October 22

 Leslie West

October 22, 1945 – December 23, 2020

Born Leslie Weinstein, Leslie West co-founded Mountain in 1969 with Felix Pappalardi, Steve Knight, and N. D. Smart. As the band's lead singer, guitarist, and principal songwriter, he helped create a powerful blues-based hard rock sound on albums such as Climbing!, Nantucket Sleighride, Flowers of Evil, and Avalanche. His guitar playing and vocals were featured on songs including "Mississippi Queen," "Theme for an Imaginary Western," and "Nantucket Sleighride."

Before Mountain, West recorded the 1969 solo album Mountain, which led directly to the formation of the band. Throughout the 1970s and beyond, he participated in several Mountain reunions while also pursuing a solo career and collaborating with artists including Jack Bruce, Mick Jagger, and Ozzy Osbourne. His expressive guitar style and commanding voice established him as one of the distinctive figures of hard rock.

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Greg Hawkes

October 22, 1952

Greg Hawkes joined The Cars in 1977 and became one of the band's keyboard players, helping shape its blend of rock, pop, and new wave influences. His synthesizer work was a defining element of albums such as The Cars, Candy-O, Panorama, Shake It Up, and Heartbeat City. He contributed keyboards, saxophone, and occasional vocals to songs including "Just What I Needed," "Let's Go," "Shake It Up," "Magic," and "Drive."

After The Cars disbanded in 1988, Hawkes worked as a session player, released solo recordings, and performed with artists including Todd Rundgren. He reunited with The Cars for the 2011 album Move Like This and has continued recording and performing in various projects. He remains active in music in 2026.

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