NEWS PLUS:

What’s the latest info about about rock music and the most interesting and momentous events in its past? You can find it all here: breaking news, sales and airplay charts from the past, notable occasions, and our appreciations of recently departed artists and other musical figures of note

James Cotton, Blues Harmonica Legend, Dies at 81

He began playing blues harp at age 9 and became one of the masters of the instrument, with more than 30 albums and countless guest appearances to his name.

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Y&T Founding Guitarist Joey Alves Dead at 63

The original rhythm guitarist of the Bay Area hard rock/metal band formed in the ’70s has passed away. That leaves only one member of the first lineup.

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Joni Sledge, of ‘We Are Family’ Dance Group, Dies

One of the four Sister Sledge family members who sang the chart-topping anthem plus “He’s the Greatest Dancer” and others, has died. She was 60.

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Sonny Geraci, Outsiders and Climax Singer, Dead at 69

The Cleveland native had two very different top 5 hits with two different bands: “Time Won’t Let Me” and “Precious and Few.”

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Beatles Pal “Magic Alex” Mardas Dead at 74

One of the characters who fell into the Beatles’ orbit, he promised them futuristic electronics and even a flying saucer, but delivered little.

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Allan Williams, Beatles’ First Manager, Dies at 86

Before Brian Epstein managed the Beatles, it was a man named Allan Williams who took the young Liverpool band under his wing. He’s now died at age 86

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Sharon Jones, Late-Blooming Soul Star, Dead at 60

The dynamic soul and funk singer who made her first recordings in her 40s has died at age 60. Jones chronicled her battle with cancer in a documentary film.

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Black Crowes Keyboardist Eddie Harsch Dies at 59

The longtime member of the beloved classic rock jam band passed away on the eve of the debut tour by the spinoff band the Magpie Salute.

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Bobby Vee, ’60s Hitmaker, Dies at 73

The singer behind such top 10 favorites as “Take Good Care of My Baby,” “The Night Has a Thousand Eyes” and “Come Back When You Grow Up” is dead.

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Chess Records Co-Founder Phil Chess Dies at 95

The co-founder of the label made famous by Chuck Berry, Bo Diddley, Muddy Waters, Howlin’ Wolf, Buddy Guy and Etta James was 95.

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