Kinky Friedman (79), American-born singer-songwriter, author, humorist, politician and leader of Kinky Friedman & The Texas Jewboys, whose humorous but frequently controversial songs include "They Ain't Making Jews Like Jesus Anymore", "Get Your Biscuits In The Oven And Your Buns In the Bed" (for which he received the "Male Chauvinist Pig Of The Year Award" from the National Organisation for Women) and "Asshole From El Paso" which was a parody on Merle Haggard's "Okie From Muskogee".
Born November 1st 1944 in Chicago, Illinois, Kinky Friedman toured with Bob Dylan, Lyle Lovett and Willie Nelson, claimed (probably incorrectly) to have been the first Jewish performer to appear on stage at the Grand Ole Opry, and released 18 albums before going on to pen 19 (mainly detective) novels which sold more than seven million copies.
A friend of both George W Bush and Bill Clinton, he decided to run as an independent against Texas Republican Governor Rick Perry in 2006 but was defeated and in 2010, sought but barely failed to win the Democratic nomination for the same post.
Kinky Friedman was a unique and provocative figure in the world of songwriting, known for his sharp wit, satirical edge, and fearless approach to addressing social and political issues through his music. His songwriting stood out for its humor, irreverence, and biting commentary, often challenging the norms of both country music and society at large.
Friedman's work was characterised by its clever wordplay and willingness to tackle controversial subjects, often with a mix of cynicism and dark humour. His lyrics often blurred the line between comedy and critique, making his work as thought-provoking as it was entertaining.
However, his penchant for controversy and his often provocative language could be polarising, frequently alienating listeners who found his approach too abrasive or confrontational. Additionally, his reliance on satire and humour, while effective, could sometimes overshadow the emotional depth of his work, leading to a perception of his songs as more novelty than substance.
Despite this, Kinky Friedman's songwriting was undeniably original and influential and his willingness to push boundaries and address taboo subjects with a sharp, satirical edge, earned him a cult following and a lasting place in the annals of country music - and beyond.
International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member.
On 37th June 2024, in Medina, Texas, USA, of complications brought on by Parkinson's disease.
International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member Obituary, courtesy of Jim Liddane
Buzz Cason (84), American-born singer-songwriter, music publisher and record producer who in 1956 founded what is now recognised as Nashville's first rock and roll band, the Casuals, which outfit later backed Brenda Lee for several years.
Born November 27, 1939 in Nashville, Tennessee, he adopted the name Garry Miles and had a Top 20 hit in 1960 with a cover of the Gary Mills UK hit "Look For A Star" (penned by Tony Hatch), and later joined The Crickets for a brief period having produced their 1964 UK hit "La Bamba". Meanwhile, one of his early songs "Soldier of Love" which had charted for Arthur Alexander, was recorded for the BBC by The Beatles, and would later be covered by Pearl Jam.
In 1966, Buzz penned his biggest hit - "Everlasting Love" which became a worldwide success for three acts, Robert Knight, Carl Carlton and Love Affair, eventually selling more than two million copies. It also became the only song to reach the US Top 40 in each decade between 1960 and 2010. Other pop hits include "Sandy" for Ronnie & The Daytonas of which he was a member for a time, "Tennessee" and "Popsicle" (both for Jan & Dean) and "Rainbow Valley" (Love Affair).
In 1970, following a stint as backing singer for Roy Orbison, Kenny Rogers and Elvis Presley, he opened Creative Workshop, a recording studio in Berry Hill. whose clients include Jimmy Buffett, Elvis Presley, Roy Orbison, The Faces, The Doobie Brothers, Dolly Parton, Jerry Reed, Merle Haggard and Emmylou Harris.
In 1987, Buzz formed BC & The Dartz, a rockabilly unit which recorded and toured up until the Covid pandemic and in recent years, he recorded and worked with his sons Taylor and Parker under the name Cason & Sons.
In a career which lasted more than 65 years, his songs were recorded by such names as U2, Gloria Estefan, Jamie Cullum, Arthur Alexander, The Beatles, Marshall Crenshaw, Pearl Jam, Ronnie & The Daytonas, The Swinging Blue Jeans, Dion, Martina McBride, The Oak Ridge Boys, T.G. Sheppard, Billy "Crash" Craddock, Tommy Overstreet, Jerry Lee Lewis, Mel Tillis, Freddy Weller, Alan Jackson and Placido Domingo.
