Friday, March 17, 2023

U2: Top 100 Songs

U2

Top 100 Songs

At 16 years old, an Irish singer and guitarist named Paul Hewson (better known as Bono) hooked up with guitarist Dave Evans (aka “The Edge”), bassist Adam Clayton, and drummer Larry Mullen, Jr. The four met at Mount Temple Comprehensive School and were signed to Island Records within four years, first hitting the scene with 1980’s Boy. Over the next seven years, they built a strong college-rock base and then with 1987’s The Joshua Tree became the world’s biggest rock band. The band has remained a stable force nearly four decades, thanks to their stick-together-as-a-group attitude. They’ve stretched their sound and been celebrated for nearly every direction they’ve gone.

For a complete list of this act’s DMDB honors, check out the DMDB Music Maker Encyclopedia entry.

Click here to see other acts’ best-of lists.

image from gigslutz.co.uk

Spotify Podcast:

Check out the Dave’s Music Database podcast U2: Songs of Surrender based on this list. Debut: March 21, 2023, at 7pm CST. New episodes based on Dave’s Music Database lists are posted every Tuesday at 7pm CST.

Awards:

Top 100 Songs

Dave’s Music Database lists are determined by song’s appearances on best-of lists, appearances on compilations and live albums by the featured act, and songs’ chart success, sales, radio airplay, streaming, and awards.

DMDB Top 1%:

1. With or Without You (1987)
2. One (1991)
3. I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For (1987)
4. Beautiful Day (2000)
5. Pride (In the Name of Love) (1984)
6. Sunday Bloody Sunday (1983)
7. Where the Streets Have No Name (1987)

DMDB Top 2%:

8. New Year’s Day (1983)
9. Vertigo (2004)

DMDB Top 5%:

10. Mysterious Ways (1991)
11. Desire (1988)
12. I Will Follow (1980)
13. Sometimes You Can’t Make It on Your Own (2004)
14. Bad (1984)
15. Night and Day (1990)
16. Stuck in a Moment You Can’t Get Out Of (2000)
17. Walk On (2000)
18. Angel of Harlem (1988)
19. Hold Me, Thrill Me, Kiss Me, Kill Me (1995)
20. Sweetest Thing (1987)

21. Even Better Than the Real Thing (1991)
22. Staring at the Sun (1997)
23. Electrical Storm (2002)

DMDB Top 10%:

24. You’re the Best Thing About Me (2017)
25. Stand by Me (live with Bruce Springsteen, 1987)
26. Discotheque (1997)
27. The Saints Are Coming (with Green Day, 2006)
28. All I Want Is You (1988)
29. When Love Comes to Town (with B.B. King, 1988)
30. The Fly (1991)

31. Window in the Skies (2006)
32. Who’s Gonna Ride Your Wild Horses? (1991)
33. Theme from Mission: Impossible (Adam Clayton & Larry Mullen, Jr., 1996)
34. Get on Your Boots (2009)
35. Gloria (1981)
36. Stay (Faraway, So Close!) (1993)
37. Two Hearts Beat As One (1983)
38. Elevation (2000)
39. Numb (1993)
40. The Unforgettable Fire (1984)

41. City of Blinding Lights (2004)
42. God Part II (1988)
43. All Because of You (2004)

DMDB Top 20%:

44. In God’s Country (1987)
45. Ordinary Love (2013)
46. Bullet the Blue Sky (1987)
47. Last Night on Earth (1997)
48. Magnificent (2009)
49. Everlasting Love (1989)
50. Invisible (2014)

51. Moment of Surender (2009)
52. Every Breaking Wave (2014)
53. Lemon (1993)
54. Miss Sarajevo (1995)
55. Until the End of the World (1991)
56. A Sort of Homecoming (1984)
57. Unchained Melody (1989)
58. One Tree Hill (1987)
59. Song for Someone (2014)
60. The Miracle (Of Joey Ramone) (2014)

61. I’ll Go Crazy if I Don’t Go Crazy Tonight (2009)
62. Christmas (Baby Please Come Home) (1987)

Beyond the DMDB Top 20%:

63. 11 O’Clock Tick Tock (1980)
64. Spanish Eyes (1987)
65. Jesus Christ (1988)
66. Get Out of Your Own Way (2017)
67. The Ground Beneath Her Feet (2000)
68. Original of the Species (2004)
69. If God Will Send His Angels (1997)
70. Silver and Gold (1985)

71. October (1981)
72. All Along the Watchtower (live, 1987)
73. “40” (1983)
74. Fire (1981)
75. Trash, Trampoline, and the Party Girl (1982)
76. The Hands That Built America (2002)
77. Running to Stand Still (1987)
78. Out of Control (1979)
79. Dancing Barefoot (1989)
80. A Celebration (1982)

81. Please (1997)
82. Satellite of Love (1992)
83. Love Is Bigger Than Anything in Its Way (2017)
84. Surrender (1983)
85. Zooropa (1993)
86. Paint It Black (1992)
87. Stranded (Haiti Mon Amour) (Bono & the Edge with Jay-Z & Rihanna, 2010)
88. MLK (1984)
89. Three Sunrises (1985)
90. Red Hill Mining Town (1987)

91. Fortunate Son (1992)
92. Wire (1984)
93. Hallelujah Here She Comes (1988)
94. The Electric Co. (1980)
95. Your Song Saved My Life (2021)
96. Walk to the Water (1987)
97. A Room at the Heartbreak Hotel (1988)
98. Love Resuce Me (with U2, 1988)
99. Zoo Station (1991)
100. The First Time (1993)

Resources and Related Links:

First posted 9/6/2017; updated 3/22/2023.

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Tuesday, March 14, 2023

Sports Anthems: Top 50 Songs

Sports Anthems:

Top 50 Songs

This list is the result of aggregating 27 lists of the most popular sports anthems. These may be songs that are designed to get the crowd riled up or singing along. They may be the introductory song as a team, or even a specific player, takes the field. In any case, these are the songs most likely to come blaring out of your favorite stadium’s speakers.

Click here to see other genre-specific song lists.

1. Queen “We Will Rock You” (1977)
2. The White Stripes “Seven Nation Army” (2003)
3. AC/DC “Thunderstruck” (1990)
4. Blur “Song 2” (1997)
5. Guns N’ Roses “Welcome to the Jungle” (1987)
6. House of Pain “Jump Around” (1992)
7. Eminem “Lose Yourself” (2002)
8. Metallica “Enter Sandman” (1991)
9. Ozzy Osbourne “Crazy Train” (1980)
10. Survivor “Eye of the Tiger” (1982)

11. Neil Diamond “Sweet Caroline” (1969)
12. Queen “We Are the Champions” (1977)
13. Gary Glitter “Rock and Roll Part 2” (1972)
14. Steam “Na Na Hey Hey Kiss Him Goodbye” (1969)
15. Tag Team “Whoomp! There It Is” (1993)
16. Europe “The Final Countdown” (1986)
17. Journey “Don’t Stop Believin’” (1981)
18. Darude “Sandstorm” (2000)
19. 2 Unlimited “Get Ready for This” (1991)
20. The Alan Parsons Project “Sirius” / “Eye in the Sky” (1982)

21. The Rolling Stones “Start Me Up” (1981)
22. Ramones “Blitzkrieg Bop” (1976)
23. Zombie Nation “Kernkraft 400” (1999)
24. Jack Norworth and Albert von Tilzer (composers) “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” (1908)
25. DJ Khaled with T-Pain, Ludacris, Snoop Dogg, & Rick Ross “All I Do Is Win” (2010)
26. Village People “Y.M.C.A.” (1978)
27. C + C Music Factory “Gonna Make You Sweat (Everybody Dance Now)” (1990)
28. Smash Mouth “All Star” (1999)
29. Baha Men “Who Let the Dogs Out?” (2000)
30. Van Halen “Jump” (1983)

