Rock Stars Whose Deaths Were The Most Untimely
Dead rock stars, ranked in order of how much potential great music was lost to this world by their untimely passing. The key criteria for this list is to guess "how much greatness they left behind" - in other words, it would be very difficult to justify, for example, Syd Barrett on this list, because although he is a dead rockstar, he died long after he had stopped making music at all. Similarly, although Elvis Presley died an untimely early death, if you were equally a fan of Kurt Cobain and Elvis Presley, you would only rank them equally if you thought Elvis's post-77 output would equal Cobain's post-'94 output (although you might still keep Elvis somewhere on your list - he was still playing live and could certainly have cleaned up and made a comeback). Recently-deceased musicians, such as Avicii, are eligible for inclusion as well as those who passed years ago.
To keep the spirit of this list, your ranking should reflect a combination of a) musical talent (as a performer, songwriter, and recording artist) and b) how much of that talent you think the world missed, based on how early in their career the artist was taken from us, and what you think their output would have been had they lived a full life. Please note that this list is focused on ROCK artists, so while you aren't going to be prohibited from adding Hank Williams or Billie Holiday, most would argue that country, jazz, and even blues greats aren't rock musicians (people have been including soul and hip-hop, however). Lastly, this list is about dead individual singer/songwriters and musicians, not bands – so Ronnie Van Zandt counts but Lynyrd Skynrd does not. Ranking this list requires some thinking - while most rock stars tend to have a finite time of peak talent (particularly with songwriting and recording), certainly there are examples today of artists who have had career resurgences and done some of their finest work into their 50s and 60s. This list includes solo artists as well as the lead singers to some of the best rock bands responsible for some of the best albums of all time - and many who had illustrious careers as both.Â
This is a list where we hope to see lots of people making their own ranked lists, because ranked lists can be aggregated far more accurately than just votes. See this Forever 27 list for an eye opener about how many of these untimely rock deaths happened at age 27.
Died 1991, age 45
There's no denying that Freddie Mercury possessed an otherworldly charisma and talent for captivating audiences worldwide as the frontman of Queen. With his distinctive four-octave voice and flamboyant stage presence, he not only forged a unique sound for the band but also pushed the boundaries of rock music through innovative songwriting. Despite losing his battle to AIDS in 1991, Freddie Mercury leaves behind an awe-inspiring legacy that will undoubtedly continue to inspire generations of musicians and fans alike.
Died 1970, age 27
Etching his name in the annals of rock history, Jimi Hendrix transcended the genre with his groundbreaking guitar playing. A visionary and pioneer, he redefined the electric guitar sound, unleashing a torrent of sonic experimentation that left many in awe. Known for his legendary performance at Woodstock in 1969, Hendrix's untimely death at the age of 27 in 1970 cemented his status as one of the most influential musicians ever to grace the stage.
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Died 1959, age 22
Often referred to as "the Father of Rock and Roll," Buddy Holly was a trailblazer who helped shape the landscape of popular music. With his signature black-rimmed glasses and mesmerizing guitar skills, Holly quickly became a trendsetter, showcasing a unique fusion of country, blues, and rockabilly. Sadly, his life was cut short in a tragic plane crash at the age of 22 in 1959, but his enduring impact on music can still be felt today.
Died 1981, age 36
A global icon and ambassador for peace, love, and unity, Bob Marley remains one of the most revered musicians of all time. As the frontman of The Wailers, he introduced the world to reggae music and inspired millions across the globe with his message of hope and redemption. Despite succumbing to cancer in 1981, his powerful lyrics and intoxicating rhythms have immortalized him as a legend in the realm of music.
Died 1994, age 27
As the tortured soul behind the meteoric rise of Nirvana, Kurt Cobain redefined the sound of the '90s with his raw, emotive voice and explosive guitar playing. Underneath the signature grunge sound, Cobain's poignant lyrics offered a window into the pain and anguish that ultimately led to his tragic suicide in 1994. His lasting influence on music is a testament to the transcendent nature of his artistry.
A staple of American rock n' roll, Tom Petty forged a career that spanned over four decades, making him a beloved figure in the music industry. As the frontman of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, he captivated audiences with his heartfelt lyrics and distinctive voice, earning a string of hits that became anthems for generations. Tragically, Petty passed away from an accidental drug overdose in 2017, but his timeless music ensures his spirit will live on forever.
Died 1980, age 40
As a founding member of The Beatles, John Lennon changed the course of music history with his poignant songwriting, philosophical musings, and impassioned calls for peace. Following his departure from the band, Lennon continued to forge a solo career marked by both controversy and brilliance, cementing his status as an icon in the process. The senselessness of his murder in 1980 has only served to amplify the tragedy of losing such a visionary talent too early.
A chameleon who continuously reinvented himself, David Bowie was a larger-than-life icon who defied convention and broke stereotypes during his illustrious career. With his unmistakable voice, dazzling stage presence, and experimental approach to music, he became a symbol of innovation and artistic expression in the world of rock. His passing from liver cancer in 2016 marked the end of an incomparable legacy, yet his music remains timeless.
Died 1971, age 27
The enigmatic lead singer of The Doors, Jim Morrison, possessed an uncanny ability to captivate audiences with his poetic lyrics and magnetic stage presence. His mysterious persona and insatiable appetite for rebellion made him a symbol of counterculture and intrigue. Morrison's sudden death in 1971 at just 27 years old added another layer of mystique to his already legendary status.
Died 1990, age 35
Widely regarded as one of the greatest guitarists of all time, Stevie Ray Vaughan was a driving force in the blues-rock scene throughout the 1980s. His extraordinary skill and passion for playing the guitar shone through in every performance, elevating him to the status of a true legend. Sadly, Vaughan's life came to a tragic end in a helicopter crash in 1990, but his influence on modern guitarists remains as powerful as ever.
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A virtuoso multi-instrumentalist and relentless innovator, Prince not only shaped the sound of the '80s but also pushed the boundaries of music and fashion throughout his iconic career. With his inimitable fusion of R&B, funk, rock, and pop, he crafted a legacy that remains unrivaled. The abrupt loss from an accidental fentanyl overdose in 2016 left the world reeling, yet his indelible impact on the culture endures.
Died 1967, age 26
Known as the "King of Soul," Otis Redding possessed a voice that was both powerful and tender, leaving listeners no choice but to feel every word that he sang. His emotive performances and heartfelt songwriting resonated with fans across the globe, earning him a place among the pantheon of soul greats. Tragically, when his private plane crashed into a lake in 1967, the world lost a talent like no other - leaving us to wonder what heights he might have reached had he lived longer.
Died 2017, age 52
One of the definitive voices of the grunge movement, Chris Cornell's haunting vocals and visceral songwriting propelled Soundgarden and later Audioslave to great heights. As both a frontman and solo artist, Cornell left an indelible mark on the musical landscape by crafting some of the most memorable songs of his generation. The news of his suicide in 2017 stunned fans and colleagues alike, leaving a void in the world of rock that may never be filled.
Died 1970, age 27
Janis Joplin's searing vocals and raw emotion helped define the sound of the late '60s counterculture movement, catapulting her to the rarified realm of rock legends. As the quintessential blues-rock diva, she captivated audiences with her boundless energy and larger-than-life presence on stage. Joplin's tragic death in 1970 from a heroin overdose at just 27 years old marked the end of a passionate and all-too-brief career.
Died 1984, age 44
Marvin Gaye's smooth, sultry voice and groundbreaking fusion of R&B, soul, and gospel made him one of the most influential artists of his time. With his socially conscious lyrics and seductive tone, he was able to address issues like race and sexuality in a way few others dared. Gaye's untimely death in 1984 at the hands of his father sent shockwaves through the music world, but his enduring contributions to modern music remain ever-present.
Died 1977, age 42
Synonymous with rock n' roll, Elvis Presley was the undisputed King who shaped the course of music history during his meteoric rise to superstardom. Armed with an irresistible charisma and sultry voice, he shattered racial barriers and ushered in a new era of popular culture. His untimely death from a heart attack at the age of 42 in 1977 plunged the world into mourning and cemented his status as a cultural icon for eternity.
Died 1980, age 32
Arguably the greatest drummer in the history of rock music, John Bonham's thunderous beats and intricate rhythms laid the foundation for Led Zeppelin's iconic sound. With his unmatched power and precision, Bonham's playing remains the gold standard by which all rock drummers are measured. His unexpected passing in 1980 at the age of 32 marked the end of an era for Led Zeppelin, but Bonham's influence on the world of rock music remains as potent as ever.
Died 1959, age 17
As one of the earliest Latino stars to cross over into mainstream rock, Ritchie Valens broke barriers with his pioneering fusion of traditional Mexican music and rock n' roll. In his tragically short career, he crafted infectious melodies that showcased a unique sound and boundless potential. Valens' life was cut short at just 17 years old in the same plane crash that claimed the lives of Buddy Holly and The Big Bopper, leaving behind a rich musical legacy that has since inspired countless artists.
Admired for his distinct baritone voice, Johnny Cash's storied career spanned nearly five decades, during which he established himself as one of the most influential figures in country music. His unique blend of folk, gospel, and rockabilly resonated with fans from all walks of life, further solidifying his legendary status. Although he passed away in 2003 due to complications from diabetes, Cash's unmistakable sound and emotive storytelling continue to captivate generations of fans.
Died 2001, age 58
As the "quiet Beatle," George Harrison's understated genius and introspective songwriting provided The Beatles with a spiritual depth that balanced the frenetic energy of his bandmates. His explorations into Indian classical music and Eastern philosophy imbued the band's sound with a transcendent quality unmatched by their contemporaries. Harrison's death from lung cancer in 2001 brought an end to the remarkable journey of one of rock's most enigmatic figures, but his impact on the art form remains timeless.
Died 1977, age 29
A charismatic frontman and powerhouse vocalist, Ronnie Van Zant infused Southern rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd with an undeniable energy. His gritty voice and passionate performances filled their music with a rebellious spirit that made the group one of the most popular acts of the '70s. Sadly, a plane crash in 1977 claimed Van Zant's life, prematurely ending the promising career of a genuine rock icon.
Died 1982, age 25
Recognized as one of the greatest guitar virtuosos to ever grace the stage, Randy Rhoads was a driving force behind Ozzy Osbourne's early solo success. By combining his classical training with a fierce style of hard rock, Rhoads created a signature sound that inspired an entire generation of guitarists. In 1982, he was tragically killed in a plane crash at the age of 25, leaving the world to mourn the loss of a prodigious talent.
Died 1973, age 30
In a music world dominated by rock, Jim Croce stood out with his soulful voice and heartfelt storytelling. His evocative songs captured the essence of everyday life, creating a timeless appeal that resonated with fans across generations. Tragically, Croce’s life was cut short in a plane crash in 1973, before he could fully realize his immense potential. Despite his untimely passing, his music continues to enchant listeners and inspire aspiring songwriters.
Died 1980, age 33
As the original lead singer of AC/DC, Bon Scott's raspy voice and unrelenting energy shaped the band's hard rock sound and attitude. With his penchant for raw, rebellious lyrics, Scott left an indelible mark on the rock landscape. In 1980, he passed away from acute alcohol poisoning, depriving the world of a remarkable talent and leaving a void within the heart of the band.
With his unmistakable voice and hauntingly beautiful ballads, Roy Orbison captivated audiences during the 1960s with his unique brand of rock n' roll. His vulnerability and emotive performances struck a chord with fans, solidifying his status as a musical icon. In 1988, Orbison suffered a fatal heart attack, leaving behind a legacy that has inspired countless musicians since.
