Obituaries


Songwriter Obituaries 2010

Linda Hargrove (61), singer songwriter ('Love Was Once Around The Dance Floor', 'Tennessee Whiskey' and 'Just Get Up And Close the Door'), and whose songs have been recorded by George Jones, Leon Russell, Michael Nesmith, Al Green, Tammy Wynette, David Allan Coe, Asleep At The Wheel, Lynn Anderson, Ernest Tubb, Tanya Tucker, Tommy James, and Johnny Rodriguez. In Tallahassee, Florida, USA, from complications from a bone marrow transplant George David Weiss (89), songwriter who wrote Elvis Presley's, 'Can't Help Falling In Love' and Louis Armstrong's 'What A Wonderful World' as well as collaborating on such Broadway musicals as 'Mr Wonderful' and 'Maggie Flynn', and whose songs have been recorded by Dinah Washington, The Stylistics, Ella Fitzgerald, Tennessee Ernie Ford, Sammy Davis Jr., Perry Como, Nat 'King' Cole, Joey Ramone, Patti Page, Sarah Vaughan, Tom Jones, Mel Torme and Kay Starr. International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member. Songwriters Hall Of Fame Inductee. In Oldwick, New Jersey, USA, of heart failure Chris Dedrick (62), singer and songwriter who was a member of Free Design ('Don't Turn Away' and 'Kites Are Fun') as well as writing music for such films as 'The Saddest Music In The World' and 'Childstar'. Chris also worked with The Canadian Brass, Barry Mann, Peter, Paul And Mary, The Star-Scape Singers, Melissa Manchester, Simon And Garfunkel and James Taylor. In Toronto, Ontario, Canada, of cancer Ben Keith (73), steel guitarist, singer and songwriter who was a member of The Pegi Young Band as well as working with Neil Young, Otis Blanton, Jerry Lee Lewis, Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, Ann Murray, Ringo Starr, Lonnie Mack, The Band, Linda Ronstadt, Patsy Cline, Ian And Sylvia, Terry Reid, Paul Butterfield, Emmylou Harris, Todd Rundgren, Mother Earth, Warren Zevon, J.J. Cale, David Crosby and Graham Nash. At the Broken Arrow Ranch in California, USA, following a heart attack Murray Deutch (90), music industry executive, singer, pianist, and music publisher, who helped with the career of Buddy Holly And The Crickets while head of the music publishing company Peer-Southern International. Later he headed up the music division at United Artists, before founding the publishing company, Buttermilk Sky. Murray was the husband of actress, Lea Thompson, father of film director, Howard Deutch and brother-in-law of actor, Robert Walden. In Scottsdale, Arizona, USA, following a heart attack Solomon Burke (70), singer and songwriter of such hits as 'Cry To Me' and 'Everybody Needs Somebody To Love', who worked with Patty Loveless, Dolly Parton, Emmylou Harris, Patty Griffin and Gillian Welch and whose songs have been covered by The Rolling Stones, Wilson Pickett and Otis Redding. Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Inductee, International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member. Solomon Burke died at Schipol Airport, Amsterdam, Netherlands, following a heart attack Neil Richardson (80), composer, arranger and clarinetist, who led The Neil Richardson Singers and worked with Neil Diamond, The BBC Radio Orchestra, Johnny Mathis, Vic Damone and George Shearing. He also wrote for radio, TV and film, and for both The King Singers and The Swingle Singers. In Nerja, Spain, of heart failure. Dale Hawkins (74), singer, guitarist and songwriter ('Suzy Q' and 'Wildcat Tamer'), who went on the produce The Five Americans ('Western Union'), John Fred & His Playboy Band ('Judy In Disguise'), Jon & Robin, Bruce Channel, The Dolls, Ronnie Self, The Festivals, James Bell, The Gentrys and The Uniques, as well as working with Michael Nesmith and Harry Nillson. In Goldmine, Louisiana, USA, of colon cancer Nathan Scott (95), composer, arranger and conductor who wrote music for such TV shows as 'Dragnet', 'My Three Sons', 'Rawhide', 'Lassie', 'Have Gun Will Travel', 'The Twilight Zone', 'The Untouchables' and 'Wagon Train'. In Los Angeles, California, USA, of heart failure Paul Sharfick (29), songwriter and member of The Dudes Of Lord. In Indianapolis, Indiana, USA, of gunshot wounds following a bank robbery carried out by Mr. Sharfick Paul Dunlap (91), pianist and composer whose compositions for over 200 films and TV shows include scores for the films 'Three Stooges In Orbit' and for Abbott And Costello's last movie 'Dance With Me, Henry'. In Palm Springs, California, of heart failure Elliot Willensky (66), songwriter and pianist who wrote 'If You Say My Eyes Are Beautiful' and 'Got To Be There' and whose songs have been recorded by Chaka Khan, Smokey Robinson, The Fifth Dimension, Gladys Knight, Jermaine Jackson, Whitney Houston, Thelma Houston, Syreeta and Jerry Butler, In Summit, New Jersey, USA, following a stroke Eddie Carroll (77), Canadian actor, comedian and songwriter, who wrote The Lettermen's 'How Is Julie'. In New York City, USA, of heart failure Gene Lees (82), writer, critic and lyricist who collaborated with Antonio Carlos Jobim to write 'Quiet Nights Of Quiet Stars' which has been recorded by Diana Krall, Peggy Lee, Queen Latifah, Frank Sinatra and Ella Fitzgerald. In Ojai, California, USA, following a stroke Ernie Harwell (92), songwriter and sportscaster who wrote Homer And Jethro's 'Upside Down' and B.J. Thomas's 'I Don’t Know Any Better', as well as being a National Sportscasters Hall Of Fame Inductee and Michigan Sports Hall Of Fame Inductee. In Washington, Georgia, USA, of heart failure Butch White (71), singer and songwriter who wrote Lee Andrews And The Hearts’ 'Teardrops' and worked with The Lee Andrews Group and The Larks. In Philadelphia, USA, following a clot on his lung Richard Delvy (68), drummer, songwriter and producer, and a member of The Bel-Airs ('Mr. Moto') and The Challengers who went on to produce The Chambers Brothers and The Outsiders, as well as writing the theme for the film 'The Green Slime' and music for the cartoons 'The Archies'. In Los Angeles, California, USA, of heart failure. Hank Cochran (75), singer, guitarist and songwriter ('Sally Was a Good Old Girl' and 'I Just Burned A Dream') as well as being half half of the duo The Cochran Brothers (with Eddie Cochran - to whom he was not actually related). His songs have been recorded by Patsy Cline ('I Fall To Pieces'), Elvis Costello, George Strait, Burl Ives ('A Little Bitty Tear'), Ray Price ('Make The World Go Away'), Ronnie Milsap, Mickey Gilley, Natalie Cole, Dean Martin, Merle Haggard ('It's Not Love (But It's Not Bad)'), Elvis Presley, Linda Ronstadt and Eddy Arnold ('I Want To Go With You'). International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member. Nashville Songwriters Hall Of Fame Inductee. Mississippi Music Hall Of Fame Inductee. In Hendersonville, Tennessee, USA, of pancreatic cancer Margaret Ann Rich (77), songwriter who wrote songs for her husband Charlie Rich ('A Sunday Kind Of Woman' and 'Nothing In The World') and whose work has been recorded by Ricky Van Shelton ('Life Has Its Little Ups And Downs'), Tom Jones ('Field Of Yellow Daisies'), Kris Kristofferson ('A Part Of Your Life'), Rita Coolidge and Bobby 'Blue' Bland. Founding member of The Memphis chapter of The National Academy Of Recording Arts And Sciences. In Germantown, Tennessee, USA, of heart failure George Richey (75), songwriter, producer, manager, keyboardist and fiddler who co-wrote Tammy Wynette's 'Til I Can Make It On My Own' and 'A Picture Of Me (Without You)' and who worked with Ringo Starr, Tommy James, Marty Robbins, Lefty Frizzell and Kenny Rodgers. His songs have been recorded by George Jones, Johnny Cash, Wanda Jackson, Lynn Anderson, Ferlin Husky, Dwight Yoakam, Tanya Tucker, Dottie West and Barbara Mandrell, and he also managed Tammy Wynette to whom he had been married. International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member. In Promised Land, Arkansas, USA, of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease Bobby Hebb (72), singer, songwriter, trumpeter and guitarist ('Sunny' and 'A Satisfied Mind') as well as working with Bo Diddley ('Diddley Daddy') and Roy Acuff in The Smoky Mountain Boys. His songs have been recorded by Dusty Springfield, The Classics IV, Electric Flag, James Brown, Cher, Lou Rawls ('A Natural Man'), Frank Sinatra, Stevie Wonder, Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald, Del Shannon and Nick Cave. In Nashville, Tennessee, USA, of heart failure Kenny Edwards (64), guitarist, bassist, singer and songwriter ('The Sky Keeps Falling' and 'Gone Again'), and a member of The Stone Poneys ('Different Drum' and 'Long Long Time') and Bryndle ('I Want To Touch You' and 'Just Can't Walk Away'), and who worked with Stevie Nicks, Don Henley, Warren Zevon, Bonnie Raitt, Rita Coolidge, Linda Ronstadt, Dolly Parton, Barbi Benton and Emmylou Harris. In Santa Barbara, California, USA, of cancer. Cor Aaftink (76), record producer, lyricist and co-founder of the production company Corduroy who produced BZN. In Amsterdam, Netherlands, following a heart attack Tony Clarke (69), guitarist and songwriter (Malcolm Roberts 'Our Song'), and a session musician for Decca Records who produced The Moody Blues, The Equals, Providence, Clannad, Pinkerton's Colours, Rick Wakeman, Nicky Hopkins and The Four Tops. In London, UK, of heart failure Neil Christian (67), singer and songwriter ('That's Nice' and 'Two At A Time'), who led Neil Christian And The Crusaders, managed Crushed Butler and worked with Jimmy Page and Richie Blackmore. In London, UK, of cancer Willie Mitchell (82), songwriter, trumpeter, producer and arranger ('30-60-90', 'Soul Serenade' and '20-75') who worked with and produced Al Green, O. V. Wright, Otis Clay, Bobby Blue Bland, Ann Peebles, Syl Johnson, Jimmy McCracklin, Betty Everett, Pops Staples, 5 Royales, Little Jimmy King, Preston Shannon, Ike Turner, John Mayer and Buddy Guy and worked for Waylo, The Home Of The Blues, and Hi Records. In Memphis, Tennessee, USA, of heart failure Bobby Charles who wrote under the name Robert Charles Guidry (72), singer and songwriter who penned Fats Domino's 'Walking To New Orleans' and Bill Haley And The Comets' 'See You Later Alligator', worked with Dr. John, The Band and Clarence 'Frogman' Henry and whose songs have been recorded Kris Kristofferson, Ray Charles, Delbert McClinton, Etta James and Gatemouth Brown. International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member Louisiana Music Hall Of Fame Inductee, In Abbeville, Louisiana, USA, following a hart attack Chilton Searcy Price (96), songwriter, whose hits include 'Slow Poke' and 'You Belong To Me' and whose songs have been recorded by Doris Day, Tony Bennett, Bob Dylan, Joni James, The Duprees, Johnny Mathis, Paul Anka, Tori Amos, Pee Wee King, Redd Stewart, Jo Stafford, Dean Martinand Ella Fitzgerald. In Louisville, Kentucky, USA, of natural causes Alistair Hulett (59), singer, guitarist and songwriter ('Everyone I Know' and 'Almost Unintentional'), who was a member of Roaring Jack ('Yuppietown' and 'The Lass Behind The Beertaps') and who worked with Dave Swarbrick ('Don't Sign Up For War' and 'The Granite Cage'). In