHugh, Mack Gordon, Vincent Youmans, Walter Donaldson, Victor Young and Duke Ellington - Wrote music for Broadway shows and for movies including, "The Incredible Mr. Limpit" and "Around the World In 80 Days" - Wrote the lyrics for the theme for TV's, "I Love Lucy" - Songwriters Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Joe Dassin (Joseph Ira Dassin) - Died 8-21-1980 in Papeete, Tahiti - Heart attack ( Pop - Chanson ) Born 11-05-1938 - Singer and composer - (He did, "Bip Bip", "Katy Cruel", "Le Moustique" and "L'ete Indien") - Worked with Jean-Marie Rivat.

Enriqueta "Queta" Garay - Died 8-21-1980 in Mexico ( Rock ) Singer - (She did, "Las Caricaturas Me Hacen Llorar" and "La Chica Ye Ye").

Jimmy Forrest - Died 8-26-1980 ( Jazz - R&B ) Born 1-24-1920 in St. Louis, MO, U.S. (He did,"Most Much" and "Night Train").

Jannie Pought - Died 9-?-1980 in Jersey City, NJ, U.S. - Stabbed ( R&B ) Born 11-8-1945 in Harlem, NY, U.S. - Singer - Was a member of The Harlem Queens who were renamed The Bobbettes (They did," Mr. Lee" and "I Shot Mr. Lee").

Peanuts Wilson (Johnny Ancil Wilson) - Died 9-?-1980 ( Rockabilly ) Born 11-29-1935 in Riverside, W. Virginia, U.S. - Guitarist and songwriter - (He did, "Cast Iron Arm" and "You`ve Got Love") - Was a member of Teen Kings (They did, "Ooby Dooby") - Worked with Roy Orbison.

Ray Durant (Horatio Durant) - Died 9-2-1980 in New York, NY, U.S. - Born 4-19-1910 in Panama - Played piano and trombone - Worked with The Deep River Boys (They did, "My Castle On The Nile"), Napolean's Savoy Ramblers and Bob Sylvester.

Blind Arvella Gray (James Dixon) - Died 9-7-1980 in Chicago, IL, U.S. ( Blues - Folk - Gospel ) Born 1-28-1906 in Somerville, Texas, U.S. - Sang and played guitar - (He did, "John Henry" and "Have Mercy, Mister Percy").

Bob Linkletter - Died 9-18-1980 - Car accident ( Surf ) Played guitar - Was a member of The Cornells (They did, "Beachbound" and "Stompin' After Five") - Son of Art Linkletter.

Bill Evans - Died 9-15-1980 - Bleeding ulcer ( Jazz ) Born 1939 - Pianist.

Jimmy Bryant (Ivy J. Bryant Jr.) - The Fastest Guitar in the Country - Died 9-22-1980 in Moultrie, Georgia, U.S. - Lung cancer ( Country - Jazz ) Born 3-5-1925 in Moultrie, Georgia, U.S. - Played fiddle and guitar - Worked with Speedy West, Tex Williams ("Wild Card"), Tennessee Ernie Ford ("I'll Never Be Free") and The Monkees ("Sweet Young Thing").

John Bonham (aka Bonzo) (John Henry Bonham) - Died 9-25-1980 in Windsor, England - Asphyxiated on vomit after 40 shots of vodka (Metal - R&B) Born 5-31-1948 in Bromwich, England - Drummer - Was a member of Terry Web And The Spiders and The New Yardbirds who changed their name to Led Zeppelin - Worked with Screaming Lord Sutch, P.J. Proby, Paul McCartney, Roy Wood and Donovan - "Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame Inductee".

Pat Hare (Auburn Hare)- Died 9-26-1980 in St. Paul, MN, U.S. - Died of cancer while in prison for murdering his girlfriend and a policeman ( Blues ) Born 12-20-1930 in Cherry Valley, Arkansas, U.S. - (He recorded, "I'm Gonna Murder My Baby" and "Bonus Pay") - Worked with Howlin' Wolf, Junior Parker and James Cotton.

Lincoln Chase (Lincoln R. Chase) - Died 10-6-1980 ( Rock - Pop ) Born 6-29-1926 - Singer and  songwriter - (He wrote Black Oak Arkansas', "Jim Dandy" and co-wrote, "Name Game") - Worked with Shirley Ellis.

Gabby Pahinui (aka Charles Philip or Pops Pahinui) - Died 10-13-1980 - Born 4-22-1921- Slack key guitarist - (He did, "Hi'ilawe" and "Wai O Ke Aniani") - Worked with Charley 'Tiny' Brown, Andy Cummings, Lena Machado and Ray Kinney.

Bobby Lester (Robert Lester) - Died 10-15-1980 - Lung cancer ( Doo-Wop - R&B ) Born 1-13-1930 in Louisville, KY, U.S. - Sang with The Flamingos and The Moonglows (They did,"Sincerely" and "Ten Commandments Of Love").

Alphe Bergeron - Died 10-15-1980 ( Cajun ) Born 8-8-1912 in Pointe Noire - Played accordion - Was a member of the Veterans Playboys - Father of Cajun musician Shirley Bergeron.

Steve Peregrin Took (Stephen Ross Porter) - Died 10-27-1980 in London, England - Choked to death on a cherry pit ( Folk - Rock ) Born 7-28-1949 in Eltham, England - Percussionist - Was a member of Tyrannosaurus Rex (They did,"Debora" and "King Of The Rumbling Spires") later renamed T. Rex .

Chauncey Morehouse - Died 11-3-1980 ( Jazz ) Born 3-11-1902 - Drummer - Was a member of The Versatile Five and Jean Goldkette's Orchestra and worked with Red Nichols, the Dorsey Brothers and Joe Venuti.

Ronnie Goodson (Ronald Goodson)- Died 11-4-1980 - Brain Tumor - Born 2-2-1945 - Was a member of Ronnie and The Hi-lites (They recorded, "I Wish That We Were Married").

Steve Harvey (Stephen L. Harvey) - Died 11-5-1980 in Kansas City, MO, U.S. - Murdered, beaten with a bat ( Jazz ) Played saxophone - Worked with Count Basie.

Louis Alter - Died 11-5-1980 in New York, NY, U.S. - Born 1902 in Haverhill, MA, U.S. - Pianist and songwrite - (He wrote, "Manhattan Serenade" and "Do You Know What It Means To Miss New Orleans") - Worked with Nora Bayes - Collaborated with Lew Brown, Milton Drake, Stanley Adam, Joe Goodwin, Jo Trent, Edward Heyman, Paul Francis Webster, Eddie Delange, Sidney Mitchell, Harold Adamson, Ray Klages, Bob Russell, Frank Loesser and Oscar Hammerstein II - Songwriters Hall Of Fame Inductee.

O.V. Wright (Overton Vertis Wright) - Died 11-16-1980 in Mobile, AL, U.S. - Drugs or heart failure ( Soul - Gospel ) Born 10-9-1939 in Leno, TN, U.S. - Singer - (He did, "A Nickel And A Nail" and "I'd Rather Be (Blind, Crippled & Crazy") - Worked with The Spirit Of Memphis Quartet and The Sunset Travelers .

Mae West (Mary Jane West) (aka Jane Mast) - Died 11-22-1980 in Los Angeles, CA, U.S. - Natural causes - Born 8-17-1893 in Bushwick, Brooklyn, N.Y. U.S. - Actress and singer - (She did remakes of, "Twist And Shout" and "Shakin All Over") - Appeared in the films, I'm No Angel, Klondike Annie and My Little Chickadee - Daughter of prizefighter, Battlin' Jack West.

Ronnie Osterberg - Died 12-6-1980 ( Rock) Born 1-15-1948 - Drummer - Was a member of Blues Section and Wigwam (They did, "Inspired Machine" and "Pride Of The Biosphere") - Woked with Kim Fowley.

Darby Crash (Jan Paul Beahm) (aka Bobby Pyn) - Died 12-7-1980 - Suicide, heroin overdose ( Punk ) Born 9-26-1959 - Was a member of The Germs (They recorded, "Suicide Madness" and "Sexboy") - Worked with Pat Smear and Exene Cervenka.

John Lennon (Born, John Winston Lennon) (Legally changed to John Ono Lennon in 1969) - Died 12-8-1980 in New York, NY, U.S. - Shot by a deranged fan ( Rock - Pop ) Born 10-9-1940 in Liverpool, England - Singer, guitarist, pianist and songwriter - (He recorded, "Borrowed Time" and "Imagine") Was a member of The Quarrymen and The Beatles (They did, "A Day In The Life") and The Plastic Ono Band (They recorded, "Give Peace A Chance") - Worked with David Peel And The Lower East Side, Elton John, Harry Nillsson and Frank Zappa - Married to Yoko Ono, father of musicians Sean and Julian Lennon - Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame Inductee and Songwriters Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Jack Stapp - Died 12-20-1980 - Born 12-8-1912 in Nashville, TN, U.S. - Founder of Tree Publishing Company - Country Music Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Alec Wilder - Died 12-24-1980 ( Jazz ) Born 2-17-1907 in Rochester, NY, U.S. - Songwriter - (He wrote, "Kalamazoo To Timbuktu" and "J.P. Dooley") - Worked with Loonis McGlohon.

Louis Neefs (Ludwig Neefs) (aka Lode Celis and Ludwig Konner) - Died 12-25-1989 - Car crash which also killed his wife ( Pop ) Born 1937 -  Singer - (He did, "Jennifer Jennings" and "Laat ons een bloem").

Willie James Lyons - Died 12-26-1980 in Chicago, IL, U.S. ( Blues ) Born 12-5-1938 in Alabama, U.S. - Played guitar - Worked with Easy Baby, Bobby Rush, Willie Kent ("Chili con Came" and "Nineteen Years Old"), Jimmy Dawkins, Robert Plunkett, Lefty Dizz, Big Moose, Luther "Guitar Junior" Johnson and Big Mojo Elem.

Walter "Popee" Lastie - Died 12-28-1980 - Heart attack ( Jazz ) Born 1938 - Drummer - He died while playing, "When The Saints Go Marching In".

Tim Hardin ( Eugene Hardin )- Died 12-29-1980 in Los Angeles, CA, U.S. - Heroin overdose ( Folk ) Born 12-23-1941 in Eugene, Oregon, U.S. - Singer - (Wrote, "If I Were A Carpenter" and "Reason to Believe") - Worked with John Sebastian and Gary Burton.

Robert Pete Williams - Died 12-31-1980 in Rosedale, LA, U.S. ( Blues ) Born 3-14-1914 in Zachary, Louisiana, U.S. - Singer and guitarist - (He did, "Pardon Denied Again" and "Prisoner's Talking Blues") - Louisiana Blues Hall Of Fame Inductee.

1981

Serif Yuzbasioglu - Died 1981 ( Pop ) Musician - He was married to singer, Senay Yuzbasioglu.

Foster Orr - Died 1981 in Novato, CA, U.S. - Shot himself ( Rock ) Keyboardist - Worked with The Novato Frank Band.

Tracy Webber - Died 1981 in Harlem - She was killed accidentally when someone was shooting at her brother ( Disco ) Singer - (She did, "Sure Shot").

Gertrude "Mother" Ward (Gertrude Mae Murphy) - Died 1981 ( Gospel ) Born 3-1-1901 - Singer - Was a member of The Clara Ward Singers - Mother of singer, Clara Ward.

Tommy Moore (Thomas Moore) - Died 1981 - Stroke ( Rock ) Born 1924 in Liverpool, Lancashire, England - He was a tour dummer for The Silver Beetles who were backing up Johnny Gentle - Worked with Stu Sutcliffe, John Lennon, Paul McCartney and George Harrison.

Wasyl Kohut - Died 1981 ( Rock ) Violinist - Was a member of CANO (They did, "Viens nous voir" and "Mon pays").

Margarita Lecuona - Died 1981 ( Songwriter ) Born 1910 in Havana, Cuba - (She wrote, "Babalu" popularized by Dezi Arnez and "Taboo" ("Tabu")) - Niece of composer Ernesto Lecuona and mother of singer and songwriter, Joseph Lecuona.

Wallace "Cheese" Read - Died 1981 ( Cajun ) Born 1914 in Eunice, LA, U.S. - Played fiddle -  (He did, "Bayou Pom Pom" and "Les Veuves De La Coulee") - Worked with Isaac Soileau and Marc Savoy.

Steven James Turner (aka Judd) - Died 1981 - Heroin overdose ( Industrial ) Bassist - Was a member of Clock DVA (They did, "Synchromesh" and "Alien Tapes").

Barry Kramer - Died 1-?-1981 - Publisher for Creem, America's Only Rock 'n' Roll Magazine.

David Lynch - Died 1-2-1981 - Cancer ( Rock ) Born 7-3-1929 in St. Louis, Missouri, U.S. - Was a tenor for The Platters (They did, "Only You" and "The Great Pretender") - Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Felton Jarvis (Charles Felton Jarvis)- Died 1-3-1981 - Stroke - Born 11-16-1934 - Produced Elvis Presley, Willie Nelson, Bobby Bare, Skeeter Davis, Tommy Roe and Jack Scott.

Bobby Fields - Died 1-6-1981 in Chicago, IL, U.S. - Cancer ( Blues - Jazz ) Born 9-11-1928 in Chicago, IL, U.S. - Saxophonist - Worked with Sun Ra, Otis Spann, Lonnie Taylor and Earl Hooker.

Chink Martin (Martin Abraham) - Died 1-7-1981 ( Jazz ) Born 6-10-1886 in New Orleans, LA, U.S. - Played string bass and tuba - Worked with The Reliance Brass Band and The New Orleans Rhythm Kings.

Russell Procope - Died 1-21-1981 ( Jazz ) Born 8-11-1908 in New York, NY, U.S. - Played Sax and Clarinet - Worked with Jelly Roll Morton, Chick Webb, Tiny Bradshaw, Duke Ellington, Fletcher Henderson and Brooks Kerr.

Blind James Campbell - Died 1-22-1981 in Nashville, Tennessee, U.S. ( Blues ) Born 9-17-1906 in Nashville, Tennessee, U.S. - Singer and guitarist - Led The Nashville Street Band (They did, "Have I Stayed Away Too Long?" and "This Little Light Of Mine").

Carl Feaster - Died 1-23-1981 - Cancer ( Doo-Wop ) Born 9-24-1930 - Was a member of The Cords (They sang, "Sh-Boom").

Eddie Alkire (Elbert H. Alkire) - Died 1-25-1981 - Born 12-6-1907 in Hacker Valley, WV, U.S. - Music publisher and composer - Music director for The Oahu Serenaders - He create the first 10 string electric Hawaiian guitar -  Steel Guitar Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Rev. Julius Cheeks - Died 1-27-1981 in Miami, FL, U.S. ( Gospel ) Born 8-7-1929 in Spartanburg, SC, U.S. - Worked with The Nightingales (They did, "Somewhere To Lay My Head" and "The Last Mile Of The Way"), The Sensational Nightingales, The Sensational Knights and The Soul Stirrers.

Remo Biondi - Died 1-28-1981 in Chicago, IL, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 7-5-1905 in Cicero, Il, U.S. - Guitarist - Worked with Anita O'Day, Gene Krupa and Louis Armstrong.

Scotty Wiseman (Scott Greene Wiseman) (aka Skyland Scotty) - Died 1-31-1981 in Gainesville, FL, U.S. ( Country ) Born 11-8-1909 in Ingalls, NC, U.S. - Played banjo and guitar and was a singer and songwriter - Was half of the duo, Lulu Belle And Scotty (The Sweethearts Of Country Music) with his wife Lulu (They did, "Have I Told You Lately That I Love You" and "Remember Me") - Nashville Songwriters Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Cozy Cole - Died 1-31-1981 ( Jazz - Rock ) Born 10-17-1909 in East Orange, New Jersey, U.S. - Drummer for The Cozy Cole Combo (They recorded, "Topsy") - Worked with Jelly Roll Morton ("Load Of Cole"), Stuff Smith, Milt Hinton and Cab Calloway's Orchestra ("Paradiddle" and "Crescendo In Drums").

Elmo Fagg (Juan Elmo Fagg) - Died 2-?-1981 in Rutherford, NC, U.S. - Born 6-28-1919 in Alcoa, TN, U.S. - Singer - Was a member of The Blue Ridge Quartet - Southern Gospel Music Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Joe Carroll (Joseph Paul Taylor) (aka Bebop) - Died 2-1-1981 in New York, NY, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 11-25-1919 in Philadelphia, PA, U.S. - Singer - (He did, "Got A Penny, Benny?" and "The Land Of Ooh Bla Dee").

Seppo Keurulainen - Died 2-4-1981 ( Beat - Rock ) Born 9-16-1945 - Guitarist - Worked with The Jormas, Jim & The Beatmakers, The Roosters, The Boys, The Islanders, Frankies and Pepe & The Paradise.

Hugo Montenegro - Died 2-6-1981 - Emphysema ( Pop - Soundtracks ) Born 9-2-1925 in New York City, New York, U.S. - (He did, "The Good, The Bad & The Ugly" and "Hang 'Em High").

Bill Haley ( William John Clifton Haley Jr. ) - Died 2-9-1981 - Heart attack ( Rock & Roll ) Born 7-6-1925 in Highland Park, Detroit, Michigan, U.S. - Was the leader of Bill Haley and The Comets (They did, "Rock Around The Clock") -  Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Inductee.

Mike Bloomfield (Michael Bloomfield) - Died 2-15-1981 - Drug overdose ( Blues - R&B ) Born 7-28-1943 in Chicago, Illinois, U.S. - Was a guitarist for The Paul Butterfield Blues Band and Electric Flag.

Frank Froeba (aka Frank Froba) - Died 2-16 or 18-1981 in Miami, FL, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 8-?-1907 in New Orleans, LA, U.S. - Pianist - Worked with Johnny Wiggs, Johnny de Droit, John Tobin, Jack Purvis, Benny Goodman, Bunny Berigan, Lil Armstrong and Jack Bland.

Brother Cornbread (Joseph Thomas) - Died 2-18-1981 ( Jazz ) Born 12-3-1902 in New Orleans, LA, U.S. - Played clarinet and was a bandleader - Worked with Papa Celestin and Joe Harris.

Ty Hunter (Tyrone Hunter)- Died 2-24-1981 - Cancer ( Rock ) Born 7-14-1940 - Was a member of The (Detroit) Romeos (They did, "Let's Be Partners" and "Gone Gone Get Away"), The Voice Masters who changed their name to The Originals and The Glass House.

Lee Allen (William Allen) - Died 2-24-1981 in Lebanon, TN, U.S. ( Country ) Born 6-1-1906 in Sewanee, TN, U.S. - Was one of The Allen Brothers (They did, "Skippin' And Flyin'" and "Jake Walk Blues").

Matty Malneck - Died 2-25-1981 ( Swing ) Born 12-9-1903 - Violinist and songwriter (He wrote,"I'll Never Be The Same" and "I'm Through With Love") Worked with Paul Whiteman, Frank Signorelli, Frankie Trumbauer, Mildred Bailey and Liz Tilton.

J.C. Johnson - Died 2-27-1981 in New York, NY, U.S. ( Blues ) Born 9-14-1896 in Chicago, IL, U.S. - Played piano - Worked with Lonnie Johnson and Helen Humes.

Raymond Pinder - Died 3-1-1981 in Nassau, Bahamas - Born 10-10-1907 in Nassau, Bahamas - Singer - Worked with his wife, Edith Pinder and with Joseph Spence (They did, "We'll Understand It Better By And By" and "Great Dream From Heaven").

Yip Harburg (Edgar Yipsel Harburg) - Died 3-5-1981 in Los Angeles, CA, U.S. - Born 4-8-1896 in New York, NY, U.S. - Lyricist  - (Co-wrote, "Over The Rainbow" and "Brother, Can You Spare A Dime?") -  He songs have been recorded by Judy Garland, The Demensions, Billy Thorpe, Danielle Hope and Eva Cassidy - Songwriters Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Red Saunders - Died 3-5-1981 in Chicago, IL, U.S. ( Blues ) Born 3-2-1912 in Memphis, TN, U.S. - Drummer - Was the leader of Red Saunders & His Orchestra.

Little Hat Jones (George Jones) - Died 3-7-1981 in Naples, TX, U.S. ( Blues ) Born 10-5-1899 in Bowie County, TX, U.S. - (He did, "New Two Sixteen Blues" and "Two String Blues") - Worked with Texas Alexander.

Wayne Spardello (Wayne R. Spardello) - Died 3-8-1981 in Foxboro, MA, U.S. - Car accident ( Rock ) He was 23 years old - Born in Providence, RI, U.S. - Singer - Was a member of Lady Luck.

Tampa Red (Born Hudson Woodbridge or Whittaker) - The Guitar Wizard - Died 3-19-1981 in Chicago, IL, U.S. - Natural causes ( Blues ) Born 1-8-1903 in Smithville, Georgia, U.S - Singer, guitarist and pianist - (He did,"Turpentine Blues") - Was 1/2 of The Hokum Boys (They did,"It's Tight Like That") - Worked with Georgia Tom Dorsey - Blues Foundation Hall Of Fame Inductee.

King Pleasure (Clarence Beeks) - Died 3-21-1981 in Los Angeles, CA, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 3-24-1922 in Oakdale, Tennessee, U.S. - Singer - (He did, "Moody's Mood For Love") - Worked with Betty Carter ("Red Top").

Edith Wilson (Edith Goodall) - Died 3-30-1981 ( Blues ) Born 9-2-1896 in Louisville, Kentucky, U.S.  (She recorded, "Nervous Blues" and "Vampin' Liza Jane", backed by Johnny Dunn And The Original Jazz Hounds) - She also was the voice of Aunt Jemima for the Quaker Oats Company.

Bob "The Bear" Hite - Died 4-5-1981 - Heart attack ( Rock ) Born 2-26-1945 in Torrance, California, U.S. - Played harmonica and sang for Canned Heat (They recorded, "On The Road Again" and "Let's Work Together").

Kit Lambert (Christopher Sebastian Lambert) - Died 4-7-1981 in London, England - A brain hemorrhage after a fall down stairs - Born 5-11-1935 in London, England -  Manager and producer - Managed The Who.

Austin Pitre - Died 4-8-1981 in Elton, LA, U.S. ( Cajun ) Born 2-23-1918 in Ville Platte, LA, U.S. - Sang and played the fiddle and accordion - Worked with The Evangeline Playboys (They did, "Les Flammes D'enfer" and "Opelousas Waltz") - Cajun Music Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Ruggero Cini - Died 4-8-1981 in Rome, Italy - Born 11-30-1933 in Scandicci, Florence, Italy - Composer, arranger and conductor - Worked with Luigi Tenco, Patty Pravo, Claudio Baglioni and Renato Zero.

Jiri Schelinger - Died 4-13-1981 in Bratislava, Czechoslovakia - Drowned in Danube ( Pop - Rock ) Born 3-6-1951 in Prague, Czechoslovakia - He sang with Faraon (They did, "Holubi Dum" and "Draty Pletaci") and Skupina F. R. Cecha (They did, "Jahody Mrazeny" and "Delam Hu!").

Polo Barnes (Paul Barnes) - Died 4-13-1981 ( Jazz ) Born 11-22-1901 in New Orleans, LA, U.S. - Played reeds - Worked with Papa Celestin, The Original Tuxedo Orchestra, Kid Howard, King Oliver and Jelly Roll Morton.

Arelean Brown - Died 4-27-1981 in Chicago, IL, U.S. ( Blues ) Born 6-10-1924 in Tchula, MS, U.S. - Singer - (She did, "Chicken Man" and "I Am A Streaker") - Worked with Little Mack Simmons, Lonnie Brooks, Lee "Shot" Williams and Scotty & The Rib Tips - Cousin of Lester Davenport and Sister of guitarists, George Brown and King Edward Brown.

Steve Currie - Died 4-28-1981 in Val Da Parra, Portugal - Car crash ( Folk - Rock ) Born 5-20-1947 in Grimsby, England - Was the bass player for T. Rex (They did, "Born To Boogie" and "Get It On") - Worked with Chris Spedding.

Cat Anderson (William Alonzo Anderson) - Died 4-29-1981 in Norwalk, CA, U.S. - Brain tumor ( Jazz ) Born 9-12-1916 in Greenville, SC, U.S. - Trumpeter - Worked with The Carolina Cotton Pickers, Hartley Toots, Claude Hopkins, Sabby Lewis, Lucky Millinder, Erskine Hawkins, Lionel Hampton and Duke Ellington.

Bob Marley ( Robert Nesta Marley ) (aka Tuff Gong and Bobby Martell) - Died 5-11-1981 in Miami, FL, U.S. - Brain Cancer ( Reggae ) Born 2-6-1945 in Nine Miles, Jamaica - Singer, songwriter and guitarist - Led Bob Marley And The Wailers (They did, "No Woman No Cry" and "Buffalo Soldier") - Was a member of The Teenagers, The Wailing Rudeboys, and The Wailing Wailers -  Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Nathan Abshire - Died 5-13-1981 ( Cajun )  Born 6-27-1913 in Gueydan, Louisiana, U.S. - Accordianist - Was a member of Happy Fats And The Rainbow Ramblers (They did, "Pine Grove Blues") and Nathan Abshire And The Pinegrove Boys.

Joan Weber - Died 5-13-1981 in Ancora, NJ, U.S. - Heart failure ( Pop ) Born 12-12-1935 in Paullsboro, NJ, U.S. - Singer - (She did, "Let Me Go Lover").

Ernie Freeman - Died 5-15-1981 in Beverly Hills, CA, U.S. - Heart attack ( Rock ) Born 8-16-1922 in Cleveland, OH, U.S. - Pianist and arranger - (He did, "Raunchy", "Jivin' Around" and "Lost Dreams") - He also recorded as B.Bumble & the Stingers ("Bumble Boogie" and "Nut Rocker") - Worked with Duane Eddy, Johnny Burnette, The Crickets, Bobby Vee, Dean Martin, Frank Sinatra, Simon And Garfunkel and Buddy Knox.

Alan Gowen - Died 5-17-1981 - Leukemia ( Rock ) Born 8-19-1947 in North Hampstead - Keyboardist - Was a member of Gilgamesh and  National Health - Worked with White Mule, Assegai, Sunship, Soft Heap, Bill Bruford, Dave Stewart and others.

Roy Brown (Roy James Brown)- Died 5-25-1981 - Heart attack ( Blues Shouter ) Born 9-10-1925 in New Orleans, Louisiana, U.S. - (Wrote and recorded, "Let The Four Winds Blow", "Good Rockin' Tonight" and"Deep Down In My Soul").

Mary Lou Williams (Born Mary Elfrieda Scruggs then renamed Mary Lou Burley) - Died 5-28-1981 - Cancer ( Jazz ) Born 5-8-1910 in Atlanta, GA, U.S. - Pianist - (She wrote, "Roll 'Em" and "What's Your Story Morning Glory") - Worked with Andy Kirk, Benny Goodman, Earl Hines and Tommy Dorsey - Was married to saxophonist John Williams and  trumpeter Harold "Shorty" Baker.

Julius McMichael (aka Mack Starr) - Died 6-?-1981 - Motorcycle accident ( Doo-Wop ) Born 11-25-1935 - Was a member of The Paragons ( They did, "Let's Start All Over Again" and "Twilight"), The Mellows (They did, "Drifting Apart") and The Olympics (They did, "Secret Agents" and "Mine Exclusively").

Chuck Wagon (Bob Davis) (Robert Elliott Davis) - Died 6-?-1981 - Shot himself ( Punk Rock ) He was 24 years old - Played guitar, sax and keyboards - Worked with Karlos Kabellero and The Dickies (They did, "You Drive Me Ape (You Big Gorilla)" and "Hideous").

Rino Gaetano (aka Kammamuri) (Salvatore Antonio Gaetano) - Died 6-2-1981 in Italy - Car accident ( Rock - Pop ) Born 10-29-1950 Crotone, Calabria, Italy - Singer - (He did, "Cogli la mia rosa d'amore" and "Nel letto di Lucia").

Joe Santollo - Died 6-4-1981 - Heart attack ( Rock - Doo-Wop ) Born 7-23-1943 - Was a member of The Duprees (They sang, "You belong To Me" and "Why Don't You Believe Me").

Tagg Lambert (Eugene Lambert) - Died 6-9-1981 in Turkey, TX, U.S. - Shot himself ( Country ) Born 1-29-1943 in Eckman, WV, U.S. - Guitarist and singer - Worked with Bob Wills And His Texas Playboys (They did, "Born To Love You").

Richard Kubernat - Died 6-16-1981 in Brno, Czechoslovakia ( Jazz ) Born 7-22-1924 in Breclav, Czechoslovakia - Trumpet player and singer for Orchestr Karla Vlacha (They did, "Montiho Cardas" and "La Palome") and TOCR (They did, "Duet" and "Vykrik").

Booker T. Glass (Henry Glass) - Died 6-19-1981 ( Jazz ) Born 8-10-1888 in New Orleans, LA, U.S. - Drummer - Worked with Wooden Joe Nicholas - Father of drummer Nowell Papa Glass.

Pee Wee Erwin (George F. Erwin) - Died 6-20-1981 ( Swing ) Born 5-30-1913 in Falls City, NE, U.S. - Trumpet player (He did,""I Want To Be Happy" and "Oh Baby") Worked with Joe Haymes, Isham Jones, Ray Noble, Benny Goodman and Tommy Dorsey.

Arkie The Arkansas Woodchopper (Luther William Ossenbrink) - Died 6-23-1981 ( Country ) Born 9-21-1915 in Knobnoster, MO, U.S.

Joe Dean (aka Joe Dean from Bowling Green) - Died 6-24-1981 in St. Louis, MO, U.S. ( Blues ) Born 4-25-1908 in St. Louis, MO, U.S. - Played piano and sang - (He did, "I'm So Glad I'm Twenty-One Years Old Today" and "Mexico Bound Blues").

Papa Henry Brown - Died 6-28-1981  ( Blues ) Born 7-25-1908 in Troy, Tennessee, U.S. (He did, "Henry Brown Blues" and "My Blues Is In The Bottle").

Rushton Moreve (John Russell Morgan) - Died 7-1-1981 in Sunny Valley, California, U.S. - Car accident ( Rock ) Born 1948 in Los Angeles, CA, U.S. - Was the bassist for Steppenwolf  (They recorded, "Born To Be Wild" and "Magic Carpet Ride").

Hubert Johnson - Died 7-11-1981 - Shot himself ( Rock ) Born 1-14-1941 - Singer for The Contours (They recorded, "Do You Love Me (Now That I Can Dance)" and "Shake Sherry").

Harry Chapin(Harry Forster Chapin)- Died 7-16-1981 in Jericho, NY, U.S. - Traffic accident ( Rock - Pop ) Born 12-7-1942 in Greenwich Village, NY, U.S. - Singer, songwriter and guitarist - (He did, "Cat's In The Cradle" and "Taxi").

Tom Edwards - Died 7-24-1981 ( DJ ) Born 1923 (He recorded the parodies, "What Is A Teenage Boy?" and "What Is A Teenage Girl?").

Alan Malarowitz (Alan Henry Malarowitz) - Died 8-2-1981 in San Bernardino, CA, U.S. - Car crash ( Rock ) Born 3-20-1950 in Los Angeles, CA, U.S. - Drummer -  Was a member of Sweetwater (They did, "Through An Old Storybook" and "For Pete's Sake") - Sweetwater was the first group on stage at the original Woodstock music festival.

Mario Abbate (Salvatore Abbate) - Died 8-6-1981 in Naples, Italy ( Pop - Neapolitan Folk ) Born 8-10-1927 in Naples, Italy - Singer and actor - (He did, "Vorrei fermare il tempo" e "Mare d'estate").

Henrietta Waddy - Died 8-10-1981 in Philadelphia, PA, U.S. ( Gospel ) Born 6-2-1900 in South Carolina, U.S. - Singer - Worked with The Clara Ward Singers.

John Gaisah (aka Sabah's Tom Jones) - Died 8-11-1981 - Car accident - He was 26 years old - Singer - (He did, " Miniagal Oh Sinsing" (Like A Ring) and "Taragang Rasuk" (Red Dress)).

Norman Phelps - Died 8-24-1981 ( Country ) Played bass and guitar and sang - Was one of The Phelps Brothers and led Norman Phelps And The Virginia Rounders - Western Swing Society Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Lee Hays - Died 8-26-1981 - Heart attack ( Folk ) Born 3-14-1914 in Little Rock, Arkansas, U.S. - Was a member of The Weavers ( They did, "Tzena Tzena Tzena" and the original, "If I Had A Hammer").

Ronnie Self (aka Mr. Frantic) - Died 8-28-1981 ( Rockabilly - Rock N' Roll ) Born 7-5-1938 in Tin Town, MO, U.S. (He did,"Bop A Lena", "Bless My Broken Heart" and wrote Brenda Lee's,"I'm Sorry").

Guy Stevens - Died 8-28-1981 in South London, England - Heart attack ( Producer ) Born 4-6-1943 in South London, England - He produced The Clash, Free, Mott The Hoople, Haphash & The Coloured Coat and Traffic - He was also an A-&-R man for Island Records.

Mary Jane DeZurik - Died 9-3-1981 - Country - Born 2-1-1917 near Royalton, Minnesota, U.S. - Singer, yodeler and guitarist - She was half of the duo The DeZurik Sisters (They did, "Arizona Yodeler" and "I Left Her Standing There") who were also known as The Cackle Sisters - She had been married to accordionist, Augie Klein.

Helen Humes - Died 9-9-1981 in Santa Monica, CA, U.S. - Cancer ( Jazz - Blues ) Born 6-23-1913  in Louisville, KY, U.S. - Singer (She did,"Be-ba-ba-le-ba" and "Million Dollar Secret").

Sandra Tilley-Miese - Died 9-9-1981 in Clark County, Las Vegas, Nevada, U.S. - Brain aneurysm ( R&B - Soul ) Born 1943 - Singer - Was a member of The Velvelettes and Martha Reeves And The Vandellas (They did, "I Can't Dance To That Music You're Playin'" and "(We've Got) Honey Love").

Furry Lewis (Walter E. Lewis) - Died 9-14-1981 in Memphis, TN, U.S. - Heart failure due to pneumonia ( Blues ) Born 3-6-1893 in Greenwood, Mississippi, U.S. - Singer, songwriter and guitarist - (He did, "A Chicken Ain't Nothin' But A Bird" and "East St. Louis") - Worked with The W.C. Handy Band.

Blind Johnny Brown - Died 9-14-1981 in St. Petersburg, FL, U.S. ( Blues - Gospel ) Born 10-1-1910 in Montgomery, AL, U.S. - Played hamonica and guitar and sang - (He did, "That's Alright" and "Lordy-Lord My Gal Gonna Leave Me") - Worked with Jimmy Reed and Sonny Terry.

Harry Warren (Salvatore Anthony Guaragna) - Died 9-22-1981 ( Composer ) Born 1893 in Brooklyn, NY, U.S. (He wrote,"You Must Have Been A Beautiful Baby" and "I Only Have Eyes for You") Worked with Al Dubin and Mack Gordon - He wrote over 400 songs for almost 90 different movies - Songwriter's Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Hazel Scott (Hazel Dorothy Scott) - Died 10-2-1981 in New York, NY, U.S. - Cancer ( Classical - Jazz ) Born 6-11-1920 in Port of Spain, Trinidad, Tobago - Pianist and singer - (She did, "Tico Tico") - Led 14 Men And A Girl - Worked with The American Creolians, Charles Mingus and Max Roach.

Luis Jaime "Guero" Gonzalez - Died 10-3-1981 in Mexico - Car accident ( Rock ) Born 1946 in Guadalupe, Jalisco, Mexico - Keyboardist - Was a member of Los Rockin Devil's (They did, "Solo Un Amor" and "Gran Muchacho").

Oscar Moore (Oscar Frederic Moore) - Died 10-8-1981 in Los Angeles, CA, U.S. - Heart attack ( Jazz ) Born 12-25-1912 in Austin, TX, U.S. - Guitarist - Was a member of The Nat King Cole Trio - Worked with The Three Blazers, Lionel Hampton, Lester Young, Art Tatum, and The Capitol Jazzmen - Brother of guitarist Johnny Moore.

Jud Strunk (Justin Strunk Jr.)- Died 10-15-1981 - A small plane he was flying crashed ( Country ) Born 6-11-1936 in Jamestown, NY, U.S. (He did,"Daisy A Day") He was the leader of Coplin Kitchen.

Louis Metcalf - Died 10-28-1981 ( Jazz ) Born 2-28-1905 in Webster Groves, MO, U.S. - Trumpet player - Worked with Duke Ellington, Jelly Roll Morton, King Oliver, Sidney Bechet, Sam Wooding, Elmer Snowden and Charlie Johnson.

Bardu Ali - Died 10-29-1981 ( Jazz ) Born 1910 - Guitarist, vocalist and big band leader - Worked with Johnny Otis and Chick Webb.

Joe Pat (Joe Paterek) - Died 11-?-1981 ( Polka ) Born 5-21-1919 in Chicago, IL, U.S. - Played accordion and was a bandleader - International Polka Music Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Steve Nelson (Steve Edward Nelson) - Died 11-13-1981 - Born 11-24-1907 in New York, NY, U.S. - Songwriter - (He co-wrote, "Frosty The Snowman" and "Peter Cottontail") - Collaborated with Bob Hilliard, Johnny Burke, Benny Davis, Jack Rollins and Charlie Tobias - The Nashville Songwriters' Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Bob Eberly (Robert Eberle) - Died 11-17-1981 in Glen Burnie, MD, U.S. ( Big Band ) Born 7-24-1916 in Mechanicville, NY, U.S. - Singer - Worked with Jimmy Dorsey's band ("Green Eyes") - Brother of singer, Ray Eberle.

Doug Roberts - Died 11-18-1981 ( Rock ) Born 6-15-1941 - Was a drummer for The Fireballs (They did, "Bottle Of Wine" and "Sugar Shack").

Hi-Pockets Duncan (William Duncan) - Died 12-?-1981 - Born 6-8-1914 in Haskell County, TX, U.S. - DJ - He started the first all country station in Lubbock,TX - He signed The Buddy (Holly) & Bob Duo to a contract and gave them their first radio program; he later tore up their contract because he didn't want to stand in their way.

Taft Jordan (James Jordan) - Died 12-1-1981 in New York, NY, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 2-15-1915 in Florence, SC, U.S. - Trumpet player - Worked with The Washboard Rhythm Kings, Chick Webb, Ella Fitzgerald, Lucille Dixon, Duke Ellington and Benny Goodman.

Herb Holmes - Died 12-1-1981 ( Jazz ) Born 9-27-1912 in Yazoo City, Miss., U.S. - Was the leader of The Herbie Holmes Orchestra - Worked with Fay Anderson and his wife Nancy Hutson - "Mississippi Jazz Alumni Hall Of Fame Inductee".

Michael Dempsy - Died 12-6-1981 - Fell off a chair and down a flight of stairs while changing a lightbulb - Publisher and  manager - Was a Manager for The Adverts.

Big Walter Horton (aka Shakey Horton, Tangle Eye and Mumbles) - Died 12-8-1981  ( Blues ) Born 4-6-1917 in Horn Lake, Mississippi, U.S. (He did, "Everybody's Fishin'" ) Worked with Muddy Waters, Memphis Minnie,Big Joe Williams and Willie Dixion.

Sonny Til ( Earlington Carl Tilghman) - Died 12-9-1981 - Heart attack ( R&B ) Born 8-18-1928 in Baltimore, Maryland, U.S. - Singer - Was a member of The Vibranaires and The Orioles (They recorded, "Crying In The Chapel" and "Baby Please Don't Go") - Rock And Roll Hall Of Inductee.

Dewey "Pigmeat" Markham - Died 12-13-1981 ( Novelty ) Born 1906 - (Did the 2nd version of, "Here Comes The Judge").

Sam Jones (Samuel Jones) - Died 12-15-1981 in New York, NY, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 11-12-1924 in Jacksonville, FL, U.S. - Bassist and played cello (He wrote,"Unit 7" and "Del Sasser") Worked with Tiny Bradshaw, Duke Ellington, Cannonball Adderly, Oscar Peterson, Cedar Walton, Illinois Jaquet and Thelonious Monk.