Died 1971, age 24
A masterful slide guitarist and co-founder of The Allman Brothers Band, Duane Allman was instrumental in pioneering the Southern rock sound. With a style that fused blues, jazz, and rock, Allman's immense talent earned him a place among the most revered guitarists in history. Tragically, his life was cut short in a motorcycle accident in 1971, but his impact on the world of music remains ever-present.
Died 1964, age 33
Known as the "King of Soul," Sam Cooke's smooth voice and incredible range made him one of the most influential singers of all time. His groundbreaking fusion of gospel, R&B, and pop paved the way for countless artists who followed in his footsteps. Cooke's tragic death in 1964, under mysterious circumstances, silenced an extraordinary talent that continues to live on through his timeless music.
Died 1983, age 32
With her silky-smooth voice and quiet charisma, Karen Carpenter became an icon as the lead singer of the brother-sister duo, The Carpenters. Their brand of soft rock and heartfelt ballads won them loyal fans around the world. In 1983, Carpenter tragically succumbed to complications from anorexia nervosa, bringing an end to her extraordinary career and drawing attention to the devastating impact of eating disorders.
As the lead vocalist of Linkin Park, Chester Bennington's powerful, emotional voice captivated millions of fans across the globe. His heartfelt lyrics and raw energy helped to define the nu-metal sound, making Linkin Park one of the most successful bands of the early 2000s. Bennington's tragic suicide in 2017 stunned the music world and left a void that will never be filled.
As one of the founding fathers of country music, Hank Williams possessed a plaintive voice and poignant songwriting that endeared him to fans nationwide. His intensely personal lyrics and evocative storytelling helped to shape the sound of country music for generations to come. Williams's untimely death at the age of 29 in 1953, due to heart failure, robbed the world of a singular talent who continues to be celebrated for his enduring impact on popular music.
Died 1986, age 24
As the bassist for Metallica during their early years, Cliff Burton's innovative playing style and technical prowess helped to shape the band's distinctive sound. His intricate bass lines and melodic sensibilities added a unique dimension to their heavy metal repertoire. In 1986, Burton tragically died in a bus accident, leaving behind a legacy of groundbreaking musicianship that continues to inspire and influence the genre.
Died 1978, age 32
Often regarded as one of the greatest drummers of all time, Keith Moon brought an explosive energy to The Who that helped define their signature sound. With his manic playing style and wild antics both on and offstage, Moon was the epitome of rock n' roll excess. In 1978, he succumbed to an accidental overdose at the age of 32, marking the end of a tumultuous yet influential career.
Died 2009, age 50
Known as the "King of Pop," Michael Jackson's incomparable talent and unparalleled showmanship made him one of the most dominant forces in music history. With his unmistakable voice, electrifying dance moves, and groundbreaking fusion of R&B, pop, and rock, Jackson transcended genre barriers to redefine popular music. His sudden death in 2009 from an overdose of a surgical anesthetic shocked the world, but his indelible impact on the entertainment industry remains unrivaled.
Died 2011, age 27
With her sultry voice and retro style, Amy Winehouse burst onto the music scene as a disruptive force that reinvigorated the soul genre. Despite her struggles with addiction, her powerful vocals and evocative songwriting cemented her place as one of the most talented artists of her generation. Winehouse's untimely death in 2011 at the age of 27 only served to underscore the tragedy of losing such a promising talent so soon.
Died 1997, age 53
As a folk singer-songwriter with a gentle voice and introspective lyrics, John Denver captured the hearts of fans with his ode to the natural beauty of the world around him. His timeless songs, like "Take Me Home, Country Roads" and "Rocky Mountain High," continue to resonate with those who seek solace and connection in music. Denver's tragic death in a plane crash in 1997 silenced a voice that spoke for the environment and the human spirit, but his music continues to inspire listeners around the globe.
Died 2002, age 34
As the lead vocalist of Alice in Chains, Layne Staley's haunting, tortured voice became synonymous with the grunge movement of the early '90s. His deeply personal lyrics and harrowing delivery made a lasting impact on fans and fellow musicians alike. Staley's tragic death in 2002, resulting from a long struggle with substance abuse, left a void in the world of rock n' roll that remains palpable to this day.
Died 1938, age 27
A legendary figure in the world of blues, Robert Johnson's innovative guitar skills and emotive vocals made him an early pioneer of the genre. Despite his tragically short career and mysterious death at the age of 27, Johnson's influence can be felt throughout the music world to this day. His enduring legacy is a testament to the power and resonance of his timeless songs.
Died 1969, age 27
As the founding member of The Rolling Stones, Brian Jones's multi-instrumental talents and creative vision helped shape the band's early sound. With a flair for experimentation and a dedication to forging new musical paths, Jones was an integral part of The Rolling Stones' ascent to rock n' roll stardom. Tragically, his life was cut short in 1969 when he drowned in his swimming pool, leaving behind a legacy that would forever define the band he helped create.
Died 1965, age 45
With a voice as smooth as velvet, Nat King Cole was a trailblazer in the world of jazz and popular music. As one of the first African-American musicians to achieve widespread success, he paved the way for countless artists who followed in his footsteps. Though he succumbed to lung cancer in 1965 at the age of 45, Cole's legacy lives on through his timeless music and his lasting impact on the entertainment industry.
Died 1997, age 37
As the charismatic frontman of INXS, Michael Hutchence's sultry voice and magnetic stage presence propelled the Australian band to international fame. With his powerful vocals and infectious energy, Hutchence embodied the essence of rock n' roll hedonism. In 1997, fans were left reeling when he was found dead in a hotel room, marking an unexpected and heartbreaking end to his vibrant career.
Died 1993, age 52
As a virtuoso guitarist, composer, and bandleader, Frank Zappa blurred the lines between rock, jazz, classical, and avant-garde music to create a truly groundbreaking sound. With his razor-sharp wit and penchant for satire, Zappa emerged as one of the most distinctive and influential voices in the world of late '60s counter-cultural rock. After a long battle with cancer, Zappa passed away in 1993, leaving behind a vast body of work that continues to inspire and challenge listeners.
Died 2004, age 38
Widely regarded as one of the most influential guitarists in heavy metal, Dimebag Darrell's aggressive playing and innovative techniques helped cement Pantera's status as a genre-defining act. His larger-than-life personality made him a beloved figure within the global metal community. Tragically, in 2004, Darrell was shot and killed during a concert, sending shockwaves through the music world and leaving behind a legacy of groundbreaking musicianship.
Died 1974, age 32
Known as "Mama Cass," Cass Elliot's rich, velvety voice and charismatic persona made her an integral member of the folk-rock group The Mamas & The Papas. As both a singer and a pop culture icon, Elliot's soulful performances helped propel the band to fame during the '60s. Her untimely death in 1974 from heart failure at the age of 32 left fans mourning the loss of a true talent and a beloved figure in the music world.
Died 1959, age 28
As one of rock n' roll's early pioneers, The Big Bopper, born Jiles Perry Richardson Jr., brought a sense of fun and novelty to the burgeoning genre. With his lively stage presence and distinctive voice, he crafted infectious melodies that captured the spirit of the era. In 1959, The Big Bopper met a tragic end alongside Buddy Holly and Ritchie Valens in a plane crash, ensuring his place as one of rock's most enduring legends.
With his soaring voice and captivating stage presence, Ronnie James Dio reigned supreme as the quintessential metal frontman. As the lead vocalist for renowned bands like Rainbow, Black Sabbath, and his own eponymous group, Dio secured his place among the all-time greats of heavy metal. His untimely death from stomach cancer in 2010 left a lasting hole in the hearts of metal fans worldwide, but his powerful voice and iconic imagery continue to resonate with new generations.
A gifted singer, songwriter, and icon in the realm of pop music, George Michael's distinctive voice and provocative lyrics made him a global sensation. Through both his solo career and work with Wham!, Michael's unique blend of R&B, soul, and dance music captivated audiences around the world. His unexpected death on Christmas day in 2016 left fans grieving the loss of a beloved artist who left an indelible mark on the soundtrack of a generation.
Often referred to as the "Father of Jazz," Louis Armstrong's virtuosic trumpet playing and gravelly voice made him one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century. As a pioneering artist in the realm of jazz, his innovative improvisational techniques and charismatic stage presence forever changed the course of popular music. Armstrong passed away in 1971 at the age of 69, leaving behind a legendary legacy that continues to inspire musicians across all genres.
A true innovator in the world of music, Ray Charles's unique fusion of gospel, rhythm and blues, and soul earned him the nickname "The Genius." With his unmistakable voice and groundbreaking style, Charles captivated audiences and defied expectations, creating a sound that transcended racial and cultural barriers. His death in 2004 from complications related to liver disease marked the end of an extraordinary career, but his influence on the music world remains as potent as ever.
Died 1997, age 30
A gifted singer-songwriter, Jeff Buckley's ethereal voice and introspective lyrics captivated music lovers with their depth and emotion. Although he released only one full-length album, Grace, during his lifetime, his talent and potential were unmistakable. In a tragic twist of fate, Buckley drowned in 1997 at the age of 30, leaving behind a musical legacy that continues to resonate with fans and fellow musicians alike.
Died 1988, age 30
As the younger brother of the Bee Gees, Andy Gibb forged a successful solo career marked by a string of chart-topping hits during the late '70s. With his youthful charm, good looks, and smooth falsetto, Gibb quickly gained a dedicated fan base and continued the family tradition of catchy pop music. Sadly, his life was cut short in 1988 due to heart failure exacerbated by a long battle with drug addiction, leaving fans to mourn the loss of a promising talent.
- Frank Sinatra, a name that resonates with multiple generations, was an extraordinary figure in the 20th-century music scene. Born Francis Albert Sinatra on December 12, 1915, in Hoboken, New Jersey, he rose from humble beginnings to become one of the world's best-selling music artists. His journey began as a crooner with bandleaders Harry James and Tommy Dorsey in the 1930s and 1940s. He then launched a solo career that spanned an impressive six decades, showcasing his distinctive voice and remarkable ability to interpret and deliver lyrics with unmatched emotion. Sinatra's influence extended beyond the realms of music. He made significant strides in film, earning critical acclaim for performances in movies like From Here to Eternity, for which he won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. The multi-talented star also made his mark in television and radio, further cementing his status as a versatile entertainer. Despite facing professional setbacks and personal tribulations during the 1950s, Sinatra bounced back stronger, solidifying his position as a cultural icon with albums like Come Fly With Me and My Way. Away from the spotlight, Sinatra was known for his philanthropic endeavors. He was deeply involved in various charitable causes, particularly those focused on child welfare and health. His legacy continues to thrive, long after his death on May 14, 1998, influencing generations of artists across different genres.
- Scott Richard Weiland (; né Kline, October 27, 1967 – December 3, 2015) was an American musician, singer and songwriter. During a career spanning three decades, Weiland was best known as the lead singer of the band Stone Temple Pilots from 1989 to 2002 and 2008 to 2013, making six records with them. He was also lead vocalist of supergroup Velvet Revolver from 2003 to 2008, recording two albums, and recorded one album with another supergroup, Art of Anarchy. He also established himself as a solo artist, releasing three studio albums, two cover albums, and collaborations with several other musicians throughout his career. Derided by critics early in his career, Weiland was known for his flamboyant and chaotic onstage persona; he was also known for constantly changing his appearance and vocal style, for his use of a megaphone in concerts for vocal effect, and for his battles with substance abuse. Now widely viewed as a talented and versatile vocalist, Weiland has been ranked in the Top 100 Heavy Metal Vocalists by Hit Parader (No. 57). In 2012, Weiland formed the backing band The Wildabouts. The band received mixed reviews, and some critics and fans noted Weiland's failing health. In December 2015, Weiland died of an accidental drug overdose on his tour bus in Minnesota at the age of 48. Upon his death, many critics and peers offered re-evaluations of Weiland's life and career; those critics included David Fricke of Rolling Stone and Billy Corgan of The Smashing Pumpkins, who identified Weiland as one of the "voices of the generation" alongside Kurt Cobain and Layne Staley.
