April 13

 Jack Casady

April 13, 1944. The Jefferson Airplane sound was defined by the complex, melodic lines of Jack Casady, who played bass guitar for the ensemble from 1965 to 1972. His innovative approach to the instrument became a cornerstone of the San Francisco psychedelic movement, appearing on landmark albums like Volunteers. Alongside Jorma Kaukonen, he transitioned into a blues-rooted direction by co-founding Hot Tuna in 1969.

Jack Casady remained the primary bass guitar player for Hot Tuna throughout the seventies, maintaining a constant presence in the group from 1969 to the present. While exploring electric and acoustic blues textures, he briefly joined the band SVT in 1979 to experiment with a new wave style. His career remained centered on these collaborations, avoiding the typical session circuit to focus on his specific group projects.

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Lowell George

April 13, 1945 – June 29, 1979. In 1968, the artistic direction of The Mothers of Invention was influenced by Lowell George, who served as a singer and rhythm guitarist for the ensemble until 1969. Following his departure from Frank Zappa, he pioneered a unique blend of rock, country, and funk by founding Little Feat. He became the creative force behind the group, acting as the lead singer and slide guitarist from 1969 until his passing.

His songwriting and slide guitar techniques anchored classic albums like Dixie Chicken and Feats Dont Fail Me Now. Beyond his primary group, he was a sought after session guitarist and producer, contributing his signature sound to various records throughout the seventies. He also released a solo project titled Thanks I Eat It Out in 1979.

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Peter Sweval

April 13, 1948 – January 23, 1990. Looking Glass featured Peter Sweval as the founding bass guitar player and singer from 1969 to 1974. He provided the low end for the chart topping hit Brandy Youre A Fine Girl before the group disbanded.

In 1975, Peter Sweval joined Starz as their primary bass guitar player, performing with the heavy rock outfit until 1978.

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Max Weinberg

April 13, 1951. The rhythmic foundation of the E Street Band was solidified in 1974 when Max Weinberg became the drummer for the group, a position he has held from 1974 to the present. His powerful, precise technique became essential to the cinematic rock sound of Bruce Springsteen, particularly on the breakthrough album Born to Run. He navigated the intense recording sessions for Darkness on the Edge of Town, ensuring the percussions remained a driving force.

Before joining his most famous ensemble, Max Weinberg performed with the pit bands for Broadway musicals like Godspell. Throughout the seventies, he remained focused on his primary role within the E Street Band, contributing to their reputation for legendary, high-energy live performances. He also released a drumming instructional book in 1980.

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