Rockers' Memorial: Rock Stars we Lost in the Previous Decade
The previous decade has seen many losses in the world of rock. While some of these are rockers, there are other important members on the "administrative" side of rock (i.e. producers). This will be a comprehensive list.
Here we go!
2010
Jan 4 - Tony Clarke, notorious producer most known for work with the Moody Blues.
Jan 21 - Geoff Workman producer responsible for producing hits from Foreigner, Toto, The Cars, and Journey among others
Feb 14 - Doug Fieger (pictured below) founder of The Knack in 1978, and responsible for writing My Sharona, their biggest hit in 1979, alongside lead guitarist Berton Averre
Feb 28 - Tom "T-Bone" Wolk - Session bass player mot remembered for assisting Daryl Hall and John Oates, and for being a member of the SNL House Band.
March 17 - Alex Chilton, lead singer of the Box Tops most remembered for their 1967 hit, The Letter, which at the beginning of the next decade was made famous again by Joe Cocker.
April 8 - Malcom McLaren, known for his SEX clothes shop ran with girlfriend Vivianne Westwood. The two helped contribute to the rise of many punk acts in the mid 70s, and even employed Chrissie Hynde for a time, who, by 1978, would move on to start the Pretenders.
May 16 - Ronnie James Dio, known for being the lead singer of the Richie Blackmore-fronted Rainbow. Also replaced Ozzy in Sabbath before starting his own group,Dio, in 1982. His most iconic vocals are on Man in The Silver Mounain, and Holy Diver
June 23 - Pete Quaife, original bass player for the Kinks between 1963 and 1969.
Sep 3- Mike Edwards - Remembered for being an early member of ELO playing between 1972 and early 1975. He then chose to quit, with Melvyn Gale replacing him for 1975's Face the Music.
Nov 3 - Jim Clench - Part of April Wine's early lineup. Eventually left them for BTO.
Dec 17 - Captain Beefheart - Born Don Glen Vilet, he was the leader of the Magic Band betwen 1964 and 1982. The band was mostly rooted in blues rock, but also played traces of jazz.
2011
January 4 - Gerry Rafferty - Remembered for being lead singer of Steelers Wheel who had a hit in 1972 with Stuck in The Middle with You. Outside of Steelers Wheel, Rafferty had hits with Baker Street and Right Down the Line in 1978 and 1979 respectively.
February 6 - Gary Moore - Best known for being the guitarist in the early lineup of Thin Lizzy and remembered for being a virtuoso guitarist.
May 13 - Jack Richardson - Responsible for producing many hit records by Canadians the Guess Who between 1969 and 1975.
June 18 - Clarence Clemons - Legendary saxophonist for Bruce Springsteen's E Street Band. Earlier in the year, he had contributed a saxophone solo to...wait for it...LADY GAGA'S hit The Edge of Glory.
July 11- Rob Grill - Bass player and lead singer of The Grass Roots. His voice can be identified on hits such as Midnight Confession and Let's Live for Today. Been a long time since those songs were on the radio...
September 21 - John Du Cann - Member of Atomic Rooster in the 1970s. The band arose from the ashes of The Crazy World of Arthur Brown. Carl Palmer, left the band early to join Keith Emerson and Greg Lake in Emerson Lake and Palmer.
November 26 - Keef Hartley - He formed his namesake band in 1968, and they played in Woodstock the following year.
December 25 - Jim Sherwood - Jazz musician known for being saxophonist, percussionist, and occassional vocalist for Frank Zappa and his Mothers of Invention.
2012
January 2 - Larry Reinhardt - Joined Iron Butterfly in 1970 alongside Mike Pinera of Blues Image fame. The album they made that year was credited to Iron Butterfly featuring Pinera and Reinhardt.
January 3 - Bob Weston - Member of Fleetwood Mac in the early 70s. He also worked wit hMurray Head and Fleetwood Mac aluminus Danny Kirwan.
February 29 - Davey Jones - Known for being a member of the Monkees between 1966 and 1971, their biggest success time. David Bowie actually changed his name from David Jones to avoid being mistaken for the Monkees' Davey Jones.
March 3 - Ronnie Montrose - In 1973, Montrose started his namesake group with Sammy Hagar. While the band was not really given much attention, Hagar was rememberd for his 1984 hit I Can't Drive 55, but perhaps most noteably in 1985 when he joined Van Halen taking over David Lee Roth's spot.
March 12 - Michael Hossack - In 1970, he along John Hartman, became the backbone for the Doobies' dual drummer setup. Hossack is responsible for drumming on the bands first few records (through to 1973's The Captain and Me). He was replaced by Keith Knudson for 1974's What Were Once Vices, Now Are Habbits before Hossack returned in the late 1970s.
April 5 - Jim Marshall - While not a rocker in his own right, he is remembered as the Father (or the Lord) of the Loud. He is responsible for inventing Marshall amplifiers, which were amps of choice of many popular guitarists.
April 17 - Graham Simpson - founding member of Roxy Music.
April 19 - Levon Helm - Drummer, vocalist, and founding member of The Band. He is responsible for singing on some of their notable records such as The Weight and Up on Cripple Creek.
May 13 - Donald "Duck" Dunn - Bass player of Booker T and the MGs and responsible for that driving bass on Green Onions.
June 7 - Bob Welch - Another Fleetwood Mac aluminus in their early days. He is rememberd for his breathy vocals on the Mac's 1973 hit Hypnotized, which is, in my opinion, a "sign of things to come" with Buckingham and Nicks and about one of the few songs known by fans from before 1975. Outside of FM, he is remembered for his 1977 smash solo hit, Sentimental Lady.