- Alton Glenn Miller (March 1, 1904 – disappeared December 15, 1944) was an American big-band trombonist, arranger, composer, and bandleader in the swing era. He was the best-selling recording artist from 1939 to 1943, leading one of the best-known big bands. Miller's recordings include "In the Mood", "Moonlight Serenade", "Pennsylvania 6-5000", "Chattanooga Choo Choo", "A String of Pearls", "At Last", "(I've Got a Gal In) Kalamazoo", "American Patrol", "Tuxedo Junction", "Elmer's Tune", and "Little Brown Jug". In just four years Glenn Miller scored 16 number-one records and 69 top ten hits—more than Elvis Presley (38 top 10s) and the Beatles (33 top 10s) did in their careers. While he was traveling to entertain U.S. troops in France during World War II, Miller's aircraft disappeared in bad weather over the English Channel.
- A founding member of the California country-rock group The Eagles, Glenn Frey was arguably one of the most successful figures in the history of popular music, having composed or collaborated on most of the group's vastly successful catalog of songs, which sold over 120 million records over the course of four decades. A veteran of the Detroit music scene as a teenager, Frey moved to Los Angeles in the early 1970s, where he teamed with Don Henley to back Linda Ronstadt during her first tour. The duo decided to forge their own group, and the Eagles soon emerged as one of the most popular rock acts of the 1970s, with a string of hits including "Take It Easy," "Best of My Love," "Life in the Fast Lane," "One of These Nights," and their epochal signature tune, "Hotel California." The pressures of fame led to their dissolution in 1980, after which Frey enjoyed a solid run as a solo performer with hits including "Smuggler's Blues," "You Belong to the City" and "The Heat Is On," as well as a minor second career as an actor. The Eagles' reunion in 1994 dominated Frey's talents for the next two decades, which was comprised of countless "farewell" tours and a long-gestating album, Long Road Out of Eden (2008). The enduring popularity of the Eagles was due largely in part to Frey's talents as a songwriter and singer, and their unparalleled good fortunes made him one of the most accomplished figures in rock-n-roll. His death at the age of 67 on January 18, 2016 was mourned by fans and friends across the world as rock lost one of its most familiar voices.
- Marc Bolan, born as Mark Feld, was an English singer-songwriter who left his impact on the music world. Known for his expressive lyrics and distinctive style, he became a pivotal figure in the glam rock movement of the 1970s. His journey began in London, where he was born on September 30, 1947. His passion for music emerged early on, and by the time he was nine, he had already begun penning his own songs. Bolan started his career as a model before diving into music with the band, John's Children. However, it was with T. Rex, originally formed as Tyrannosaurus Rex, that Bolan achieved meteoric success. His unique blend of folk, rock and theatricality resulted in chart-topping hits including "Bang a Gong (Get It On)" and "Jeepster." T. Rex's album, Electric Warrior, has been cited as one of the defining works of the glam rock genre, thanks to Bolan's flamboyant stage presence and memorable songwriting. Tragically, Marc Bolan's life and career were cut short when he died in a car accident on September 16, 1977, just two weeks before his 30th birthday. Despite his untimely death, Bolan's influence on music remains substantial. His legacy continues to inspire countless artists, and his work still resonates with fans worldwide. Famed for his creativity, charisma and pioneering spirit, Marc Bolan will forever be remembered as a glittering star in the annals of rock 'n' roll.
- Joseph John Cocker, universally known as Joe Cocker, was a force to be reckoned with in the realm of rock and blues music. Born on May 20, 1944, in Sheffield, England, he began his musical journey at an early age. A gas fitter by trade, Cocker's passion for music led to his transformation into a globally recognized figure in the music industry. Uniquely gifted with a gravelly voice that epitomized raw emotion, he became an iconic figure in the late '60s and '70s music scene. Cocker's career took off when he released his cover of The Beatles' "With a Little Help from My Friends" in 1968, which not only reached number one on the UK Singles Chart but also was a defining performance at the legendary Woodstock festival. His distinctive style of performing, often flailing his arms and seemingly echoing the song's lyrics through physical gestures, added a layer of depth and character to his performances, making him unforgettable to his audience. Throughout his career, he produced 22 studio albums and received numerous accolities, including a Grammy Award in 1983 for his number one hit, "Up Where We Belong", a duet with Jennifer Warnes, featured in the film An Officer and a Gentleman. Despite battling alcohol and drug addiction during the peak of his career, Cocker managed to stage a successful comeback in the 1980s and continued to be active in the music industry until health issues forced his retirement. His contribution to music was recognized when he was awarded the OBE (Order of the British Empire) by Queen Elizabeth II in 2007. Joe Cocker passed away on December 22, 2014, but his powerful renditions of popular songs cemented his place in music history. His influence continues to resonate, making him a timeless figure in the world of music.
- Famed just as much for his leather jacket, ripped jeans, giant sunglasses and mop of dark grungy hair as his youthful bleat, Joey Ramone became the archetypal street punk as the frontman of rock and roll revolutionaries The Ramones. Widely acknowledged as the Godfather of the genre, Ramone initially began his career as a drummer before replacing Ramones bandmate Dee Dee on vocals in a move which would eventually help propel the group from the underground clubs of New York to the periphery of the mainstream. Although the group never reached any higher than No. 44 on the Billboard charts, their raucous energy, infectious three-chord songs and rapid-fire live performances unarguably defined the punk movement. Making the most of his limited vocal range, Ramone was an integral part of their cult success, his effortlessly cool and melodic croon providing a welcome alternative to the more abrasive snarls favoured by the countless punk rockers who followed in his wake. Alongside guitarist Johnny, Joey was the only Ramone to last the entire course of the band's 22-year-run, and later achieved critical acclaim as a solo artist with two posthumous records released after his untimely death in 2001.
- Jerry Garcia, best known as the lead guitarist and vocalist for the band Grateful Dead, was an influential figure in American music history. Born on August 1, 1942, in San Francisco, California, Garcia's early life was marked by tragedy when he lost his father at a young age. This experience significantly influenced him and his music, adding a touch of melancholy that resonated with his fans. Despite the adversities, he showed an early interest in music, learning to play the piano and guitar during his teenage years. Garcia's musical career took off in the mid-1960s when he formed Grateful Dead. The band quickly became a central part of the counterculture movement, known for their unique blend of rock, folk, country, jazz, and blues, and their improvisational style. They also gained fame for their live performances, which often turned into extended jam sessions. Under Garcia's leadership, Grateful Dead released numerous albums, including the critically acclaimed Workingman's Dead and American Beauty. In addition to his work with the band, Garcia was also involved in various side projects. He explored different genres, collaborated with other musicians, and even dabbled in visual arts, showcasing his versatility and creativity. His contributions to music were recognized with his induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1994. However, Garcia's life was not without its struggles. He battled drug addiction for many years, which ultimately led to his untimely death on August 9, 1995. Despite his personal problems, Jerry Garcia's legacy continues to thrive, influencing countless musicians and earning him a dedicated fan base that keeps his music alive.
- Ricky Nelson, born Eric Hilliard Nelson in 1940, was a pivotal figure in the sphere of entertainment, earning fame as an actor, musician, and singer-songwriter. His journey into stardom began at a tender age when he appeared on his parents' radio show, The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet. Later, this show transitioned to television, providing Ricky with a platform to showcase his musical talents, a strategic move that made him one of the earliest pioneers of the teen idol phenomenon. Nelson's music career took off in the late 1950s, carving out a niche in rockabilly, country, and rock 'n' roll genres. He scored numerous hits, including "Poor Little Fool", which holds the distinction of being the first number-one song on Billboard's newly created Hot 100 chart in 1958. His career spanned decades and encompassed over 30 Top 40 hits, making him one of the highest-selling artists of his time. In addition to his successful music career, Nelson also had a significant impact on the film industry, starring in notable films such as Rio Bravo alongside John Wayne and Dean Martin. Despite his stardom, Nelson's life was not without its complications. He struggled with personal issues, including tumultuous relationships and substance use. Tragically, his life was cut short in 1985 in a plane crash while he was on tour. Despite his untimely death, Ricky Nelson's legacy continues to influence the entertainment industry. He was posthumously inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987, recognizing his significant contributions to music and popular culture.
- Jeff Healey, a Canadian guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter, etched his name into the annals of rock and blues music history through an astonishing career that spanned almost three decades. Born Norman Jeffrey Healey on March 25, 1966, in Toronto, Ontario, Healey became blind in early childhood due to a rare form of eye cancer. This adversity, however, did not prevent him from exploring his extraordinary musical talent. As he evolved into a virtuoso musician, he developed a unique style of playing the electric guitar flat on his lap. Healey's musical journey began as a jazz enthusiast, but the allure of rock and blues soon took hold. His breakthrough arrived with the formation of the Jeff Healey Band in 1985, along with bassist Joe Rockman and drummer Tom Stephen. Their debut album See The Light, released in 1988, catapulted them into stardom, highlighted by the hit single "Angel Eyes." Healey's exceptional guitar work, combined with his distinct husky voice, quickly garnered international acclaim. Throughout his career, Healey never lost touch with his love for jazz and vintage music. Despite his success in the rock and blues genre, he went on to host radio programs showcasing his vast collection of 78 rpm records and formed the Jazz Wizards, a traditional jazz group. His contribution to music was recognized posthumously with his induction into Canada's Walk of Fame in 2014. Jeff Healey's legacy remains a testament to his enduring passion for music, inspiring countless musicians around the world.
- Waylon Jennings, an emblematic figure in the realm of country music, was born on June 15, 1937, in Littlefield, Texas. Raised by his mother while his father worked overseas during World War II, Jennings developed a passion for music at a tender age. By 12, he was already making appearances on local radio shows, displaying a remarkable talent that would later propel him to the zenith of the country music scene. In the early stages of his career, Jennings played bass for Buddy Holly in the 1950s. This collaboration was cut short by the tragic plane crash in 1959 that claimed Holly's life. Jennings was supposed to be on the same flight but gave up his seat to J.P. Richardson, also known as The Big Bopper. This incident marked a turning point in Jennings' life and career, prompting him to pour his heart into music even more deeply. As an influential artist in the "Outlaw Country" movement, Jennings' contribution to music is immeasurable. His long list of hits includes "Luckenbach, Texas (Back to the Basics of Love)" and the iconic "Mammas Don't Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys." Despite facing numerous personal challenges, including a battle with drug addiction, Jennings remained an enduring figure in the industry until his death in 2002. His legacy lives on, influencing generations of musicians with his distinct sound and rebellious spirit.
- Philip Parris Lynott (, LY-nət; 20 August 1949 – 4 January 1986) was an Irish musician and songwriter. His most commercially successful group was Thin Lizzy, of which he was a founding member, the principal songwriter, lead vocalist and bassist. He was known for his distinctive plectrum-based style on the bass, and for his imaginative lyrical contributions including working class tales and numerous characters drawn from personal influences and Celtic culture. Lynott was born in the West Midlands of England, but grew up in Dublin with his grandparents. He remained close to his mother, Philomena, throughout his life. He fronted several bands as a lead vocalist, including Skid Row alongside Gary Moore, before learning the bass guitar and forming Thin Lizzy in 1969. After initial success with "Whiskey in the Jar", the band had several hits in the mid-1970s with hits such as "The Boys Are Back in Town", "Jailbreak" and "Waiting for an Alibi", and became a popular live attraction combining Lynott's vocal and songwriting skills with dual lead guitars. Towards the end of the 1970s, Lynott also embarked upon a solo career, published two books of poetry, and after Thin Lizzy disbanded, he assembled and fronted the band Grand Slam, of which he was the leader until it folded in 1985. Following Thin Lizzy, Lynott increasingly suffered drug-related problems, particularly an addiction to heroin. In 1985 he had a final chart success with Moore, "Out in the Fields", followed by the minor hit "Nineteen", before his death on 4 January 1986 from sepsis secondary to pneumonia. He remains a popular figure in the rock world, and in 2005 a statue in his memory was erected in Dublin.