31. Black Eyed Peas “Let’s Get It Started” (2004)
32. Gerry & the Pacemakers “You’ll Never Walk Alone” (1963)
33. Bill Conti “Gonna Fly Now” (1976)
34. Chumbawamba “Tubthumping” (1997)
35. Fort Minor “Remember the Name” (2005)
36. Technotronic “Pump Up the Jam” (1989)
37. Fatboy Slim “Right Here Right Now” (1999)
38. DJ Snake with Lil Jon “Turn Down for What” (2013)
39. Beastie Boys “Sabotage” (1994)
40. Macklemore & Ryan Lewis with Ray Dalton “Can’t Hold Us” (2011)

41. Kanye West with Daft Punk “Stronger” (2007)
42. Queen “Another One Bites the Dust” (1980)
43. Frank Sinatra “Theme from New York, New York” (1980)
44. Phil Collins “In the Air Tonight” (1981)
45. Kendrick Lamar “Humble” (2017)
46. The Isley Brothers “Shout” (1959)
47. Todd Rundgren “Bang the Drum All Day” (1983)
48. Styx “Renegade” (1978)
49. Twisted Sister “We’re Not Gonna Take It” (1984)
50. Bon Jovi “Livin’ on a Prayer” (1986)

Resources/Related Links:

First posted 3/14/2023.

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The Bangles/Susanna Hoffs: Top 50 Songs

The Bangles/
Susanna Hoffs

Top 50 Songs

The all-girl group originally known as the Bangs formed in Los Angeles, California, in 1981. The lineup consisted of sisters Vicki (guitar) and Debbie Peterson (drums) with Susanna Hoffs (guitar) and Annette Zilinskas (bass). All four handled vocals. After the release of a 1982 EP entitled The Real World, Annette was replaced by Michael Steele, from the all-female band the Runaways.

The group released three albums in the ‘80s before going on hiatus. They reconvened for albums in 2003 and 2011. Susanna Hoffs launched a solo career in 1991. She has released five solo albums and three collaborative albums of cover songs with Matthew Sweet.

Check out the DMDB Music Maker Encyclopedia entries for the Bangles and Susanna Hoffs for more information.

Click here to see other acts’ best-of lists.

Awards:

Top 50 Songs

Dave’s Music Database lists are determined by song’s appearances on best-of lists, appearances on compilations and live albums by the featured act, and songs’ chart success, sales, radio airplay, streaming, and awards.

DMDB Top 1%:

1. Walk Like an Egyptian (1986)

DMDB Top 2%:

2. Eternal Flame (1988)

DMDB Top 5%:

3. Manic Monday (1986)

DMDB Top 10%:

4. Hazy Shade of Winter (1987)
5. In Your Room (1988)
6. Hero Takes a Fall (1984)
7. If She Knew What She Wants (1986)

DMDB Top 20%:

8. Walking Down Your Street (1988)
9. Be With You (1988)
10. Following (1986)
11. My Side of the Bed (Hoffs, 1991)
12. Going Down to Liverpool (1984)

Beyond the DMDB Top 20%:

13. All I Want (Hoffs, 1996)
14. Something That You Said (2003)
15. Something to Believe In (1988)
16. I’ll Set You Free (1988)
17. More Than Meets the Eye (1984)
18. Return Post (1986)
19. Live (1984)
20. Angels Don’t Fall in Love (1986)

21. In a Different Light (1986)
22. James (1984)
23. Restless (1984)
24. Song for a Good Son (2003)
25. All About You (1984)
26. Where Were You When I Needed You? (1984)
27. Make a Play for Her Now (1988)
28. September Gurls (1986)
29. To Sir with Love (Hoffs, 1996)
30. Glitter Years (1988)

31. Tear Off Your Own Head (It’s a Doll Revolution) (2003)
32. Trouble (Hoffs/Sweet, 2013)
33. We Belong (2009)
34. Willin’ (Hoffs/Sweet, 2009)
35. You Can Close Your Eyes (Hoffs/Sweet, 2015)
36. Sunday Morning (Hoffs/Sweet, 2006)
37. Stuck in the Middle with You (Hoffs, 1996)
38. He’s Got a Secret (1984)
39. I Will Take Care of You (2003)
40. Good Day Sunshine (2006)

41. Cinnamon Girl (Hoffs/Sweet, 2006)
42. You’re So Vain (Hoffs/Sweet, 2009)
43. Free Fallin’ (Hoffs/Sweet, 2013)
44. What’s So Funny ‘Bout Peace, Love, and Understanding (Hoffs/Sweet, 2015)
45. I Got Nothing (1985)
46. Raining (Hoffs, 2012)
47. Beekeeper’s Blues (Hoffs, 1996)
48. Only Love (Hoffs, 1991)
49. Boys Keep Swinging (Hoffs, 1991)
50. Bell Jar (1988)

Resources and Related Links:

First posted 3/14/2023.

 
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Wednesday, March 8, 2023

Lynyrd Skynyrd: Top 30 Songs

Lynryd Skynyrd

Top 30 Songs

Southern-rock group formed in Jacksonville, Florida in 1964. They named themselves after founding members’ junior high school gym teacher, Leonard Skinner. Group disbanded in 1977 after Ronnie Van Zant, Steve Gaines, and Cassie Gaines were killed in a plane crash. Rossington, Collins Powell and Wilkeson formed the Rossington Collins Band in 1979, which lasted until 1982. Ronnie’s younger brother, Johnny, revived Lynyrd Skynyrd in 1987.

Members:

Highlighted names indicate which members of the band were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2006.
  • Ronnie Van Zant (vocals: 1964-77). Died 1977.
  • Gary Rossington (guitar: 1964-77,1987-2023). Died 2023.
  • Allen Collins (guitar: 1964-77). Died 1990.
  • Bob Burns (drums: 1964-71, 1972-74). Died 2015.
  • Larry Junstrom (bass: 1964-71). Died 2019.
  • Billy Powell (keyboards: 1972-77, 1987-2009). Died 2009.
  • Rickey Medlocke (drums, vocals, mandolin: 1971-72), (guitar vocals, mandolin: 1996-present)
  • Greg T. Walker (bass: 1971-72)
  • Leon Wilkeson (bass: 1972-77, 1987-2001). Died 2001.
  • Ed King (bass: 1972-75, 1987-96). Died 2018.
  • Artimus Pyle (drum: 1975-77, 1987-91)
  • Steve Gaines (guitar: 1976-77). Died 1977.
  • Cassie Gaines (backing vox). Died 1977.
  • Johnny Van Zant (vocals: 1987-present)
  • Randall Hall (guitar: 1987-93)
  • Kurt Custer (drums: 1991-94)
  • Mike Estes (guitar: 1993-96)
  • Owen Hale (drums: 1994-98)
  • Hughie Thomasson (guitar: 1996-2005). Died 2007.
  • Jeff McAllister (drums: 1998-99)
  • Kenny Aronoff (drums: 1999)
  • Michael Cartellone (drums: 1999-present)
  • Ean Evans (bass: 2001-09). Died 2009.
  • Mark Matejka (guitar, backing vocals: 2006-present)
  • Peter Keys (keyboards: 2009-present)
  • Robert Kearns (bass: 2009-12)
  • Johnny Colt (bass: 2012-17)
  • Keith Christopher (bass: 2017-present)

For a complete list of this act’s DMDB honors, check out the DMDB Music Maker Encyclopedia entry.