July 16 - Jon Lord - He's been in and out of a few bands, but is perhaps best remembered for being the founding member of Deep Purple, being first to be recruited by ex-Searchers drummer/vocalist Chris Curtis in his newfound project Roundabout. Lord was responsible for string arrangements and a notorious organist. Before Deep Purple, he even contributed that tiggling piano and sparse backing vocals to the Kinks 1964 hit, You Really Got Me. Lord retired from Purple and music in 2001, before being replaced by Don Airey of Rainbow fame and Ozzy's solo band.
August 15 - Bob Birch - Member of Elton John's band from 1999. Replaced by John Bassonette in 2013.
August 18 - Scott McKenzie - Best known for the 1967 psychadelic song San Francisco(Be Sure to Wear Flowers in Your Head).
September 5 - Joe South - Recorded the original version of Hush in 1965, before Deep Purple covered it in 1968.
November 24 - Chris Stamp - Producer for many pscyhadelic bands such as the Jimi Hendrix Experience and Arthur Brown, and founder of Track Records.
2013
Jan 19 - Steve Knight - keyboardist for the forgotten rock band Mountain who is remembered in the early 1970s for their hit Mississippi Queen.
March 6 - Alvin Lee - guitarist/vocalist for Ten Years After, whose most remembered hit is the 1971 single I'd Love to Change the World.
March 7 - Peter Banks - Alongside Chris Squire, he played in Mabel Greer's Toy Shop in 1967-1968, before the band morphed into Yes. Banks featured on their self-titled debut album of 1969 and the 1970 follow-up Time and a Word. Although Howe had not yet joined Yes, his picture can be seen on the US pressing of TIAW.
April 22 - Richie Havens - Known for his 1967 hit No Opportunity Neccessary, No Experience Needed, Havens was the opening act of the 1969 Woodstock festival. He'd developed an intense rhythm guitar-playing style.
May 20 - Ray Manzarek - Keyboard player and founder of The Doors alongside singer/songwritter Jim Morrison. Manzarek played on all eight of the band's records and is perhaps most remembered for playing keyboard bass live and sometimes even in studio. Many of you folks may not know this, but the Doors never really had an actual bass player though they did sometimes employ some on the side.
May 21 - Trevor Bolder - Bolder was bass player/producer on Bowie's rearly to mid 1970s records, but is perhaps most remembered for his time with Uriah Heep - whom he joined in 1977. He also contributed to two solo albums from Heep aluminus Ken Hensley.
July 26 - J.J. Cale - Prominent blues guitarist most remembered for his many collaborations with Leon Russell and Eric Clapton. Cale is responsible for writting some of the songs that became hits for E.C. throughout the 70s.
October 27 - Lou Reed - Without a doubt, an important figure in the 70s rock scene. Reed was guitarist/singer/songwritter for the Velvet Underground and had a prosperous solo career. His most remembered hits are Walk on The Wild Side, New York Telephone Conversation, Satelite of Love, and Conney Island Baby as well as Sweet Jane.
December 20 - David Richards - Known for producing the last few records for Queen starting with 1986's A Kind of Magic, as well some of Bowie's late 80s/90s albums such as Never Let me Down (1987) and Outside (1995).
2014
Jan 2 - Jay Traynor - Known for being one of the founders of pop rock band Jay and the Americans.
Jan 18 - Dennis Frederickson - Known as Fergie Frederickson or sometimes just Fergie (not to be confused with the female Fergie), Frederickson made one album with Toto, Isolation (1984) which went gold. He left Toto in 1985 after being unable to tour due to stage fright.
March 18 - Scott Asheton - Drummer for the Stooges.
March 18 - Joe Lala - Cofounded Blues Image with singer/guitarist Mike Pinera with their hit Ride Captain Ride. Pinera shortly left Blues Image for Iron Butterfly.
April 30 - Paul Goddard - Original bass player for the Atlanta Rhythm Section
May 11 - Ed Gagliardi - Original bass player for Foreigner. He featured on their first two records, but was asked to leave during the making of 1979's Head Games, his spot being taken over by Rick Willis of Bad Company fame.
June 15 - Casey Kasem - Known for Casey Kasem's Top 40 in the 70s and 80s and a prominent DJ in rock radio.
July 11 - Tommy Ramone - The founding member of the most influentual punk rock acts, The Ramones. Tommy's death leaves the Ramones as a band with no original members left.
July 30 - Dick Wagner - A prominent involver on Alice Cooper's records between 1972's School's Out and 1983's DaDa. Wagner was also a member of KISS and founder of his own Detroit-area band, the Frost.
August 28 - Glenn Cornick - The original bass player for Jethro Tull. Cornick featured on their first three albums before being "invited to leave." Cornick's replacement came in the form of Jeffery Hammond, Ian Anderson's childhood friend who was often credited as Jefferey Hammond-Hammond.
Oct. 4 - Paul Revere - Born Paul Revere Dick, he was the founding member of Paul Revere and the Raiders whose signature song is the 1971 hit Indian Reservation among others.
Oct 25 - Jack Bruce - Founder of British psychadelic rock band Cream alongside drummer Ginger Baker and guitarist Eric Clapton. Cream lasted until 1969.
Dec 2 - Bobby Keys - Long-time saxophonist for the Rolling Stones most noteably on their hits such as Brown Sugar, Miss You, and Waiting on a Friend.