- Bobby Darin, born Walden Robert Cassotto on May 14, 1936, was a multi-talented American singer, songwriter, and actor who left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. His journey began in The Bronx, New York City, where he was raised by his maternal grandmother. Despite being diagnosed with rheumatic fever at a young age, which significantly weakened his heart, Darin didn't let his health challenges deter him from pursuing his dreams. He was known for his tenacity and drive to succeed, attributes that would serve him well throughout his career. Darin's music career took off in the late 1950s, where he distinguished himself through a wide range of musical styles, including pop, country, jazz, and folk. His first major hit, "Splish Splash," catapulted him into the limelight in 1958. However, it was his rendition of "Mack the Knife" in 1959 that solidified his place in music history, earning him two Grammy Awards and becoming his best-known song. Darin was not just limited to singing; he was also a skilled songwriter, penning songs for other artists, including "Early in the Morning" for Buddy Holly. Darin's talents extended beyond music into acting. He appeared in several films and was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in Captain Newman, M.D. in 1963. As an entertainer, Darin was celebrated for his charismatic performances and his ability to captivate audiences. Despite his early demise at the age of 37 due to complications from his lifelong heart condition, Darin's legacy lives on. His contributions to the entertainment industry were recognized posthumously with his induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1990 and the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1999.
- Harry Forster Chapin (December 7, 1942 – July 16, 1981) was an American singer-songwriter, humanitarian, and producer best known for his folk rock and pop rock songs, who achieved worldwide success in the 1970s and became one of the most popular artists and highest paid performers. Chapin is also one of the best charting musical artists in the United States. Chapin, a Grammy Award winning artist and Grammy Hall of Fame inductee, has sold over 16 million records worldwide and has been described as one of the most beloved performers in music history.Chapin recorded a total of 11 albums from 1972 until his death in 1981. All 14 singles that he released became hit singles on at least one national music chart. As a dedicated humanitarian, Chapin fought to end world hunger; he was a key participant in the creation of the Presidential Commission on World Hunger in 1977. Chapin is credited with being the most politically and socially active American performer of the 1970s. In 1987, Chapin was posthumously awarded the Congressional Gold Medal for his humanitarian work.
- Dennis Carl Wilson (December 4, 1944 – December 28, 1983) was an American musician, singer, and songwriter who co-founded the Beach Boys. He is best remembered as their drummer and as the middle brother of bandmates Brian and Carl Wilson. Dennis was the only true surfer in the Beach Boys, and his personal life exemplified the "California Myth" that the band's early songs often celebrated. He was also known for his brief association with Charles Manson, a songwriter later convicted of several murders, and for co-starring in the 1971 film Two-Lane Blacktop. Wilson served mainly on drums and backing vocals for the Beach Boys, and contrary to popular belief, his playing can be heard on many of the group's hits. He originally had few lead vocals on the band's songs, but starting with their 1968 album Friends, his prominence as a singer-songwriter increased. Unlike Brian's music, Dennis' is characterized for reflecting his "edginess" and "little of his happy charm". His original songs for the group included "Little Bird" (1968), "Forever" (1970), and "Slip On Through" (1970). Friends and biographers also say that Wilson was an uncredited writer on "You Are So Beautiful", a hit for Joe Cocker in 1974. During his final years, Wilson struggled with substance addictions that contributed to tensions with his bandmates. His only solo album, Pacific Ocean Blue (1977), was released to warm reviews, but moderate sales." Sessions for a follow-up, Bambu, disintegrated before his death. In 1988, Wilson was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of the Beach Boys. He died from drowning at the age of 39 in 1983.
- Barry White, an iconic figure in the annals of soul and disco music, was born in Galveston, Texas on September 12, 1944. From an early age, he demonstrated a keen interest in music, a passion that served as his escape route from a challenging upbringing marked by poverty and run-ins with the law. His breakthrough came in the late 1960s after several years of honing his craft behind the scenes as a producer and songwriter for smaller R&B groups. White's rise to stardom came in the 1970s when he emerged as a solo artist. His distinctive deep voice, combined with his romantic image and orchestral arrangements, helped him establish a unique niche. Songs such as "Can't Get Enough of Your Love, Babe" and "You're the First, the Last, My Everything" cemented his status as a soul and disco icon. He achieved numerous accolades throughout his career including multiple Grammy Awards and induction into the Dance Music Hall of Fame. Despite health issues that plagued him later in life, culminating in his passing in July 2003, White's legacy continues to resonate with fans worldwide. His music has influenced countless artists across various genres, testifying to the universal appeal of his work. Barry White's life was a testament to the transformative power of music, from a troubled youth to a revered entertainer, his journey continues to inspire generations.
- Ingram Cecil Connor III (November 5, 1946 – September 19, 1973), known professionally as Gram Parsons, was an American singer, songwriter, guitarist and pianist. Parsons is best known for his work with the Byrds and Flying Burrito Brothers. He also popularized what he called "Cosmic American Music", a hybrid of country, rhythm and blues, soul, folk, and rock. He recorded as a solo artist and with the International Submarine Band, the Byrds and the Flying Burrito Brothers. His relatively short career was described by AllMusic as "enormously influential" for country and rock, "blending the two genres to the point that they became indistinguishable from each other."Parsons was born in Winter Haven, Florida and developed an interest in country music while attending Harvard University. He founded the International Submarine Band in 1966 and, after several months of delay, their debut album Safe at Home was released in 1968 (by which time the group had disbanded). Parsons joined The Byrds in early 1968 and played a pivotal role in the making of the seminal Sweetheart of the Rodeo album. After leaving the group in late 1968, Parsons and fellow Byrd Chris Hillman formed The Flying Burrito Brothers in 1969, releasing their debut, The Gilded Palace of Sin, the same year. The album was well received but failed commercially. After a sloppy cross-country tour, they hastily recorded Burrito Deluxe. Parsons was fired from the band before its release in early 1970. He soon signed with A&M Records but after several unproductive sessions he canceled his intended solo debut in early 1971. Parsons moved to France, where he lived for a short period at Villa Nellcôte with his friend Keith Richards of The Rolling Stones. Returning to America, Parsons met Emmylou Harris through his friend and former bandmate Chris Hillman. She assisted him on vocals for his first solo record, GP, released in 1973. Although it received enthusiastic reviews, the release failed to chart. His next album, Grievous Angel, met with a similar reception and peaked at number 195 on the Billboard chart. His health deteriorated due to several years of drug abuse and he died in 1973 at the age of 26. Since his death, Parsons has been credited with helping to found both country rock and alt-country. He did not consider his work "country rock" because he felt it should not be categorized in a single genre since it was a unique blend of many genres and styles of music with his own personal twang.In 1968, the Byrds appeared on the Grand Ole Opry and were met with a hostile crowd. They then appeared on Ralph Emery's WSM radio show and were shocked to find he had none of their records. Parsons and Roger McGuinn wrote the song "Drug Store Truck Drivin' Man" in response.His posthumous honors include the Americana Music Association "President's Award" for 2003 and a ranking at No. 87 on Rolling Stone's list of the "100 Greatest Artists of All Time."
- Luther Vandross Jr. (April 20, 1951 – July 1, 2005) was an American singer, songwriter and record producer. Throughout his career, Vandross was an in-demand background vocalist for several different artists including Todd Rundgren, Judy Collins, Chaka Khan, Bette Midler, Diana Ross, David Bowie, Ben E. King, and Donna Summer. He later became a lead singer of the group Change, which released its gold-certified debut album, The Glow of Love, in 1980 on Warner/RFC Records. After Vandross left the group, he was signed to Epic Records as a solo artist and released his debut solo album, Never Too Much, in 1981. His hit songs include "Never Too Much", "Here and Now", "Any Love", "Power of Love/Love Power", "I Can Make It Better" and "For You to Love". Many of his songs were covers of original music by other artists such as "If This World Were Mine" (duet with Cheryl Lynn), "Since I Lost My Baby", "Superstar" and "Always and Forever". Duets such as "The Closer I Get to You" with Beyoncé, "Endless Love" with Mariah Carey and "The Best Things in Life Are Free" with Janet Jackson were all hit songs in his career. During his career, Vandross sold over 35 million records worldwide, and received eight Grammy Awards including Best Male R&B Vocal Performance four different times. He won a total of four Grammy Awards in 2004 including the Grammy Award for Song of the Year for a song recorded not long before his death, "Dance with My Father".
- Syd Barrett, born Roger Keith Barrett on January 6, 1946, was an influential English singer, songwriter, and musician. He is best known as a founding member of the band Pink Floyd, which he formed with his college friends in London during the mid-1960s. An innovative and eccentric artist, Barrett was the leading creative force behind the band's early psychedelic sound, contributing memorable songs like "Arnold Layne," "See Emily Play," and much of their debut album, The Piper at the Gates of Dawn. Barrett's contributions to music were not limited to Pink Floyd. After leaving the band due to mental health issues exacerbated by drug use, he embarked on a solo career. While his tenure as a solo artist was short-lived, producing only two studio albums - The Madcap Laughs and Barrett, they left a lasting impact on the genre of psychedelia. Despite their commercial underperformance at the time of release, they have since gained cult status, being cited as influential by artists across genres. Unfortunately, Syd Barrett's promising musical career was marred by personal struggles. His deteriorating mental health, believed to be a result of heavy LSD use, forced him to withdraw from the public eye by the mid-1970s. For over three decades until his death in 2006, he lived a life of reclusion, away from the glitz and glamour associated with his Pink Floyd days.
- Ray Edward Cochran (; October 3, 1938 – April 17, 1960) was a mid-20th century American rock and roll musician. Cochran's songs, such as "Twenty Flight Rock", "Summertime Blues", "C'mon Everybody" and "Somethin' Else", captured teenage frustration and desire in the mid-1950s and early 1960s. He experimented with multitrack recording, distortion techniques, and overdubbing even on his earliest singles. He played the guitar, piano, bass, and drums. His image as a sharply dressed and good-looking young man with a rebellious attitude epitomized the stance of the 1950s rocker, and in death he achieved an iconic status.Cochran was involved with music from an early age, playing in the school band and teaching himself to play blues guitar. In 1954, he formed a duet with the guitarist Hank Cochran (no relation), and when they split the following year, Eddie began a songwriting career with Jerry Capehart. His first success came when he performed the song "Twenty Flight Rock" in the film The Girl Can't Help It, starring Jayne Mansfield. Soon afterwards, he signed a recording contract with Liberty Records. Cochran died at age 21 after a road accident, while travelling in a taxi in Chippenham, Wiltshire, during his British tour in April 1960, having just performed at Bristol's Hippodrome theatre. Though his best-known songs were released during his lifetime, more of his songs were released posthumously. In 1987, Cochran was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. His songs have been recorded by a wide variety of recording artists.