Glasgow, Scotland, of liver failure Johnny Dankworth (83), saxophonist. clarinettist and composer, who led The Dankworth Seven, worked with Charlie Parker, Clark Terry, Lionel Hampton, Ella Fitzgerald, Dizzy Gillespie, Benny Goodman, Herbie Hancock, Dudley Moore and Sidney Bechet, and penned music for TVs, 'The Avengers' and 'Tomorrow's World', and was married to singer, Cleo Laine. In Woodford, Essex, UK Songwriter Obituaries 2009 Vic Chesnutt (45), singer, songwriter and guitarist ('Isadora Duncan' and 'Flirted With You All My Life'), and a member of Brute ('All Kinds' and 'Let's Get Down To Business'), The La-Dee-Das, The Amorphous Strums, and who also worked with Elf Power, Lambchop, Widespread Panic, Van Dyke Parks, Michael Stipe, Victoria Williams, Bill Frisell, Thee Silver Mt. Zion, Godspeed You, Black Emperor, Guy Piccioto, The Cowboy Junkies and Liz Durrett, as well as appearing in the film 'Sling Blade'. International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member. In Athens, Georgia, by suicide Eric Woolfson (64), singer, songwriter and pianist who co-founded The Alan Parsons Project ('Time' and 'Eye In The Sky') and collaborated with Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, and whose songs have been recorded by Peter Noone, Marianne Faithfull, Frank Ifield, Dave Berry, Joe Dassin, Marmalade and The Tremeloes. In London, UK, of cancer Teddy Vann (75), songwriter and producer who co-wrote Johnny Thunder's 'Loop De Loop' and Luther Vandross' 'The Power Of Love /Love Power') and who worked with Roberta Meshel, Lou Donaldson, John Fogerty and Donna Summers. In New York City, USA, of cancer Cliff Crofford (80), songwriter, singer, trumpet player and guitarist who worked with The Orange Blossom Playboys, The Jimmy Thomason Band, Billy Mize ('Tell Him No') and The Beardsley Ball Room as well as appearing in the films 'Every Which Way But Loose' and 'Smokey And The Bandit II'. In Rochester, Texas, USA, following a stroke Norton Buffalo (58), singer, songwriter and harmonica player ('The Odds Are Against Us' and 'Ain't No Bread In The Breadbox'), and who was also a member of High Noon, The Knockouts, Norton & Friends and The Stampede as well as working with Clover, The Moonlighters, Elvin Bishop, The Steve Miller Band ('Winter Time' and 'The Stake'), Commander Cody And His Lost Planet Airmen, The Doobie Brothers, Bonnie Raitt, Johnny Cash, Judy Collins, Amy Grant, George Kahumoku Jr. and Ramblin' Jack Elliott. In Paradise, California, USA, following a heart attack Luther Dixon (77), singer, songwriter, producer and guitarist who co-wrote Top Ten hits for Gene McDaniels ('A Hundred Pounds Of Clay'), The Crests' ('Sixteen Candles') and The Shirelles' ('Tonight's The Night') as well as working with The Four Buddies, The Barons and The Buddies For Glory. International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member. In Jacksonville, Florida, USA, following a heart attack Johnny Mullins (86), songwriter and guitarist who wrote Emmy Lou Harris' 'Blue Kentucky Girl', Porter Wagoner's 'Company's Comin' and Loretta Lynn's 'Success') and was a Missouri Writers Hall of Fame Inductee. In Springfield, Missouri, USA of Alzheimers disease. Patrick Swayze (57), actor, songwriter and singer, whose hits include 'She's Like The Wind'. In Los Angeles, California, USA, of cancer Johnny Mullins (86), songwriter and guitarist whose songs include Emmy Lou Harris's 'Blue Kentucky Girl', Porter Wagoner's 'Company's Comin' and Loretta Lynn's 'Success'. In Springfield, Missouri, USA, of alzheimer's disease Freddy Bienstock (81), music publisher, CEO of Carlin America music publishing and co-founder of The Hudson Bay Music Company. At Carlin, he built an expansive catalogue of more than 100,000 of America's best-loved hits, including classics like 'Fever', 'Happy Together', 'The Twist' and 'What a Wonderful World'.  He began his storied career in the stock room of publisher Chappell and Company, later becoming its Chairman. He served on the NMPA Board from 1989 until 2008. He also served on the board of ASCAP. In Zurich, Switzerland, of heart failure Ellie Greenwich (69), singer, pianist, songwriter and producer, whose songs include 'Then He Kissed Me', 'Leader Of The Pack', 'Hanky Panky' and 'Da Doo Ron Ron'. She was also a member of The Jivettes and The Raindrops ('What A Guy' and 'That Boy John') and worked with Frank Sinatra, Dusty Springfield, Bobby Darin, Lesley Gore, Desmond Child, Paul Shaffer, Neil Diamond, Ella Fitzgerald, Nona Hendryx, Cyndi Lauper and Lou Christie. Formerly married to songwriter Jeff Barry. International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member. In New York, USA, following a heart attack Walter Haynes (81), steel guitarist and producer  who co-wrote, 'Girl On The Billboard' and worked with Jimmy Dickens ('We Could'), Del Reeves, Ferlin Husky, Webb Pierce, The Everly Brothers, J.J. Cale, Jeanne Pruett and Patsy Cline ('Walkin' After Midnight'), as well as producing Marty Robbins and Bill Monroe and being a staff musician on The Grand Ole Opry. In Tyler, Texas, USA, of heart failure Waldi Schubert (72), member of the Advisory Council of the ISA - International Songwriters Association. On July 14th 2009, in London, UK, following a short illness. Deeply regretted by his brothers George and Arthur, his niece Bridget, his family, the chairman, staff and members of the International Songwriters Association, and a wide circle of friends Angela Morley (known also by her male name Wally Stott) (84), English-born composer, conductor and saxophonist, who wrote music for 'Dynasty', 'Dallas' and 'Wonder Woman' as well as playing with the Bert Clegg Band, the Oscar Rabin Band and The Geraldo Orchestra. Stott also did arrangements for Benny Goodman and Nelson Riddle and worked with Rosemary Clooney, Mel Torme, Shirley Bassey and Dusty Springfield as well as collaborating with John Williams. In  Scottsdale, Arizona, USA of complications from a fall Clive Scott (64), keyboardist, singer, songwriter and a  member of Scott And The Antarctics and Jigsaw ('Sky High' and 'Who Do You Think You Are?'). In Coventry, Warwickshire, UK, following a stroke suffered during brain surgery Kenny Rankin (69),  singer, songwriter and guitarist ('In The Name Of Love' and 'Peaceful'), who worked with Bob Dylan ('Subterranean Homesick Blues' and 'Maggie's Farm') and whose songs have been recorded by Peggy Lee, Stephen Bishop, Carmen McRae, Helen Reddy and Mel Torme. In Los Angeles, California, USA, of cancer Bob Bogle (75), guitarist, bassist, and composer, who was a member of The Versatones, The Impacts and The Ventures (Walk Don't Run' and 'Hawaii Five-O'). Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Inductee. In Vancouver, Washington, USA of Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma Steve Race (88), pianist, broadcaster and composer ('Nicola' and 'Faraway Music'), who worked with Harry Leader, The RAF Swing Stars, Lew Stone and Cyril Stapleton, and who was an arranger for the Ted Heath Band and Judy Garland as well as hosting radio's and TV's 'My Music'.  In London, UK, of heart failure Hugh Hopper (64), bassist and composer ('Hopper Tunity Box' and 'Gnat Prong'), who  was a member of The Wilde Flowers, Soft Machine, Soft Works,  and Humi and who worked with Syd Barrett ('No Good Trying' and 'Love You'), East Wind, Gilgamesh, Equipe Out, Caveman Shoestore, Isotope, In Cahoots, Short Wave, Lisa S. Klossner, Clear Frame, and The Carla Bley Band. In London, UK, of leukaemia Ernie Ashworth (81), singer and songwriter ('Each Moment Spent With You' and 'Talk Back Trembling Lips'), whose songs have been recorded by Little Jimmy Dickens, Paul Anka, Carl Smith and Johnny Horton. An Alabama Music Hall Of Fame Inductee. In Huntsville, Alabama, USA, of heart failure Hank Locklin (91), singer and songwriter ('Please Help Me I'm Falling' and 'Send Me The Pillow That You Dream On'). A member of The Rocky Mountain Playboys,  he worked with The Oak Ridge Boys and The Jordanaires. His songs have been recorded by Willie Nelson, Gene Autry, Dwight Yoakam, Charley Pride, Dolly Parton and Roy Rogers. Florida Artists Hall Of Fame Inductee, and regarded as one of the American singers who most influenced the growth of country music in Ireland. In Brewton, Alabama, USA, of heart failure Arthur Kent (89), songwriter and pianist (Skeeter Davis's 'The End Of The World' and Julie London's 'I'm Coming Back To You'), who collaborated with Johnny Mercer, Sammy Gallop and Redd Evans and whose songs have been recorded by Ella Fitzgerald, Nat King Cole, Eydie Gorme, Steve Lawrence and The Mills Brothers. In Florence, South Carolina, USA, of cancer Cornelia Wallace (70), singer, songwriter, guitarist and pianist ('It's No Summer Love' and 'Baby With The Barefoot Feet'), who worked with Roy Acuff and was both the niece of Governor James Folsom and the second wife of American presidential candidate Governor George Wallace of Alabama. In Sebring, Florida, USA, of cancer Scott Turner (77), singer and songwriter (Gene Vincent's 'If You Want My Lovin'' and Tennessee Ernie Ford's 'Hicktown'), and former member of Tommy Sands And The Raiders who worked with Guy Mitchell and Eddie Fisher, collaborated with Buddy Holly, Audie Murphy, Doc Pomus, Alex Harvey, Herb Alpert and John Marascalco as well as producing Slim Whitman, Del Reeves and Jimmy Clanton. In Cobleskill, New York, USA, following a heart attack Steve Dullaghan (43), guitarist songwriter, and a member of The Primitives ('Crash' and 'Really Stupid'). In Cheylesmore, near Coventry, UK, of undisclosed causes Michael Sucher (49), keyboardist, guitarist, bassist, singer and songwriter ('Twilight Morning' and 'Liquid Sun'), as well as being a member of Theory In Practice, The Sandra Wright Band and Rush Hour. He also worked with Big Joe Burrell, Mighty Sam McClain, Danny Gatton, Tom Principato, and Tim Eyermann's East Coast Offering. In Montpelier, Vermont, USA, of lung cancer Tristram Cary (83), composer who wrote the music for many films  including 'Quatermass And The Pit' and 'The Ladykillers', as well as television's  'Doctor Who'. In Oxford, UK of heart failure Lou Teicher (84), composer and one half of the piano duo Ferrante & Teicher ('Theme From Exodus', 'Theme From The Apartment' and 'Midnight Cowboy'). In Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, USA, of heart failure Mel Galley (60), guitarist, songwriter, and member of Whitesnake ('Here I Go Again' and 'Love Ain't No Stranger'), Trapeze ('It's Only A Dream' and 'Another Day'), Phenomena and Finders Keepers ('Sadie, The Cleaning Lady') as well as working with Cozy Powell ('Formula One'). In Cannock, Staffordshire, UK, of cancer of the oesophagus Robert Hazard (60), country singer-singwriter who also wrote Cyndi Lauper's, 'Girls Just Wanna Have Fun' as well as leading Robert Hazard And The Heroes ('Escalator Of Life' and 'Change Reaction'). In Boston, Massachusetts, USA, after surgery for pancreatic cancer Stephen Garrett aka Static, (32), singer, songwriter and producer who co-wrote Aaliyah's 'Are You That Somebody' as well as songs for Nicole Wray, Brandy and Destiny's Child, while a member of Playa. In Louisville, Kentucky, USA, following a brain aneurysm Artie Singer (90), bass player, bandleader, songwriter, and label owner (Singular Records), who produced Danny & The Juniors' 'At The Hop' and 'Rock 'N' Roll Is Here To Stay' and made frequent appearences on TV's The Paul Whiteman Show as well as being a vocal coach for Chubby Checker, Al Martino, Frankie Avalon and Bobby Rydell. In King Of Prussia, Pennsylvania, USA, of heart failure Leonard Rosenman (84), composer who wrote music for such films as 'Rebel Without A Cause', 'Fantastic Voyage' and 'Beneath The Planet Of The Apes' and for TV's 'Marcus Welby MD' and 'Combat!'