International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member.
On 16th June 2024.in Nashville, Tennessee, USA, following a heart attack.
International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member Obituary, courtesy of Jim Liddane
Mark James (83), American-born Grammy Award-winning songwriter, singer and record producer whose hit songs include "Suspicious Minds", "Always On My Mind", "Raised On Rock", "It's Only Love" and "Moody Blue" (all recorded by Elvis Presley), "Sunday Sunrise" (a hit for both Brenda Lee and Anne Murray), "Roller Coaster" (Blood Sweat & Tears and David Cassidy), "The Eyes Of A New York Woman" and "Hooked On A Feeling" (B J Thomas), and "Where Do We Go From Here" (The Partridge Family).
Born November 29, 1940, in Houston, Texas, Mark's songs have also been recorded by such acts as Floyd Cramer, Faron Young, Roger Whittaker, Val Doonican, Pet Shop Boys, Waylon Jennings, Johnny Cash, Kris Kristofferson, The Stylistics. Michael Ball, Chris de Burgh, B.B. King, Jon Bon Jovi, Julio Iglesias, Michael Bublé, José Feliciano, LeAnn Rimes, Loretta Lynn, Susan Boyle, Shirley Bassey, Herb Alpert, The Shadows, Percy Sledge, Lou Rawls, Helen Reddy, The Box Tops, Johnny Winter, Dee Dee Warwick, Roy Clark, Thelma Houston, Billie Jo Spears, Jonathan King, Ray Peterson, Fine Young Cannibals, Billy Swan, Ronan Keating and James Last.
His songwriting was characterised by its emotional depth, memorable melodies, and the ability to craft narratives that resonated on both personal and universal levels,
combining poignant lyrics with powerful, catchy melodies. "Suspicious Minds", for instance, blended tension and passion with a driving rhythm that captured the complexity of romantic relationships, while "Always On My Mind" stands as a timeless expression of regret and longing.
One of James' strengths lay in his versatility; he wrote across genres, seamlessly blending elements of rock, pop, country, and soul. His ability to adapt his songwriting to different styles and artists remains a testament to his skill and understanding of music and although some might argue that his biggest hits, are so iconic that they sometimes overshadow the rest of his catalogue leading to a perception of his songwriting as being somewhat uneven, the emotional impact and enduring popularity of his most famous songs cement his place as a master songwriter, whose work will continue to resonate with audiences across generations.
International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member.
On 8th June 2024, in Nashville, Tennessee, USA, of undisclosed causes.
International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member Obituary, courtesy of Jim Liddane
John Schweers (78), American-born songwriter whose million-selling hits include Charley Pride’s "Amazing Love", Ronnie Milsap’s "Daydreams About Night Things", Dave & Sugar’s "Golden Tears" and Trace Adkins’ "I Left Something Turned On At Home".
Born January 12, 1946 in San Antonio, Texas, over a fifty-year period, his songs were recorded by Nashville royalty, including Charley Pride (who signed John to his publishing company), Tom T. Hall (who had advised him to move to Nashville), Eddy Arnold, Alabama, David Frizzell, Shelly West, Tammy Wynette, Loretta Lynn, David Wills, Johnny Russell, Mel Street, Susan Raye, Barbara Mandrell, Sylvia, Ronnie Milsap, Jim Ed Brown, George Jones, Mel McDaniel, The Oak Ridge Boys, Tanya Tucker, The Kendalls, Don Williams, The Osmond Brothers, Waylon Jennings, Conway Twitty, Jeannie C. Riley, Charlie Louvin, Roy Clark, Daron Norwood, George Strait, Marty Raybon, Con Hunley, Don Everly, Buck Owens, Travis Tritt, Larry Stewart, Neal McCoy, Johnny Rodriguez and Jeanne Pruett.
His songwriting was marked by a deep understanding of human emotion and the nuances of everyday life, which he translated into lyrics that were relatable yet profound. Schweers had a gift for simplicity, often using straightforward language to convey complex feelings, making his songs accessible to a wide audience.
His compositions showcased his ability to blend heartache with a sense of resilience, a combination that resonated deeply with listeners.
His knack for capturing the essence of the human experience in just a few verses made him a standout in the world of country music songwriting.
International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member.
On 28th May 2024, in Nashville, Tennessee, USA, of undisclosed causes.
