All-Time Greatest Music

I have created a list of 52 famous artists/bands that either folded or struggled after finding out that a key member was no longer with them:

Natalie Anne Merchant (born October 26, 1963) is an American alternative rock singer-songwriter. She joined the band 10,000 Maniacs in 1981 and was lead vocalist and primary lyricist for the group. She remained with the group for their first seven albums before leaving to begin her solo career in 1993. She has since released nine studio albums as a solo artist. Here’s a mix of her recordings: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=RDEMlndPLxfQsr6Iob6MuORkHw&playnext=1&feature=shared.

Maurice was one of the Bee Gee’s key singers and songwriter. In 1969 he left the group to go solo. In 1975, unfortunately, he died at 53 from complications from a twisted bowel whereby he suffered a cardiac arrest. One of their best of many hits was: “Lay It on Me.” https://youtu.be/OUd8LkvgGDU?feature=shared.

Terry was the founder of the group Chicago. He was their lead guitarist and singer. Some say he was better guitar player than Jimi Hendrix. He was known for having unusual behaviors (abusing drugs, etc), including playing around with his collection of handguns. One day (in 1978) he was spinning his 9mm pistol around his finger and pulled the trigger not knowing there was a bullet in the chamber. He died instantly. He was only 31 years old. He had been born in Woodland Hills, CA. One of Chicago’s many hits was “25 to 6 to 4.” https://youtu.be/iPYH4s7_e34?feature=shared.

Patsy was born in 1932 in Winchester, VA. She is one of the few who successfully crossed over from country to pop music. On February 5, 1963, she boarded a Piper Comanche, a small aircraft, piloted by Randy Hughes (her manager with limited experience flying an airplane and was not trained in instrument flying where you need it to fly with limited vision ahead). Two more musicians were aboard (Cowboy Copas and Hawkshaw Hawkins). The airport in Dyersburg, TN warned them of high wind and inclement weather warnings. The plane ended up crashing in a forest outside of Camden, TN killing all aboard including Patsy. She was only 31 years old).

Patsy had a series of top-rated hits including: “Crazy” (https://youtu.be/CKTOvHw8qFM?feature=shared), “Walkin After Midnight” (https://youtu.be/AIoWEhrP1jo?feature=shared) and “I Fall to Pieces” (https://youtu.be/xLEuq2spx5o?feature=shared).

Jim was born in 1943 in Philadelphia. In the 1960s he became disillusioned with music and moved back to his roots in a small town of Lyndell, PA. There during the 1960s he worked many part time jobs and he would play in local venues for $25 per night. These memories created most of the lyrics for his famous songs in the early 1970s. On September 20, 1973 (at the height of his career) he was taking off in a small plane from Natchitoches, Louisiana in heavy fog where the pilot hit a tree at full speed (170 mph). All six people died in the crash. Jim was only 30 years old. Jim left behind many No1 hits including “Time in a Bottle” (https://youtu.be/wNBiH-H5kTw?feature=shared).

Jon was the founder of Deep Purple. Known as one of the best keyboarders, but also played his Hammond-Leslie through special Marshall amplification. Sometimes he played a Moog synthesizer. He regularly would follow legato “call and answer” techniques with their lead guitarist (Blackmore). He tried to infuse his music using the influences of classical music (including baroque fusing). In 1976 the group disintegrated following his departure after playing since 1968. He died in London in 2012 at 71 years old (was born in Leicester, UK in 1941). One of Deep Purple’s better recordings was: “Hush.” https://youtu.be/zk2ci5fi0W4?feature=shared.

John’s career produced 33 RIAA certified Gold albums. He was one of the most popular country singers of all time. On October 12, 1997, at only 53 years old he was killed (no one was with him). He was practicing touch and go landings in his new Katan-Long -EZ home built airplane. Up until then he was experienced with 2,700 hours of flight time. Flight conditions were excellent as well at the time. It is noteworthy that he was flying illegally as he lost his pilots license from having several drunk driving arrests. His autopsy revealed there was no alcohol in his blood. John had recently flagged a serious design flaw in that his fuel gauge was located behind his seat so some thought that he may have been reaching for it and accidentally pushed on the rudder pedal causing the plane to veer.

John’s list of charted songs is too numerous to list. A couple of his signature songs were: “Take Me Home, Country Roads” (https://youtu.be/1vrEljMfXYo?feature=shared) and “Rocky Mountain High” (https://youtu.be/eOB4VdlkzO4?feature=shared).

Tom was the lead singer and guitarist of the Doobie Brothers. He frequently used a melodic humme style while playing which is where he sharply brought his fingers down on the fretboard. He was born in Visalia, CA in 1948. Two factors caused him to leave the band in 1977. One was a bleeding ulcer (in 1975) as well as experiencing growing differences with band members. An example of the music the Doobie Brothers made famous is “Listen to the Music.” https://youtu.be/KsuNmNn1COg?feature=shared.

Sandy sang lead for the Fairport Convention for two years (1968-69). Overall she would display both manic and depression behaviors. On top of that, she was known to abuse both drugs and alcohol. After she gave birth to her only child she would mistreat the baby. In 1969 she left Fairport to pursue a solo career. Ultimately in 1978 she fell down a staircase and experienced head injuries which led to her death at only 31 years old. An example of her work is “A Sailor’s Life.” https://youtu.be/Ygi8v7UcNMs?feature=shared.

Peter was the lead guitarist for Fleetwood Mac. He was quoted saying “I like to play slowly so I can feel every note.” He was born in Convey Island, UK (100 miles east of London). By 23 years old he was known to struggle with mental health issues. In 1977, he died in his sleep from natural causes. One of Fleetwood Mac’s better recordings was: “Worried Dream.” https://youtu.be/31N4mCS6Tu8?feature=shared.

