We’ve somehow managed to survive through July so far, eh? Well, July is a busy month in music history.
- One of the most important figures of the blues, Chicago blues especially, Willie Dixonwas born 110 years ago on July 1
- James Cotton was born 90 years ago on July 1
- Syl Johnson was born 89 years ago on July 1
- The B-52s Fred Schneider celebrated his 74th birthday on July 1
- The iconic Debbie Harry celebrated her 80th birthday today on July 1
- Evelyn “Champagne” King celebrated her 65th birthday on July 1
- Depeche Mode‘s Yaz’s/Yazoo’s and Erasure‘s Vince Clarke celebrated his 64th birthday on July 3
- Dr. Lonnie Smith was born 83 years ago on July 3
- Bill Withers was born 87 years ago on July 4
- Huey Lewis and The News‘ frontman Huey Lewis celebrated his 75th birthday on July 5
- Acclaimed, Wu-Tang mastermind and producer The RZA celebrated his 56th birthday on July 5
- 50 Cent celebrated his 50th birthday on July 6
- The Beatles‘ Ringo Starr celebrated his 85th birthday on July 7
As a child of the ’80s, I grew up obsessively watching MTV. I loved Duran Duran, Run DMC, LL Cool J, and so many others. I was dimly familiar with some of Depeche Mode‘s songs — in particular “People Are People” and “Just Can’t Get Enough,” which were smash hits, but I personally fell in love with 1990’s Violator.
Depeche Mode co-founder Andy “Fletch” Fletcher was born on this day 64 years ago. Although we lost him three years ago, he was an instrumental part of some of the most beloved songs ever written and recorded.
Happy belated birthday, Andy! Happy birthday, wherever you are!
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