Hoagy Carmichael (Howard Hoagland Carmichael) - Died 12-27-1981 in Rancho Mirage, CA, U.S. - Heart attack ( Pop - Jazz ) Born 11-22-1899 in Bloomington, IN, U.S. - Composer, pianist, singer - (He wrote, "Stardust", "Georgia on My Mind" and "Up the Lazy River") - Songwriters Hall Of Fame Inductee and Nashville Songwriters Hall Of Fame Inductee.

1982

Melvin Webb (aka Big Mel) - Died 1982 - Complications from diabetes ( R&B ) Drummer - Was a member of The Sinceres (They did, "Don't Waste MyTime") who later changed their name to Bloodstone (They did, "Natural High" and "Never Let You Go") - Worked with James Brown, Johnny Nash and Marvin Gaye.

Pat Watters - Died 1982 ( Polka ) Born 1902 in Dallas County, TX, U.S. - Founder of Music And Dance News magazine and owner of Watters Music Center selling concertinas and Wurlitzer piano accordions - International Polka Music Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Roger Law - Died 1982 - Car accident ( Rock ) Was a guitarist for Mother Tucker's Yellow Duck (They did, "I" and "One Ring Jane").

Murray McEachern - Died 1982 ( Jazz ) Played trombone, trumpet, tuba and bass- Worked with Benny Goodman, The Casa Loma Orchestra, Duke Ellington, Paul Whiteman, Harry James, Bob Crosby and The Tommy Dorsey Orchestra.

Akh Tal Ebah - Died 1982 - Suicide ( Jazz ) Played trumpet and sang - Worked with Sun Ra ("Space Is The Place").

James Galuzzi - Died 1982? - Car crash, racing a car on a track ( Rock ) Drummer - Was a member of Boomerang (They did, "Juke It" and "The Peddler").

Bill Hodgson - Died 1982 ( Blues ) Born 1940? - Singer and guitarist - Was a member of Shadowfax - Worked with David Opatik (They did, "Ain't No Grave Gonna Hold My Body Down" and "Roll 'Em Easy").

Vincent Monroe (aka Polka Dot Slim and Mr. Calhoun) - Died 1982 ( Blues ) Born 12-9-1919 in Woodsville, MS, U.S. (He did, "Ain't Broke, Ain't Hungry" and "It's A Thing You Gotta Face") Worked with Little Freddie King.

Shorty Medlocke - Died 1982 ( Rock ) Recorded with Blackfoot - Grandfather of Ricky Medlocke.

Tommy Bryant - Died 1982 ( R&B ) Born 5-21-1930 - Worked with The Ink Spots.

Dave Waller - Died 1982 - Heroin overdose ( New Wave ) (Co-wrote,"This Is The Modern World").

Reebop Kwaku Baah - Died 1982 ( Rock ) Born 1944 in Lagos, Nigeria - Percussionist (He did, "Bombodown" and "Hotline Brealine Boogie") Worked with Traffic, Jim Capaldi, Can and Eric Clapton.

Doug Yankus - Died 1982 ( Rock ) Songwriter and guitarist - Was a member of The Private Property Of Digil and Soup (They did, "I'm Just Not The Man To Be Tied" and "Veronica") - Worked with John Hiatt and White Duck.

Lynne Taylor - Died 1982 ( Folk - Pop ) Born 1928 - Singer for The Roof Top Singers (They sang," Walk Right In" and "Tom Cat").

Juan Torra - Died 1982 - Pianist - Worked with Victoria de los Angeles - He was married to pianist, Alicia de Larrocha.

Jeanette Jacobs (Jeanette Jacobs-Wood) - Died 1-1-1982 ( Rock - Pop ) Born 1950 - Singer - Was a member of The Cake (They did, " Under The Tree Of Love And Laughter" and " Sadie") - Worked with Ginger Baker’s Airforce, The Soft Machine and Dr. John - She had been married to saxophonist, Chris Wood.

Vido Musso (Vido William Musso) - Died 1-9-1982 in Rancho Mirage, CA, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 1-17-1913 in Carini, Italy - Played clarinet and saxophone - Worked with Stan Kenton, Gene Krupa, Harry James, Benny Goodman,  Woody Herman and Tommy Dorsey.

Paul Lynde - Died 1-10-1982 in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, CA, U.S. - Heart attack ( Comedian ) Born 6-13-1926 in Mount Vernon, Ohio, U.S. - (He sang, "Kids" and "Hymn For A Sunday Evening" from the Bye Bye Birdie soundtrack - He protrayed Uncle Arthur on TV's, Bewitched.

Elis Regina (Elis Regina Carvalho Costa) (aka Furacao (hurricane) and Pimentinha (little pepper)) - Died 1-18-1982 in Sao Paulo, Brazil - Overdose of alcohol and cocaine ( Jazz ) Born 3-17-1945 in Porto Alegre, Brazil - Singer - (She did,"O Bebabo e A Equilibrista" and "O Mestre-Sala Dos Mares").

Tommy Tucker (Robert Higginbotham) - Died 1-22-1982 in Newark, NJ, U.S. - Carbon tetrachloride poisoning while refinishing his floors ( Blues - Rock - Doo-Wop ) Born 3-5-1933 in Springfield, Ohio, U.S. - Singer and piano player - (He did, "Long Tall Shorty") - Was a member of The Cavaliers and Louisiana Red (They did, "Hi-Heel Sneakers") - Worked with Willie Dixon, Louisiana Red and Donny Hathaway - Cousin of astronaut, Joan Higginbotham.

Lightnin' Hopkins ( Sam Hopkins ) - Died 1-30-1982 - Cancer of the esophagus( Blues ) Born 3-15-1912 in Centerville, Texas, U.S. - Guitarist - (Recorded, "Katie May") - He was 1/2 of  Thunder and Lightnin' .

Jiri Srnka - Died 1-31-1982 in Prague, Czechoslovakia - Born 8-19-1907 in Pisek, Austro-Hungary - Composed music for almost 200 movies including, "Jan Hus" and  "Krakatit" and for TV's, "F.L.Vek".

Alex Harvey (Alexander Harvey) - Died 2-4-1982 in Zeebrugen, Belgium - Heart Attack ( Blues - Skiffle - Rock ) Born 2-5-1935 in Govan, Glasgow, Strathclyde, Scotland - Singer - Was a member of The Alex Harvey Band, The Alex Harvey Soul Band, Giant Moth, Rock Workshop (They did, "Hole In Her Stocking" and "Wade In The Water") and The Sensational Alex Harvey Band (They did, "Gamblin' Bar Room Blues" and "Boston Tea Party") - Brother of guitarist, Les Harvey.

Memphis Piano Red (John Williams) - Died 2-5-1982 in Memphis, TN, U.S. - Murdered in his home ( Blues ) Born 4-16-1905 in Germantown, TN, U.S. - Singer and pianist - Worked with The Memphis Blues Caravan.

Chiemi Eri (Chiemi Kubo) - Died Born 2-13-1982 in Tokyo, Japan ( Pop - Jazz ) Born 1-11-1937 in Tokyo, Japan - Singer - (She did, "Sanosa" and "Sakaba-nite" and remakes of, "Tennessee Waltz" and "Come On-A My House") - Worked with The King Orchestra, Izumi Yukimura and Hibari Misora.

Tamas Barta - Died 2-16-1982 (or 17) in Los Angeles, CA, U.S. - Shot in bed, possibly by mafia ( Rock ) Born 1948 in Hungary - Played guitar, harmonica and sang - Was a member of Locomotiv GT (They did, "Angel of Hobos" and "Rock Yourself Away").

Thelonious Monk (Thelonious Sphere Monk) - Died 2-17-1982 - Stroke ( Jazz - Bebop ) Born 10-11-1917 in Rocky Mount, North Carolina, U.S. - Piano player  (He did, "Blue Monk" and "There's Danger In Your Eyes") - Worked with Coleman Hawkins, Dizzy Gillespie and Charlie Rouse.

Hakon Vellesvik - Died 2-18-1982 - Car accident ( Rock ) Born 1-4-1951 - Was a member of  The New Jordal Swingers (N.J.S.).

Finn-John Andersen - Died 2-18-1982 - Car accident ( Rock ) Born 3-21-1947 - Was a member of  The New Jordal Swingers (N.J.S.)

Murray The K ( Murray Kaufman ) - Died 2-21-1982 - Cancer ( DJ ) Born 2-14-1922 - (He recorded, "Out Of The Bushes" and "The Lone Twister") - He was nicknamed, The Fifth Beatle.

Gabor Szabo - Died 2-26-1982 ( Jazz ) Born 3-8-1936 in Budapest, Hungary - Guitarist (He did, "Somewhere I Belong" and "Comin' Back") - Worked with Lena Horne and Paul Desmond.

Phil Spitalny - Died 3-1-1982 ( Jazz ) Born in Russia - Was the leader of Phil Spitalny & His Orchestra (They did, "Jackass Blues" and "I Want To Meander In The Meadow") and Phil Spitalny And His All-Girl Orchestra.

Charlie Spivak - Died 3-1-1982 ( Pop - Swing ) Born 2-17-1907 in Kiev, Ukraine - Trumpet player (He did, "Let's Go Home" and "Autumn Nocturne") Worked with Don Cavallaro's Orchestra, Paul Specht's Orchestra, The Dorsey Brothers and Ray Noble - Was married to singer, Irene Daye.

Haunani Kahalewai (Kahaunaniomaunakeakauiokalewa) - Hawaii's First Lady of Song - Died 3-2-1982 - Born 2-?-1929 in Hilo, Hawaii - Singer - (She did, "Love Song Of Kulua" and "White Ginger Blossoms") - Hawaiian Music Hall Of Fame Inductee.

John Belushi (John Adam Belushi)- Died 3-5-1982 - Overdose of cocaine and heroin ( R&B ) Born 1-24-1949 - Was a singer for The Blues Brothers and was an original member of Saturday Night Live - He did gigs with The Dead Boys and Fear.

Rusty Day (Russell Edward Davidson) - Died 3-6-1982 in Orlando, Florida, U.S. - Murdered, shot along with his son and a house guest ( Rock ) Born 12-29-1945 in Detroit, Michigan, U.S. - Singer - Was a member of Cactus and The Amboy Dukes and was the frontman for Rusty Day And The Midnighters (They did, "I Gotta Move #1").

Samuel George - Died 3-17-1982 - Stabbed in a fight ( Soul - Rock ) Born 10-1-1942 - Was a singer and the drummer for The Capitols (They did the song, "Cool Jerk").

Randy Rhoads ( Randall William Rhoads ) - Died 3-19-1982 - Plane crash after the plane's wing nicked Ozzy Osborn's tour bus. The pilot was horsing around ( Metal - Rock ) Born 12-6-1956 in Santa Monica,CA, U.S. - Guitarist - Played in Quiet Riot (They did, "Last Call For Rock & Roll" and "Look In Any Window") and for Ozzy Osbourne ("Crazy Train" and "Mr. Crowley").

Sonny Greer (William Alexander Greer) - Died 3-23-1982 in New York, NY, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 12-13-1895 in Long Beach, NJ, U.S. - Drummer - Worked with The Duke Ellington's Orchestra, The Washingtonians, Johnny Hodges, Red Allen, Tyree Glenn, Brooks Kerr and J.C. Higginbottham.

Floyd Smith - Died 3-29-1982 in Indianapolis, IN, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 1-25-1917 in St. Louis, MO, U.S. - Guitarist - Worked with his wife singer, Loleatta Hollaway and with The Jeter-Pillars Orchestra, The Sunset Royal Orchestra , Andy Kirk & His Clouds Of Joy, Bill Doggett and Eddie Johnson's Crackerjacks.

Marv Martin (Marvin Lawrence Martin) (aka Larry) - Died 3-31-1982 in Battle Creek, MI, U.S. - Lung and brain cancer ( Country ) Born 3-27-1939 in Battle Creek, MI, U.S. - Singer, guitarist and fiddler - (He did, "600 Miles From Alice" and "The Only Man She Ever Wanted") - Worked with Carl Chapman, Bill Anderson, Tommy Cash, Vern Goslin, Del Shannon, Red Sovine, Little Jimmy Dickens, Bobby Loftus and Ward Wood - I've been told Del Shannon's, "Hats Off To Larry" is about him.

Ron Sanders - Died 4-?-1982 - Shot himself, he had murdered singer, Rusty Day who he was working with, six weeks earlier ( Rock ) Guitarist.

Ann Richards (Margaret Anne Borden Richards) - Died 4-1-1982 in Hollywood, CA, U.S. - Shot herself ( Jazz ) Born 10-1-1935 in San Diego, CA, U.S. - Singer (She did remakes of, "Moanin' Low" and "Will You Still Be Mine?") - Worked with Charlie Barnet and her husband Stan Kenton.

Dan Minor - Died 4-11-1982 ( Jazz ) Born 8-10-1909 - Played trombone - Worked with Bennie Moten, Count Basie, Buddy Johnson, Lucky Millinder and Sidney Bechet.

Miriam Hruskova - Died 4-20-1982 in Prague, Czechoslovakia - Hanged herself in a recording studio ( Pop ) Born 8-30-1959 in Jilemnice, Czechoslovakia - Singer (She did, "Jsem Divna Holka" and "Hotel Romeo").

Jimmy Jones (James Henry Jones) - Died 4-29-1982 ( Jazz ) Born 12-30-1918 in Memphis, TN, U.S. - Piano player - Worked with Stuff Smith, J.C. Heard, Sarah Vaughan, Buck Clayton and Clark Terry.

Lester Bangs (Leslie Bangs) - Died 4-30-1982 - Accidental darvon overdose - Born 12-14-1948 - Rock Critic - Wrote for Rolling Stone and Creem magazines.

Roland Trone - Died 5-?-1982 ( Doo-Wop ) Born 7-2-1936 - Was one half of the duo Don And Juan  (They recorded, "What's Your Name?" and "Chicken Necks").

Cal Tjader (Callen Radcliffe Tjader Jr.) - Died 5-5-1982 in Manila ( Jazz ) Born 7-16-1925 in St. Louis, MO, U.S. - Vibraphonist and drummer (He did, "Soul Sauce" and "Curacao") - Worked with The George Shearing Quintet ("Rap Your Troubles In Drums"), Dave Brubeck, Alvino Rey and George Shearing.

Neil Bogart (Neil Bogatz) - Died 5-8-1982 - Cancer - Born 2-3-1941 in Brooklyn, NY, U.S. - Record company executive - Co-founder of Casablanca Records - Worked with Kiss, The Ohio Express, The 1910 Fruit Gum Company, Melanie, The Brooklyn Bridge and others.

Olive Brown - Died 5-9-1982  ( Blues ) Born 8-30-1913 in St. Louis, Missouri, U.S. - (She recorded, "Monkey On My Back" and "A Woman's Lament").

John Felten - Died 5-15-1982 - Plane crash ( Rock ) Was a member of The Diamonds.

Monk Montgomery (William Howard Montgomery) - Died 5-20-1982 in Las Vegas, Nev., U.S. - Cancer ( Jazz ) Born 10-10-1921 - Bassist - Worked with Lionel Hampton, Cal Tjader, The Mastersounds and The Montgomery Johnson Quintet - Brother of guitarist, Wes Montgomery and vibraphonist and pianist, Buddy Montgomery.

Jan Puimege - Died 5-22-1982 - Collapsed heart ( Pop ) Singer - (He did, "Marijke").

Warren Ryanes - Died 6-?-1982 - ( Rock ) Born 12-14-1937 in Newark, NJ, U.S. - Was a member of The Monotones (They did, "The Book Of Love").

Mercedes Fontenette Potier - Died 6-?-1982 - She was a New Orleans musician - 67 years old - Wife of cornet player Harold Potier Sr. and mother of blues drummer Harold Potier Jr.

Boyd Senter - The Jazzologist Supreme - Died 6-?-1982 in Oscoda, MI, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 11-30-1898 in Nebraska, U.S. - Played clarinet, trumpet, horns, saxophone and banjo - Led The Boyd Senter Trio (They did, "'Tain't Clean " and "Just So-So ") and Boyd Senter And His Senterpedes (They did, "Doin' You Good " and "Rich Man, Poor Man, Beggar Man, Thief ").

Addie "Micki" Harris  (Michelle Harris)- Died 6-10-1982 - Heart attack ( Rock ) Born 1-22-1940 in Passiac, New Jersey, U.S. - Was a singer for The Shirelles (They sang, "Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow ?" and "Soldier Boy") - "Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Inductee".

James Honeyman Scott - Died 6-16-1982 in London, England - Cocaine and heroin overdose ( Rock ) Born 11-4-1957 in Hereford, England - Guitarist - Was a member of The Pretenders (They recorded,"Back On The Chain Gang" and "Brass In Pocket") - Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Frank Hovington - Died 6-21-1982  ( Blues ) Born 1-9-1919 in Reading, Pennsylvania, U.S.

Harry Mills (Harry Flood Mills) - Died 6-28-1982 ( Jazz - Pop ) Born 8-19-1913 in Piqua, OH, U.S. - Singer -  He was one of the Mills Brothers (They did,"Paper Doll" and "You Always Hurt the One You Love") Worked with Louis Armstrong and Ella Fitzgerald.

Abrim Tilmon - Died 7-?-1982 - Heart attack ( R&B ) Born 1-12-1945 in Little Rock, AK, U.S. - He was a member of The Detroit Emeralds (They did,"Baby Let Me Take You" and "You Want It, You Got It").

Muggins Willard (Legally changed to George Clayton Weir) - Died 7-1-1982 in Groveland, FL, U.S. ( Rock ) Born 10-31-1946 - Played keyboards - Worked with Ron & The Starfires, Cinnamon, Nation Rocking Shadows and Matanzas.

DeFord Bailey - Died 7-2-1982 ( Country - Blues ) Born 12-14-1899 in Smith County, Tennessee, U.S. - Played harmonica - Country Music Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Jane Vasey - Died 7-7-1982 - Leukemia ( Blues - Jazz ) Was a pianist for Downchild (They did,"Flip, Flop, And Fly").

Wingy Manone (Joseph Matthews Manone) - Died 7-9-1982 in Las Vegas, NV, U.S. ( Dixieland ) Born 2-13-1904 in New Orleans, LA, U.S. - One armed trumpeter  (He composed,"Tar Paper Stomp" which later became "In The Mood" and charted with,"Party Doll") was a member of The Crescent City Jazzers - Worked with Matty Matlock, Eddie Miller, Bud Freeman and Jack Teagarden.

Bill Justis (William E. Justis, Jr.)- Died 7-15-1982 - Cancer ? ( Rock )  Born 10-14-1926 in Birmingham, Alabama, U.S (He recorded, "Raunchy") Was an arranger for Jerry Lee Lewis, Johnny Cash and others.

Lionel Daunais - Died 7-18-1982 Ville Saint-Laurent, Quebec, Canada ( Pop - Opera - Folk - Children's Music ) Born 12-31-1901 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada - Singer and composer - Worked with the Troubadours de Bytown quartet, the Trio lyrique - Canadian Songwriters Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Sonny Stitt (Edward Stitt) - Died 7-22-1982 in Washington, DC, U.S. - Heart attack ( Jazz ) Born 2-2-1924 in Boston, Massachussets, U.S. - Worked with Tiny Bradshaw, Billy Eckstine, Dizzy Gillespie, Gene Ammons, Miles Davis, James Moody and Pee Wee' Ellis.

Daniel Beard - Died 7-27-1982 - Fire in his apartment ( Engineer ) Born 11-4-1949 - Worked with Kate Campbell.

Keith Green (Keith Gordon Green) - Died 7-28-1982 in Garden Valley, TX, U.S. - Plane crash ( Contemporary Christian ) Born 10-21-1953 in Sheepshead Bay, NY, U.S. - Singer and songwriter - (He recorded,"So You Wanna Go Back To Egypt?" and "Your Love Broke Through") - Worked with Bob Dylan.

Nick Lucas (Dominic Nicholas Anthony Lucanese) - The grandfather of the jazz guitar and The Cavalier Troubadour - Died 7-28-1982 in Colorado Springs, CO, U.S. - Double pneumonia ( Jazz ) Born 8-22-1897 in Newark, NJ, U.S. - Sang and played mandolin, guitar, banjo and ukelele - (He did, "Tip-Toe Through The Tulips" and "Teasing The Frets") - Led The Crooning Troubadours - Was a member of The Lucas Ukelele Trio And Novelty Quartet.

Tex Atchison (Shelby David Atchison) - Died 8-4-1982 ( Country ) Born 2-5-1912 in Rosine, KY, U.S. - Was a member of The Prarie Ramblers.

Ferre Grignard - Died 8-8-1982 in Antwerp, Belgium - Throat cancer ( Skiffle - Folk - Blues ) Born 3-13-1939 in Antwerp, Belgium - Singer - (He did, "Ring Ring" and "Knockin' Me Down").

Joe Tex (Joseph Arrington Jr. aka Joseph Hazziez) - Died 8-13-1982 - Heart attack ( Country - Rock - Disco ) Born 8-8-1933 in Baytown, Texas, U.S. (He did, "I Gotcha" and "Ain't Gonna Bump No More").

Benny Ashburn - Died 8-16-1982 - Heart attack - Managed The Commodores .

George Barajas - Died 8-17-1982 ( Rock ) Born 6-17-1949 - Was a bassist and a singer for Duke Jupiter (They did, "Ballad Of Louie And Guido" and "Take Me Home, Jericho").

Anna German - Died 8-26-1982 - Cancer ( Pop ) Born 2-14-1936 in Urgench, in southern Uzbekistan, USSR - Singer - (She did, "The Man I Love" and "Dziekuje Mamo").

Natty Dominique (Anatie Dominique) - Died 8-30-1982 in Chicago, IL, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 8-2-1896 in New Orleans, LA, U.S. - Played Trumpet - Worked with Johnny Dodds, Carroll Dickerson, Jimmie Noone and Jelly Roll Morton - He was the uncle of trumpeter Don Albert.

Joe Bauer - Died 9-?-1982 - Brain tumor ( Rock ) Born 9-26-1941 in Memphis, Tennessee, U.S. - Was a drummer forThe Youngbloods ( They did, "Get Together" and "Grizzly Bear").

Christine Nelson (Christine Elizabeth Nelson) (aka Peach Pid) - Died 9-?-1982 in New York, NY, U.S. - Cystic fibrosis - Born 1960 in New York, NY, U.S. - Was a member of The Pids - Her biography "Give Me One Wish" was written by her mother, Jackie Gordon - Daughter of Muppets performer, Jerry Nelson.

Peter DeAngelis - Died 9-1-1982 - Born 6-18-1929 in south Philadelphia, PA, U.S, - Producer, manager and songwriter - (He co-wrote with Robert Marcucci, "Too Young to Love" and "Shivers") - Co-founder of Chancellor Records - He worked with Frankie Avalon, Fabian and Al Martino.

Jimmy Wakely (James Clarence Wakeley) - The Singing Cowboy and The Melody Kid - Died 9-23-1982 in Sylmar, CA, U.S. ( Country - Pop ) Born 2-26-1914 in Minneola, AR, U.S. - Singer and actor - (He did, "One Has My Name (The Other Has My Heart)" and "Too Late") - Was a member of The Bell Boys, The Jimmy Wakely Trio and Jimmy Wakely And His Saddle Pals - Appeared in the films, Across The Rio Grande and Redskins And Redheads) -  Western Music Association Hall Of Fame Inductee and Nashville Songwriters Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Rudolf Tichacek - Died 9-27-1982 in Munich, Germany - Car crash ( Pop - Jazz ) Born 1-18-1943 in Olomouc, Czechoslovakia (at the time Bohemia-Moravian Protectorat) - Composer and tenor sax player for PBB, JOCR and SHQ (They did, "Blankyt", "Laska" and "Modrooky Jaguar").

Bobby Lynch - Died 10-2-1982 ( Folk ) Born 5-18-1935 - Singer and guitarist - Was a member of The Dubliners.

James Anthony Carmichael - Died 10-6-1982 ( Producer - Arranger ) Born 10-12-1920 in Harrodsburg, KY, U.S. (Played piano on Bettye Swann's," Make Me Yours")   - Worked with The Commodores ("Slippery When Its Wet"), Lionel Richie ("Truly"), Diana Ross, The Jackson 5 and The Temptations ("Happy People").

Virgil Doyle Wilburn - Died 10-16-1982 in Nashville, TN, U.S. ( Country ) Born 7-7-1930 in Hardy, MS, U.S. - He was half of The Wilburn Brothers duo (They did,"Trouble's Back In Town" and "Hurt Her Once For Me").

Hoyt Hawkins - Died 10-23-1982 ( Gospel ) Born 3-31-1927 in Paducah, KY, U.S. - Pianist and singer - Was a member of The Jordanaires - Country Music Hall Of Fame Inductee, Vocal Group Hall Of Fame Foundation Inductee and Gospel Music Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Little Amos Sanford - Died 10-29-1982 in St. Louis, MO, U.S. ( Blues ) Born 6-7-1923 - Played slide guitar - Worked with Doc Terry ("Things Can't Stay The Same") and Piano Slim.

Richard Heath - Died 10-30 or 31-1982 - Car crash ( Rock ) Singer and guitarist - Was a member of Oz Knozz and Vince Vance And The Valients.

Platinum Paul (Paul Stafford) - Died 11-?-1982 - Luekemia ( Punk ) Born 6-15-1957 - Singer - Was a member of The Skuds (They did, "Pull Down Your Pants And Dance" and "We Do What We Want").

Harvey Lester (Harvey Bryant Lester) - Died 11-?-1982 ( Gospel ) Born 2-27-1902 - Was one of The Lesters - Owned The Kingsland Theater that hosted The Blackwood Brothers, The Statesmen and The Speer Family -  Southern Gospel Music Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Daddy Duke (Duke  Groner) - Died 11-7-1982 in Chicago, Ill., U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 3-25-1906 in Ardmore, Oklahoma, U.S. - Singer - Worked with Nat Towles, Andy Kirk, Jimmy Lunceford, Buster Bennett, Wild Bill Davis and Jelly Holt And His Four Blazers.

Gwydion (Gwydion Pennderwen) (Tom DeLong) - Died 11-9-1982 - Car crash ( Acid Folk ) Born 5-21-1946 - Singer and guitarist (He did, "The Wintry Queen" and "Spring Strathspey").

Patrick J. Cowley - Died 11-12-1982 - A.I.D.S. ( Disco ) Born 10-19-1950 in Buffalo, NY, U.S. (He did, "Menegry" and "Megatron Man") - Worked with Sylvester ("Can't Stop Dancing" and "You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real)") and Paul Parker ("Right On Target") - He was a co-founder of Megatone Records.

David Blue (Stuart David Cohen) - Died 12-2-1982 in New York, NY, U.S. - Heart attack while jogging ( Folk ) Born 2-18-1941 Providence, Rhode Island, U.S. - Singer, songwriter and actor - (He did, "Lady O Lady" and "Scales For A Window Thief") - (Wrote The Eagles', "Outlaw Man") - Worked with The Rolling Thunder Revue.

Lovin Sam Theard - Died 12-7-1982 in Los Angeles, CA, U.S. ( Blues ) Born 10-10-1904 in New Orleans, LA, U.S. - Singer and composer - (He did, "I Wonder Who's Boogiein' My Woogie Now") - Worked with Cow Cow Davenport.

Tommy Cogbill (Thomas Clark Cogbill) - Died 12-7-1982 in Nashville, TN, U.S. - Born 4-8-1932 in Johnson Grove, TN, U.S. - Bassist - Worked with Dusty Springfield ("Son Of A Preacher Man"), Wilson Picket ("Funky Broadway"), Aretha Franklin ("Chain Of Fools") and The Box Tops ("Cry Like A Baby").

Dave Torbert - Died 12-7-1982 - Heart attack ( Rock ) Born 6-7-1948 - Sang, played guitar, bass and harmonica - Was a member of Horses (They did, "Class Of 69" and "Freight Train"), Kingfish (They did, "Overnight Bag" and "Shake And Fingerpop") and The New Riders Of The Purple Sage (They did, "California Day" and "Contract") - Worked with Bob Weir.

Marty Robbins (Martin David Robinson) - Died 12-8-1982 in Nashville, TN, U.S. - Heart attack ( Rock & Roll - Country - Gospel ) Born 9-26-1925 in Glendale, Arizona, U.S. - Singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist - (Recorded, "Devil Woman" and "A White Sport Coat (And A Pink Carnation)") - Country Music Hall Of Fame Inductee, Western Music Association Hall Of Fame Inductee and Nashville Songwriters Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Lazy Bill Lucas - Died 12-11-1982 in Minneapolis, MN, U.S. - Natural causes ( Blues ) Born 5-29-1918 in Wynne, Arkansas, U.S. - Singer and pianist ( He did, "I Had A Dream" and "My Best Friend's Blues") - Worked with Snooky Pryor, Howlin' Wolf and Little Walter.

Jack Ross - Died 12-16-1982 ( Pop - Novelty ) Born 11-1-1916 - Trumpet player - (He did, "Cinderella" and "Happy Jose").

Big Joe Williams (Joseph Lee Williams)- Died 12-17-1982  ( Blues ) Born 10-16-1903 in Crawford, Mississippi, U.S. - (He wrote, "(Baby) Please Don't Go"and "Crawlin' King Snake" ) - Was a member of The Birmingham Jug Band - Blues Foundation's Hall Of Fame Inductee .

Andy Anderson (Andrew Anderson) - Died 12-19-1982 ( Jazz ) Born 8-12-1912 in New Orleans, LA, U.S. - Played trumpet - Worked with The Young Tuxedo Brass Band.

Don Law (Donald Firth Law) - Died 12-20-1982 in La Marque, TX, U.S. - Born 2-24-1902 in London, England - Was the head of Columbia Records' country music division - Worked with Johnny Cash, Ray Price, Carl Smith, Johnny Horton and Lefty Frizzell - Country Music Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Tomaz Hostnik - Died 12-21-1982 - Hung himself ( Rock ) Born 1961 in Trbovlje - Singer and co-founder of Laibach (They did, "Life Is Life" and "Panorama").

Roger Bowling - Died 12-26-1982 Georgia, U.S. ( Country ) Born 1944 in Harlan, Kentucky, U.S. - Singer and songwriter - (He did, "Always One Redneck Away From Loving You" and "Yellow Pages") - (Co-wrote Billie Jo Spears', "Blanket On The Ground" and Kenny Rogers', "Lucille" and "Coward Of The County").

1983

Vincent Duffy - Died 1983 - Suicide ( Prog Rock ) Bassist - Was a member of Peggy's Leg (They did, "Into The Nightmare" and "Just Another Journey").

Harry Miller (Harold Miller) - Died 1983 ( Rock - Jazz ) Double bassist - Was a member of The Vikings (They did, "Skokiaan Rock" and "Hamba Kahle Rock") - Worked with Bob Downes, Mike Cooper and King Crimson.

Rob Kirk (Gary Alan Kerkes) - Died 1983 in California, U.S. - Murdered ( Rock ) Singer - Led Rob Kirk And The Word (They did, "Girls Talk" and "Summer Winds").

Kippie Moeketsiied - Died 1983 ( Jazz ) Born 1925 - Saxophonist - Worked with Band In Blue, The Shantytown Sextet, The Harlem Swingsters and The Jazz Epistles.

Haruna Ishola - Died 1983 - Born in Ijebu-igbo - Singer - Led Alhaji Haruna Ishola And His Apala Group.

Barry Fisk - Died 1983 - Suicide ( Metal ) Singer - Was a member of Possessed.

Kurt Herkenberg - Died 1983 in Kreuzberg, West Berlin, West Germany ( Rock - R&B ) Born 9-5-1948 - Bassist - Worked with Interzone, Curly Curve and Tangerine Dream.

Bill  Boyer Jr. (Jonas William  Boyer Jr.) - Died 1983 ( Folk ) Performed with his wife, Janet Beers Boyer - Co-founder of The Music Folk music store, The Focal Point a music venue and coffee house and The St. Louis Folk Music Society.

Jack Beam - Died 1983 - Crushed by a tipping plane ( Rock ) Played keyboards - Worked with Action Bullet.

Shep Wolan (Sylvester Wolan) - Died 1983 ( Polka ) Born 3-8-1904 in Salem, MA, U.S. - Played violin and trumpet - (He did, "Nie Zaluj" and "The Secret Tears Waltz") - International Polka Music Hall Of Fame Inductee.

George Morrison - Died 1983 ( Jazz - Country ) Born 1891 in Missouri - Played guitar and violin - Was a member of The Morrison Brothers String Band, later renamed The Morrison Orchestra.

Phil Norwood - Died 1983 ( Rock ) Drummer -  Was a member of Catfood and Whysper.

Ira Gershwin (Israel Gershvin) (aka Arthur Francis) - Died 1983 ( Pop - Show Tunes ) Born in New York - (He did,"They Can't Take That Away From Me" and "The Man That Got Away") He collaborated with his brother George Gershwin - Worked with Kurt Weill, Jerome Kern and Harold Arlen.

Sidney Dunbar - Died 1983 - Heart attack ( Doo-Wop ) Was a member of The Calvanes.

Joe Fritz - Died 1983 ( Blues ) Born 11-3-1924 in Houston, TX, U.S. - Singer and sax player (He did,"I Love You Darlin'") Worked with Bobby Bland and Junior Parker.

Richard Hughes - Died 1983 - Suicide ( Rock ) Born 3-31-1950 - Drummer - Worked with Johnny Winter ("Rock Me Baby" and "Cheap Tequila").

Hugh Mundell (aka Jah Levi and The Blessed Youth) - Died 1983 in Kingston, Jamaica - Shot while sitting in a car ( Reggae ) Born 6-14-1962 in Kingston, Jamaica - Singer - ( He did, "Where Is Natty Dread" and "Africa Must Be Free By 1983") - Produced Junior Reid.

Amadou Toure (Amadou Tilo Toure) - Died 1-?-1983  in Paris, France - Heart attack ( Djabadong - Reggae Fusion ) He was 36 years old - Was a member of Toure Kunda.

David Buttolph (James David Buttolph Jr.) - Died 1-1-1983 in Poway, CA, U.S. - Born 8-3-1902 in New York, NY, U.S. - Composer and pianist - Scored over 300 movies including, The Mark Of Zorro and House Of Wax and wrote music for TV shows such as Maverick and 77 Sunset Strip.

Dick Emery (Richard Gilbert Emery) - Died 1-2-1983 - Heart disorder ( Comedian - Entertainer ) Born 2-19-1917 in Bloomsbury, London - (He did, "If You Love Her" and "Oooh You Are Awful") - Star of The Dick Emery Show.

Robert West (Robert L. West) - Died 1-8-1983 - Born 3-1-1912 in Montgomery, AL, U.S. - Producer and record label owner - Worked with The Falcons and Marv Johnson - Ran Silhouette Records, Kudo Records, Bumble Bee Records, Flick Records and LuPine Records.

Doodles Weaver (Winstead Sheffield Weaver) - Died 1-17-1983 in Los Angeles, CA, U.S. - Shot himself ( Novelty ) Born 5-11-1911 in Los Angeles, CA, U.S. - Comedian, singer and pianist - (He did a remake of, "Eleanor Rigby") - Worked with Spike Jones And The City Slickers.

Don Costa - Died 1-19-1983 ( Arranger - Producer ) Born 6-10-1925 in Boston, MA, U.S. - (He had hits with, "Never On Sunday" and "Theme from The Unforgiven") - He was an A&R director at ABC-Paramount and then United Artists - He was an arranger and/or producer for Vaughn Monroe, Frank Sinatra, Vic Damone, Lloyd Price, Donny Osmond, Paul Anka and others.

Billy Fury (Ronald William Wynchley) - Died 1-28-1983 in Paddington, West London, England - Heart disease ( Rockabilly - Pop ) Born 4-17-1941 in Sefton, Liverpool, Lancashire, England  - Singer and guitarist - (He recorded, "Collette" and "Jealousy").

Lamar Williams - Died 1-28-1983 in Los Angeles, California, U.S. - Agent Orange related cancer ( Southern Rock ) Born 1-14-1949 in Gulfport, Mississippi, U.S. - Was the bassist for The Allman Brothers Band  (They did,"Just Another Love Song" and "Ramblin' Man") and Sea Level (They did,"Nothing Matters But The Fever" and "Had To Fall").

Sweet Emma Barrett (aka The bell gal) - Died 1-28-1983 in New Orleans, LA, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 3-25-1897 in New Orleans, LA, U.S. - Singer and pianist (She recorded such songs as,"A Good Man Is Hard To Find" and "Big Butter and Egg Man") Worked with The Preservation Hall Jazz Band, Oscar "Papa" Celestin and Armand Piron.

Lorraine Ellison (Marybelle Luraine Ellison Gonzalez-Keys) - Died 1-31-1983 - Ovarian cancer ( Soul - Gospel - R&B ) Born 3-17-1931 in Philadelphia, PA, U.S. (She did,"Call Me (Anytime You Want Some Lovin')" and "Stay With Me") She was a singer for The Ellison Singers, The Golden Chords and The Sylvania Singers.

Robert Marquam - Died 2-?-1983 ( Rock ) He was the drummer for The Joe Ely Band and a drummer and co-founder of The Squeezetones.

Sam Chatmon - Died 2-2-1983 ( Blues - Folk ) Born 1-10-1897 in Bolton, Mississippi, U.S. - Sang and played  banjo, mandolin, harmonica and guitar - Was a member of The Sheiks and The Chatmon Brothers - Brother of musicians, Lonnie Chatmon and Bo Carter Chatmon.

Karen Carpenter (Karen Anne Carpenter) - Died 2-4-1983 - Heart failure due to Anorexia Nervosa ( Pop ) Born 3-2- 1950 in New Haven, Conneticut, U.S. - Singer - Was a member of The Carpenters (They recorded, "Yesterday Once More" and "We've Only Just Begun").

Eubie Blake (James Hubert Blake) - Died 2-12-1987 in Brooklyn, NY, U.S. ( Ragtime ) Born 2-7-1887 in Baltimore, Maryland, U.S. - Pianist and composer - Author of the Broadway musical, Shuffle Along which included the songs, "I'm Just Wild About Harry" and "Bandana Days" - Was a member of The Dixie Duo .

Dig Richards (Digby Richards) - Died 2-16-1983 - Pancreatic cancer - Born 9-12-1941 - Was the leader of The R' Jays.

Cliff Trenier (Clifford Trenier) - Died 3-2-1983 in Las Vegas, NV, U.S. - Cancer ( R&B - Rock ) Born 7-14-1919 in Mobile, Ala., U.S. - He was one of The Treniers (They did, "Go! Go! Go!" and "Good Rockin' Tonight").

Peter Ivers (Peter Scott Ivers) - Died 3-3-1983 in Los Angeles, CA, U.S. - Murdered during a robbery ( Rock ) Born 9-?-1946 in Illinois, U.S. - Harmonica player and singer - Was the leader of The Peter Ivers Band (They did, "Alpha Centauri" and "I've Got A Sex Crush") - Was the host of New Wave Theatre - Worked with The Beacon Street Union, John Cale, Roderick Taylor, Wendy Waldman, Maxine Weldon and John Klemmer.

Arthur Godfrey (Arthur Morton Godfrey) - Died 3-16-1983 in New York, NY, U.S. - Emphysema ( Pop - Polka - Novelty ) Born 8-31-1903 in New York, NY, U.S. - (He did, "Too Fat Polka" and "Slap 'Er Down Again, Paw") - Singer, banjo and ukulele player - He played, "Just Like Gene Autry; A Foxtrot" on Moby Grape's, Wow LP, the only vinyl record I know of that requires you to get up and change the record speed from 33 1/3 RPM to 78 RPM to hear the song correctly - Ukulele Hall Of Fame Inductee and Radio Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Ernie Royal (Ernest Andrew Royal) - Died 3-16-1983 in New York, NY, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 2-6-1921 in Los Angeles, CA, U.S. - Played trumpet - Worked with Lionel Hampton, Charlie Barnet, Duke Ellington, Count Basie and Stan Kenton.

Gigi Gryce (Basheer Qusim) - Died 3-17-1983  in Pensacola, FL, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 11-28-1927 in Pensacola, FL, U.S. - Saxophonist (He composed,"Minority") Was the leader of The Jazz Lab Quintet - Worked with Max Roach, Oscar Pettiford, Lionel Hampton, Thelonious Monk, Richard Williams, Tadd Dameron and Clifford Brown.

William Walton (Sir William Turner Walton) - Died 3-18-1983 in Ischia, Naples, Italy ( Jazz - Symphonic - Opera - Choral ) Born 3-29-1902 in Oldham, Lancashire, England - Composer, pianist and conductor - Wrote music for the films, Hamlet and Dreaming Lips.