Click here to see other acts’ best-of lists.

Spotify Podcast:

Check out the Dave’s Music Database podcast episode Lynyrd Skynyrd’s 10 Best Songs based on this list. Premiere: March 7, 2023 at 7pm CST. New episodes based on Dave’s Music Database lists are posted every Tuesday at 7pm CST.

Awards:

Top 30 Songs

Dave’s Music Database lists are determined by song’s appearances on best-of lists, appearances on compilations and live albums by the featured act, and songs’ chart success, sales, radio airplay, streaming, and awards.

DMDB Top 1%:

1. Sweet Home Alabama (1974)
2. Free Bird (1973)

DMDB Top 5%:

3. What’s Your Name (1977)

DMDB Top 10%:

4. Simple Man (1973)
5. Saturday Night Special (1975)
6. Gimme Three Steps (1973)
7. Call Me the Breeze (1974)

DMDB Top 20%:

8. You Got That Right (1977)
9. Tuesday’s Gone (1973)
10. That Smell (1977)
11. Don’t Ask Me No Questions (1974)
12. Red, White and Blue (2003)
13. Gimme Back My Bullets (1976)
14. Swamp Music (1974)

Beyond the DMDB Top 20%:

15. Brickyard Road (Johnny Van Zant, 1990)
16. Double Trouble (1976)
17. The Ballad of Curtis Loew (1974)
18. Workin’ for MCA (1974)
19. Truck Drivin’ Man (1973)
20. I Ain’t the One (1973)

21. I Know a Little (1977)
22. Workin’ (1999)
23. Smokestack Lightnin’ (1991)
24. Heartbreak Hotel (1994)
25. Travelin’ Man (live, 1976)
26. Who’s Right or Wrong (Johnny Van Zant Band, 1981)
27. Help Somebody (Van Zant, 2005)
28. Preacher Man (1999)
29. Good Lovin’s Hard to Find (1993)
30. Keeping the Faith (1991)

Resources and Related Links:

First posted 3/7/2023; last updated 3/8/2023.

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Sunday, March 5, 2023

The Top 100 Singers of All Time

Singers:

Top 100

This list has been updated several times, most recently in 2023 after the Rolling Stone list of the top 200 singers of all time. More than 70 lists – some of which focus on singers and some of which focus on greatest frontmen and women – have been aggregated to create this list.

Lists which purport to be “the best of all time” are usually flawed in several ways. First of all, they tend to focus on the rock era, oblivious that there was music before the 1950s. Second, they not only lean on that era, but tend to favor rock and roll artists. Third, those artists are overwhelmingly from English-speaking countries, namely the United States and the United Kingdom. While the third circumstance is still overwhelmingly obvious on this list, I have done my best to pull lists to represent different genres and eras as much as possible. It still isn’t perfect, but it does offer more diversity and representation than you’ll typically find on a best-of list.

See other lists of Acts/Music Makers by Categories.

Queen’s Freddie Mercury, image from immediate.co.uk

1. Freddie Mercury
2. Frank Sinatra
3. Aretha Franklin
4. Elvis Presley
5. Robert Plant
6. Janis Joplin
7. Stevie Wonder
8. Michael Jackson
9. Whitney Houston
10. Ella Fitzgerald

Even though the sources behind this list heavily favor white male singers who front rock bands, the list makers still showed “Respect” to Aretha Franklin, the Queen of Soul. Image from rollingstone.com.

11. Marvin Gaye
12. David Bowie
13. Ray Charles
14. Mariah Carey
15. John Lennon
16. Paul McCartney
17. Mick Jagger
18. Prince
19. Jim Morrison
20. Billie Holiday

Many of the names on this list wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for “The King of Rock and Roll.” Image from fanpop.com.

21. Sam Cooke
22. Bono
23. James Brown
24. Axl Rose
25. Elton John
26. Otis Redding
27. Céline Dion
28. Tina Turner
29. Nat “King” Cole
30. Kurt Cobain

Divas like Mariah Carey, Whitney Houston, and Christina Aguilera show they deserve a place on this rock-heavy list.

31. Roy Orbison
32. Bob Dylan
33. Louis Armstrong
34. Roger Daltrey
35. Stevie Nicks
36. Johnny Cash
37. Karen Carpenter
38. Nina Simone
39. Bruce Springsteen
40. Smokey Robinson

Even a rock-heavy list can’t hold back jazz singer icons like Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, and Etta James. Image from music-wallpapers.net.

41. Patsy Cline
42. Steven Tyler
43. Al Green
44. Etta James
45. Little Richard
46. Christina Aguilera
47. Steve Perry
48. Barbra Streisand
49. Luther Vandross
50. Dolly Parton

R&B legends like James Brown, Ray Charles, Marvin Gaye, Otis Redding, and Sam Cooke make the list. Image from johannasvisions.com.

51. Bing Crosby
52. Beyoncé
53. Björk
54. Joni Mitchell
55. Chris Cornell
56. Thom Yorke
57. Iggy Pop
58. Tony Bennett
59. Van Morrison
60. Dusty Springfield

Pre-rock era crooners like Frank Sinatra, Bing Crosby, Tony Bennett, and Nat “King” Cole couldn’t be denied. Image from queens-politics.com.

61. Jeff Buckley
62. Bob Marley
63. Morrissey
64. Gladys Knight
65. Dean Martin
66. Adele
67. Amy Winehouse
68. Madonna
69. Eddie Vedder
70. Ozzy Osbourne

Country stars like Johnny Cash, Dolly PartonGeorge Jones, Patsy Cline, and Hank Williams made the cut even without rock and roll credentials. Image from abcnewsradioonline.com.

71. Neil Young
72. Maria Callas
73. Jimi Hendrix
74. Ann Wilson
75. George Michael
76. Rod Stewart
77. Perry Como
78. Luciano Pavarotti
79. Jon Bon Jovi
80. Bon Scott

Despite the shortcomings of lists such as these, don’t let that take away from rock gods like Robert Plant, Jim Morrison, and Mick Jagger who absolutely belong on this list. Image from thehelplessdancer.wordpress.com.

81. Debbie Harry
82. Michael Stipe
83. Mel Tormé 84. Bruce Dickinson
85. George Jones
86. Hank Williams
87. Edith Piaf
88. Judy Garland
89. Ronnie James Dio
90. Diana Ross

World music gets almost no love from the list makers, but at least Jamaican reggae star Bob Marley and French singer Edith Piaf make the list. Image from aarkangel.wordpress.com.

91. Tom Jones
92. Jackie Wilson
93. Joe Strummer
94. Patti Smith
95. Mary J. Blige
96. Lou Reed
97. Matt Bellamy
98. Bobby Darin
99. Johnny Mathis
100. Curtis Mayfield

Resources/Related Links:

First posted 7/17/2012; last updated 3/5/2023.

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Thursday, March 2, 2023

March: Music Makers' Birthdays

Click on any date below to see music makers’ birthdays on that day. Click here to return to the main music makers’ birthday page. Note: Names listed in bold have had dates verified with at least two sources to (hopefully) ensure accuracy. Please email Dave’s Music Database with any corrections.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7
8 9 10 11 12 13 14
15 16 17 18 19 20 21
22 23 24 25 26 27 28
29 30 31 -- -- -- --

MARCH 1

  • Justin Bieber (1994). Pop singer (“What Do You Mean?,” “Sorry,” “Love Yourself,” “Peaches”) born in London, Ontario, Canada.

