December 29

 Ray Thomas

December 29, 1941 – January 4, 2018

Ray Thomas co-founded the Moody Blues in 1964 and became known for his flute playing, warm vocals, and thoughtful songwriting. His contributions helped shape the band's distinctive progressive rock sound on albums including Days of Future Passed, On the Threshold of a Dream, and Every Good Boy Deserves Favour.

Thomas remained with the Moody Blues until 2002, contributing memorable songs and distinctive flute passages throughout the band's most successful years. After retiring from touring, he made occasional appearances connected with the group's legacy while his recordings continued to influence progressive rock audiences.

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Cozy Powell

December 29, 1947 – April 5, 1998

Cozy Powell first gained recognition as the drummer for the Jeff Beck Group before launching a successful solo career and becoming one of rock's most sought-after performers. His powerful drumming and versatility led to work with Rainbow, Michael Schenker Group, Whitesnake, Emerson, Lake & Powell, Black Sabbath, and many other artists, appearing on albums including Rising, Long Live Rock 'n' Roll, and Headless Cross.

Rather than remaining with one band for long, Powell built a career through high-profile collaborations across hard rock and heavy metal. His commanding style and unmistakable sound made him one of the most respected drummers of his generation.

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Neil Giraldo

December 29, 1955

Neil Giraldo first gained recognition as Rick Derringer's guitarist before joining Pat Benatar's band in 1979. Playing lead guitar while also producing and co-writing, he became her closest musical collaborator, helping shape her sound on albums including Crimes of Passion, Precious Time, and Get Nervous.

Giraldo's partnership with Benatar extended beyond the recording studio into decades of touring and songwriting. Together they built one of rock's most enduring collaborations while he also produced recordings and developed projects in film, theater, and music.

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Rick Danko

December 29, 1943 – December 10, 1999

Rick Danko joined the Hawks in the early 1960s before the group evolved into the Band with Robbie Robertson, Levon Helm, Richard Manuel, and Garth Hudson. Singing while playing bass guitar, his soulful voice and melodic playing became an essential part of the band's sound on albums including Music from Big Pink, The Band, and Stage Fright.

After the Band's original farewell concert in 1976, Danko pursued a solo career while taking part in several reunions with his former bandmates. He continued recording and performing throughout the 1980s and 1990s, remaining closely identified with the music that made the Band one of rock's most respected groups.

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