Levi was the baritone lead singer of the Four Tops. He died (in Detroit, MI) from having a massive stroke in 2000 at the age of 64. One of their hit recordings was: “Reach Out I’ll Be There.” https://youtu.be/JoylmpPkEB0?feature=shared.

Paul was the founder and lead guitar for Free. In 1972 he quit Free to form the Sharks. While with Free he was a known user of drugs including Mandrax which was a hypertonic sedative. This caused him to be unreliable. In 1976, on a flight from LA to NYC he had a severe blood clot in his leg which travelled into his lung. As a result, he passed away on the flight. Back in 1970, he was named a One Hit Wonder for: “All Right Now.” https://youtu.be/vqdCZ0yHNa4?feature=shared.

Genesis was formed in 1967 including Phil Collins on drums. As a group, they earned 6 Grammys. Gabriel came aboard in the 1970s. In 1975, he left Genesis and formed Salsbury Hall. He was born in Chobham , UK in 1950. While with Genesis in 1974 they recorded “I Know What I Like.” https://youtu.be/7vyh1UeM57w?feature=shared. In addition to being a musician, Peter also was a champion of world music (from non-western countries) as well as pioneered digital distribution of music.

Jimi played with “The Experience” from 1966-69. He was born in Seattle, Washington in 1942. He was known to be the greatest instrumentalist in rock music history. He is left-handed. Amongst many other things, he synthesized music across genres; experimented with various feedback and distortion techniques; sustained root notes of chords while playing melody at the same time; effectively used amplification with high volume and gain; and fretted the low 6th string root notes with his thumb (instead of barre chord fretting). Then in 1970, while intoxicated with barbiturates, he then experienced asphyxia due to this drug use which led to his death at 27. Overall Jimi recorded 28 singles and 41 albums. One of his most notable songs is: “Purple Haze.” https://youtu.be/WGoDaYjdfSg?feature=shared.

Was the lead singer and songwriter for Heavy Metal Kids from 1972-77. Then moved on to Casino Steel. At only 32 died (in London) from an overdose of morphine combined with alcohol. One of the Heavy Metal Kids recordings was: “She’s No Angel.” https://youtu.be/FHQgtYRNQ-k?feature=shared.

Janis was born in 1943 in Port Arthur, TX and died in Los Angeles in 1970. She used heroine regularly as well as misused alcohol often. She the most successful and widely known rock performers of her era, and was noted for her powerful mezzo-soprano vocals and “electric” stage presence. She was one of the great rockers to perform at Woodstock on August 17, 1969. Her gravelly voice was her trademark. Her lifestyle caused her to live only 27 years. While she recorded more than a handful of memorable tunes, “Piece of My Heart” was known to be her best: https://youtu.be/SCngPse1iiI?feature=shared.

Steve was the lead singer and songwriter for the musical group Journey until 1987. That year he had a hiking accident that resulted in a serious hip injury which kept him off the stage. He also felt the need to spent more time with his ill mother. He was born in 1949 in Hanford, CA. While with Journey, they recorded “Oh Sherrie” that was written about his girlfriend. https://youtu.be/5-WpsdC2-Cc?feature=shared.

In 1985, Steve was one of 21 singers (including Michael Jackson) to record “We Are the World.” https://youtu.be/qdWQ7wZYRtc?feature=shared.

After the demise of the Yardbirds, in 1968, drummer John joined Robert Plant (singer), Jimmy Page (lead guitar) and John Paul Jones (bass guitar) to form Led Zeppelin. Before accepting their offer, he turned down a lucrative offer from Joe Cocker because he liked the music better. His first drum solo “Moby Dick” lasted more than 20 minutes. (https://youtu.be/IOb8otk7Y0U?feature=shared) In September of 1980 he attended rehearsals at the Bray Studios in Berkshire. There he stopped for a “breakfast” where he consumed four quadruple vodka screwdrivers. He continued drinking through the rehearsals until after midnight. He fell asleep where Benji LeFevre (the band’s manager) found him unresponsive to where he suffocated from the aspirated vomit. John was 32 years old. He was born in Redditch, UK in 1948.

Band formed in 1975 in Melbourne, Australia. Glenn was the lead singer. In 1981 Glenn departed to go solo. He was born in 1944 in Chatham, UK. One of their songs: “Help is on the way.” https://youtu.be/pW4NWaJ4Tms?feature=shared.

His given name is Cathay Smyth. Chas was their secondary vocalist, songwriter and played multi instruments. The band broke up in 1986. He was born in Fitzgroves, UK (a south London neighborhood). A classic excellent song of theirs: “Our House.” https://youtu.be/KwIe_sjKeAY?feature=shared.

Junior was the lead singer, pianist and guitarist for Marmalade. He used reverse taping for his guitar. Reverse tape effects are special effects created by recording sound onto magnetic tape and then physically reversing the tape so that when the tape is played back, the sounds recorded on it are heard in reverse. He was born in Scotland. In 1967 the group recorded “I See the Rain.” https://youtu.be/F-d7EXsACCY?feature=shared. He left the group in 1971 because he was tired of touring.

Curt was the lead vocalist, guitarist, primary songwriter, and a founding member of the rock band Nirvana. Through his angst-fueled songwriting and anti-establishment persona, his compositions widened the thematic conventions of mainstream rock music. He was born in Aberdeen, Washington in 1967. “Smells Like Teen Spirit” (https://youtu.be/hTWKbfoikeg?feature=shared) was one of the best of ten charted songs by Nirvana.