.  In Woodland Hills, California, USA following a heart attack Gloria Shayne Regney Baker (70), wife of composer Noel Regney, and a songwriter in her own right, who penned such hits as Johnny Mathis' 'Do You Hear What I Hear' and James Darren's 'Goodbye Cruel World'. In Stamford, Connecticutt, USA, of heart failure John Martyn (61), English singer-songwriter ('London Conversation' and 'Fly On Home'), who worked with Eric Clapton, Danny Thompson, David Gilmour, Elton John and Phil Collins. In Thomastown, Kilkenny, Ireland, of pneumonia Songwriter Obituaries 2008 Maurice Jarre (85), French composer who penned more than 150 film scores including 'Ghost', 'Doctor Zhivago', 'Enemy Mine', 'Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome' and 'Lawrence Of Arabia'. In Los Angeles, California, USA, of cancer Michael Cox (61), singer, songwriter and novelist ('In The Old Days' and 'Am I?' as Matthew Ellis) and the book, 'The Meaning Of Night'. In Northamptonshire, UK, of cancer Donald Kahn (90), son of composer Gus Kahn, and a songwriter who wrote such songs as 'A Beautiful Friendship', and tunes recorded by Ella Fitzgerald, Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole, Margaret Whiting, Kenny G., Bobby Troup, Jack Jones, Shirley Horn, Sarah Vaughan and Rosemary Clooney. In New York, USA, of heart failure Norman Whitfield (66), songwriter, pianist and producer, who worked with Motown, collaborated with Barrett Strong, and whose hits include songs recorded by The Temptations ('(I Know) I'm Losing You'), Marvin Gaye ('Pride & Joy'), Gladys Knight & The Pips ('I Heard It Through The  Grapevine'), Edwin Starr ('War'), Rare Earth, Rose Royce ('Car Wash') and The Undisputed Truth ('Smiling Faces Sometimes'). International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member. In Detroit, Michigan, USA, of diabetes and other illnesses Nappy Brown (79), singer, songwriter and musician ('Don't Be Angry' and 'Night Time Is The Right Time'), and who worked with The  Heavenly Lights as well as recording for Savoy, Alligator, Bling Pig, Stockholm,  Black Top, JSP, Meltone, Ichiban, and New Moon Records. In Charlotte, North Carolina, USA, of heart failure Jerry Reed (72), singer, songwriter, guitarist and actor ('When You're Hot, You're Hot' and 'Guitar Man') and who worked with Chet Atkins, Bobby Bare, Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson and Elvis Presley, and whose songs have been recorded by Brenda Lee, Gene Vincent and Porter Wagoner. As an actor, he appeared in all three, 'Smokey And The Bandit' movies. International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member. Nashville Songwriters Hall Of Fame Inductee. In Nashville, Tennessee, USA, of complications from emphysema Charles 'Ray' Loring (65), composer and pianist who wrote the score for the film, 'Ruby' as well as over 100 episodes of NOVA's 'Saving The National Treasures' series. In Bethlehem, New Hampshire, USA, following a heart attack suffered while hiking Rick Wright (64), keyboardist, singer and songwriter - ('Mad Yannis Dance' and 'Against The Odds') as well as being a member of The Pink Floyd Sound which became Pink Floyd ('The Great Gig In The Sky' and 'Astronomy Domine') and Zee. Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Inductee. In London, UK, from cancer Isaac Hayes (66), songwriter, producer, arranger and actor who-wrote Sam & Dave's, 'Soul Man' and penned 'Theme From Shaft', 'I Can't Turn Around' and 'Joy', as well as working with Otis Redding, Wilson Pickett, Sammy Davis Jr., Albert King and Alcia Keys and being the voice of the cartoon character Chef on TV's 'South Park'. International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member. Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Inductee. Songwriters Hall Of Fame Inductee. In Memphis, Tennessee, USA, following a stroke Ronnie Drew (73), folk singer, songwriter and guitarist, who founded The Ronnie Drew Group which became The Dubliners ('Seven Drunken Nights' and a version of 'Finnegan's Wake'), as well as working with The Pogues, Eleanor Shanley, Christy Moore, Antonio Breschi and The Dropkick Murphys. In Dublin, Ireland, of heart failure Robert L'Herbier (87), singer/songwriter and a Canadian Association Of Broadcasters Hall Of Fame Inductee. In Quebec, Canada, from heart failure Clyde Otis (84), songwriter and producer who worked with Brook Benton ('It's Just A Matter Of Time' and  'Endlessly'), Sarah Vaughan, Charlie Rich, Sonny James,  Timi Yuro and The Diamonds. In Englewood, New Jersey, USA, of heart failure Daniel Hetu (58), pianist and songwriter ('J'Attendais') and musical director for Rene Simard. In Montreal, Canada, of cirrhosis of the liver Fr. Eddie Hontiveros also known as Fr. Honti (85), composer and musician who wrote such hymns as 'Papuri Sa Diyos' and 'Magnificat'. In Iloilo City, Philippines, of heart failure Frank Lewin (83), composer who penned music for such TV shows as 'The Nurses' and 'The Defenders'. In Breslau, Germany, of congestive heart failure Cliff Thomas (67), singer and guitarist who led the Cliff Thomas Trio, co-writing such hits as 'Lovers Holiday' and 'Pickin' Wild Mountain Berries', In Gulfport, Mississippi, USA, of cancer Jeff Salen (55), guitarist, singer and songwriter and a member of The Tuff Darts ('Who's Been Sleeping Here?' and 'All For The Love of Rock and Roll'), and who led Tuff Jeff Salen & The Silencers, working with Robert Gordon, Chris Spedding and Ian Hunter. In New York City, USA, following a heart attack Charlie Ryan (93), musician and songwriter ('Hot Rod Lincoln'), who led Charlie Ryan And The Livingston Brothers and Charlie Ryan And The Timberline Riders Minnesota Rock & Country Hall Of Fame Inductee, Rockabilly Hall Of Fame Inductee. In Spokane, Washington, USA, of heart failure Teo Macero (73), producer, composer and saxophonist who worked with Charles Mingus, Teddy Charles, Robert Palmer, The Lounge Lizards, Vernon Reid, D.J. Logic, The Sandole Brothers, Third Stream and Miles Davis and also at Columbia Records with Dave Brubeck, J. J. Johnson, Mahalia Jackson, Johnny Mathis and Thelonious Monk. In Riverhead, New York, USA, following a long illness. Robert C (Bob) Bull (62), lyricist and one half (with melody writer John King) of The Two Old Crocks, whose CD received airplay worldwide, and raised money for the Motability Charity. In Cardiff, Wales, following a long illness Rod Allen (63), singer, songwriter, bassist, and a member of The Cliftones who became The Fortunes ('You've Got Your Troubles', 'Caroline',  'Here It Comes Again', 'Freedom Come, Freedom Go', 'Storm In A Teacup' and 'Here Comes That Rainy Day Feeling'). In Coventry, UK, of liver cancer Mort Garson (84), composer, arranger and accompanist who co-wrote Ruby And The Romantics' 'Our Day Will Come' and worked with Mel Torme, The Lettermen, The Sandpipers, The Sugar Shoppe, The Hollyridge Strings, The Sunset Strings, Doris Day, Glenn Yarborough and Glen Campbell. In San Francisco, UK, of renal failure Cy Leslie (86), founder of Pickwick  Records and a Vice Chairman of The Songwriters Hall Of  Fame. In Roslyn, New York, of heart failure John Stewart (69), singer and songwriter (The Monkees 'Daydream Believer') who led Johnny Stewart And The Furies ('Rockin' Anna') as well as working with The Woodsmen, The Cumberland Three and The Kingston Trio. In San Diego, California, USA, of heart failure Mike Smith (65), singer, keyboardist, songwriter and producer, who led Mike Smith's Rock Engine, and was a member of The Dave Clark Five ('Glad All Over' and 'Catch Us If You Can') as well as being a Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Inductee. In London, UK, of pneumonia Norman Smith better known as Hurricane Smith (85), musician, producer and songwriter, who was the engineer for all of The Beatles recordings until 1965, before going on to produce Pink Floyd and The Pretty Things. In the 1970s, at the age of 50, he set out to become a recording star in his own right, and scored Top 10 hits including 'Don't Let It Die' and 'Oh Babe What Would You Say?' In London, UK, of heart failure Bobby Lee Trammell (68), singer, guitarist and songwriter (he did, 'Arkansas Twist' and 'You Mostest Girl') and a member of the Arkansas House of Representatives. In Jonesboro, Arkansas, USA. Following a heart attack. Songwriter Obituaries 2007 Lew Spence (88), songwriter who penned such hits as 'So Long My Love' and 'Nice 'n Easy' and whose songs have been recorded by Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Bobby Short, Peggy Lee, Nat King Cole, Johnny Mathis, Bing Crosby, Billy Eckstine and Dinah Shore. In Los Angeles, California, USA, of heart failure. Lee Hazlewood (78), singer, songwriter and producer ('Trouble Is A Lonesome Town' and 'Six Feet Of Chain'), whose songs have been recorded by Sanford Clark ('The Fool'), Nancy Sinatra ('These Boots Are Made For Walking'), Duane Eddy, Dean Martin ('Houston'), Primal Scream, Nick Cave, Harry Nilsson, The Astronauts and Megadeth. International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member. In Henderson, Nevada, USA, of renal cancer Sheriff Tex Davis (93), songwriter, manager and promoter who co-wrote Gene Vincent's 'Be-Bop-A-Lula' and worked at Monument Records promoting Dolly Parton, Kris Kristofferson and Jeannie Seely.  