Throwback: Happy 90th Birthday, Syl Johnson!

I know I can’t speak for everyone but 2026 has been a very odd and very disappointing year so far. But we’ve survived to July. And that means we have five months left for the year. May the rest of 2026 get better for me — and if you’ve been struggling with things this year, may it get better for you, too. But even in struggle, there’s music, friends and community that can sustain us.

Of course, July is a busy month of music birthdays. So, as always, let’s celebrate our legends and favorites, eh?

• Missy Elliott, celebrates her 55th birthday today
• Evelyn “Champagne” King celebrates her 66th birthday today
• The B-52s Fred Schneider celebrates his 75th birthday today
• The iconic Debbie Harry celebrates her 81st birthday today

Syl Johnson, who wrote some of the most moving, most lived-in songs full of novelistic attention to details was born on this day 90 years ago. And if you don’t believe me, check out 1969’s Is It Because I’m Black?, which also features an incredible cover of The Beatles‘ “Come Together.”

Happy birthday, sir! Happy birthday wherever you are!

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