August 19

 Ian Gillan

August 19, 1945

Ian Gillan took over the role of lead singer for Deep Purple in 1969. He brought a spectacular vocal range and famous high-pitched screams that completely transformed the band from a pop-rock outfit into hard rock pioneers. His powerful delivery drove legendary studio albums like Deep Purple in Rock and Machine Head, making tracks like Smoke on the Water massive radio hits. He also showcased his incredible vocal talents by singing the title role on the original studio concept album for Jesus Christ Superstar.

He stepped away from the group in 1973 to chart a new path, eventually launching the jazz-fusion project known as the Ian Gillan Band. Realizing fans wanted a heavier style, he shifted gears to form a new rock band called Gillan, which scored several hit records across Europe like Mr. Universe and Glory Road. He shocked the rock world by joining Black Sabbath for a brief stint to record the 1983 album Born Again. He reunited with the classic Deep Purple lineup in 1984 for the multi-platinum comeback record Perfect Strangers, and he continued to record and tour with the legendary group for several decades.

🎸 🎸 🎸

John Deacon

August 19, 1951

John Deacon took over the role of bass guitarist for Queen in 1971. He provided a remarkably steady, melodic foundation that allowed the flashy guitar and vocals to shine. His accurate timing and clever chord lines anchored their self-titled debut and the breakthrough hit Killer Queen. He also put his electronic engineering background to good use by building a custom amplifier that helped create unique orchestral guitar sounds for the group.

He expanded his role by writing major radio hits that took the band to massive global success. His pop-oriented song Youre My Best Friend added a soft electric piano texture to A Night at the Opera. He later came up with an iconic, heavy bass riff for Another One Bites the Dust, driving the unit to the top of the charts. He kept the low end moving on international tours and major albums like News of the World and Jazz. He maintained his spot in the core roster until 1997, completing a phenomenal multi-decade run with the outfit.

🎸 🎸 🎸

Ginger Baker

August 19, 1939 – October 6, 2019

In 1966 Ginger Baker formed the power trio Cream. He brought a wild jazz background to the drums, using two bass drums at the same time to create a thundering wall of sound. His fierce playing style powered massive rock radio hits like Sunshine of Your Love and White Room before the group split up.

He quickly moved on to launch the short-lived supergroup Blind Faith with Eric Clapton. Seeking a completely fresh sound, he traveled to Africa to study complex rhythms and built a recording studio there. He formed a high-energy jazz-rock band called Ginger Bakers Air Force that featured a massive horn section. He later teamed up with three former members of Masters of Reality to record a heavy rock album in 1994, keeping his legendary rhythmic drive alive for decades.

🎸 🎸 🎸

Elliot Lurie

August 19, 1948

Elliot Lurie formed the pop rock group Looking Glass in 1969 while attending college. He served as the lead guitarist and lead singer for the band. His vocals highlighted their biggest hit single Brandy You Are A Fine Girl in 1972. He also wrote that track, which drove the success of their self-titled debut album the same year. He recorded a second album with the group called Subway Serenade in 1973 before deciding to pursue other opportunities.

He left the lineup in 1974 to focus on a solo career. He released a self-titled solo album later in 1974 and distributed several solo singles through 1975. He transitioned into working as a music supervisor for motion pictures and television shows in 1984. He occasionally fronted new versions of his old band for special concert appearances starting in 2003.

🎸 🎸 🎸

< Yesterday

Tomorrow >