- Though frequently described as the "quiet" member of the Bee Gees, Maurice Gibb was, in fact, a key member of the group in ways that the public rarely saw. He was a vital part of their signature vocal harmonies, and contributed bass and other instruments to their countless hit songs - from 1960s pop like "To Love Somebody" through their breakout as disco stars with the Saturday Night Fever soundtrack. But the perpetually hat-wearing Gibb's greatest contribution to the Bee Gees was his humor and calm presence, which helped to unify his often sparring brothers, Barry and Robin, when external or internal pressures threatened the group. Gibb was able to maintain that role for over four decades, even in the midst of personal troubles, including a serious alcohol problem that nearly derailed his life. His sudden death in 2003 shocked fans around the world, who recalled his subtle but vitally important impact on one of the most successful musical acts in history.
- James Brown, often dubbed "the Godfather of Soul," was a seminal figure in the evolution of rhythm and blues into soul music and funk. Born on May 3, 1933, in Barnwell, South Carolina, Brown's early life was marked by extreme poverty and abandonment. Despite the hardships, he discovered his love for music and performance at a young age, which propelled him to rise above his circumstances and become one of the most influential musical icons of the 20th century. Brown began his career as a gospel singer with the group The Gospel Starlighters. However, his breakthrough came in the mid-1950s when he joined The Famous Flames as a lead vocalist. His electrifying performances and unique blend of rhythm and blues, gospel, and jazz elements soon grabbed international attention. His hit singles such as "Please, Please, Please" and "Try Me" set the stage for a new era of soul music. By the 1960s, Brown had also pioneered funk music with hits like "Papa's Got a Brand New Bag" and "I Got You (I Feel Good)," earning him another title - "the Hardest Working Man in Show Business." Brown's influence extended beyond music. He was an active figure during the Civil Rights Movement, using his platform to advocate for black empowerment and social change. His song "Say It Loud - I'm Black and I'm Proud" became an anthem for the movement. Despite personal struggles and legal troubles later in life, Brown's legacy as a trailblazer in music and social activism remains intact. His groundbreaking sound and dynamic performances continue to inspire generations of musicians across various genres. James Brown passed away on December 25, 2006, but his music and his message continue to reverberate, underscoring his enduring impact on the world of music and beyond.
- Merle Haggard, a towering figure in the field of country music, was born on April 6, 1937, in Oildale, California. His upbringing during the Great Depression and his early life spent in converted railroad car home provided him with ample experiences to draw upon for his future songwriting. Haggard's path to stardom, however, was rocky. His rebellious youth included several brushes with the law, culminating in a robbery attempt that landed him in San Quentin Prison in 1958. This experience became a turning point in his life. Emerging from prison in 1960, Haggard turned his focus to music. He swiftly rose through the ranks of local musicians in Bakersfield, California, a hub for the thriving honky-tonk music scene. By the mid-sixties, he had signed with Capitol Records and began producing hits like. "(My Friends Are Gonna Be) Strangers"and "Swinging Doors" As his career took off, Haggard cultivated an authentic outlaw image, reflecting his past and resonating with fans nationwide. Haggard's music transcended entertainment, giving voice to the struggles and joys of working-class America. His narrative style in songs such as "Mama Tried" and "Okie from Muskogee" resonated deeply with listeners, making him one of the most influential country artists of his generation. Throughout his career, Haggard released over 60 studio albums, earning him numerous awards including inductions into the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Kennedy Center Honors. Even after his demise on April 6, 2016, Merle Haggard's legacy continues to influence generations of musicians and fans alike, affirming his position as a cornerstone of American country music.
- Minnie Julia Riperton-Rudolph (November 8, 1947 – July 12, 1979), was an American singer-songwriter best known for her 1975 single "Lovin' You" and her five-octave coloratura soprano range. She is also widely known for her use of the whistle register and has been referred to by the media as the "Queen of the whistle register". Born in 1947, Riperton grew up in Chicago's Bronzeville neighborhood on the South Side. As a child, she studied music, drama and dance at Chicago's Lincoln Center. In her teen years, she sang lead vocals for the Chicago-based girl group the Gems. Her early affiliation with the legendary Chicago-based Chess Records afforded her the opportunity to sing backup for various established artists such as Etta James, Fontella Bass, Ramsey Lewis, Bo Diddley, Chuck Berry and Muddy Waters. While at Chess, Riperton also sang lead for the experimental rock/soul group Rotary Connection, from 1967 to 1971. On April 5, 1975, Riperton reached the apex of her career with her No. 1 single "Lovin' You". The single was the last release from her 1974 gold album titled Perfect Angel. In January 1976, Riperton was diagnosed with breast cancer and, in April, she underwent a radical mastectomy. By the time of diagnosis, the cancer had metastasized and she was given about six months to live. Despite the grim prognosis, she continued recording and touring. She was one of the first celebrities to go public with her breast cancer diagnosis but did not disclose she was terminally ill. In 1977, she became a spokesperson for the American Cancer Society. In 1978, she received the American Cancer Society's Courage Award, which was presented to her at the White House by President Jimmy Carter. Riperton died of cancer on July 12, 1979 at age 31.
- Sid Vicious (born John Simon Ritchie, 10 May 1957 – 2 February 1979) was an English bassist and vocalist. He achieved fame as a member of the punk rock band the Sex Pistols, replacing Glen Matlock, who had fallen out of favour with the rest of the group. Due to intravenous drug use, Vicious was hospitalised with hepatitis during the recording of the Sex Pistols' only studio album, Never Mind the Bollocks, Here's the Sex Pistols; his bass is only partially featured on one song - "Bodies". Vicious later appeared as a lead vocalist, performing three songs, on the soundtrack to The Great Rock 'n' Roll Swindle, a largely fictionalised documentary about the Sex Pistols. As the Sex Pistols were gaining attention, Vicious met Nancy Spungen, and the pair entered a relationship which culminated in Spungen's death from an apparent stab wound while staying in New York City's Hotel Chelsea with Vicious. Under suspicion of murder, Vicious was released on bail; he was arrested again for assaulting Todd Smith, brother of Patti Smith, at a nightclub, and underwent drug rehabilitation on Rikers Island. He died in 1979 after overdosing on heroin. Less than four weeks after Vicious's death, The Great Rock 'n' Roll Swindle soundtrack was released. On 15 December 1979, a compilation of live material recorded during his brief solo career was released as Sid Sings. Gary Oldman portrayed Vicious in the 1986 biopic Sid and Nancy.
- Tammi Terrell (born Thomasina Winifred Montgomery; April 29, 1945 – March 16, 1970) was an American recording artist, best known as a star singer for Motown Records during the 1960s, most notably for a series of duets with singer Marvin Gaye. Terrell's career began as a teenager, first recording for Scepter/Wand Records, before spending nearly two years as a member of James Brown's Revue, recording for Brown's Try Me label. After a period attending college, Terrell recorded briefly for Checker Records, before signing with Motown in 1965. With Gaye, Terrell scored seven Top 40 singles on the Billboard Hot 100, including "Ain't No Mountain High Enough", "Ain't Nothing Like the Real Thing" and "You're All I Need to Get By". Terrell's career was interrupted when she collapsed into Gaye's arms as the two performed at a concert at Hampden–Sydney College on October 14, 1967, with Terrell later being diagnosed with a brain tumor. She had eight unsuccessful surgeries before succumbing to the illness on March 16, 1970 at the age of 24.
- With his 'buzzsaw' downstroke technique and antipathy towards the showboating solos favored by the rock elite, guitar hero Johnny Ramone not only defined The Ramones' primitive sound, but also gave hope to a generation of musicians whose passion perhaps outweighed their ability. Ramone might not have been the most technically gifted guitarist, but his no-nonsense direct approach was undeniably a pivotal part of the New Yorkers' rise from underground unknowns to celebrated punk pioneers. One of only two Ramones to last the entire course of their influential 22-year-career, Johnny appeared on each of their 14 studio albums and played every single one of their 2263 shows, before their official split in 1996, while also occasionally dabbling in film. Ramone kept a low profile in the eight years up until his untimely death in 2004, but his signature speedy and simplistic style remains just as prevalent in today's rock scene as in the band's late 70s heyday.
- John Entwistle, born in Chiswick, London, was a renowned English musician, songwriter, singer, film and music producer. He is best recognized as the bass guitarist for the legendary rock band, The Who. His innovative playing style, which involved the use of trebly, aggressive lead lines, significantly redefined the role of the bass guitar in rock music. Entwistle's impressive career spanned over four decades, during which he also pursued solo projects and contributed to other musicians' work. Entwistle's musical journey began at an early age when he learned to play the piano and trumpet. However, it was the bass guitar that captured his heart, and he soon developed his signature style, blending lead and rhythm parts. This unique approach earned him the nickname "Thunderfingers." Entwistle's talent was not confined to playing instruments; he was also a prolific songwriter. His dark humor and knack for storytelling were evident in his compositions for The Who, including classics like "Boris the Spider" and "My Wife." In addition to his role in The Who, Entwistle had a successful solo career and worked on several film scores. He released seven studio albums, with Smash Your Head Against the Wall being his first solo endeavor. Despite his busy schedule, he always found time to mentor emerging artists and contribute to their albums. John Entwistle passed away in 2002, but his legacy continues to inspire countless musicians worldwide. His contributions to rock music, especially his revolutionary techniques on the bass guitar, have left an indelible mark on the genre.
- David Thomas Jones (30 December 1945 – 29 February 2012) was an English singer-songwriter, musician, actor and businessman, best known as a member of the band the Monkees, and for starring in the TV series of the same name. His acting credits include a Tony-nominated performance as the Artful Dodger in the original London and Broadway productions of Oliver! as well as a guest star role in a hallmark episode of The Brady Bunch television show and later reprised parody film; Love, American Style; and My Two Dads. Jones is considered a teen idol.
- With his remarkably smooth and velvety baritone voice, Bing Crosby rose from obscurity to become the most popular singer in the world, dominating the record and singles charts for a 20-year stretch and enjoying a more than respectable popularity for the rest of his life. He also became an extremely successful actor, appearing in 70+ films, and charmed moviegoers everywhere with his relaxed performing style. Following a string of early hit singles, Crosby was recruited by Paramount Pictures and enjoyed a long-time partnership with Bob Hope on the highly popular series of "Road" movies, which served up endearing cocktails of humor and song. He was also highly impressive in many of his solo efforts, most notably "Going My Way" (1944), for which Crosby won the Best Actor Academy Award, "A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court" (1949) and "The Country Girl" (1954). Crosby's reign as one of the leading pop culture figures in America was dampened somewhat by the rise of rock-n-roll, but he maintained a huge fanbase and songs like "White Christmas," "I'll Be Seeing You" and "Swinging on a Star" were unmistakably his. Crosby's success across multiple mediums was truly remarkable and he was arguably the leading entertainment figure of the 20th century.
- The crystalline vibrato of Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Robin Gibb was a key factor in four decades of hit songs by the Bee Gees, alongside brothers Barry and Maurice. In addition to co-writing nearly all of the band's greatest songs - from 1960s-era hits like "To Love Somebody" and "Massachusetts," to their record-breaking disco and funk songs of the 1970s for the Saturday Night Fever (1977) soundtrack - Robin's high, precise harmonies with his brothers helped sell some 220 million records, a figure comparable only to Elvis Presley, the Beatles and Michael Jackson. Save for a brief period in 1969, Gibb was present for the momentous highs, but also the intense lows of the Bee Gees' career, which culminated in 1988 with the death of baby brother Andy Gibb, and then in 2003 with the death of his twin, Maurice Gibb. However, to the delight of fans worldwide, Robin and Barry announced in 2009 that they would resume recording new songs. But the promise of new music never materialized due to mounting health issues for the singer. Still, the contributions of Robin Gibb and his brothers to pop music were almost without peer and were some of the most successful ever recorded.