Wallace Jones - Died 3-23-1983 ( Jazz ) Born 11-16-1906 - Played trumpet - Worked with Duke Ellington, Willie Bryant, Snub Mosley, Benny Carter and his cousin Chick Webb.

Cliff Carlisle (Clifford Raymond Carlisle) (aka Amos Greene and Bob Clifford) - Died 4-2-1983 in Lexington, KY, U.S. - Heart attack ( Country ) Born 5-6-1904 in Taylorsville, KY, U.S. - Songwriter, guitarist and singer - (He did, "Mouse's Ear Blues" and "That Nasty Swing") - Was a member of The Carlisles - Worked with Wilbur Ball.

David Kelii - Died 4-3-1983 - Born 5-29-1914 in Lahaina, Maui, HI - Played steel guitar - Was a regular on Radio's, Hawaii Calls - Steel Guitar Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Danny Rapp - Died 4-5-1983 - Shot himself ( Rock & Roll ) Born 5-10-1941 in Philapelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S. - Was the singer for Danny and The Juniors (Did, "Rock And Roll Is Here To Stay" and "At The Hop").

Pete Farndon - Died 4-14-1983 in London, England - Drowned in a bathtub after doing heroin ( Rock ) Born 6-2-1952 in Hereford, England - Bassist - Was a member of The Pretenders (They recorded,"Brass In Pocket and "Talk Of The Town") - Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Felix Pappalardi (Felix Pappalardi Jr.) - Died 4-17-1983 in Manhattan, New York, U.S. - Accidentally? shot by his wife ( Rock ) Born 12-30-1939 or 12-20-1937 in The Bronx, New York, U.S. - Played bass, piano, viola and sang - Was a member of Max Morath's Original Rag Quartet and Mountain (They did, "Mississippi Queen" and "Nantucket Sleighride") - Worked with The Vagrants, Tom Paxton, Blues Creation, Vince Martin and Fred Neil - Produced Cream and The Youngbloods.

Sarah Makem - Died 4-20-1983 ( Irish Folk ) Born 10-18-1900 - Singer - Was a member of The Singing Greenes Of Keady - Mother of singer and guitarist, Tommy Makem.

Earl Hines (Earl Kenneth Hines) (aka Earl Fatha Hines) - The first modern jazz pianist - Died 4-22-1983 in Oakland, CA, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 12-28-1903 in Duquesne, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, U.S. - Pianist, leader and composer - (He composed, "Rosetta"  and "My Monday Date") - Worked with Lois Deppe, Louis Armstrong ("Weather Bird" and "Fireworks"), Charlie Parker, Buddy Conner, Sarah Vaughan and others.

Jimmy Mundy (James Mundy) - Died 4-24-1983 in New York, NY, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 6-28-1907 in Cincinnati, OH, U.S. - Played saxophone and was an arranger - Worked with Benny Goodman, Dizzy Gillespie, Earl Hines, Gene Krupa and Count Basie.

Bronislau Kaper (Bronislaw Kaper) (aka Bronislaw Kapper, Benjamin Kapper and Edward Kane) -  Died 4-26-1983 in Hollywood, CA, U.S. - Born 2-5-1902 in Warsaw, Russian Empire (now Poland) - Composer and pianist - (He wrote, "Green Dolphin Street" and co-wrote, "Invitation") - Wrote music for the musical, Lili and for TV's, The F.B.I. .

Muddy Waters ( McKinley Morganfield ) - The father of Chicago blues -  Died 4-30-1983 in Westmont, Illinois- Heart attack ( Blues ) Born 4-4-1915 in Rolling Fork, Mississippi, U.S. - Singer and guitarist - (Recorded, "Rollin' Stone" and Got My Mojo Working") - Worked with Paul Butterfield, Mike Bloomfield, Jimmy Rogers, Elgin Evans, Otis Spann, Big Crawford, The Band and Johnny Winter - Father of blues musician Big Bill Morganfield - Blues Foundation Hall Of Fame Inductee and Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame Inductee.

P.T. Hayes - Died 5-2-1983 in Chicago, IL, U.S. ( Blues ) Born 4-3-1923 in Byhalia, MS, U.S. - Sang and played harmonica - Was a member of The Rhythm Rockers - Worked with Johnny Young, Big Boy Spires ("Rhythm Rock Boogie"), Hound Dog Taylor, The Blues Rockers ("Calling All Cows"), Earl Dranes, Shelby Lydell and Louis and Dave Meyers.

Clarence E. Quick - Died 5-5-1983 - Heart Attack ( Soul ) Born 2-2-1937 in Brooklyn, New York, U.S. - Was a member of The Del-Vikings (They did, "Come And Go With Me" and "Voodoo Man").

Kai Winding (Kai Chresten Winding) - Died 5-6-1983 ( Jazz ) Born 5-18-1922 in Aarhus, Denmark - Trombonist - (He did, "More" and "Wind Bag") - Worked with Bennie Green, J.J. Johnson, Alvino Rey, Stan Kenton and Miles Davis.

Dale Shelnut (Dale Lawrence Shelnut) - Died 5-11-1983 near Pensacola, FL, U.S. ( Gospel ) Born 7-29-1935 near Guin, AL, U.S. - Singer - Was a member of The Rhythm Masters, The Tennesseeans Quartet and The Dixie Echoes - Southern Gospel Music Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Eduardo Benavente - Died 5-14-1983 near Alfaro, La Rioja, Spain - Car accident after a gig ( Punk ) Born 10-30-1962 in Madrid, Spain - Singer and guitarist - Was a member of Plastico, Alaska y los Pegamoides (They did, "Volar" and "En el jardín") and Paralisis Permanente (They did, "Nacidos para dominar").

Alejandro De Michele - Died 5-20-1983 in Buenos Aires, Argentina - Car accident ( Rock ) Born 6-5-1954 in Buenos Aires, Argentina - Singer - Was a member of Pastoral (They did, "Mensaje Mágico" and "En el hospicio") - Worked with Merlin (Gustavo Montesano).

Rex Gosdin - Died 5-23-1983 - Heart attack ( Country ) Born 1938 in Woodland, AL, U.S. - Worked with his brother Vern Gosdin (They did, "(Just Enough To Keep Me) Hangin' On") and Chris Hillman.

Paul Quinichette (aka Vice Prez) - Died 5-25-1983 in New York, NY, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 5-17-1916 in Denver, CO, U.S. - Saxophonist - Worked with Jay McShann, Johnny Otis,  Lucky Millinder, Red Allen, Hot Lips Page, Count Basie, Sammy Price, Brooks Kerr, Buddy Tate, Benny Goodman, Billie Holiday and John Coltrane.

Stan Rogers - Died 6-2-1983 - Smoke inhalation because of a fire on board a plane ( Rock - Folk ) Born 11-29-1949 in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada - (He did, "Fogarty's Cove" and "Watching the Apples Grow") - Worked with Curly Stubbs, Paul Vastola, Jimmy Ibbotson and John Macy.

Big Sambo (James Harold Young) - Died 6-10-1983 in Port Arthur, TX, U.S. ( Rock ) Born 8-3-1937 in Beaumont TX, U.S. - Saxophonist - He was the leader of Big Sambo And The Housewreckers (They did, "The Rains Came").

J.B. Hutto (Joseph Benjamin Hutto) - Died 6-12-1983 in Harvey, IL, U.S. - Lung cancer ( Blues ) Born 4-26-1926 in Blackville, South Carolina, U.S. - Drummer, singer, guitarist and pianist - (He did, "Please Help" and "LuluBelle's Here") - Worked with The Golden Crown Gospel Singers. The Twisters and The Hawks - Blues Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Douglas Buzz Shearman - Died 6-16-1983 - Motorcycle accident ( Hard Rock ) Was a singer for Moxy (They recorded, "Can't You See I'm A Star") and was a member of Sherman & Peabody and Buzz Saw .

Walter Jackson - Died 6-20-1983 - Cerebral haemorrhage ( R&B - Soul ) Born 3-19-1938 in Pensacola, FL, U.S. (He did,"It's An Uphill Climb (To The Bottom)" and "Suddenly I'm All Alone").

Vaclav Kucera - Died 6-21-1983 in Prague, Czechoslovakia ( Pop ) Born 9-10-1925 in Prague - Played steel guitar and trumpet for Kucerovci (They did, "Cucurrucucu", "Ajo Mama" and "La Paloma").

Larry Darnell (Leo Donald) - Died 7-3-1983 - Cancer ( R&B ) Born 12-21-1928 in Columbus OH, U.S. - Vocalist (He had hits with,"For You My Love" and "I'll Get Along Somehow").

Harry James (Harry Hagg James) - Died 7-5-1983 in Las Vegas, NV, U.S. - Lymphatic cancer ( Swing - Bop ) Born 3-15-1916 in Albany, CA, U.S. Trumpeter - Was a member of Ben Pollack's Big Band, Benny Goodman's Orchestra and The leader of The Harry James Orchestra (They did, "Two O'Clock Jump" and "Tuxedo Junction") - Worked with Frank Sinatra - He had been married to actress, Betty Grable.

Steve Andres - Died 7-5-1983 ( Rock ) Singer and bassist - Worked with Agent, Airborne, Rare Breed and Tyrro.

Sister Ernestine Washington (Ernestine B. Washington) - Died 7-5-1983 in Brooklyn, NY, U.S. - ( Gospel ) Born 7-16-1913 in Little Rock, AR, U.S. - Singer - (She did, "My Record Will Be There" and "The Uncloudy Day") - Worked with With The Dixie Hummingbirds ("If I Could Just Make It In"), Bunk Johnson's Jazz Band ("God's Amazing Grace") and Rev. Frederick D. Washington ("The Wildest Creature").

Roosevelt Sykes (aka Dobby Bragg, Willie Kelly and Easy Papa Johnson) The Honeydripper - Died 7-11-1983 - Heart attack (Blues) Born 1-31-1906 in Elmar, Arkansas, U.S. (He recorded,"Henry Ford Blues" and "Forty Four Blues") Blues Foundation Hall of Fame Inductee.

Chris Wood (Christopher Gordon Blandford Wood) - Died 7-12-1983 in Birmingham, England - Liver failure or pneumonia ( Rock ) Born 6-24-1944 in Birmingham, England - Saxophonist - Played for Jimi Hendrix and was a member of Traffic (They recorded, "Hole In My Shoe" and "Paper Sun") and Ginger Baker's Air Force - He had been married to singer, Jeanette Jacobs - Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Zdenek Liska - Died 7-13-1983 in Prague, Czechoslovakia - Born 3-16-1922 in Smecno, Czechoslovakia - Complications of diabetes - Composer - He wrote music for over 70 movies and TV series including, "Marketa Lazarova", "Major Zeman" and "Spalovac mrtvol".

Jimmy Liggins - Died 7-18-1983 in Durham, NC, U.S. ( Jump Blues - Boogie-Woogie - R&B ) Born 10-14-1922 in Newby, OK, U.S. - (He did, "Cadillac Boogie" and "I Ain't Drunk") - Was the leader and guitarist for The Drops of Joy - Worked with Harold Land, Charlie "Little Jazz" Ferguson, and Maxwell Davis - Brother of Joe Liggins.

Bobby King (Robert L. King) - Died 7-22-1983 in Chicago, IL, U.S. ( R&B ) Born 1-29-1941 in Jefferson County, AR, U.S. - Singer and guitarist - Worked with Hank Ballard And The Midnighters, Bobby Bland, Lee Shot Williams, Jesse Anderson, Eddy Clearwater, Freddy King, Lonnie Johnson, The Aces and Sonny Thompson.

Georges Auric - Died 7-23-1983 in Paris, France ( Avant-garde )- Born 2-15-1899 in Lodeve, Herault, Languedoc-Roussillon, France - Composer - (He did, "The Song from Moulin Rouge") - Worked with Les Six - Wrote music for films including, "The Lavender Hill Mob" and "Roman Holiday".

Jerome Moross - Died 7-27-1983 - Congestive heart failure - Born 8-1-1913 in Brooklyn, NY, U.S. - Compose and pianist - Wrote music for the films, The Big Country and The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn and for TV's, Wagon Train. - His music has been sampled by Atomic Kitten.

Rick Blakemore - Died 8-?-1983 - Traffic accident ( Rock ) Born 1950 - Guitarist, singer and songwriter - Was a member of Fandango (They did, "Shadow Boxing" and "Misery Road").

Wild Bill Moore (William M. Moore) Died 8-1-1983 ( Jazz - R&B ) Born 6-13-1918 in Houston, TX, U.S. - Singer and saxophonist (He did,"We're Gonna Rock" and "Bubbles") Worked with The Slim Gaillard Orchestra, Marvin Gaye, Shifty Henry's All Stars, Scatman Crothers and Paul Hucklebuck Williams - He also was an amateur Golden Gloves light heavyweight champ in 1937.

James Jamerson (James Lee Jamerson Jr.)- Died 8-2-1983 - Pneumonia ( Soul ) Born 1-29-1938 in Charleston, SC, U.S. - Bass player - Utility man - Played for The Temptations, Marvin Gaye, The Dramatics, The Mighty Clouds of Joy, Aretha Franklin, Quincy Jones, The Four Tops, Martha And The Vandellas, Bob Dylan and many others - Was one of The Funk Brothers - Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Inductee .

Jobriath Boone (Bruce Wayne Campbell) (aka Jobriath Salisbury and Cole Berlin) - Died 8-3-1983 -  A.I.D.S. related illness (Glam Rock ) Born 12-14-1946 - Singer, guitarist and keyboardist - (He did, "World Without End" and "Rock Of Ages") -  He led The Creatures  and was a member of Pidgeon (They did, "When She Arrives" and "Wind Blows Cold").

Vaclav Trojan - Died 8-5-1983 in Prague, Czechoslovakia - Heart failure - Born 4-24-1907 in Plzen, Czechoslovakia (at the time Austro-Hungary) - Composer  - Wrote music for the puppet films by cartoon-film maker and director Jiri Trnka ( "Bajaja", "Spalicek" and "Svejk") and an opera for children ("Kolotoc" (Merry-Go-Round)).

Judy Canova (Juliette Canova) - The Ozark Nightingale -  Died 8-5-1983 in Hollywood, CA, U.S. - Cancer ( Country ) Born 11-20-1913 in Starke, FL, U.S. - Comedienne, actress, singer, yodeler and guitarist - Was a member of Three Georgia Crackers - Mother of actress, Diana Canova.

Klaus Nomi (Klaus Sperber) - Died 8-6-1983 in New York, NY, U.S. - A.I.D.S. ( Rock - Disco ) Born 1-24-1944 in Bavarian Alps, Germany - (He did, "Cold Song"' and "Simple Man") - He worked with Man Parrish and David Bowie.

Don Ewell (Donald Tyson Ewell) - Died 8-9-1983 in Pompano Beach, FL, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 11-14-1916 in Baltimore, MD, U.S. - Pianist - Worked with Kid Ory, Bunk Johnson, Sidney Bechet, Muggsy Spanier, Jack Teagarden and Willie "The Lion" Smith.

Michael Smith - Died 8-17-1983 - Stoned to death by political opponents ( Reggae ) (He did, "Mi Cyaan Believe It").

Brian Marnell - Died 8-19-1983 - Suffocation after overcoming a heroin habit ( Rock ) Born 1954 - Guitarist and songwriter - Was a member of SVT (They did, "Heart Of Stone" and "New Year"), Sound Hole and Airplay - Worked with Jim Carroll.

Willie Guy Rainey (aka Scoot)- Died 8-23-1983 in College Park, GA, U.S. ( Blues ) Born 4-17-1901 in Calhoun County, AL, U.S. - Sang and played organ, banjo, mandolin, guitar and fiddle - (He did, "Temper Blues" and "Somebody's Calling My Name").

The Phantom (Jerry Lott) - Died 9-4-1983 ( Rock ) Born 1-30-1938 in Pritchard, AL, U.S. - (He did, "Love Me" and "Whisper Your Love").

Lester Bihari (Lester Louis Bihari) - Died 9-9-1983 - Born 5-12-1912 in Pottstown, PA, U.S. - Co-founder of Modern Records which recorded artists such as B.B. King, Hadda Brooks, John Lee Hooker, Lowell Fulson, Elmore James, Etta James and Lightnin' Hopkins - Blues Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Willie Bobo (William Correa) - Died 9-15-1983 - Cancer ( Latin - Jazz - R&B ) Born 2-28-1934 in  Spanish Harlem, New York City, N.Y., U.S. -  (He did, "Spanish Grease" and "Fried Neck Bones And Some Home Fries") - Worked with Tito Puente, Miles Davis, Cannonball Adderley, Herbie Hancock, Wes Montgomery and Mary Lou Williams.

Johnny Hartman (John Maurice Hartman) - Died 9-15-1983 in New York, NY., U.S. ( Jazz - Pop ) Born 7-3-1923 in Chicago, IL, U.S. - Singer - Worked with Earl Hines, John Coltrane, Howard McGhee and The Dizzy Gillespie Big Band.

Prince Far I (aka King Cry-Cry) (Michael Williams) - Died 9-15-1983 in Kingston, Jamaica - Shot ( Reggae) Born circa 1944 in Spanish Town, Jamaica - (He did, "King of Kings" and "Moses, Moses").

Big Fletchit (Owen Campbell) - Died 9-15-1983 in Duesseldorf, Germany - Born 5-16-1916 in Colon, Panama - Drummer - Worked with  The George Maycock Quintett, Chick Combo and The Panorama Trio.

Roy Milton - Died 9-18-1983 ( Blues ) Born 7-31-1907 in Wynnewood, OK, U.S. - (He did, "R.M. Blues") Was the drummer and leader of The Solid Senders (They did, "Milton's Boogie" and "True Blues").

George Leaner (George W. Leaner) - Died 9-18-1983 in Chicago, IL, U.S. - Born 6-1-1917 in Mississippi, U.S. - Founder of One-derful Records (The Five Du-Tones, McKinley Mitchell and Betty Everett) and Mar-V-Lus Records (Alvin Cash, Josephine Taylor and The Blenders) - Brother of record label owner, Ernie Leaner.

Bruno Frenzel - Died 9-21-1983 ( Rock ) Born 6-19-1944 - Played guitar - Was a member of Birth Control.

Dave Gardner - Died 9-22-1983 - Heart attack ( Pop ) Born 6-11-1926 in Jackson TN, U.S. - Singer (He did, "White Silver Sands") - He also recorded 6 comedy albums as "Brother Dave".

George Harmonica Smith (aka Harmonica King, Little Walter Jr.,  Little George Smith, George Allen  and Big Walter) - Died 10-2-1983  ( Blues ) Born 4-22-1924 in Helena, AR, U.S. - (He did, "Telephone Blues" and "Blues in the Dark") - Was a member of The Jackson Jubilee Singers, The Southside Blues Band, Bacon Fat  and The Muddy Waters Band.

George Liberace - Died 10-16-1983 in Las Vegas, Nevada, U.S. - Leukemia - Born 7-31-1911 in Menasha, Wisconsin, U.S. - Played violin - (He did remakes of, "I Hear You Knocking" and "I'm Walkin'") - Worked with his brother, pianist Liberace.

Merle Travis (Merle Robert Travis) - Died 10-20-1983 in Tahlequah, OK, U.S. - Heart failure ( Country ) Born 11-29-1917 in Rosewood, KY, U.S. - Singer, songwriter and guitarist - (Wrote, "Smoke, Smoke, Smoke That Cigarette" and "Sixteen Tons") - Designed the 1st solid body electric guitar - Country Music Hall Of Fame Inductee, Nashville Songwriters Hall Of Fame Inductee and Kentucky Music Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Keith Barrow - Died 10-22-1983 - A.I.D.S. ( Gospel ) Born 9-27-1954 - (He did, "No One Ever Cared (Like You) " and "Jesus Is On The Mainline").

Annelle Zingarelli - Died 10-23-1983 - Heroin overdose ( Punk ) She was 22 years old - Singer - Was a member of NBJ (Nazi Bitch And The Jews) (They did, "Dead Porker").

Irving Szathmary (Isadore Szathmary) - Died 10-29-1983 in London, England ( Jazz ) Born 10-30-1907 in Quincy, Mass., U.S. - Pianist - (He co-wrote, "Leave It To Love" and wrote the theme for TV's, "Get Smart") - Was a member of The Szathmary Syncopators - Was an arranger for Benny Goodman, Emery Deutsch, Artie Shaw, Paul Whiteman and Jack Teagarden - Brother of comedian, Bill Dana.

Little James Booker (James Carroll Booker III) - Died 11-8-1983 in New Orleans, LA, U.S. - Heart and lung failure ( Gospel - Blues ) Born 12-17-1939 in New Orleans, LA, U.S. - Keyboardist and singer - (He did, "Doing The Hambone" and "Gonzo") - Led Booker Boy And The Rhythmaires - Worked with Lloyd Price, Aretha Franklin, Ringo Starr, The Doobie Brothers and B. B. King - Louisiana Blues Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Preston Jackson (James Preston McDonald) - Died 11-12-1983 ( Jazz ) Born 1-3-1902 in New Orleans, LA, U.S. - Trombonist - Was the leader of Preston Jackson And His Uptown Band - Worked with Richard M. Jones, Al Simone, Jimmy Noone, Eli Rice, Johnny Dodds, Louis Armstrong and others.

Carolyn Leigh - Died 11-19-1983 in New York, NY, U.S. - Born 8-21-1926 in New York, NY, U.S. - Lyricist - (Co-wrote, "The Best Is Yet To Come" and "Witchcraft") - Helped write the movie scores for The Cardinal and Father Goose - Collaborated with Cy Coleman and Moose Charlap -  Songwriters Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Tom Evans - Died 11-23-1983 - Hanged himself ( Rock ) Born 6-5-1947 in Liverpool, England - Was a member of Badfinger (They recorded, "Come And Get It" and "No Matter What").

Johnny Wyatt - Died 12-?-1983 ( Soul ) Born 10-6-1938 in Taxacali, TX, U.S. - Was a member of Rochelle And The Candles (They did, "Once Upon A Time" and "So Far Away") and Johnny And The Expressions (They did, "Something I Want To Tell You").

Irving Taylor (Irving Goldberg) - Died 12-3-1983 in Westlake Village, Los Angeles, CA, U.S. - Born 4-8-1914 in Brooklyn, NY, U.S. - Songwriter - (Wrote Edd Byrnes', "Kookie, Kookie, Lend Me Your Comb" and co-wrote Dean Martin's, "Everybody Loves Somebody") - Wrote music for movies and TV - Founded Kiss Music - Husband of dancer and actress, Katharine Snell.

Kamil Behounek - Died 12-9-1983 in Bonn, Germany ( Swing ) Born 3-29-1916 in Blatna, Czechoslovakia (at the time Austro-Hungary) - Composer and accordion player for Blue Music, Bohemian Boys and Orchestr Karla Vlacha - Considered to be a swing pioneer in Czechoslovakia (He did, "Cvrcek Muzikant", "Liska A Vrana" and "Trubadur").

Gene Bricker (Gene J. Bricker ) - Died 12-10-1983 ( Doo-Wop ) Tenor singer - Was a member of The Marcels (They did, "Blue Moon" and "Goodbye To Love").

Marshall Brown - Died 12-13-1983 in New York, NY, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 12-21-1920 in Framingham, MS, U.S. - Played trombone - Worked with Ruby Braff, Bobby Hackett and Pee Wee Russell.

Jimmy Nolen - Died 12-18-1983 in Atlanta, GA, U.S. - Heart attack ( Blues - Soul ) Born 4-3-1934 in Oklahoma City, OK, U.S. - Was a member of All The Kings Men - Worked  with James Brown, Johnny Otis and Chuck Higgins.

Joe Carroll (Joseph Marcus Fischer) - Died 12-18-1983 in San Francisco, CA, U.S. ( Jazz ) Played bass and keyboards - Born in Los Angeles, CA, U.S. - Worked with The Great American Music Band, Red Norvo and The David Grisman Quintet.

Dan Doyle - Died 12-25-1983 ( Jazz - Pop ) Played saxophone - Was a member of The Brose Walsh Band.

Walter Scott (Walter Northeis Jr.) Died 12-27-1983 - Shot by his neighbor ( Rock ) Born 2-7-1943 - Was a member of Bob Kuban And The In-Men (They did, "The Cheater").

Dennis Wilson - Died 12-28-1983 - Drowned ( Surf Rock ) Born 12-4-1944 in Inglewood, California, U.S. - Was a singer and drummer for The Beach Boys (They did, "I Get Around" and "Good Vibrations") - Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Inductee.

1984

Jim Dicks - Died 1984 ( Pop ) Drummer, singer and bassist - Was a member of Sailor (They did, "Play That Song Forever" and "I Looked Around You").

Sonny Woods - Died 1984 ( Doo-Wop - R&B ) Was a member of The Royals / Midnighters.

Paul Pijman - Died 1984 ( Prog Rock ) Keyboardist - Was a member of Tamalone (They did, "Homage To Life" and "Triangle Tune").

Oijwind Karlsson - Died 1984 ( Pop ) Born 1937 - Played accordion and vibes Was a member of Oijwinds.

Jim Daniels - Died 1984 in Paris, France - Electrocuted during soundcheck ( Rock ) Bassist - Worked with Action Bullet.

Sterling St. Jacques - Died 1984 - A.I.D.S. ( Disco ) Singer, actor and dancer - (He sang, "Mr. Moonlight") - Was the son of actor, Raymond St. Jacques.

Peter Mate - Died 1984 - Suicide ( Beat - Pop ) Born 2-4-1947 - Singer, pianist and songwriter - (He wrote, "Hull az elsargult level" and "Elmegyek") - Collaborated with Istvan S. Nagy.

Ernest "Big Boy" Myles - Died 1984 in New York, U.S. ( R&B ) Born 1933 in New Orleans, LA, U.S. - Singer and trombonist - (He did, "You're Gonna Come Crying" and "She's So Fine") - Was a member of Sha-Weez (They did, "Cha-Paka-Sha-Wees" and "No One To Love Me") and Sugar Boy And His Cane Cutters (They did, "I Don't Know What I'll Do" and "Jock-a-Mo").

Alvin Kaleolani Isaacs Sr. - Died 1984 - Born 1904 - Composer, singer, musician (He did, "No Huhu" and "Ho'omalimali") - Was a member of The K.M.M. Syncopators, The Royal Hawaiians and Alvin Kaleolani & The Royal Polynesians - Hawaiian Music Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Gyllies Simon - Died 1984 ( Rock ) Worked with The Daryl Cotton Band, The Imports and Jo Jo Zep And The Falcons.

J.P. Sauceman (John Paul Sauceman) - Died 1984 ( Bluegrass ) Born 1926 - He was one of The Sauceman Brothers (They did, "Little birdie" and "Pretty Polly") and The Hillbilly Ramblers - Worked with Carl Butler, Joe Stuart and Tater Tate.

Jack Gallupe - Died 1984 ( Rock ) Played guitar - Was a member of The Seeds (not the Sky Saxon's Seeds) who changed their name to The Ceeds then to Maibe Handle and then to The Broadway Muse And Shell Band.

Mike Brock (aka Mite Vomit and Mike Vomit) - Died 1984 ( Punk ) Singer - Was a member of The Vomit Pigs Make-Believe Blues Boobs Band later shortened to The Vomit Pigs (They did, "Baby's Playin' Games" and "Too Much Porno") and still later shorteneing their name again to The VPs.

Bob Schmidtke - 1984 ( Rock ) Guitarist and singer - Was a member of The Tayles (They did, "Funny Paper Sam" and "She Made Me That Way").

Doug Wray - Died 1984 - Heart attack ( Rock ) Born 7-4-1933 in Dunn North Carolina, U.S. - Drummer - (He did, "Goosebumps") - Was a member of Lucky Wray And The Lazy Pine Wranglers, Lucky Wray And The Palomino Ranch Hands and Link Wray And The Ray-Men (They did, "Rumble" and "Jack The Ripper") - Worked with Jimmy Dean.

John Mehegan - Died 1984 ( Jazz ) Born 6-6-1920 in Wethersfield, CN, U.S. - Pianist - Was a  jazz critic for The New York Herald Tribune and wrote the books, The Jazz Improvisation series.

Henry Wicks - Died 1-?-1984 ( Doo-Wop - R&B ) Born 6-22-1924 - Was a pianist for The Delta Southernaires.

Alexis Korner (Alexis Andrew Nicholas Koerner) - Father of British Blues - Died 1-1-1984 in Westminster, London, England - Lung cancer ( R&B ) Born 4-19-1928 in Paris, France - Singer and guitarist - Was a member of Chris Barber's Jazz Band, Alexis Korner Skiffle Group, Ken Colyer Jazz Group, CCS, Rocket 88 and Blues Incorporated.

Alasdair Clayre (Alasdair George S. Clayre ) - Died 1-10-1984 - Jumped in front of a train ( Folk ) Born 10-9-1935 in Southampton, Hampshire, England - Singer, songwriter and author - (He did, "A Cold Wind Blows" and "Old Man's Song") - His songs have been recorded by Vashti Bunyan, Judy Collins and Joan Baez - He had been married to author, Felicity Bryan.

Stephen "Tebes" Douglass - Died 1-12-1984 - Car crash ( Country Rock ) Born 8-11-1950 in Columbus OH, U.S. - Was a keyboardist for McGuffey Lane ("Long Time Lovin' You" and "Start It All Over").

Johnny Jano (Johnny Janot) - Died 1-16-1984 - Heart attack ( Cajun - Rockabilly ) Born 1933 in Eunice, Louisiana, U.S. - Singer and guitarist (He did,"Rocking And Rolling" and "I'd Make A Good Man For You") Worked with Manson Manuel.

Jackie Wilson (Jack Leroy Wilson) - Died 1-21-1984 in Mount Holly, NJ, U.S. - Suffered a massive heart attack and stroke on stage in 1975 and was in a coma until he died ( R&B - Soul - Gospel ) Born 6-9-1934 in Detroit, Michigan, U.S. - Singer - (He did, "Lonely Teardrops" and "Night") - Was a member of The Ever Ready Gospel Singers Group and  Billy Ward And The Dominoes (They sang, "St. Therese Of The Roses") - Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Al Dexter (Clarence Albert Poindexter) - Died 1-28-1984 in Lewisville, TX, U.S. ( Country ) Born 5-4-1905 in Jacksonville, TX, U.S. - Singer, guitarist and songwriter - (He did, "Pistol Packin' Mama") and "So Long Pal") - Nashville Songwriters Hall Of Fame Inductee.

C.C. "Peg" Richardson (Clarence Clifford Richardson) - Died 1-30-1984 in Kanawha City, WV, U.S. ( Blues - Gospel ) Born 12-18-1918 in Sumter, South Carolina, U.S. - Guitarist and singer - (Recorded, "Don't Do It" and "Tell Me What More Can Jesus Do").

Candy Givens - Died 1-30-1984 - Drowned in a hot tub on drugs ( Rock ) Born 12-9-1946 in Iowa, U.S. - Singer, harmonica player and keyboardist - Was a member of Zephyr (They did, "I Am Not Surprised" and "Chasing Clouds") - Worked with Tommy Bolin.

Luke Kelly - Died 1-30-1984 - Brain tumor ( Folk ) Born 11-17-1940 in Dublin - Singer and banjo player (He did, "The Rocky Road To Dublin" and "The Brown And The Yellow Ale") - Was a member of The Dubliners.

Michael Harrington - Died 1-31-1984 - Heart problems ( Rock ) He was 29 years old - Singer - Was a member of Wormwood Scrubs.

Paul Gardiner - Died 2-4-1984 - Heroin overdose ( Rock ) Born 1955 - (He did a version of, "Venus In Furs") - Was the bassist for Gary Numan's Tubeway Army (They did, "Are Friends Electric?" and "Cars").

Vance "Tiny" Powell - Died 2-4-1984  - Cirrossis of the liver ( Gospel - Blues ) Born 5-17-1922 in Warren, Arkansas, U.S. - (He did, "My Time After While") - Was a member of The Paramount Singers and The Golden Harps - Worked with The Five Blind Boys Of Mississippi.

Ethel Merman (Ethel Agnes Zimmermann) - Died 2-15-1984 in New York, NY, U.S. ( Swing - Pop - Vaudeville ) Born 1-16-1908 in New York, NY, Astoria, Queens, U.S. - (She did, "I Got Rhythm" and "There's No Business Like Show Business") - She worked with Artie Shaw & His Orchestra, Sarah Vaughan, Billie Holiday and Peggy Lee.

Andrew "Blueblood" McMahon - Died 2-17-1984  ( Blues ) Born 4-12-1926 in Delhi, Louisiana, U.S. - Singer, keyboardist and bassist - (He did, "Baby Child" and "Fast As My Legs Can Go") - Worked with Howlin' Wolf.

Ina Ray Hutton - Died 2-21-1984 ( Jazz ) Singer and bandleader - She led Ina Ray Hutton And Her Melodears (They recorded, "Ring Dem Bells" and "Truckin'") - Worked with Dolly Dawn (They recorded, "You're a Sweetheart" and "Make Me Know It") - She was married to trumpeter Randy Brooks.

Leslie York - Died 2-21-1984 ( Country ) Born 8-23-1917 in Louisa, KY, U.S. - Singer and guitarist - He was half of The York Brothers(They did, "Going Home" and "Mountain Rosa Lee").

Ollie McLaughlin - Died 2-26-1984 - Heart failure ( Rock ) Born 3-24-1925 - Produced  Lost Nation, Dorothy Ashby and Barbara Lewis.

Joey Vann (Joseph Canzano)- Died 2-28-1984 - Heart attack ( Rock ) Born 4-3-1943 - Was a member of The Utopians, The Parisiens and The Duprees (They sang, "You Belong To Me").

Ethel Azama - Died 3-?-1984 in Honolulu, Hawaii, U.S. - Brain aneurysm ( Jazz - Hawaiian ) Born 8-28-1934 in Honolulu, Hawaii - Singer - (She did, "Ringo Oiwake" and "You're So Bad For Me") - Worked with Edd Shonk and Arthur Lyman.

Roy Hall - Died 3-3-1984 - Heart attack ( Rockabilly - Rock ) Born 1-6-1907 in Big Stone Gap, VA, U.S. - (He did, "You Ruined My Blue Suede Shoes" and "My Girl and His Girl").

Shug Fisher (George Clinton Fisher) - Died 3-16-1984 in Woodland Hills, CA, U.S. - Illness ( Country ) Born 9-26-1907 in Grady County, OK, U.S. - Sang and played mandolin, fiddle and guitar - (He wrote, "Out On The Open Range" and "Ridin' Down To Santa Fe") - Worked with The Hollywood Hillbillies, Sons Of The Pioneers, Ken Curtis and Red Foley.

Anita Boyer - Died 3-17-1984 ( Big Band ) Singer - Worked with  Tommy Dorsey, Artie Shaw, Jerry Wald, Leo Reisman, Jimmy Dorsey and Harry James - She was married to saxophonist, Bobby Dukoff.

Joseph Spence - Died 3-18-1984 in Nassau, Bahamas ( Folk ) Born 8-?-1910 in Andros, Bahamas - Singer and guitarist.

Paul Francis Webster - Died 3-22-1984 in Beverly Hills, California, U.S. - Born 12-20-1907 in Kansas City, MO, U.S. - Songwriter - (He co-wrote, "I Got It Bad (And That Ain't Good)" and "The Shadow Of Your Smile") - Worked with Sammy Fain, Dimitri Tiomkin, Lew Pollack, John Jacob Loeb and William Scotti - Songwriters Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Tom Jans - Died 3-25-1984 ( Rock ) Born 2-9-1949 (He did,"Once Before I Die" and "Good God, I'm Feeling Fine") Worked with Jeff Porcaro, Hoyt Axton, Valerie Carter and Tom  Snow.

Timmy Shaw - Died 3-29-1984 - Throat cancer ( R&B ) (He had a hit with, "Gonna Send You Back To Georgia (A City Slick)").

Marvin Gaye (Marvin Pentz Gay Jr.) - Died 4-1-1984 in Los Angeles, CA, U.S. - Shot by his father ( Soul - R&B ) Born 4-2-1939 in Washington, D.C., U.S. - Singer, drummer, songwriter and producer - (He did, "Let's Get It On" and "How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You)") - Was a member of The DC Tones, The Marquees ("Wyatt Earp"), The Moonglows ("Mama Loocie") -  Worked with The Miracles, The Contours, Martha And The Vandellas, The Marvelettes, Stevie Wonder and Tammi Terrell ("Ain't No Mountain High Enough" and "You're All I Need To Get By") - Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Ral Donner (Ralph Stuart Donner)- Died 4-6-1984 - Lung cancer ( Pop ) Born 2-10-1943 in Chicago, Illinois, U.S. - (Sang, "You Don't Know What You've Got Until You Lose It" and "Girl Of My Best Friend").

Jimmy Kennedy - Died 4-6-1984 in Cheltenham, England - Born 7-20-1902 in Omagh, Northern Ireland - Songwriter and lyricist - (Co-wrote, "Teddy Bears' Picnic" and "Red Sails In The Sunset") - He is credited with co-writing, "Hokey Cokey" which became "The Hokey Pokey" which is disputed - He wrote about 2000 songs - Songwriter's Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Fred Robinson - Died 4-11-1984 ( Jazz ) Born 2-20-1901 - Played Trombone - Worked with Louis Armstrong, The Carroll Dickerson's Orchestra, Fletcher Henderson, Jelly Roll Morton, Cab Calloway and Noble Sissle.

Tommy Cooper - Died 4-15-1984 - Collapsed on stage ( Comedian ) Born 3-9-1922 in CAE Philly, South Wales - (He did, "Don't Jump Off The Roof Dad" and "How Come There's No Dog Day").

Machito (Francisco Raul Gutierrez Grillo) - Died 4-15-1984 in London, England - Stroke while playing a gig ( Salsa - Mambo - Jazz ) Born 12-3-1909 in Havana, Cuba -  Singer, conductor and maraca player - Was a member of The Afro-Cubans - Worked with La Estrella Habanera and Xavier Cugat.

Mabel Mercer - Died 4-20-1984 in Pittsfield, MA, U.S. ( Cabaret - Jazz ) Born 2-3-1900 in Burton upon Trent, Staffordshire, England - Singer - Worked with Bobby Short - She was presented The Presidential Medal Of Freedom by President Ronald Reagan - Daughter of jazz singer, Warren Mercer Sr.

Red Garland (William M. Garland) - Died 4-23-1984 ( Jazz ) Born 5-13-1923 in Dallas, TX, U.S. - Pianist - (He did, "Prelude Blues" and "Bohemian Blues") - Worked with Miles Davis, Charlie Parker, Lester Young, Coleman Hawkins and Roy Eldridge.

Juan Tizol - Died 4-23-1984 in Inglewood, CA, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 1-22-1900 in San Juan, Puerto Rico - Played trombone - (He wrote,"Perdido" and "Caravan") - Worked with Duke Ellington, Harry James and The Cottonpickers.

Count Basie (William James Basie) - Died 4-26-1984 in Hollywood, FL, U.S. - Cancer ( Jazz - Blues ) Born 8-21-1904 in Red Bank, New Jersey, U.S. - Pianist, organisy and composer - (He recorded, "Everyday I Have The Blues" with Joe Williams) - Was the leader of The Count Basie Orchestra ("One O'clock Jump" and "Jumpin At The Woodside") - Was a member of Walter Page's Blue Devils and Bennie Moten's band.

Barry Gray - Died 4-26-1984 in Guernsey, Channel Islands, UK - Born 7-18-1908 in Blackburn, Lancashire, England - Pianist and composer - Worked with Gerry Anderson - Wrote music for the puppet shows, The Adventures Of Twizzle and Thunderbirds and also for TV's, UFO and Space:1999.

Z.Z. Hill (Azell Hill) - Died 4-27-1984 in Dallas, TX - Heart attack after a car accident ( Soul - Blues - Disco - R&B ) Born 9-30-1935 in Naples, Texas, U.S. - Singer - (He did, "Down Home Blues" and "Cheatin' In The Next Room") - Worked with The Spiritual Five.

