February 21

 Paul Newton

February 21, 1948. In 1968, the heavy rock scene was transformed when Paul Newton became the founding bass guitarist for Uriah Heep. His tenure with the collective lasted from 1968 to 1971, a pivotal period where his driving low-end frequencies defined their early progressive sound. He provided the essential rhythmic foundation for their first three influential records, including the landmark Very 'Eavy... Very 'Umble. Previously, he contributed as the bass guitarist for The Gods, playing alongside several future icons of the genre.

By the early seventies, Paul Newton had solidified his legacy by helping establish the dramatic, organ-heavy style that would eventually define British hard rock. Though his primary professional activity with the group concluded in 1971, his influence on their signature foundation remained a constant.

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Vince Welnick

February 21, 1951 – June 2, 2006. In 1972, Vince Welnick emerged as the keyboardist for the theatrical rock ensemble The Tubes, a role he maintained from 1972 to 1986. His innovative use of synthesizers and pianos provided the backbone for the group's satirical and highly visual performances throughout the seventies. He was instrumental in crafting the complex arrangements on their self-titled debut and the provocative 1975 anthem White Punks on Dope.

As a primary songwriter and keyboardist, Vince Welnick navigated the band through diverse musical landscapes, from progressive art rock to the polished production of Remote Control in 1979. His technical proficiency on the keys and high-register vocals remained a constant feature of their sound during this prolific era. By 1980, he had helped establish the group as a significant force in the avant-garde rock scene.

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Jerry Harrison

February 21, 1949. In 1971, Jerry Harrison joined The Modern Lovers as their keyboardist, contributing to the proto-punk foundation of their influential debut album. Following the dissolution of that group, he was recruited by Talking Heads in 1977, serving as the keyboardist and rhythm guitarist from 1977 to 1991. His arrival transformed the trio into a quartet, adding dense textures to the art-rock classic Remain in Light.

Throughout the late seventies, Jerry Harrison utilized synthesizers and guitars to anchor the band's nervous, rhythmic energy on records like Fear of Music.

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