During his final years, Cobain struggled with a heroin addiction and chronic depression. He also struggled with the personal and professional pressures of fame, and was often in the spotlight for his tumultuous marriage to fellow musician Courtney Love, with whom he had a daughter named Frances. In March 1994, he overdosed on a combination of champagne and Rohypnol, subsequently undergoing an intervention and detox program. On April 8, 1994, he was found dead in the garage of his Seattle home at the age of 27, with police concluding that he had died around three days earlier from a self-inflicted shotgun wound to the head.

Syd was the co-founder of Pink Floyd. He was a guitarist and singer. Was known for his whimsical style. At 22 years old, in 1968, he left Pink Floyd primarily because his use of psychedelic drugs made him mentally ill. Then in 1972 he left the music industry and lived a well guarded private life in Cambridge, UK (120 miles north of London). One of Pink Floyd’s hits was: “See Emily Play.” https://youtu.be/7c0EDM-Yu9o?feature=shared. Syd died in 2006 at 60 years old from pancreatic cancer.

Otis became known as “The King of Soul.” He was born in Dawson, GA in 1941. He died heading to the Factory Nightclub in Madison, WI in a small plane crash in Lake Monona on December 10, 1967. Ben Conley, the Bar-Kay’s band leader was the only survivor. The other four band members, their valet, and the pilot along with Redding perished. The cause of the crash was never determined. Redding’s most famous hit that remains on the radio today was “Sittin on the Dock of the Bay” https://youtu.be/7C-VscEQugk?feature=shared.

Bill was R.E.M’s (acronym for rapid eye movement) drummer and song integrator. His drumming style was considered to be economical. He also played the piano and the guitar. In 1995, he suffered a cerebral aneurysm while on stage. Then quit the band in 1997 where he remained a low profile lifestyle. One of R.E.M.’s hits (of about 60) was: “Losing My Religion.” https://youtu.be/xwtdhWltSIg?feature=shared.

Left band shortly before tragically drowning in his pool in 1969 at only 27 years old (located in Hatfield, UK about 40 miles south of London). Brian was a founder of The Rolling Stones. He played guitar and helped with backing vocals. Many felt that his alcohol and drug use contributed to the cause of his death. The band produced lots of highly charted songs including: “I Can’t Get No Satisfaction” https://youtu.be/MSSxnv1_J2g?feature=shared, “Get Off of My Cloud” https://youtu.be/1sWqmMAvmdU?feature=shared in 1965 and “Paint It Black” https://youtu.be/EBUFtoC2oj4?feature=shared in 1966.

Neil was the drummer, bassist and songwriter for Rush until 2020. That’s when he died from brain cancer (glioblastoma). He was born in Santa Monica, CA. One of Rush’s notable albums was: “Caress of Steel.” https://youtube.com/playlist?list=OLAK5uy_lownOqwPptvzcpnLmA24k_RMsXPykRJ5o&feature=shared.

Glenn was the Sex Pistol’s bassist and songwriter. He was born in London in 1956 (67 in 2024). Beginning with tension with group members, in 1977 he left the Sex Pistols to go with Rich Kids. Another factor that irritated the group was his constant fetish for washing his feet. One of the Pistol’s better punk songs was “Anarchy in the UK.” https://youtu.be/K07Yq4zGTcI?feature=shared.

Formed in 1969 in Jacksonville, FL. Group had several southern rock hits including the classic: “Sweet Home Alabama.” (https://youtu.be/-35W_FWCT9Q?feature=shared). Eight years later, on October 20, 1977 the band was taking a flight from Greenville, SC to Baton Rouge, LA when it ran out of fuel and crashed. Ronnie VanZant (lead singer), Steve Gaines (guitarist), and Cassie Gaines (backup singer) were killed along with the pilot and co-pilot.

Ronnie was a co-founder and guitarist of Small Faces. He quit the group in 1973 to pursue a solo career. This move was ignited by a disagreement during a recording session. He passed away in 2019 at 75 years old in Chesterfield, UK (300 miles northwest of London). a couple of their hits were: “Itchycoo Park” https://youtu.be/nO9DqvznjrQ?feature=shared and “Stay with Me” https://youtube.com/playlist?list=RDzSQp7YOPdJ8&playnext=1&feature=shared.

Though primarily a guitarist, keyboard player, and vocalist prominent for his distinctive, soulful high tenor voice, Winwood played other instruments proficiently, including drums, mandolin, bass, and saxophone. He was only 18 years old when he wrote “Gimmie Some Lovin” https://youtu.be/BuQ3PaFyb9A?feature=shared. In 1967 he left The Spencer Davis Group to form Traffic. He also performed solo in 1986 singing “Higher Love.” https://youtu.be/LicmJjc7JHc?feature=shared.

Status Quo used to be called Traffic Jam. Rick was their rhythm guitarist, singer and songwriter. Due to being in poor health, he stopped touring in 2016 and shortly later passed away at 68 years old in Marabella, Spain. “Pictures of a Matchstick Man” whttps://youtu.be/3yIqbVDf3OU?feature=shared, charted at No12 along with six more songs.

Marc was T. Rex’s guitarist, singer and songwriter. Considered to be a raw talent and possessing genius ability. In 1977, while being a passenger in a car (he never learned to drive), he was in a car crash that took his life at only 29 years old. This occurred in Barnes, UK. The group produced four No1 recordings including: “Hot Love” https://youtu.be/kKoaHw8gy88?feature=shared and “Get It On” https://youtu.be/TVEhDrJzM8E?feature=shared.