  • Ke$ha (1987). Pop singer (“Right Round,” “Tik Tok”) born Kesha Rose Sebert in Los Angeles, CA.

  • Nik Kershaw (1958). New-wave singer/songwriter (“Wouldn’t It Be Good”) born in Ipswich, Suffolk, England.

  • Dave Marsh (1950). Music critic and early editor of Creem magazine born in Pontiac, MI.

  • Roger Daltrey (1944). Rock singer born in East Acton, London, England. With The Who. Kennedy Center Honoree. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

  • Mike D’Abo (1944). English rock singer with Manfred Mann.

  • Jerry Fisher (1943). Texas rock singer with Blood, Sweat & Tears.

  • Harry Belafonte (1927). Singer (“Banana Boat (Day O),” 1956’s Calypso), actor, and social activitist born in Harlem, NY. Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. Kennedy Center Honoree. Medal of Arts. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

  • Glenn Miller (1904). Jazz bandleader (“In the Mood”) born Alton Glenn Miller in Clarinda, IA. Died 12/15/1944. Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.

  • Frédéric Chopin (1810). Classical pianist/composer in Romantic style born Fryderyk Franciszek Chopin in the Duchy of Warsaw, Poland. Died 10/17/1849.

    MARCH 2

  • Luke Pritchard (1985). Rock singer with the Kooks.

  • Chris Martin (1977). Rock singer born in Exeter, England. With Coldplay (“Clocks,” “Viva la Vida,” A Rush of Blood to the Head).

  • Jon Bon Jovi (1962). Rock singer born John Francis Bongiovi Jr. in Perth Amboy, NJ. With Bon Jovi (“Livin’ on a Prayer,” “You Give Love a Bad Name”). Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

  • Mark Evans (1956). Australian rock bassist with AC/DC from 1974-77.

  • Dale Bozzio (1955). New wave singer with Missing Persons.

  • Jay Osmond (1955). Utah singer with family group The Osmonds.

  • Karen Carpenter (1950). Singer and drummer born in New Haven, CT. Formed the duo The Carpenters (“They Long to Be Close to You,” “We’ve Only Just Begun”) with her brother. Died 2/4/1983.

  • Rory Gallagher (1948). Irish guitarist (“Tattooed Lady”). Died 6/14/1995.

  • Lou Reed (1942). Experimental-rock singer/songwriter and musician born Lewis Allan Reed in New York City, NY. With the Velvet Underground (The Velvet Underground & Nico) and a solo artist (“Walk on the Wild Side,” 1972’s Transformer, 1973’s Berlin). Died 10/27/2013. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (2x).

  • Kurt Weill (1900). German composer (The Threepenny Opera, which included Mack the Knife). Died 4/3/1950.

    MARCH 3

  • Camila Cabello (1997). Pop singer/songwriter born Karla Camila Cabello Estrabao in Havana, Cuba. With group Fifth Harmony and a solo artist (“Havana,” “Señorita”).

  • Ronan Keating (1977). Singer born in Dublin, Ireland. With Boyzone and a solo artist.

  • Tone Lōc (1966). Rapper (“Wild Thing,” “Funky Cold Medina”) born Anthony Terrell Smith in Los Angeles, CA.

  • Robyn Hitchcock (1953). Alternative-rock singer/songwriter and guitarist born in Paddington, London, England. With the Soft Boys and a solo artist.

  • Jennifer Warnes (1947). Singer/songwriter (“Right Time of the Night,” “Up Where We Belong,” “I’ve Had the Time of My Life”) born in Seattle, WA.

  • Doc Watson (1923). Bluegrass singer and guitarist (“Black Mountain Rag”) born Arthel Lane Watson in Deep Gap, NC. Died 5/29/2012. Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.

    MARCH 4

  • Fergal Lawlor (1971). Irish drummer with the Cranberries (“Linger,” “Zombie”).

  • Patsy Kensit (1968). English actress and musician in Eighth Wonder.

  • Jason Newsted (1963). Rock bassist with Metallica.

  • Boon Gould (1955). English musician with Level 42 (“Something About You”).

  • Emilio Estefan, Jr. (1953). Producer and husband of singer Gloria Estefan, with whom he worked in Miami Sound Machine. Born in Santiago, Cuba. Gershwin Prize .

  • Chris Rea (1951). English rock musician (“Fool (If You Think It’s Over)”).

  • Chris Squire (1948). Rock bassist and co-founder of Yes (1971’s Fragile). Died 6/27/2015.

  • Shakin’ Stevens (1948). Welsh singer/songwriter “(This Ole House”). Born Michael Barratt.

  • Bobby Womack (1944). Ohio R&B singer/songwriter (“It’s All Over Now”) and musician.

  • Miriam Makeba (1932). South African singer.

  • Antonio Vivaldi (1678). Austrian composer (The Four Seasons). Died 7/28/1741.

    MARCH 5

  • John Frusciante (1970). Alternative-rock guitarist with the Red Hot Chili Peppers (1991’s Blood Sugar Sex Magik).

  • Charlie Reid (1962). Scottish singer and guitarist with the Proclaimers (“I’m Gonna Be 500 Miles”). Twin brother of Craig Reid.
  • Craig Reid (1962). Scottish singer with the Proclaimers (“I’m Gonna Be 500 Miles”). Twin brother of Charlie Reid.
  • David Tibet (1960). Malaysian musician who founded Current 93.

  • Andy Gibb (1958). English pop singer (“I Just Want to Be Your Everything,” “Shadow Dancing”). Died 3/10/1988.

  • Mark E. Smith (1957). Rock singer/songwriter with The Fall (This Nation’s Saving Grace). Died 1/24/2018.

  • Teena Marie (1956). American R&B singer/songwriter (“Lovergirl”). Died 12/26/2010.

  • Alan Clark (1952). Rock keyboardist born in County Durham, England. With Dire Straits (1985’s Brothers in Arms). Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

  • Eddy Grant (1948). Guyana reggae singer (“Electric Avenue”).

  • Murray Head (1946). English singer (“One Night in Bangkok”).

  • Ben Selvin (1898). American bandleader (“Forever Blowing Bubbles,” “Dardanella,” “Chicago (That Toddlin’ Town),” “Manhattan,” “Blue Skies,” “Happy Days Are Here Again”). Died 7/15/1980.

  • Heitor Villa-Lobos (1887). Brazilian composer. Died 11/17/1959.

    MARCH 6

  • Bubba Sparxxx (1977). American rapper (“Deliverance,” “Ugly,” “Ms. New Booty”).

  • Beanie Sigel (1974). American rapper.

  • Kiki Dee (1947). English singer (“Don’t Go Breaking My Heart” with Elton John). Born Pauline Matthews.

  • David Gilmour (1946). English rock singer and guitarist with Pink Floyd (1973’s Dark Side of the Moon).

  • Hugh Grundy (1945). English rock drummer with the Zombies (“She’s Not There,” “Tell Her No,” “Time of the Season”).

  • Kiri Te Kanawa (1944). New Zealand soprano.

  • Mary Wilson (1944). R&B/pop singer with The Supremes (“Where Did Our Love Go,” “Baby Love,” “Stop! In the Name of Love”).

  • Lorin Maazel (1930). French music director of the New York Philharmonic.

  • Sarah Caldwell (1924). Opera conductor born in Maryville, MO. Died 3/23/2006. Medal of Arts.

  • Wes Montgomery (1923). American jazz guitarist. Died 6/15/1968.

  • Bob Wills (1905). Country songwriter and bandleader (“New San Antonio Rose”) born James Robert Wills in Limestone County, TX. Called “The King of Western Swing.” Died 5/13/1975.

