I’m off to Philadelphia today to take part in the Asian Art Initiative’s Sound Type Music Writers Workshop and Music Festival but the show must go on as best as it could until I return. But in the meantime, let’s get to it:
March is a very busy month for music history.
- The Who‘s Roger Daltrey celebrated his 80th birthday on March 1
- Roy Haynes celebrated his 99th birthday on March 14.
- Sly and the Family Stone frontman Sly Stone celebrated his 81st birthday on March 15
- DJ Premier celebrated his 58th birthday on March 21
The legendary Lee “Scratch” Perry was born 88 years ago on March 20.
As a producer, composer, singer and songwriter, Perry was noted for his innovative studio techniques and production style: In the 70s, he pioneered the development of dub music through his early adoption of remixing and studio effects. He also worked with and/or produced material for a wide variety of artists including Bob Marley, The Wailers. Junior Murvin, The Congos, Max Romero, Adrian Sherwood, Beastie Boys, Ari Up, The Clash, The Orb, and others.
We lost Mr. Perry a couple of years ago but Perry’s influence on modern music — especially on reggae and electronic music — has remained towering.
Happy birthday, sir! Happy birthday wherever you are!
