February 15

 John Helliwell

February 15, 1945. Joining Supertramp in 1973, John Helliwell became the foundational saxophonist and woodwind player who defined the band's sophisticated pop-rock arrangements. His arrival marked a shift toward the classic lineup that produced Crime of the Century. From 1973 to the present, he has provided the group with melodic depth through his diverse mastery of the clarinet and various saxophones.

Beyond his instrumental contributions, John Helliwell acted as the charismatic master of ceremonies during live performances throughout the seventies. His stage presence and technical proficiency helped propel Supertramp to global stardom, particularly during the Breakfast in America era. He remained a central figure within the ensemble, bridging the gap between jazz fusion and mainstream rock through his intricate solos.

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Mick Avory

February 15, 1944. The Kinks relied on the rhythmic foundation of Mick Avory, who served as their drummer from 1964 to 1984. During the late sixties, he navigated the transition into the band’s conceptual era, providing the percussion for landmark albums like Village Green Preservation Society and Arthur. His understated style anchored the quintessentially English songwriting of the Davies brothers throughout the seventies.

As the group shifted toward an arena rock sound later in the decade, Avory adapted his technique for the Low Budget and Misfits records. He remained a steadying presence behind the kit through years of internal friction. Moving into 1980, he helped secure their commercial resurgence with One for the Road, maintaining his essential role in the lineup.

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John Goodsall

February 15, 1953 – November 10, 2021. John Goodsall began his professional journey at fifteen with Babylon before touring alongside The Alan Bown Set. By 1972, he had assumed the role of lead guitarist for Atomic Rooster, performing under the pseudonym Johnny Mandala on the album Nice 'n' Greasy. His intricate technique became a defining element of the heavy progressive rock sound during this era.

In 1975, Goodsall co-founded the jazz fusion ensemble Brand X, where he remained the primary guitarist and a prolific composer from 1975 to 1999. He contributed sophisticated layers of electric guitar and synthesizer to acclaimed records such as Unorthodox Behaviour and Moroccan Roll. Throughout the late seventies, he balanced his commitment to the group with session work for various high-profile artists, solidifying his reputation as a versatile and rhythmic presence within the fusion scene.

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