The Beatles were formed in Liverpool, UK in 1960. They are regarded as the most influential rock band of all time. Members were:

John Lennon (died in 1980, married to Yoko Ono, had two children):

Sean Taro Ono Lennon (born 9 October 1975) is an American-British musician, songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist. He is the son of John Lennon and Yoko Ono, and half-brother to Julian Lennon. Over the course of his career, he has been a member of the bands Cibo Matto, The Ghost of a Saber Tooth Tiger, The Claypool Lennon Deliriumand his parents’ group Plastic Ono Band. He has released two solo albums: Into the Sun (1998) and Friendly Fire (2006). He has produced numerous albums for various artists, including Black Lips and the Plastic Ono Band.

John Charles Julian Lennon (born 8 April 1963) is an English musician, photographer, author, and philanthropist. He is the son of Beatles member John Lennon and his first wife, Cynthia, and he is named after his paternal grandmother, Julia Lennon. Julian inspired three Beatles songs: “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds” (1967), “Hey Jude” (1968), and “Good Night” (1968). His parents divorced in 1968 after his father had an affair with Yoko Ono. Around the world he has had eight hit singles. An example: “Too Late for Goodbyes” https://youtu.be/aQs1Ynq0rlk?feature=shared.

Paul McCartney (born in 1942, married to Nancy Shevell, have five children):

Son James has played guitar and drums on some of his father’s solo albums, including Flaming Pie (1997) and Driving Rain (2001), as well as co-writing a few songs. On Flaming Pie he has an electric guitar solo on the track “Heaven on a Sunday”.

George Harrison (died in 2001, was married to Olivia Arias, they had one child – Dhani who wrote scores for movies including “Beautiful Creatures” (https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLqdQ8Q4lC7ApvveEyslheRsnhF7PP0RGJ&feature=shared).

Ringo Starr (born in 1940, is married to Barbara Bach, has three children).

Starr’s oldest child, Zak Richard Starkey, was born on Sept. 13, 1965. Like his dad, he is a talented musician. The Grammy-winning drummer has played and recorded with the legendary rock band The Who since 1996.

The Beatles sound was rooted in 1950s rock and roll as well as classical and traditional pop overtones. Unfortunately, the group split up in 1970. Many reasons are given including the strain from “Beatlemania,” the death of their manager Brian Epstein, resentment of McCartney’s dominant style, and Lennon’s heroine use. Ultimately, Lennon’s murder in 1980 and Harrison’s death from lung cancer in 2001 permanently stopped any possibility of reuniting the famous group. They have sold more than 1.6 billion singles in the U.S. alone (21 reached No1 chart ratings). Sgt Peppers Lonely Hearts Club Band sold 32 million! https://youtu.be/VtXl8xAPAtA?feature=shared.

Each of the band members were successful after the band’s breakup. Lennon and Yoko Ono – “Imagine” (https://youtu.be/YkgkThdzX-8?feature=shared), McCartny and Wings – “My Love” (https://youtu.be/vJcI7ujfgJw?feature=shared), Harrison – “My Sweet Lord” (https://youtu.be/04v-SdKeEpE?feature=shared), and Starr – “It Don’t Come Easy” (https://youtu.be/uCD0fPSsdBA?feature=shared).

Ric was the lead singer, rhythm guitarist and songwriter for The Cars. He left The Cars in 1986 to go solo. He died in New York City in 2019 from hypertensive coronary heart disease. One of his best hits was “Emotion in Motion” https://youtu.be/uVXy7AsjvL4?feature=shared.

Delores was from western Ireland. She lived for 46 years (1971-2018). She possessed a limerick accent with a mezzo soprano voice that included a signature yodel and Irish keening. Severe alcohol addiction and bipolar depression was believed to be the root cause of her drowning death. She recorded two hits in 2007: “Ordinary Day” https://youtu.be/bY2wLycRssA?feature=shared and “Zombie” https://youtu.be/6Ejga4kJUts?feature=shared.

On February 3, 1959 (from left to right) The Big Bopper 28 yrs old ( J.P. Richardson), Buddy Holly 23 yrs old and Ritchie Valens 18 yrs old were killed together in a Beechcraft Bonanza while heading from Mason City Iowa to Moorhead, MN to do a gig together.

Each had individual hits including: The Big Bopper (1958 “Chantilly Lace” https://youtu.be/IhEhCcXTHBw?feature=shared), Buddy Holly (1958 “That’ll Be the Day” https://youtu.be/M4TfFTmITLo?feature=shared) and Ritchie Valens (1958 “La Bamba” https://youtu.be/BycLmWI97Nc?feature=shared).

Jim was the founder and lead vocalist of The Doors. When growing up was subjected to intense discipline from parents with a military background. This led to him disowning his family after going off to UCLA for college (he was born in Melbourne, FL in 1943). He struggled with psychedelic drug and alcohol addiction. This led to erratic behavior on or behind stage. He died in 1970 shortly after being arrested for indecent exposure in Paris (although no pictures were taken). The Doors produced many charted songs including one of the all time best: “Light My Fire” https://youtu.be/qoX6AKuYWL8?feature=shared.

Bernie was one of the founders of The Eagles in 1971. After establishing a track record of heavy drug use, the end of his time with the Eagles was in 1975 where he got upset with fellow band member Glen Frey and poured a beer on him. On top of that, he didn’t like the trend that the band was taking as a “stadium rock” style. He heavily had hoped to bring his bluegrass style back. After leaving a lived a low key lifestyle for over 27 years. He was born in Minneapolis in 1947. During their successful years, “Take It Easy” was one of their best hits. https://youtu.be/s0ZZHNRHA2g?feature=shared.