International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member Obituary, courtesy of Jim Liddane
Richard D Sherman (95), American-born songwriter who alongside his brother Robert, wrote more motion-picture musical song scores than any other songwriting team in film history, creating such Disney hit musicals as "Mary Poppins", "The Happiest Millionaire", "The Sword In The Stone", "The Jungle Book", "The Many Adventures Of Winnie The Pooh", "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang", "Snoopy Come Home", "Bedknobs And Broomsticks", "The Slipper And The Rose" and "Charlotte's Web".
His songs include the Oscar-winning "Chim Chim Cher-ee" along with "A Spoonful Of Sugar", "Feed The Birds", "I Wanna Be Like You", "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious" and "Jolly Holliday" as well as such teen hits as "Tall Paul" and "Pineapple Princess" (both for Annette Funicello), "You’re Sixteen" (for Johnny Burnette and covered later by Ringo Starr) and "Let’s Get Together" (for Hayley Mills).
Born on June 12, 1928 in New York City, and the son of hit songwriter Al Sherman whose own hits include "Livin' In The Sunlight, Lovin' In The Moonlight", Richard won two Academy Awards, three Grammy Awards and 23 gold and platinum albums in a career which spanned 65 years,
His work was marked by a rare blend of simplicity and sophistication.
Songs like "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious" and "A Spoonful of Sugar" from Mary Poppins are perfect examples of his knack for creating infectious, whimsical tunes that delight both children and adults. At the same time, his songs often carry underlying messages that resonate on a deeper level, whether it's the importance of optimism, as seen in "The Bare Necessities" from The Jungle Book, or the longing for a place of belonging in "Chim Chim Cher-ee".
One of the most remarkable aspects of Sherman's songwriting was his ability to enhance storytelling through music. His songs were never just interludes in the films but integral components of the narrative, often advancing the plot or deepening character development. This synergy between music and story was a hallmark of his talent, making his work enduringly popular across generations.
Some might argue that the pervasive optimism and lightheartedness in many of his songs, while charming, could occasionally feel overly sentimental or simplistic. Additionally, the association with Disney's family-friendly brand led some to overlook the technical mastery and complexity underlying his compositions, but despite these potential critiques, Richard M. Sherman's songwriting is universally regarded as a pinnacle of the craft, particularly in the realm of musical theatre and film. His ability to create songs that were both timeless and deeply connected to the emotions and imaginations of his audience will ensure his place as one of the great songwriters of the 20th century.
International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member.
On 25th May 2024, in Los Angeles, California, USA, of heart failure.
International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member Obituary, courtesy of Jim Liddane
Wayland Holyfield (82), American-born songwriter who in a fifty-four year career, scored more than forty US Top Ten Country hits. including such classics as Bobby Rusells's "Rednecks, White Socks and Blue Ribbon Beer", Don Williams' You’re My Best Friend", "She Never Knew Me" and "Til The Rivers All Run Dry", Crystal Gayle's "I’ll Do It All Over Again", Mel Street's "If I Had A Cheating Heart", Ronnie Milsap's "Nobody Likes Sad Songs", Anne Murray's "Could I Have This Dance" as well as the Arkansas State Song "Arkansas (You Run Deep In Me)".
Wayland, who was born on March 15, 1942 in Conway County, Arkansas, also scored hits with Conway Twitty, Charley Pride, Randy Travis, George Strait, Reba McEntire, Tammy Wynette, The Judds, Barbara Mandrell, Kathy Mattea, Mark Chesnutt, John Anderson, The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, The Oak Ridge Boys, Gary Allan, Johnny Rodriguez, and Ernest Tubb while also becoming the first Nashville songwriter to be elected to the national ASCAP Board of Directors
One of Wayland's greatest strengths was his consistency. He had a knack for writing songs that feel authentic and grounded, with a clear understanding of the genre's roots. His songs often conveyed a sense of nostalgia and timelessness, making them appealing across generations of country music fans, and he had a talent for writing songs that suited a wide range of vocalists, allowing them to bring their own emotional depth to his work.
However, some might argue that Holyfield's adherence to traditional country themes and structures, while part of his appeal, can also limit the innovation in his songwriting. His work is often deeply rooted in the conventions of classic country, which can lead to a perception of predictability. For some listeners, this adherence to tradition might have come across as lacking in experimentation or modern relevance but this is to miss the point, namely that Wayland Holyfield's songwriting was marked by its warmth, accessibility, and emotional truth. His ability to create songs that felt both personal and universal earned him a place among the most esteemed songwriters in country music. His work will always resonate because it speaks to the core of human experience, wrapped in the familiar and comforting sounds of classic country.