Whispering Smith (Moses Smith) - Died 4-28-1984 in Baton Rouge, LA, U.S. ( Blues ) Born 1-25-1932 in Union Church, Mississippi, U.S. - Sang and played harmonica - (He did, "A Thousand Miles From Nowhere" and "Texas Flood") - Worked with Lightnin' Slim and Silas Hogan - Louisiana Blues Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Gordon Jenkins - Died 5-1-1984 ( Jazz ) Born 5-12-1910 in Webster Groves, MO, U.S. - Pianist, orchestra leader and arranger - (Had a hit with, "Goodnight Irene") - He helped get The Weavers a recording contract - Worked with  Isham Jones, Benny Goodman,  Dick Haymes, Nat King Cole, Frank Sinatra and Lennie Hayton

Nudie Cohn (Nuta Kotlyarenko) - Died 5-9-1984 - Born 12-15-1902 in Kiev, Russia (now Ukraine)- Clothing Designer and mandolin player - Did "Nudie" suits for Elvis Presley, Hank Williams, ZZ Top,  Elton John, John Lennon and many, many other musicians - Recorded with Dusty Rhodes and Tex Williams.

Gordon Sinclair - Died 5-17-1984 ( DJ ) Born 6-3-1900 - (He had a hit with the spoken word record, "The Americans") - Was a DJ for for The Canadian Broadcasting Company.

Jack Vaughn - Died 5-20-1984 ( Pop ) Guitarist - Was a member of of The Norman Petty Trio (They did,"Mood Indigo" and "Almost Paradise") Worked with Buddy Holly.

Onie Wheeler - Died 5-26-1984 - Heart attack on stage ( Country - Bluegrass )  Born 11-10-1921 in Senath, Missouri, U.S. - Played guitar and harmonica - (He did, "Run 'Em Off" and "John's Been Shucking My Corn") - Was a member of The Ozark Cowboys - Father of singer, Karen Wheeler.

Santo Pecora (Santo Joseph Pecoraro) - Died 5-29-1984 in New Orleans, LA, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 3-21-1902 in New Orleans, LA, U.S. - Played trombone - He worked with Pete Fountain, Monk Hazel, Johnny De Droit, Sharkey Bonano and Leon Ropollo.

Nate Nelson (Nathaniel Nelson) - Died 6-1-1984 in Boston, MA, U.S. - Heart attack ( Doo-Wop - R&B ) Born 4-10-1932 in Chicago, IL, U.S. - Singer - Was a member of The Flamingos (They sang, "I Only Have Eyes For You" and "I'll Be Home") - Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Arturo Durazo - Died 6-10-1984 ( Rock ) Guitarist - Was a member of Los Apson Boys.

Alexander Davydov - Died 6-12-1984 - Overdose ( Rock ) Born 3-1-1958 - Worked with The Strannye Igry.

Antonio Variacoes (Antonio Joaquim Rodrigues Ribeiro) - Died 6-13-1984 Lisbon, Portugal - Bilateral bronchial pneumonia ( pop - Folk - Rock ) Born 12-3-1944 in Lugar do Pilar, Fiscal, Braga, Portugal - Singer - (He did, "Estou Alem" and "Cancao de Engate").

Webster Booth (Leslie Webster Booth ) - Died 6-21-1984 in Llandudno, Wales ( Pop - Opera ) Born 1-21-1902 in Birmingham, England - Singer - He was half of the duo, Ziegler And Booth with his wife, Anne Ziegler (They did, "Only A Rose") - Worked with the D'Oyly Carte Opera Company.

Frank Butler - Died 6-24-1984 in Ventura, CA, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 2-18-1928 in Kansas City, MO, U.S. - Drummer - Worked with Miles Davis, John Coltrane, Art Pepper and Jimmy Witherspoon.

Guy McDonough (Guy Gillis McDonough) - Died 6-24-1984 in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia - Viral pneumonia ( Rock ) Born 1955 - Singer and guitarist - Was a member of Spiff Rouch, The Flatheads and Australian Crawl (They did, "Errol" and "Oh No Not You Again").

Milan Chladil - Died 6-28-1984 in Prague, Czechoslovakia ( Pop - Swing Sweet ) Born 2-8-1931 in Brno, Czechoslovakia - Singer, mostly popular in a duo with Yvetta Simonova (They did, "My Dva A Cas", "Sentimentalni" and "O Nas Dvou").

Jimmie Spheeris - Died 7-4-1984 - Killed by a drunk driver ( Rock ) Born 11-5-1949 (He did,"Hold Tight" and "I Am The Mercury") Worked with The Bee's Knees, Pamela Polland and Kathy Smith.

Christine McIntyre - Died 7-8-1984 - Cancer ( Swing - Pop ) Born 4-16-1911 in Nogales, AZ, U.S. Actress who sang "Jo Jo From Mexico" in the film, The Rangers Roundup and "I'll Take Romance" to Shemp Howard in The Three Stooges short, Open Season For Saps.

Philippe Wynne (Philip Walker) - Died 7-14-1984 in Oakland, CA, U.S. - Died on stage, heart attack ( Soul ) Born 4-3-1941 in Detroit, MI, U.S. - Was a singer for The Detroit Spinners (They did, "Could It Be I'm Falling In Love" and "Rubberband Man") - Worked with The Pacesetters, Funkadelic and The JB's.

German Freytes - Found dead in his apartment 7-19-1984 in Caracas, Venezuela - Heart attack ( Pop ) Born 5-28-1943 in Los Teques, Miranda State, Venezuela - Singer, DJ, actor and TV host - (He did, "Vendrán Nuevos Dias" (There Will Come New Days) ) - Appeared on TV's, "Yo Era Un Niño" (I Was A Boy), and "De Que Color Es La Piel de Dios" (That Color Is The Skin Of God).

Michael Osborne - Died 7-21-1984 - Car crash ( Metal ) Born 12-22-1949 - Was a guitarist for Axe (They did,"Now Or Never" and "I Think You'll Remember Tonight").

Big Mama Thornton (Willie Mae Thornton) - Died 7-25-1984 - Heart and liver problems( R&B ) Born 12-11-1926 in Montgomery, Alabama, U.S. (She did, "Ball n' Chain" and was the first to record, "Hound Dog") Blues Foundation's Hall of Fame Inductee.

Rev. C.L. Franklin (Clarence Le Vaughn Franklin) - Died 7-27-1984 in Detroit, MI, U.S. - Heart failure, he had been in a coma since 1979 after being shot by burglars (Gospel ) Born 1-22-1915 in Sunflower, MS, U.S. - Singer - Father of Aretha Franklin.

Fred Waring (Fredrick Malcolm Waring) - America's Singing Master - Died 7-29-1984 in Stage College, PA, U.S. - Stroke - Born 6-9-1900 in Tyrone, PA, U.S. - Musician and bandleader - (He wrote, "My America") - Led The Waring-McClintock Snap Orchestra, Fred Waring's Banjo Orchestra, Fred Waring And His Pennsylvanians (They did, "Button Up Your Overcoat" and "You Gotta Be A Football Hero") and Fred Waring And His Young Pennsylvanians .

Babe Russin (Irving Russin) - Died 8-4-1984 in Los Angeles, CA, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 6-18-1911 in Pittsburgh, PA, U.S. - Saxophonist - Worked with Louis Armstrong, Bunny Berigan and Charlie Barnet - He was married to lyricist, Lillian Mattis.

Tuts Washington (Isidore Washington) (aka Papa Yellow) - Died 8-5-1984 in New Orleans, LA, U.S. -  While performing at the New Orleans World's Fair ( Blues ) Born 1-24-1907 in New Orleans, LA, U.S. - Pianist (He did,"Arkansas Blues" and "Tee-Nah-Nah") Worked with Kid Rena, Papa Celestin and Kid Punch Miller.

Richard Burton (Richard Walter Jenkins, Jr.) - Died 8-5-1984 - Cerebral hemorrhage ( Actor ) Born 11-19-1925 in Pontrhydfen, South Wales (He charted with,"Married Man") He worked with Jeff Wayne on his War Of The Worlds album - He was previously married to Elizabeth Taylor.

"Little" Esther Phillips (Esther May Jones) - Died 8-7-1984 - Kidney and liver failure ( Jazz - R&B - Disco ) Born 12-23-1935 in Galveston, Texas, U.S. - Singer and piano player (Recorded, "What A Difference A Day Makes" and "Release Me").

Ann Christy (Christiane Leenaerts) - Died 8-7-1984 in Meise, Belgium - Cancer ( Pop ) Born 9-22-1945 in Antwerp, Belgium - Singer (She did, "De roos" (The Rose) and "Dag Vreemde Man" (Hello Strange Man)) - Worked with The Adams Orchestra - She was married to drummer, Marc Hoyois.

Frank Floyd - Died 8-7-1984  ( Blues ) Born 10-11-1908 in Toccopola, Mississippi, U.S. - (He recorded, "Married Man's Blues" and "From Memphis To New Orleans").

Percy Mayfield - Died 8-11-1984 - Heart attack ( Blues ) Born 8-12-1920 in Minden, LA, U.S. - Singer and songwriter - (He wrote, "Hit The Road, Jack" and recorded, "Please Send Me Someone To Love").

Pat McAuley (Patrick McAuley) (aka John McAuley) - Died 8-11-1984 in Donegal, Ireland - Drowned ( Rock ) Born 3-17-1944 in Coleraine, Northern Ireland - Drummer and keyboardist - Was a member of Them and The Other Them who became The Belfast Gypsies (They did, "People Let's Freak Out" and "Portland Town")  - Worked with Kim Fowley.

Lenny Breau (Leonard Breau) - Died 8-12-1984 - Strangled and found in a roof top swimming pool ( Jazz - Country - Pop - Blues ) Born 8-5-1941  in Auburn, ME, U.S. - (He did, "Meanwhile Back In L.A." and "But Beautiful #2").

Bobo Jenkins (John Pickens Jenkins) - Died 8-14-1984 in Detroit, MI, U.S. - Illness ( Blues ) Born 1-7-1916 in Forkland, Alabama, U.S. - Singer and guitarist - (He did, "Democrat Blues" and "Tell Me Where You Stayed Last Night").

Norman Petty - Died 8-15-1984 - Leukemia ( Producer ) Born 5-25-1927 in Clovis, New Mexico, U.S.  - Played organ - Was the leader of The Norman Petty Trio (They did, "Mood Indigo" and "Almost Paradise") - Produced Buddy Holly And The Crickets.

Hammie Nixon (Hammie Nickerson)  - Died 8-17-1984 in Jackson, TN, U.S. ( Blues ) Born 1-22-1908 in Brownsville, Tennessee, U.S. - Played harmonica, kazoo, guitar and jug - (He did, "Down South Blues" and "Stop That Thing") - Worked with Sleepy John Estes, Charlie Pickett, The Beale Street Jug Band, Lee Green, Little Buddy Doyle and Son Bonds.

Arthur Schwartz - Died 9-?-1984 in Kintnersville, PA, U.S. - Born 11-25-1900 Brooklyn, NY, U.S. - Was a composer and producer and played harmonica and piano - (He co-wrote, "Dancing In The Dark" and "That's Entertainment") - Worked with  Howard Dietz - Songwriters Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Tommy Evans (Thomas W. Evans) - Died 9-?-1984 in New York, NY, U.S. ( Gospel - R&B ) Born 9-21-1927 in Wayne County, Michigan, U.S. - Singer - Worked with The Unity Baptist Five, The Carols, (They did, "Drink Gin" and "Please Believe In Me"), The Drifters and The Ravens.

Mike Riley - Died 9-2-1984 ( Jazz ) Born 1-5-1904 or 1907 in either in Brooklyn, NY, U.S. or in Massachusetts, U.S. - Played trumpet and trombone - (Co-wrote, "The Music Goes Round And Round") - Worked with Jimmy Durante and Eddie Farley.

Bessie Jones - Died 9-4-1984 in Brunswick, GA, U.S. ( Folk - Gospel ) Born 2-8-1902 in Smithville, GA, U.S. - Singer - (She did, "Turn My Body Round" and "May Be The Last Time, I Don't Know") - Was a member of The Georgia Sea Island Singers.

Ernest Tubb (Ernest Dale Tubb) - Died 9-6-1984 in Nashville, TN, U.S. ( Country ) Born 2-9-1914 in Crisp, Texas, U.S. - Singer and songwriter - (He did, "Walking The Floor Over You" and "Missing In Action") - Was the leader of Ernest Tubb And His Texas Troubadours - Country Music Hall Of Fame Inductee and Nashville Songwriters Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Trummy Young (James Osborne Young) - Died 9-10-1984 in San Jose, CA, U.S. - Cerebral hemorrhage ( Swing ) Born 1-12-1912 in Savannah, GA, U.S. - Trumpeter and trombonist - (Co-wrote, "T'ain't What You Do (It's The Way That You Do It)") - Worked with Jimmie Lunceford's Orchestra ("Margie"), Earl Hines, Sy Oliver and The Louis Armstrong All-Stars.

Titus Turner - Died 9-13-1984 in Atlanta, GA, U.S. ( R&B ) Born 5-11-1933 in Atlanta, GA, U.S. - Singer and composer - (He did, "We Told You Not To Marry", "Sound-Off" and co-wrote,"Leave My Kitten Alone").

Yuri Vizbor - Died 9-19-1984 ( Folk ) Born 1934 in in Moscow, Russia - Singer, guitarist and poet - (He did, "Solnishko Lesnoe" and "Seryoga Sanin").

Steve Goodman - Died 9-20-1984 - Leukemia ( Folk ) Born 7-25-1948 Chicago, Illinois, U.S. - (Wrote, "The City of New Orleans" which Arlo Guthrie later covered).

Shelly Manne (Sheldon Manne) - Died 9-26-1984 in Los Angeles, CA, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 6-11-1920 in New York, NY, U.S. - Saxophonist then a drummer - Worked with Woody Herman, Will Bradley, Coleman Hawkins ("The Man I Love"), Raymond Scott, Les Brown and Stan Kenton.

Geater Davis - Died 9-29-1984 ( R&B ) Born 1-29-1946 in Kountze, TX, U.S. - Singer (He had hits with,"Sweet Womans Love" and "Your Heart Is So Cold").

Don Reno (Donald Wesley Reno) - King of the Flat-Picking Guitarists- Died 10-16-1984 in Charlottesville, VA, U.S. ( Bluegrass ) Born 2-21-1927 in Spartanburg, SC, U.S. - Multi-instrumentalist and songwriter - Was one of The Tennessee Cutups (They did, "I'm Using My Bible For A Road Map" and "I Know You're Married") - Worked with Arthur Smith And His Crackerjacks and Bill Monroe - International Bluegrass Music Hall Of Honor Inductee.

Jiri Jelinek - Died 10-16-1984 in Prague, Czechoslovakia - Born 7-6-1922 in Tisa u Zlutic,
 Czechoslovakia - Trumpet player and singer - (He did, "Monter Vaclav" and "Motyl") - Member of The Semafor Theatre.

Alberta Hunter (aka Albeta Prime and Josephine Beatty) - Died 10-17-1984 in New York, NY, U.S. - Natural causes ( Blues - Jazz - Pop ) Born 4-1-1895 in Memphis, Tenn., U.S. - Singer - (She did, "Your Jelly Roll Is Good" and Take That Thing Away") - She worked with Fats Waller, Louis Armstrong, Sidney Bechet and Fletcher Henderson.

Joe Johnson - Died 10-10-1984 in Baltimore, MD, U.S. ( Gospel ) Born 10-15-1914 in Norfolk, VA, U.S. - Singer - Was a member of The Willing Four and The Trumpeteers (They did, "This Is A Mean World" and "Gospel Train") - Workd with The Royal Lights and The Golden Gates.

Thomas Shy Guy Douglas - Died 10-19-1984 in Nashville, TN, U.S. ( Blues ) Born 11-8-1917 in Franklin, TN, U.S. - (He did, "Monkey Doin' Woman" and "I'm Your Country Man").

Eugene "Buddy" Moss - Died 10-19-1984  ( Blues ) Born 1-26-1906 in Jewel, Georgia, U.S. - (He did, "V-8 Ford" and "When I'm Dead And Gone").

Budd Johnson (Albert J. Johnson) - Died 10-20-1984 in Kansas City, MO, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 12-14-1910 in Dallas, TX, U.S. - Saxophonist - Worked with Buddy Rich, Louis Armstrong, Horace Henderson , Benny Goodman and Count Basie.

Johnnie Lee Wills - Died 10-25-1984 in Tulsa, OK, U.S. - Heart complications ( Country ) Born 9-2-1912 in Hall County, TX, U.S. - Played banjo and  fiddle - (He did, "Rag Mop" and "Peter Cottontail") - Led Johnnie Lee Wills & All The Boys - Worked with Bob Wills And His Texas Playboys - Oklahoma Music Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Wells Kelly - Died 10-29-1984 - Choked to death on his vomit ( Rock ) Born 1949 - Was a member of Orleans (They did, "Ending Of A Song" and "Let There Be Music") and played for Meat Loaf, Bonnie Raitt, Clarence Clemons, Ian Hunter and Peter Allen .

Tasha Thomas - Died 11-8-1984 - Cancer ( Disco ) Born 1950 in Jeutyn, Alaska, U.S. - (She did, "Shoot Me (With Your Love)" and "Wake Up Morning Glory") - She sang on over 100 albums with artists like Stevie Wonder, Esther Phillips, Carly Simon, James Brown, Petula Clark and many others.

Don Addrisi (Donald James Addrisi) - Died 11-11-1984 in California, U.S. - Cancer ( Rock ) Born 12-14-1938 in Winthrop, MA, U.S. - Was a guitarist for The Addrisi Brothers (They did, "We've Got To Get It On Again" and "She's Just Laughing at Me") - Worked with The Monkees, David Briggs, Booker T. And The MG's, and The Fifth Dimension.

Keith Hudson - The Dark Prince of Reggae - Died 11-14-1984 - Lung cancer ( Reggae ) Born 3-18-1948 in Trenchtown, Jamaica - (He did, "Pick a Dub" and "Dreaded Than").

Vic Dickenson (Victor Dickenson) - Died 11-16-1984 in New York, NY, U.S. ( Swing ) Born 8-6-1906 in Xenia, OH, U.S. - Trombonist - Worked with Blanche Calloway, Claude Hopkins, Count Basie, Eddie Heywood, The Saints And Sinners and The Newport All-Stars.

Jules Bihari (aka Jules Taub) - Died 11-17-1984 in Los Angeles, CA, U.S. - Born 9-8-1913 Philadelphia, PA, U.S. - Co-founder of Modern Records which recorded artists such as B.B. King, Hadda Brooks, John Lee Hooker, Lowell Fulson, Elmore James, Etta James and Lightnin' Hopkins - Blues Hall Of Fame Inductee.

John Angelos - Died 11-24-1984 - Carbon monoxide poisoning ( Rock - R&B ) He was 36 years old - Born in Detroit, MI, U.S. - Singer and bassist - Worked with The Black And Blues Band (They did, "Some One To Love You"), The Gold Brothers, The Pink Peech Mob, Mighty Quick, The Reputations (They did, "Cry, Cry, Cry" and "Alone In The Kitchen"), The Amboy Dukes, The Heartbeats, The Slicks and The Torpedos (They did, "Pop Star").

Hypolite Charles - Died 11-29-1984 ( Jazz ) Born 4-18-1891 in Parks, LA, U.S. - Cornet player - Worked with The Excelsior Brass Band, The Silver Leaf Orchestra and The Tuxedo Brass Band.

Mann Curtis (Norman Kurtz, Sr.) - Died 12-6-1984 ( Rock Composer  - Arranger ) Born 11-15-1911 in Brooklyn, NY, U.S. (Co-wrote,"Let It Be Me").

Razzle Dingley (Nicholas Dingley) - Died 12-8-1984 in the U.S. - Car accident involving Motley Crue's Vince Neil ( Hard Rock ) Born 12-2-1963 in the Isle Of Wight, England - Was a drummer for Hanoi Rocks (They did, "Don't You Ever Leave Me" and "Back To Mystery City") .

Charlie Teagarden - Died 12-10-1984 in Las Vegas, Nev., U.S. - ( Jazz ) Born 7-19-1913 in Vernon, Texas, U.S. - Played trumpet - Was a member of  The Three T's - Worked with Ben Pollack, Red Nichols, Paul Whiteman, Frankie Trumbauer, Roger Wolfe Kahn,  Paul Whiteman, Jimmy Dorsey, Bob Crosby, Pete Fountain and his brother, Jack Teagarden.

Mal Spooner - Died 12-10-1984 - Pneumonia ( Metal ) Guitarist - Was a member of Demon (They did, "Wonderland").

Ron Tabak - Died 12-25-1984 - Motorcycle accident ( Rock - Pop ) Was the lead vocalist for Under Construction and Prism (They did, "Spaceship Superstar" and "Open Soul Surgery").

Eddie "Bongo" Brown (Edward James Brown Jr.) - Died 12-28-1984 in Los Angeles, CA, U.S. ( Soul )  Born 9-13-1932 in Clarksdale, MS, U.S. - Played congas, claves, bongos and the gourd -  Was one of The Funk Brothers - He can be heard on The Temptations's, "(I Know) I'm Losing You" and Smokey Robinson & The Miracles', "I Second That Emotion".

Leo Robin - Died 12-29-1984 in Woodland Hills, CA, U.S. - Heart failure ( Lyricist ) Born 4-6-1900 in Pittsburgh, PA, U.S. - (Co-wrote, "Beyond The Blue Horizon" and "Blue Hawaii") - Worked with Ralph Rainger, Richard Whiting and Vincent Youmans - He co-wrote songs for many movies - Songwriters Hall Of Fame Inductee.

1985

 Per-Ake Edqvist - Died 1985 ( Pop ) Born 1925 - Played drums - Was a member of Oijwinds.

Bubba Brown (John Henry Brown) - Died 1985 in Los Angeles, CA, U.S. ( Blues ) Born 12-5-1902 in Brandon, MS, U.S. - Guitarist and pianist - (He did, "Red Cross Blues" and "Big Road Blues") - Worked with Johnnie Temple, Tommy Johnson, Walter Vinson, Charlie McCoy, The Chatmon Brothers and Cary Lee Simmons.

Rocky Rossi (Roberto Rossi) - Died 1985 - Car accident ( Jazz Rock ) Singer, saxophonist and clarinetist - Was a member of Rocky's Filj (They did, "Astrocar" and "Ingrid").

Bob Sapsed - Died 1985-1986 in London, England - Motorcycle accident ( Rock ) Bassist - Worked with Love Affair and Morgan.

John Selby - Died 1985 ( Jazz ) Played saxophone and flute - Worked with Automatic Pilot.

Brian Keenan - Died 1985 - Heart attack ( Rock - Blues ) Born 1-28-1944 in New York, NY, U.S. - Drummer - Worked with The Chambers Brothers ("Time Has Come Today") and Genya Ravan ("Sit Yourself Down").

Richard Ahlert - Died 1985 - He was 63 years old - Composer - (Co-wrote, "Runnin' Out Of Fools") - Was a member of The ASCAP - His songs have been sung by Perry Como, Aretha Franklin and Elvis Costello - Husband of singer, June Alhert and son of composer, Fred Ahlert.

Allan Strain - Died 1985 ( Rock ) Bassist - Worked with The Brewery Bros.

James Carter Wilson ( Sonny Lewis) - Died 1985 ( Country ) Pianist - Worked with Johnny Cash.

Randy Monaco - Died 1985 - Heart attack or cirrhosis ( Rock ) Singer and bassist - Was a member of The Mandrake Memorial. and a version of The 1910 FruitGum Company.

Lillie Mae Glover (aka Baby Ma Rainey and Memphis Ma Rainey) - Died 1985 ( Blues ) Singer (She did, "Call Me Anything, But Call Me").

Mike Sund - Died 1985 in Omaha ( Rock ) Born 1944 - Singer and guitarist - Was a member of David Lee & The Continentals, The Classics, Little Joe & The Ramrods (They did,"B.B. Limbo" and "Yogi Twist") and The Redtops.

Michael Kerns - Died 1985 ( Rock ) Played flute and saxophone - Was a member of The Beast.

Enver Sampson Jr. - Died 1985 - Motorcycle accident ( Rock ) Singer and harmonica player - Was a member of The Minglewood Band (They did,"Price He Pays" and "Nicholson Blues").

Ricky West (Richard Allen Westfield) - Died 1985 - Illness ( Funk ) Born 5-7-1943 in Dagenham, Essex, England - Keyboardist - Was a member of Kool & The Gang (They did,"Hollywood Swinging" and "Fruitman") and North, East, South, West.

Abel DeCosta (Abel DiCosta) - Died 1985 ( R&B) Born 1929 - Worked with Ivory Joe Hunter, The Cues, Sam "The Man" Taylor, Mickey Baker, Mike Stoller and Jimmy Breedlove.

 Papa Jac (Jacinto Assunto) - Died 1-5-1985 ( Jazz ) Born 11-1-1905 in Lake Charles, LA, U.S. - Played trombone and banjo - Was a member of The Dukes Of Dixieland.

Paul Hewson - Died 1-9-1985 - Drugs ( Rock ) Born 10-25-1952 - Was a keyboardist for Marble Arch, Cruise Lane, Dragon (They did, "Joanne" and "Rain") and All-Stars.

Anton Karas - Died 1-9-1985 in Vienna, Austria ( Pop ) Born 7-7-1906 in Vienna, Austria - Zither player -  (He did, "The Third Man").

Jimmy DeBerry - Died 1-17-1985 in Sikeston, MO, U.S. ( Blues ) Born 11-17-1911 in Gumwood, AR, U.S. - Played guitar - Worked with Big Walter Horton.

Werly Fairburn (Lewi Werly Fairburn) (aka the Singing Barber) - Died 1-18-1985 - Lung cancer ( Rockabilly ) Born 11-27-1924 - Singer and guitarist - (He did, "Everybody's Rockin" and "I'm A Fool About Your Love").

Bill Pickering - Died 1-25-1985 ( Rock ) Born 4-5-1927 - Singer - Was a member of The Pickering Brothers, aka The Picks, who backed up Buddy Holly on, "Oh Boy", "Maybe Baby" and others.

Kenny Clarke (Kenneth Spearman Clarke) - Died 1-25-1985 in Paris, France ( Jazz ) Born 1-9-1914 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, U.S. - Drummer for The Modern Jazz Quartet - Worked with Thelonious Monk, Louis Armstrong and Ella Fitzgerald.

Don Raye (Donald MacRae Wilhoite Jr.) - Died 1-29-1985 ( Boogie-Woogie ) Born 3-16-1909 in Washington, D.C., U.S. (He wrote,"I'll Remember April" and "You Don't Know What Love Is" with Gene DePaul).

Armand "Jump" Jackson - Died 1-31-1985 in Chicago, Ill., U.S. ( Blues ) Born 3-25-1917 in New Orleans, LA, U.S. - Drummer - Worked with Roosevelt Sykes, Sonny Boy Williamson and Big Joe Williams.

Barbara Cowsill - Died 1-31-1985 - Emphysema( Pop ) Born 7-12-1928 in Newport, Rhode Island, U.S. - Was a singer for and the mother of The Cowsills (They did, "The Rain The Park And Other Things" and "Hair").

Charley Wirz - Died 2-3-1985 - Heart attack ( Guitar Tech ) Assembled and worked on guitars for Stevie Ray Vaughan including Stevie's guitar "Charley" - Stevie's song, "Life Without You" is a tribute to Charley Wirz.

Matt Monro (Terry Parsons) - Died 2-7-1985 in London, England - Cancer ( Pop ) Born 12-1-1930 in Shoreditch, London, England - (He did, "From Russia With Love" and "Softly As I Leave You").

Ali Primera (Alí Rafael Primera Rosell) - Singer of the Venezuelan People - Died 2-16-1985 in Caracas, Venezuela - Car crash ( Political ) Born 10-31-1940 Coro, Falcon State, Venezuela - Singer and songwriter - (He did, "Techos de Cartón" (Roof Of Cardboard) and "Canción Mansa Para Un Pueblo Bravo" (Meek Song For A Brave People)) - Created the record company Cigarron.

Willy Alberti - Died 2-18-1985 - Cancer - Born 10-14-1926 in Amsterdam - Singer - (Had a hit with, "Marina").

Delores Warren (aka D'Marie Warren) - Died 2-22-1985 - Car crash ( R&B ) Born 1953 - Singer - Was a member of Alton McClain & Destiny (They did, "It Must Be Love").

John Vandiver - Died 2-22-1985 near Magnolia, Texas, U.S. - Murdered ( Blues - Folk ) He was 39 years old - Played guitar and sang - (He did, "Comin Home" and "Country Girl").

Debbie Davis - Died 2-22-1985 near Magnolia, Texas, U.S. - Murdered - She was 32 years old - She was the girlfriend and manager for John Vandiver.

Tenner "Playboy" Venson (aka Coot) - Died 2-24-1985 in Chicago, IL, U.S. ( Blues ) Born 1-4-1913 in Belzoni, MS, U.S. - Singer, drummer and harmonica player - Worked with Big Walter Horton, Big Joe Williams ("Sugar Mama"), Floyd Jones, Big John Wrencher and Homesick James.

David Byron (David Garrick) - Died 2-28-1985 in Reading, Berkshire, England - Epilepsy and fatty liver ( Rock ) Born 1-29-1947 in Epping, Essex, England - Singer - (He did, "African Breeze" and "Every Inch Of The Way") - Was a member of The Stalkers, Spice ("Born In A Trunk" and "What About The Music") and Uriah Heep ("Spider Woman" and "Shadows Of Grief") - Worked with John Schroeder.

Dennis Parker (aka Wade Nichols) - Died 3-?-1985 - Shot himself ( Disco ) Born 10-28-1955 in New York, NY, U.S. - (He did, "Fly Like An Eagle" and "New York By Night") - He was a porn star and also had a role on TV's, The Edge Of Night as a police chief.

Robert Blackwell (aka Bumps) (Robert Alexander Blackwell) - Died 3-9-1985 in Whittier, CA, U.S. - Heart attack and pneumonia - Born 5-23-1922 in Seattle, Washington, U.S. -  Songwriter, arranger and producer - (Co-wrote, "Good Golly Miss Molly" and "Rip It Up") - Produced Little Richard, Bob Dylan and Sam Cooke - Co-founder of Speciality Records.

Bob Shad - Died 3-13-1985 in Los Angeles, CA, U.S. - Heart attack - Born 2-12-1920 in New York, NY, U.S. - Producer - Worked with Charlie Parker, Ted Nugent, Janis Joplin, Lightnin' Hopkins, Sonny Terry, Brownie McGhee, Smokey Hogg, Peppermint Harris, Curley Weaver, Sarah Vaughan, Maynard Ferguson and Dinah Washington.

Annette Hanshaw (aka The Personality Girl) - Died 3-13-1985 ( Jazz ) Born 10-18-1910 in New York, NY, U.S. - Singer - (She sang, "Who-Oo? You-Oo, That's Who!" and "Who's That Knocking At My Door?") - She would say, "That's All" at the end of her records - She worked with Jimmy Dorsey, Tommy Dorsey, Red Nichols, Miff Mole, Jimmy Lytell, Adrian Rollini, Benny Goodman, Manny Klein and Phil Napoleon.

Zoot Sims (John Haley Sims) - Died 3-23-1985 in New York, NY, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 10-29-1925 in Inglewood, CA, U.S. - Played saxophone - Worked with Bobby Sherwood's Orchestra, Benny
 Goodman, Woody Herman, Joe Bushkin, Stan Kenton and Gerry Mulligan - Brother of trombonist, Ray Sims.

The Singing Nun (Jeanine Deckers)(aka Sister Luc-Gabrielle, Luc Dominique and Soeur Sourire)- Died 3-31-1985 - Overdose of sleeping pills in a suicide pact with her friend ( Folk - Pop ) Born 10-17-1933 in Belgium (She sang, "Dominique" and "Cactus Flower").

Mickey Katz - Died 4-3-1985 ( Jazz - Pop - Novelty ) Born 6-15-1909 (He did,"Duvid Crockett" and "The Cry Of The Wild Goose") Worked with Spike Jones.

J. Fred Coots (John Frederick Coots) - Died 4-8-1985 in New York, NY, U.S. ( Composer ) Born 5-2-1897 in Brooklyn, NY, U.S. - Played piano - ( He co-wrote, "Santa Claus Is Coming To Town" and "Love Letters In The Sand") - Songwriters Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Willie Mabon (aka Big Willie) - Died 4-19-1985 in Paris, France - Longterm illness ( Blues ) Born 10-24-1925 in Hollywood, Tennessee, U.S. (He recorded,"Baby Why Don't You Write Me" and "Evening Shadows").

Irving Mills - Died 4-21-1985 ( Jazz ) Born 1-16-1894 in New York, NY, U.S. - Singer (He wrote the lyrics for,"It Don't Mean A Thing If It Ain't Got That Swing" and "Mood Indigo") Formed The Whoopee Makers and Irving Mills' Hotsy Totsy Gang - He managed Duke Ellington and was a music publisher with his brother Jack Mills.

Wojciech Belon - Died 5-3-1985 - Cancer ( Folk ) Born 3-14-1952 - Singer and guitarist - Was a member of Wolna Groupa Bukowina.

Harold Johnson - Died 5-8-1985 - Cancer ( R&B ) Born 7-4-1931 in Bronx, NY, U.S. - Was a tenor singer for The Crickets (They did,"For You I Have Eyes" and "I'll Cry No More") and Lillian Leach & The Mellows.

Robert "Fud" Shaw - Died 5-16-1985  ( Blues ) Born 8-9-1908 in Stafford, Texas, U.S. (He did,"Black Gal" and "Hattie Green").

Johnny Fuller - Died 5-20-1985  ( Blues ) Born 4-20-1929 in Edwards, Mississippi, U.S. (He did,"Cry Won't Make Me Stay" and "Johnny Ace's Last Letter").

Lloyd Glenn - Died 5-23-1985 - Heart attack ( Blues ) Born 11-29-1909 in San Antonio, TX, U.S. (He did,"Old Time Shuffle Blues" and "Chica Boo") Was the leader of The Joymakers - Worked with T-Bone Walker, B.B. King, Boots Douglas and Ray Charles.

Joe Darensbourg (Joseph Wilmer Darensbourg) - Died 5-24-1985 ( Jazz ) Born 7-9-1906 in Baton Rouge, LA, U.S. - Played sax and clarinet - He was a member of Joe Darensbourg & The Dixie Flyers (They did,"Yellow Dog Blues") Worked with The Liberty Syncopators, Johnny Wittwer, Kid Ory, Joe Liggins, Gene Mayl, Teddy Buckner, Jack Teagarden, Bob Scobey and Louis Armstrong.

Zane Beck - Died 5-26-1985 - Born 12-24-1927 in Clarksville, AR, U.S. - Played steel guitar and pioneered the use of knee levers - Steel Guitar Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Skeeter Best (Clifton Best) - Died May 28, 1985 in The Bronx, NY, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 11-20-1914 in Kinston, NC, U.S. - Guitarist - Worked with Earl Hines, Mercer Ellington, Ray Charles and Oscar Pettiford.

Carl McGinnis - Died 6-?-1985 ( Doo-Wop ) Born 8-13-1931 - Was a member of  The Pentagons (They did, "To Be Loved (Forever)" and "I Wonder").

Phidias Danilo Escalona (aka Big Moustache of Salsa) - Died 6-24-1985 in Caracas, Venezuela - Born 10-05-1944 in Caracas, Venezuela - Disc Jockey - Considered by many as the creator of the expression "Salsa" - Hosted radio's, La Hora de la Salsa, el Sabor y el Bembe (The Hour Of The Sauce, The Flavor and The Bembe).

Jim McPherson - Died 6-24-1985 - Illness ( Rock ) Sang and played violin, drums, bass, keyboards and guitar - (Co-wrote Jefferson Starship's, "Jane") - Was a member of Trolls who became Stained Glass (They did, "My Buddy Sin" and "A Scene In-Between") and Christian Rapid - Worked with The  Diga Rhythm Band (They did, "Razooli)"), The Novato Frank Band (They did, "Grow Your Own" and "They're Playin' Rock'n'Roll In Heaven"), Copperhead (They did, "Chameleon"), Roadhog, The Merl Saunders Band and High Noon ("Cross The Bridge" and "Left Out In The Cold").

Pee Wee Crayton (Connie Curtis Crayton) - Died 6-25-1985 in Los Angeles, CA, U.S. - Heart attack ( Blues ) Born 12-18-1914 in Rockdale, Texas, U.S. - Singer and guitarist - (He did, "Blues For My Baby" and "In The Evenin").

Ben Quillian - Died 7-?-1985 in St. Louis, MO, U.S. ( Blues ) Singer - Born 6-23-1907 in Gainesville, GA, U.S. - Worked with Rufus Quillian (They did, "Keep It Clean" and "Working It Slow").

George Kelly - Died 7-15-1985 ( Jazz ) Born 7-31-1915 in Miami, FL, U.S - Was a member of Al Cooper's Savoy Sultans and Panama Francis' Savoy Sultans.

Margo (Margarita Guadelupe Teresa Estella Bolado Castilla y O'Donnell) - Died 7-17-1985 ( Actress - Singer ) Born 5-10-1917 - She releasd an album with her husband Eddie Albert - Niece of Xavier Cugat.

Kay Kyser - Died 7-23-1985 ( Jazz ) Born 6-18-1906 - Bandleader - Was the host of the radio show "Kay Kyser's Kollege of Musical Knowledge" (Kyser's band had hits with, "Tennessee Fish Fry" and "With The Wind And The Rain In Your Hair") Worked with Judy Garland, George Duning, Merwyn Bogue, Merwyn Bogue (aka Ish Kabibble), Harry Babbitt and others.

Petr Sepesi - Died 7-29-1985 near Frantiskovy Lazne, Czechoslovakia  - Car crash on a railway crossing ( Pop ) Born 4-23-1960 in Brezno, Czechoslovakia - Singer - He was half of a duo with Iveta Bartosova (They did, "Knofliky Lasky" and "Ani Nahodou").

Piano Red (William Lee Perryman) - Died 8-1-1985 - Cancer ( Blues ) Born 10-19-1911 in Hampton, Georgia, U.S. - Piano player (Recorded, "Rockin With Red" and the original, "Mr. Moonlight") Was the brother of the late Speckled Red .

Nick Ceroli - Died 8-11-1985 in Los Angeles, CA, U.S. ( Pop ) Born 12-22-1939 in Warren, Ohio, U.S. - Percussionist - Worked with Herb Alpert & The Tijuana Brass.

Kyu Sakamoto - Died 8-12-1985 - 747 airline crash ( Pop )  Born 11-10-1941 in Kawasaki, Japan (He did, "Sukiyaki", originally titled,"Ue O Muite Aruko (I Look Up When I Walk)" and "China Nights").

 Jimmy Stokely - Died 8-13-1985 - Liver failure ( Rock ) Born 10-18-1943 - Singer - Was a member of The Exiles later renamed Exile (They did, "Kiss You All Over" and "You Thrill Me").

Bo Thrige Andersen - Died 8-14-1985 ( Rock - Jazz ) Born 1948 - Drummer - Was a member of Burnin Red Ivanhoe - Worked with Secret Oyster and The Contemporary Jazz Quintet.

L.C. Green - Died 8-24-1985 in Pontiac, MI, U.S. ( Blues ) Born 10-23-1921 in Minter City, MS, U.S. - Singer and guitarist - Worked with Walter Mitchell (They did, "Rambling Around My Blues").

Philly Joe Jones (Joseph Rudolph Jones) - Died 8-30-1985 in Philadelphia, PA, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 7-15-1923 in Philadelphia, PA, U.S. - Drummer - (He did, "Blues For Dracula" and "Polka Dots And Moonbeams") - Was the leader of Le Grand Prix and Dameronia - Worked with The Miles Davis Quintet, Dizzy Gillespie, Fats Navarro, Ben Webster, Joe Morris, Tiny Grimes, Charlie Parker, Lionel Hampton, Tadd Dameron and John Coltrane.

Dick Vance - Died 8-31-1985 ( Jazz ) Born 11-28-1915 in Mayfield, KY, U.S. - Trumpeter and arranger - Worked with Fletcher Henderson, Lil Armstrong, Chick Webb, Harry James, Cab Calloway, Earl Hines and Duke Ellington.

George T. Clinton - Died 9-?-1985 - Cancer - Born 1949.

Jo Jones (Jonathan Jones) - Died 9-3-1985 in New York, NY, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born - Drummer - 10-7-1911 in Chicago, IL, U.S. - Worked with The Count Basie Orchestra, Walter Page's Blue Devils, Lloyd Hunter, Illinois Jacquet, Billie Holiday, Teddy Wilson, Lester Young, Art Tatum and Duke Ellington.