Glen was the drummer for The Fortunes. In 1966, Glen left to go solo. Just before he left he had a major disagreement with the band during a recording session. Glen was from Chesterfield, UK which is about 300 miles northwest of London. He passed away in 2019 with heart failure at 75 years old. The Fortunes had at least one classic hit: “You’ve Got Your Troubles.” https://youtu.be/-VTz0H01ttQ?feature=shared.

Allan was a founding member of The Hollies. He was also their lead singer along with playing guitar. In 1999, he had serious problems with his vocal chords and retired after that. He was born in Suffolk, UK in 1942. The Hollies had several top charted hits including: “Bus Stop” https://youtu.be/XOI4yAPYmag?feature=shared, “Just One Look,” https://youtu.be/O7MGAVBGP9A?feature=shared, “Look Through Any Window,” https://youtu.be/yXCbDICvoxk?feature=shared, and “Carrie Anne.” https://youtu.be/akd2ivuc_mo?feature=shared. In addition to these four hits they 27 more charted songs.

Hugh was The Strangler’s lead vocalist and played guitar. He was born in Tufnell, UK in 1949. 67 years old in 2023. In 1990 he clashed with the band and left to go solo. One of the recordings of The Stranglers was: “Nosferatu.” https://youtu.be/N-6CZkpaJgU?feature=shared.

David was the lead singer of The Temptations. He was known for his raspy tenor voice. He died in West Philadelphia in 1991. At age 50, he struggled with the effects from cocaine use and was fired for failure to show for an appearance in Cleveland. The Temptations had a series of hits which included the classic “My Girl” in 1964. https://youtu.be/y3KJ7d2qBoA?feature=shared.

David played drums for The Who. His style was eccentric and even often in a self-destructive way. He used double bass drums. He passed out several times on stage from overdosing on the drug clomelhiozole which led to his death in 1978 at only 32 years old (in Mayfair, UK). One of many hits of The Who was: “Won’t Get Fooled Again.” https://youtu.be/UDfAdHBtK_Q?feature=shared.

Roy was a member of the super group Traveling Wilburys. The group was formed in 1988 which is the year Roy passed away. The other members of the Traveling Wilburys were: Bob Dylan, George Harrison, Jeff Lynn and Tom Petty. The group tried to continue as a quartet, we’re dormant in 1991 and never officially reunited. One of their recordings was: “Handle with Care.” https://youtu.be/1o4s1KVJaVA?feature=shared.

Stevie was the frontman and guitarist for his Double Trouble band. They were active from 1965-1990. They played blues rock style music. He was born in 1954 in Dallas, TX. It was known that Stevie struggled with alcoholism and drug addiction throughout his whole life. On August 27, 1990 Stevie and his Double Trouble band mates loaded into a helicopter heading from the Alpine Valley Music Theatre in East Troy, WI where they crashed in foggy conditions. Everyone on board perished. “Crossfire” was their only No1 song (https://youtu.be/F73EcycGCO8?feature=shared).

John formed the band Yes in 1968. He was their lead singer and was renowned for his counter tenor range. In 2004, illness forced him off the road. John was born in Accrington, UK (20 miles north of Manchester). One of their hits was: “Owner of a Lonely Heart.” https://youtu.be/SVOuYquXuuc?feature=shared.

A Guide to Singing Harmony

by MasterClass: June 7, 2021

A solo melody line can be catchy, but there is a special aural sensation when additional notes sound simultaneously with the melody. These additional notes function as harmony, and they can transform a piece of music.

What Is Vocal Harmony?

Singing harmony involves supplementing a vocal melody with additional notes that fit the underlying chord structure. For instance, if a melody sung over an A minor chord features the note A (the root note of the chord), you could harmonize by singing the note C (the minor third of the chord and a minor third above A) or the note E (the fifth of the chord and a perfect fifth above A).

How to Harmonize When Performing Music

To sing harmony or harmonize on an instrument, focus on the chord progression of the song and the scale upon which the melody is based (typically either a major scale or a minor scale).

1. Thirds: The most common type of harmonization is a third above or a third below the melody note. For instance, if the melody of your favorite song calls for the note A over an F major chord, this means the melody is using the third scale degree. To harmonize, you could sing a minor third above the note A (the note C, which is the fifth of the chord) or a major third below the note A (the note F, which is the root note of the chord). Such harmonies are pleasing to the ear in Western music. (https://www.google.com/gasearch?q=singing%20in%20harmony%20in%20thirds&source=sh/x/gs/m2/5#fpstate=ive&vld=cid:babcc703,vid:DaeXZVa0SYs,st:0)

2. Fourths and fifths: Harmonizing notes with perfect fourths or perfect fifths can create a distinctive sound. This type of harmony pairs well with the pentatonic scales of East Asia (https://www.google.com/gasearch?q=pentatonic%20east%20asian%20scaled&source=sh/x/gs/m2/5#fpstate=ive&vld=cid:11c9d9cf,vid:AB22Pj5nFmQ,st:0)

3. Octaves: When male and female vocalists sing unison lines, they usually end up singing an octave apart due to differences in vocal range. Octave harmonies thicken the frequency spectrum, but they tend not to sound quite as thick as harmonies based in thirds or even sixths. Octave harmonies tend to sound denser on string instruments. (https://www.google.com/gasearch?q=octave%20harmonies&source=sh/x/gs/m2/5#fpstate=ive&vld=cid:5096f98f,vid:_6GkPT3zQtg,st:0)

4. Close harmonies: To create the iconic sound of barbershop quartets or vocal pop groups like the Beach Boys, try arranging harmony notes very close to one another. Whether you’re using all chord tones or a few tensions (like a major ninth or a major seventh), you can create a harmonically rich sound—particularly when the close harmonies move together to follow the melody. Close harmonies are famously tricky to sing, and it can take many years of music lessons to master the technique. (https://www.google.com/gasearch?q=close%20harmonies&tbm=&source=sh/x/gs/m2/5#fpstate=ive&ip=1&vld=cid:81430f15,vid:l07ZIapmFwc,st:0)

Many vocalists take singing lessons to learn vocal harmonization, and classically trained singers can harmonize by reading sheet music. Popular music singers may teach themselves to harmonize by ear, which requires a mixture of ear training and natural ability.