International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member.
On 6th May 2024, in Nashville, Tennessee, USA, of undisclosed causes.
International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member Obituary, courtesy of Jim Liddane
Duane Eddy (86), American-born Grammy Award-winning guitarist and composer, whose hits include "Rebel-'Rouser", "Ramrod","Cannonball", "The Lonely One", "Peter Gunn", "Yep!", "Forty Miles of Bad Road", "Some Kind-a Earthquake", "Shazam!", "Because They're Young", "Kommotion", "Pepe", "Ring of Fire", "My Blue Heaven", "Caravan", "Deep In The Heart Of Texas", "The Ballad Of Paladin", "(Dance With The) Guitar Man", "Boss Guitar", and "Play Me Like You Play Your Guitar".
Born April 26, 1938 in Corning, New York, Duane Eddy's guitar style was defined by its deep, resonant "twang" that left an indelible mark on the history of rock and roll. Emerging in the late 1950s, Eddy pioneered a sound that was both raw and cinematic, using a combination of heavy reverb, tremolo picking, and his distinctive use of the low strings to create a sound that was instantly recognisable.
Eddy's playing was minimalist yet powerful, often relying on simple, memorable riffs rather than complex solos. This approach allowed him to craft tunes that were as much about mood and atmosphere as they were about melody. Tracks like "Rebel Rouser" and "Peter Gunn" demonstrate his ability to convey emotion and narrative with just a few notes, making his music feel larger than life.
Some guitarists argued that his reliance on a limited set of techniques - especially his signature "twang" - made his work feel somewhat repetitive over time, but it was this very consistency that solidified his style as a distinct and influential force in rock and roll. Eddy's contribution to the genre lay not in any display of technical virtuosity (although he was a superb musician), but in his ability to evoke a timeless, almost primal feeling through his guitar.
Still performing well into his 80s, famous guitarists influenced by him include George Harrison, Dave Davies, Hank Marvin, the Ventures, Bruce Springsteen and Mark Knopfler.
International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member.
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee.
On 30th April 2024, in Franklin, Tennessee, USA, of cancer.
International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member Obituary, courtesy of Jim Liddane
John "Bucky" Wilkin (77), American-born singer-songwriter, record producer and music publisher who scored a number of hits under the name Ronnie & The Daytonas including "GTO", "California Bound", "Sandy", "Somebody To Love Me", "Dianne Dianne" and "I’ll Think Of Summer". Born April 26th, 1946 in Tulsa, Oklahoma, he also charted with "Tiger-A-Go-Go", performed by Buzz & Bucky, a duo featuring himself and singer-songwriter Buzz Cason.
Although Ronnie & The Daytonas became a major name in the mid-1960's, the band as such never existed. Wilkin sang lead in the studio alongside Buzz Cason and Bobby Russell, while if obliged to appear live on stage or on television, he would simply line-up a few session musicians who were keen to party. When his label finally demanded publicity pictures, he had a group of school friends pose for the photos which were later also used on the "band's" album covers.
He co-wrote with Kristofferson, travelled with Dennis Hopper and Peter Fonda to make a movie in Peru for which he penned all of the songs, and would occasionally disappear for months on end, travelling across America in a large RV.
The son of International Songwriters Association Hall of Famer Marijohn Wilkin, who had penned such hits as "The Long Black Veil", "One Day At A Time (Sweet Jesus)" and "Waterloo", Bucky first appeared on TV at the age of eight, playing guitar alongside Brenda Lee. When Ronnie & The Daytons hit the top some years later, he and his mother used the money to set up Buckhorn Music, whose first signing was Kris Kristofferson. Meanwhile John's own songs were being recorded by such stars as Bobby Goldsboro, Bobby Vee, Ray Charles, Bobbie Gentry, Southern Pacific, The Beach Boys, Wayne Newton, The Hondells and The Swinging Blue Jeans,
When not writing or touring with the Daytonas, John was in demand in Nashville as a session guitarist, playing on albums by Waylon Jennings, Joan Baez, Kris Kristofferson, Jessi Colter, Dory Previn and many more.
International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member.
On 6th April 2024, in Linden, Tennessee, USA, of undisclosed causes.