Dec 22 - Joe Cocker - Known for his many covers especially of Beatles songs as well as the Box Tops The Letter with the Grease band. After some hibernation, Cocker rebounded in 1986 with Up Where we Belong - a duet with Jennifer Warner.
2015
Jan 10 - Tim Drummond - Notorious bass player for playing with artists like James Brown, Bob Dylan, Eric Clapton, and Neil Young among others.
Jan 18 - Dallas Taylor - He was the side drummer of Crosby Stills and Nash (and Young). Apart from him, Stephen Stills had to do a lot of the instrumental parts on their 1969 self-titled debut, which was clear that the band needed more manpower to tour. They negated this by recruiting Neil Young in the summer, as well as Motown bass player Greg Reeves.
Feb 12 - Steve Strange - Known as a member of the Moors Murderers, he became a prominent musician in the punk scene and also played with briefly with Chrissie Hynde at the advice of Anchor Records manager Dave Hill who was looking to aquire talent to record on his newfound label.
Feb 16 - Lesley Gore - Her 1963 hit, It's my Party came out on top in the US, and was covered, and even sampled or interopolated since then. Screw you Drake!
March 11 - Jimmy Greenspoon - A member of the early version of 3 Dog Night alongside guitarist Mick Alsup, drummer Floyd Sneed, and bassist Joe Schreme.
Mar 15 - Mike Porcaro - The middle of the so-called "Porcaro brothers." He debuted on Toto's fourth album in 1982 with its signature song, Africa. He had been a member until his death.
Mar 16 - Andy Fraser - Bass player and founder of Free in 1968. Free had a hit two years later with All Right Now.
Mar 20 - A.J. Pero - Pero had been the long-time drummer of Twisted Sister known for its 1984 record Stay Hungry that yielded their two biggest hits - I Wanna Rock and We're Not Gonna Take It. In 2013, Pero took on a new venture as being drummer for Adrenaline Mob.
April 3 - Bob Burns - The original drummer for Lynyrd Sknynyrd playing from 1964 to 1974. Burns left after Second Helping.
April 14 - Percy Sledge - Undoubtedly remembered for his 1966 hit When a Man Loves a Woman.
April 28 - Jack ely - SInger of the Kingsmen and responsible for their 1963 hit Louie Louie.
April 30 - Ben E. King - Member of the Drifters remembered for their hit Under the Broadwalk, but as a solo artist, he is remembered for his 1961 number 1 hit, Stand by Me. At the Bilboard Music Awards, Imagine Dragons performed an epic cover of the song.
May 5 - Greg Gruber - Original bass player of Rainbow.
May 14 - B.B. King - Legendary blues performer remembered for his 1972 hit The Thrill is Gone. In 1988, he featured on U2's When Love Comes to Town.
June 27 - Chris Sqire - Alongside Peter Banks, he formed Mabel Greer's Toy Shop in 1967. He is a founding member of Yes and the constant original until his death. Yes continue with Billy Sherwood who was side guitarist in the 90s.
July 18 - Buddy Buie - A popular writer remembered for his work with the Classics IV and the Atlanta Rhythm Section. As he was responsible for writing most material, he was always listed first in ARS album credits.
July 22 - Eddie Hardin - Pianist associated with the Spencer Davis Group.
Sep 13 - Gary Richarth - Known as the lead guitarist for REO Speedwagon between 1970 and 1989.
Oct 9 - Bruce Nazarian - Guitarist and producer and member of Brownsville Station known for Smokin' in The Boys Room.
Oct 20 - Cory Wells - One of the three lead singers of Three Dog Night, he is responsible for singing on their 1970 hit record, Mama Told me Not to Come.
Nov 9 - Andy White - Played in place of Ringo Starr on the Fab Four's 1962 debut single Love me Do.
Nov 11 - Phil Taylor - Drummer for Motorhead between 1974 and 1982 and 1987 to 1992.
Dec 28 - Ian "Lemmy" Fraser - Founder, bass player, and lead singer of Motorhead.
2016
Jan 10 - David Bowie - One of the most prominent glam rockers. He is known for his string of successful albums in the 1970s and 1980s, as well as one of the first artists to coin an alter-ego, Ziggy Stardust. In 1982, he worked with Queen on their hit single Under Pressure
Jan 17 - Dale Griffin - Founding member and drummer of Mott the Hoople.
Jan 18 - Glenn Frey - Founding member of The Eagles and remembered for his solo hit single, The Heat is On.
Jan 23 - Jimmy Bain - An early member of Rainbow and long-time member of Dio. Bain also contributed to Thin Lizzy and Phil Lynott's two solo records.
Jan 28 - Paul Kantner - Founding member of notorious psychadelic band Jefferson Airplane and eventually going on to Jefferson Starship. In 1969, he was also responsible for writing Wooden Ships with David Crosby and Stephen Stills.
Mar 8 - George Martin - Long-time producer and collaborator with the Fab Four. Sometimes seen as a "Fifth Beatle."
March 10 - Keith Emerson - Member of the Nice, before forming Emerson, Lake, and Palmer - a prominent progressive rock act. Later Emrson and Lake hooked up with Cozy Powell to form ELP2.
March 30 - Andy Newman - Member of Thundercap Newman knkown for their 1969 hit, Something in The Air.
Apr 21 - Prince - Arguebly, as "rock" as it gets. Prince was known for hiw multi-racial, diverse group The Revolution made up of alumini from The Time. In 1993, he became "The Artist Formerly Known as Prince."