In Nashville, Tennessee, USA, of heart failure Ronnie Hazlehurst (79), composer and musician who wrote music for such classic TV shows as 'Are You Being Served?', 'Some Mothers Do 'Ave 'Em', and 'Three Up, Two Down'. In St Peter Port, Guernsey, Channel Islands, following a heart bypass Porter Wagoner (80), singer, guitarist and songwriter who wrote or co-wrote, 'Green Green Grass Of Home', 'Carroll County Accident' and 'Skid Row Joe', as well as working with Dolly Parton and hosting 'The Porter Wagoner Show'. Member of the Grand Ole Opry. Country Music Hall Of Fame Inductee. In Nashville, Tennessee, USA, of lung cancer Ralph Kessler (88), composer, trumpeter and music arranger for TVs 'Arthur Godfrey & Friends' as well as writing music for 'Murder She Wrote', 'Quincy', 'Hawaii Five-O', 'Streets Of San Francisco' and 'Barnaby Jones . In the Bronx, New York City, USA, of heart failure Tom Dawes (64), singer, songwriter and a member of The Rhondells which became The Cyrkle ('Red Rubber Ball' and 'Turn-Down Day'), who also  wrote advertising jingles. In New York, USA, following a stroke during carotid artery surgery Hy Zaret (100), lyricist who co-wrote the classic 'Unchained Melody', and whose songs have been recorded by Jimmy Dorsey, Lena Horne, The Andrews Sisters, Vaughn Monroe, Guy Lombardo, The Righteous Brothers, They Might Be Giants, U2 and Elvis Presley. In Westport, Connecticut, USA, of heart failure Glenn Sutton (70), songwriter and producer who co-wrote 'Almost Persuaded' and 'I Don't Wanna Play House', and worked with Billy Sherrill. Former husband of singer, Lynn Anderson. Nashville Songwriters Hall Of Fame Inductee. International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member. In Nashville, Tennessee, USA, following a heart attack Carson Whitsett (62), songwriter who worked with The Imperial Show Band, Eric  Mercury, Paul Simon, Z.Z. Hill, Bobby 'Blue' Bland, Kathy Mattea and a new line-up of The MGs ('Sugar Cane'), and who wrote and co-wrote  songs for Etta James, Johnnie Taylor, Irma Thomas, Joe Louis Walker,  Johnny Adams, Lorrie Morgan and John Anderson. In Nashville, Tennessee, USA, of brain cancer Ben Weisman (86), affectionately nicknamed by Elvis Presley as 'The Mad Professor', who wrote and co-wrote music for Barbra Streisand ('Love In The Afternoon'), Johnny Mathis ('When I Am with You'), Bobby Vee, The Beatles and Elvis Presley ('Follow That Dream' and 'Fame And Fortune'). International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member. In Los Angeles, California, USA, of complications from Alzheimer's disease and a stroke Freddie Scott (74), singer  and songwriter ('Hey, Girl', 'Are You Lonely For Me Baby' and 'What Do I See In The Girl') as well as being a member of Sally Jones & The  Gospel Keyes and The Swanee Quintet Juniors ('Far Away  Places'). In Jamacia, Queens, New York, of heart failure Will Schaefer (79), who composed or conducted music for TV's 'The Wonderful World Of Disney', 'I Dream Of Jeannie', 'Hogan's Heroes', 'The Flying Nun', 'The Phil Silvers Show' and 'Buck Rogers In The 25th Century' as well as being an arranger for Buddy Rich and Count Basie. In Palm Desert, California, USA, of cancer Hank Medress (69), singer, songwriterm producer and member of the The Tokens ('The Lion Sleeps Tonight' and 'Tonight I Fell In  Love'), before going on to  produce The Happenings, Melissa Manchester, Frankie Valli, The Chiffons ('He's So Fine'), Dawn ('Candida' and 'Knock Three  Times') , Tony Orlando And Dawn ('Tie A Yellow Ribbon (On The Old Oak  Tree)') and Buster Poindexter ('Hot Hot Hot'). A Vocal Group Hall Of Fame Inductee. In Manhattan, New York, USA, of lung cancer Scott Mateer (46), songwriter, DJ and producer whi co-wrote Lorrie Morgan's, 'Dear Me'. In Flowood, Mississippi, USA, of heart failure Carlos Alberto Ferreira Braga (99), songwriter and singer whose songs include 'Copacabana' and 'Yes, Nos Temos Bananas'. In Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, of heart failure Del Reeves (75), country singer and songwriter who scored with such songs as 'The Girl On The Billboard' and 'Looking At The World Through A Windshield') and who Worked with Jim Lauderdale ('Diesel, Diesel, Diesel'), Bobby Goldsboro and Penny DeHaven. In Centerville, Indiana, USA, of emphysema Jerry Hayes (61), guitarist, drummer, singer and songwriter who led Jerry Hayes And The Wabash Cannon Band and wrote 'Who's Cheatin' Who' and Charlie Rich's 'Rollin' With The Flow'. In Memphis, Tennessee, USA, of heart failure Jimmy Campbell (63), singer, guitarist and songwriter whose songs include 'When I Cross Your Path'. He was a member of The Panthers, The Kirkbys ('It's A Crime' and 'Don't You Want Me No More'), 23rd Turnoff ('Michaelangelo') and Rockin' Horse, and his songs have been recorded by Billy Fury ('That's Right That's Me'), The Swinging Blue Jeans ('Keep Me Warm Til The Sun Shines') and The Merseys ('Penny In My Pocket'). In Liverpool, UK, of heart failure Ray Evans (92), songwriter who wrote such classics as 'Que Sera Sera', 'Mona Lisa',  'Buttons and Bows', 'Tammy' and 'Silver Bells'.  along with the themes for TV's 'Bonanza' and 'Mr. Ed')  as well as collaborating with Jay Livingston, Henry Mancini, Max Steiner, and Victor Young. In Los Angeles, USA, of heart failure Dickie Thompson (90), guitarist and songwriter whose first song, 'Thirteen Women And One Man' was  covered by Bill Haley And The Comets. Thomson recorded for  Signature, Regal, Herald and Decca Records and worked  for Jackie Wilson and Don Ho. In Tucson, Arizona, USA, following a stroke Laura Brooke (14), singer-songwriter whose first album 'Right Place, Wrong Time' was due to be released this week. In Charlotte County. Florida, USA, following a motoring accident Songwriter Obituaries 2006 Johnny Average (born Mick Hodgkinson), (61), British singer, songwriter, guitarist and pianist who led Johnny Average And The Falcons and The Johnny Average Band ('Ch Ch Cherie' and 'Gotta Go Home') and who worked or wrote with Ian Kimmet, Mick Ronson, Meatloaf, Brian Briggs, Billy J. Kramer, Jerry Dorsey, Terry Dactyl And The Dinosaurs and Brett Marvin & The Thunderbolts. In Kingston, New York, USA, of cancer Marijohn Wilkin (86), the 'Den Mother of Music Row', singer and songwriter of such classics as 'The Long Black Veil' and 'One Day At A Time'. She led The Marijohn Singers. and worked with Red Foley, The Jordanaires and the Anita Kerr Singers. Her songs have been recorded by Johnny Cash, The Beatles, Jimmy Dean, Patsy Cline, Mitchell Torok, Johnny Horton, Wanda Jackson, Marilyn Sellars, Stonewall Jackson, Joan Baez, The Band, Webb Pierce, Eddie Cochran, Brenda Lee, Mel Tillis, Cowboy Copas, The Kingston Trio, Burl Ives, Eddie Cochran and Rod Stewart. She was the mother of guitarist Buck 'Ronny' Wilkins. Nashville Songwriters Hall Of Fame Inductee. International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member. In Kemp, Texas, USA, following a long illness Patricia Muller (54), singer, songwriter and musician, whose songs include 'Captured By The Net'. In Dinnington, Sheffield, UK, of cancer Betty Comden (89), lyricist of such hits as 'New York, New York' and 'The Party's Over', and who collaborated with Adolph Green, Leonard Bernstein, Cy Coleman, Jule Styne and Andre Previn. International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member. In New York, USA of heart failure Malcolm Arnold (84), composer of music for 132 films, including 'The Bridge On The River Kwai' and 'Hobson's Choice'. International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member. In London, UK, of heart failure Buddy Killen (73), publisher, songwriter, producer and session musician  who wrote, The Little Dippers' 'Forever' and Conway Twitty's 'I May Never Get To Heaven' as well as helping launch the careers of Dolly Parton and Bill Anderson while producing Jerry Lee Lewis, Joe Tex, George Jones, Dottie West, Carol Channing and Fats Domino. International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member. In Nashville, Tennessee, USA, of liver and pancreatic cancer Paul Mauriat (81), orchestra leader and songwriter of such hits as 'Love Is Blue' and 'I Will Follow Him' as well as many songs for Mireille Mathieu, Charles Aznavour, Melina Mercouri, Leo Ferre and Leny Escudero. In Perpignan, France, of heart failure Jack Palance (87), actor, singer and songwriter whose songs include 'The Meanest Guy That Ever Lived' and 'Love Can Only Mean You'. He also appeared in the films 'The City Slickers', 'Shane' and 'Sudden Fear' and hosted TV's 'Ripley's Believe It Or Not'. In Hazle Township, Pennsylvania, USA, of heart failure Steve Benbow (75), guitarist, singer and music director who led The Steve Benbow Folk Four, working with Dave Kier's Jazz Band, The Benbow Crew, The Chas McDevitt Skiffle Group, The Brady Boys, Spike Milligan, The Strawberry Hill Boys and The Sonny Stewart Skiffle Kings. In London, UK. of heart failure John W. Peterson (85), songwriter of more than one thousand songs, including 'It Took A Miracle' and 'Over The Sunset Mountains' as well as being president of Singspiration, a sacred music publishing company, and co-founder of Good Life Productions and The John W. Peterson Music Company. In Scottsdale, Arizona, USA, of cancer Stanley Cherry (74), television writer, director, and producer who also wrote music for many of his television projects, such as 'The Dick Van Dyke Show', 'Flipper', 'Gilligan's Island' and 'Peyton Place'. In Studio City, California, USA, of cancer Patrice Holloway (58), sister of Motown artist Brenda Holloway, singer and songwriter ('Love And Desire', 'Ecstasy', and 'You Made Me So Very Happy') as well as being the singing voice of Valerie for TV's 'Josie And The Pussycats'. In Los Angeles, USA, following a heart attack Jackie Rae (84), songwriter of such hits as Eddie Arnold's 'Please Don't Go' and Andy Williams' 'Happy Heart' and whose songs have been recorded by Engelbert Humperdinck and Tony Bennett. In Winnipeg, Canada, of heart failure Freddy Fender (69), singer, songwriter and guitarist ('Wasted Days And Wasted Nights' and 'Before The Next Teardrop Falls'). In Corpus Christi, Texas, USA, of lung cancer Bruno Lauzi (69), singer and songwriter ('Amore Caro, Amore Bello' and 'Onda Su Onda') who worked with Lucio Battisti, Mogol, Edoardo Bennato and Mia Martini. In Peschiera Borromeo, Italy of Parkinson's Disease Walt Harper (80), pianist and composer ('Just The Taste') who led his own bands and was the owner of Walt Harper's Attic which showcased artists such as Mel Torme, Nancy Wilson, Joe Williams, and Maynard Ferguson. In Point Breeze, Massachusetts, USA following a heart attack Nigel Holton (54), composer who wrote music for such films as 'Quake' and 'Only The Strong'./ In Auckland, New Zealad, New Zealand, in an accidental drowning Eddy Medora (61), singer, songwriter and member of The Sunrays ('I Live For The Sun' and 'Andrea'). In Los Angeles, California, USA, following a heart attack Edward Alperson (81), composer and producer who wrote the music scores and songs for such films as 'September Storm', 'I Mobster', 'Courage Of Black Beauty', 'The Restless Breed', 'Mohawk' and 'Rose Of Cimarron'. In Encino, California, USA, of heart failure Freddie Marsden (66), songwriter ('Don't Let The Sun Catch You Crying'), and member of Gerry And The Pacemakers. In Dingle, Liverpool, England, of heart failure Dennis Linde (63), who wrote Elvis Presley's 'Burning Love' and The Dixie Chicks' 'Goodbye Earl'. International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member. In Nashville, Tennessee, USA, of lung disease. Pierre Delanoe (88), composer who wrote more than 5,000 songs including 'Et Maintenant' (What Now My Love) and 'Je t'Appartiens' (Let It Be Me) and who collaborated with Gilbert Becaud. His songs have been recorded by Edith Piaf, Charles Aznavour, The Everly Brothers, Tom Jones, Bob Dylan, Willie Nelson, Nina Simone, Johnny Hallyday, Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra, Barbra Streisand, The Supremes, and The Temptations. International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member. In Poissy, France, of cardiac arrest Marian Grudeff (79), composer, singer and musician who co-wrote the score for the Broadway