Drummer and lyricist for Rush, Neil Peart was born on this day, September 12th, in 1952. Neil is without a doubt one of the most influential drummers in history, and I’d say that eight out of ten drummers I interview site either him or John Bonham as their primary influence. Continue reading Happy Birthday, Neil Peart!
Strummer in London, 1978
Joe Strummer (born John Graham Mellor), singer and guitarist for The Clash was born on this day, August 21st in 1952. Strummer died of heart failure on December 22, 2002.
Ramones’ Drummer Marky Ramone (born Marc Bell) was born on this day, July 15th, in 1956. Coincidentally, Ian Curtis of Joy Division was also born on this date in 1956. Curtis passed away quite tragically on May 18, 1980, having committed suicide by hanging himself. Johnny Thunders (born John Genzale) of The New York Dolls and The Heartbreakers was born on this date in 1952. He died of a drug overdose (though some say it was murder) on April 23, 1991. It’s always sad to lose someone so charismatic and talented in their prime. Let us all take a few minutes (at least) today to celebrate the lives and music of these three influential musicians!
“What Are You Looking At?”
Iron Maiden drummer Nicko McBrain was born on this day, June 5th in 1952. Coincidentally, I just did an amazing interview with Nicko this past Monday, which will show up eventually in the pages of Modern Drummer magazine. He was really just the coolest, most hilarious guy to talk to. Happy Birthday, Nicko!