- Joe Strummer, born John Graham Mellor in 1952, is best recognized as the co-founder, lyricist, rhythm guitarist and lead vocalist of the British punk rock band, The Clash. Born in Ankara, Turkey, to a Scottish nurse and a British diplomat, Strummer's early life was predominantly peripatetic, with his formative years spent in various parts of the world including Egypt, Mexico, and Germany. This global exposure had a profound influence on Strummer, shaping not only his worldview but also the multicultural sound that would later become a defining feature of The Clash. Musically active from 1976 until his untimely death in 2002, Strummer's career was marked by his staunch political and social beliefs, which he vocalized through his raw, powerful lyrics. He first cut his teeth in the London pub rock scene with his band The 101ers before forming The Clash in 1976. The Clash, often dubbed "The Only Band That Matters," became one of the most influential acts of the original wave of British punk rock. Their music, a potent mix of punk, reggae, dub, funk, and rockabilly, was matched by stridently left-wing lyrics that dealt with issues such as social injustices, racial conflict, and political apathy. Post-The Clash, Strummer continued to make waves in the music industry, dabbling in acting, composing film scores, and hosting a radio show. He formed the band Joe Strummer & The Mescaleros, releasing several critically acclaimed albums. Despite his varied pursuits, Strummer never lost sight of his punk roots, consistently using his platform to advocate for change. His legacy continues to inspire musicians worldwide, with his enduring message - that music can be a tool for social commentary and change - resonating with each new generation.
- Thomas Richard Bolin (August 1, 1951 – December 4, 1976) was an American guitarist and songwriter who played with Zephyr (from 1969 to 1971), James Gang (from 1973 to 1974), and Deep Purple (from 1975 to 1976), in addition to maintaining a notable career as a solo artist and session musician. Much of his discography was either unreleased at the time of recording, or had gone out of print and was not released again until years after his death by drug overdose at age 25.
- Warren Zevon, a musical figure of profound influence and character, was born on January 24, 1947, in Chicago, Illinois. Raised in a family with a turbulent history, his father was a notorious gambler linked with infamous mob figure Mickey Cohen. Despite this backdrop, Zevon discovered an escape through music, learning classical piano from a young age and later transitioning to folk and rock during his adolescent years. His educational journey includes a brief stint at Fairfax High School, Los Angeles, but he dropped out to focus on his burgeoning music career. Zevon's early professional life was marked by collaboration and experimentation. His initial foray into the music scene led him to form the lyme & cybelle duo with Violet Santangelo, achieving modest success with their single, "Follow Me." However, Zevon eventually went solo, producing his first self-titled album in 1969. Despite poor sales, he persisted, developing a reputation for his unique songwriting style, which often fused dark humor with raw accounts of human nature and the American experience. The pinnacle of Zevon's career arrived in the late '70s. His 1978 album, Excitable Boy, spearheaded by the hit single "Werewolves of London," thrust Zevon into the limelight. This album, characterized by its sardonic lyrics and rock rhythms, became a commercial success, solidifying his place in the annals of rock music. Beyond this, Zevon's legacy is punctuated by his struggles with alcoholism and his battle with lung cancer, which he confronted with courage until his death in 2003. Throughout, Warren Zevon's life and music continue to resonate, a testament to his indomitable spirit and unique perspective on the world.
- Raymond Daniel Manzarek Jr. (né Manczarek; February 12, 1939 – May 20, 2013) was an American musician, singer, producer, film director, and author, best known as a member of The Doors from 1965 to 1973, which he co-founded with singer and lyricist Jim Morrison. Manzarek was notable for performing on a keyboard bass during many live shows and some recordings, taking on a role usually filled by a bass guitar player. Manzarek recorded on every track of all eight Doors studio albums, and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1993. He was a co-founding member of Nite City from 1977 to 1978, and of Manzarek–Krieger from 2001 until his death in 2013. USA Today defined him as "one of the best keyboardists ever."
- Laura Ann Branigan (July 3, 1952 – August 26, 2004) was an American singer, songwriter, and actress. Her signature song, the platinum-certified 1982 single "Gloria", stayed on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 for 36 weeks, then a record for a female artist, peaking at No. 2. It also reached number one in Australia and Canada. In 1984, she reached number one in Canada and Germany with the U.S. No. 4 hit "Self Control". She also had success in the United Kingdom with both "Gloria" and "Self Control" making the Top 10 in the UK Singles Chart. Seeing her greatest level of success in the 1980s, Branigan's other singles included the Top 10 hit "Solitaire" (1983), the U.S. AC chart number one "How Am I Supposed to Live Without You" (1983), the Australian No. 2 hit "Ti Amo" (1984), and "The Power of Love" (1987). Her most successful album was 1984's platinum-selling Self Control. She also contributed songs to motion picture and television soundtracks, including the Grammy and Academy Award-winning Flashdance soundtrack (1983), and the Ghostbusters soundtrack (1984). In 1985, she won the Tokyo Music Festival with the song "The Lucky One". Her chart success began to wane as the decade closed and after her last two albums Laura Branigan (1990) and Over My Heart (1993) garnered little attention, she generally retired from public life for the rest of the 1990s. She began returning to performing in the early 2000s, most notably appearing as Janis Joplin in the off-Broadway musical Love, Janis. As she was recording new music and preparing a comeback to the music industry, she died at her home in 2004 from a previously undiagnosed cerebral aneurysm.Branigan and her music saw renewed popularity and public interest in 2019 in the US after "Gloria" was adopted by the NHL's St. Louis Blues as their unofficial victory song while they completed a historic mid-season turnaround to win their first Stanley Cup in franchise history, leading to the song entering ice hockey lore as an "unlikely championship anthem". Branigan's legacy manager and representative Kathy Golik embraced the trend and traveled to St. Louis to publicly represent Branigan among the Blues fanbase during the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs, later stating her belief that Branigan and "Gloria" "will forever be intertwined" with the Blues and the city of St. Louis.
- Jack Leroy Wilson Jr. (June 9, 1934 – January 21, 1984) was an American soul singer and performer. A tenor with a four-octave range, Wilson was a prominent figure in the transition of rhythm and blues into soul. Wilson was considered a master showman and one of the most dynamic singers and performers in pop, R&B, and rock & roll history, earning the nickname "Mr. Excitement". Wilson gained initial fame as a member of the R&B vocal group Billy Ward and His Dominoes. He went solo in 1957 and scored over 50 chart singles spanning the genres of R&B, pop, soul, doo-wop and easy listening, including 16 R&B Top 10 hits, in which six R&B of the repertoire ranked as number ones. On the Billboard Hot 100, Wilson scored 14 top 20 pop hits, six of which reached the top 10. Jackie Wilson was one of the most important and influential musical artists of his generation. A two-time Grammy Hall of Fame Inductee, and winner of the Rhythm and Blues Foundation's special Legacy Tribute Award in 2003, Jackie Wilson was inducted to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987. In 2004, Rolling Stone magazine ranked Jackie Wilson #69 on its list of the 100 Greatest Artists of All Time.In 2013, Jackie Wilson was inducted into the National Rhythm & Blues Hall of Fame.
- Ian Kevin Curtis (15 July 1956 – 18 May 1980) was an English singer-songwriter and musician. He was the lead singer and lyricist of the post-punk band Joy Division and recorded two albums with the group: Unknown Pleasures (1979) and Closer (1980). Curtis, who suffered from epilepsy and depression, died by suicide on the eve of Joy Division's first North American tour and shortly before the release of Closer. His suicide resulted in the band's dissolution and the subsequent formation of New Order. Curtis was known for his bass-baritone voice, dance style, and songwriting typically filled with imagery of desolation, emptiness, and alienation.
- John Lee Hooker, one of the most influential blues musicians in history, made an indelible mark on the world of music. Born in 1917, in Clarksdale, Mississippi, he came from a family with a deep-rooted love for music. His father, a sharecropper, and his mother were both passionate about the blues, and it was this familial passion that kindled his initial interest in music. By the tender age of 15, Hooker had already begun his journey into the musical world, inspired by the gospel music of the local church and the soulful tunes of the nearby juke joint. Hooker's career spanned over six decades, during which he released an impressive array of albums that showcased his unique style, a blend of talking blues and deep delta blues. His distinctive rhythmic style, known as "talking boogie," set him apart from his peers and earned him widespread acclaim. Notable breakthroughs in his career included his debut single "Boogie Chillen," released in 1948, which topped R&B charts and paved the way for a successful career in music. Other notable works include "I'm in the Mood" and "Crawling King Snake," which further solidified his position as a blues legend. Despite facing numerous challenges, including racial discrimination and financial hardship, Hooker remained true to his roots and continued to create music that resonated with people from all walks of life. His influence extended beyond the realm of blues to rock 'n' roll, inspiring the likes of The Rolling Stones, Eric Clapton, and ZZ Top. John Lee Hooker passed away in 2001, leaving behind a rich legacy that continues to inspire future generations of artists. He was posthumously inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame, affirming his status as one of the titans of blues music.
- Isaac Hayes, a name that resonates powerfully in the world of music and acting, was an American singer-songwriter, actor, and producer. Born on August 20, 1942, in Covington, Tennessee, Hayes endured a challenging childhood, losing both parents at a young age and being raised by his grandparents. Despite these hardships, Hayes found solace in music, teaching himself how to play piano, organ, and saxophone. His natural talent for music led him to become a session musician for Stax Records in Memphis, Tennessee, a pivotal moment that would shape his career. Hayes's contribution to the music industry is remarkable. He is best known for his work during the 1960s and 1970s when he helped shape the Southern soul and Memphis soul genres. As a songwriter, Hayes, alongside his writing partner David Porter, penned numerous hits for other artists, including Sam & Dave's "Soul Man." However, his most significant achievement came in 1971 with the release of the soundtrack for the film Shaft, which earned him an Academy Award for Best Original Song. This made Hayes the first African-American to win an Oscar in a non-acting category. Moreover, Hayes's talents were not confined to the realm of music. He also had a successful acting career. Perhaps his most memorable role was as the voice of Chef, a loveable school cafeteria worker, in the popular animated series South Park. This role brought a new generation of fans to Hayes and showcased his versatility as an entertainer. Despite facing personal and financial difficulties later in life, Hayes left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry before his death in 2008. His legacy continues to inspire countless musicians and actors worldwide.
- William John Clifton Haley (July 6, 1925 – February 9, 1981) was a pioneering American rock and roll musician. He is credited by many with first popularizing this form of music in the early 1950s with his group Bill Haley & His Comets and million-selling hits such as "Rock Around the Clock", "See You Later, Alligator", "Shake, Rattle and Roll", "Rocket 88", "Skinny Minnie", and "Razzle Dazzle", and has sold over 60 million records worldwide.
- Gary Moore, a renowned Northern Irish guitarist and singer, holds an esteemed place in the pantheon of music virtuosos. Born on April 4, 1952, in Belfast, his early fascination for music sparked an illustrious career, spanning over four decades. Beginning with the guitar at the tender age of eight, Moore's talent was undeniable. He drew significant influence from artists like Peter Green of Fleetwood Mac and Eric Clapton, molding a style that seamlessly blended blues, hard rock, and heavy metal. Moore's professional journey took flight as a member of the band "Skid Row," where he served as the lead guitarist during the late 1960s. His discernible prowess led him to have multiple collaborations with Phil Lynott and Thin Lizzy, one of the most popular rock bands of that era. Known for his fiery solo performances and distinctive guitar playing, Moore became a notable figure within the international music scene. His discography, including over 20 studio albums and countless live performances, is testament to both his musical range and relentless passion. Moreover, Gary Moore was not just a musician but also a prolific songwriter. His singles such as "Parisienne Walkways" and "Out in the Fields" have become iconic within the rock and blues genres. Despite his untimely demise on February 6, 2011, Moore's legacy continues to inspire budding musicians across the globe.