June 14 - Henry McCollugh - An early member of Spooky Tooth, but most remembered as being recruited by Macca for Wings. McCullough appeared on their first few records, but left before the carving of their greatest album, Band on The Run.
June 22 - Bill Ham - Long-time producer/manager for ZZ Top. Managed them until his 2006 retirement.
Sep 16 - Jerry Corbetta - Keyboardist/vocalist of Sugarloaf known for their 1970 smash hit Green-Eyed Lady and the 1975 minor hit, Don't Call us, We'll Call You.
Oct 8 - Don Ciccone - Bass player for the Four Seasons, also a member of Tommy James and the Shondells.
Nov 13 - Leon Russell - Notable jazz rocker. Frequent collaborator with Elton John and known for his 1972 hit, Tightrope.
Dec 7 - Greg Lake - Original bassist/vocalist with King Crimson before going on to join Keith Emerson and Carl Palmer in ELP.
Dec 25 - George Michael - One half of duo of Wham! as well as part of the Band Aid team. Michael has also had a successful solo career.
2017
Mar 18 - Chuck Berry - Known for his tenure in the 50s with hits like Johnny B Good and Roll Over Beethoven, the latter of which was notoriously covered. Chuck Berry is considered a father of early rock'n'roll.
Mar 22 - Sib Hashian - Original drummer for Boston noted for drumming on hits such as 1976's Smokin.'
April 11 - J Geils - Founder of the J Geils Band with hits such as Centerfold and Freeze Frame.
May 18 - Chris Cornell - Founder and singer/guitarist of grunge band Soundgarden known for hits such as Rusty Cage and Black Hole Sun.
May 27 - Gregg Allman - Founder and one of the original members of the Allman Brothers Band alongside the late Duane Allman.
Sep 3 - Walter Becker - Next to Donald Fagen, he founded Steely Dan in 1971 who had a succssful career in the 70s and into 1980.
Oct 2 - Tom Petty - Member of Mudcrutch in the early 70s and late 2000s, but most prominently of the Heartbreakers formed in 1975. He was also good friends with Fleetwood Mac's Stevie Nicks.
Oct 24 - Fats Domino - One of the earliest pioneers of rock'n'roll and a notable pianist.
Nov 18 - Malcolm Young - Founder, and rhythm guitarist of AC/DC, alongside his brother, Angus.
2018
Jan 4 - Ray Thomas - Flute/woodwind player for the Moody Blues from 1967 until early 2003.
Jan 16 - Dave Holland - Prominent member of Judas Priest, and before that, Trapeze.
Jan 20 - Jim Rodford - bass player for the Zombies and Argent, as well as in the final lineup of the Kinks.
Feb 7 - Mickey Jones - Drummer for Kenny Rogers' the FIrst Edition known for their 1968 hit WHat Condition my Condition Was In.
Feb 9 - Craig McGregor - longtime bass player for Foghat since 1976
Feb 10 - Tony Blakerly - Producer for acts such as the Scorpions, Poison, and Red Hot Chilli Peppers.
Mar 25 - Mike Harrison - primary lead singer of Spooky Tooth alongside Gary Wright.
Jun 8 - Danny Kirwan - Member of Fleetwood Mac in the early 70s, notable for his song Oh Well from Then Play On.
Aug 16 - Aretha Franklin - We can't forget rock without the "soul" part. Aretha was indeed the Queen of Soul with hits like Chain of Fools, Natural Woman, and I Say a Little Prayer among others.
Aug 22 - Ed King - Guitarist and member of Strawberry Alarm Clock remembered for their 1967 hit Incense and Peppermints and guitarist/bassist of Lynyrd Skynyrd on their debut album.
Sep 27 - Marty Bailin - One of the key members of Jefferson Airplane.
Oct 2 - Geoff Emerick - Sound engineer at Abbey Road Studios and most prominent role in the sound of the Fab Four as well as partially in Wings.
Nov 6 - Hugh McDowell - Notable cellist for ELO from their early days.
2019
Jan 5 - Eric Haydock - Origina bassist for the Hollies between 1962 and 1966.
Feb 5 - Guy Webster - Noted celebrity photographer for bands such s The Doors
Feb 21 - Peter Tork - bassist/keyboardist for The Monkees
Feb 26 - Andy Anderson - The Cure's drummer between 1983 and 1989
Mar 5 - Hal Blaine - Drummer in notorious session "band" The Wrecking Crew popular in the 60s and 70s.
June 6 - Dr. John - Notable jazz/blues musician
June 21 - Elliot Roberts - Music Executive from Asylum Records and formerly of Atlantic records.
July 8 - James Henke - Rolling Stone Magazine Journalist
Aug 1 - Ian Gibbons - Keyboard player for The Kinks betwen 1979 and 1989, as well as working with Dr. Feelgood, Randy California, and Uriah Heep's Ken Hensely
Aug 26 - Reb Foster - Manager for Steppenwolf, The Turtles, and 3 Dog Night.
Sep 13 - Eddie Money - Singer known for hits such as 1977's Two Tickets to Paradise and Baby Hold On and 1986's Take me Home Tonight.
Sep 15 - Ric Ocasek - Founder and rhythm guitarist/lead singer of The Cars. Known for his voice on songs like Good Times Roll, Shake it Up, and You Might Think.
Oct 6 - Larry Junstrom - Original bass player for Lynyrd Skynyrd and was also bass player for 38 Special.
Oct 6 - Ginger Baker - Drummer for Cream and Blind Faith, also founder of Ginger Baker's Air Force with Graham Bond.