For reinforcement purposes, singing groups within this blog have reached high degrees of their ability to harmonize.  I have listened to more than a thousand individual recordings and will reproduce the best of them for your enjoyment.  I have created three levels of professionals that accomplished singing in harmony.  You will find my “best,” my personal ”favorites,”’and the lowest personal rating of being “ok.”  Here they are (listed in no particular order):

My “Best” Harmony song examples (45):

Pentatonix – “Hallelujah” 2016 https://youtu.be/LRP8d7hhpoQ?feature=shared

Queen –“Bohemian Rhapsody” 1975 https://youtu.be/fJ9rUzIMcZQ?feature=shared

Shawn Mendes, Camila Cabello – “Señorita” 2018 https://youtu.be/Pkh8UtuejGw?feature=shared

Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons – “Greatest Hits” 1976 https://youtu.be/pNo2OTI_rIo?feature=shared

The Tokens – “The Lion Sleeps Tonight” 1961 https://youtu.be/OQlByoPdG6c?feature=shared

The Tremeloes – “Silence is Golden” 1967 https://youtu.be/n03g8nsaBro?feature=shared

The Regents – “ Barbara Ann” 1961 https://youtu.be/EDpQY3UW8D4?feature=shared

The Temptations – “Just My Imagination” 1971 https://youtu.be/WNnb1NfLrK4?feature=shared

The Vogues – “Turn Around, Look at Me” 1968 https://youtu.be/xEvZwRJnOnI?feature=shared

The Supremes –“Greatest Hits” 1967 https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL-SWnPeM409DUE_h0003W3e7h6pLxkRhN&feature=shared

The Ronettes – “Be My Baby” 1963 https://youtu.be/jSPpbOGnFgk?feature=shared

The Reflections – “Romeo and Juliet” 1964 https://youtu.be/vne1U03hqG4?feature=shared

The Poni-Tails – “Born Too Late” 1958 https://youtu.be/p64nDdoniIA?feature=shared

The McGuire Sisters – “Sincerely” 1956 https://youtu.be/mACgf6TXI7I?feature=shared

The Lettermen – “When I Fall In Love” 1962 https://youtu.be/RGWJ3lFvSaY?feature=shared

The Hollies – “Greatest Hits” 1973 https://youtube.com/playlist?list=OLAK5uy_k3hHu0_vJHkNROlQxoFk2ZmTlX5LzYVls&feature=shared

The Fleetwoods – “Come Softly to Me” 1959 https://youtu.be/Dkf-Dhihdrc?feature=shared

The 5th Dimension – “Aquarius” 1969 https://youtu.be/VlrQ-bOzpkQ?feature=shared

The Everly Brothers – “Greatest Hits” 1974 https://youtube.com/playlist?list=OLAK5uy_nD_Joyg35Nvg2NEjUpgM6D19eSjX-1pqE&feature=shared

The Eagles – “Hotel California” 1976 https://youtu.be/09839DpTctU?feature=shared

The Diamonds – “Little Darlin” 1959 https://youtu.be/k061Du6eYvY?feature=shared

The Clovers – “Love Potion No9” 1960 https://youtu.be/jRAGwOEnQUg?feature=shared

The Cowsills – “The Rain The Park And Other Things” 1967 https://youtu.be/uC9tALmALh0?feature=shared

The Chordettes – “Lollipop” 1958 https://youtu.be/vRfHfRUS8i4?feature=shared

The Chiffons – “One Fine Day” 1963 https://youtu.be/D0LYs-VqFuw?feature=shared

The Carpenters – “Greatest Hits” 1969-1973 https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLp_G0HWfCo5rP9KmuhTem1PCOT-aAcUsx&feature=shared

The Capitols – “Cool Jerk” 1966 https://youtu.be/R73iEOvkr10?feature=shared

The Bryds – “Greatest Hits” 1967 https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5g1nz_E8ziflXtMJxXZiTvUjXoAMzrNR&feature=shared

The Beach Boys – “Greatest Hits” 1966 https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL2PI3BtEVzA7TfhMFjeseXkYvVJpx__ia&feature=shared

The Beatles “If I Fell” 1964 https://youtu.be/F_80s6S_7Vw?feature=shared

The Association – “Never My Love” 1967 https://youtu.be/32OSn3iNw9A?feature=shared

Spanky and Our Gang – “Sunday Will Never Be The Same” 1967 https://youtu.be/07nK9CXZvAI?feature=shared

Simon and Garfunkel – “Greatest Hits” 1972 https://youtube.com/playlist?list=OLAK5uy_mCB7W0hzu4s61-OmXSVUpALalm91lSfe8&feature=shared

Sagittarius – “My World Fell Down” 1968 https://youtu.be/81skBnAAdcQ?feature=shared

Marty Robbins – “El Paso” 1959 https://youtu.be/5Q9bAWGEkcE?feature=shared

Peter and Gordon – “A World Without Love” 1964 https://youtu.be/ke4hgo43JGc?feature=shared