    MARCH 7

  • Paul Cattermole (1977). Member of the British pop group S Club 7.

  • Randy Guss (1967). American drummer with Toad The Wet Sprocket (“All I Want,” “Walk on the Ocean”).

  • Denyce Graves (1964). American opera singer.

  • Taylor Dayne (1962). American pop singer (“Tell It to My Heart,” “I’ll Always Love You”).

  • Jules Shear (1952). American singer/songwriter and guitarist. Wrote Cyndi Lauper’s “All Through the Night” and the Bangles’ “If She Knew What She Wants.”

  • Matthew Fisher (1946). English rock keyboardist with Procol Harum.

  • Peter Wolf (1946). Rock singer with J. Geils Band (“Centerfold”). Born Peter W. Blankfield.

  • Arthur Lee (1945). American rock singer/songwriter and musician with Love (1967’s Forever Changes).

  • Chris White (1943). English basist with the Zombies (“She’s Not There,” “Tell Her No,” “Time of the Season”).

  • Danyel Gérard (1939). French pop singer/songwriter (“Butterfly”). Born Gérard Daniel Kherlakian.

  • Maurice Ravel (1875). French composer (“Bolero”). Died 12/28/1937.

    MARCH 8

  • Bob, Clint, and Dave Moffatt (1984). Triplets in Canadian pop group the Moffatts.

  • Kameelah Williams (702) (1978)

  • Shawn Mullins (1968)

  • Peter Gill (1964) Musician with Frankie Goes To Hollywood.

  • Gary Numan (1958). English singer with Tubeway Army. Also a solo artist (“Cars”).

  • Mel Galley (1948) Musician with Whitesnake.

  • Carole Bayer Sager (1947). American songwriter (Dionne & Friends’ “That’s What Friends Are For”).

  • Michael Allsup (1947). Rock musician with Three Dog Knight.

  • Randy Meisner (1946). Nebraska country-rock bassist and singer with Poco and the Eagles (Hotel California).

  • Mickey Dolenz (1945). American singer, drummer, and actor with pop-rock group the Monkees (“I’m a Believer”).

  • Ralph Ellis (1942). English guitarist and singer with The Swinging Blue Jeans.

  • Christian Wolff (1934). American composer of experimental classical music.

  • Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach (1714). German classical composer and pianist. Died 12/14/1788.

    MARCH 9

  • Bow Wow (1987). Rapper.

  • Chingy (1980). American rapper (“Right Thurr”).

  • Robert Sledge (Ben Folds Five) (1968)

  • Martin Fry (1958). English singer with ABC (“The Look of Love,” “Be Near Me,” “When Smokey Sings”).

  • Jeffrey Osborne (1948). American R&B singer/songwriter and musician.

  • Robin Trower (1945). English rock guitarist with Procol Harum.

  • John Cale (1942). Welsh experimental-rock singer/songwriter and multi-instrumentalist born in Garnant, Carmarthenshire, Wales. Founding member of the Velvet Underground (The Velvet Underground & Nico) and later a solo artist (Paris 1919). Also a producer (The Stooges’ 1969 album The Stooges, Patti Smith’s Horses, The Modern Lovers’ (1976’s (The Modern Lovers). Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

  • Mark Lindsay (1942). American singer with Paul Revere & Raiders.

  • Mickey Gilley (1936). Country singer.

  • Lloyd Price (1933). Louisiana R&B singer (“Lawdy Miss Clawdy,” “Stagger Lee,” “Personality”).

  • Keely Smith (1932). Jazz singer known as the “Queen of Swing.” Wife of musician Louis Prima.

  • Ornette Coleman (1930). Jazz saxophonist, violinist, trumpeter, and composer born Randolph Denard Ornette Coleman in Fort Worth, TX. Died 6/11/2015. Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award..

  • Samuel Barber (1910). Classical composer (“Adagio for Strings”). Died 1981.

    MARCH 10

  • Carrie Underwood (1983). American country singer (“Before He Cheats,” “Jesus, Take the Wheel,” 2005’s Some Hearts); winner of TV’s American Idol in 2005.

  • Robin Thicke (1977). Singer (Blurred Lines) born in Los Angeles, California.

  • Timbaland (1971). Music producer born Timothy Zachery Mosley.

  • Haifa Wehbe (1970). Singer.

  • Edie Brickell (1966)

  • Neneh Cherry (1964). Female Swedish rap singer (“Buffalo Stance”). Born Neneh Mariann Karlsson.

  • Jeff Ament (1963). Grunge-rock bassist born in Havre, Montana. With Green River (1984-88), Mother Love Bone (1988-90), Temple of the Dog (1990) and Pearl Jam (1991-) (“Jeremy,” 1991’s Ten). Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

  • Rick Rubin (1963). American record producer (Run-D.M.C.’s 1986 Raising Hell, Beastie Boys’ 1986 Licensed to Ill, Public Enemy’s 1988 It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back, Red Hot Chili Peppers’ 1991 Blood Sugar Sex Magik, Johnny Cash’s 1994 American Recordings).

  • Tina Charles (1955). English singer with 5000 Volts (“I’m on Fire”). Also a solo artist (“I Love to Love”). Born Tina Hoskins.

  • Tom Scholz (1947). American rock guitarist/songwriter for Boston (“More Than a Feeling,” 1976’s Boston, 1978’s Don’t Look Back).

  • Dean Torrence (1941). Singer from Jan & Dean.

  • Jethro (1923). American musician in duo Homer & Jethro. Born Kenneth C. Burns. Died 4/2/1989.

  • Leon Bismark “Bix” Beiderbecke (1903). American jazz cornetist, pianist, and composer. Died 8/6/1931.

    MARCH 11

  • LeToya Luckett (1981). Early member of R&B/pop group Destiny’s Child.

  • Benji and Joel Madden (1979). Rock musicians in Good Charlotte.

  • Lisa Loeb (1968). Singer (“Stay (I Missed You).”

  • Bobby McFerrin (1950). Jazz/a cappella singer/songwriter (“Don’t Worry Be Happy”) born in New York City, NY. Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.

  • Flaco Jiménez (1939). Singer/songwriter and accordionist born Leonardo Jiménez in San Antonio, TX. Pioneer of conjunto music. Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.

  • Lawrence Welk (1903). South Dakota bandleader and host of own music TV show. Died 5/17/1992.

    MARCH 12

  • Shareefa (1984). R&B singer born Shareefa Faradah Cooper in Charlotte, North Carolina.

  • Frank Catalono (1978). Jazz saxophonist.

  • Graham Coxon (1969). German/English guitarist, saxophonist, and singer with Blur (1994’s Parklife).

  • Marlon Jackson (1957). Indiana musician with his brothers in The Jackson 5 (“ABC,” “The Love You Save,” “I Want You Back,” “I’ll Be There”).

  • Steve Harris (Iron Maiden) (1957)

  • Mike Gibbins (1949). Welsh drummer with Badfinger.

  • James Taylor (1948). Pop/folk singer/songwriter (“You’ve Got a Friend,” “Fire and Rain”) born in Boston, MA. Kennedy Center Honoree. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

  • Liza Minnelli (1946). Singer and actress in Cabaret. Daughter of Judy Garland.

  • Al Jarreau (1940). Jazz/R&B singer.

  • Leonard Chess (1917). Record executive (Chess Records) born Lejzor Shmuel Czyz in Motal, Poland. Died 10/16/1969. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

  • Paul Weston (1912). American jazz big band leader. Born Paul Weststein. Died 9/20/1996.