International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member Obituary, courtesy of Jim Liddane
Eric Carmen (74), American-born singer-songwriter, keyboardist, guitarist and leader of the Rsaspberries. whose hits (mainly penned by Eric) include "Go All the Way", "I Wanna Be with You", "Let's Pretend" and "Overnight Sensation (Hit Record)".
These early songs are quintessential examples of his talent for merging the energy of rock with the accessibility of pop, delivering infectious melodies paired with emotionally charged lyrics. His ability to tap into the youthful exuberance and angst of romantic relationships helped define the power pop genre.
However, In 1975, Eric left the band and embarked on a solo career, scoring such hits as "All by Myself", Never Gonna Fall in Love Again". She Did It". "It Hurts Too Much", "I Wanna Hear It from Your Lips", "Hungry Eyes" and "Make Me Lose Control".
His solo career further showcased his versatility and depth as a songwriter. Hits like "All By Myself" and "Never Gonna Fall in Love Again" revealed his classical influences, particularly in the way he incorporated lush, orchestral arrangements and grand, sweeping melodies. "All By Myself," in particular, stands out as a masterpiece of pop balladry, with its introspective lyrics and dramatic shifts between soft, introspective verses and powerful, soaring choruses.
In addition to his own recording career, Eric. who was born on August 11, 1949 in Cleveland, Ohio, was a prolific songwriter whose composjtions were recorded by such stars as Frank Sinatra, Celine Dion, Michael Ball, Carmen McRae, Hank Williams, Jr, Rosemary Clooney, Sheryl Crow, Brotherhood of Man, Shirley Bassey, Eartha Kitt, Frankie Valli, Olivia Newton-John, Patti LaBelle, Smokie, John Travolta, Dana, Shaun Cassidy and Showaddywaddy.
It has been said that Carmen’s songwriting, especially in his solo work, occasionally verged on the overly sentimental or melodramatic, with lyrics that sometimes wandered into cliché territory, the reality is that his ability to fuse rock energy with classical sensibilities and his knack for writing memorable, emotionally resonant songs have cemented his reputation as a significant and influential songwriter.
International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member.
On 10th March 2024, in Gates Mills, Ohio, USA, of undisclosed causes.
International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member Obituary, courtesy of Jim Liddane
Toby Keith (61), American-born singer-songwriter, record producer, actor and businessman, whose hits include "Who’s Your Daddy?", "Made In America", "Should Have Been A Cowboy", "As Good as I Once Was" and "Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue (The Angry American)", earning him an estimated $550 million fortune and countless music industry awards.
Born July 8, 1961 in Clinton, Oklahoma, Keith's music often celebrated blue-collar values, patriotism, and personal resilience, resonating with a broad audience. His unapologetic, sometimes controversial stance, particularly in songs like "American Soldier," earned him both ardent fans and critics, but his authenticity was never in question. In addition, Keith became known for his deep, resonant voice and straightforward, relatable lyrics.
Beyond his music, Keith proved to be a savvy businessman, expanding his influence with ventures like his own record label, Show Dog Nashville. He was also a major philanthropist, operating notably through the Toby Keith Foundation, which supports children with cancer and also offers assistance ro military personnel and their families.
In addition to his career in music, Keith ventured into acting, appearing in films such as "Broken Bridges" and "Beer For My Horses".
International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member.
On 5th February 2024, in Oklahoma City, USA, of stomach cancer.
International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member, Obituary, courtesy of Jim Liddane
Frank Farian (82), songwriter, vocalist and one of the most successful producers of all time whose productions sold more than 850 million copies.
Frank Farian was born Franz Reuther in Kirn, Germany on July 18, 1941, his father having been killed in battle six weeks before his birth. Leaving school at 18, Frank trained as a chef before forming his first band Frankie Boys Schatten five years later. They recorded a single "Shouting Ghost" which failed to chart, followed by more successful cover versions of such US hits as "Yakety Yak" (1964) and "Under the Boardwalk" (1965). Two years later, Frankie himself scored with a solo version of the Otis Redding song "Mr. Pitiful" and over the next ten years, released a number of successful German singles including "Gipsy" (1968), "Dana My Love" (1968), "Speedy Jack" (1970), "Gold in Acapulco" (1972), "Atlantica" (1975) and "My Decision" (1975). His biggest hit, which sold more than a million copies, was a cover of the Austin Roberts 1976 US hit "Rocky".