- Linda Louise McCartney, Lady McCartney (née Eastman; formerly See; September 24, 1941 – April 17, 1998) was an American musician, photographer, animal rights activist and entrepreneur. She was married to Paul McCartney of the Beatles. Linda was a professional photographer of celebrities and contemporary musicians. Her photos were also published in the book Linda McCartney's Sixties: Portrait of an Era in 1992.Linda married Paul in March 1969 at the register office in Marylebone, London and thereafter went to St John's Wood Church for a blessing. Her daughter, Heather Louise, from her marriage to Melville See, was adopted by her new husband. Together, the McCartneys had three other children. After the 1970 breakup of the Beatles, Paul and Linda formed the band Paul McCartney and Wings in 1971. She continued to be part of her husband's touring band following Wings' breakup in 1981 up until The New World Tour in 1993. Linda became an animal rights activist and wrote and published several vegetarian cookbooks. She also founded the Linda McCartney Foods company with her husband. In 1995, she was diagnosed with breast cancer and died from the disease in 1998 at the age of 56.
- Harry Edward Nilsson III (June 15, 1941 – January 15, 1994), usually credited as Nilsson, was an American singer-songwriter who achieved the peak of his commercial success in the early 1970s. His work is characterized by pioneering vocal overdub experiments, returns to the Great American Songbook, and fusions of Caribbean sounds. A tenor with a 3½ octave range, Nilsson was one of the few major pop-rock recording artists of his era to achieve significant commercial success without ever performing major public concerts or undertaking regular tours. The craft of his songs and the defiant attitude he projected remains a touchstone for later generations of indie rock musicians.Born in Brooklyn, Nilsson moved to Los Angeles as a teenager to escape his family's poor financial situation. While working as a computer programmer at a bank, he grew interested in musical composition and close-harmony singing, and was successful in having some of his songs recorded by various artists such as the Monkees. In 1967, he debuted on RCA Victor with the LP Pandemonium Shadow Show, followed by a variety of releases that include a collaboration with Randy Newman (Nilsson Sings Newman, 1970) and the original children's story The Point! (1971). His most commercially successful album, Nilsson Schmilsson (1971), produced the international top 10 singles "Without You" and "Coconut". His other top 10 hit, "Everybody's Talkin'" (1968), was a prominent song in the 1969 film Midnight Cowboy. A version of Nilsson's "One", released by Three Dog Night in 1969, also reached the U.S. top 10.During a 1968 press conference, the Beatles were asked what their favorite American group was and answered "Nilsson". He soon formed close friendships with John Lennon and Ringo Starr. In the 1970s, Nilsson and Lennon joined Starr as members of the Hollywood Vampires drinking club, embroiling themselves in a number of widely publicized, alcohol-fueled incidents. At the same time, they produced one collaborative album, Pussy Cats (1974). After 1977, Nilsson left RCA, and his record output diminished. In response to Lennon's 1980 murder, he took a hiatus from the music industry to campaign for gun control. For the rest of his life, he recorded only sporadically. Nilsson created the first remix album (Aerial Pandemonium Ballet, 1971) and recorded the first mashup song ("You Can't Do That", 1967). He was voted No. 62 in Rolling Stone's 2015 list of the "100 Greatest Songwriters of All Time", where he was described as "a pioneer of the Los Angeles studio sound, a crucial bridge between the baroque psychedelic pop of the late Sixties and the more personal singer-songwriter era of the Seventies". The RIAA certified Nilsson Schmilsson and Son of Schmilsson as gold records, indicating over 500,000 units sold each. His honors include Grammy Awards for two of his recordings; Best Contemporary Vocal Performance, Male in 1970 for "Everybody's Talkin'" and Best Pop Vocal Performance, Male in 1973 for "Without You". In 1994, Nilsson died of a heart attack while in the midst of recording new material for a since-unreleased comeback album.
Liam Payne died from multiple trauma and internal and external hemorrhage, resulting from a fall from the third-floor balcony of his hotel room in Buenos Aires. His toxicology results revealed multiple drugs, including pink cocaine, cocaine, benzodiazepine, and crack, in his system at the time of his death.
Born Aug. 29, 1993 in Wolverhampton, England, U.K., Liam James Payne had only one working kidney at birth, which led to undergoing regular medical tests until the age of four, including 32 injections in the morning and evening to deal with the pain. Despite his initial health problems, Payne grew to be a spirited youth who engaged in multiple schoolyard fistfights before funneling his considerable energy into cross-country and boxing. At the age of 14, he auditioned for "The X Factor" (ITV, 2004- ) in 2008, but despite his success, was advised by Simon Cowell to return in two years. In 2010, he earned a standing ovation from the audience and Cowell for singing "Cry Me a River," but was sent for additional training at the show's musical boot camp by the judges. His rendition of "Stop Crying Your Heart Out" was deemed not strong enough for him to make the cut as a solo singer.Happily, this opened other professional doors for Payne, who was teamed with fellow contestants Niall Horan, Zayn Malik, Harry Styles and Louis Tomlinson to form One Direction. As a boy band, they placed third on "The X Factor" and ascended to international superstardom with the 2011 release of their debut single, "What Makes You Beautiful." Hitting number one on the U.K. singles chart and breaking sales records, the song paved the way for a follow-up hit, "Gotta Be You," and their global smash debut album, Up All Night. Continuing their meteoric rise, the band notched a sold-out U.K. tour and won three 4Music Awards (Best Group, Breakthrough and Video), a Brit Award (Best British Single for "What Makes You Beautiful") and two U.K. Kids' Choice Awards (Favorite U.K. Newcomer and Favorite Band).Their European success led to their American breakthrough, with their album hitting No. 1 and One Direction replicating their European success in the States with a flood of endorsements, publicity appearances and television performances. They were featured as the musical guest (and appeared in a skit) on the Sofia Vergara-hosted episode of "Saturday Night Live" (NBC, 1975- ), booked a guest spot on "iCarly" (Nickelodeon, 2007- ), and announced plans for a 2012 world tour. Unlike the previous wave of boy bands, One Direction eschewed matching clothing and tightly choreographed dancing, radiating instead a seemingly less manufactured, less polished image. Although much of One Direction's appeal came from their unified front of playful energy, each member stood out in his own way. Payne, whose life experiences seemed to grant him a more grounded, mature perspective than his fellow band members, had a longtime girlfriend, dancer Danielle Peazer, and spoke of eventually marrying her. Although some fans appreciated Payne's sensible outlook, others sent Peazer death threats, which caused Payne to speak out against cyber-bullying.By Jonathan Riggs- Carl Dean Wilson (December 21, 1946 – February 6, 1998) was an American musician, singer, and songwriter who co-founded the Beach Boys. He is best remembered as their lead guitarist, as the youngest brother of bandmates Brian and Dennis Wilson, and as the group's de facto leader in the early 1970s. He was also the band's musical director on stage from 1965 until his death. Influenced by the guitar playing of Chuck Berry and the Ventures, Wilson's initial role in the group was that of lead guitarist and backing vocals, but he performed lead vocals on several of their later hits, including "God Only Knows" (1966), "Good Vibrations" (1966), and "Kokomo" (1988). Unlike other members of the band, he often played alongside the studio musicians employed during the group's critical and commercial peak in the mid 1960s. After Brian's reduced involvement with the group, Carl produced the bulk of their albums between 20/20 (1969) and Holland (1973), where the production was nominally credited to "the Beach Boys". Concurrently, he spent several years challenging his draft status as a conscientious objector. During the 1980s, Wilson attempted to launch a solo career, releasing the albums Carl Wilson (1981) and Young Blood (1983). In the 1990s, he recorded material with Gerry Beckley and Robert Lamm, later released for the posthumous album Like a Brother (2000). He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of the Beach Boys in 1988. Wilson was also a member of the Movement of Spiritual Inner Awareness, a religious corporation. He died, aged 51, of lung cancer in 1998.
- Steven Earl "Steve" Gaines (September 14, 1949 – October 20, 1977) was an American musician. He is best known as a guitarist, vocalist and songwriter with rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd from 1976 until his death in the October 1977 airplane crash that claimed other band members and crew. He was the younger brother of Cassie Gaines, a backup vocalist with the band.
- Died 1995, age 47Rory Gallagher, hailing from the Emerald Isle, was a titan in the world of blues and rock music. Born in Ballyshannon, Ireland, on March 2, 1948, Gallagher was a self-taught guitarist who began his journey into music when he won a plastic ukulele at a carnival at just nine years old. This initial love for music fueled his passion and, by the age of fifteen, he formed his first band, "The Fontana Showband", which later changed its name to "The Impact". Gallagher's passion for the guitar was so profound that he would often use a bottle neck or a knife as a makeshift slide, further exemplifying his dedication to creating unique sounds in his music. Gallagher's extraordinary talent eventually propelled him onto the international stage as a solo artist. In 1971, he released his self-titled debut album Rory Gallagher, which received overwhelming critical acclaim. His distinctive blend of blues, folk, and jazz, combined with an innate ability to connect with audiences, set him apart from his contemporaries. Throughout the 70s and 80s, Gallagher released a series of successful albums including Tattoo, Against the Grain and Photo-Finish, truly establishing himself as a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. Despite his meteoric rise to fame, Gallagher remained grounded and dedicated to his craft. He was well-known for his down-to-earth demeanor and tireless work ethic, often playing up to six hours a day on his well-worn, iconic Fender Stratocaster. His commitment to his fans was equally impressive, as he would often perform despite being ill or injured, reflecting his unwavering dedication to delivering electrifying performances. Rory Gallagher's untimely death in 1995 left a significant void in the world of blues and rock, but his legacy continues to inspire musicians and fans globally. His life and career remain a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and raw talent in music.
- Gerald "Gerry" Rafferty (16 April 1947 – 4 January 2011) was a Scottish rock singer-songwriter known for his solo hits "Baker Street", "Right Down the Line" and "Night Owl", as well as "Stuck in the Middle with You", recorded with the band Stealers Wheel. Rafferty was born into a working-class family in Paisley, Renfrewshire, Scotland. His mother taught him both Irish and Scottish folk songs when he was a boy; later, he was influenced by the music of The Beatles and Bob Dylan. He joined the folk-pop group The Humblebums in 1969. After they disbanded in 1971, he recorded his first solo album, Can I Have My Money Back? Rafferty and Joe Egan formed the group Stealers Wheel in 1972 and produced several hits, most notably "Stuck in the Middle with You" and "Star". In 1978, he recorded his second solo album, City to City, which included "Baker Street", his most popular song.
- Peter, Paul and Mary were a United States folk-singing trio whose nearly 50-year career began with their rise to become a paradigm for 1960s folk music. The trio was composed of folk song writer Peter Yarrow, Paul Stookey and Mary Travers. After the death of Travers in 2009, Yarrow and Stookey continued to perform as a duo under their individual names.
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Gene Vincent
Vincent Eugene Craddock (February 11, 1935 – October 12, 1971), known as Gene Vincent, was an American musician who pioneered the styles of rock and roll and rockabilly. His 1956 top ten hit with his Blue Caps, "Be-Bop-A-Lula", is considered a significant early example of rockabilly. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Rockabilly Hall of Fame. - 103Benjamin Orzechowski (September 8, 1947 – October 4, 2000), known professionally as Benjamin Orr, was an American musician best known as a singer, bassist and co founder of the rock band the Cars. He sang lead vocals on several of their best known songs, including "Just What I Needed", "Let's Go" and "Drive". He also scored a moderate solo hit with "Stay the Night." Orr was posthumously inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of the Cars in 2018.