musical 'Baker Street'. In Toronto, Canada, of heart failure Sam Neely (58), singer, songwriter and guitarist ('Lovin' You Just Crossed My Mind' and 'You Can Have Her') as well  as being a member of Buckle who sang the final song in the final episode of TV's 'MASH'. In Corpus Christi, Texas, USA, following a heart attack Johnny Duncan (68), singer and songwriter ('Sweet Country Woman' and 'She Can Put Her Shoes Under My Bed, Anytime') who worked with Janie Fricke  ('Stranger' and 'Thinkin' Of A Rendezvous'), whose songs have been recorded by Charley Pride and Conway Twitty and who was a cousin of singers Dan Seals and Jimmy Seals. In Fort Worth, Texas, USA, following a heart attack Ian Hamer (74), trumpeter, composer and bandleader, who was a member of the Mrs Wilf Hamer's Band and worked with Carl Barriteau, Oscar Rabin, Vic Lewis, The Kirchin Brothers, Tubby Hayes ('Night In Tunisia'), The Beatles ('Got To Get You Into My Life'), Bing Crosby, Tom Jones, Dusty Springfield, Shirley Bassey, Barbra Streisand, James Last, Matt Munro and, Kenny Wheeler, Eric Delaney, Jack Parnell, John Dankworth, Harry South, Joe Harriott, Mike Gibbs, Barbara Thompson, the Thad Jones-Mel Lewis Band and Ted Heath, as well as working on Top Of The Pops for over 20 years. In Brighton, UK, of cancer Danny Flores (77), singer, saxophonist, guitarist and songwriter, and a member of The 3-D Ranch Boys, The Creshendoes and The Champs ('Tequila' which he wrote). Worked with Dave Burgess and Glen Campbell. In Westminster, California, USA, following a heart attack Maxine Edgington (48), songwriter who co-wrote 'We Laughed' with Billy Bragg. In Dorset, UK, of breast cancer Joseph Stefano (84), composer, lyricist and writer ('One Dream Tells Me' and 'Heartbeat') as well as the off Broadway musical comedy 'It's Your Move' and the screenplay for Alfred Hitchcock's, 'Psycho' along with such shows as 'Eye Of The Cat,' and 'The Kindred'. He was also part owner of TV's 'The Outer Limits'. In Philadelphia, USA, of heart failure Jumpin' Gene Simmons (69), singer and songwriter ('Haunted House' and 'Go On Shoes') who co-wrote 'Indian Outlaw' for Tim McGraw. He worked with The Bill Black Combo and Elvis Presley. In Tupelo, Mississippi, USA, of cancer Earl Heywood (89), songwriter who wrote 'Tales Of The Donnelly Feud' and 'Moonlight On Manitoulin Island' as well as leading The CKNX Barndance Gang while a member of The Serenade Ranch Gang ('Alberta Waltz' and 'Tears Of St. Anne'). In Exeter, Ontario Canada, of heart failure John Wyre (65), composer and percussionist who wrote 'Bernie' and 'First Flower'. He was a member of Nexus and worked with The Toronto Symphony Orchestra, The Kronos Quartet, The Japan Philharmonic, The Lyric Arts Trio and The Canadian Brass. In Toronto, Canada, of heart failure Timothea Beckerman (55), singer and songwriter ('Teenage Prayer') who worked with Dr. John, Johnny Adams, Leon Russell and Walter 'Wolfman' Washington as well as Founding Blue Soul Records. In New York, USA, of hepatitis C John Blackburn (93), songwriter and manager who co-wrote, 'Moonlight In Vermont' and 'Need You' and who, along with his wife, created Selective Records. In Massilon, Ohio, USA, of heart failure Robert Percell Ferguson (77), singer, songwriter and pianist ('Good Lovin'' and 'Rock H-Bomb Rock') who led H. Bomb Ferguson And The Medicine Men as well as being a member of The US Blues Shouters and working with the HoneyDrippers. In Blue Ash, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA of emphysema and cardiopulmonary disease Dottie Burman (65), singer and songwriter ('When The Palm Trees Grow In Central Park' and 'I'm Doin' The Best I Can') as well as the one-woman show, 'Five Shows A Day' and the musical 'I'm In Love With My Computer'. In New York City, USA, of heart failure Joseph Hampson (78), bassist and songwriter ('Talk About Peace'), and a member of The Travellers, working with The Wayfarers, The Phoenix Singers and The North York Concert Orchestra. He was the husband of singer Sharon Hampson (Trostin) of the group Sharon, Lois And Bram. In Toronto, Canada, of lung cancer Michael Colicchio (82), composer, pianist, and arranger who wrote, 'La La Linda' as well as music for TV's 'Rudolph And Frosty's Christmas In July' and for the film 'Brown Eye, Evil Eye'. In Westfall Township, PA, USA, of heart failure. Marti Sharron (56), songwriter and producer who co-wrote The Pointer Sisters' 'Jump For My Love' and Chaka Khan's 'Own The Night', as well as producing Natalie Cole and Anita Baker. Her songs have been recorded by Celine Dion, Ray Charles and Barbra Streisand. In Sherman Oaks, California, USA, of cancer Songwriter Obituaries 2005 Merle Kilgore (71), singer, songwriter, DJ, actor and manager, who wrote Johnny Horton's 'Johnny Reb' and Claude King's 'Wolverton Mountain', co-writing with June Carter Cash,  Johnny Cash's 'Ring Of Fire', as well as managing Hank Williams Jr., and working with his father, Hank Williams Sr. International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member. In Mexico City, Mexico, of complications from treatment for cancer Willie Hutch (60), singer, and producer ('Love Has Put Me Down' and 'Give Me Some Of That Good Old Love') and songwriter ('I'll Be There'), who was a member of The Ambassadors while also producing  Michael Jackson, The 5th Dimension, The Commodores and Smokey Robinson. In Duncanville, Texas, USA of cancer Derrill Bodley (59), writer of such pieces 'The Dream Lives On!' and Dave Brubeck's, 'Steps To Peace'. A music professor and peace activist, his daughter Deora had died on Flight 93 during the 9/11 attacks. Near Los Angeles, California, USA, in a motorcycle accident Richard Jameson Bell Jr (58), composer, arranger and pianist who worked with Janis Joplin. In Chester, New Hampshire, USA, of heart failure Sonny Fisher (74), singer, guitarist and songwriter ('Rockin' Daddy' and 'Hold Me Baby') who worked with Los Solitarios. In Houston, Texas, USA, following a heart attack Kay Arnold (79),  singer and songwriter ('Cross The Brazos At Waco' and 'Paint A Smile On Me' with Merle Kilgore) who worked with her husband, Marvin 'Buster' Doss and with Gary Walker. In Nashville, Tennessee, USA, of heart failure David Townsend (50), son of singer and songwriter Ed Townsend, singer, songwriter, producer and a member of Surface ('Closer Than Friends' and 'Shower Me With Your Love') who worked with Sister Sledge, The Isley Brothers, Jermaine Jackson, The New Edition and Aretha Franklin. In Northbridge, California, USA, of unknown causes Rick Rhode (54), songwriter and composer, and a member of Wonder, who collaborated with his wife Vivian Rhodes ('Let's Be Lovers Again' and 'Fasten Your Seat Belts') as well as composing music for TV's 'The Guiding Light', 'Another World, 'Saturday Night Live and 'Friends.'  In Oak Park, California, USA, of brain cancer John Finch (84), songwriter and owner of The Finch Record Publishing Co, which recorded H-Bomb Ferguson ('She Don't Want Me'), Albert Washington, The Impossibles, The Cruisers, The  Five Chances and The Al Franklin Combo. In Washington, Georgia, USA, of heart failure Al Frazier (75), singer and songwriter, who was a member of The Lamplighters, and The Rivingtons ('Papa-Oom-Mow-Mow' and 'The Bird's The Word') as well as working with Paul Anka and Duane Eddy. In Las Vegas, Nevada, USA of diabetic complications Joe Jones (79), singer, pianist, arranger and songwriter whose biggest hit was the US Number 1 'You Talk Too Much' and who worked with B B King. In Los Angeles, USA, of complications from quadruple bypass surgery  Baker Knight (72), singer and songwriter, who wrote hits for such stars as Ricky Nelson ('Lonesome Town'), Paul McCartney, Dean Martin ('That Old Time Feelin'), Elvis Presley ('The Wonder Of You'), Frank Sinatra, Perry Como, Mickey Gilley, Sammy Davis Jr. and Jerry Lee Lewis. In Birmingham  Alabama, USA, of heart failure Link Wray (76), guitarist and songwriter ('Rumble' and 'Rawhide'), and a member of Link Wray And The Ray-Men who worked with Robert Gordon and whose music can be heard in the films, 'Pulp Fiction' and 'Independence Day'. In Copenhagen, Denmark, following a heart attack Romano Mussolini (75), pianist, bandleader and jazz composer, who led the Romano Mussolini All Stars and worked with Helen Merrill, Tony Scott and Chet Baker. He was the son of Italian dictator Benito Mussolini. In Rome, Italy, following a heart attack Gene McFadden (57), singer, songwriter and producer who was a member of The Epsilons ('The Echo') and half of the duo McFadden & Whitehead ('Ain't No Stopping Us Now' and 'I've Been Pushed Aside') who changed their name to Talk Of The Town.  He wrote songs for The O'Jays ('Backstabbers'), Archie Bell & The Drells ('Let's Groove') and Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes ('Wake Up Everybody') and worked with Gloria Gaynor, Melba Moore, Willie Collins and Freddie Jackson. In Philadelphia, USA, of cancer Johnny Bienstock (84), publisher and music executive who worked at Big Top, Atlantic, Cotillion and RSO Records, as well as owning Moss Rose Music and acting as general manager for E.B. Mark Music Company, working with Ernest Tubb, Eddy Arnold, Hank Snow, Elvis Presley, The Bee Gees, Eric Clapton, Del Shannon, Johnny & The Hurricanes and Meat Loaf. In Naples, Florida, USA, of complications from heart disease and a stroke Sergio Endrigo (72), singer and songwriter ('Io Che Amo Solo Te (I Who Love Only You)') and 'Canzone Per Te (Song For You)'). In Rome, Italy, from lung cancer Fred E. Ahlert (79), founder of the Fred Ahlert Music Group who represented clients such as his father - songwriter Fred E. Ahlert as well as Hal David and John Jacob Loeb. In San Francisco, California, USA, of heart failure Mike Elliott (65), guitarist, producer, engineer and songwriter who worked with the Toronto Symphony, Clark Terry, Doug Kershaw, Les Paul, Chubby Checker, Tennessee Ernie Ford, Brenda Lee, John Davidson, Johnny Cash and many others. In Nashville, Tennessee, USA, of heart failure Marion Skelton (who also worked as Marion Payton) (64), published poet, songwriter and author, who penned over 400 songs, along with almost 200 poems, as well as publishing three books. In Wolverhampton, UK, after a short illness Gene Pitney (65), singer and songwriter ('Only Love Can Break A Heart', '24 Hours From Tulsa' and 'The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance') and half of the duo, Jamie & June with Ginny Arnell. He wrote 'Hello Mary Lou' for Rick Nelson', 'Rubber Ball' for Bobby Vee, and 'He's A Rebel' for The Crystals, working with Phil Spector, The Rolling Stones, George Jones, and Marc Almond ('Something's Gotten Hold Of My Heart'). Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Inductee. International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member. In Cardiff, Wales, UK, of heart failure Buck Owens (76), singer and songwriter who led Buck Owens & His Buckaroos ('Act Naturally' and 'I've Got A Tiger By The Tail') and a member of Bill Woods & The Orange Blossom Playboys and The Schoolhouse Playboys. He co-hosted TV's 'Hee Haw', working with with Tommy Collins, Tommy Sands, Don Rich, Wanda Jackson and Faron Young. Country Music Hall Of Fame Inductee. International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member. In Bakersfield, California, USA, of heart failure Cindy Walker (87), songwriter whose work was recorded by such stars as Bob Wills ('Bubbles In My Beer'), Roy Orbison ('Dream Baby (How Long Must I Dream)'), Eddy Arnold ('Take Me In Your Arms And Hold Me'), Hank Snow ('The Gold Rush Is Over'), George Morgan, Gene Autry, Jim Reeves ('Distant Drums'), Jerry Wallace, Ray Charles, Mickey Gilley, Ricky Skaggs, Merle Haggard, Glen Campbell, Michael Nesmith, Webb Pierce and Ernest Tubb ('Warm Red Wine'). Country Music Hall Of Fame Inductee. International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member. In Mexia, Texas, USA, of heart failure David Blume (74), keyboardist, arranger and composer who co-wrote The Cyrkle's 'Turn Down Day' and led The Dave Blume Trio, working with his wife, singer Carolyn Hester. In Sylmar, California, USA following a stroke John Harris (63), composer who penned music for TV's 'M*A*S*H' and was a music editor for the movies, 'History Of The World: Part 1', 'Johnny Dangerously' and 'Nine To Five'. In Woodland Hills, California, USA, following a heart attack Hamilton Camp (72), British born actor, singer and songwriter who wrote 'Pride Of Man' which was covered by Quicksilver Messenger Service and worked with Bob Gibson ('You Can Tell The World' and 'Well, Well, Well'). He also appeared in the films, 'Attack Of The 50 Foot Woman' and 'Heaven'.  In Hancock Park, Los Angeles, California, USA, of cancer  Robert Wright (81), composer and pianist who collaborated with George 'Chet' Forrest on the Broadway musicals Song of Norway and Grand Hotel and worked with Helen Morgan. In Miami, Florida, USA, of heart failure Eugene Record (65), singer and songwriter ('Laying Beside You'), who was a member of The Chanteurs ('You Did That To Me') and The Hi-Lites who changed their name to The Chi-Lites ('Oh Girl' and 'Have You Seen Her') and who worked with Jackie Wilson and C-Nario. In Chicago, USA, of cancer Fred Smith (67), songwriter and producer who produced and co-wrote songs for The Olympics ('Western Movies'), Bob And Earl ('Harlem Shuffle') and The Watts 103rd Street Rhythm Band, and who also worked with Cliff Goldsmith. In Los Angeles, USA, following a heart attack Little Milton Campbell (71), song of legendary blues performer Big Milton, blues singer, guitarist and songwriter ('The Blues Is Alright', 'We're Gonna Make It' and 'Your Wife Is Cheating On Us'), who worked with Sonny Boy Williamson II and Fontella Bass. In Inverness, Mississippi, USA, following a stroke Spud Murphy (96), composer, arranger, bandleader and teacher, who created or arranged music for The Three Stooges, The Honey Boys, Glen Gray and the Casa Loma Orchestra and Benny Goodman, as well as composing music for over 50 films. In Los Angeles, California, USA, following complications from surgery Detroit Junior (74), pianist and songwriter ('Money Tree' and 'Too Poor'), who worked with Howlin' Wolf and whose songs were recorded by such singers as Koko Taylor. In Chicago, USA, of heart failure Herta Ware (88), folk singer, songwriter and actress who worked with  Woody Guthrie and acted in  Broadway's The Cradle Will Rock,  the films, Cocoon and Species and TV's Star Trek: The Next Generation and Amazing Stories. In Topanga, USA, of heart failure Sergio Endrigo (72), singer and songwriter ('Io Che Amo Solo Te (I Who Love Only You)' and 'Canzone Per Te (Song For You)') who collaborated with Vinicius de Moraes and  Toquinho. In Rome, Italy, of lung cancer Joel Hirschhorn (67), songwriter, singer and pianist who collaborated with Al Kasha, writing music for TV's Knots Landing and the songs, 'The Morning After' for the film 'The Poseidon Adventure', 'I'd Like To Be You For A Day' for the film 'Freaky Friday', 'We May Never Love Like This Again' for the film 'The Towering Inferno', the original score for 'Pete's Dragon' plus songs for Elvis Presley and Charles Aznavour. In Thousand Oaks, California, USA, following a heart attack. Jack Segal (86), songwriter and lyricist who penned 'Scarlet Ribbons' and co-wrote 'When Sunny Gets Blue', and whose songs have been recorded by Tony Bennett, Dinah Shore, Harry Belafonte, Perry Como and Frank Sinatra. In Tarzana, Calufornia, USA, of heart failure Chris Curtis (63), drummer, singer and songwriter, and a former member of The Searchers ('Needles And Pins' and 'Love Potion Number 9'), The Flowerpot Men ('Let's Go To San Francisco'), Roundabout who later became Deep Purple, and The Merseycats, and who later produced Paul and Barry Ryan. In Oldham, UK, of cancer Hugh Davies (61), electronic music composer, musicologist and instrument maker, who was a member of Gentle Fire and worked with The Music Improvisation Company, Han Bennink and Hans-Karsten Raecke. In London, of cancer Sammi Smith (61), singer and songwriter ('Help Me Make It Through The Night' and 'So Long Charlie Brown, Don't Look For Me Around'). In Oklahoma City, USA, of emphysema Bill Potts (75), jazz pianist, composer and arranger who worked with Woody Herman, Bobby Vinton, Paul Anka, Quincy Jones, Buddy Rich and Ella Fitzgerald. In Plantation, Florida, USA, of cardiac arrest Jeremy Hare (33), singer and songwriter ('In The Morning Sun'). In Wilmington, Delaware, USA, following a fall from the fourth floor of a car park Jimmy Griffin (61), singer-songwriter who wrote Conway Twitty's 'Who's Gonna Know', Restless Heart's 'You Can Depend On Me' and co-wrote The Carpenters' 'For All We Know', as well as being a founding member of Bread ('Everything I Own' and 'Baby I'm A Wanting You'), The Remingtons ('A Long Time Ago' and 'Wall Around Her Heart') and Black Tie ('Learning The Game') and working with Lynn Bryant ('Can We Still Be Friends') and Terry Sylvester. In Franklin, Tennessee, of complications from cancer William Pippin (45), gospel singer and songwriter ('His Second Time Around' and 'I'll See You Soon') and a founding member of The Chosen who also worked with Segos And Naomi and Jerry And The Singing Goffs. In Columbus, Georgia, USA, following a heart attack Bezerra da Silva (77), singer, musician and composer ('Hey Cat - Give Us A Break' and 'Somebody Kidnapped My Mother-In-Law'). In Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, of pulmonary emphysema Uzi Hitman (52), songwriter and performer ('Adon Olam', Noladati Lashalom', 'Ratziti Sheteda' and 'Kan'), who reached the third place at the 1991 Eurovision Song Contest. In Tel Aviv, Israel, following a heart attack Bill Spivery (73), songwriter of such songs as 'Operator' which became popular with the help of The Manhattan Transfer. In Cleveland, USA, following a heart attack Rob Heaton (43), drummer, instrumentalist, songwriter and a member of New Model Army ('Poison Street' and 'Here Comes The War'). In Bradford, West Yorkshire, UK, of pancreatic cancer Pete Jolly (72), pianist and composer ('Little Bird'), who led The Pete Jolly Trio and worked with Benny Carter, Chet Baker, Herb Geller, Barney Kessel and The Shorty Rogers Giants. In Pasadena, California, USA, of bone marrow cancer Ernie Garven (94), musician, vocalist and songwriter, who composed the music for such jingles as 'From The Land Of Sky Blue Waters' (Hamm's Beer) as well as jingles for Wheaties, Dairy Queen and Snickers/Mars Bars, and who was a member of The Three Tones, The Red River Gang and Ernie And Hal The Harmony Pals. In Los Angeles, of cardiopulmonary arrest Billy Scott (81), ukulele and banjolele player, singer and songwriter, ('He's Only Singing For One'), who worked with The Saturated Seven. In Sunderland, UK, of heart failure Michel Colombier (65), jazz pianist and composer who scored over than 100 movies and television shows  including, 'White Nights', 'Against All Odds', 'Swept Away', 'New Jack City', 'Purple Rain' and 'Tales From The Crypt', and who became known as the godfather of French fusion. In Santa Monica, California, USA, of cancer Cy Coleman (75), musician and composer ('Witchcraft' and 'The Best Is Yet To Come'), who led The Cy Coleman Trio and wrote for the musicals, 'Sweet Charity' and 'City of Angels', working with lyricists Carolyn Leigh and Dorothy Fields. International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member. In New York, of heart failure George Canseco (70), songwriter who penned over 160 songs, including 'I Am A Filipino', commissioned by Imelda Marcos. In Manila, Philippines, of complications from liver disease and lung cancer Nadine Renee (32), singer and songwriter ('Be A Better Man' and 'Say You'll Stay') and a member of Planet Soul ('Set U Free'). In New York, following complications during childbirth Richard Henry (83), blues musician and composer. In Beaufort, North Carolina, USA, of heart failure Delsey McKay (80), pianist and songwriter ('Hold Her Hand A Little Higher' and 'Sing American Sing'). In New York, USA, of cancer John Marabuto (79), jazz arranger and composer. In El Cerrito, California, USA of heart failure. Lee Mallory (60), guitarist and songwriter who was a member of Millennium and Saggitarius and worked with The Association, co-writing their hits 'Better Times' and 'Just About The Same'. In San Francisco, California, USA, of liver cancer Derrick Plourde (34), drummer and songwriter who was a member of Lagwagon, Bad Astronauts, RKL and The Ataris and also worked with The Mad Caddies, Jaws, and Threatened Hope. In Goleta City, California, USA, of self-inflicted gunshot wounds Duke McFadden (48), songwriter and pianist, and an original member of 707, who co-wrote 'I Could Be Good For You'. In Los Angeles, California, USA, of natural causes Wally Tax (57), singer, songwriter, guitarist, and a member of The Outsiders ('Lying All The Time' and 'Summer Is Here'), Tax Free ('Yiva' and 'My Lady Truth') and who worked with John Cale, Bamboule, George Cash, Watermen and The Mustangs. In Amsterdam, Holland, of cancer Johnnie Johnson (81), one of the founding fathers of rock and roll, pianist and composer ('Son's Dream' and 'Movin' Out') who led The Johnnie Johnson Trio and Johnnie Johnson And The Kentucky Headhunters ('That'll Work' and 'She's Got To Have It') and who also worked with Chuck Berry ('Roll Over Beethoven' and 'No Particular Place To Go'), Keith Richards, Eric Clapton, John Lee Hooker and Bo Diddley. In St Louis, Missouri, USA, of heart failure Steve Jablecki (59), singer, guitarist and songwriter and a member of Wadsworth Mansion ('Sweet Mary' and 'Michigan Harry Slaughter') and Slingshot. In Pawtucket, Rhode Island, USA, of heart failure John Fred Gourrier (64), singer and songwriter who led the John Fred And The Playboys ('Shirley') and John Fred & His Playboy Band ('Judy in Disguise (With Glasses)' and 'Hey, Hey Bunny'). In New Orleans, Louisiana, USA, of cancer Bob Gardiner (54), writer and musician who performed original satiric songs and who worked with Mason Williams for two Smothers Brothers specials. In Grass Valley, California, USA, by suicide Robert Farnon (87), composer, conductor, trumpeter and arranger