That same year, Farian recorded the Prince Buster 1964 hit "Al Capone" re-titled as "Baby Do You Wanna Bump", but decided instead to put it out under the group name Boney M, "featuring Bobby Farrell". In fact Farrell did not sing on this, or indeed any of the band’s subsequent releases, but instead lip-synced on stage to Farian's pre-recorded vocals. Boney M went on to have a string of hits worldwide including "Daddy Cool", "Ma Baker", "Belfast", "Sunny", "Rasputin", "Brown Girl in the Ring", "Mary's Boy Child/Oh My Lord", "Little Drummer Boy", and "Rivers of Babylon", all featuring Farian's lead vocals. After ten years, the band dissolved, although due to the failure of Farian to register the band name in a number of territories, versions of it re-formed from time to time with different line-ups over the next twenty years.
Farian now launched a new "super-group" called Far Corporation (originally christened the Frank Farian Corporation), featuring ex-Toto stars Steve Lukather, David Paich, Bobby Kimball and Simon Phillips along with Irish vocalist Robin McAuley. They went on to score a number of hits including covers of Paul Simon's "Mother and Child Reunion", Free's "Fire and Water" and Led Zeppelin's "Stairway To Heaven" but disbanded following the relative failure of their third album "Solitude".
Meanwhile, Farina had formed a third group, this time to record a cover of "Girl You Know It's True", a song originally recorded by the Maryland-based act Numarx. The recording, featuring session singers Brad Howell, John Davis, Charles Shaw, Jodie Rocco and Linda Rocco, was then played by Farian to two singer-dancers, Rob Pilatus, a German-born performer of African-American descent, and Fabrice Morvan, a French teenager whose family came from Guadeloupe. Neither was highly educated, and seemingly were under the impression that they would be re-recording the vocals before release. Instead, the single was released without their input, and the duo soon found themselves touring Europe under the band name Milli Vanilli, lip-syncing to Farian's pre-recorded tracks. Efforts by the duo to insist that Farian should allow them to handle the vocals on subsequent releases fell on deaf ears, and the deception continued for close on two years. The act was Farian's most successful venture, going on to earn five gold discs, including three consecutive US #1s, "Baby Don't Forget My Number", "Blame It on the Rain", and "Girl I'm Gonna Miss You". In all, they sold more than ten millions records, while the album from which the tracks were taken, spent 78 weeks on the American charts, seven of them at #1.
In February 1990, Milli Vanilli were named as winners of the Best New Artist award at the 32nd Grammy Awards ceremony in Los Angeles.
However, by now, suspicions were being raised in the USA, where an MTV executive, having interviewed the duo, had already said that Pilatus and Morvan simply did not possess sufficient English-language skills to have sung on the hits. Weeks later, at a performance in Bristol, Connecticut, the pre-recorded track jammed, causing Pilatus to panic and run off the stage. Meanwhile Charles Shaw, annoyed at the fact that on the American version of the album, Pilatus and Morvan had been named as the lead vocalists, issued a statement, (subsequently withdrawn), that he had been the actual vocalist. Unable to stem the bad publicity, Farian announced that he had fired both Pilatus and Morvan, confirming that they had never performed the vocals either on their recordings, or at any of their public appearances.
The National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences now became involved, demanding that the Grammy Award be returned, Arista Records stopped all Milli Vanilli sales and deleted the album from their catalogue, and the duo found themselves stranded in the USA, facing a storm of abuse from music fans, along with 26 lawsuits alleging fraud.
Farina himself, however, was not sued, going on to release a follow-up Milli Vanilli album titled "The Moment of Truth" which this time pictured the real vocalists on the cover, although this failed to sell. In 1997, apparently upset by his abrupt firing of Pilatus and Morvan, Farian offered to record a third Milli Vanilli album to be titled "Back And In Attack" but with Pilatus and Morvan handling all the lead vocals. However Pilatus was by now suffering from depression and drug addiction, and was found dead in a Frankfurt hotel room a few days before the album could be completed.
Subsequently, Farian went on to found the German-American band La Bouche who scored international hits with "Be My Lover", "Sweet Dreams", "You Won't Forget Me" and "S.O.S". He also formed a second duo Le Click, which topped the charts with "Tonight Is the Night", "Call Me" and "Don't Go", as well as producing an album for Meatloaf.