    MARCH 13

  • Common (1978)

  • Adam Clayton (1960). Rock bassist born in Chinnor, Oxfordshire, England. With U2 (The Joshua Tree). Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

  • Candi Staton (1940). Alabama musician (“Young Hearts Run Free”).

  • Neil Sedaka (1939). New York pop singer/composer (“Breaking Up Is Hard to Do”).

  • Mike Stoller (1933). American rock songwriter, usually with Jerry Leiber (Elvis Presley’s “Hound Dog” and “Jailhouse Rock,” the Coasters’ “Searchin’,” Wilbert Harrison’s “Kansas City,” the Drifters’ “On Broadway”).

  • Roy Haynes (1925). Jazz drummer born in Boston, MA. Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.

  • Sammy Kaye (1910). American bandleader. Died 6/2/1987.

  • Hugo Wolf (1860). Composer.

    MARCH 14

  • Colby O’Donis (1989). Singer (on Lady Gaga’s “Just Dance”).

  • Taylor Hanson (1983). Pop singer/keyboardist in group Hanson (“Mmmbop”) with brothers.

  • Kristian Bush (Sugarland) (1970)

  • Michael Bland (Soul Asylum) (1969)

  • Billy Sherwood (1965). Musician.

  • Jim Pons (1943). California rock bassist with The Turtles.

  • Quincy Jones (1933). R&B/jazz musician (Back on the Block) and producer (Michael Jackson’s 1982’s Thriller) born in Chicago, IL. Kennedy Center Honoree.

  • Dieter Schnebel (1930). Composer.

  • Les Baxter (1922). Texas jazz/ big band leader. Died 1/15/1996.

  • Les Brown (1912). American big band leader and composer (“Sentimental Journey”). Died 1/4/2001.

  • Johann Strauss, Sr. (1804). Composer.

  • Georg Philipp Telemann (1681). Composer.

    MARCH 15

  • Sid Wilson (1978). Musician.

  • Joseph Hahn (1977). DJ with rap-rock group Linkin Park (2000’s Hybrid Theory).

  • will.i.am (1975). Hip-hop artist with Black Eyed Peas (“I Gotta Feeling,” “Boom Boom Pow”).

  • Mark Hoppus (1972). Pop-punk bassist with Blink-182.

  • Mark McGrath (Sugar Ray) (1968)

  • Rockwell (1964)

  • Bret Michaels (Poison) (1963)

  • Steve McCoy (Dead Or Alive) (1962)

  • Terence Trent D’Arby (1962). New York R&B singer/songwriter (“Wishing Well,” “Sign Your Name,” Introducing the Hardline…). Born Terence Trent Howard. Later changed his name to Sananda Maitreya.

  • Dee Snider (1955). Rock singer with Twisted Sister (“We’re Not Gonna Take It”).

  • Ryland Peter “Ry” Cooder (1947). California singer/songwriter and guitarist.

  • Howard Scott (War) (1946)

  • Sly Stone (1944). R&B singer/songwriter born Sylvester Stewart in Denton, TX. With Sly & the Family Stone (“Everyday People,” “Family Affair,” 1969’s Stand!, 1971 There’s a Riot Goin’ On). Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

  • Mike Love (1941). California singer and saxophonist with the Beach Boys (“Good Vibrations,” Pet Sounds).

  • Phil Lesh (1940). American rock bassist and singer with the Grateful Dead.

  • Carl Smith (1927). American country singer. Died 1/16/2010.

  • Harry James (1916). American jazz trumpeter and bandleader (“I’ve Heard That Song Before,” “All or Nothing at All,” “I’ll Get By As Long As I Have You”). Died 7/5/1983.

  • Lightnin’ Hopkins (1912). Blues singer/songwriter and guitarist born Samuel John Hopkins in Centerville, TX. Died 1/30/1982. Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.

    MARCH 16

  • Swift (1976). Rapper.

  • Stewart Kerr (Texas) (1963)

  • Flavor Flav (1959). Rapper with Public Enemy (1988’s It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back, 1990’s Fear of a Black Planet).

  • Nancy Wilson (1954). Fronted rock group Heart (“Alone,” “Barracuda”) with sister Ann.

  • Michael Bruce (1948). Rock guitarist and keyboardist. With Alice Cooper. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

  • Jerry Jeff Walker (1942). New York composer (“Mr. Bojangles”). Born Paul Crosby.

  • Tommy Flanagan (1930). Michigan jazz pianist. Died 11/16/2001.

    MARCH 17

  • Caroline Corr (1973). Irish drummer with the Corrs.

  • Melissa Auf Der Maur (1972). Canadian bassist with Hole and Smashing Pumpkins.

  • Billy Corgan (1967). American rock singer/songwriter and guitarist with the Smashing Pumpkins (Siamese Dream, Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness).

  • Clare Grogan (1962). Scottish singer with Altered Images.

  • Mike Kindup (1959). Musician with Level 42.

  • Wally Stocker (1954). English guitarist with The Babys.

  • Scott Gorham (1951). Musician with Thin Lizzy.

  • Fran Byrne (1948). Irish drummer with Bees Make Honey and Ace.

  • Harold Brown (War) (1946)

  • John Sebastian (1944). New York rock singer/songwriter with the Lovin’ Spoonful (“Do You Believe in Magic?”).

  • Clarence Collins (1941). R&B singer born in Brooklyn, NY. With Little Anthony & the Imperials. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

  • Paul Kantner (1941). California rock singer/songwriter/guitarist with Jefferson Airplane (“White Rabbit,” 1967’s Surrealistic Pillow).

  • Zola Taylor (1938). Singer.

  • Nat “King” Cole (1919). Ttraditional pop/jazz singer (“The Christmas Song,” “Mona Lisa,” “Unforgettable”) born Nathaniel Adams Cole in Montgomery, AL. Died 2/15/1965. Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

  • Alfred Newman (1900). American musical theater composer. Died 2/17/1970.

    MARCH 18

  • Adam Levine (1979). Rock singer/guitarist with Maroon 5 (“Moves Like Jagger,” “Payphone,” “One More Night,” “Sugar,” “Girls Like You”).

  • Devin Lima (1977). Member of pop group LFO (“Summer Girls”).

  • Stuart Zender (Jamiroquai) (1974)

  • Queen Latifah (1970). Rapper and actress (Chicago).

  • Jerry Cantrell (1966). Washington rock guitarist with Alice in Chains.

  • Vanessa Williams (1963). R&B singer (“Save the Best for Last”) and actress. Former Miss America.

  • Jeff LeBar (Cinderella) (1963)

  • Irene Cara (1959). R&B/pop singer (“Flashdance…What a Feeling,” “Fame”).

  • John Hartman (Doobie Brothers) (1950)

  • B.J. Wilson (1947). English rock drummer with Procol Harum. Born Barrie James Wilson. Died 10/8/1990.

  • Eric Woolfson (1945). Scottish singer/songwriter/musician/co-founder of the Alan Parsons Project (“Eye in the Sky,” “Games People Play”). Died 12/2/2009.

  • Wilson Pickett (1941). Alabama R&B/soul singer (“In the Midnight Hour”). Died 1/19/2006.

  • Charley Pride (1938). Country singer born in Sledge, MS. Died 12/12/2020. Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.

  • John Kander (1927). Musical theater songwriter (“Theme from New York, New York,” Cabaret, Chicago) born in Kansas City, MO. Collaborated with Fred Ebb. Kennedy Center Honoree.

  • George Olsen (1893). American jazz bandleader. Died 3/18/1971.