DISCLAIMER: This list was non-inclusive. There are many more late musicians from the previous decade. Feel free to leave in the comments any memories of these musicians to you, and any others you may think of.
Here we go!
2010
Jan 4 - Tony Clarke, notorious producer most known for work with the Moody Blues.
Jan 21 - Geoff Workman producer responsible for producing hits from Foreigner, Toto, The Cars, and Journey among others
Feb 14 - Doug Fieger (pictured below) founder of The Knack in 1978, and responsible for writing My Sharona, their biggest hit in 1979, alongside lead guitarist Berton Averre
Feb 28 - Tom "T-Bone" Wolk - Session bass player mot remembered for assisting Daryl Hall and John Oates, and for being a member of the SNL House Band.
March 17 - Alex Chilton, lead singer of the Box Tops most remembered for their 1967 hit, The Letter, which at the beginning of the next decade was made famous again by Joe Cocker.
April 8 - Malcom McLaren, known for his SEX clothes shop ran with girlfriend Vivianne Westwood. The two helped contribute to the rise of many punk acts in the mid 70s, and even employed Chrissie Hynde for a time, who, by 1978, would move on to start the Pretenders.
May 16 - Ronnie James Dio, known for being the lead singer of the Richie Blackmore-fronted Rainbow. Also replaced Ozzy in Sabbath before starting his own group,Dio, in 1982. His most iconic vocals are on Man in The Silver Mounain, and Holy Diver
June 23 - Pete Quaife, original bass player for the Kinks between 1963 and 1969.
Sep 3- Mike Edwards - Remembered for being an early member of ELO playing between 1972 and early 1975. He then chose to quit, with Melvyn Gale replacing him for 1975's Face the Music.
Nov 3 - Jim Clench - Part of April Wine's early lineup. Eventually left them for BTO.
Dec 17 - Captain Beefheart - Born Don Glen Vilet, he was the leader of the Magic Band betwen 1964 and 1982. The band was mostly rooted in blues rock, but also played traces of jazz.
2011
January 4 - Gerry Rafferty - Remembered for being lead singer of Steelers Wheel who had a hit in 1972 with Stuck in The Middle with You. Outside of Steelers Wheel, Rafferty had hits with Baker Street and Right Down the Line in 1978 and 1979 respectively.
February 6 - Gary Moore - Best known for being the guitarist in the early lineup of Thin Lizzy and remembered for being a virtuoso guitarist.
May 13 - Jack Richardson - Responsible for producing many hit records by Canadians the Guess Who between 1969 and 1975.
June 18 - Clarence Clemons - Legendary saxophonist for Bruce Springsteen's E Street Band. Earlier in the year, he had contributed a saxophone solo to...wait for it...LADY GAGA'S hit The Edge of Glory.
July 11- Rob Grill - Bass player and lead singer of The Grass Roots. His voice can be identified on hits such as Midnight Confession and Let's Live for Today. Been a long time since those songs were on the radio...
September 21 - John Du Cann - Member of Atomic Rooster in the 1970s. The band arose from the ashes of The Crazy World of Arthur Brown. Carl Palmer, left the band early to join Keith Emerson and Greg Lake in Emerson Lake and Palmer.
November 26 - Keef Hartley - He formed his namesake band in 1968, and they played in Woodstock the following year.
December 25 - Jim Sherwood - Jazz musician known for being saxophonist, percussionist, and occassional vocalist for Frank Zappa and his Mothers of Invention.
2012
January 2 - Larry Reinhardt - Joined Iron Butterfly in 1970 alongside Mike Pinera of Blues Image fame. The album they made that year was credited to Iron Butterfly featuring Pinera and Reinhardt.
January 3 - Bob Weston - Member of Fleetwood Mac in the early 70s. He also worked wit hMurray Head and Fleetwood Mac aluminus Danny Kirwan.
February 29 - Davey Jones - Known for being a member of the Monkees between 1966 and 1971, their biggest success time. David Bowie actually changed his name from David Jones to avoid being mistaken for the Monkees' Davey Jones.
March 3 - Ronnie Montrose - In 1973, Montrose started his namesake group with Sammy Hagar. While the band was not really given much attention, Hagar was rememberd for his 1984 hit I Can't Drive 55, but perhaps most noteably in 1985 when he joined Van Halen taking over David Lee Roth's spot.
March 12 - Michael Hossack - In 1970, he along John Hartman, became the backbone for the Doobies' dual drummer setup. Hossack is responsible for drumming on the bands first few records (through to 1973's The Captain and Me). He was replaced by Keith Knudson for 1974's What Were Once Vices, Now Are Habbits before Hossack returned in the late 1970s.
April 5 - Jim Marshall - While not a rocker in his own right, he is remembered as the Father (or the Lord) of the Loud. He is responsible for inventing Marshall amplifiers, which were amps of choice of many popular guitarists.
April 17 - Graham Simpson - founding member of Roxy Music.
April 19 - Levon Helm - Drummer, vocalist, and founding member of The Band. He is responsible for singing on some of their notable records such as The Weight and Up on Cripple Creek.
May 13 - Donald "Duck" Dunn - Bass player of Booker T and the MGs and responsible for that driving bass on Green Onions.
June 7 - Bob Welch - Another Fleetwood Mac aluminus in their early days. He is rememberd for his breathy vocals on the Mac's 1973 hit Hypnotized, which is, in my opinion, a "sign of things to come" with Buckingham and Nicks and about one of the few songs known by fans from before 1975. Outside of FM, he is remembered for his 1977 smash solo hit, Sentimental Lady.