In 2006, a musical "Daddy Cool", featuring the songs of such Farian acts as Boney M, Milli Vanilli and La Bouche opened on London's West End, running for six months before embarking on a UK tour. It subsequently toured Germany, Switzerland, the Netherlands and Spain.
In later years, having sold more an estimated than 800 million records, Farian retired to live in Miami, Florida. Although still criticised by some in the American music industry, he claimed that he could never quite understand their point of view, pointing out that what he had done was normal industry practice, referencing the numerous star bands (some American) whose members had not always perfomed on their hit recordings.
International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member.
In Miami, Florida, USA, on January 23, 2024, of undisclosed causes.
International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member Obituary, courtesy of Jim Liddane
Melanie (76), American-born singer-songwriter, who made her debut at the 1969 Woodstock Festival, before going on to write and record such classic hits as "Lay Down (Candles in the Rain)" and "Brand New Key".
Melanie was born Melanie Safka, on February 3, 1947, in Astoria, Queens, New York. Raised in the Bronx, she came from a musically inclined household. Her father Fred, was a jazz musician, and her mother, Pauline, sang jazz professionally under the name Polly Altomare. Together, they nurtured Melanie's early interest in the arts and played a pivotal role in shaping her passion for music from an early age.
Melanie's education primarily took place in New Jersey to where her family had moved, first at Long Branch High School where she was bullied by some students on account of her radical or “hippie” views, and later at Red Bank Regional High School in Red Bank from which she graduated in 1964.
She intended to embark immediately on a folk music career but parental pressure obliged her to first obtain an academic qualification, so she enrolled at the New York Academy of Fine Arts to study acting, while performing in the evening at the various folk clubs and coffee houses in Greenwich Village, captivating audiences with her distinctive voice and poignant lyrics.
During the burgeoning folk scene, Melanie collaborated with artists such as Bob Dylan and Arlo Guthrie, which contributed to her growing prominence within the folk community. These collaborations not only expanded her musical horizons but led to a recording contract with Columbia, although her first two singles for the label, failed to chart and she would soon sign with Buddah Records. In 1968, she married record producer Peter Schekeryk, with whom she had three children, all of whom subsequently pursued careers in music. The couple's collaborative efforts extended beyond their personal life, as Schekeryk, who died in 2010, played a crucial role in Melanie's career, producing all bar one of her albums.
Her breakthrough came with her performance at the Woodstock Festival in 1969, where she delivered an unforgettable set. The audience, lighting candles during her performance, inspired her to pen her first hit "Lay Down (Candles in the Rain)", which reached #6 in the USA, and her follow-ups, such as "Peace Will Come (According to Plan)", "Ruby Tuesday", "What Have They Done to My Song Ma" (later covered by The New Seekers), and "The Nickel Song" all charted, while albums such as "Affectionately Melanie" (1969) and "Candles in the Rain" (1970), which showcased an evolving style, blending folk, pop, and rock elements, brought her to national attention, earning her a Grammy Award nomination for Best New Artist in 1970. While she did not secure a win, the nomination underscored her impact on the music scene.
She also embarked on a series of appearances at such festivals as the Powder Ridge Rock Festival (where she was the only act to ignore a court injunction against the holding of the event), the Strawberry Fields Festival held at Mosport Park, Ontario, Canada, the Isle of Wight Festival at Afton Down in the UK and the 1971 Glastonbury Festival, held in Glastonbury, England.
In 1971, she left Buddah and set up her own label Neighborhood Records, and soon after scored her biggest "Brand New Key" (sometimes called "The Roller Skate Song"), which sold over four million copies worldwide despite being banned by a number of radio stations, topping the charts in the USA, UK, Ireland, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Germany, New Zealand, and the Netherlands. A few years later, a parody of that song titled "I've Got A Brand New Combine Harvester" by the Wurzels, also topped the UK charts.
Subsequent hits include "Ring the Living Bell", "Someday I'll Be a Farmer", "Together Alone", "Do You Believe", "Bitter Bad" and a cover of the Shirelles "Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow", and although the singles hits dried up in the mid-80s, her albums continued to sell, while she remained in hreat demand for festivals worldwide, appearing alongside such icons as Arlo Guthrie and Judy Collins.
