Died On This Date (June 23, 2009) Steven Wells / Music Journalist; Video Director

Steven Wells
May 10, 1960 – June 23, 2009

steven_wellsSteven Wells was a British music journalist whose aggressive writings appeared in respected music magazines like NME.  During the late ’70s and early ’80s, he touted the greatness of such punk acts as Black Flag and Butthole Surfers and the Mekons.  For a time, Wells was also a stand-up comic, supporting such acts as Gang Of Four and the Fall.  In 1992, Wells co-formed a video production company, directing videos for the likes of Manic Street Preachers and Skunk Anansie.  Steven Wells died of Hodgkin’s Lymphoma at the age of 48.

Died On This Date (February 1, 1995) Richey Edwards/ Manic Street Preachers

Richey James (Born Richey Edwards)
December 22, 1967 – February 1, 1995

richey-edwardsMember of the 27 Club

Richey Edwards was a guitarist and songwriter for the Welsh alternative rock band, Manic Street Preachers.  After graduating from the University of Wales in 1989, Edwards was hired by the Manics as a roadie.  He quickly graduated to rhythm guitarist and unofficial spokesman for the band.  He also became a primary songwriter for the group.  Musically and lyrically, they have been compared to the Clash, U2 and Public Image, Ltd.  Over the years, the group released several albums including the critically lauded Everything Must Go of 1996.  On February 1, 1995,  Richey Edwards simply vanished. Thirteen years later, on November 24, 2008, he was officially pronounced dead.  Although no one knows for sure what date (if any) Edwards passed away, most sources have chosen February 1, 1995, the day he disappeared.  He was 27 years old at the time.

Thanks for Craig Rosen at Number1Albums for the assist.

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The Holy Bible - Manic Street Preachers