who wrote music for more than forty films including 'Spring In Park Lane' and 'Captain Horatio Hornblower' and led The Robert Farnon Orchestra, working with Lynn Fields ('You Can't Be True Dear'), Norman Wisdom, Denny Dennis, Beryl Davis, Reggie Goff, Scotty McHarg, Dick James,  Donald Peers, The CBC Orchestra, The Johnston Brothers, Sarah Vaughan, Tony Bennett, Frank Sinatra and Jose Carreras. International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member. In Guernsey, Channel Islands, following a heart attack Johnny Moore (65), singer and songwriter ('Just My Way Of Loving You' and 'Tears Of Joy'). In Los Angeles, of heart failure    George Butler (69), singer, songwriter and harmonica player ('Gravy Child' and 'Everybody Got A Mojo'), who worked with Big Walter Horton, Jimmy Rogers, Sammy Lawhorn, Pinetop Perkins, Sam Lay, Aaron Burton, Mighty Joe Young, Big Walter Horton and Willie Dixon. In Windsor, Ontario, Canada of pulmonary embolism Martin Denny (94), jazz musician and composer whose hits include 'Quiet Village' and who worked with Arthur Lyman. In Hawaii Kai, Hawaii, USA, of heart failure Chris LeDoux (57), guitarist, singer-songwriter ( 'Even Cowboys Like A Little Rock And Roll' and 'Riding For A Fall') who worked with with Garth Brooks ('Whatcha Gonna Do With A Cowboy'), Toby Keith ('Copenhagen') and Jon Bon Jovi ('Bang A Drum'). In Nashville, Tennessee, USA of liver cancer Marvin Jenkins (72), songwriter  who wrote, 'Big City' which has been recorded by Cannonball Adderley, Shirley Horn and Les McCann and whoworked with The Barney Kessel Trio, Marvin Gaye ('Let's Get It On') and Della Reese. In Aultman, Ohio, USA of heart failure Chris Cox (58), singer, songwriter and guitarist who worked with Suzanne Paris, Bobby Mason, Dan Forde, Richard Hathaway, Brian DeWolf, Jason Perrin, Tai Vare, Bobby Yang, Dave Johnson, Buddy Miles and Khristie Krantz. In New York, or natural causes Danny Joe Brown (54), singer, songwriter and member of Molly Hatchet ('Flirtin' With Disaster' and 'Whiskey Man'), and who led Danny Joe Brown & The Danny Joe Brown Band ('The Alamo' and 'Sundance'). In Davie, Florida, USA, of pneumonia Justin Hinds (63), singer and songwriter ('Carry Go Bring Come' and 'Jump Out The Frying Pan') and who was a member of The Dominoes and who worked with The Jamaica All Stars. In Steertown, St Anns, Jamaica of lung cancer Jakson Spires (53), drummer, singer and songwriter and a member of Blackfoot ('Highway Song' and 'Fly Away') and The Southern Rock All-Stars and who worked with Benny Mardones, Phil Lynott, Willie Dixon and Albert King. In Fort Pierce, Florida, USA, following a brain aneurysm Ken Hunt (34), bassist, drummer, singer, songwriter, journalist, poet and a member of Toast, Harvey Wallbanger, Self-Help Seminar, Unplanned Pregnancy and Mayor Daley. In Chicago, Illinois, USA, following an accident Jack Keller (68), songwriter who wrote Chordettes' 'Just Between You and Me', Connie Francis' 'Everybody's Somebody's Fool', Jimmy Clanton's 'Venus In Blue Jeans' and Bobby Vee's 'Run To Him', along with the theme songs for TV's 'Bewitched' and 'Gidget'. Keller also produced The Monkees and worked with Howard Greenfield and Ernie Sheldon. International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member. In Nashville, Tennessee, USA, of leukaemia, Peter Hirsten (69), Global Music Group founder whose clients include Paul Simon, Rondor Music, ATV Music, Dick James Music, Sting, the Police and the Doors. In London, UK, of heart failure Zuzana Navarova de Tejada (45), singer, composer, record producer and leader of KOA ('Barvy Vsecky' and 'Jako Santidevi'), and Nerez ('Za Poledne', 'Na Vareny Nudli'), as well as working with guitarist Ivan Gutierrez ('Trez' and 'Zelene'), folk singer Karel Plihal and Slavek Janousek. In Prague, Czech Republic, of cancer Darrell Abbott (38), guitarist and songwriter who was formerly with Pantera ('Cemetery Gates' and 'Cowboys From Hell') and Damageplan ('Blink Of An Eye' and 'New Found Power') and worked with Nickleback. The son of country songwriter Jerry Abbott. In Columbus, Ohio, USA, following a shooting on stage Jackson Mac Low (82), poet, composer and performance artist who as a member of Fluxus and worked with his wife, Anne Tardos and with John Cage. In Manhattan, New York, USA, of complications following a stroke Harry Roesli (53), guitarist, composer and singer who founded Depot Kreasi Seni Bandung (DKSB) and The Gang Of Harry Roesli. In West Jakarta, Indonesia, of heart disease Margaret Fay Shaw (101), pianist, folkologist and photographer, who wrote down and annotated folk songs of South Uist and the stories behind them using her knowledge of Scottish Gaelic, later publishing the book 'Folksongs And Folklore Of South Uist'. In Fort William, Scotland, of heart failure Robert Hoyt (21), drummer, songwriter and member of Clarion. Killed while serving with the US military in Iraq Bert Reid (48), singer, saxophonist, songwriter, producer and a member of The Crown Heights Affair ('Every Beat Of My Heart' and 'Dreaming A Dream') who also worked with Unlimited Touch, Raw Silk and Barbara Tucker. In New York, USA, of lung cancer Johnnie Carl (57), pianist, composer, conductor and arranger who worked With Celine Dion, John Tesh and Michael Crawford. In Los Angeles, California, USA, from a self-inflicted gunshot wound Mack Vickery (69), singer, songwriter (Jerry Lee Lewis's 'Rockin' My Life Away' and George Strait's 'The Fireman'). Alabama Music Hall Of Fame Inductee. In Nashville, Tennessee, USA, following a heart attack Wally Varner (78), pianist and songwriter ('Crown Him King' and 'Bell Of Joy Keep Ringing') who worked with The Blackwood Brothers Quartet, was  co-owner of Varner Music Inc and a Gospel Music Association Hall Of Fame Inductee. In Memphis, Tennessee, USA, of bone disease Gary Lupico (49), guitarist, composer, songwriter and co-owner of The Interzone Recording Studio. In Dallas, Texas, USA, of an aneurysm Ray Peterson (70), singer and songwriter known as the 'Golden Voice of Rock 'n' Roll', whose hits include 'The Wonder of You', 'Tell Laura I Love Her' and 'Corrina, Corrina'. He also founded Dunes Records, and worked with Phil Spector during his early years in New York. In Smyrna, Georgia, USA, of  cancer        Consuelo Velazquez (89), singer, composer and pianist whose songs include 'Besame Mucho (Kiss Me A Lot)' and 'No Me Pides Nunca'. In Mexico City, Mexico, of respiratory problems        Johnny Carson (79), comedian and occasional songwriter who co-wrote with Paul Anka 'Johnny's Theme' which opened TV's 'The Tonight Show' that Johnny hosted for thirty years. In Los Angeles, USA, of emphysema        Bill Simmons (80), songwriter, pianist and guitarist whose songs include 'Mississippi' and who was a member of The Light Crust Doughboys, The Texas Cowboy Hall Of Fame, The Texas Western Swing Hall Of Fame, The Rockabilly Hall Of Fame and The International Country Gospel Hall Of Fame. In Irving, Texas, of oesophageal cancer        Paul Nash (56), jazz composer and guitarist who wrote, 'Still Sounds Run Deep' and led The Paul Nash Ensemble as well as co-founding The Bay Area Jazz Composers Orchestra. In New York City, USA of a brain tumour        Franco Mannino (81), composer and pianist who penned more than 600 musical compositions and more than 100 film scores for such movies as 'I, Vampiri', 'Beat The Devil' and 'Death In Venice'. In Los Angeles of complications following surgery        Rachel Bissex (49), folk singer, songwriter and guitarist ('Dancing With My Mother' and 'Drive All Night'). In Boston, USA, of cancer        Larry Kingston (64), songwriter whose work includes 'Good Morning Loving', 'It's Not Over If I'm Not Over You' and 'Thank God And Greyhound' and who wrote songs for Porter Waggoner, George Jones, Johnny Paycheck, Reba McEntire, Roy Clark, Don Williams, Ringo Starr, Vern Gosdin, Jerry Lee Lewis and Mark Chesnutt. In Nashville, Tennessee, USA following a heart attack        Rusty McHugh (57), country singer, songwriter and musician who led The Rusty McHugh Band and was a member of The Fish Camp Band as well as being half the duo of Rusty McHugh & Mike Fincher ('She Put A Louisiana Liplock On My Alabama Porkchop' and 'I Always Get Battered When She Gets Fried'). In Pensacola, Florida, USA, following a heart attack        Harry M. Simeone (94), conductor, arranger, composer and pianist whose choral group had hits with, 'The Little Drummer Boy' and 'Do You Hear What I Hear?' as well as working with Fred Waring And His Pennsylvanians, Victor Young and Bing Crosby. In Manhattan, New York City, USA, of heart failure Michael J Comley (62), songwriter whose songs include 'Sunrise To Sunset' and 'The Look Of Hunger'. In Kingswood, Bristol, UK, from cancer Jaime Mendoza-Nava (79), pianist who composed music for Walt Disney's, 'The Mickey Mouse Club' and 'Zorro' and was the music director for United Productions Of America working on the cartoon series 'Mr. Magoo' as well as scoring music for over 200 films including 'Ballad Of A Gunfighter' and 'The Vampire Hookers'. In Woodland Hills, California, USA, of heart failure        Paul Westmoreland (89), songwriter of such songs as 'Detour' which was covered by Dean Martin and Patti Page. In Burney, California, USA, of heart failure    Carson Parks (69), singer and songwriter who penned Frank and Nancy Sinatra's 'Somethin' Stupid' and also wrote 'Cab Driver (Drive By Mary's Place)' and 'Open For Business As Usual' as well as being one half of the duo The Steeltown Two  who worked with The Greenwood Country Singers, The Easy Riders, Carson & Gaile, The Southcoasters and Bud Dashiell & The Kinsmen. He was the brother of the musician and film composer Van Dyke Parks  In St Mary's. Georgia, USA, of kidney failure        Dickson Hughes (82), songwriter who wrote the first musical version of 'Sunset Boulevard'. In Palm Springs, Florida, USA, of heart failure        Obie Benson (68), songwriter who wrote Marvin Gaye's, 'What's Going On' and was co-founder of The Four Aims who later changed their name to The Four Tops. In Detroit, Michigan, USA, of lung cancer        Tom Talbert (80), composer, pianist and arranger who wrote music for TV's 'Serpico' and 'Emergency'. In Los Angeles, California, USA, following a stroke        Derek Hilton (78), composer who wrote music for over 240 TV shows including, 'All Our Yesterdays', 'A Family At War' and 'A Kind Of Loving', as well as the theme tune for the long-running TV soap 'Coronation Street', In Didsbury, near Manchester, UK, of heart failure        Joe Harnell (81), pianist, composer and arranger who worked with The Glenn Miller Air Force Band, Frank Sinatra, Peggy Lee, Shirley MacLaine, Marlene Dietrich, Judy Garland,  Lester Lanin,  Maurice Chevalier, Lena Horne, Pearl Bailey and Beverly Sills as well as composing the music for TV's 'The Incredible Hulk' and 'The Bionic Woman'. In New York City, USA, of heart failure        Eddie Shuler (92), songwriter  who specialised in Zydeco music, and founded Goldband Records, working with Freddy Fender and Cookie & The Cupcakes. In Wrightsboro, Texas, USA, of