In a career spanning 50 years, she released a total of 41 albums (13 of which were live), along with 14 compilation albums and 59 singles. Her final studio album "Somewhere Under the Rainbow" came out in 2019, while two live albums "Live at Woodstock" and "Melanie Live at Drury Lane" were issued the following year. At the time of her death, she was completing an album of covers to be titled "Second Hand Smoke", which would include Radiohead’s “Creep,” the Moody Blues’ “Nights In White Satin,” Depeche Mode’s “Enjoy the Silence” and David Bowie’s “Everyone Says Hi.”
International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member,
In Nashville, Tennessee, USA, on January 23, 2024, of undisclosed causes.
International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member Obituary, courtesy of Jim Liddane
Laurie Johnson (86), composer, bandleader, conductor and arranger, who wrote scores for dozens of film and television series.
Laurie Johnson was born in Hampstead, London, UK on February 7 1927, into a family with a strong musical tradition. His parents, Harold and Ethel Johnson, recognised their son's musical aptitude early on and encouraged his passion for the arts. After grammar school, he began his formal education in music at the Royal Academy of Music in London under Ralph Vaughan Williams, who helped him hone his skills in composition, arrangement, and orchestration.
Having left the Academy, he spent four years serving in the band of the Coldstream Guards, frequently participating in major ceremonial events, before embarking on a career penning arrangements for the Ted Heath Band and later for many of Britain’s leading dance bands and recording orchestras. This work brought him to the attention of the UK movie industry, and he was soon writing and conducting scores for such films as "The Good Companions" (1957), "The Moonraker" (1958), "Girls at Sea" (1958), "No Trees in the Street" (1959), "Tiger Bay" (1959), and "Operation Bullshine" (1959). In 1959, he also penned his first television theme, for the TV drama "No Hiding Place".
The same year, he was asked to act as composer and music director for the musical "Lock Up Your Daughters", winning an Ivor Novello Award alongside Lionel Bart who had penned the lyrics. The following year, he signed with the prestigious KPM Music Library in London, providing (whether as a composer, conductor or arranger), literally thousands of pieces to the Library, many of which are still being used today in such shows as "SpongeBob SquarePants". He also scored a Top 10 hit in 1961 with "Sucu Sucu", the theme from the television series "Top Secret" and went on to hit the UK album charts with such releases as "The New Big Sound of the Laurie Johnson Orchestra" (1963) and "The Big New Sound Strikes Again" (1965).
His television scores include "Echo Four Two" (1961), "Top Secret" (1961), "Animal Magic" (1962), "Riviera Police" (1965), "The Avengers" (1965), "This Is Your Life" (1969), "Red Gauntlet" (1970), "Shirley's World" (1971), "Jason King" (1971), "Thriller" (1973), "The New Avengers" (1976), "The Professionals" (1977) and "W1A" (2014), while his contribution to such theatre productions as "Pieces of Eight" (1959) and "The Four Musketeers" (1967) enhanced to his reputation. In addition, he also co-owned the production company Avengers Mark One Productions Ltd which produced several of these TV series.
Between 1960 and 1990. Laurie worked prolifically in the movie industry, providing themes for such films as "I Aim at the Stars" (1960), "Spare The Rod" (1961), "What a Whopper " (1961), "Siege of the Saxons" (1963), "Bitter Harvest" (1963), "Dr. Strangelove" (1964), "First Men in the Moon" (1964), "East of Sudan" (1964), "The Beauty Jungle" (1964), "You Must Be Joking!" (1965), "Hot Millions" (1968), "Mister Jerico" (1970), "And Soon the Darkness" (1970), "The Firechasers" (1971), "Captain Kronos – Vampire Hunter" (1972), "The Belstone Fox" (1973), "The Maids" (1974), "Hedda" (1975), "Diagnosis: Murder" (1975), "It Shouldn't Happen to a Vet" (1976), "A Hazard of Hearts" (1987), "It's Alive III: Island of the Alive" (1987), "The Lady and the Highwayman" (1989) and "A Ghost in Monte Carlo" (1990).
In 1997, at the age of 70, and having seen his work being used in more than 400 movies or TV shows, he announced his retirement from composing, before announcing the formation of The London Big Band with Jack Parnell as conductor, Vince Hill as vocalist, trumpeter Kenny Baker and saxophonist Tom Whittle. The band released several albums, one of which produced the hit single "Theme From The Professionals" (1997), and three years later, he also went on to publish a well-received autobiography titled "Noises in the Head".
International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member.
In Stanmore, North London, UK, on January 16, 2024, from natural causes.
International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member Obituary, courtesy of Jim Liddane
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