July 16 - Jon Lord - He's been in and out of a few bands, but is perhaps best remembered for being the founding member of Deep Purple, being first to be recruited by ex-Searchers drummer/vocalist Chris Curtis in his newfound project Roundabout. Lord was responsible for string arrangements and a notorious organist. Before Deep Purple, he even contributed that tiggling piano and sparse backing vocals to the Kinks 1964 hit, You Really Got Me. Lord retired from Purple and music in 2001, before being replaced by Don Airey of Rainbow fame and Ozzy's solo band.
August 15 - Bob Birch - Member of Elton John's band from 1999. Replaced by John Bassonette in 2013.
August 18 - Scott McKenzie - Best known for the 1967 psychadelic song San Francisco(Be Sure to Wear Flowers in Your Head).
September 5 - Joe South - Recorded the original version of Hush in 1965, before Deep Purple covered it in 1968.
November 24 - Chris Stamp - Producer for many pscyhadelic bands such as the Jimi Hendrix Experience and Arthur Brown, and founder of Track Records.
2013
Jan 19 - Steve Knight - keyboardist for the forgotten rock band Mountain who is remembered in the early 1970s for their hit Mississippi Queen.
March 6 - Alvin Lee - guitarist/vocalist for Ten Years After, whose most remembered hit is the 1971 single I'd Love to Change the World.
March 7 - Peter Banks - Alongside Chris Squire, he played in Mabel Greer's Toy Shop in 1967-1968, before the band morphed into Yes. Banks featured on their self-titled debut album of 1969 and the 1970 follow-up Time and a Word. Although Howe had not yet joined Yes, his picture can be seen on the US pressing of TIAW.
April 22 - Richie Havens - Known for his 1967 hit No Opportunity Neccessary, No Experience Needed, Havens was the opening act of the 1969 Woodstock festival. He'd developed an intense rhythm guitar-playing style.
May 20 - Ray Manzarek - Keyboard player and founder of The Doors alongside singer/songwritter Jim Morrison. Manzarek played on all eight of the band's records and is perhaps most remembered for playing keyboard bass live and sometimes even in studio. Many of you folks may not know this, but the Doors never really had an actual bass player though they did sometimes employ some on the side.
May 21 - Trevor Bolder - Bolder was bass player/producer on Bowie's rearly to mid 1970s records, but is perhaps most remembered for his time with Uriah Heep - whom he joined in 1977. He also contributed to two solo albums from Heep aluminus Ken Hensley.
July 26 - J.J. Cale - Prominent blues guitarist most remembered for his many collaborations with Leon Russell and Eric Clapton. Cale is responsible for writting some of the songs that became hits for E.C. throughout the 70s.
October 27 - Lou Reed - Without a doubt, an important figure in the 70s rock scene. Reed was guitarist/singer/songwritter for the Velvet Underground and had a prosperous solo career. His most remembered hits are Walk on The Wild Side, New York Telephone Conversation, Satelite of Love, and Conney Island Baby as well as Sweet Jane.
December 20 - David Richards - Known for producing the last few records for Queen starting with 1986's A Kind of Magic, as well some of Bowie's late 80s/90s albums such as Never Let me Down (1987) and Outside (1995).
2014
Jan 2 - Jay Traynor - Known for being one of the founders of pop rock band Jay and the Americans.
Jan 18 - Dennis Frederickson - Known as Fergie Frederickson or sometimes just Fergie (not to be confused with the female Fergie), Frederickson made one album with Toto, Isolation (1984) which went gold. He left Toto in 1985 after being unable to tour due to stage fright.
March 18 - Scott Asheton - Drummer for the Stooges.
March 18 - Joe Lala - Cofounded Blues Image with singer/guitarist Mike Pinera with their hit Ride Captain Ride. Pinera shortly left Blues Image for Iron Butterfly.
April 30 - Paul Goddard - Original bass player for the Atlanta Rhythm Section
May 11 - Ed Gagliardi - Original bass player for Foreigner. He featured on their first two records, but was asked to leave during the making of 1979's Head Games, his spot being taken over by Rick Willis of Bad Company fame.
June 15 - Casey Kasem - Known for Casey Kasem's Top 40 in the 70s and 80s and a prominent DJ in rock radio.
July 11 - Tommy Ramone - The founding member of the most influentual punk rock acts, The Ramones. Tommy's death leaves the Ramones as a band with no original members left.
July 30 - Dick Wagner - A prominent involver on Alice Cooper's records between 1972's School's Out and 1983's DaDa. Wagner was also a member of KISS and founder of his own Detroit-area band, the Frost.
August 28 - Glenn Cornick - The original bass player for Jethro Tull. Cornick featured on their first three albums before being "invited to leave." Cornick's replacement came in the form of Jeffery Hammond, Ian Anderson's childhood friend who was often credited as Jefferey Hammond-Hammond.
Oct. 4 - Paul Revere - Born Paul Revere Dick, he was the founding member of Paul Revere and the Raiders whose signature song is the 1971 hit Indian Reservation among others.
Oct 25 - Jack Bruce - Founder of British psychadelic rock band Cream alongside drummer Ginger Baker and guitarist Eric Clapton. Cream lasted until 1969.
Dec 2 - Bobby Keys - Long-time saxophonist for the Rolling Stones most noteably on their hits such as Brown Sugar, Miss You, and Waiting on a Friend.
Dec 22 - Joe Cocker - Known for his many covers especially of Beatles songs as well as the Box Tops The Letter with the Grease band. After some hibernation, Cocker rebounded in 1986 with Up Where we Belong - a duet with Jennifer Warner.