heart failure. Michael Hensey (55), poet and songwriter. In Claremorris, Co Mayo, Ireland, from cancer        Luther Vandross (52), songwriter and singer who worked with Mariah Carey ('Endless Love'), Roberta Flack, David Bowie, Barbara Streisand, Donna Summer, Dionne Warwick, Quincy Jones, Chaka Khan, Chic,  Janet Jackson ('The Best Things In Life Are Free') and Aretha Franklin. In Edison, New Jersey, USA, following a stroke La Marr Thomas (62). songwriter who co-wrote 'Love Depression' and 'Free' which were recorded by Johnnie Taylor. In New York, USA, of cancer        . Eddie Barclay (84), pianist and founder of Barclay Records who wrote the score for the film 'Bob Le Flambeur' and worked with Quincy Jones as well as recording and promoting such stars as Léo Ferré, Charles Aznavour, Jacques Brel, Blossom Dearie, Claude Nougaro and Mireille Mathieu. In Paris, France, following a heart attack        Keith Miller (58), keyboardist and guitarist who co-wrote Divine's 'You Think You're A Man' as well as being a member of St Louis Union, who had a UK hit with the Beatles' 'Girl' and who also worked with Rod Stewart, Viv Stanshall, Robert Plant, Rick Wakeman, Sniff 'N' The Tears ('Driver's Seat'), The Raymond Froggatt Band, Culture Club, Locomotive, Paul McCartney, The Steve Gibbons Band, Ultravox and Pete Townsend. In Manchester, UK, following a brain haemorrhage        Linda Martinez (29), pianist and composer ('Gunther And I') who also wrote music for the films, 'Catching Kringle' and 'Boy Next Door', and who worked with Laura Karpman. In Los Angeles, California, USA, by suicide        Ben Peters (71), songwriter, singer and musician ('Daytime Friends and Night-time Lovers' and 'Kiss An Angel Good Morning'), whose songs have been recorded by Tammy Wynette, Eddy Arnold, Ray Charles, Freddie Fender, Engelbert Humperdinck, George Jones, Conway Twitty, Brenda Lee, Charley Pride, Jerry Lee Lewis, Barbara Mandrell, Dean Martin, Ronnie Milsap, Lorrie Morgan, Willie Nelson, Loretta Lynn and Kenny Rogers. International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member. In Hollandale, Mississippi, USA, of pneumonia        Oscar Brown Jr (78). singer, songwriter and playwright  whose works include 'The Snake' and 'Signifyin' Monkey'. In Chicago, Illinois, USA, of pneumonia        Jenny Richards (46), singer, guitarist and songwriter who wrote 'Full Moon Drumming'. In Nashville, Tennessee, USA, of cancer Songwriter Obituaries 2004 Ersel Hickey (70), singer songwriter ('Bluebirds Over The Mountain'), whose songs were recorded by the Beachboys, Ritchie Valens and Jackie Wilson. In New York, USA, of cancer Steven Marshall (40), singer-songwriter. In Glasgow, Scotland, following a heart attack Bill Lowery (79), the music publisher responsible for publishing 'Be-Bop-A-Lula', 'I Never Promised You A Rose Garden', 'Games People Play' and 'I Love The Nightlife' among others. In Atlanta, Georgia, USA, of cancer Graeme Kelling (47), songwriter and suitarist, and a member of Deacon Blue ('Fellow Hoodlums' and 'Cover From The Sky'). In Glasgow, Scotland, of pancreatic cancer Auntie Martha (Martha Poepoe Hohu) (87), conductor, composer, arranger, singer and organist. In Honolulu, Hawaii, USA, of heart failure Eamonn McGirr (63), Irish guitarist and singer ('The Bravest' commemorating the bravery of the New York firefighters on 9/11 and 'Up Went Nelson'). In Schenectady, New York, USA, from complications of paralysis Paul Jackson (67), songwriter and a member of  The Vallejos, The Falcons ('My Only Love' and 'Now That It's Over') and The Lyrics ('Come On Home' and 'Why Don't You Stop'). In New York, USA, of heart failure Ken Darby (47), songwriter a member of The Black Irish Band. In Los Angeles, California, USA, following a motorcycle accident Naomi Shemer (74), singer songwriter ('Jerusalem Of Gold' and 'Lu Yehi'), known as the First Lady of Israeli Song. In Tel Aviv, Israel, of heart failure Agnes Cunningham (95), singer and accordionist who wrote, 'Sundown' and co-wrote, 'My Oklahoma Home (It Done Blowed Away)'). She worked with The Almanac Singers, Pete Seeger and Woody Guthrie and was a co-founder of the folk song journal 'Broadside', publishing more than 1,000 songs by artists such as Bob Dylan, Phil Ochs, Janis Ian, Buffy Sainte-Marie, Pete Seeger and Tom Paxton. In New Paltz, New York, USA, of heart failure Tony Audate (44), Haitian singer, guitarist and songwriter. In Dorchester, Massachussets, USA, of cancer Cal Green (69), singer-songwriter and guitarist ('What Makes Your Pretty Head So Hard' and 'Big Leg Woman') who worked with  Hank Ballard & The Midnighters ('Annie Had A Baby' and 'Tore Up Over You'), as well as Little Willie John, Brother Jack McDuff and Lou Rawls. In Lake View, Terrace, California, USA, following an aneurysm Don Rader (66), band leader and songwriter, who led Don Rader And The Five Stars ('Rock & Roll Grandpap' and 'Rockin' The Blues') and Don Rader And The 20th Century Ranch Boys ('Area Code To Heaven' and 'Goodbye, I Hate To See You Go'). In Detroit, Michigan, USA, of heart disease Syreeta Wright (58), singer and songwriter ('Spinnin' and Spinnin'' and 'Your Kiss Is Sweet') who worked with Billy Preston ('With You I'm Born Again'), G. C. Cameron ('Let's Make a Deal'), Michael Bolton, Quincy Jones and Stevie Wonder, to whom she was once married. In Los Angeles, California, USA, of bone cancer Hal Carter (69), manager, agent, producer and songwriter ('Come On And Twist'), who worked with Marty Wilde, Billy Fury, Eddie Cochran, Gene Vincent, The Liverpool Express, Coast To Coast and The Kinks. In London, UK, of cancer  Kevin Coyne (60), singer-songwriter, painter and writer, who released more than forty albums and turned down the opportunity to replace Jim Morrison in the Doors. In Nuremberg, Germany, of complications from lung fibrosis Terry Melcher (62), producer, singer, pianist and songwriter (hits include 'Kokomo' for the Beachboys, and 'Move Over Darling' for his mother, movie star Doris Day), as well as being half of the duo, Bruce & Terry ('Custom Machine' and 'Summer Means Fun') and a member of The Rip Chords ('Hey, Little Cobra' and 'Here I Stand'). He produced The Byrds ('Mr. Tambourine Man' and 'Turn, Turn, Turn') and Paul Revere And The Raiders as well as working with The Beach Boys, Gram Parsons, The Mamas And The Papas, Bobby Darin, Glen Campbell and Ry Cooder.  Son of actress Doris Day and trombonist Al Jorden. In Beverly Hills, California, USA, of cancer Pat Best (81), singer, guitarist and songwriter ('(I Love You) For Sentimental Reasons' and 'I Understand Just How You Feel') and a member of Deek Watson And The Brown Dots, The Four Tunes, The Tunes Plus One and The Rainbeaus. In Roseville, California, USA, of heart failure Lalomie Washburn (70), singer and songwriter ('Try My Love' and 'Freaky Strangeness') who worked with Hi Voltage, Buddy Miles, D.J. Rogers, Rufus, Stevie Wonder, Paulinho Da Costa, Quincy Jones and Greg Phillinganes. In New York, USA, of cancer Shobha Gurtu (79), singer who also composed music for a number of movies as well as being the mother of jazz musician, Trilok. In Bombay, India, of cardiac arrest Jacques Levy (69), songwriter, writer and director who headed Colgate's theatre programme for 12 years and directed, 'The Rolling Thunder Review', as well as co-writing songs with Bob Dylan ('Hurricane'), The Byrds ('All The Things') and Roger McGuinn ('Chestnut Mare'), In New York, USA, of cancer Lester Lanin (97), bandleader and songwriter ('Pink Petal Waltz'), whose bands played for many US presidential inaugurations and for Prince Charles and Princess Diana's wedding reception for which he wrote, 'My Lady Love.' In Manhattan, New York, USA, of heart failure Terry Knight (61), singer and guitarist who led Terry Knight And The Pack as well as managing and producing Grand Funk Railroad. In Killeen, Texas, USA, following a stabbing incident Joe Bushkin (87), jazz pianist and songwriter, who performed with some of the best jazz musicians of his time, including such greats as Fats Waller, Eddie Condon and Billie Holiday. As a member of the Tommy Dorsey band, he co-wrote the hit 'Oh! Look At Me Now' with John DeVries, which launched the career of a young Frank Sinatra, the band's vocalist. In New York, USA, of pneumonia. Dave Dudley (75), country singer and songwriter whose hits include 'Six Days On The Road' and 'Truck Drivin' Son Of A Gun'. In Spencer, Wisconsin, USA, following a heart attack Gary Stewart (58), country singer-songwriter, whose hits include 'Out Of Hand' and 'She's Actin' Single (I'm Drinkin' Doubles)'. In Fort Pierce, Florida, USA, from a self-inflicted gunshot Don Jobe (51) singer-songwriter, who was a member of The Otis Wheat Band, Louisiana Hot Sauce and The Mason Dixon Band. In Faraday, Louisiana, USA, following a car accident Peter Moscos (55), guitarist, singer, songwriter and producer, and a member of The Sect ('Lonely Road' and 'St. John's Wood'), The Platterpushers who later became Burke & Wills ('Thank You' and 'Come With Me'), Moscos & Stone ('Captain Captain' and 'Trouble In The City'), and who wrote songs for many Australian artists and TV productions. In Sydney, Australia, of cancer Charles R Green (90), songwriter who penned Phil Harris's 'The Thing' and did the string arrangement for Nat King Cole's 'The Christmas Song'. In Manhattan, New York, USA, of pneumonia Dick St John (63), singer-songwriter and one half of the duo Dick & Dee Dee ('The Mountain's High' and 'Thou Shalt Not Steal'), plus several releases backed by the Rolling Stones. In Los Angeles, California, USA, following a fall from a ladder Harpo Kidwell (91), country musician and songwriter who wrote 'How Many Biscuits Can You Eat?' and 'Boo-Hoo Blues'. In Adairsville, Georgia, USA, of complications from Parkinson's disease Peter Torres (61), singer, keyboardist, songwriter and a member of Billy And The Essentials ('The Dance Is Over' and 'Maybe You'll Be There'). In Collingdale, Pennsylvania, USA, following a seizure Lorene Allen (77), songwriter of such country hits as  'Another Man Loved Me Last Night' and 'Let Me Go, You're Hurtin' Me', and whose songs were recorded by such stars as Loretta Lynn, Pat Boone, Sonny James, Marie Osmond, Charlie Louvin, Conway Twitty, Eddy Arnold, Dottie West, Ernest Tubb and Don Gibson. In Hominy, Oklahoma, USA, of cancer Max D Barnes (73), country singer-songwriter whose hits include 'Chiselled In Stone' and 'Look At Us' and whose songs were recorded by Charley Pride, Randy Travis, Waylon Jennings, Vince Gill and others. International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member. In Nashville, Tennessee, USA, of pneumonia Randy VanWarmer (48), singer-songwriter of such hits as  'Just When I Needed You Most'. In Seattle, Washington, USA, of leukaemia Donald Siegal (54), composer and lyricist who wrote songs for TV's 'Captain Kangaroo' and worked with Jim Henson to write songs for TV's 'Sesame Street'. In New York City, USA, of leukaemia Songwriter Obituaries Prior To 2004 Are On The ISA Archives site ISA • International Songwriters Association (1967) internationalsongwriters@gmail.com