September 12

 

Country music lost its greatest voice today in 2003 when Johnny Cash died of respiratory failure at 71, ending the life of the Man in Black whose deep baritone and outlaw spirit made him a legend that transcended genres and generations…

 

America's melodic architect Gerry Beckley celebrates his 72nd birthday today, the guitarist and vocalist whose smooth harmonies and songwriting contributions helped create soft-rock classics like "A Horse with No Name" and "Sister Golden Hair."…

 

Alternative piano rock's innovator Ben Folds turns 58 today, the singer-songwriter whose classical training and pop sensibilities created a unique niche in rock music through Ben Folds Five and his solo career…

 

Rock destiny was sealed today in 1996 when Jack Gillis married Meg White and took her surname, setting in motion the creation of The White Stripes and one of the most distinctive garage rock partnerships in music history…

 

Jazz-funk lost a keyboard master on this day in 2014 when The Crusaders' Joe Sample passed away at 75, ending the career of the pianist whose smooth grooves helped define the contemporary jazz movement…

 

Pink Floyd reached their emotional peak today in 1975 with the release of their ninth album 'Wish You Were Here,' the tribute to lost bandmate Syd Barrett that featured the epic title track and "Shine On You Crazy Diamond."…

 

History remembers Steve Biko who died today in 1977, the South African anti-apartheid activist whose tragic death in police custody inspired Peter Gabriel's haunting tribute song and brought international attention to the struggle against apartheid.