Aaron Neville & Linda Rhonstadt – “Don’t Know Much” 1989 https://youtu.be/i_ElZaDt2D4?feature=shared

Motherlode – “When I Die” 1969 https://youtu.be/6kd_aElZ3w4?feature=shared

Mercy – “Love Can Make You Happy” 1969 https://youtu.be/0XBqYvzkPzU?feature=shared

Little Anthony & The Imperials – “Hit Medley” 1964 https://youtube.com/playlist?list=RDiFHpGkbKHDo&playnext=1&feature=shared

Mamas and Papas – “Greatest Hits” 1998 https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLrtPMuiedcKo3nzeH8beFWM6Sp2KCu11V&feature=shared

Jan and Dean – “The Little Old Lady (From Pasadena)” 1964 https://youtu.be/jVTybxyBspM?feature=shared

Dion and the Belmonts – “A Teenager in Love” 1959 https://youtu.be/yL0NBJuUjUM?feature=shared

Kingston Trio – “The Tijuana Jail” 1963 https://youtu.be/Smyv_nF7Ybc?feature=shared

Mimi and Josi – “Creep” 2019 (The Voice winners) https://youtube.com/shorts/4FAGUVpA_c0?feature=shared

Quorum – “Them There Eyes” 2023 https://youtu.be/63a04A7WV6k?feature=shared

My “Favorites” harmony song examples (37):

Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell – “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” 1967 https://youtu.be/-C_3eYj-pOM?feature=shared

Steve Lawrence and Eydie Gorme – “Baby It’s Cold Outside” 1960 https://youtu.be/Z77Jyh2UuC8?feature=shared

The Zombies – “She’s Not There” 1965 https://youtu.be/ieWZpXPuIhU?feature=shared

We Five – “You Were On My Mind” 1965 https://youtu.be/c7YSANg8vgw?feature=shared

The Spiral Starecase – “More Today Than Yesterday” 1969 https://youtu.be/89eEa3RvCF4?feature=shared

The New Seekers – “I’ll Never Find Another You” 1964 https://youtu.be/pBaO6ro1CUc?feature=shared. “I’d Like to Teach the World to Sing” 1971 https://youtube.com/shorts/m2pgQUABpJI?feature=shared

The Shagri-Las – “Remember (Walkin’ In The Sand)” 1965 https://youtu.be/E1GiqcQ3aoQ?feature=shared

The Rolling Stones – “Greatest Hits” 2012 https://youtu.be/glyMqEwW5tQ?feature=shared

Lovin Spoonful – “Good Lovin” 1966 https://youtu.be/t3CQ-5MeRwY?feature=shared

The Monkees – “Daydream Believer” 1967 https://youtu.be/xvqeSJlgaNk?feature=shared

The Left Bank – “Walk Away Renee” 1967 https://youtu.be/qDfrW5cWqMU?feature=shared

The Four Aces – “Love Is A Many-Splendored Thing” 1981 https://youtu.be/cCFftG60A7M?feature=shared

The Happenings – “See You in September” 1966 https://youtu.be/tyYP8G2wc_s?feature=shared

The Five Satins – “In The Still of the Night” 1956 https://youtu.be/AwbXeB-Hpss?feature=shared

The Exciters – “Tell Him” 1962 https://youtu.be/6ajcWXyDv6A?feature=shared

The Dells – Oh What A Night” 1959 https://youtu.be/eD7RiUTWUj4?feature=shared

The Critters – “Mr. Dieingly Sad” 1966 https://youtu.be/HV4Tq1ZJZzs?feature=shared

The Crew Cuts – “Earth Angel” 1954 https://youtu.be/–8_OFubJLM?feature=shared

The Cascades – “Rhythm of the Rain” 1963 https://youtu.be/U0DbYAaZcwU?feature=shared

The American Breed – “Bend Me, Shape Me” 1968 https://youtu.be/PSHo146tQjQ?feature=shared

The Staple Singers – “I’ll Take You There” 1972 https://youtu.be/qXvirzznSn4?feature=shared

Small Faces – “Itchycoo Park” 1968 https://youtu.be/nO9DqvznjrQ?feature=shared

Merilee Rush – “Angel of the Morning” 1968 https://youtu.be/joQUUE8Wc9M?feature=shared

Righteous Brothers – “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin'” 1965 https://youtu.be/xbg1gkWb0Wo?feature=shared

Lemon Pipers – “Green Tambourine” 1968 https://youtu.be/o6IEgrQ4lrk?feature=shared

Jay and the Techniques – “Apples, Peaches, Pumpkin Pie” 1966 https://youtu.be/jEPSrdA8kbY?feature=shared

Michael Jackson – “Will You Be There” 1991 https://youtu.be/jQY_QL_wvQU?feature=shared

Danny and the Juniors – “At The Hop” 1990 https://youtu.be/SEPvoNA1OGw?feature=shared

Crosby, Stills and Nash – “Greatest Hits” 2005 https://youtu.be/IHL-6cUtZj0?feature=shared

Chad and Jeremy – “ A Summer Song” 1964 https://youtu.be/ur5pvFCZnaU?feature=shared

Brooklyn Bridge – “Worst That Could Happen” 1968 https://youtu.be/tbNC7a_mdgY?feature=shared

Peter, Paul and Mary – “Puff, the Magic Dragon” 1963 https://youtu.be/s26e_86-K0k?feature=shared

Liam Payne, Lennon Stella and Jonas Blue – “Polaroid” 2018 https://youtu.be/xdrV2c49Vhc?feature=shared