    MARCH 19

  • Paul Atkinson (1946). Rock drummer born Cuffley, Hertforshire, UK. With the Zombies (“She’s Not There,” “Tell Her No”). Died 4/1/2004. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

  • Ruth Pointer (1946). California R&B singer with The Pointer Sisters (“Slow Hand,” “Fire,” “I’m So Excited”).

  • Tom Constanten (1944). Rock keyboardist born in Long Branch, NJ. With the Grateful Dead. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

  • Clarence “Frogman” Henry (1937)

  • Lennie Tristano (1919). Illinois jazz pianist. Died 11/18/1978.

  • Max Reger (1873). German composer. Died 5/11/1916.

    MARCH 20

  • Nick Wheeler (1982). Rock guitarist in the All-American Rejects.

  • Chester Bennington (1976). Rap-rock singer born in Phoenix, Arizona. Died 7/20/2017. With Linkin Park (“In the End,” 2000’s Hybrid Theory, 2003’s Meteora).

  • Slim Jim Phantom (1961). Rock musician with the Stray Cats (“Rock This Town”).

  • Jimmy Vaughan (1951). American blues-rock guitarist with the Fabulous Thunderbirds. Brother of blues-rock guitarist Stevie Ray Vaughan.

  • Carl Palmer (1947). English rock drummer with Emerson, Lake & Palmer (“Lucky Man”) and Asia (“Heat of the Moment”).

  • Jerry Reed (1937). American country singer/songwriter born Jerry Reed Hubbard. Died 9/1/2008.

  • Lee “Scratch” Perry (1936). Jamaican reggae and dub musician and producer born Rainford Hugh Perry in Kendal, Jamaica. Died 8/29/2021.

  • Sister Rosetta Tharpe (1915). Gospel/blues guitarist and singer (“Down by the Riverside,” “This Train”) born Rosetta Nubin in Cotton Plant, AR. Died 3/20/1915. Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

  • Oswald George “Ozzie” Nelson (1906). American actor and jazz bandleader. Died 6/3/1975.

    MARCH 21

  • Deryck Whibley (1980). Musician.

  • Andrew Copeland (Sister Hazel) (1968)

  • Jonas “Joker” Berggren (1967). Swedish pop keyboardist with Ace of Base (“The Sign”).

  • MC Maxim (Prodigy) (1967)

  • Sean Dickson (Soup Dragons) (1967)

  • Nobuo Uematsu (1959). Composer.

  • Conrad Lozano (1951). Musician with Los Lobos.

  • Russell Thompkins, Jr. (1951). Philadelphia singer with The Stylistics.

  • Roger Hodgson (1950). British rock singer and founder of Supertramp. Born Charles Roger Pomfret Hodgson.

  • Eddie Money (1949). Rock singer (“Two Tickets to Paradise,” “Take Me Home Tonight”).

  • Ray Dorset (1946). English singer with Mungo Jerry (“In the Summertime”).

  • Rosemary Stone (1945). R&B musician with Sly & the Family Stone (1969’s Stand!).

  • Vivian Stanshall (1943). English singer with The Bonzo Dog Doo-Dah Band. Died 3/5/1995.

  • Solomon Burke (1940). R&B singer (“Cry to Me”) born James Solomon McDonald in Philadelphia, PA. Known as “the King of Rock & Soul.” Died 10/10/2010. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

  • Otis Spann (1930). Mississippi blues pianist. Died 4/24/1970.

  • Son House (1902). Blues guitarist and singer.

  • Modest Mussorgsky (1839). Composer (Pictures at an Exhibition).

  • Johann Sebastian Bach (1685). German Baroque composer (Brandenburg Concertos, St. Matthew Passion, Goldberg Variations). Died 7/28/1750.

    MARCH 22

  • Stephanie Mills (1957). R&B singer and actress (Broadway’s The Wiz).

  • Andrew Lloyd Webber (1948). Musical theater composer (Cats, 1986’s Phantom of the Opera) born in Kensington, London, England. Kennedy Center Honoree.

  • Patrick Olive (1947). Grenadan guitarist and percussionist with Hot Chocolate.

  • George Benson (1943). Philadelphia R&B/jazz singer/guitarist.

  • Keith Relf (1943). English rock singer with The Yardbirds (“For Your Love”). Died 3/22/1943.

  • Stephen Sondheim (1930). Musical theater composer (1957’s West Side Story, 1959’s Gypsy) born in New York, New York. Died 11/26/2021. Kennedy Center Honoree.

  • Sonny Burke (1914). Pennsylvania jazz/big band leader. Died 5/31/1980.

  • John Yorke Atlee (1853). Pioneering recording artist (Listen to the Mocking Bird (aka "The Mocking Bird")) born in Washington D.C. Died 11/24/1933.

    MARCH 23

  • Damon Albarn (1968). Brit-pop singer/songwriter born in Whitechapel, London, England. With Blur (1994’s Parklife, “Song 2”) and Gorillaz (“Feel Good Inc.”).

  • Marti Pellow (1966). Musician with Wet Wet Wet.

  • Chaka Khan (1953). Illinois R&B singer with Rufus. Also a solo artist (“I Feel for You”). Born Yvette Marie Stevens.

  • Ric Ocasek (1949). American rock singer who fronted The Cars (“Just What I Needed,” “My Best Friend’s Girl,” 1978’s The Cars). Born Richard Otcasek.

  • Artie Shaw (1910). American jazz clarinetist and bandleader (“Begin the Beguine,” “Frenesi,” “Star Dust,” “Dancing in the Dark”) born Arthur Arshawsky. Died 12/30/2004.

    MARCH 24

  • Sharon Corr (1970). Violinist with siblings in the Corrs.

  • Mase (1970). Rapper.

  • Nena (1960). German pop singer (“99 Red Balloons”).

  • Nick Lowe (1949). British singer/songwriter and bassist (Brinsley Schwarz, Rockpile, solo), and producer.

  • Billy Stewart (1937). Washington D.C. musician (“Summertime”). Died 1/17/1970.

    MARCH 25

  • Ryan Lewis. (1988). Producer, DJ, and musician born in Spokane, Washington. In duo with Macklemore (“Can’t Hold Us,” “Thrift Shop”).

  • Melanie Blatt (1975). Musician with All Saints.

  • Steve Norman (1960). Musician with Spandau Ballet.

  • Paul Miles (1952). American singer/guitarist known as “The Blues Man.”

  • Maizie Wiliams (1951). West Indian singer with Boney M.

  • Neil Jones (1949). Welsh guitarist with Amen Corner.

  • Elton John (1947). Singer/songwriter and pianist (“Your Song,” “Candle in the Wind 1997”) born Reginald Kenneth Dwight in Pinner, England. Kennedy Center Honoree. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

  • Aretha Franklin (1942). R&B singer (“Respect,” “You Make Me Feel Like a Natural Woman”) born in Memphis, TN. Known as “The Queen of Soul.” Died 8/16/2018.

    Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. Kennedy Center Honoree. Medal of Arts. Pulitzer Prize. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

  • Anita Bryant (1940).

  • Hoyt Axton (1938). American country singer and songwriter (Three Dog Night’s “Joy to the World”). Died 10/26/1999.

  • Johnny Burnette (1934). Tennessee singer (“You’re Sixteen”). Brother of Dorsey Burnette. Died 8/15/1964.

  • Béla Bartók (1881). Hungarian classical composer and pianist. Died 9/26/1945.

  • Arturo Toscanini (1867). Violinist, conductor (NBC orchestra), and composer born in Parma, Emilia-Romagna, Italy. Brought classical music to radio. Died 1/16/1957. Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.

    MARCH 26

  • Jay Sean (1981)

  • Juvenile (1975)

  • James Iha (1968). American guitarist with Smashing Pumpkins.