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Mick Ronson
Michael Ronson (26 May 1946 – 29 April 1993) was an English guitarist, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, arranger, and producer. He achieved critical and commercial success working with David Bowie as one of the Spiders from Mars. He was a session musician—who recorded with Bowie followed by several albums with Ian Hunter, also Morrissey—as well as a sideman in touring bands with Van Morrison and Bob Dylan.He also recorded several solo albums, the most popular being Slaughter on 10th Avenue, which reached No. 9 on the UK Albums Chart. Ronson played with various bands after his time with Bowie. He was named the 64th greatest guitarist of all time by Rolling Stone in 2003 and 41st in 2012 by the same magazine. - 105Paul Charles Caravello (July 12, 1950 – November 24, 1991) better known by his stage name Eric Carr, was an American musician and multi-instrumentalist who was the drummer for the rock band Kiss from 1980 to 1991. Caravello was selected as the new Kiss drummer after Peter Criss departed, when he chose the stage name "Eric Carr" and took up The Fox persona. He remained a member of Kiss until his death from heart cancer on November 24, 1991, at the age of 41.
- 106Stephen Maynard Clark (23 April 1960 – 8 January 1991) was an English musician. He was the principal songwriter and lead guitarist for the English hard rock band Def Leppard, until 1991, when he died from alcohol poisoning. In 2007, Clark was ranked No. 11 on Classic Rock Magazine's "100 Wildest Guitar Heroes". In 2019, Clark was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Def Leppard.
- 107George Glenn Jones (September 12, 1931 – April 26, 2013) was an American musician, singer and songwriter. He achieved international fame for his long list of hit records, including his best known song "He Stopped Loving Her Today", as well as his distinctive voice and phrasing. For the last twenty years of his life, Jones was frequently referred to as the greatest living country singer. Country music scholar Bill Malone writes, "For the two or three minutes consumed by a song, Jones immerses himself so completely in its lyrics, and in the mood it conveys, that the listener can scarcely avoid becoming similarly involved." Waylon Jennings expressed a similar opinion in his song "It's Alright": "If we all could sound like we wanted to, we'd all sound like George Jones." The shape of his nose and facial features earned Jones the nickname "The Possum".Born in Texas, Jones first heard country music when he was seven and was given a guitar at the age of nine. He married his first wife, Dorothy Bonvillion, in 1950, and was divorced in 1951. He served in the United States Marine Corps and was discharged in 1953. He married Shirley Ann Corley in 1954. In 1959, Jones recorded "White Lightning", written by J. P. Richardson, which launched his career as a singer. His second marriage ended in divorce in 1968; he married fellow country music singer Tammy Wynette a year later. Years of alcoholism compromised his health and led to his missing many performances, earning him the nickname "No Show Jones". After his divorce from Wynette in 1975, Jones married his fourth wife, Nancy Sepulvado, in 1983 and became sober for good in 1999. Jones died in 2013, aged 81, from hypoxic respiratory failure. During his career, Jones had more than 150 hits, both as a solo artist and in duets with other artists. Robert Christgau has called him "honky-tonk's greatest honky".
- 108Mary Esther Wells (May 13, 1943 – July 26, 1992) was an American singer who helped to define the emerging sound of Motown in the early 1960s. Along with the Supremes, the Miracles, the Temptations, and the Four Tops, Wells was said to have been part of the charge in black music onto radio stations and record shelves of mainstream America, "bridging the color lines in music at the time."With a string of hit singles composed mainly by Smokey Robinson, including "The One Who Really Loves You"", "Two Lovers" (1962), the Grammy-nominated "You Beat Me to the Punch" (1962) and her signature hit, "My Guy" (1964), she became recognized as "The Queen of Motown" until her departure from the company in 1964, at the height of her popularity. She was one of Motown's first singing superstars.
- Died 2002, age 50Douglas Glenn Colvin (September 18, 1951 – June 5, 2002), known professionally as Dee Dee Ramone, was an American musician, singer and songwriter best known as founding member, songwriter, bassist and occasional lead vocalist for the punk rock band the Ramones. Though nearly all of the Ramones' songs were credited equally to all the band members, Dee Dee was the band's most prolific lyricist and composer, writing many of their best-known songs, such as "53rd & 3rd", "Commando", "Wart Hog", "Rockaway Beach", "Poison Heart" and "Bonzo Goes To Bitburg", retitled "My Brain Is Hanging Upside Down". The song "Bonzo Goes to Bitburg" won the New York Music Award for best independent single of the year in 1986 and Animal Boy won for best album. Beauvoir and Dee Dee later co-wrote the song "Cut Me To Pieces", which was featured in the film Rock and Roll High School Forever. Dee Dee was initially the band's lead vocalist, though his (then) inability to sing and play bass at the same time resulted in original drummer Joey Ramone taking over the lead vocalist duties (however, he still sang lead vocals in the band on occasion). Dee Dee was the band's bassist and songwriter from 1974 until 1989, when he left to pursue a short-lived career in hip hop music under the name Dee Dee King. He soon returned to his punk roots and released three solo albums featuring brand-new songs, many of which were later recorded by the Ramones. He toured the world playing his new songs, Ramones songs and some old favorites in small clubs, and continued to write songs for the Ramones until 1996, when the band officially retired. Dee Dee struggled with drug addiction for much of his life, particularly heroin. He began using drugs as a teenager and continued to use for the majority of his adult life. He appeared clean in the early 1990s but began using heroin again sometime later. He died from a heroin overdose on June 5, 2002.
- 110Phil Everly was a member of the musical group The Everly Brothers.
- John Dawson Winter III (February 23, 1944 – July 16, 2014), known as Johnny Winter, was an American musician, singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and producer. Best known for his high-energy blues-rock albums and live performances in the late 1960s and 1970s, Winter also produced three Grammy Award-winning albums for blues singer and guitarist Muddy Waters. After his time with Waters, Winter recorded several Grammy-nominated blues albums. In 1988, he was inducted into the Blues Foundation Hall of Fame and in 2003, he was ranked 63rd in Rolling Stone magazine's list of the "100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time".
- 112Richard Shannon Hoon (September 26, 1967 – October 21, 1995) was an American singer-songwriter and musician. He was the lead singer of the band Blind Melon from 1990 until his death in 1995.
- 113Carl Lee Perkins (April 9, 1932 – January 19, 1998) was an American singer-songwriter who recorded most notably at the Sun Studio, in Memphis, beginning in 1954. Amongst his best-known songs are 'Blue Suede Shoes', 'Matchbox' and 'Everybody's Trying To Be My Baby'. According to Charlie Daniels, "Carl Perkins' songs personified the rockabilly era, and Carl Perkins' sound personifies the rockabilly sound more so than anybody involved in it, because he never changed." Perkins's songs were recorded by artists (and friends) as influential as Elvis Presley, the Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, Johnny Cash and Eric Clapton which further established his place in the history of popular music. Paul McCartney claimed that "if there were no Carl Perkins, there would be no Beatles."Called "the King of Rockabilly", he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Rockabilly Hall of Fame, the Memphis Music Hall of Fame, and the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame. He also received a Grammy Hall of Fame Award.
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Died 2012, age 47
Adam Yauch, famously known as MCA, was an influential figure in the music industry, best known for being a founding member of the pioneering hip-hop group, Beastie Boys. Born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1964, Yauch grew up with an avid interest in music and film, which later played a significant role in his career. He attended Edward R. Murrow High School in Brooklyn's Midwood neighborhood, where he met Mike Diamond and Adam Horovitz, forming the core of what would soon become the Beastie Boys. In 1981, the Beastie Boys emerged from New York City's hardcore punk scene and gradually transitioned into hip-hop, a move that was largely influenced by Yauch. His raspy voice became one of the band's most distinctive elements, contributing significantly to their unique sound. The Beastie Boys' debut album, Licensed to Ill, was the first rap record to top the Billboard chart, cementing the trio's place in music history. Throughout their career, they released several critically acclaimed albums and were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, a testament to their impact on popular music. Aside from his musical exploits, Yauch was also an accomplished filmmaker under his pseudonym, Nathanial Hörnblowér. He directed several of Beastie Boys' music videos and founded Oscilloscope Laboratories, an independent film production and distribution company. A passionate advocate for social justice, Yauch notably organized the Tibetan Freedom Concerts in the late 1990s to raise awareness about human rights abuses in Tibet. Despite his death in 2012, Yauch's legacy continues to influence and inspire musicians and activists around the world. - John Graham Mitchell (9 July 1946 – 12 November 2008) was an English drummer and former child actor, who was best known for his work in the Jimi Hendrix Experience. He was inducted into the Modern Drummer Hall of Fame in 2009.
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Brad Delp
Bradley Edward Delp (June 12, 1951 – March 9, 2007) was an American singer and songwriter. He is best known as the lead vocalist of the rock bands Boston and RTZ. - 117
Percy Sledge
died 2015, age 73
Percy Tyrone Sledge (November 25, 1941 – April 14, 2015) was an American R&B, soul and gospel singer. He is best known for the song "When a Man Loves a Woman", a No. 1 hit on both the Billboard Hot 100 and R&B singles charts in 1966. It was awarded a million-selling, Gold-certified disc from the RIAA. Having previously worked as a hospital orderly in the early 1960s, Sledge achieved his strongest success in the late 1960s and early 1970s with a series of emotional soul songs. In later years, Sledge received the Rhythm and Blues Foundation's Career Achievement Award. He was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2005. - Clarence Anicholas Clemons Jr. (January 11, 1942 – June 18, 2011), also known as The Big Man, was an American saxophonist, musician and actor. From 1972 until his death, he was a member of Bruce Springsteen's E Street Band, playing the saxophone.He released several solo albums and in 1985, had a hit single with "You're a Friend of Mine," a duet with Jackson Browne. As a guest musician he also featured on Aretha Franklin's classic "Freeway of Love" and on Twisted Sister's "Be Chrool to Your Scuel" as well as performing in concert with the Grateful Dead and Ringo Starr & His All-Starr Band. As an actor Clemons featured in several films, including New York, New York and Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure. He also made cameo appearances in several TV series, including Diff'rent Strokes, Nash Bridges, The Simpsons, My Wife and Kids, and The Wire. Together with his television writer friend Don Reo he published his semi-fictional autobiography told in third person, Big Man: Real Life & Tall Tales, in 2009. Clemons suffered a stroke on June 12, 2011, and died of complications from it on June 18. Three years following his death, Clemons was posthumously inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, along with the other members of the E Street Band.
- 119Lesley Sue Goldstein (May 2, 1946 – February 16, 2015), known professionally as Lesley Gore, was an American singer, songwriter, actress, and activist. At the age of 16 (in 1963) she recorded the pop hit "It's My Party" (a US number one), and followed it up with other hits including "Judy's Turn to Cry", "She's a Fool", "You Don't Own Me", "Maybe I Know" and "California Nights". Gore also worked as an actress and composed songs with her brother, Michael Gore, for the 1980 film Fame, for which she was nominated for an Academy Award. She hosted an LGBT-oriented public television show, In the Life, on American TV in the 2000s, and was active until 2014.
- 120Former Cream bassist died in Suffolk Engand October 25, 2015. He was 71.It's nearly impossible to get through a conversation about the bass guitar without landing at one point or another on Jack Bruce. Best known as one of the founding members of the legendary rock and roll band Cream, Bruce established himself as far more than just a backup player to band mate and musical demigod Eric Clapton. Although he held steady contention for some of the highest superlatives that four-string rock music has to offer, Bruce's talents were hardly limited to the bass: a gifted cellist, pianist, and songwriter, the multifaceted rock star stood throughout his life and career as a unique talent and an artistic and cultural icon. His death on October 25, 2014 was greeted with deep sorrow by friends and fans around the world.