Johnny Marks - Died 9-3-1985 ( Composer ) Born 11-10-1909 in Mt. Vernon, NY, U.S. ( He wrote, "Rudolph, The Red Nosed Reindeer" and  "Rockin' Around The Christmas Tree") - He founded "St. Nick Music" publishers and scored the TV special "Rudolph, The Red Nosed Reindeer" - The Songwriters Hall of Fame Inductee.

Little Brother Montgomery (Eurreal Wilford Montgomery) - Died 9-6-1985 in Chicago, Ill, U.S. ( Blues ) Born 4-18-1906 in Kentwood, Louisiana, U.S. - Singer and pianist - (He recorded, "Louisiana Blues" and "The Woman I Love Blues") - Worked with Kid Ory, Otis Rush, Buddy Guy, Magic Sam and  Skip James.

Johnny Desmond (Giovanni Alfredo De Simone) (aka The Creamer and The G.I. Sinatra) - Died 9-6-1985 in Los Angeles, CA, U.S. - Cancer ( Pop - Jazz ) Born 11-14-1919 in Detroit, MI, U.S. - Singer - (He had hits with, "Play Me Hearts And Flowers (I Wanna Cry)" and "The Yellow Rose Of Texas" ) - Was a member of The Downbeats, The Bob-O-Links and Don McNeill's Breakfast Club - Worked with Gene Krupa, Bob Crosby and Glenn Miller.

Ed Lewis - Died 9-18-1985 ( Jazz ) Born 1-22-1909 - Played trumpet - (He wrote, "It's Sand, Man!") - Was a member of The Bennie Moten Orchestra and Count Basie's Orchestra.

Charlie Holmes - Died 9-19-1985 in Stoughton, MA, U.S. ( Jazz ) Played sax, clarinet and oboe - Worked with Luis Russell's Orchestra, The Mills Blue Rhythm Band, Billy Kyle, Al Sears, Clyde
 Bernhardt's Harlem Blues & Jazz Band and The Boston Civic Symphony Orchestra.

Rockdrigo Gonzalez (Rodrigo Gonzalez) - El Profeta del Nopal - Died 9-19-1985 in Mexico - During an earthquake ( Rock ) Born 1950 Tampico, Tamaulipas, Mexico - Singer and guitarist - (He wrote, "Metro Balderas").

Tony Kramedas - Died 9-21-1985 ( Jazz ) Singer and producer - Worked with Automatic Pilot, The Gay Men's Chorus and The St. Lukes Cathedral Choir.

Carl Jones (aka Jump Jones) - Died 9-24-1985 in Chicago, IL, U.S. ( Blues ) Born 6-9-1913 in Waxahatchie, TX, U.S. - Played banjo, cornet and trombone and was a singer and producer - Worked with Richard Jones and Bob Shaffner And The Harlem Hot Shots ("Mitzy & Trouble In Mind") - Formed the C.J., Colt, Firma and Blue Flame labels which released recordings by Tim & The Variations, Jack McDuff, Hound Dog Taylor, Phyllis Smiley, Lee Jackson, Clark Bridges, Gloria Fowler, Earl Hooker, Homesick James, Sonny Vom and The Daffodils.

John T. Benson Jr. - Died 10-?-1985 ( Gospel ) Born 4-30-1904 - Publisher and manager for John T. Benson Publishing Co. - Gospel Music Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Nelson Riddle - Died 10-6-1985 ( Jazz - Pop ) Born 6-1-1921 in Oradell, NJ, U.S. - Worked with Tommy Dorsey, Ella Mae Morse, Ella Fitzgerald and others - Was the leader of Nelson Riddle & His Orchestra.

Tex Williams (Sollie Paul Williams) (aka Jack Williams) - Died 10-11-1985 ( Country Swing ) Born 8-23-1917 in Ramsey, Fayette County, IL, U.S. (He did,"The Night Miss Ann's Hotel for Single Girls Burned Down") Was the leader of The Texas Caravan (They did,"Smoke! Smoke! Smoke! (That Cigarette)").

Blind John Davis - Died 10-12-1985  ( Blues ) Born 12-7-1913 in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, U.S. (He did,"A Little Every Day" and "Everybody's Boogie").

Ricky Wilson (Ricky Helton Wilson) - Died 10-13-1985 - AIDS ( New Wave ) Born 3-19-1953 in Athens, Georgia, U.S. - Guitarist - Was a member of The B-52s (They did,"Rock Lobster" and "Planet Claire") - Worked with Tom Verlaine.

Merle Watson - Died 10-23-1985 - A tractor he was driving flipped over on him ( Country ) Born 2-8-1949 in Deep Gap, North Carolina, U.S. - Singer and guitarist - Son of Doc Watson who he teamed up with .

Joe Banashak - Died 10-23-1985 ( Engineer ) Born 2-15-1923 - Was an engineer for Aaron Neville, Irma Thomas and Eskew Reeder.

Gary Holton - Died 10-25-1985 - Drugs and alcohol ( Punk - Rigg' Rock ) Born 1950 - Was 1/2 of Gary Holton And Casino Steel and sang with The Heavy Metal Kids - He acted in the movies Breaking Glass and Quadrophenia.

Morton Downey Sr. (aka Morton James) - The Irish Nightingale - Died 10-25-1985 in Palm Beach, FL, U.S. - Stroke ( Pop ) Born 11-14-1901 in Wallingford, CT, U.S. - (He did, "Wabash Moon" and "I'll Always Be A Mother's Boy") - Worked with with The Paul Whiteman Orchestra and The S.S. Leviathan Orchestra - Father of talk show host, Morton Downey Jr. and had been married to actress, Barbara Bennett.

Karol Duchon - Died 11-5-1985 in Bratislava, Czechoslovakia - Liver failure? ( Pop ) Born 4-21-1950 in Galanta, Czechoslovakia - Singer (He did, "Zem Pamata", "Mam Ludi Rad" and "Cardas Dvoch Srdc").

Dicky Wells (William Wells) - Died 11-12-1985 in New York, NY, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 6-10-1907 in Centerville, TN, U.S. - Trombonist - Worked with Cecil Scott (They did,"In A Corner"), Count Basie, Ray Charles, Benny Carter and Teddy Hill.

John Lair ( John Lee Lair) - Died 11-12-1985 ( Country ) Born 7-1-1894 in Livington, KY, U.S. - (He wrote, "Take Me Back To Renfro Valley" and "Keep Them Cold Icy Fingers Offa Me") - Member of The Cumberland Ridge Runners - Hosted TV's, John Lair's Renfro Valley Folks -  Kentucky Music Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Big Joe Turner (Joseph Vernon Turner Jr.) - The Boss of the Blues - Died 11-24-1985 - Heart attack ( Boogie Woogie - Blues - Rock & Roll ) Born 5-18-1911 in Kansas City, Missouri, U.S. - (He recorded, "Corrina Corrina" and the original "Shake Rattle And Roll") - Blues Hall of Fame Inductee andRock And Roll Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Marc Aryan (Henri Marcarian) - Died 11-30-1985 - Heart attack ( Pop ) Born 11-14-1935 in Valence, France - Singer and composer - (He did, "Katy" and "Ballade").

Mary Mayo - Died 12-?-1985 in New York, NY, U.S. - Cancer ( Pop - Space Age Pop - Jazz ) Born 7-20-1924 in Statesville, NC, U.S. - Was a member of The Hillside Singers ("I'd Like To Teach The World To Sing") - Worked with Dick Hyman ("Moon Gas"), The Manhattanaires, Duke Ellington and Tex Beneke - Wife of bassist and producer, Al Ham and mother of pianist, Lorri Hafer.

Kurtis Teal - Died 12-2-1985 - Heart problem ( Rock ) Keyboardist - Worked with Iron Butterfly.

Andrew Brown - Died 12-11-1985  ( Blues ) Born 2-25-1937 in Jackson, Mississippi, U.S. - (He did, "Can't Let You Go" and "You Ought To Be Ashamed").

Ian Stewart (Ian Andrew Robert Stewart) - Died 12-12-1985 in London, England - Heart attack at his doctor's office ( Rock ) Born 7-18-1938 in Pittenweem, Fife, Scotland - Keyboardist - Was an original member of The Rolling Stones ("Flight 505" and "Time Is On My Side") - Worked with Rocket 88, Howlin' Wolf, The Yardbirds ("Drinking Muddy Water"), George Thorogood And The Destroyers and Led Zeppelin ("Rock And Roll" and "Boogie With Stu") - Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Gus Jenkins - Died 12-22-1985  ( Blues ) Born 3-24-1931in Birmingham, Alabama, U.S. (He did, "Ate The Wrong Part" and "You Told Me").

D. Boon (Dennes Dale Boon) - Died 12-22-1985 - Van accident ( Rock ) Born 4-1-1958 - Was the singer and guitarist for The Minutemen.

Lillie Mae Hill - Died 12-23-1985 in Clarksdale, MS, U.S. ( Blues ) Born 2-24-1935 in Coahoma County, MS, U.S. - Singer - (She was the vocalist on her husband Raymond Hill's, "Cotton Fields Boss Man").

Tommy Blake (Thomas Levan Givens) - Died 12-24-1985 in Carthage, TX, U.S. - Shot during argument with his wife ( Country - Rockabilly ) Born 9-14-1931 in Dallas, TX, U.S. - Singer and songwriter - Led The Rhythm Rebels (They did, "All Night Long") (Co-wrote, "The Story Of A Broken Heart" and "Am I That Easy To Forget").

Eddie Taylor (aka Playboy) - Died 12-25-1985 in Chicago, IL, U.S. ( Blues ) Born 1-29-1923 in Benoit, Mississippi, U.S. - Singer and guitarist - (He did, "Big Town Playboy" and "Seems Like A Million Years") - Worked with Elmore James, John Lee Hooker, Snooky Pryo and John Brim - Blues Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Benny Morton - Died 12-28-1985 in New York, NY, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 1-31-1907 in New York, NY, U.S. - Trombonist - Worked with Billie Holiday, Count Basie, Chick Webb, Bobby Hackett, Charlie Christian and Fletcher Henderson.

Elsie McWilliams - Died 12-30-1985 in Meridian, MS, U.S. - Born 6-1-1896 in Harperville, MS, U.S. - (She co-wrote, "Everybody Does It In Hawaii" and "Mississippi Moon" with her brother in-law, Jimmie Rodgers) - Nashville Songwriters Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Ricky Nelson ( Eric Hilliard Nelson ) - Died 12-31-1985 - Smoke inhalation from an on board fire on a plane, blamed on a faulty gasoline heater ( Rock & Roll - Pop ) Born 5-8-1940 in Teaneck, N.J., U.S. (He recorded, "Travelin' Man" and "Poor Little Fool") - Was the leader of The Stone Canyon Band -  Father of Matthew and Gunnar Nelson of Nelson - "Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame Inductee" and Rockabilly Hall Of Fame Inductee .

Andrew Chapin - Died 12-31-1985 - Smoke inhalation from an on board fire on a plane, blamed on a faulty gasoline heater ( Rock & Roll - Pop ) Born 2-7-1952 - Was a member of The Stone Canyon Band, Steppenwolf and The Association .

Bobby Neal - Died 12-31-1985 - Smoke inhalation from an on board fire on a plane, blamed on a faulty gasoline heater ( Rock & Roll - Pop ) Born 7-19-1947 - Was a member of The Stone Canyon Band.

Pat Woodward (Patrick Woodward)  - Died 12-31-1985 - Smoke inhalation from an on board fire on a plane, blamed on a faulty gasoline heater ( Rock & Roll - Pop ) Born 8-29-1948 - Was a member of The Stone Canyon Band.

Ricky Intveld  - Died 12-31-1985 - Smoke inhalation from an on board fire on a plane, blamed on a faulty gasoline heater ( Rock & Roll - Pop ) Born 1963 - Was the drummer for The Stone Canyon Band.

Clark Russell - Died 12-31-1985 - Smoke inhalation from an on board fire on a plane, blamed on a faulty gasoline heater ( Soundman ) Was a soundman for Ricky Nelson.

1986

Duncan McGuire - Died 1986 - Brain tumour ( Fusion - Prog Rock ) Bassist, recording engineer and producer - Was a member of The Phantoms, The Epics and Ayers Rock (They did, "Lady Montego") - Worked with Little Pattie, The Questions,  King Harvest, Friends, Doug Parkinson In Focus,  Reg Lindsay, Johnny Ashcroft, Bryan Davies, Jay Justin, Johnny O'Keefe and The Southern Star Band.

David Wiley (David T. Wiley) - Died 1986 ( Rock ) Singer and keyboardist - Was a member of The Grapes Of Wrath, Modern Tribal Music, Local Lobsters, Int'l Language, The Human Hands (They did, "The Man Who Knows Too Much" and "She Eats Bugs") and The Consumers (They did, "Concerned Citizen" and "Teen Love Song").

Toni Young - Died 1986? - Pneumonia ( Punk ) Bassist - She worked with Peer Pressure, Red C and Dove.

Eric Carroll - Died 1986 - Fell from a bridge while fishing, hitting his head ( Metal ) Guitarist - Was a member of Roxx Gang.

Johnny Foster - Died 1986 - Cancer ( Rock ) Singer - Was a member of The Sundown Collection.

Chris McCaffrey - Died 1986 - Brain tumour ( Rock ) Bassist - Was a member of The Pale Fountains (They did, "(There’s Always) Something On My Mind" and "Just A Girl").

Eriks Kigelis - Died 1986 ( Rock - Pop ) Was a member of Livi.

Gianfranco Gaza - Died 1986 ( Rock ) Singer - Was a member of Procession - Worked with  Arti & Mestieri.

Jimmy Don Smith - Died 1986 - Cancer ( Rock ) Guitarist - Was a member of The Sundown Collection.

Freddy Donovan - Died 1986 ( Doo Wop ) Singer - Worked with The Willows (They did, "Do You Love Me" and "My Angel").

James Darroch - Died 1986 - Tour van crash ( Punk Rock ) Singer and guitarist -  Was a member of The Celibate Rifles (They did,"Netherworld" and "Electric Snake River") and The Eastern Dark (They did,"Johnny And Dee Dee" and "Julie Is A Junkie").

Roy Davies - Died 1986 ( Disco ) Keyboardist - Was a member of Gonzalez (They did,"Pack It Up" and "Underground Railroad").

David Lodge - Died 1986 - Cancer ( Rock ) Singer - Was a member of The Shan-de-leers who changed their name to Major Hoople's Boarding House (They did,""I'm Running After You" and "Everything's The Same").

Alberto Gianquinto - Died 1-?-1986 ( Blues - Rock ) Born 6-12-1943 - Keyboardist and composer - Worked with James Cotton, Son Seals and Santana ("Incident At Neshabur").

Herb Magidson - Died 1-2-1986 in Los Angeles, CA, U.S. - Born 1-7-1906 in Braddock, PA, U.S. (He wrote, "Enjoy Yourself (It's Later Than You Think)" and "Singin' In The Bathtub") - Collaborated with Sammy Fain, Con Conrad, Ben Oadland, Carl Sigman, Michael Cleary, Allie Wrubel, Jule Styne and Sam Stept - Songwriters Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Phil Lynott (Philip Parris Lynott)- Died 1-4-1986 - Heart and liver failure ( Rock ) Born 8-20-1949 in West Bromwich, Birmingham, England - Singer and bassist - Member of The Black Eagles, Orphanage, Skid Row (They did, "New Faces, Old Places") and leader of Thin Lizzy (They recorded, "The Boys Are Back In Town" and "Whiskey In The Jar").

Daniel Balavoine - Died 1-14-1986 - Helicopter accident ( Pop ) Singer (He did, "Lady Marlène") Was in the rock opera, "Starmania".

McKinley Mitchell - Died 1-18-1986 in Chicago Heights, IL, U.S. - Heart attack ( Gospel - Blues - R&B ) Born 12-25-1934 in Jackson, MS, U.S. - Singer - (He did, "The Town I Live In" and "The End Of The Rainbow") - Was a member of The Hearts Of Harmony.

Gordon MacRae (Albert Gordon MacRae) - Died 1-24-1986 in Lincoln, NE, U.S. - Born 3-12-1921 in East Orange, NJ, U.S. - Singer and actor - (He did, "Hair Of Gold, Eyes Of Blue" and "Easy To Love") -  Worked with Jo Stafford ("Whispering Hope" and "My Darling, My Darling") - Appeared in the films, Oklahoma! and Carousel. - He was at one time married to actress, Sheila MacRae and is the father of actresses, Heather MacRae and Meredith MacRae.

Albert Grossman (Albert B. Grossman)- Died 1-25-1986 - Heart attack on an airplane - Born 5-21-1926 - Managed Janis Joplin, The Band, Peter, Paul And Mary, and Todd Rundgren - Started The Newport Folk Festival.

Everett Barksdale - Died 1-29-1986 in Inglewood, CA, U.S. - Born 4-28-1910 in Detroit, MI, U.S. - Played guitar, bass and banjo - Worked with Milt Hinton, Lena Horne, Sammy Davis Jr., Dinah Washington, Sarah Vaughan, Mickey & Sylvia ("Love Is Strange"), Erskine Tate, Benny Carter, The Blenders, Art Tatum, Buddy Tate and The Clovers.

Rex Radonich - Died 2-?-1986 - Car accident ( Bluegrass ) Played banjo - Was a member of Bullamakanka- Tamworth Country Music Hands Of Fame Inductee.

Dick James (Reginald Leon Vapnick)- Died 2-1-1986 - Heart attack -  Born 1921 - Music Publisher and Singer - 1st to sign The Beatles - Also worked with Elton John, Billy J. Kramer and Gerry and The Pacemakers.

Jay W. Johnson - Died 2-3-1986 in Penn., U.S. - Alzheimers ( Musician ) Born 1903 in Kansas, U.S. -  (He co-wrote,"Blue Christmas") Worked with Fred Waring and  Kate Smith.

Arthur Satherley (Arthur Edward  Satherley) (aka Uncle Art) - Died 2-10-1986 in Fountain Valley, CA, U.S. - Born 10-19-1889 in Bristol, England - Producer and talent scout - Worked with Gene Autry, Bob Wills, The Pickard Family, Carson Robison, Vernon Dalhart, The Allen Brothers, The Callahan Brothers, Ida Cox, Doc Roberts, Alberta Hunter, Asa Martin, Blind Lemon Jefferson, Al Dexter, Memphis Minnie, Cliff & Bill Carlisle, Roy Acuff, Bill Monroe, Tex Ritter, Red Foley, George Morgan, Spade Cooley, Ted Daffan, Ma Rainey, Big Bill Broonzy, Josh White, Leroy Carr and Johnny Bond -  Country Music Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Marco Antonio -  Died 2-12-1986 - Drowned ( Metal ) Bassist - Was a member of Holocausto.

John R. (John D. Richbourg) - Died 2-15-1986 in Nashville, Tennessee, U.S. - Lung cancer - Born 8-20-1910 in Davis Station, South Carolina, U.S. - Disc jockey who gained fame for playing rhythm and blues on a Nashville radio station in the 1950s and 1960s - He also was a manager and a record producer - Blues Foundation Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Louis Keppard - Died 2-18-1986 in New Orleans, LA, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 2-2-1888 in New Orleans, LA, U.S. - Played guitar and tuba - Was the leader of Louis Keppard's Magnolia Band - Worked with his brother Freddie Keppard.

Robbie Basho (Daniel R. Robinson Jr.) - Father of the American Raga - Died 2-28-1986 in Berkeley, CA, U.S. - His chiropractor gave him an intentional whiplash causing blood vessels in his neck to rupture which led to a stroke ( Blues - Raga ) Born 8-30-1940 in Baltimore, Maryland, U.S. - Poet, guitarist and composer (He did, "The Golden Shamrock" and "The Falconer's Arm").

Richard Manuel - Died 3-4-1986 - Hung Himself ( Rock ) Born 4-3-1943 in Stratford, Ontario, Canada - Was a singer, pianist and drummer for  The Band (They did,"I Shall Be Released" and "Rag Mama Rag")  "Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Inductee".

Howard Greenfield (aka Howie) - Died 3-4-1986 in Los Angeles, CA, U.S. - Brain tumor ( Songwriter ) Born 1936 in Brooklyn, NY, U.S. - He co-wrote songs with Neil Sedaka ("Breaking Up Is Hard To Do" and "Calendar Girl"), Carole King ("Crying In The Rain"), Jack Keller ("My Heart Has A Mind Of Its Own" and "Everybody's Somebody's Fool") - He also co-wrote the theme songs for TV's, The Flying Nun and Bewitched - Songwriters Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Sonny Terry (Saunders Terrell) - Died 3-11-1986 - Natural causes  ( Blues ) Born 10-24-1911 in Greensboro, North Carolina, U.S. - Harmonica Player - (He did, "Dark Road" with Brownie Mcghee)  - Blues Foundation's Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Luciano Virgili - Died 3-18-1986 in Prato, Italy ( Opera - Pop - Folk ) Born 1-25-1922 in Livorno, Italy - Singer - (He did "Addio sogni di gloria").

Raymond Burke - Died 3-21-1986 ( Jazz ) Born 6-6-1904 - Played Clarinet (He did,"Solitude") Worked with Henry Walde's Melon Pickers, Johnny St. Cyr, Wooden Joe Nicholas, Alvin Alcorn, Johnny Wiggs, Thomas Jefferson and Butch Thompson.

Horst Fischer - Died 3-21-1986 in Refrath, Germany ( Jazz ) Born 7-8-1930 in Chemnitz, Germany - Trumpet player - (He did, "River Song" with The Willy Berking Orchestra") - Worked with Hans Bertram.

Mark Dinning (Max Dinning) - Died 3-22-1986 - Heart attack ( Pop ) Born 8-17-1933 ( He did, "Teen Angel").

O'Kelly Isley Jr. - Died 3-31-1986 - Heart attack ( Gospel - Funk - Rock - Soul ) Born 12-25-1937 in Cincinnati, Ohio, U.S. - Was one of The Isley Brothers ( They did, "Shout" ) - "Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Inductee"

Linda Creed - Died 4-10-1986 - Cancer ( Song Writer ) Born 1949 - (Wrote Whitney Houston's, "Greatest Love Of All").

Johnny Dollar (John Washington Dollar, Jr.) (aka Johnny $ Dollar and Mr. Personality) - Died 4-13-1986 - Suicide ( Rockabilly ) Born 3-8-1933 in Kilgore, TX, U.S. - Singer - (He did, "The Wheels Fell Off The Wagon Again" and "Green-Eyed Cat") - Was a member of The Texas Sons - Worked with Jack Rhodes - Produced The New Coon Creek Girls, Teddy Nelson, Jim Cartwright and "Little" Jimmy Dickens.

Dorothy Ashby (Dorothy Jeanne Ashby - Died 4-13-1986 in Santa Monica, CA, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 8-6-1932 in Detroit, Michigan, U.S. - Played harp - Worked with Stanley Turrentine, Wendell Marshall, Shirley Scott, Art Taylor, Stan Getz and Jimmy Cobb.

Esquerita (Eskew Reeder Jr. or Esquetita Milochi) (aka The Magnificent Malochi) - Died 4-23-1986 in Harlem, NY, U.S. - Aids ( Rock - Gospel ) Born 11-20-1938 or 1935 or possibly earlier in Greenville, SC, U.S. - Singer, songwriter and piano player - (He did, "Rockin' The Joint" and "Hey Miss Lucy") - Worked with The Heavenly Echoes, Jimi Hendrix, The Jordanaires, Dr. John and Allen Toussaint.

Harold Arlen - Died 4-23-1986 ( Songwriter ) Born 2-15-1905 in Buffalo, NY, U.S. - Pianist - (He co-wrote, "Over The Rainbow", "Stormy Weather" and "I've Got the World On A String") - Worked with Duke Ellington and Barbra Streisand and with lyricists Ted Koehler, Yip Harburg, Dorothy Fields, Johnny Mercer, Les Robin and Ira Gershwin.

Lolita (Graziella Franchini) - Found dead 4-27-1986 in Lamezia Terme, Catanzaro, Italy - Unsolved murder - Born 1-5-1950 in Castagnara, Italy - (She did, "Innamorata io?" and "Come le rose").

Hylda Baker (Hilda Baker) - Died 5-1-1986 - Alzheimers ( Actress - Comedian ) Born 1905 in Farnworth, Bolton, Lancashire (She had a hit with Arthur Mullard on "You're The One That I Want") Star of TV's, Nearest And Dearest.

Hugo Peretti - Died 5-1-1986 - After a long illness ( Producer - Songwriter ) Born 12-6-1916 in Italy - Wrote and produced for Sam Cooke ( "Chain Gang" and "Twistin' The Night Away"), The Isley Brothers ("Shout"), The Stylistics ("You Make Me Feel Brand New") and many others - Worked with Luigi Creatore.

Robert Alda (Alphonso Giuseppe Giovanni Roberto D'Abruzzo) - Died 5-3-1986 in Los Angeles, CA, U.S. - Stroke caused by an embolism - Born 2-26-1914 in New York, NY, U.S. - Singer, dancer and actor - Portrayed George Gershwin in Rhapsody In Blue - Appeared in the Broadway musicals, Guys And Dolls and What Makes Sammy Run? - He had been married to showgirl and former Miss New York, Joan Brown - Father of actor, Alan Alda.

Durbin Ronk (Durbin Leroy Ronk) - Died 5-7-1986 in Tacoma, Washington, U.S. ( Rock ) Born 11-28-1946 in Pasco, Washington, U.S. - Bassist and singer - Was a member of Wakefield Manor.

Gianni Ravera - Died 5-15-1986 in Rome, Italy - Born 3-9-1920 in Chiaravalle, Italy - Singer - (He did "Gioia di vivere") - Organised musical events including The Sanremo Festival.

Charles Albertine - Died 5-18-1986 ( Composer - Arranger ) Born 1929 in Passaic NJ, U.S. - (Had a hit with, "The Long Ships") - He was an arranger for Les & Larry Elgart and The Three Suns.

John Bubbles (John William Sublett) - The father of rhythm tap - Died 5-18-1986 in Louisville, KY, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 2-19-1902 in Louisville, KY, U.S. - Singer and tap dancer - Was half of the duo, Buck and Bubbles.

Jimmy Lyons - Died 5-19-1986 - Lung cancer ( Jazz )- Born 12-1-1931 in Jersey City, New Jersey, U.S. - Saxophone player - Worked with The Cecil Taylor Unit, Karen Borca, Paul Murphy, Raphe Malik and William Parker.

Hank Mobley (Henry Mobley) - Died 5-30-1986 ( Jazz ) Born 7-7-1930 in Eastman, GA, U.S. - Was a member of The Jazz Messengers - Worked with Pepper Adams, Horace Silver, Miles Davis, Philly Joe Jones and Blue Mitchell.

Romaine Brown - Died 6-2-1986 ( Boogie Woogie ) Born 1915 - Bass and vocals - Worked with Steve Gibson A The Red Caps.

Dick Rowe - Died 6-6-1986 -  Diabetes ( Deca A & R Man ) Born 1925 - Famous for refusing to sign The Beatles with the line, " Nobody cares about guitar groups anymore" - He produced Van Morrison, Them and Tex Ritter.

Alexander Kussul - Died 6-8-1986 ( Rock ) Born 7-25-1963 - Played violin - Was a member of Aquarium(Akvarium) - Worked with Alisa.

Benny Goodman (Benjamin David Goodman) The King Of Swing - Died 6-13-1986 (Jazz - Big Band - Swing ) Born 5-30-1909 in Chicago, Ill., U.S. - Was a member of Ben Pollack's Orchestra, Red Nichol's Five Pennies and was  the leader of Benny Goodman And His Orchestra (They did, "One O'clock Jump" and "Kingdom Of Swing").

Dean Reed (Dean Cyril Reed) (aka Mr. Simpatia and The Red Elvis)- Died 6-13-1986 - Drowned under mysterious circumstances near East Berlin ( Rock ) Born 9-22-1938 in Lakewood, Colorado, U.S. - Actor, singer, guitarist and songwriter - (He did, "The Search" and "Whirly Twirly").

Alan Jay Lerner - Died 6-14-1986 in New York, NY, U.S. - Lung cancer  - Born 8-31-1918 in New York, NY, U.S. - (Co-wrote, "Almost Like Being In Love" and "They Call The Wind Maria") - Worked with Frederick Loewe - Songwriters Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Kate Smith (Kathryn Elizabeth Smith) - Died 6-17-1986 in Raleigh, NC, U.S. - Diabetes - Born 5-1-1907 in Greenville, VA, U.S. - Singer - (She did, "When The Moon Comes Over The Mountain" and is best known for her version of, "God Bless America") - Worked with Jack Miller's Orchestra - Radio Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Whitey Ford (Benjamin Francis Ford) - The Duke Of Paducah - Died 6-20-1986 in Nashville, TN, U.S. ( Country ) Born 5-12-1901 in DeSoto, MO, U.S. - Comedian and banjoist - Country Music Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Assi Rahbani - Died 6-21-1986 - After several weeks in a coma - Born 1823 in Antelias, Lebanon - Musician and songwriter - He was one of The Rahbani Brothers - Worked with his wife singer, Fairuz.

Joe Maphis (Otis Wilson Maphis) - King Of The Strings - Died 6-27-1986 ( Country ) Born 5-12-1921 in Suffolk, VA, U.S. - Played guitar, mandolin, fiddle and banjo - (He did, "Fire On The Strings" and "Randy Lynn Rag") - Was a member of The Railsplitters - Worked with  Johnny Bond, Jimmy Boyd, Johnny Burnette, The Collins Kids, Ricky Nelson, Wanda Jackson, Rose Maddox, Tex Ritter, Laura Lee Perkins and his wife Rose Lee Maphis (They did, "Dim Lights, Thick Smoke (And Loud, Loud Music)").

Monk Higgins (Milton Bland)- Died 7-3-1986 in Los Angeles, CA, U.S. - Respitory disease ( Soul - Jazz - Funk - R&B ) Born 10-3-1936 in Menifee, AR, U.S. - (He did, "Who Dun It" and "Gotta Be Funky") - Worked with The Three Sounds, Blue Mitchell, Junior Wells, Gene Harris, Muddy Waters, Freddy Robinson and Etta James.

Rudy Vallee (Hubert Prior Vallee) - Died 7-3-1986 in North Hollywood, CA, U.S. ( Jazz - Pop ) Born 7-28-1901 in Island Pond, VT, U.S. - Singer, saxophonist, clarinetist, drummer and actor - (He did, "The Drunkard Song", "The Stein Song" and a version of "Life Is Just A Bowl Of Cherries") - Led The Yale Collegians and  Rudy Vallee And The Connecticut Yankees - Worked with The Savoy Havana Band - At one time married to actress, Jane Greer.

Eddie Shu (Edward Shulman) - Died 7-4-1986 in Tampa, FL, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 8-18-1918 in New York, NY, U.S. - Singer, saxophonist, trumpeter and harmonica player - Worked with Gene Krupa, Lionel Hampton, Buddy Rich and Tadd Dameron.

Tracy Pew - Died 7-5-1986 - Head injuries he recieved from having an epileptic seizure in a bathtub ( Rock ) Born 1958 - Was a member of The Birthday Party (They did, "She's Hit" and "Release The Bats").

Calvin Carter - Died 7-9-1986 in Gary, IN, U.S. - Born 5-27-1925 in Tunica, MS, U.S. - A&R man, producer and songwriter - Worked for Vee-Jay records - Signed The Five Blind Boys, The Staple Singers, The Swan Silvertones, Jimmy Reed, John Lee Hooker,  The Dells, The Spaniels and The El Dorados.

Coke Escovedo (Thomas Escovedo) - Died 7-13-1986 ( Latin Jazz - Rock ) Born 4-30-1941 - Percussionist (He did,"Easy Come, Easy Go" and "No One To Depend On") Was a member of Azteca (They did,"Mazatlan" and "Can't Take The Funk Out Of Me") Worked with Santana - Uncle of Shelia E and cousin of Pete Escovedo.

Don Wilkerson - Died 7-18-1986 in Houston, TX, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 1932 in Moreauville, LA, U.S. - Played saxophone (He did,"Jelly Roll" and "Morning Coffee") Worked with Amos Milburn, Cannonball Adderley, B.B. King, Ray Charles and Charles Brown.

Vlado Cech (Vladimir Cech) - Died 7-21-1986 in Prague, Czechoslovakia ( Progressive Rock ) Born 9-1-1949 in Prague - Drummer - Was a member of New Force and Blue Effect which was forced to change their name by the Czechoslovakian government to Modry Efekt (later M Efekt) (They did, "Slunecny Hrob", "Kingdom Of Life" and "Nova Synteza").

Clarence "Bon Ton" Garlow - Died 7-24-1986  ( Blues - Zydeco ) Born 2-27-1911 in Welsh, Louisiana, U.S. - Guitarist (He did,"Crawfishin'" and "She's So Fine").

LeRoy Holmes (Alvin Holmes) - Died 7-27-1986  ( Orchestra Leader ) Born 9-22-1913 in Pittsburgh, PA, U.S. (He had hits with "The High And The Mighty" and "Theme From The Proud Ones") Was a musical director at MGM and United Artists.

Gordon Mills - Died 7-29-1986 - Stomach cancer ( Producer ) Born 1935 - He produced Engelbert Humperdinck and Tom Jones.

Teddy Wilson (Theodore Shaw Wilson) - Died 7-31-1986 in New Britain, CT, U.S. ( Swing ) Born 11-24-1912 in Austin, TX, U.S. - Pianist (He did,"Central Avenue Blues") Was a member of The Benny Goodman Trio (They did,"Body & Soul") Worked with Louis Armstrong, The Chocolate Dandies and Billie Holiday.

Joe Thomas - Died 8-3-1986 ( Jazz ) Born 6-19-1909 in Uniontown, PA, U.S. - Saxophonist - Worked with Stuff Smith, Eddie Wilcox, Jimmy Lunceford, Horace Henderson and Guy Jackson.

Michael Rudetski - Died 8-6-1986 - Heroin overdose ( Rock ) Born 1959 - Keyboardist - Worked with Culture Club.

Benny Barnes - Died 8-9-1986 ( Country ) Born 1-?-1934 in Beaumont, TX, U.S.

Joe Tarto - Died 8-24-1986 ( Jazz ) Born 2-22-1902 - Played tuba and bass - Worked with Bing Crosby, Red Nichols, Miff Mole, Eddie Lang, Phil Napoleon, Joe Venuti, The Dorsey Brothers, Ethel Waters, Bix Beiderbecke and The Boswell Sisters,

Thad Jones (Thaddeus Joseph Jones) - Died 8-20-1986 in Denmark ( Jazz ) Born 3-28-1923 in Pontiac, MI, U.S. - (He composed, "A Child Is Born" and "Little Pixie") - He worked with Charles Mingus, Count Basie and others.

Sax Mallard (Oett M. Mallard) - Died 8-29-1986 in Chicago, Illinois, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 9-2-1915 in Southern Illinois, U.S. - Worked with Kenny McVey, Fats Waller, The Ink Spots, The Deep River Boys, The Mary Lou Williams Quartet, Jump Jackson, Tampa Red, Big Bill Broonzy, Bill Crosby ("Zooter-Eeny" and "She Done Quit Me"), Floyd Campbell, The Chicago All Stars, Duke Ellington ("Johnny Come Lately" and "Hayfoot, Strawfoot"), Dinah Washington, Eddie Boyd, Arbee Stidham, Roosevelt Sykes ("Living In A Different World" and "Sunny Road") and The Andy Kirk Band.
 

Walter Wanderly (Walter José Wanderley Mendonça) - Died 9-4-1986 - Cancer ( Brazilian Jazz - Bossa Nova ) Born 5-12-1932 in Recife, Brazil - He played piano and organ - (He did, "Summer Samba") - He was married to  Brazilian singer, Isaurinha Garcia.

Ruth Polsky - Died 9-7-1986 - Hit by a cab - Booking agent - Worked with The Raincoats, The Smiths and Gene Loves Jezebel.

Pepper Adams (Pepper Park Adams III) - Died 9-10-1986 ( Jazz ) Born 10-8-1930 in Highland Park, MI, U.S. - Played the sax - Worked with Benny Goodman, Donald Byrd, Tommy Flanagan and Barry Harris.

Cootie Williams (Charles Melvin Williams) - Died 9-14-1985 in New York, NY, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 6-24-1910 in Mobile, AL, U.S. - Trumpet player - Worked with Duke Ellington, Benny Goodman, Teddy Wilson, Lionel Hampton and Billie Holiday.

Stewie Speer - Died 9-16-1986 in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia - Heart attack ( Jazz - Rock ) Born 6-26-1928 in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia - Drummer - Was a member of Max Merritt & The Meteors and The Brian Brown Quintet.

Ron Graeber - Died 9-26-1986 in Garibaldi, Oregon, U.S. - Car accident ( Rock ) Born 1948 in Seattle, Washington, U.S. - Played organ - Was a member of Cold Wind.

Cliff Burton (Clifford Lee Burton) - Died 9-27-1986 in Ljungby Municipality, Sweden - Tour bus accident ( Metal ) Born 2-10-1962 in Castro Valley, California, U.S. - Bassist and pianist - Was a member of EZ-Street, Agents Of Misfortune, Trauma and Metallica - (They did, "For Whom the Bell Tolls" and "Ride The Lightening") - Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Tony Acquaviva - Died 9-27-1986 - Born 5-10-1925 - Music Arranger - Was the husband of Joni James.

Helmut Qualtinger - Died 9-29-1986 in in Vienna, Austria - Liver condition ( Cabaret ) Born 10-8-1928 in Vienna, Austria - Singer - (He did, "Der Papa wird’s schon richten (Dad's Gonna Fix The Problem)" and "Kruegerl vor'm Gesicht (Facing The Jug)").

Andy McVann - Died 10-1-1986 - Car crash while eluding police ( Rock ) Born 1965 - Drummer - Was a member of The Farm.

Emmanuel Sayles - Died 10-5-1986 in New Orleans, LA, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 1-31-1907 in Donaldsonville, LA, U.S. - Singer, guitarist and banjo player - Worked with Fate Marable, William Ridgley, Armand Piron, Punch Miller, Peter Bocage, Kid Thomas Valentine and Sidney Desvigne.

Buckey Ballard - Died 10-5-1986 ( Rock ) Was a member of The  Werwolves.

Al Stricklin (Alton Meeks Stricklin) - Died 10-15-1986 in Cleburne, TX. U.S. ( Jazz - Western Swing ) Born 1-29-1908 in Antioch, TX, U.S. - Pianist - Was a member of The Texans, The Rio Grande Serenaders and The Unholy Three - Worked with The Hi Flyers and Bob Wills And His Texas Playboys (They did, "New San Antonio Rose") - Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Inductee and Western Music Association Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Moe Asch (Moses Asch) - Died 10-19-1986 - Born 1905 in Warsaw, Poland - Record company executive - Formed Folkways Records which handled Lead Belly, Pete Seeger, Woody Guthrie and many others.

Jane Dornacker - Died 10-22-1986 - Helicopter crash while doing a live traffic report ( Rock ) Born 10-1-1947 - She was a member of The Tubes ("Don't Touch Me There") and worked with Leila And The Snakes - She appeared in "The Right Stuff" and was a stand up comedienne.

Paul O'Halloran - Died 10-23-1986 - Hit by a car while pushing his motorcycle ( Rock ) Bassist - Was a member of The Dogmatics (They did, "Sister Serena (Ain't Nobody Meana)" and "Xmas Time (It Sure Doesn't Feel Like It)".

Peter Grange - Died 10-24-1986 - Car crash - Sound Engineer - Worked with Dire Straits.

Johnny Dyani (Johnny Mbizo Dyani) - Died 10-24-1986 in Berlin, West Germany ( Jazz ) Born 11-30-1945 in East London, South Africa - Bassist and pianist - Was a member of The Blue Notes - Worked with Steve Lacy, Dollar Brand, David Murray, Brotherhood Of Breath, Leo Smith and Don Cherry.

Joe Struzik (Joseph F. Struzik) - Died 11-?-1986 - Born 1-29-1941 in Woonsocket, RI, U.S. - Radio station host and promoter - International Polka Music Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Andy Moraglia - Died 11-?-1986  ( Doo-Wop ) Born 1-10-1944 - Singer - Was a member of The Chalets (They did, "Fat-Mom-Mio" and "Who's Laughing, Who's Crying").