  • Kenny Chesney (1968). Country singer.

  • Teddy Pendergrass (1950). Pennsylvania R&B singer with Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes.

  • Richard Tandy (ELO) (1948)

  • Steven Tyler (1948). New York rock singer with Aerosmith (“Dream On,” “Walk This Way”). Born Steven Victor Tallarico.

  • Fran Sheehan (Boston) (1946)

  • Diana Ross (1944). R&B/pop singer born in Detroit, MI. With The Supremes (“Where Did Our Love Go,” “Baby Love,” “Stop! In the Name of Love,” “You Can’t Hurry Love,” “You Keep Me Hangin’ On”) and later a solo act (“Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” “Upside Down,” “Endless Love”). Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. Kennedy Center Honoree. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

  • Pierre Boulez (1925). Composer, conductor, and writer born in Montbrison, France. Died 1/5/2016. Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.

    MARCH 27

  • Stacy “Fergie” Ferguson (1975). Pop singer with Black Eyed Peas (“My Humps”) and a solo act (“Big Girls Don’t Cry”).

  • Mariah Carey (1970). New York pop/R&B singer (“Vision of Love,” “One Sweet Day,” “We Belong Together”).

  • Andrew Farris (1959). Australian rock keyboardist with INXS (“Need You Tonight,” “What You Need”).

  • Tony Banks (1950). Prog-rock keyboardist born in East Heathly, Sussex, England. With Genesis (1973’s Selling England by the Pound, 1974’s The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway, 1986’s Invisible Touch). Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

  • Junior Parker (1932). Arkansas R&B/blues musician born Herman Parker. Died 11/8/1971.

  • Mstislav Rostropovich (1927). Cellist/conductor born in Baku, Azerbaijan, SSR (Russia). Died 4/27/2007. Kennedy Center Honoree.

  • Sarah Vaughan (1924). Jazz singer (“Tenderly”) born in Newark, NJ. Died 4/3/1990. Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.

  • Robert Lockwood, Jr. (1915). Arkansas blues guitarist. Died 11/21/2006.

  • Moon Mullican (1909). Texas musician known as “The King of Hillbilly Piano”. Born Aubrey Mullican. Died 1/1/1967.

  • Leroy Carr (1905). Tennessee blues singer. Died 4/29/1935.

  • Hal Kemp (1904). American bandleader, saxophonist, clarinetist, and composer. Died 12/21/1940.

    MARCH 28

  • Lady Gaga (1986). American dance-pop singer (“Just Dance,” “Poker Face,” “Bad Romance,” “Born This Way,” “Shallow,” 2008’s The Fame) born Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta.

  • Scott Mills (1974). BBC radio disc jockey.

  • James Atkins (EMF) (1967)

  • Reba McEntire (1955). Country singer born in Chockie, OK. Kennedy Center Honoree.

  • John Evans (1948). Musician with Jethro Tull (1971’s Aqualung).

  • Milan Williams (1948). Mississippi keyboardist, trombonist, guitarist, and drummer with The Jays and The Commodores. Died 7/9/2006.

  • Sally Carr (1945). Scottish singer with Middle of the Road.

  • Chuck Portz (1945). California bassist with The Turtles.

  • Bill Gaither (1936). Gospel singer.

  • Thad Jones (1923). American trumpeter and composer born Thaddeus Joseph Jones. Died 8/20/1986.

  • Rudolf Serkin (1903). Pianist born in Egar, Bohemia. Died 5/8/1991. Kennedy Center Honoree.

  • Paul Whiteman (1890). American bandleader. Died 12/29/1967.

    MARCH 29

  • John Popper (1967). Singer with Blues Traveler.

  • Perry Farrell (1959). American rock singer with Jane’s Addiction. Born Perry Bernstein.

  • Bobby Kimball (Toto) (1947)

  • Terry Jacks (1946). Canadian singer (“Seasons in the Sun”).

  • Billy Thorpe (1946). Musician.

  • Vangelis (1943). Greek composer (“Chariots of Fire”) born Evangelos Papathanassiou.

  • Chad Allan (Guess Who) (1943)

  • Raymond Davis (1940). Bass singer born in Sumter, SC. With Parliament and Funkdadelic. Died 7/5/2005. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

  • Pearl Bailey (1918). American big band singer. Died 8/17/1990.

    MARCH 30

  • Scott Moffatt (1983). Member of Canadian pop group the Moffatts.

  • Norah Jones (1979). Adult contemporary/jazz singer (Come Away with Me).

  • Adam Goldstein (1973). DJ.

  • Celine Dion (1968). Canadian pop singer (“My Heart Will Go On,” “Because You Loved Me”).

  • Tracy Chapman (1964). Ohio contemporary folk singer/songwriter (“Fast Car,” “Give Me One Reason”).

  • MC Hammer (1962). Rapper (“U Can’t Touch This”) born Stanley Kirk Burrell.

  • Randy Warmer (1955). Musician.

  • Dave Ball (Procol Harum) (1950)

  • Re Styles (1950). singer with The Tubes.

  • Jim “Dandy” Mangrum (1948). Arkansas singer with Black Oak Arkansas.

  • Eric Clapton (1945). Rock guitarist and singer born in Ripley, Surrey, England. With several acclaimed groups, including Cream (“Sunshine of Your Love,” “White Room,” 1967’s Disraeli Gears), Derek & the Dominos (“Layla”), Blind Faith (“Can’t Find My Way Home”), and successful with a solo career (“Tears in Heaven,” “Wonderful Tonight”). Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (3x).

  • Graeme Edge (1941). Progressive-rock drummer born in Rocester, Staffordshire, England. With the Moody Blues (1967’s Days of Future Passed). Died 11/11/2021. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

  • Astrud Gilberto (1940). Brazilian bossa nova singer (“The Girl from Ipanema”).

  • Rolf Harris (1930). Australian entertainer (“Tie Me Kangaroo Down, Sport”).

  • Sonny Boy Williamson #1 (1914). Tennessee blues musician born John Lee Williamson. Died 6/1/1948.

  • Frankie Laine (1913). Singer (“Mule Train”). Died 2/6/2007.

    MARCH 31

  • Angus Young (1955). Scottish-born Australian rock guitarist/songwriter and co-founder of >AC/DC (1980’s Back in Black).

  • Tony Brock (1954). English rock drummer with The Babys.

  • Sean Hopper (1953). Rock musician with Huey Lewis & the News (1983’s Sports).

  • Mick Ralphs (1944). English rock guitarist with Mott the Hoople and Bad Company. Born Michael Jeffrey Ralphs.

  • Frank Barsalona (1938). Talent agent and founder of first major rock and roll booking agency. Died 11/22/2012. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

  • Herb Alpert (1935). Producer, composer, trumpeter, and bandleader (“The Lonely Bull,” “Taste of Honey,” “This Guy’s in Love with You,” “Rise”) born in Los Angeles, CA. Co-founder of A&M Records. Medal of Arts. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

  • Shirley Jones (1934). Singer and actress (TV’s The Partridge Family).

  • Lefty Frizzell (1928). Texas country singer. Born William Orville Frizzell. Died 7/19/1975.

  • Dorothy DeLay (1917). Violin teacher (Julliard, Sarah Lawrence College, University of Cincinnati) born in Medicine Lodge, KS. Died 3/24/2002. Medal of Arts.

  • Red Norvo (1908). American jazz bandleader. Died 4/6/1999.

  • Joseph Haydn (1732). Austrian classical composer and pianist. Died 5/31/1809.

    This page last updated March 3, 2023.
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