2015
Jan 10 - Tim Drummond - Notorious bass player for playing with artists like James Brown, Bob Dylan, Eric Clapton, and Neil Young among others.
Jan 18 - Dallas Taylor - He was the side drummer of Crosby Stills and Nash (and Young). Apart from him, Stephen Stills had to do a lot of the instrumental parts on their 1969 self-titled debut, which was clear that the band needed more manpower to tour. They negated this by recruiting Neil Young in the summer, as well as Motown bass player Greg Reeves.
Feb 12 - Steve Strange - Known as a member of the Moors Murderers, he became a prominent musician in the punk scene and also played with briefly with Chrissie Hynde at the advice of Anchor Records manager Dave Hill who was looking to aquire talent to record on his newfound label.
Feb 16 - Lesley Gore - Her 1963 hit, It's my Party came out on top in the US, and was covered, and even sampled or interopolated since then. Screw you Drake!
March 11 - Jimmy Greenspoon - A member of the early version of 3 Dog Night alongside guitarist Mick Alsup, drummer Floyd Sneed, and bassist Joe Schreme.
Mar 15 - Mike Porcaro - The middle of the so-called "Porcaro brothers." He debuted on Toto's fourth album in 1982 with its signature song, Africa. He had been a member until his death.
Mar 16 - Andy Fraser - Bass player and founder of Free in 1968. Free had a hit two years later with All Right Now.
Mar 20 - A.J. Pero - Pero had been the long-time drummer of Twisted Sister known for its 1984 record Stay Hungry that yielded their two biggest hits - I Wanna Rock and We're Not Gonna Take It. In 2013, Pero took on a new venture as being drummer for Adrenaline Mob.
April 3 - Bob Burns - The original drummer for Lynyrd Sknynyrd playing from 1964 to 1974. Burns left after Second Helping.
April 14 - Percy Sledge - Undoubtedly remembered for his 1966 hit When a Man Loves a Woman.
April 28 - Jack ely - SInger of the Kingsmen and responsible for their 1963 hit Louie Louie.
April 30 - Ben E. King - Member of the Drifters remembered for their hit Under the Broadwalk, but as a solo artist, he is remembered for his 1961 number 1 hit, Stand by Me. At the Bilboard Music Awards, Imagine Dragons performed an epic cover of the song.
May 5 - Greg Gruber - Original bass player of Rainbow.
May 14 - B.B. King - Legendary blues performer remembered for his 1972 hit The Thrill is Gone. In 1988, he featured on U2's When Love Comes to Town.
June 27 - Chris Sqire - Alongside Peter Banks, he formed Mabel Greer's Toy Shop in 1967. He is a founding member of Yes and the constant original until his death. Yes continue with Billy Sherwood who was side guitarist in the 90s.
July 18 - Buddy Buie - A popular writer remembered for his work with the Classics IV and the Atlanta Rhythm Section. As he was responsible for writing most material, he was always listed first in ARS album credits.
July 22 - Eddie Hardin - Pianist associated with the Spencer Davis Group.
Sep 13 - Gary Richarth - Known as the lead guitarist for REO Speedwagon between 1970 and 1989.
Oct 9 - Bruce Nazarian - Guitarist and producer and member of Brownsville Station known for Smokin' in The Boys Room.
Oct 20 - Cory Wells - One of the three lead singers of Three Dog Night, he is responsible for singing on their 1970 hit record, Mama Told me Not to Come.
Nov 9 - Andy White - Played in place of Ringo Starr on the Fab Four's 1962 debut single Love me Do.
Nov 11 - Phil Taylor - Drummer for Motorhead between 1974 and 1982 and 1987 to 1992.
Dec 28 - Ian "Lemmy" Fraser - Founder, bass player, and lead singer of Motorhead.
2016
Jan 10 - David Bowie - One of the most prominent glam rockers. He is known for his string of successful albums in the 1970s and 1980s, as well as one of the first artists to coin an alter-ego, Ziggy Stardust. In 1982, he worked with Queen on their hit single Under Pressure
Jan 17 - Dale Griffin - Founding member and drummer of Mott the Hoople.
Jan 18 - Glenn Frey - Founding member of The Eagles and remembered for his solo hit single, The Heat is On.
Jan 23 - Jimmy Bain - An early member of Rainbow and long-time member of Dio. Bain also contributed to Thin Lizzy and Phil Lynott's two solo records.
Jan 28 - Paul Kantner - Founding member of notorious psychadelic band Jefferson Airplane and eventually going on to Jefferson Starship. In 1969, he was also responsible for writing Wooden Ships with David Crosby and Stephen Stills.
Mar 8 - George Martin - Long-time producer and collaborator with the Fab Four. Sometimes seen as a "Fifth Beatle."
March 10 - Keith Emerson - Member of the Nice, before forming Emerson, Lake, and Palmer - a prominent progressive rock act. Later Emrson and Lake hooked up with Cozy Powell to form ELP2.
March 30 - Andy Newman - Member of Thundercap Newman knkown for their 1969 hit, Something in The Air.
Apr 21 - Prince - Arguebly, as "rock" as it gets. Prince was known for hiw multi-racial, diverse group The Revolution made up of alumini from The Time. In 1993, he became "The Artist Formerly Known as Prince."
June 14 - Henry McCollugh - An early member of Spooky Tooth, but most remembered as being recruited by Macca for Wings. McCullough appeared on their first few records, but left before the carving of their greatest album, Band on The Run.