Sippie Wallace (Beulah Belle Thomas) - The Texas Nightingale - Died 11-1-1986 - A year after a heart attack ( Blues ) Born 11-1-1898 in Houston, Texas, U.S. - Singer, songwriter and pianist - (She recorded,"Shorty George" and "Up The Country Blues") - Worked with Louis Armstrong, Eddie Heywood, King Oliver and Clarence Williams - Blues Hall Of Fame Inductee and The Michigan Womens Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Beto Villa - Died 11-1-1986 ( Tejano - Tex-Mex ) Born 10-26-1915 in Falfurias, TX, U.S. - Saxophonist.

Eddie "Lockjaw" Davis (Edward Davis) - Died 11-3-1986 in Culver City, CA, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 3-2-1922 in New York, NY, U.S. - Saxophonist - Led Eddie Davis And His Beboppers - Worked with Cootie Williams, Lucky Millinder, Count Basie, Sonny Stitt, The Kenny Clarke-Francy Boland Big Band, Andy Kirk, Fats Navarro and Louis Armstrong.

Paul Frees - Died 11-4-1986 ( Pop - Novelty - Vocal Impressionist ) Born 6-22-1920 - Sang songs in the voices of celebrities and was the voice of John Lennon and George Harrison in the
animated "Beatles" shows and was the voice of Boris Badenov and many other cartoon characters.

Louis Lorillard - Died 11-5-1986 - Born 1919 - Was a founder of The Newport Jazz Festival.

Bobby Nunn (Ulysses B. Nunn) - Died 11-5-1986 in Los Angeles, CA, U.S. - Heart attack ( Rock & Roll ) Born 9-20-1925 in Birmingham, Alabama, U.S. - Was a member of The Four Bluebirds (They did, "My Baby Done Told Me" and "Courtroom Blues"), The Robins (They did,"If It's So Baby" and "The Turkey Hop") and The Coasters (They recorded, "Down In Mexico" and "Searching" ) "Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Inductee". - Worked with Dorsey Burnette, Mickey Champion, Little Esther ("Double Crossing Blues") and Bobby Day.

Marky Markowitz (Irwin Markowitz) - Died 11-11-1986 ( Jazz ) Born 12-11-1923 in Washington - Played trumpet - Worked with Charlie Spivak, Woody Herman, Gene Krupa, Paul Desmond and Jimmy Dorsey.

Dallas Taylor - Died 11-14-1986 - Drug overdose or possibly cancer ( R&B ) Born 5-22-1936 in Chicago, IL, U.S. - Singer - Was a member of The Danderliers (They did,"Chop Chop Boom" and "Shu-Wop").

Alec Murphy - Died 11-15-1986 - Pneumonia ( Punk ) Guitarist -  Founding member of VivaBeat - Worked with X, Iggy Pop, The Vidiots and others - Produced Good Question, Rods And Cones and Chaotic Past - He studied record production under T-Bone Burnett.

Ladka Kozderkova (Ladislava Kozderkova) - Died 11-17-1986 ( Actress and singer ) Born 6-26-1949 in Brno, Czechoslovakia (She did, "Bran Svou Lasku").

Scatman Crothers - Died 11-22-1986 ( Jazz - R&B - Rock ) Born 5-23-1910 in Terre Haute, IN, U.S. (He did, "Waiting for My Baby" and "Gal Looks Good").

Cary Grant (Archibald Leach) - Died 11-29-1986 - Stroke ( Actor ) Born 1-18-1904 in Bristol, England (He charted with,"Christmas Lullaby").

Charles Moffitt - Died 12-?-1986 - Homicide ( Doo-Wop - R&B ) Was a member of The Velours (They did, "Can I Come Over Tonight" and "Crazy Love").

Johnny Williams (Johnny Lee Williams) - Died 12-?-1986 ( R&B - Gospel ) Born 1-15-1942 in Tyler, AL, U.S. (He did, "Slow Motion, Pt.1" and "Being Wanted, Needed And Loved") He was a member of The Royal Jubilees.

Lee Dorsey (Irving Lee Dorsey)- Died 12-2-1986 in New Orleans, LA, U.S. - Emphysema ( Soul ) Born 12-24-1924 in New Orleans, LA, U.S. (Recorded, "Working In A Coal Mine" and "Ya Ya").

Paul Bascomb - Died 12-2-1986 in Chicago, IL, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 2-12-1912 in Birmingham, AL, U.S. - Was a member of The 'Bama State Collegians - Worked with Erskine Hawkins and Count Basie's Orchestra - Brother of Dud Bascomb.

Billy Rancher - Died 12-2-1986 - Lymphoma ( Rock ) Born 1957 (He did,"Make Love, Not War") He was the leader of The Unreal Gods (They did,"My Girl Friend's Drawers" and "Boom Chuck Rock").

Desi Arnaz  (Desiderio Alberto Arnez y de Acha III) (aka Ricky Ricardo) - Died 12-2-1986 in Del Sea, CA, U.S. - Cancer (Mambo - Rumba - Latin) Born 3-2-1917 in Santiago, Cuba - Worked with Xavier Cugat  and was the leader of The Desi Arnez Orchestra (They did,"Babalu" and "Cuban Pete") Was married to actress Lucille Ball.

Hollywood Fats (Michael Mann) - Died 12-8-1986 - Heart attack or heroin overdose ( Electric Blues ) Born 3-17-1954 - Was the leader of The Hollywood Fats Band (They did,"Suitcase Blues" and "Red Headed Woman").

Freddie Stone (Fred Stone) - Died 12-10-1986 - Heart failure ( Jazz ) Born 9-9-1935 in Toronto, Canada - Played Flugelhorn, trumpet, pianio and was a composer - Led Freddie's Band - Worked with The Duke Ellington Orchestra ("Maiera") and Moe Koffman ("Uranus").

Kate Wolf (Kathryn Louise Allen) - Died 12-10-1986 - Leukemia ( Folk ) Born 1-27-1942 in San Francisco, CA, U.S. - Singer - (She did, "Love Still Remains" and "Unfinished Life") - Was a member of Wildwood Flower.

Rudolf Cortes (Rudolf Kraisinger) - Died 12-12-1986 in Krasna Lipa, Czechoslovakia ( Swing - Musical ) Born 3-15-1921 in Plzen, Czechoslovakia - Actor and singer (He did, "Dobrou Noc", "Nelly Gray" and "Az Budes Ma").

Buddy Williams (Harold Williams) - The Yodelling Jackaroo - Died 12-12-1986 ( Country ) Born 9-5-1918 in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia - Singer, songwriter and guitarist - The Country Music Hands Of Fame Inductee and The Country Music Roll Of Renown Inductee.

Oakley Haldeman - Died 12-17-1986 ( Composer ) Born 1909 in California, U.S. (He co-wrote, "Here Comes Santa Claus" with Gene Autry and "I Brung You A Present").

Tommy Keiser - Died 12-24-1986 - Suicide ( Rock ) Born 8-21-1957 - Bassist and singer - Was a member of Krokus (They did,"Bedside Radio" and "Back-Seat Rock & Roll").

Miki Zone - Died 12-31-1986 - AIDS related ( Rock - Disco ) Guitarist and songwriter - Was a member of The Fast (They did, "Boys Will Be Boys" and "Kids Just Wanna Dance") andMan 2 Man (They did, "All Men Are Beasts") - Worked with Ric Ocasek.

1987

Warren Keith - Died 1987? ( Rock ) Pianist - Worked with The Bossmen (They did, "Thanks To You" and "Baby Boy") and Hank Williams Jr.

Joyce Storm (Joyce Parsons) - Died 1987 ( Bluegrass ) Singer and accordionist - Worked with her husband, drummer and concertina player, Maurice Storm in The Whitewater Melody Men.

Al Melinger (Dr. Alan Melinger) - Died 1987 - Heart attack ( Rock ) Bassist - He was 38 years old - Was a member of The Iguanas (They did, "I'm Leaving You Baby") and Endle St. Cloud In The Rain (They did, "Tell Me One More Time (What's Happening To Our World)" and "Quest For Beauty") who shorten their name to Endle St. Cloud (They did, "Jessica") and then to just Endle ("She Wears It Like A Badge" and "Laughter") - He also recorded an album ("Art Of The Gifted") by clients of various mental health facilities.

Rev. F.D. Kirkpatrick (Frederick Douglass Kirkpatrick) - Died 1987 ( Folk - Gospel ) Born 8-12-1933 in Haynesville, LA, U.S. - Guitarist - (He did, "The Cities Are Burning" and "You're Just A Laughing Fool").

Victoria K. I'i Rodrigues (Victoria Keali'ika'apunihonua I'i) - Died in 1987 - Born  in 1912 - Singer - (She did, "Hawai'i Aloha", "Kanai'aupuni") - Hawaiian Music Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Bob Benson (Robert Benson Sr.) - Died in 1987 - Born 8-?-1930 in Nashville, TN, U.S. - Co-founded The Heartwarming Record Company - Was a lifetime member of the Gospel Music Association - Gospel Music Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Todd Crew - Died 1987 - Heroin overdose ( Glam - Hard Rock ) Bassist for The Drunk Fux and Jetboy.

Peter Frohn - Died 1987 ( Rock ) Played guitar - Was a member of The Kentucky Rockers who became The Kentuckys (They did, "Uncle Willy").

Morey Carr - Died 1987 - Lung cancer ( Rock ) Born 7-31-1932 in Waterbury, Connecticut, U.S. - Was a member of The Nitwits who became The Playmates (They did, "Beep Beep" and "What Is Love?").

Harold Loeffelmacher (Harold B. Loeffelmacher) - Died 1987 ( Polka ) Born 1905 near Fort Ridgely, MN. U.S. - Played violin and bass horn - Founder of The Continental Band renamed The Broadway Band which became The Six Fat Dutchmen - International Polka Music Hall Of Fame Inductee and The Minnesota Music Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Ray Hoeny - Died 1987 or 1988 ( Rock ) Guitarist for The Lift - Worked with Danny Averell.

Allen Jones - Died 1987 - Heart attack - Producer, bassist and songwriter - He produced The Bar-Kays, Isaac Hayes and Albert King.

 Carmalita Hampton - Died 1987 ( Jazz ) Singer and saxophonist - Was a member of The Hampton Sisters.

Kid Thomas Valentine - Died 1987 ( Jazz ) Born 2-3-1896 in Reserve, LA, U.S. - Played trumpet - He led The Algiers Stompers - Worked with Elton Theodore and The Pickwick Brass Band.

Joe Doke - Died 1987 - ( Rock ) Was a member of The Doke Brothers.

Allan Jaffe (Allan P. Jaffe) - Died 1987 ( Jazz ) Born 4-24-1935 in Pottsville, PA, U.S.  - Played tuba - Manager of The Preservation Hall and member of The Preservation Hall Jazz Band.

John Pasternak - Died 1987 - Heart attack ( Rock ) Bassist - Was a member of  Band Of Joy (They did,"3 A.M. In The City" and "Please Call Home") and Bronco (They did,"Lazy Now" and "Traveller").

Bruce Rawlins - Died 1987 ( Country ) (Along with Terry Carisse he did, "Hello Mom" and "Sparkle In Her Eyes").

Johnny Martin - Died 1987 ( Gospel - Soul - R&B ) Born 2-2-1941 in Los Angeles, California, U.S. - Vocalist for The Mighty Clouds Of Joy (They did, "Time" and "(Ride The) Mighty High").

Kenny Bass (Peter Bastasic Jr.) - Died 1-?-1987 - Born 3-29-1922 - Played guitar and bass - Led The Kenny Bass Polka Poppers Orchestra - Worked with The Sokach Habat Tunemixers - International Polka Music Hall Of Fame Inductee and National Cleveland-Style Polka Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Peter Lucia (Peter Paul Lucia Jr.) - Died 1-6-1987 in Los Angeles, U.S. - Heart attack ( Rock ) Born 2-2-1947 in Morristown, New Jersey, U.S. - Was a drummer for Hog Heaven and Tommy James And The Shondells (They did, "Crimson And Clover" and "I Am A Tangerine").

Bobby Gene McNelly - Died 1-7-1987 - Shot himself after shooting his fiancee ( Country Rock ) Born 5-21-1950 in Columbus OH, U.S. - Was the lead singer and guitarist for McGuffey Lane (They did, "Long Time Lovin' You" and "Start It All Over").

Handsome Ned (Robin David Masyk) - Died 1-10-1987 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada - Possible drug overdose ( Country - Reggae ) Born 6-4-1957 in West Germany - Guitarist - He led The Sidewinders (They did, "Put The Blame On Me") - Worked with The Valours, The Hayseed Hellions, The Running Kind and Mohjah - Hosted radio's, The Honky Tonk Hardwood Floor Show.

Marion Hutton (Marion Thornburg) - Died 1-10-1987 in Kirkland, WA, U.S. - Effects of cancer ( Jazz ) Born 3-10-1919 in Battle Creek, MI, U.S. - Singer and actress - Worked with The Vincent Lopez Orchestra and The Glenn Miller Orchestra ("The Woodpecker Song") - Appeared in movies with Bud Abbott And Lou Costello and The Marx Brothers - She was married to producer Jack Philbin, writer Jack Douglas and musician Vic Schoen - Sister of actress Betty Hutton.

Bobby Peterson - Died 1-12-1987 ( Rock ) Born 1937 (He wrote The Grateful Dead's, "New Potato Caboose", "Unbroken Chain" and "Pride Of Cucamonga")

Alton Purnell - Died 1-14-1987 Inglewood, CA, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 4-16-1911 in New Orleans, LA, U.S. - Vocalist and Pianist - Worked with George Lewis' Ragtime Band, Isaiah Morgan, Alphonse Picou, "Big Eye" Louis Nelson, Sidney Desvigne, The Young Men From New Orleans, Joe Darensbourg, Kid Ory and Barney Bigard.

Rauli Somerjoki (aka Rauli "Badding" Somerjoki) (Rauli Aarre Tapani Somerjoki) - Died 1-14-1987 in Helsinki ( Rock ) Born 8-30-1947 in Somero - Singer - Worked with The Agents.

Ray Bolger - Died 1-15-1987 ( Actor ) Born 1-10-1904 in Dorchester MA, U.S. (He charted with,"Lil Elfy") He was the scarecrow who acted and sang in The Wizard Of Oz.

Jim Anglin - Died 1-21-1987 ( Country ) Born 3-23-1913 in Franklin, TN, U.S. - Was one of The Anglin Brothers.

Harry Dial - Died 1-25-1987 in New York, NY, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 2-17-1907 in Birmingham, AL, U.S. - Drummer - Worked with Fats Waller, Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong and Bill Coleman.

Fred Maples (Fred C. Maples) - Died 2-?-1987 ( Gospel ) Born 8-22-1910 - Singer - Worked with The Cleveland Quartet, Homeland Harmony Quartet, The Vaughan Victory Quartet and The Harmoneers Quartet - Georgia Music Hall Of Fame Inductee and Southern Gospel Music Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Alessandra Lescano (Alexandra Leschan) - Died 2-1-1987 in Salsomaggiore Terme, Parma, Italy -
 Born 7-29-1910 in Gouda, The Netherlands - Singer - Was a member of Trio Lescano (They did, "Pippo non lo sa" and "Camminando sotto la pioggia").

Alfred Lion - Died 2-2-1987 ( Jazz Producer ) Born 4-21-1908 in Berlin, Germany - He was the founder of Blue Note Records - He worked with Cannonball Adderley, Sidney Bechet, Art Blakey, Donald Byrd, Herbie Hancock and many others.

Claudio Villa (Claudio Pica) - Died 2-7-1987 in Padova, Italy - Born 1-1-1926 in the Trastevere quarter of Rome, Italy - Singer.

Tony "Stix" Destra - Died 2-8-1987 - Car accident ( Rock ) Drummer (He co-wrote,"Kick 'N' Fight" and "In America") He worked with Cinderella and Britney Fox.

David Savoy Jr. - Died 2-11-1987 - Suicide ( Rock ) Born 1962 - Was the manager for  Husker Du .

Billy Rogers - Died 2-11-1987 ( Jazz ) Guitarist (He did,"Egocentric Ions" and "Billy's Bop") Worked with The Crusaders.

Seymour Spiegelman - Died 2-13-1987 in New York, NY, U.S. ( R&B ) Born 10-1-1930 in Seneca Falls, NY, U.S. - Singer - Was a member of The Hilltoppers (They did, "Chicken, Chicken" and "Trying") - Worked for Dot records.

Wendy Holcombe - Died 2-14-1987 ( Country - Gospel ) Born 4-19-1963 in Alabaster, AL, U.S. - Worked with Stephan Adams And The Trinity Choir Boston.

Jimmy Holiday - Died 2-15-1987 in Iowa City, IA, U.S. - Heart failure ( R&B - Soul ) Born 7-24-1934 in Sallis, MS, U.S. - Singer and songwriter - (He did, "How Can I Forget" and co-wrote Jackie DeShannon's, "Put a Little Love In Your Heart").

Andy Warhol (Andrew Warhola) - Died 2-22-1987 in New York, NY, U.S. - Born 8-6-1928 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, U.S. - Artist and designer - Produced The Velvet Underground and designed a few of their album covers.

Zeca Afonso (Jose Manuel Cerqueira Afonso dos Santos) - Died 2-23-1987 in Setubal, Portugal - Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis ( Folk ) Born 8-2-1928 in Aveiro, Portugal - Singer and musician - (He wrote, "Grandola, Vila Morena" and "Viva o Poder Popular") - Worked with Jorge Godinho, Jose Niza, Adriano Correia de Oliveira, Esmeralda Amoedo and Durval Moreirinhas.

Danny Kaye (David Daniel Kominsky) - Died 3-3-1987 in Los Angeles, CA, U.S. - Hepatitis and internal bleeding ( Novelty - Pop - Jazz ) Born 1-18-1913 in Brooklyn, New York, U.S. - (He did,"The Maladjusted Jester" and "Anatole of Paris") - Worked with Louis Elison, Abe Lyman's Band and also worked with his wife, pianist and songwriter, Sylvia Fine.

Eddie Durham - Died 3-6-1987 ( Jazz ) Born 8-19-1906 in San Marcos, TX, U.S. - Was a member of The Kansas City Five, The Durham Brothers, The Countsmen, The Harlem Blues and Jazz Band and Walter Page's Blue Devils - Worked with Count Basie, Willie Bryant, Glenn Miller and others.

Tony Stratton-Smith - Died 3-9-1987 - Stomach cancer - Born 1933 in Birmingham, West Midlands, England - Manager - Creator and chairman of Charisma Label Records -  Worked with The Creation, The Nice, The Bonzo Dog Doo Dah Band, Van Der Graaf Generator and Genesis.

Don Gant - Died 3-15-1987 ( Pop ) Born 10-24-1942 - He was a vocalist for Neon Philharmonic (They did, "Morning Girl" and "Heighdy-Ho Princess") - Worked with Jimmy Buffett and Bobby "Blue" Bland.

Tommy Stevens (aka Supersonic) - Died 3-15-1987 - Motorcycle accident ( Glam ) Singer - Was a member of Hook's Right Hand (They did, "You're It ").

William Houze - Died 3-16-1987 in Sacramento, CA, U.S. ( R&B ) Born 2-2-1915 in Chicago, IL, U.S. - Singer - Worked with The Deep River Boys.

Norman Harris - Died 3-21-1987 - Heart attack ( R&B ) Born 2-10-1958 in Ney York, NY, U.S. - Guitarist, producer, arranger and songwriter - (He did, "Dodge City, Hit City" and "In Search Of Peace Of Mind") Was a member of B-H-Y (They did, "We Funk The Best") - Worked with MFSB(Mother Father Sister Brother) - As part of the production trio, "Baker-Harris-Young" he produced The Spinners ("I'll Be Around"), Joe Simon ("Drowning In The Sea Of Love"), The Delfonics ("La La Means I Love You"), The Trammps ("Disco Inferno") and many others.

Dino Martin (Dean Paul Martin) - Died 3-21-1987 in Mount San Gorgonio, CA, U.S. - Crash while piloting an Air National Guard jet ( Rock ) Born 11-17-1953 in Encino, CA, U.S. - Was a member of Dino, Desi And Billy (They did, "Not The Lovin' Kind" and "The Rebel Kind") - He had been married to actress, Olivia Hussey and skater, Dorothy Hamill - Son of singer and actor, Dean Martin.

Buddy Rich (Bernard Rich) - Died 4-2-1987 ( Jazz ) Born 9-30-1917 in New York - Drummer (He did, "Skin Deep" and "Quiet Please").

Diane Adams (Diane L. Adams) - Died 4-4-1987 - Car accident ( Country ) Born 10-4-1962 - (She did, "I'm Little (But I'm Loud)")

Maxine Sullivan (Marietta Williams) - Died 4-7-1987 ( Jazz - Standards ) Born 5-13-1911 in Homestead, PA, U.S. (She did,"Annie Laurie" and "Loch Lomond") She was married to bassist John Kirby and pianist Cliff Jackson.

Jaroslav Kadlec - Died 4-12-1987 ( Rock ) Drummer - Was a member of Karamel and Katapult.

Carlie Barrett (Carlton Lloyd Barrett) - Died 4-17-1987 - Shot by his wife and her lover ( Reggae ) Born 12-1-1950 - Was a member of The Wailers.

Irving Ashby (Irving C. Ashby) - Died 4-22-1987 in Perris, CA, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 12-29-1920 in Somerville, MA, U.S. - Played guitar and upright bass - (He did, "Big Guitar") - Worked with Lionel Hampton, Norman Granz's Jazz, The Nat "King" Cole Trio, Sheb Wooley, LaVern Baker, Howard Roberts, B.B. King, Louis Jordan, Pat Boone, The Ernie Freeman Combo and Oscar Peterson.

Billy Johnson (William McDowell Johnson) - Died 4-28-1987 in Los Angeles, CA, U.S. ( Doo-Wop - R&B ) Born 8-20-1928 in Hartford, CT, U.S. - Was a guitarist for The Moonglows (Oiginally named The Crazy Sounds) (They did, "Sincerely" and "Ten Commandments Of Love") - Worked with with Sonny Thompson and also was a TV producer - Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Dalida (Yolande Christina Gigliotti) - Died 5-3-1987 in Paris, France - Overdose of sleeping pills ( Pop - Rock - Disco ) Born 1-17-1933 in Shoudra, a district of Cairo, Egypt - Singer - (She did, "La Danse de Zorba" and "Bang Bang").

Paul Butterfield (Paul Vaughn Butterfield) - Died 5-4-1987 in North Hollywood, CA, U.S. - Intestinal  problems ( Blues - R&B ) Born 12-17-1942 in Chicago, Illinois, U.S. -  Harmonica player and singer - LedThe Paul Butterfield Blues Band (They did, "Our Love Is Drifting" and "No Amount Of Loving") and Paul Butterfield's Better Days - Worked with Mike Bloomfield, Muddy Waters and John Mayall & The Bluesbreakers - Blues Foundation Hall Of Fame Inductee and Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Joe De Zuniga - Died 5-16-1987 - Heart disease ( Metal ) Singer - Was a member of Insanity.

Rev. Robert Wilkins (Robert Timothy Wilkins) (aka Tim Oliver) - Died 5-26-1987 in Memphis, TN, U.S. ( Blues - Gospel ) Born 1-16-1896 in Hernando, MS, U.S. - Singer and guitarist - (He did, "Rolling Stone" and "That's No Way To Get Along").

Turk Murphy (Melvin Edward Alton Murphy) - Died 5-30-1987 in San Francisco, CA, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 12-16-1915 in Palermo, CA, U.S. - Trombonist and band leader - Led Turk Murphy And His San Francisco Jazz Band - Worked with The Yerba Buena Jazz Band.

Gary Driscoll - Died 6-?-1987 in New York, U.S. - Murdered ( Rock ) Drummer for Electric Elves, Elf ("Hoochie Coochie Lady" and "First Avenue"), Ritchie Blackmore's Rainbow ("If You Don't Like Rock 'n' Roll" and "Snake Charmer"), Dakota, Starcastle and Bible Black ("Tetragrammaton" and "Black Magic").

George Korinek - Died 6-?-1987 ( Blues ) Born 1946 - Guitarist - Was a member of Shadowfax - Worked with Wilson Mower Pursuit.

Oliver North (Oliver Dembling) - Died 6-?-1987 - Asthma related heart failure( New Wave ) Guitarist and singer - Was a member of The Comateens (They did, "Cool Chick" and a remake of, "The Munsters Theme") and North And Byrd.

Sammy Kaye - Died 6-2-1987 - Cancer ( Pop - Swing - Dance ) Born 3-13- 1910 in Rocky River, OH, U.S. (He did,"Swing and Sway" and "Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah") Worked with Don Cornell, Betty Barclay, Billy Williams, Nancy Norman, and Tony Alamo - He charted with 105 pop hits.

Albert Hadley - Died 6-4-1987 ( Gospel ) Born 1950 - Founder of The Gospel Soul Children.

Yogi Horton (Lawrence Horton) - Died 6-8-1987 - Jumped out of a 17th floor hotel window ( Rock ) Born 1954 - Drummer - Worked with Debbie Harry, Diana Ross, The B-52's, David Byrne, Peter Wolf and many others.

Miroslav Berka - Died 6-8-1987 in Prague, Czechoslovakia - Found dead on the cellar floor with his belt hanging from the ceiling, suicide or murder? ( Rock ) Born 10-22-1944 in Prague, Czechoslovakia (at the time Bohemia-Moravian Protectorat) - Keyboardist and harmonica player - Was a member of Olympic (They did, "Zelva", "Krasna Neznama" and "Dynamit").

Curt Boettcher (aka Curt Boetcher and Curt Becher) (Curtis Roy Boettcher) - Died 6-14-1987 - Liver complications ( Rock - Pop ) Born 1-7-1944 in Eau Claire, WI, U.S. - Singer - Was a member of The Goldbriars, Summer's Children, Sagittarius (They did,"From You Unto Us" and "My World Fell Down") and The Millennium (They did, "I Just Want To Be Your Friend" and "5.A.M.") - (He produced The Association's, "Along Comes Mary" and "Cherish") - Worked with Ballroom, Your Gang and Friar Tuck - Was a co-founder of Together Records.

Jackie Gleason (Herbert John Gleason) - Died 6-24-1987 ( Mood Music - Jazz ) Born 2-26-1916 in Brooklyn, NY, U.S. - (He did, "Melancholy Serenade" and "Allo, Allo, Allo") - Worked with Pee Wee Erwin, Bobby Hackett and Wild Bill Davis.

Boudleaux Bryant (Diadorius Boudleaux Bryant) - Died 6-25-1987 in Knoxville, TX, U.S. - Cancer ( Country ) Born 2-13-1920 in Shellman, Georgia, U.S. - Violinist - (He and his wife Felice co-wrote, "Wake Up Little Susie" and "Raining In My Heart") - He co-wrote over 800 songs - Worked with Hank Penny's Radio Cowboys - Country Music Hall Of Fame Inductee, Songwriters Hall Of Fame Inductee and Nashville Songwriters Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Libba Cotten (Elizabeth Cotten) - Died 6-29-1987  ( Folk - Blues ) Born 1-5-1893 in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, U.S. - (She recorded, "Freight Train").

Rev. Pearly Brown - Died 7-?-1986 in Plains, GA, U.S ( Blues ) Born 8-18-1915 in Abbeville, GA, U.S. - Singer and guitarist - (He did, "Steal Away") - Performed on The Grand Old Opry.

Snakefinger (Philip Charles Lithman) - Died 7-1-1987 in Linz, Austria - Heart attack ( Rock - Avant-garde ) Born 6-17-1949 in Tooting, South London, England - Played guitar and violin - (He did, "There's No Justice In Life") - Led The Vestal Virgins - Was a member of Chilli Willi & The Red Hot Peppers - Worked with The Residents.

John Hammond Sr. (John Henry Hammond Sr.)- Died 7-10-1987 - Natural causes ( Producer - Record Company Executive ) Born 12-15-1910 in New York, NY, U.S. - Dealt with Robert Johnson, Bob Dylan, Pete Seeger, Bruce Springsteen, Aretha Franklin and others - Rock And Roll Of Fame Inductee.

Otha Lee Gaines - Died 7-15-1987 in Helsinki, Finland - Cancer ( R&B ) Born 1914 - Was a member of The Delta Rhythm Boys (They did, "Just A-Sittin' and A-Rockin") - Vocal Group Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Howard McGhee (Howard B. McGhee) - Died 7-17-1987 ( Jazz ) Born 3-6-1918 in Tulsa, OK, U.S. - Played trumpet - Worked with Lionel Hampton, Coleman Hawkins, Andy Kirk, Charlie Parker, Charlie Barnet, Fats Navarro, Georgie Auld and Count Basie.

Bert Keyes - Died 7-21-1987 - Undisclosed causes ( R&B ) Born 1934 (He did,"I Was Such A Fool" and "Write Me Baby") Was the music director of Rama Records - Worked with Ruth Brown, Taft Jordan, The Five Budds, Albert King, LaVerne Baker, The Blue Notes and The Larke Sisters.

Hugh Bryant  - Died 7-22-1987 - Heart attack after singing at the funeral of his bandmate, singer Lee Gaines ( R&B ) He was 58 years old - Born in New York, NY, U.S. - Singer - Was a member of The Delta Rhythm Boys - Vocal Group Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Nick Perls (J. Nicholas Perls) - Died 7-22-1987 in New York, NY, U.S. - Aids - Born 4-4-1942 in New York, NY, U.S. - Founded Belzona Records, Blue Goose Records and Yazoo Records - Re-released recordings by Blind Willie McTell, Charlie Patton, Blind Lemon Jefferson, Big Bill Broonzy, The Memphis Jug Band and Blind Blake - Recorded Woody Mann, Larry Johnson, Roy Bookbinder, Jo-Ann Kelly and Roger Hubbard.

Dick Wellstood (Richard MacQueen Wellstood) - Died 7-24-1987 in Palo Alto, CA, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 11-27-1927 in Greenwich, CT, U.S. - Pianist - Worked with Sidney Bechet, Rex Stewart, Charlie Shavers, Roy Eldridge, Conrad Janis and Gene Krupa.

Alex Sadkin - Died 7-25-1987 - Car crash ( Producer ) Born 4-9-1949 - He produced Foreigner, Grace Jones, The J. Geils Band, Duran Duran, Bob Marley & The Wailers, The Thompson Twins and others.

Joe Holley (James C. Holley) - Died 7-25-1987 in Fresno, CA, U.S. - Pneumonia ( Country ) He was 70 years old - Born in Stephenville, TX, U.S. - Played fiddle - Worked with Pinky Meyers And The Dixie Rhythm Boys, Elmer Starborough And The High Flyers, Papa Sam Cunningham And The Crystal Spring Ramblers, Ocie Stockard And The Wanderers and Bob Wills And His Texas Playboys - Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Inductee and Western Music Association Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Joe Liggins - Died 8-1-1987 - Stroke ( Blues - R&B ) Born 7-9-1915 in Guthrie, OK, U.S. - Was the leader of The Honeydrippers (They did,"The Honeydripper" and "Pink Champagne") Worked with Sammy Franklin's California Rhythm Rascals - Brother of Jimmy Liggins.

David Martin (David A. Martin) - Died 8-2-1987 - Heart attack ( Rock ) Born 1937 - Was a bass player for Tommy & The Tom Toms, The Bill Smith Combo, Gene Summers, Freddy Fender  Andy And The Nightriders and Sam The Sham And The Pharaohs (They recorded, "Woolly Bully" and "Ring Dang Doo").

Kenny Price - Died 8-4-1987 - Heart attack ( Country ) Born 5-27-1931 in Florence, KY, U.S. - Singer and guitarist (He did,"The Sherriff Of Boone County" and "Walking On New Grass") was a cast member of the television show Hee Haw.

Gary Chester - Died 8-17-1987 - Cancer? ( Rock - Jazz ) Born 10-27-1924 - Studio drummer - Played for The Coasters, Country Joe McDonald, Van Morrison ("Brown Eyed Girl"), The Monkees, The Mamas And Papas, Lesley Gore ("It's My Party"), The Lovin' Spoonful, Dionne Warwick ("Walk On By"), Petula Clark ("Downtown"), John Denver, Laura Nyro, Dusty Springfield, Jim Croce ("Time In A Bottle"), The Drifters ("Under The Boardwalk"), The Angels ("My Boyfriend's Back"), Aretha Franklin, Screamin' Jay Hawkins, Wilson Pickett, Frank Sinatra, Johnny Thunder, Pete Seeger and many other artists.

Leonard "Baby Doo" Caston (Leonard Caston, Sr.) - Died 8-22-1987 - Heart disease ( Blues ) Born 6-2-1917 in Sumrall, Mississippi, U.S. - Pianist (He did, "Blues At Midnight" and "I'm Gonna Walk Your Log").

Scott La Rock (Scott Sterling) - Died 8-27-1987 - Shot while trying to stop a fight between two parties ( DJ - Producer ) Born 3-2-1962 - Formed Boogie Down Productions .

Lee Marvin - Died 8-29-1987 in Tucson, AZ, U.S. - Born 2-19-1924 in New York, NY, U.S. - Actor - (He did, "I Was Born Under A Wandering Star") - Appeared in the films, "Cat Ballou" and "The Comancheros".

Archie Campbell - Died 8-29-1987 ( Country ) Born 11-7-1914 in Bulls Gap, Greene County, TN, U.S. - (He charted with, "Rindercella" and "The Dark End Of The Street") - Writer and star of TV's Hee Haw.

Peter Tosh (Winston Hubert MacIntosh) (aka Stepping Razor) - Died 9-11-1987 in Kingston, Jamaica - Shot by burglars in his home ( Reggae ) Born 10-9-1944 in Westmoreland, Jamaica - Singer and guitarist - (He did, "Legalize It" and "Igziabeher") - Was a member of The Teenagers, The Wailing Rudeboys and The Wailing Wailers (They did, "Simmer Down") later renamed The Wailers (They did, "Duppy Conqueror" and "Small Axe").

Jess "Free I" Dixon - Died 9-11-1987 in Kingston, Jamaica - Shot by burglars in Peter Tosh's home - Disk Jockey.

Lorne Greene (Lorne Hyman Greene) - Died 9-11-1987 in Santa Monica, CA, U.S. - Complications from prostate cancer - Born 2-12-1915 in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada - Actor and singer - (He did, "Ringo" and "Ol tin cup") - Appeared on TV's, "Bonanza" as Ben Cartwright and "Battlestar Galactica" as Captain Adama.

Gentleman Jeff Graboski (Jeffrey Graboski) (aka Spink) - Died 9-18-1987 - Overdose of antidepressant ( Rock ) Born 6-7-1953 - Drummer - Was a member of Little Hans and OHO (They did, "Vitamin OHO" and "Dream Of The Ridiculous Band").

Jaco Pastorius ( John Francis Pastorius III ) - Died 9-21-1987 in Fort Lauderdale, FL, U.S. - Beaten to death by a nightclub bouncer while trying to enter a club in a disheveled condition ( Pop - Rock - Jazz ) Born 12-1-1951 in Norristown, Pennsylvania, U.S. - Bass player and singer for Weather Report and Word Of Mouth - Worked with  Blood, Sweat And Tears and Joni Mitchell.

O.B. McClinton (Obie Burnett McClinton) - The Chocolate Cowboy - Died 9-23-1987 in Nashville, TN, U.S. - Abdominal cancer ( Country ) Born 4-25-1940 in Senatobia, MS, U.S. - Singer, songwriter and guitarist - (He did, "The Other One" and "Don't Let The Green Grass Fool You").

Joe Reisman - Died 9-25-1987 ( Orchestra Leader ) Born 9-16-1924 in Dallas, TX, U.S. - (He had hits with, "Armen's Theme" and "Pamela Throws A Party").

Jimmy Springs - Died 10-4-1987 ( Rock ) Born 9-5-1911 in Mattoon, IL, U.S.

Kishore Kumar (Abhas Kumar Ganguly) - Died 10-13-1987 - Heart attack ( Playback ) Born 8-4-1929 in Khandwa - Singer and actor - (He did, "Jhumroo" and "Eena Meena Deeka").

Willis "Gator" Jackson - Died 10-25-1987 in New York, NY, U.S. - Died a week after heart surgery ( R&B - Jazz - Soul ) Born 4-25-1932 in Miami, FL, U.S. - Saxophonist - Was married to singer Ruth Brown.

Woody Herman (Woodrow Charles Herman) - Died 10-29-1987 in Los Angeles, CA, U.S. ( Swing )  Born 5-16-1913 in Milwaukee, WI, U.S. - Saxophonist and clarinetist - (He did,"Four Brothers" and "Early Autumn") - Led The Herd - Charted with 55 hits between 1937 and 1956 - Worked with Tom Gerun, Isham Jones, Harry Sosnik and Gus Arnheim.

Larry Hiller - Died 11-1-1987 ( Sound Engineer ) Born 1932 - Worked with Bessie Smith.

Ted Taylor (Austin Taylor) - Died 11-22-1987 - Car accident ( R&B ) Born 2-16-1934 in Okmulgee, OK, U.S. (He did,"Funky Thing" and "Ollie Mae") Was a member of The Cadets (They did, "Stranded In The Jungle") and The Jacks.

Luke "Long Gone" Miles - Died 11-23-1987  ( Blues ) Born 5-8-1925 in Lachute, Louisiana, U.S. (He did,"Bad Luck" and "Long Gone").

Charline Arthur (Charline Highsmith) - Died 11-27-1987 ( Country ) Born 9-2-1929 in Henrietta, TX, U.S.

Guy Marks (Mario Scarpia) - Died 11-28-1987 ( Comedian - Impressionist ) Born 1923 (He had a novelty hit with "Loving You Has Made Me Bananas").

Molly O'Day (Lois LaVerne Williamson) (aka Mountain Fern and Dixie Lee Williamson) - Died 12-5-1987 - Cancer ( Country ) Born 7-9-1923 in eastern Kentucky, U.S. (She did,"Teardrops Falling In The Snow" and "Poor Ellen Smith") She was a singer for The Forty-Niners.

Fat Larry James - Died 12-5-1987 - Heart attack ( Soul - Disco ) Born 8-2-1949 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S. - Drummer and leader of FLB also known as Fat Larry's Band (They did,"Looking For Love" and "Can't Keep My Hands To Myself") Worked with The Delfonics and Blue Magic.

David Lastie - Died 12-5-1987 ( Jazz - R&B ) Born 11-11-1934 in New Orleans, LA, U.S. - Saxophonist - Worked with Dr. John, Guitar Slim, Jessie Hill, James Booker, Sugarboy Crawford, Smiley Lewis, Eddie Bo, Scotty Hill's French Market Jazz Band and A Taste Of New Orleans.

Dorin Liviu Zaharia - Died 12-3-1987 ( Folk - Rock ) Born 1944 - Singer - Was a member of Olympic '64.

Pappy Daily (Harold W. Daily) - Died 12-5-1987 ( Country ) Born 2-8-1902 in Yoakum, TX, U.S. - He was a record executive and producer - Co-founder of Starday and Musicor Records - Worked with Arlie Duff, George Jones, Claude Gray, James O'Gwynn and Gene Pitney.

Richard Taylor (Richard Alanzo Taylor)( Renamed - Abdul Rashid Talhah ) - Died 12-7-1987 ( Rock ) Born 1940 - Was a member of The Manhattans (They sang, "Kiss And Say Goodbye").

Will Shatter (Russell Wilkinson) - Died 12-9-87 - Accidental heroin overdose ( Punk ) Born 6-10-1956 in San Francisco, CA, U.S. - Singer and bass player for Negative Trend, Flipper (They did, "Way Of The World" and "Sex Bomb") and A3I (Any Three Initials).

Clifton Chenier - King of Zydeco - Died 12-12-1987 in Lafayette, LA, U.S. - Kidney failure and diabetes ( Zydeco ) Born 6-25-1925 in Opelousas, Louisiana, U.S. - Played accordion, harmonica, piano and organ and sang - (He recorded, "Louisiana Blues" and "Black Gal") - Louisiana Blues Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Slam Stewart (Leroy Stewart) - Died 12-12-1987 in Binghampton, NY, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 9-21-1914 in Englewood, NY, U.S. - Bassist - He was half of the duo Slim & Slam with Slim Gaillard (They did, "Flat Foot Floogie") - Worked with Art Tatum, Lester Young, Erroll Garner, Benny Goodman, Don Byas, Charlie Parker, Rose Murphy, Major Holley, Dizzie Gillespie and Roy Eldridge.