Equip to Overcome and Marina Simioni – “Subtitulado” 2019 VOICE UK. https://youtu.be/P0eLzC2jAtk?feature=shared

Louis Prima and Keely Smith – “That Old Black Magic” 1958 https://youtu.be/02lsKQxpUP8?feature=shared

Peppermint Rainbow – “Will You Be Staying After Sunday” 1969 https://youtu.be/PZYLxrqKG-s?feature=shared

Songs that I rated as “OK” for use of harmony (41):

Elton John and Brian Wilson – “Wouldn’t It Be Nice” 2001 https://youtu.be/L5N1B-gESSQ?feature=shared

Bill Anderson and Jan Howard – “For Loving You” 1967 https://youtu.be/oREo5i_fNPM?feature=shared

George Michael and Aretha Franklin – “I Knew You Were Waiting (For Me)” 1986 https://youtu.be/fDxzQJaA228?feature=shared

Cassandra and Callahan Star (sisters) – “A Christmas Hallelujah” 2021 https://youtu.be/XUJRZRymd1I?feature=shared

U2 – “I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For” 1987 https://youtu.be/e3-5YC_oHjE?feature=shared

Maurice Williams – “Stay” 1960 https://youtu.be/mSI6zlUeeCA?feature=shared

The Teddy Bears – “To Know Him Is To Love Him” 1958 https://youtu.be/DVieaWu0sLg?feature=shared

The Royal Teens – “Short Shorts” 1958 https://youtu.be/xh1FvPAP6Kk?feature=shared

The Royal Jesters – “We Go Together” 1965 https://youtu.be/qEQgw1xFqXI?feature=shared

The Rip Chords – “Hey Little Cobra” 1964 https://youtu.be/FqAen8PJ064?feature=shared

The Playmates – “Beep Beep” 1960 https://youtu.be/5DPBfbSgqbY?feature=shared

The Platters – “The Great Pretender” 1955 https://youtu.be/RBj2HN2uuNA?feature=shared

The Orions – “Wah Watusi” 1962 https://youtu.be/IRvFaGIO2Gc?feature=shared

The Ink Spots – “Address Unknown” 1955 https://youtu.be/vtcq5T8VV8s?feature=shared

The Jamies – “Summertime, Summertime” 1958 https://youtu.be/zzTi7HiFBVc?feature=shared

The Impalas – “Sorry (I Ran All the Way Home)” 1959 https://youtu.be/FuomHDGXzDI?feature=shared

The Gentrys – “Keep On Dancing” 1965 https://youtu.be/AGHFaBx6j8M?feature=shared

The Foundations – “Build Me Up Buttercup” 1968 https://youtu.be/hSofzQURQDk?feature=shared

The Five Royales – “Think” 1957 https://youtu.be/ikugCjrfcB8?feature=shared

The Danleers – “One Summer Night” 1958 https://youtu.be/IvewtgXk2oc?feature=shared

The Delfonics – “La-La Means I Love You” 1968 https://youtu.be/OIqAcijqWOg?feature=shared

The Crests – “Sixteen Candles” 1958 https://youtu.be/qeEeyCON2cU?feature=shared

The Buckinghams – “Don’t You Care” 1967 https://youtu.be/IFJ2vnwRRBk?feature=shared

The Spencer Davis Group – “Gimme Some Lovin” 1967 https://youtu.be/BuQ3PaFyb9A?feature=shared

Sonny and Cher – “I Got You Babe” 1965 https://youtu.be/pwHSBCME49k?feature=shared

Judee Sill – “The Kiss“ 1971 https://youtu.be/kyPhvHEtRuw?feature=shared

Shirley and Lee – “I’m Gone” 1956 https://youtu.be/h5eJ5ttnDbs?feature=shared

Ronald and Ruby – “Lollipop” 1958 https://youtu.be/zzcwn2QHkDM?feature=shared

Paul Revere and the Raiders – “Good Thing” 1966 https://youtu.be/Gn7NfuZ7QoE?feature=shared

Gary Puckett and the Union Gap – “Woman Woman” 1968 https://youtu.be/0Mqsnx2E3ys?feature=shared

New Seekers – “I’d Like to Teach the World to Sing” 1971 https://youtu.be/koBiXquzmr8?feature=shared

Mickey & Sylvia – “Love Is Strange” 1955 https://youtu.be/5SwMB9v1pQ4?feature=shared

Maroon 5 – “Greatest Hits“ 2023 https://youtu.be/P1SRJKRfsVA?feature=shared

Jay and the Americans – “Come A Little Bit Closer” 1964 https://youtu.be/RF7z3sW8nGA?feature=shared

Every Mother’s Son – “Come On Down To My Boat” 1967 https://youtu.be/t8dU4RKNNBo?feature=shared

Gene and Eunice – “Ko Ko Mo” 1954 https://youtu.be/7h9dej-4-wE?feature=shared

Flying Machine – “Smile A Little Smile For Me” 1969 https://youtu.be/fkDrkspVjrI?feature=shared

Dale and Grace – “I’m Leaving It All Up To You” 1962 https://youtu.be/RBhGIH9c4TI?feature=shared

Creedence Clearwater Revival – “Greatest Hits” 1976 https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLtzV2248lUVVwS3LSMsWlCBKZ2h4Gs8IP&feature=shared

Chad Mitchell Trio – “The Marvelous Toy” 1963 https://youtu.be/NZeUDAoNrvQ?feature=shared

Buffalo Springfield – “For What It’s Worth” 1966 https://youtu.be/CXvyq4SyDwU?feature=shared