June 22 - Bill Ham - Long-time producer/manager for ZZ Top. Managed them until his 2006 retirement.
Sep 16 - Jerry Corbetta - Keyboardist/vocalist of Sugarloaf known for their 1970 smash hit Green-Eyed Lady and the 1975 minor hit, Don't Call us, We'll Call You.
Oct 8 - Don Ciccone - Bass player for the Four Seasons, also a member of Tommy James and the Shondells.
Nov 13 - Leon Russell - Notable jazz rocker. Frequent collaborator with Elton John and known for his 1972 hit, Tightrope.
Dec 7 - Greg Lake - Original bassist/vocalist with King Crimson before going on to join Keith Emerson and Carl Palmer in ELP.
Dec 25 - George Michael - One half of duo of Wham! as well as part of the Band Aid team. Michael has also had a successful solo career.
2017
Mar 18 - Chuck Berry - Known for his tenure in the 50s with hits like Johnny B Good and Roll Over Beethoven, the latter of which was notoriously covered. Chuck Berry is considered a father of early rock'n'roll.
Mar 22 - Sib Hashian - Original drummer for Boston noted for drumming on hits such as 1976's Smokin.'
April 11 - J Geils - Founder of the J Geils Band with hits such as Centerfold and Freeze Frame.
May 18 - Chris Cornell - Founder and singer/guitarist of grunge band Soundgarden known for hits such as Rusty Cage and Black Hole Sun.
May 27 - Gregg Allman - Founder and one of the original members of the Allman Brothers Band alongside the late Duane Allman.
Sep 3 - Walter Becker - Next to Donald Fagen, he founded Steely Dan in 1971 who had a succssful career in the 70s and into 1980.
Oct 2 - Tom Petty - Member of Mudcrutch in the early 70s and late 2000s, but most prominently of the Heartbreakers formed in 1975. He was also good friends with Fleetwood Mac's Stevie Nicks.
Oct 24 - Fats Domino - One of the earliest pioneers of rock'n'roll and a notable pianist.
Nov 18 - Malcolm Young - Founder, and rhythm guitarist of AC/DC, alongside his brother, Angus.
2018
Jan 4 - Ray Thomas - Flute/woodwind player for the Moody Blues from 1967 until early 2003.
Jan 16 - Dave Holland - Prominent member of Judas Priest, and before that, Trapeze.
Jan 20 - Jim Rodford - bass player for the Zombies and Argent, as well as in the final lineup of the Kinks.
Feb 7 - Mickey Jones - Drummer for Kenny Rogers' the FIrst Edition known for their 1968 hit WHat Condition my Condition Was In.
Feb 9 - Craig McGregor - longtime bass player for Foghat since 1976
Feb 10 - Tony Blakerly - Producer for acts such as the Scorpions, Poison, and Red Hot Chilli Peppers.
Mar 25 - Mike Harrison - primary lead singer of Spooky Tooth alongside Gary Wright.
Jun 8 - Danny Kirwan - Member of Fleetwood Mac in the early 70s, notable for his song Oh Well from Then Play On.
Aug 16 - Aretha Franklin - We can't forget rock without the "soul" part. Aretha was indeed the Queen of Soul with hits like Chain of Fools, Natural Woman, and I Say a Little Prayer among others.
Aug 22 - Ed King - Guitarist and member of Strawberry Alarm Clock remembered for their 1967 hit Incense and Peppermints and guitarist/bassist of Lynyrd Skynyrd on their debut album.
Sep 27 - Marty Bailin - One of the key members of Jefferson Airplane.
Oct 2 - Geoff Emerick - Sound engineer at Abbey Road Studios and most prominent role in the sound of the Fab Four as well as partially in Wings.
Nov 6 - Hugh McDowell - Notable cellist for ELO from their early days.
2019
Jan 5 - Eric Haydock - Origina bassist for the Hollies between 1962 and 1966.
Feb 5 - Guy Webster - Noted celebrity photographer for bands such s The Doors
Feb 21 - Peter Tork - bassist/keyboardist for The Monkees
Feb 26 - Andy Anderson - The Cure's drummer between 1983 and 1989
Mar 5 - Hal Blaine - Drummer in notorious session "band" The Wrecking Crew popular in the 60s and 70s.
June 6 - Dr. John - Notable jazz/blues musician
June 21 - Elliot Roberts - Music Executive from Asylum Records and formerly of Atlantic records.
July 8 - James Henke - Rolling Stone Magazine Journalist
Aug 1 - Ian Gibbons - Keyboard player for The Kinks betwen 1979 and 1989, as well as working with Dr. Feelgood, Randy California, and Uriah Heep's Ken Hensely
Aug 26 - Reb Foster - Manager for Steppenwolf, The Turtles, and 3 Dog Night.
Sep 13 - Eddie Money - Singer known for hits such as 1977's Two Tickets to Paradise and Baby Hold On and 1986's Take me Home Tonight.
Sep 15 - Ric Ocasek - Founder and rhythm guitarist/lead singer of The Cars. Known for his voice on songs like Good Times Roll, Shake it Up, and You Might Think.
Oct 6 - Larry Junstrom - Original bass player for Lynyrd Skynyrd and was also bass player for 38 Special.
Oct 6 - Ginger Baker - Drummer for Cream and Blind Faith, also founder of Ginger Baker's Air Force with Graham Bond.
DISCLAIMER: This list was non-inclusive. There are many more late musicians from the previous decade. Feel free to leave in the comments any memories of these musicians to you, and any others you may think of.
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