Tiny Moore - (Billie Moore) - Died 12-15-1987 in Jackpot, NV, U.S. ( Country ) Born 5-12-1920 in Porth Arthur, TX, U.S. - Mandolin and fiddle player - Worked with The Strangers and Bob Wills And The Texas Playboys -  Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Inductee and Western Music Association Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Warne Marsh (Warne Marion Marsh) - Died 12-18-1987 in North Hollywood, CA, U.S. - While playing on stage ( Jazz ) Born 10-26-1927 in Los Angeles, CA, U.S. - Saxophonist - Worked with Lee Konitz, Hank Jones, Bill Evans, Buddy Rich, Lennie Tristano, Chet Baker and Supersax.

Conny Plank (Konrad Plank) - Died 12-18-1987 in Cologne - Cancer ( Rock ) Born 5-3-1940 in Germany - Played guitar and keyboards - Worked with Guru Guru, Cluster and Os Mundi - Produced or engineered records by Killing Joke, Eurythmics, Brian Eno, Kraftwerk, Devo, Neu! and Ultravox - Founder of Conny's Studio.

John Spence - Died 12-21-1987 - Shot himself ( New Wave - Ska ) Was a member of No Doubt.

Luca Prodan - Died 12-22-1987 in Buenos Aires - Heart attack or cirrhosis of the liver ( Reggae - Rock ) Born 5-17-1953 - Singer - Led Sumo and The Hurlingham Reggae Band.

Ali Baba (Ales Drvota) - Died 12-23-1987 in Budapest, Hungary - Injuries due to a car crash on the way to Brian Eno's concert ( Reggae ) Born 7-28-1954 in Prague, Czechoslovakia - Singer for reggae group Babalet (They did, "Rastaman V Praze", "Rastarock" and "Zelenina").

Nat Tarnopol - Died 12-25-1987 - Heart failure ( Producer ) Born 1-26-1931 in Detroit, MI, U.S. - He produced Jackie Wilson, Lionel Hampton, Al Green and The Chi-Lites.

Ulysses Kae Williams Sr. - Died 12-29-1987 in Philadelphia, PA, U.S. - Born 2-4-1921 in Philadelphia, PA, U.S. - DJ - Managed The Silhouettes ("Get A Job") and The Sensations ("Let Me In") - Father of keyboardist and producer, Kae Williams Jr..

Jimmy Bell - Died 12-31-1987 ( Jazz - Blues ) Born 8-29-1910 in Peoria, IL, U.S. (He did,"Stranger in Your Town") Worked with Ray Charles, Freddie Keppard, Cookie's Gingersnaps, Angelo Fernandez and James Tate.

1988

Kornelia Scholz - Died 1988 - Leukemia - Singer - Was a member of Jawoll (They did, "Taxi" and "Marmelade").

Jack O'Brien (John Anthony O'Brien) - Died 1988 ( Rock ) Born 11-9-1952 in Astoria, Queens, NY, U.S. - Guitarist - Was a member of Hammer (They did, "Hot And Cold" and "Sad Song, Happy Song") and Wormwood Scrubs.

Loughty Lasisi Amao - Died 1988 in New York, U.S. - Shot ( Afro Rock ) Played saxophone and congas - Worked with Osibisa (They did, "Music For Gong-Gong" and "Think About The People").

Franca Raimondi - Died 1988 - Born 7-8-1932 in Monopoli, Italy - Singer - ( She did, "Aprite le finestre").

Danny Brewer - Died 1988 or 1989 - Cancer ( Rock ) Singer and bassist - Was a member of Wakefield Manor.

Rigoberto Rigo Guerrero - Died 1988 ( Rock ) Guitarist - Was a member of Toncho Pilatos (They did, "Kukukkan" and "Blind Man").

Tony Wilkinson - Died 1988 or 1990 - Motorcycle accident ( Rock ) Saxophonist - Was a member of John Evan's Smash with Ian Anderson (They did, "Take The Easy Way Home").

Pearl Dee Jones - Died 1988 ( Country ) (She did,"I Need You So" and "Too Late to Try Again" with her husband Carl Butler).

Nathaniel Carr - Died 1988 ( Gospel ) Singer and concert organizer - Was a member of The Carr Family.

Lester "Jelly" McKenzie - Died 1988 - Complications following surgery - (He wrote The Ponderosa Twins + 1's, "Bound" and  The Elements', "Son-In-Law") - Worked with The Imperial Wonders (They did, "Just A Dream" and "Zip-A-Doe-Doo-Dah").

Leo Kehr - Died 1988 - Car accident ( Rock - R&B ) Born 3-29-1953 - Guitarist - Worked with Interzoneand Curly Curve.

Chris Moorhouse - Died 1988 - Car crash ( Rock ) Bassist - Was a member of Nasty Savage.

Helvetia "Vet" Boswell - Died 11-12-1988 in Peekskill, NY, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 5-20-1911 in Birmingham, AL, U.S. - Was a singer for The Boswell Sisters (They did, "Nights When I'm Lonely") - The Boswell Sisters also did a song in the 1930's called "Rock And Roll", though having nothing to do with its current meaning, shows that the term predated Alan Freed by over twenty years - Vocal Group Hall Of Fame Inductee and Louisiana Music Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Patricia Brox (Kathleen Brock) - Died 1988 (Jazz ) Was a member of The Brox Sisters (They did,"Monkey Doodle Doo" in the Marx Brothers film,"The Cocoanuts" and "Everybody Step").

Gabriel Parra - Died 1988 - Car crash ( Prog Rock ) Drummer - She was a member of Los Jaivas.

Vic Maile - Died 1988 - Cancer ( Producer ) He produced The Hot Rods, The Feelgoods and The
Godfathers.

John Gilston - Died 1988 - Drowned ( Rock ) Was a member of Mike Heron's Reputation.

Reese O'Donnell (Harry Reese O'Donnell) - Died 1988 ( Standards ) Worked with his wife, singer and pianist, Elaine O'Donnell.

Danilo Aponte - Died 1-1-1988 in Caracas, Venezuela - Car crash ( Jazz ) Born 1955 in Caracas, Venezuela - Bassist, double bassist, songwriter and music professor - Led Le Cardiu Jazz Trio - Worked with La Banda de Larry Fenyes (Colegio La Salle Orchestra), Daiquiri, Ilan Chester, Luz Marina, Frank Quintero and The Symphonic National Orchestra Simon Bolivar.

Dave Holocaust (Dave Jannieca) - Died 1-1-1988 - Stabbed by a drunk at a New Years Eve party ( Metal ) Bassist - Was a member of Destructor (They did, "Take Command" and "Iron Curtain").

Sady Courville - Died 1-3-1988 in Mamou, LA, U.S. ( Cajun ) Born 1906 - Fiddler - Worked with his brother-in-law Dennis McGee (They did,"Madame Young" and "My Creole Sweet Mama"), The Mamou Cajun Band, Nathan Abshire and Marc Savoy.

John Dopyera (Jan Dopjera) - Died 1-3-1988 in Grant Pass, OR, U.S. - Born 7-6-1893 in Strazia, Austria-Hungary (now Slovakia) - Played violin - Inventor and entrepreneur - He invented the resonator guitar and contributed to the development of the electric guitar - He was a maker of stringed instruments.

Ray Bauduc - Died 1-8-1988 in Houston, TX, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 6-18-1906 in New Orleans, LA, U.S. - Drummer (He did,"Big Noise From Winnetka" and wrote,"South Rampart Street Parade", both with Bob Haggart) Was a member of The Bob Crosby Orchestra - Worked with the Dorsey Brothers, The Scranton Sirens, Ben Pollack and Jack Teagarden.

Joe Albany (Joseph Albany) - Died 1-12-1988 in New York, NY, U.S. - Upper respiratory failure ( Jazz ) Born 1-24-1924 in Atlantic City, NJ, U.S. - Pianist - Worked with Benny Carter, Georgie Auld, Boyd Raeburn, Joe Venuti, Lester Young, Leo Watson, Charles Mingus and Charlie Parker.

Beulah Bryant - Died 1-29-1988  ( Blues ) Born 2-20-1918 in Dayton, Alabama, U.S.

Matthew MacKenzie (Matthew D. MacKenzie) (aka Matts Ma) - Died 2-?-1988 - Heart attack
while in a coma after a car accident ( Rock ) Singer and guitarist - Was a member of Reddy Teddy - Worked with Willie Alexander and Richard Lloyd.

Rene Hall - Died 2-11-1988 in Los Angeles, CA, U.S. - Heart disease ( Rock ) Born 9-26-1912 in Morgan City, LA, U.S. - Guitarist and arranger - Worked with Bobby Womack, Marvin Gaye, Sam Cooke and Don & Dewey.

John Curulewski (aka JC) - Died 2-13-1988 - Brain aneurysm ( Rock ) Born 10-3-1950 - Guitarist - Was a member of Styx (They did, "Best Thing" and "Lady") - Worked with Spread Eagle and TW4.

Frederick Loewe - Died 2-14-1988 in Palm Springs, CA, U.S. ( Songwriter ) Born 6-10-1901 in Berlin, Germany - Pianist and songwriter - (He wrote, "I Don't Want To Walk Without You" with Jule Styne and "Katrina") - He wrote music for many Broadway shows including Petticoat Fever, My Fair Lady and Camelot - Songwriters Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Al Cohn (Alvin Gilbert Cohn) - Died 2-15-1988 in Stroudsburg, PA, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 11-24-1925 in New York, NY, U.S. - Saxophonist - Worked with Alvino Rey, Woody Herman, Artie Shaw and Buddy Rich.

Happy Fats (Leroy LeBlanc) - Died 2-23-1988 - Diabetes? ( Cajun ) Born 1-30-1915 in Rayne, LA, U.S. - Singer and guitarist (He did,"Dear Mr. President" and "Colinda") He led The Rayne-Bo Ramblers - Worked with Leo Soileu's Rhythm Boys, Joe Falcon, Amedee Breaux and Harry Choates.

Memphis Slim ( aka Peter Chatman and John Len Chatman ) - Died 2-24-1988 - Kidney failure ( Blues ) Born  9-3-1915 in  Memphis, Tennessee, U.S. - Singer and piano player (Wrote, "Every Day, I Have The Blues" and "Beer Drinking Woman") Was the leader of The House Rockers and Memphis Slim and His Solid Band - "Blues Foundation's Hall Of Fame Inductee".

Gene DePaul - Died 2-27-1988 ( Boogie Woogie - Pop - Show Tunes ) Born 6-17-1919 in New York, NY, U.S. (He wrote,"Rockin' And Reelin" and "If I Had My Druthers") Worked with Don Raye, Sammy Cahn and Johnny Mercer - American Songwriter's Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Mickey Shorr - Died 2-27-1988 - Born 3-16-1926 - He recorded break in records - DJ - Was a member of Mickey Shorr & The Cutups (They did,"Dr. Ben Basey") and Spencer & Spencer (They did, "Russian Bandstand") - Worked with Dickie Goodman.

Jo Jo Adams (aka Doctor Jo Jo) - Died 2-27-1988 in Chicago, IL, U.S. ( Blues ) Born circa 1918 in Alabama, U.S. - Singer - (He did, "When I'm In My Tea" and "I Like To Hucklebuck") - Worked with The Big Four Jubilee, Memphis Slim's Houserockers, Melvin Moore's Orchestra, Red Saunders and Floyd Smith's Combo.

Edith Johnson - Died 2-28-1988  ( Blues ) Born 1-2-1903 in St. Louis, Missouri, U.S. - (Recorded, "Can't Make Another Day" and "Eight Hour Woman").

Vaughn Horton (George Vaughn Horton) - Died 2-28-1988 in New Port Richey, FL, U.S. - Heart attack ( Country ) Born 6-5-1911 in Broad Top, PA, U.S. - Was a member of The Pinetoppers (They did, "Mockin' Bird Hill") - Nashville Songwriter's Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Roy Dunn - Died 3-2-1988  ( Blues ) Born 4-18-1922 in Eatonton, Georgia, U.S. (He did,"You're Worrying Me" and "Tired Of Living A Bachelor").

Rob Sterzel - Died 3-3-1988 - Hit and run accident ( Metal ) Bassist - Was a member of Deceased.

Dwight Brock (Dwight Moody Brock) - Died 3-4-1988 ( Gospel ) Born 7-27-1907 in Gadsden, AL, U.S. - Pianist - Was a member of The Frank Stamps Quartet (They did, "Give The World A Smile") - Worked with The Vaughan Radio Quartet and The Brock-Denson Quartet - Was a president of The Stamps-Baxter Music Company -  Southern Gospel Music Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Divine (Harris Glenn Milstead) - Died 3-7-1988 in Los Angeles, CA, U.S. - Combination of his weight and sleep apnea ( Rock - Disco ) Born 10-19-1945 in Towson, MD, U.S. - Actor and singer - (He recorded, "You Think You're A Man" and "Shoot Your Shot") - Appeared in the films, Lust In The Dust and Female Trouble.

Gordon Huntley - Died 3-7-1988 - Cancer ( Rock ) Born 1925 or 1930 - Played pedal steel guitar - Worked with  Matthews Southern Comfort (They did,"Please Be My Friend" and "Once Upon a Lifetime").

Ken Colyer - Died 3-8-1988 ( Skiffle - New Orleans Jazz ) Born 4-18-1928 in Great Yarmouth, Norfolk, England - Member of The Crane River Jazz Band, Ken Colyer's Jazzmen and The All-Star Jazzmen .

Tom Sellers - Died 3-9-1988 - Killed in a fire ( Producer ) Born 12-3-1948 in Philadelphia - Was a member of Gulliver - He formed Assembled Multitude ("Overture From Tommy" and "Medley From Superstar").

Andy Gibb (Andrew Roy Gibb)- Died 3-10-1988 in Oxford, Oxfordshire, England - Inflammatory heart virus ( Pop ) Born 3-5-1958 in Manchester, England - Singer - (He recorded, "I Just Want To Be Your Everything" and "Shadow Dancing") - Brother of The Bee Gees.

Dannie Richmond (Charles D. Richmond) - Died 3-15-1988 in New York, NY, U.S. ( Jazz - R&B ) Born 12-15-1935 in New York, NY, U.S. - Drummer and saxophonist - He fronted The Dannie Richmond Quintet - Worked with Charles Mingus, Chet Baker, Paul Williams, Mark-Almond, Joe Cocker and Elton John.

Billy Butterfield (Charles William Butterfield) - Died 3-18-1988 in North Palm Beach, FL, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 1-14-1917 in Middletown, OH, U.S. - Trumpeter - Worked with Bob Crosby, Artie Shaw, Les Brown, Benny Goodman and Eddie Condon.

Gil Evans (Ian Ernest Gilmore Green) - Died 3-20-1988 ( Jazz ) Born 5-13-1912 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada - (He did, "Priestess" and "Spaced").

Miguel Abuelo (Miguel Angel Peralta) - Died 3-26-1988 in Munro, Buenos Aires, Argentina - Cardiac arrest ( Rock ) Born 3-21-1946 in Munro, Buenos Aires, Argentina - Singer and guitarist - Was a member of Los Abuelos de la Neda (They did, "Diana Divaga" and "Tempa En Flu Sobre El Planeta") and Miguel Abuelo en Banda.

Steve Walsh - Died 4-3-1988 - Horse racing accident or a heart attack ( Pop ) Born 1959 (He did, "I Found Love" and "Lovin").

Candy Green (Clarence Green) - Died 4-3-1988  ( Blues ) Born 3-15-1929 in Galveston, Texas, U.S. - (He did, "Green's Bounce" and "Thunder And Lightning").

Leroy Kirkland - Died 4-6-1998 in New York, NY, U.S. - Born 2-10-1906 in South Carolina, U.S. - Played guitar, ukelele and banjo and was an arranger - Was a member of Doc Wheeler & His Sunset Orchestra - Worked with Erskine Hawkins and Screamin' Jay Hawkins ("I Put A Spell On You").

Dave Prater (Dave Prater Sr.) - Died 4-9-1988 - Car crash ( Soul ) Born 5-9-1937 in Ocilla, Ga, U.S. - Was a member of Sam And Dave ( They recorded, "Hold On, I'm Comin'" and "Soul Man") - Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Brook Benton (Benjamin Franklin Peay) - Died 4-9-1988 in Queens, NY, U.S. - Spinal Meningitis ( Rock - Pop - Gospel ) Born 9-19-1931 in Camden, S.C., U.S. - Singer and songwriter - (He did, "Rainy Night In Georgia" and "Kiddio") - Worked with The Langfordaires, The Sandmen, The Jerusalem Stars, The Golden Gate Quartet and Dinah Washington ("Baby (You've Got What It Takes)").

Gabriel Parra (Gabriel Parra Pizarro) - Died 4-15-1988 in Lima, Peru - Car accident ( Rock ) Born 7-25-1947 in Valparaiso, Chile - Drummer - Was a member of Los Jaivas.

John Banks - Died 4-20-1988 in Tel Aviv, Israel - Throat cancer ( Rock ) Drummer - Born 9-23-1943 in Anfield, Liverpool, Lancashire , England - Drummer - Was a member of The Merseybeats (They did, "It's Love That Really Counts" and "I Think Of You").

Barbara "Sandi" Robison - Died 4-22-1988 - Toxic shock poisoning ( Folk - Rock - R&B ) Born 1945 in Marin County, CA, U.S. -  Lead singer for The Crosswinds, The Ashes, Peanut Butter Conspiracy, and the L.A. Production of Hair.

Carolyn Franklin (Carolyn Ann Franklin)- Died 4-25-1988 - Cancer ( Soul - Songwriter ) Born 5-13-1944 in Memphis, TN, U.S. - (She did, "It's True I Gonna Miss You" and wrote,"I Was Made For You") - She also was a background singer for her sister Aretha Franklin.

George McCoy - Died 4-27-1988 in Belleville, IL, U.S. ( Blues ) Born 12-11-1921 in Booneville, MS, U.S. - Singer and guitarist - (He did, "Red Rooster") - He was half of the duo, George And Ethel McCoy with his sister - Nephew in-law of Memphis Minnie.

B.W. Stevenson (Louis Charles Stevenson) - Died 4-28-1988 - After heart surgery - Born 10-5-1949 (Recorded, "My Maria" and the original, "Shambala").

Lor Crane - Died 4-28-1988 - Born 1935 - Producer - (Co-wrote, "White On White") - He produced Chad & Jeremy.

Claude Demetrius - Died 5-1-1988 in New York, NY, U.S. - Born 8-3-1917 in Bath, ME, U.S. - Songwriter - (Co-wrote, "Ain't That Just Like A Woman") - He wrote songs for Elvis Presley, Louis Jordan, B.B. King, Jimmy Witherspoon, Rick Nelson and Louis Armstrong.

Billo Frometa (Luís Maria Frometa Pereira) - Died 5-5-1988 in Caracas, Venezuela - Head injury ( Tropical ) Born 11-15-1915 in Santo Domingo, Republica Dominicana - Director, composer and arranger - He founded Billo's Caracas Boys.

Howie Johnson - Died 5-5-1988 - Cancer ( Rock ) Born 1938 in Washington (State), U.S. - Was a drummer for The Ventures (They recorded, "No Trespassing" and Mr. Moto").

Paul Wilson (Paul David Wilson) - Died 5-6-1988 ( Doo-Wop - R&B ) Born 1-6-1935 in Chicago, Ill. U.S - Singer - Was a member of The Flamingos ("If I Can't Have You" and "Golden Teardrops") - Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Nappy Lamare - Died 5-8-1988 in Newhall, CA, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 6-14-1907 in New Orleans, LA, U.S. - Singer, guitarist and banjo player - Worked with Bob Crosby's Bobcats, Johnny Bayersdorffer Jazzola Novelty Orchestra, Monk Hazel, Ben Pollack, John Hyman's Bayou Stompers, Bob Crosby, Sharkey Bonano, The New Orleans Owls and Ray Bauduc.

Ciaron Bourke - Died 5-10-1988 - Illness ( Irish Folk ) Born 2-18-1935 in Dublin, Ireland - Played guitar, tin whistle and sang - Was a member ofThe Dubliners.

Chet Baker (Chesney Henry Baker) - Died 5-13-1988 in Amsterdam - Fell or was pushed out a window ( Jazz ) Born 12-23-1929 in Yale, OK, U.S. - Played trumpet - Was a member of The Gerry Mulligan Quartet.

J.C. Burris - Died 5-16-1988  ( Blues ) Born 3-15-1928 in Kings Mountain, North Carolina, U.S. - (He did, "River Of Life" and "You Keep Doggin' Me").

Daws Butler (Charles Dawson Butler) - Died 5-18-1988 in Los Angeles, CA, U.S. - Heart attack - Born 11-16-1916 in Toledo, Ohio, U.S. - Voice Artist - Was the voice of many catoon chacters including Huckleberry Hound, Yogi Bear, Quick Draw Mc Graw, Snagglepuss - (He did, "Bingo, Ringo" a Beatles related song as Huckleberry Hound) - Worked with Paul Frees.

Dick Jacobs - Died 5-20-1988 - Cancer - Born 3-29-1918 in New York, NY, U.S. - Orchestra leader - Music Director -  (He had had hits with, "Fascination" and "Theme From East Of Eden") - Worked on "Your Hit Parade" - Worked with Xavier Cugat, Bobby Darin and Louis Armstrong.

Harry Babasin (aka The Bear) - Died 5-21-1988 in Los Angeles, CA, U.S. - Emphysema ( Jazz ) Born 3-19-1921 in Dallas, TX, U.S. - Bassist - Led Harry Babasin And The Jazzpickers - Worked with Bill Ware's Orchestra, The Charlie Fisk Orchestra,  Bob Strong, Billie Rogers, Jimmy Joy,Gene Krupa, Benny Goodman, Woody Herman, Charlie Barnet, Jerry Gray, Boyd Raeburn, Frank DeVol and The Dodo Marmarosa Trio.

Dennis Day (Owen Patrick McNulty) - Died 5-22-1988 ( Pop ) Born 1916 in New York, NY, U.S. - Singer.

Jack Teagarden Jr. (Jack W. Teagarden Jr.) - Died 5-22-1988 ( Musician ) Born 12-5-1925 - Son of Jack Teagarden Sr.

Emanuel Paul - Died 5-23-1988 ( Jazz ) Born 2-2-1904 - Played saxophone and banjo - Worked with The Eureka Brass Band, Kid Thomas Valentine, Emmanuel Sayles and The Olympia Brass Band.

Monte Kay - Died 5-25-1988 ( Producer ) Worked with Tony Williams' Lifetime, Kenny Rankin and Gram Parsons.

Sy Oliver (Melvin James Oliver) - Died 5-28-1988 in New York, NY, U.S. ( Swing ) Born 12-17-1910 in Battle Creek, MI, U.S. - Trumpeter and singer - Worked with Jimmy Lunceford ("Tain't What You Do" and "Organ Grinder's Swing"), Tommy Dorsey ("On the Sunny Side Of The Street") and Alphonse Trent.

Ricky May - Died 5-31-1988 ( Pop ) Singer.

Rick Canoff - Died 6-?-1988 - Illness ( Rock ) Played saxophone - Was a member of Flock (They did,"I Am The Tall Tree" and "Store Bought-Store Thought").

Blind Jimmy Brewer - Died 6-3-1988  ( Blues ) Born 10-3-1921 in Brookhaven, Mississippi, U.S. (He did,"I Don't Want No Woman If She Got Hair Like Drops Of Rain" and "I Want To Know Why").

Jimmy Soul (James Louis McCleese) - Died 6-15-1988 in Spring Valley, New York, U.S. - Drug related heart attack ( R&B ) Born 8-24-1942 in Weldon, NC, U.S. - (He did, "If You Wanna Be Happy" and "Twistin' Matilda").

John Jordan - Died 6-16-1988 ( R&B ) Born 11-7-1913 - Was a lead singer for The Four Vagabonds (They did,"It Can't Be Wrong").

Kim Milford (Richard Kim Milford)  - Died 6-16-1988 - Heart failure after surgery ( Singer - Composer - Actor ) Born 2-7-1952 in Glen Ridge, New Jersey, U.S. - Was in the Rocky Horror Picture Show, Hair, Jesus Christ Superstar, Rock-A-Die, Baby, Wired To Kill and Laserblast - Was a musical composer for the movie Ciao! Manhattan - Recorded with Keith Moon and Jeff Beck - He was the brother of actress Penelope Milford.

Sallie Martin - Mother of gospel music - Died 6-18-1988 in Chicago, IL, U.S. ( Gospel ) Born 11-20-1895 in Pittfield, GA, U.S. - Singer - Led The Sallie Martin Singers - Worked with Thomas A. Dorsey, Dinah Washington and Brother Joe May - Co-creator of Martin And Morris Music, Inc. publishing house - Adopted mother of singer, Dr. Cora Martin-Moore - Gospel Music Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Jesse Ed Davis (Jesse Edwin Davis III) - Died 6-23-1988 in Venice Beach, Los Angeles, California, U.S. - Heroin overdose ( Rock ) Born 9-21-1944 in Norman, Oklahoma, U.S. - Session guitarist - Worked with The Graffiti Band, Conway Twitty, Taj Mahal, Steve Miller, Harry Nilsson, Ry Cooder, Neil Diamond, David Cassidy, Albert King, Willie Nelson, Gram Parsons, Gene Clark, John Lennon, The Monkees, Keith Moon, Bob Dylan, John Fogerty, Jackson Browne, Ringeo Starr, Rod Stewart, The Faces, George Harrison and played at the Concert for Bangladesh - Oklahoma Jazz Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Hillel Slovak - Died 6-27-1988 - Heroin overdose ( Rock ) Born 4-13-62 - Guitar player for The Red Hot Chilli Peppers (They did, "Fight Like A Brave" and "Skinny Sweaty Man") - Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Eddie "Cleanhead" Vinson - Died 7-2-1988  - Heart attack while getting chemotherapy ( Blues Shouter - Jazz ) Born 12-18-1917 in Houston, Texas. U.S. - (He did, "Cleanhead Blues") - He was a member of The Cootie Williams Orchestra (They did, "Cherry Red") - He also recorded with Roomful Of Blues.

John Bliss - Died 7-7-1988 - Heart attack ( Rock - Punk ) Born 1956 - Was the drummer for  Reels (They did, "Baby's In The Know " and "Misused, Abused"), Marina Swingers and Powertrip.

Nico (Christa Paffgen) - Died 7-18-1988 in Ibiza, Spain - Brain hemorrhage due to a fall off a bicycle ( Rock - Avant Guard - Goth ) Born 10-16-1938 in Cologne, Germany - Model, actress and singer - (She did, "I'll Keep It With Mine" and a cover of "The End") - Was a member of The Velvet Underground (They did, " Femme Fatale" and "All Tomorrow's Parties") - Worked with Brian Eno, John Cale, Jackson Browne, Kevin Ayers, Phil Manzanera, Tim Hardin, Tim Buckley, Ramblin' Jack Elliot, Brian Jones, Jimmy Page and Tiny Tim.

Priscilla Bowman - Died 7-24-1988 - Lung cancer ( Blues ) Born 1928 - Singer.

Pete Drake (Roddis Franklin Drake) - Died 7-29-1988 - Complications of lung disease ( Rock ) Born 10-8-1932 - Pedal steel guitar player - Recorded with Elvis Presley, Bob Dylan and George Harrison.

Mark Groseclose - Died 7-29-1988 ( Surf ) He was 42 years old - Drummer - Worked with The Jaguars, David Marks And The Marksmen (They did, "Do You Know What Lover’s Say" and "Food Fair") and The Beach Boys.

Bull Moose Jackson (Benjamin Clarence Jackson) - Died 7-31-1988  - Cancer ( Blues - R & B ) Born 4-22-1919 in Cleveland, Ohio, U.S. - (He did, "I Love You, Yes I Do" and "Big Ten Inch Record") - Was a member of The Harlem Hotshots, The Buffalo Bearcats and The Flashcats (They recorded, "Get Off The Table Mable (The Two Dollars Is For The Beer)").

Tenor Saw (Clive Bright) - Died 8-?-1988 in Houston, TX, U.S. - Hit by a car ( Reggae ) Born 2-11-1966 in Kingston, Jamaica - Singer and songwriter - (He did, "Roll Call" and "Ring The Alarm") - Worked with General Doggie.

Felix Leclerc - Died 8-8-1988 on the lle d'Orleans, Quebec, Canada ( Folk - Chanson ) Born 8-2-1914 in La Tuque, Quebec, Canada - Singer, songwriter and guitarist - (He wrote, "Notre Sentier" and "Le train du Nord") - Canadian Songwriters Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Jean-Michel Basquiat - Died 8-12-1988 in New York, NY, U.S. - Heroin overdose ( Hip Hop ) Born 12-22-1960 in Brooklyn, New York, U.S. - As an artist he collaborated with Andy Warhol -  Was a member of Gray.

Roy Buchanan - Died 8-14-1988 in Fairfax, VA, U.S. - Hanged himself in a police cell ( Blues - Rock ) Born 9-23-1939 in Ozark, Arkansas, U.S. - Guitarist - (He did, "Five String Blues" and "My Baby Says She's Gonna Leave Me") - Led The Heartbeats.

Fred Below - Died 8-14-1988 in Chicago, IL, U.S. - Cancer ( Blues - Jazz - R&B ) Born 9-16-1926 in Chicago, IL, U.S. - Drummer - Was a member of  Little Walter And The Four Aces later renamed The Jukes - Worked with The Platters, The Moonglows, Bo Diddley, The Drifters, John Lee Hooker, Howlin' Wolf and others.

Robert Calvert - Died 8-14-1988 in Kent, England - Heart attack ( Heavy Space Rock - Rock ) Born 4-9-1944 in Pretoria, South Africa - (He did, "Volstead O Vodeo Do" and "Lay Of The Surfers") - Was a member of Hawkwind (They did, "Silver Machine" and "Born To Go") - Worked with Brian Eno.

Christine Nelson - Died 8-15-1988 in Los Angeles, CA, U.S. - Cancer - Born 4-20-1926 in New York, U.S. - Singer and comedian - She recorded with Alan Sherman ("Sarah Jackman") - Appeared on TV's, Milton Berle's Texaco Star Theater and The Ray Bolger Show.

Leon McAuliffe (William Leon McAuliffe) - Died 8-20-1988 in Tulsa, OK, U.S. ( Western Swing ) Born 1-3-1917 in Houston, TX, U.S. - Played steel guitar - Was a member of The Waikiki Strummers, The Light Crust Doughboys, Bob Wills' Texas Playboys (They did, "Steel Guitar Rag") and The Cimarron Boys (They did, "Panhandle Rag") - Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Inductee, Western Music Association Hall Of Fame Inductee and Steel Guitar Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Ferdi Karmelk (Ferdinand Karmelk)- Died 8-20-1988 - Aids ( Rock ) Born 6-1-1950 - Guitarist and singer - Worked with Wild Romance, James Mean, Vitesse and The Tee Set ("Who Are You Thinking Of Now" and "Powerful Emotions") - He had a daughter with Nina Hagen.

Teddy Diaz - Died 8-21-1988 - Stabbed ( Rock ) Born 4-1-1963 - Was a guitarist for The Dawn (They did, "Dreams" and "Susi").

Papa Dee Allen (Thomas Sylvester Allen) - Died 8-30-1988 - Heart attack ( Rock ) Born 7-19-1931 in Wilmington, Delaware, U.S. - Percussionist - Worked with The Nightshift and War (They did, "Slippin' Into Darkness" and "Cisco Kid").

James Black - Died 8-30-1988 ( Jazz ) Born 2-1-1940 in New Orleans, LA, U.S. - Drummer - Worked with Yusef Lateef, Finger Eleven and Gangajang.

Herman Barrier - Died 9-5-1988 ( Country ) Born 1-23-1920 in Hardin County, TN, U.S. - Was one of The Barrier Brothers.

Lawrence Brown - Died 9-5-1988 ( Jazz )  Born 8-3-1907 in Lawrence, KS, U.S. - Trombonist - Played for The Duke Ellington's Orchestra ("The Sheik Of Araby" and "Rose Of The Rio Grande") - Worked with Johnny Hodges, Paul Howard and Louis Armstrong.

Big Ike Darby - Died 9-6-1988  ( Blues ) Born 12-7-1929 in Philadelphia, Mississippi, U.S. - (He did, "Cryin' The Blues" and "Your Love Is Like A Checker Game").

Autry Inman (Robert Autry Inman) - Died 9-6-1988 in Tennessee, U.S. ( Country ) Born 1-6-1929 in Florence, AL, U.S. - Singer, songwriter and guitarist - (Had hits with, "Ballad Of Two Brothers" and "That's All Right") - Led Autry Inman And The Inmates - Worked with Cowboy Copas.

Charlie Palmieri (Carlos Manuel Palmieri) - Giant of the black and whites- Died 9-12-1988 in the Bronx, NY, U.S. - Heart attack ( Salsa ) Born 11-21-1926 in New York City, NY, U.S. - Pianist and director - (He did, "Vista Hace Fe" and "Gigante del Teclado") - Worked with Pupi Campos' Orchestra and Tito Puente.

Alan Hawking - Died 9-19-1988 ( Country ) Born 7-7-1933 - Sang and played guitar, banjo and autoharp - Was one of The Hawking Brothers (They did, "One Day At A Time" and " Yackity Axe") - Worked with The Trailblazers.

Tim Davis - Died 9-20-1988 ( Rock ) Born 11-29-1943 in Milwaukee - Singer and drummer - (Had a hit with, "Buzzy Brown").

J.C. Heard (James Charles Heard) - Died 9-27-1988 in Royal Oak, MI, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 10-8-1917 in Dayton, OH, U.S. - Drummer - Worked with Teddy Wilson, Erroll Garner, Coleman Hawkins, Benny Carter and Cab Calloway.

Benny Joy (Benjamin Eidson)- Died 10-?-1988 ( Rockabilly ) Born 11-5-1935 in Atlanta, Georgia, U.S. - (He did, "Spin The Bottle" and "Crash The Party") - Worked with Hank Garland, Boots Randolph and Buddy Harman.

Zenas Sears - Died 10-4-1988 - Born 7-14-1913 - Producer - Worked with Ray Charles, Dave McRae, Paul West and Wendell Marshall.

Billy Daniels - Died 10-7-1988 ( Jazz - Pop ) Born 9-12-1915 in Jacksonville, FL, U.S. - (He sang, "That Old Black Magic" and "Lady Of The Evening") - Worked with Andy Kirk, Erskine Hawkins and Stuff Smith.

Harold Dorman - Died 10-8-1988 ( Rockabilly ) Born 12-23-1926 in Drew MS, U.S. - (He had a hit with, "Mountain Of Love").

Cliff Gallup (Clifton Elwood Gallup)- Died 10-9-1988 - Heart Attack ( Rock ) Born 6-17-1930 - Guitarist for Gene Vincent And The Blue Caps (They did, "Race With The Devil").

Alex Gottlieb - Died 10-9-1988 in Los Angeles, CA, U.S. - Born 12-21-1906 in Zhitomir, Russia - Wrote songs for Eddie Cantor and Al Jolson - Produced and wrote for musical movies including Gidget and Frankie And Johnnie.

Son House (Eddie James House Jr.) - Died 10-19-1988 - Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease ( Blues ) Born 3-21-1902 in Riverton, Mississippi, U.S. - (He did, "Preachin' The Blues") - Blues Foundation's Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Johnnie Louise Richardson - Died 10-25-1988 in New York, NY, U.S. - Stroke ( R&B ) Born 6-29-1945 in Montgomery, AL, U.S. - Was half of Johnnie & Joe (They had a hit with, "Over The Mountain, Across The Sea") and The Jaynettes (They did, "Sally Go Round The Roses").

Cathy Carr (Angelina Helen Catherine Cordovano) Died 11-?-1988 ( Pop ) Born 6-28-1936 in New York City, NY, U.S. - (She had a hit with, "Ivory Tower" and charted with "First Anniversary" and "Heart Hideaway").

Jeffrey Bozsan - Died 11-2-1988 in Stamford, CT, U.S. - Suicide ( Rock - Jazz ) Born 7-25-1955 in Pittsburgh, PA, U.S. - Guitarist - Worked with John Bayley, Chuck Rainey and Rick Derringer.

King David Odom - 11-5-1988 ( R&B ) Born 1918 - Singer - Was the leader of King Odom Quartet.

Paul Clinch (aka Paul Paul Craig) - Died 11-8-1988 ( Pop ) (He did, "Welcome To My Daydream") - Was a guitarist and singer for The Magic Cycle (They did, "Let's Run Away"), The Cycle and Choya (They did, "Linda Write Me A Letter").

Marcia Vance -  Died 11-8-1988 in New York, NY, U.S. ( R&B ) She was 48 years old - Managed The Jive Five - Was an editor and writer for Bim Bam Boom magazine and part owner of Yesterday's Memories magazine.

Black Randy (Jon Morris) (aka Jackie Morris) - Died 11-11-1988 in California, U.S. - Aids ( Punk ) Born 1-5-1952 - Singer - Was the leader of Black Randy And The Metro Squad ( They did, "I Wanna Be A Narc" and "Idi Amin").

Big Mike Gordon (aka Mr. Jelly Belly) - Died 11-17-1988 in Boston, MA, U.S. - Born 12-31-1922 in Santo Domingo - Drummer and singer - Led Mike Gordon & The El Tempos (They did, "Why Don't You Do Right" and "You Got To Give") - Worked with The Calypso Serenaders and The Afro Cubanaires.

Janet Ertel (Janet Ertel Bleyer) - Died 11-22-1988 - Cancer - Born 9-21-1913 in Sheboygen, Wisconsin, U.S. - Was a member of The Chordettes (They did, "Born To Be With You" and "Mr. Sandman").

Victor Gamez - Died 11-24-1988 in Valencia, Carabobo State, Venezuela ( Pop - Rock ) Born 1946 in Caracas, Venezuela - Singer - Was a member of Los Darts (They did, "Jesucristo").

Bobbi Brat - Died 11-30-1988 - Cancer ( Punk ) Born 7-14-1962 - Singer and songwriter - She was a member of Red Scare (They did, "Don't Look In The Basement" and "Last Request").

Pannonica de Koenigswarter (Kathleen Annie Pannonica Rothschild) (aka Nica, the Bebop Baroness and the Jazz Baroness) - Died 11-30-1988 - Born 12-10-1913 - Allowed jazz artists to play and live at her home and would chauffeur them to gigs - Her book, "Three Wishes: An Intimate Look At Jazz Greats" asks the question, "What are your three wishes?" of 300 musicians and is accompanied by photographs she took of them.

Tata Giacobetti (Giovanni Giacobetti) - Died 12-2-1988 in Rome, Italy ( Jazz ) Born 6-24-1922 in Rome, Italy - Singer and lyricist - Was a member of Quartetto Ritmo which later became Quartetto Cetra (They did, "Il Visconte di Castelfombrone" and "In un palco della Scala").

Roy Orbison (Roy Kelton Orbison) (aka The Big O) - Died 12-6-1988 in Hendersonville, TN, U.S. - Heart attack ( Pop - Rock ) Born 4-23-1936 in Vernon, Texas, U.S. - Singer, songwriter and guitarist - (He did, "Oh Pretty Woman" and "Only the Lonely") - Led The Wink Westerners who were renamed The Teen Kings - Worked with The Traveling Wilburys, Tom Waits, Bruce Springsteen, Jennifer Warnes, k.d. Lang, Elvis Costello, Bonnie Raitt, Jeff Lynne, Jackson Browne and Emmylou Harris - Songwriters Hall Of Fame Inductee, Nashville Songwriters Hall Of Fame Inductee and Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Herbert "Tubo" Rhoad - Died 12-8-1988 - Anneurism ( Soul ) Born 10-1-1944 in Bamberg, SC, U.S. - Was a singer for The Persuasions (They did remakes of, "Don't It Make You Want To Go Home" and "Another Night With The Boys").

Alphus LeFevre - Died 12-9-1988 in Atlanta, GA, U.S. ( Gospel ) Born 3-2-1912 in Smithville, Tennessee, U.S. - Singer, songwriter, composer, arranger, pianist, accordianist, guitarist, and violinist - Was a member of The LeFevre Trio and The Bible Training School Quartet - Gospel Music Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Bill Harris (William Harris)- Died 12-10-1988 - Cancer of the pancreas ( R&B ) Born 4-14-1925 - Guitar player for the Clovers (They recorded, "Hey Miss Fannie" and "Ting Aling").

Sylvester (Sylvester James) - Died 12-16-1988 - A.I.D.S. ( Funk - Disco ) Born 9-6-1947 in Los Angeles, California, U.S. - (He did, "You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real)" and "Dance (Disco Heat)") - Was a member of The Cockettes .

Paul Jeffreys (Paul Avron Jeffreys) - Died 12-21-1988 - Pan Am Flight 103 terrorist bombing ( Rock ) Born 1952 - Was a bassist for Cockney Rebel (They did, "Red Is A Mean, Mean Colour" and "What Ruthy Said") - Worked with Be Bop Deluxe and Chartreuse.

Pat Hoffmaster - Died 12-31-1988 ( Gospel ) Born 7-7-1948 - Singer - Worked with The Blackwood Brothers.

1989

Eloe Omoe (Leroy Taylor) - Died 1989 ( Jazz ) Born 1949 - Played bass clarinet, bassoon and oboe - Worked with Sun Ra.

Louis Barron - Died 1989 ( Electronic ) Born 1920 - Composer - He and his wife Bebe created the score for film, Forbidden Planet.

Bill Moore - Died 1989 ( Rock - R&B - Country ) Guitarist - Worked with Ivey's League and Joel Mathis & Countryside.

Bill Putnam - Died 1989 - Born in 1920 in Danville, IL, U.S. - Audio engineer, producer and studio designer - Developed the first multi-band audio equalizer - Ran Universal Recording Electronics Industries and Universal Recording Studio - Worked with Patti Page, Dinah Washington, Vic Damone, Duke Ellington, Little Walter, Sarah Vaughan and Count Basie.

Prosper Niang - Died 1989 ( Afro Beat - Jazz ) Drummer - Was a member of Xalam.

J.D. (Jim Boggs) - Died 1989 or 1990 ( Rock ) Bassist and singer - Worked with Tennis Shoe Review, Alan Meyer, Buffalo Clancy, Rock-Ola,The Great Pretenders and Wakefield Manor.

Stuart K. Hine - Died 1989 ( Gospel ) Born 1899 in England - Songwriter and publisher - (He wrote, "How Great Thou Art" and "What Can Cleanse My heart?") - Gospel Music Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Ken Trader - Died 1989 ( Rock ) Singer and guitarist - Was a member of Short Sirkit.

Dee Ewing (Demetrius Ewing) - Died 1989 - Born 10-31-1909 in Clarksville, TN, U.S. - Played clarinet and saxophone - Was a member of The Royal Syncopators - Worked with Paul Stuart.

Joanne Sage - Died 1989 ( Musician ) - She managed The Roseland Ballroom in Monterey - Wife of piano restorer and a big band arranger, A. Lee Sage and mother of jazz pianist and piano restorer, Gary Sage.

Fritz Matzka - Died 1989 - Illness ( Rock ) Drummer - Worked with Tokyo,  Wolfgang Ambros, Georg Danzer and Jojo.

Clare Clark - Died 1989 - Musician - Was a member of The Happy Fiddlers.

Angie Bokeko - Died 1989 - Cancer ( Rock ) He led Angie And The Strangers and Angie And The Citations - Was a member of The Emeralds.

Eric Li - Died 1989 - Drug overdose ( New Wave ) Was a keyboardist for The Marbles (They did, "Red Lights" and "Fire And Smoke").

Richard Dyer - Died 1989 ( Jazz ) Singer and trumpet player - Worked with The Tony Pastor Band (They did,"Bell Bottom Trousers" and "Walk A Little, Talk A Little") Was married to singer Ruth McCullough Dyer.

John David Perkins (aka Aaron Perkins) - Died 1989 ( Rock ) Sang and played harmonica and drums - Was a member of The Shags.

Dallas Royal (aka Digger) - Died 1989 ( Heavy Metal ) Born in Sydney, Australia - Was a drummer for Rose Tattoo (They did,"Assault and Battery" and "Rock And Roll Is King").

John Rainey Adkins - Died 1989 ( Rock ) Born 12-31-1941 in Dothan, Alabama, U.S. - Guitarist - Was a member of The Webs - Worked with Roy Orbison ("Pretty Woman"), The Candymen and Promise.

Ron Morgan - Died 1989 ( Rock ) Born 6-8-1945 in Colby, Kansas, U.S. - Guitarist - Worked with Morgan's Marauders, Peter & The Wolves, The West Coast Pop Art Experimental Band, Zephyr, SuperBand, The Wild Ones, The Electric Prunes and Three Dog Night.

Gordon McLaren - Died 1-?-1989 ( Rock ) Bassist - Was a member of The Groupies (They did, "Primitive" and a remake of, "I'm A Hog For You") - He had been married to GTOs singer, Miss Lucy Offerall.

Skip Carter (Andrew Robinson Carter) - Died 1-?-1989 in Florida, U.S. ( Broadcasting Pioneer ) Born 1919 in Savannah, GA, U.S. - Started The Carter Broadcast Group which owns KPRS, the oldest African-American owned radio station in America - The Carter Broadcasting Group also operates a gospel station and a sports radio program - Radio Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Eddie Heywood (Edward Heywood Jr.) - Died 1-2-1989 ( Jazz ) Born 12-4-1915 in Atlanta, GA, U.S.  - Pianist - (He had hits with, "Soft Summer Breeze" and "Canadian Sunset") Worked with Billy Holiday, Coleman Hawkins ("The Man I Love"), Doc Cheatham and Vic Dickenson.

Alvin "Bobby" Baylor - Died 1-4-1989 - Pneumonia ( Doo-Wop - R&B ) Born 10-27-1935 - Singer for The Solitaires (They did, "The Wedding" and "The Honeymoon"), The Chances and The Mello-Moods.

Pino Calvi - Died 1-4-1989 in Palazzina di Castana, Pavia, Italy ( Jazz - Pop - Soundtracks ) Born 1-12-1930 in Voghera, Pavia, Italy - Pianist and songwriter - He wrote songs for Johnny Dorelli and Teddy Reno and soundtracks for movies and TV - Worked with Leo Chiosso.

John Scargall - Died 1-6-1989 - Cancer ( Rock ) Was the bass player for The Riot Rockers.

Brunon Kryger Jr. (aka Bruce Kryger) - Died 1-13-1989 ( Polka ) He was 55 years old - Played accordion - Was a member of The Kryger Brothers Band (They did, "Mary On A Bike" and "The Boys From Wilkes-Barre") -  International Polka Music Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Patti Barnes - Died 1-17-1989 -Cancer - Was a singer for The Pony-Tails ( They sang, "Born Too Late").

Whistling Alex Moore - Died 1-20-1989 ( Blues ) Born 11-22-1899 in Dallas, Texas, U.S. - (He did, "Across The Atlantic Ocean" and "Black Eyed Peas And Hog Jowls").

Steven Brown - Died 1-20-1989 ( R&B ) Born 1-9-1941 in New York City, NY, U.S. - Was a singer for The Charts (They did, "Deserie").

Billy Tipton (Dorothy Lucille Tipton) - Died 1-21-1989 in Spokane, Washington, U.S. - Hemorrhaging ulcer ( Jazz ) Born 12-29-1914 in Oklahoma City - Sax and piano player - Worked with Jack Teagarden, Bernie Cummins, Scott Cameron and Ross Carlyle.

Steve Wahrer - Died 1-21-1989 - Throat cancer ( Surf Rock ) Born 11-22-1941 - Was a drummer and singer for The Trashmen (They did, "Sufin Bird" and "Bird Diddley Beat").

Alvin "Shine" Robinson - Died 1-25-1989 in New Orleans, LA U.S. ( R&B ) Born 12-22-1937 in New Orleans, LA, U.S. - Guitarist and singer - (He did, "Down Home Girl" and "How Can I Get Over You") - Worked with Dr. John, Professor Longhair, Ringo Starr and Carly Simon.

Donnie Elbert - Died 1-26-1989 in Philadelphia, PA, U.S. - Stroke ( R&B - Soul ) Born 5-25-1936 in New Orleans, LA, U.S. (He did, "What Can I Do" and "Where Did Our Love Go") - Was a member of the Vibraharps.

Paul Robi - Died 2-1-1989 - Pancreatic cancer ( Rock ) Born 8-20-1931 in New Orleans, Louisiana, U.S. - Was a member of The Platters (They did, "You'll Never, Never Know" and "One In A Million") Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Inductee.

Blaze Foley (Michael David Fuller) - Died 2-1-1989 in Austin, Texas, U.S. - Born 1949 in Marfa - Shot while trying to stop a fight - Singer and songwriter - (He wrote, "If I Could Only Fly" and "Clay Pigeons") - Worked with The Fuller Family, Townes Van Zandt and Calvin Russell - His songs have been recorded by Merle Haggard, John Prine and Lyle Lovett.

Lionel Newman - Died 2-3-1989 in Los Angeles, CA, U.S. - Born 1-4-1916 in New Haven, CT, U.S. - Composer, pianist and conductor - He scored over 250 movies soundtracks and charted with, "Theme From The Proud Ones" - He also was an accompanist for Mae West - Brother of composer Alfred Newman and the uncle of musician Randy Newman.

Jethro Burns (Kenneth C. Burns) - Died 2-4-1989 - Cancer ( Country  - Comedy ) Born 3-10-1920 in Knoxville, TN, U.S. - Played the mandolin - He was half of the duo Homer & Jethro (They did, "The Battle Of Kookamonga" and "How Much Is That Hound Dog In The Window").

Joe Raposo (Joseph Guilherme Raposo Jr. - Died 2-5-1989 in Bronxville, NY, U.S. - Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma -  Born 2-8-1937 in Fall River, MA, U.S. - Songwriter, pianist and lyricist - (He wrote, "Bein' Green" and Frank Sinatra's, "There Used To Be A Ballpark" and the themes for TV's, Three's Company and Sesame Street) - He also wrote music for Dr. Seuss productions and children's TV, The Electric Company.

King Tubby (Osborne Ruddock) - Died 2-6-1989 - Shot outside of his home( Reggae Producer ) Born 1-28-1941 Kingston, Jamaica - Worked with Bunny Lee, Robbie Shakespeare, Tommy McCook, Bobby Ellis, Sly Dunbar, Carlton "Carlie" Barrett and Earl "Chinna" Smith.

Hip Linkchain (Willie Richard) (aka Hipstick) - Died 2-13-1989 in Chicago, IL, U.S. - Cancer ( Blues ) Born 11-10-1936 in Jackson, MS, U.S. - Guitarist and singer - (He did, "Change My Blues" and "That Will Never Do") - Was a member of The Chicago Twisters - Worked with Lester Davenport, Dusty Brown, Tyrone Davis and Willie Foster.

Trevor Lucas - Died 2-14-1989 - Heart attack ( Folk Rock - British Folk ) Born 12-25-1943 in Bungaree, Australia - Was a guitarist for Fotheringay (They did, "Ballad of Ned Kelly"), Fairport Convention (They did, "Restless") and  Eclection (They did, "Will Tomorrow Be the Same") - Worked with  the Strawbs, Richard Thompson, Al Stewart, and Stefan Grossman - Was married to Sandy Denny.

Vincent Crane (Vincent Cheesman) - Died 2-14-1989 - Suicide ( Rock ) Born 5-21-1943 in Reading Berkshire  - Was an organist for The Crazy World of Arthur Brown  (They did, "Fire"), Atomic Rooster (They did, "Friday 13th" and "Devil's Answer") and Dexy's Midnight Runners .

Wick Larsen - Died 2-14-1989 - Diabetic coma ( Southern Rock ) Guitarist - Worked with Wet Willie (They did, "Shotgun Man" and "Red Hot Chicken").

Roy Eldridge (David Roy Eldridge) (aka Little Jazz) - Died 2-26-1989 in Valley Stream, NY, U.S. - Heart failure ( Jazz ) Born 1-30-1911 in Pittsburgh, PA, U.S. - Trumpeter (He did, "Heckler's Hop" and "Wabash Stomp") - Played for The Nighthawk Syncopators, Benny Carter, Johnny Hodges, Ella Fitzgerald, Fletcher Henderson ("Christopher Columbus"), Anita O'Day ("Let Me Off Uptown") and others.

Melvin Moore - Died on 2-26-1989 ( Jazz - R&B ) Born 10-31-1917 in Oklahoma City, OK, U.S. - Played trumpet and sang - Worked with Jo-Jo Adams, Annisteen Allen ("No One Else Could Be"),  Lucky Millinder's Band ("The Grape Vine"), Johnny Otis, Sugarcane Harris, Roy Milton, Lowell Fulson, B.B. King, Roy Brown and T-Bone Walker.

Tina Allori - Died 2-27-1989 in Amatrice, Rieti, Italy - Born 10-12-1924 in Poggio a Caiano, Prato, Italy - Singer - (She did, "Notte e dì" and "Fiorin fiorello (l'amore e bello vicino a te)").

Al Bennett (Alvin S. Bennett) - Died 3-?-1989 - Born 9-21-1926 - Record executive - Worked at worked at Dot Records and Liberty Records - Was the owner of Cream Records and Hi Records - Lent his name for Alvin of The Chipmunks.

Odie Payne - Died 3-1-1989 in Chicago, IL, U.S. ( Blues ) Born 8-27-1926 in Chicago, IL, U.S. - Drummer - Worked with Sonny Boy Williamson II, Muddy Waters, Jimmy Rogers, Eddie Taylor, Johnny Jones, Tampa Red, The Broomdusters, Otis Rush, Yank Rachell, Sleepy John Estes, Little Brother Montgomery, Memphis Minnie, Magic Sam and Buddy Guy.

Tiny Grimes (Lloyd Grimes) - Died 3-4-1989 in New York, NY, U.S. - Meningitis ( Bop - Jazz ) Born 7-7-1916 in Newport News, VA, U.S.- Played guitar (He did, "Red Cross" and "Romance Without Finance (Is a Nuisance)") - Was a member of The Cats And A Fiddle, Art Tatum Trio and The Rockin' Highlanders.

Stuart Hamblen (Carl Stuart Hamblen) - Died 3-8-1989 in Santa Monica, CA, U.S. - Brain cancer ( Country - Gospel ) Born 10-20-1908 in Kellyville, TX, U.S. - Singer, songwriter and actor - (He did, "This Ole House" and "My Mary") - Was a member of The Cowboy Church Sunday School (They had a hit with, "Open Up Your Heart (And Let The Sun Shine In)") - Husband of Gospel singer, Suzy Daniels - Gospel Music Hall Of Fame Inductee and Nashville Songwriters Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Dock Green Jr. (aka Doc Green Jr.) - Died 3-10-1989 in Fresh Meadows, New York, U.S. - Cancer ( R&B - Soul ) Born 10-8-1934 in Harlem, New York, NY, U.S. - Singer - Was a member of The Harmonaires and The Five Crowns. (They did, "You're My Inspiration" and "Who Can Be True") - Worked with The Drifters ("Dance With Me" and "I Count The Tears").

Fatman Smith (Lloyd Smith) - Died on 3-10-1989 in Philadelphia, PA, U.S. ( R&B ) Born 10-4-1921 in Philadelphia, PA, U.S. - Singer, DJ and manager - (He did, "Where You Been" and "Miss Mushmouth") - Worked with Doc Bagby, Frank Motley and The Equadors.

John Simmons - Died 3-16-1989 ( Disco ) Born 4-14-1943 - Was a member of  The Reflections (They did,"Three Steps From True Love") They also toured as Melba Moore's backing group.

Marek Blizinski - Died 3-17-1989 - Cancer ( Jazz ) Born 3-22-1947 - Guitarist - Worked with Czterech and Bemibem.

Bobby Mitchell - Died 3-17-1989 in New Orleans, LA, U.S. - Illness ( Rock 'n Roll - R&B ) Born 8-16-1935 in Algiers, LA, U.S. - Led Bobby Mitchell & The Toppers (They did, "I'm Gonna Be A Wheel Someday" and "Try Rock 'n Roll") - Worked with The Louisiana Groovers and Dr. John.

Archie Bleyer - Died 3-20-1989 - Parkinson's disease ( Pop - Rock - Jazz - Country ) Born 6-12-1909 in Corona, Long Island, NY, U.S. - Worked with The Chordettes, The Everly Brothers, Jimmy Day, Andy Williams and others.

Robert "Pops" Taylor - Died 3-22-1989 in Chicago, IL, U.S. ( Blues ) He was 72 years old - Guitarist - He produced some of his wife, Koko Taylor's albums.

Arnett Cobb (Arnette Cleophus Cobb) - Died 3-24-1989 in Houston, TX, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 8-10-1918 in Houston, TX, U.S. - Saxophonist - Worked with Chester Boone, Milt Larkin, Floyd Ray, Lionel Hampton, Jimmy Heath and Joe Henderson.

Dean Beard - The West Texas Wild Man - Died 4-4-1989 in Coleman, TX, U.S. ( Rockabilly ) Born 8-31-1935 in Santa Anna, Texas, U.S. - (He did, "Hold Me Close" and "Rakin' And Scrapin") - He led Dean Beard & The Crew Cats - Worked with The Fox Four Sevens and The Champs - West Texas Music Hall Of Fame Inductee.

A. M. Raja - Died 4-8-1989 in Valliur, Tirunelveli District - Train accident ( Composer ) Singer and music director for about 100 films - Worked with his wife, singer,  P. G. Krishnaveni (aka Jikki).

Bessie Griffin (Arlette B. Broil) - Died 4-10-1989 in Los Angeles, CA, U.S. ( Gospel ) Born 7-6-1922 in New Orleans, LA, U.S. - Singer - (She recorded, "Too Close To Heaven" and "I Can Put My Trust In Jesus") - Worked with The Gospel Consolators, The Southern Harps and The Caravans.

Herbert Mills (Herbert Bowles Mills) - Died 4-12-1989 - Viral meningitis ( Swing - Pop - Jazz - R&B ) Born 4-12-1912 in Piqua, Ohio, U.S.  - Singer -  Was one of the Mills Brothers (They recorded, "Paper Doll" and "Cab Driver") - Worked with Louis Armstrong, Bing Crosby and Ella Fitzgerald.

Dmitri Selivanov - Died 4-22-1989 - Hung himself ( Rock ) Guitarist - Was a member of Grazhdanskaya Oborona (They did, "Yunnyj Dobrovolec (A Young Volunteer)" and "Beri Shinel (Take Your Greatcoat)" ).

Lucille Ball (aka Diane Belmont) - Died 4-26-1989 - Born 8-6-1911 in Jamestown, New York, U.S. - Comedienne, actress, producer and singer - (She did, "Frienship" with Vivian Vance) - Was married to actor and singer, Desi Arnaz and comedian, Gary Morton.

Bennie Benjamin (Claude A. Benjamin) - Died 5-2-1989 in Manhattan, New York, NY, U.S. - Born 11-4-1907 in St. Croix, Virgin Islands - Played banjo and guitar and was a songwriter - Collaborated with Sol Marcus, Ed Durham, Ed Seiler and  George David Weiss - (He co-wrote, "I Don’t Want To Set The World On Fire" and "I Ran All the Way Home") - Songwriters Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Joseph Boatner - Died 5-8-1989 ( R&B ) Worked with The Ink Spots.

Keith Whitley (Jesse Keith Whitley) - Died 5-9-1989 ( Bluegrass - Country ) Born 4-1-1955 - (He recorded, "Ten Feet Away" and "Don't Close Your Eyes") - Was a member of The Lonesome Mountain Boys and The Clinch Mountain Boys.

Woody Shaw (Woody Herman Shaw II) - Died 5-10-1989 in New York, NY, U.S. - Kidney failure after losing an arm from being struck by a train ( Jazz ) Born 12-24-1944 in Laurinburg, NC, U.S. - Played flugelhorn and trumpet - Worked with Max Roach, Dexter Gordon, Horace Silver, Archie Shepp and Lionel Hampton - Son of Woody Shaw of The Diamond Jubilee Singers.

Good Rockin' Charles (Charles Edwards) - Died 5-17-1989 in Chicago, IL, U.S. ( Blues ) Born 3-4-1933 in Tuscaloosa, AL, U.S. - Played harmonica - Worked with Lee Jackson, Johnny Young, Smokey Smothers, Arthur Spires and Jimmy Rogers.

Ron Wilson - Died 5-19-1989 - Brain aneurysm ( Surf Rock ) Born 3-9-1945 - Was the drummer for  The Surfaris (They recorded, "Wipe Out" and "Surfer Joe").

Gilda Radner (Gilda Susan Radner) - Died 5-20-1989 in Los Angeles, CA, U.S. - Ovarian Cancer - Born 6-28-1946 in Detroit, Michigan, U.S. - Comedian - (She did, "Gimmie Mick", a punk rock song about Mick Jagger and, "The Way We Were" as  Lisa Loopner) - Acted in a production of Godspell - She was a member of  Second City and one of the original cast members of Saturday Night Live - She was briefly married to bandleader G.E. Smith and then married to comedian Gene Wilder who started Gilda's Club a cancer support group named in Gilda's honor.

Phineas Newborn Jr. - Died 5-26-1989 in Memphis, TN, U.S. ( Jazz - R&B ) Born 12-14-1931 in Whiteville, TN, U.S. - Pianist - Worked with B.B. King, Lionel Hampton, Charles Mingus and his brother, guitarist, Calvin Newborn.

John Cipollina - Died 5-29-1989 in San Francisco, CA, U.S. - Respiratory ailment ( Rock ) Born 8-24-1943 in Berkeley, Cailfornia, U.S. - Was a member of Quicksilver Messenger Service (They did, "Happy Trails" and Dino's Song") and Copperhead (They did, "Roller Derby Star").

Bud Dashiel - Died 6-2-1989 ( Folk ) Born in Paris, France - Was a member of Bud Dashiel & The Kinsmen and the duo Bud & Travis (They did, "Ballad Of The Alamo").

Clifford Givens - Died 6-6-1989 - Born 1-17-1918 in Newark, NJ, U.S. (R&B ) Bassist and singer - Worked with The Southern Sons (They did, "Praise The Lord And Pass The Ammunition") and Billy Ward And His Dominoes.

Vivian Carter - Died 6-12-1989 - Complications from diabetes ( Record Exec ) Born 1920 - Co-founder of Vee Jay Records which released records by Jimmy Reed, The Dells and The Spaniels and was the first US label to release records by The Beatles.

Pete De Freitas - Died 6-14-1989 - Motorcycle accident ( New Wave ) Born 8-2-1961 Port Of Spain, Trunidad - Was a member of Echo And The Bunnymen (They did, "Lost And Found" and "All In Your Mind").

Archie "Grandpappy" Campbell - Died 6-18-1989 ( Country ) Born 3-22-1911 in Stokes County, N.C., U.S.

Pedro Matute (aka Pete) - Died 6-24-1989 in Caracas, Venezuela - Shot by a thief in his apartment ( Pop - Rock ) Born 1950 in Venezuela - Guitarist - Worked with Los X-5, Azucar, Cacao y Leche, Tinajas and Sietecuero.

Hibari Misora - Queen of Showa - Died 6-24-1989 in Tokyo, Japan - Interstitial pneumonitis ( Enka ) Born 5-29-1937 in Yokohama, Japan - Singer and actress - (She did, "Kawa no nagare no yo ni" and "Tokyo Kiddo").

Harry Breuer - Died 6-27-1989 in Long Island, NY, U.S. ( Pop ) Born 10-24-1901 in Brooklyn, NY, U.S. - Played xylophone and Kurzweil synthesizer - Worked with Jacques Perrey, The Cliquot Club Eskimos, Roxy's Gang and The Radio City Music Hall Orchestra and as a staff musician for NBC.

Alfredo Sadel (Alfredo Sanchez Luna) - Favorite tenor of Venezuela - Died 6-28-1989 in Caracas, Venezuela - Cancer ( Pop - Boleros ) Born 2-22-1930 in Caracas, Venezuela - Tenor singer and actor - (He did "Tu No Comprendes" (Your Don't Understand), and "Desvelo de Amor" (Insomnia of Love)).

Dom Mincieli - Died 6-30-1989 in Franklin Square, NY, U.S. - Car accident ( Metal ) Drummer - Was  member of Kronin and Cold Steel.

Greg Bloch (Gregory Bloch) - Died 7-2-1989 ( Rock ) Born 8-19-1947 - Played violin and mandolin - Worked with It's A Beautiful Day ("Burning Low" and "Watching You"), String Cheese ("For Now" and "Empty Streets"), PMF (Premiata Forneria Marconi) ("Traveler" and "Peninsula"), Dwight Twilley and Mark-Almond - Son of clarinetist, Kalman Bloch.

Jim Backus - Died 7-3-1989 - Parkinson's disease ( Actor - Comedian ) Born 2-25-1913 in Cleveland, Ohio, U.S. (He did the song,"Delicious") He was the voice of Mister Magoo and played Thurston Howell III (The Millionaire) on Gilliagan's Island.

Mel Blanc (Melvin Jerome Blanc) (Born Melvin Jerome Blank) - The man of a thousand voices - Died 7-10-1989 in Los Angeles, CA, U.S. - Heart disease  Born 5-30-1908 in San Francisco, CA, U.S. - Voice Artist - (He did,"Clink Clink Another Drink" with Spike Jones and sang,"I Taut I Taw A Puddy Tat") - He did cartoon voices for Tweety Bird, Foghorn Leghorn, Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck and numerous others - Worked with Weird Al and Jack Benny.

Nesuhi Ertegun - Died 7-15-1989 in New York, NY, U.S. - After cancer surgery ( Record Exec ) Born 11-27-1917 in Istanbul, Turkey - He was an editor for Record Changer Magazine, a founder of Crescent Records and an A&R chief for Atlantic Records - Produced Mose Allison, Ray Charles, John Coltrane, Bobby Darin, Big Joe Turner, Art Blakey and Charles Mingus - Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Will Bradley (Wilbur Schwichtenberg) - Died 7-15-1989 in Flemington, NJ, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 7-12-1912 in Newton, NJ, U.S. - Trombonist - (He did, "Beat Me Daddy, Eight To The Bar") - Worked with Ray McKinley, Red Nichols, and Ray Noble.

Paul C (Paul McKasty) - Died 7-17-1989 in Rosedale, Queens, NY, U.S. - Shot - He was 24 years old - Producer and studio engineer - He produced The Ultramagnetic MCs, Eric B & Rakim, Mikey D & L.A. Posse and Marauder & The Fury.

Steve Rubell - Died 7-25-1989 - Complications from hepatitis and septic shock due to aids - Born 1944 - Night club entrepreneur - Ran Studio 54.

Sonny Thompson (Alphonso Thompson) - Died 8-11-1989 in Chicago, IL, U.S. ( R&B ) Born 8-22-1916 in Centreville, MS, U.S. - Pianist - (He did, "Long Gone" and "Blue Dreams") - Worked with his wife, Lulu Reed ("I'll Drown In My Tears" and "Let's Call It A Day").

John B. Carn III - Died 8-16-1989 in Indianapolis, IN.S. - He was 41 years old - Music critic.

Donald Rafael Garrett - Died 8-17-1989 in Chicago, IL, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 2-28-1932 in El Dorado, AR, U.S. - Played clarinet and bass - Was a member of The Sound Circus and The Sea Ensemble - Worked with Archie Shepp, Sonny Rollins, Muhal Richard Abrams, Eddie Harris, Dewey Redman, Ira Sullivan, Rahsaan Roland Kirk and his wife Kali Fasteau.

Chuck Norris (Charles Eldrich Norris) - Died 8-26-1989 in Tustin, CA, U.S. ( Blues - R&B ) Born 8-11-1921 in Kansas City, MO, U.S. - Guitarist - (He did, "Messin' Around" and "Kinda Sick, Mostly Worried") - Worked with Percy Mayfield ("Two Years Of Torture"), Johnny Otis,  Amos Milburn, Dinah Washington, Little Richard and Floyd Dixon ("Shuffle Boogie").

Mickey Hawks (David Michael Hawks) - Died 8-31-1989 in North Carolina, U.S. ( Rockabilly ) Born 7-17-1940 in Thomasville, N.C., U.S. - Singer - (He did, "Bip Bop Boom") - Worked with Moon Mullins & His Night Raiders ("Screamin' Mimi Jeanie").

Yvon Vroman - Died 9-?-1989 - Illness ( Rock ) Guitarist and singer - Was a member of The Honeymoon Killers (They did,"Route Nationale 7" and "Decollage") - Worked with Aksak Maboul.

Clifton Parker - Died 9-2-1989 in Marlowe, England - Born 2-5-1905 in London, England - Composer and pianist - Wrote music for 50 films including The Blue Lagoon, Sink The Bismarck! and The 39 Steps - He had been married to dancer, Yoma Sasburg - Father of writer, Julia Stoneham.

Cowboy (Robert Keith Wiggins) - Died 9-8-1989 - Heart attack ( Rap - Hip Hop ) Born 9-20-1960 in New York, NY, U.S. - Vocals - Was a member of Grandmaster Flash And The Furious Five (They did, "The Message" and "White Lines") - Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Tim Hovey - Died 9-9-1989 - Drug overdose ( Actor ) Born 6-19-1945 - He was the co-author of The New Riders Of The Purple Sage's, "Important Exportin Man" which is reported to have been stolen from Gospel Oak's, "OK Sam".

Perez Prado (Damaso Perez Prado) - The King Of The Mambo - Died 9-14-1989 in Mexico City, Mexico - Stroke ( Pop - Mambo ) Born 12-11-1916 in Matanzas, Cuba - Composer and keyboardist - (He did,"Cherry Pink And Apple Blossom White" and "Anna") - Worked with Pete Candoli, Rene Bloch, Armando Parazo, Beny Moré, Johnny Pacheco and Mongo Santamaria.

Charlie Booker - Died 9-20-1989  ( Blues ) Born 9-3-1925 in Moorehead, Mississippi, U.S.

Gene Nobles - Died 9-21-1989 in Nashville, Tennessee, U.S. - Born 8-3-1913 in Hot Springs, Arkansas, U.S. - Pioneering R&B disc jockey - Blues Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Bill Barron - Died 9-21-1989 in Middletown, CT, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 3-27-1927 in Philadelphia, PA, U.S. - Played saxophone - Worked with The Carolina Cotton Pickers, Red Garland's Quartet, Philly Joe Jones, Johnny Coles, Cecil Taylor, Charles Mingus, Donald Byrd, Ted Curson, Jimmy Heath and John Coltrane.

Irving Berlin (Israel Isidore Baline) - The Dean Of American Songwriters- Died 9-22-1989 in New York, NY, U.S. - Heart attack - Born 5-11-1888 in Tyumen, Russia or Mogilev (now Belarus) - Composer and lyricist - (He did, "Oh, How I Hate To Get Up In The Morning") - (He wrote, "God Bless America", "White Christmas" and "There's No Business Like Show Business") - He wrote music for Broadway shows ("Annie Get Your Gun") and films - He had been married to singer, Dorothy Goetz and writer, Ellin Mackay - Jewish-American Hall Of Fame Inductee and Songwriters Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Arnold Shaw - Died 9-26-1989 - Cancer - Born 6-28-1909 in New York, NY, U.S. - Writer - Wrote liner notes for albums by Ed Ames, The Soft Machine, Etta James, Kaleidoscope, Hampton Hawes and Lowell Fulson.

Bradley Kincaid (William Bradley Kincaid) - Died 9-29-1989 in Springfield, OH, U.S. ( Folk - Country ) Born 7-13-1895 in Point Level, KY, U.S. - Singer - (He did, "The Wreck Of The Number Nine" and "Fond Of Chewing Gum") - Kentucky Music Hall Of Fame Inductee and Nashville Songwriters Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Wilgar Campbell - Died 10-?-1989 - Heart attack or liver problems ( Rock ) Drummer - Worked with Rory Gallagher ("Wave Myself Goodbye" and "Laundromat"), The Dogs and The Wild Cats.

Pleasant Joseph (aka Cousin Joe Pleasant and Smilin' Joe) - Died 10-2-1989 New Orleans, LA, U.S. - Natural causes in his sleep ( Blues - Jazz ) Born 12-20-1907 in Wallace, Louisiana, U.S. - Singer, pianist and guitarist - (He did, "ABD's" and "Bachelor's Blues") - Worked with Dizzy Gillespie, Sidney Bechet, Charlie Parker and Billie Holiday.

Dennis McGee - Died 10-3-1989 in Mamou, LA, U.S. ( Cajun ) Born 1-26-1893 in Bayou Marron, LA, U.S. - Singer and fiddler - Worked with his cousin Sady Courville (They did, "The Happy One-Step" and "Madame Young, Give Me Your Sweetest"), Ernest Fruge and Amedee Ardoin - Cajun Music Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Graham Chapman - Died 10-4-1989 - Pneumonia due to throat cancer ( Pop - Novelty ) Born 1-8-1941 - Was a member of Monty Python's Flying Circus (They did, "The Medical Love Song" and "Oh Lord, Please Don't Burn Us").

Franco Luambo Makiadi (L'Okanga La Ndju Pene Luambo Makiadi) - Sorcerer of the Guitar -  Died 10-12-1989 in Brussels, Belgium ( Jazz - World ) Born 7-6-1938 in Sona-Bata, Zaire - Percussionist and guitarist - (He did, "Attention Na Sida" and "Likambo Ya Ngana") - Was a member of OK Jazz (Oscar Kashama Jazz).

Jake Blood - Died 10-17-1989 in Hollywood, CA, U.S. - Car accident  ( Metal ) Born 6-11-1969 - Drummer - Was a member of  Coffinlid and Mournblade (They did, "Lord Of Chaos" and "Vanishing Tower").

Alan Murphy - Died 10-19-1989 in London, England - AIDS related pneumonia ( Rock - Jazz Fusion ) Born 11-28-1953 - Guitarist - Worked with Go West, Scritti Politti, Long John Baldry, Joan Armatrading, Kate Bush, SFX, Amii Stewart, So, Miquel Brown and Mike And The  Mechanics and Level 42.

Ewan MacColl (William Miller) - Died 10-22-1989 - Heart attack ( Folk ) Born 1-25-1915 in Auchterarder, Scotland - (He did, "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face" and "Dirty Old Town") - Was the the leader of The Critic's Group.

Sahib Shihab (Edmund Gregory) - Died 10-24-1989 ( Hard Bop  ) Born 6-23-1925 in Savannah, GA, U.S. - Saxophonist - Worked with Luther Henderson, Thelonious Monk, Fletcher Henderson, Tadd Dameron, Dizzy Gillespie and others.

Judd McMichael - Died 10-30-1989 in Thousand Oaks, CA, U.S. ( Pop ) Born 8-1-1906, Minneapolis, MN, U.S. - Was a founder of The Merry Macs (They did, "Mairzy Doats" and  "Praise The Lord And Pass The Ammunition") - The group was originally know as The McMichaels, The Mystery Trio and The Personality Boys - Vocal Group Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Maithe Marshall - Died 11-?-1989 ( R&B ) Was a member of The Ravens (They did, "Ol Man River") and The Marshall Brothers.

Sgt. Barry Sadler - Died 11-5-1989 - Brain damage caused by a shooting (Former Green Beret) Born 11-1-1940 in Carlsbad, NM, U.S. (Wrote and sang, "The Ballad Of The Green Berets" and "The Soldier Has Come Home").

Lu Watters (Lucious Watters) - Died 11-5-1989 in Santa Rosa, CA, U.S. ( Jazz - Dixieland ) Born 12-19-1911 in Santa Cruz, CA, U.S. - Band leader and trumpeter - Worked with The Yerba Buena Jazz Band, Bob Scobey, Clancy Hayes and Turk Murphy.

Dickie Goodman (Richard Dorian Goodman) - Died 11-6-1989 - Shot himself ( Novelty ) Born 4-19-1934 - Sampled hits of the day to make his recordings ( He recorded, "The Flying Saucer" and "Mr. Jaws").

James O'Neill - Died 11-9-1989 - Death as a result of dependence on drugs - Born 1952 - Was a road manager for Motorhead.

Herman Griffin (Herman Lewis Griffin) - Died 11-11-1989 - Heart attack ( R&B ) Born 11-25-1936 in Selma AL, U.S. - Singer - He recorded the first song published under Berry Gordy's Jobete Publishing company ("I Need You") He was the leader for The Boys In The Band (They had a hit with,"(How Bout A Little Hand For) The Boys In The Band") Was married to recording artist Mary Wells.

Wild Bill Davison (WIlliam Stethen Davis) - Died 11-14-1989 in Santa Barbara, CA, U.S. ( Jazz ) Born 1-5-1906 in Defiance, OH, U.S. - Played cornet and trumpet - Worked with The Chubb-Steinberg Orchestra, Eddie Condon, The Ohio Lucky Seven, The Seattle Harmony Kings and Benny Meroff.

Freddie Waits - Died 11-18-1989 - Kidney failure ( Blues - Jazz - Soul ) Born 4-27-1943 in Jackson, MS, U.S. - Drummer - Worked with Memphis Slim, Jimmy Wilkins, Gerald Wilson's Orchestra, Paul Winter and John Lee Hooker.

Will Glahe - Died 11-21-1989 ( Polka ) Born 2-12-1902 in Gemany - Accordionist (He did, "Liechtensteiner Polka").

Stanley Morgan - Died 11-22-1989 in Honolulu, HIS.( R&B ) Born 1922 - Guitarist - Worked with The Ink Spots - Farther of saxophonist, Frank Morgan.

Billy Lyall (William Lyall) - Died 12-1-1989 - Aids ( Rock ) Born 3-26-1953 - Synthesizer and piano player for Pilot (They recorded, "Magic" and "January") - Worked with Alan Parsons, Jess Roden, Sheena Easton, The Bay City Rollers and Dollar.

Sammy Fain (Samuel E. Feinberg) - Died 12-6-1989 in Los Angeles, CA, U.S. - Born 6-17-1902 in New York, NY, U.S. - Pianist and composer - (He co-wrote, "Wedding Bells (Are Breaking Up That Old Gang Of Mine)" and "Love Is A Many Splendored Thing") - Worked with Paul Francis Webster and Irving Kahal - Songwriters Hall Of Fame Inductee.

Sammy Lerner (Samuel Lerner)  - Died 12-13-1989 ( Composer ) Born 1-28-1903 (He wrote, "Falling In Love Again' and "I'm Popeye The Sailor Man").

Pattie Santos (Patricia D. Santos)- Died 12-14-1989 - Car crash ( Folk - Rock ) Born 11-16-1949 in San Francisco, California, U.S. - She was a vocalist for It's A Beautiful Day (They did, "White Bird" and "Girl With No Eyes").

Philly Lutaaya (Philly Misuserah Bakidaawo Kivumbi Kifomusana Bongoley Lutaaya) - Died 12-15-1989 - Aids - Born 10-19-1951 in Namirembe, Kampala - Played guitar, drums and trumpet and sang - (He did, "Alone" and "Osobola Otya") - Worked with Elly Wamala's Mascot's band, The Kololo Night Club Band, The Vox Nationale Band, The Nile Breweries Band, The Eko Jazz Band, The Cranes Band, The Rwenzori African Band, The Mixed Talents, Savannah and The Cape Town Villa band.

Antonin Hajek - Died 12-15-1989 in Prague, Czechoslovakia - Cancer ( Country ) Born 1-14-1944 in Prague - Founding member, leader and upright bass and bass player for The Rangers who changed their name to Plavci - (They did, "Promovani inzenyri", "Zvednete kotvy" and "Colorado").

Johnny Board - Died 12-15-1989 in Oak Park, IL, U.S. ( Blues ) Born 12-8-1919 in Chicago, IL, U.S. - Saxophonist and arranger - Worked with B.B. King, Otis Rush, Lionel Hampton, Sonny Parker, Memphis Slim and Gatemouth Brown.

Floyd Jones - Died 12-19-1989 in Chicago, IL, U.S. ( Blues ) Born 7-21-1917 in Marianna, Arkansas, U.S. - Guitarist - (He did, "Cryin' The Blues" and "Big World") - Worked with Snooky Pryor and Sunnyland Slim.

Johnnie Bailes - Died 12-21-1989 in Swainsboro, GA, U.S. ( Country ) Born 6-24-1918 in Kanawha County, WV, U.S. - Was one of The Bailes Brothers (They did, "Dust On The Bible" and "The Drunkard's Grave").

Lance Railton - Died 12-24-1989 ( Rock ) Was the lead guitarist for Earl Preston & The TTs (The Tempest Tornadoes) (They recorded, "I Know Something" and "Watch Your Step").

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