Died On This Date (June 1, 2008) Alton Kelley / Famed Psychedelic Rock Poster Artist
Alton Kelley
June 17, 1940 – June 1, 2008

Alton Kelley, was a graphic artist who created some of the most iconic images in rock history. Along with partner, Stanley Mouse, Kelly created the “skull and roses” logo for the Grateful Dead. He was also designed or co-designed album covers or posters for such acts as Steve Miller Band, Journey, Jimi Hendrix, Big Brother & The Holding Company, and Quicksilver Messenger Service. He helped launch concert poster as a legitimate art form. Alton Kelley died after a long struggle with osteoporosis at the age of 67.


Jimmy Murphy was respected virtuoso guitarist, singer and songwriter who made his mark on country and rockabilly during the ’50s and early ’60s. Working as a brick layer during the late ’40s, Murphy found time to make appearances on local radio programs which lead to a meeting with 


Born in New York to Puerto Rican parents, Tito Puente became one of the most influential Latin Jazz and mambo musicians. His energetic albums and performances were revered the world over. After serving in the Navy during WWII, Puente returned to New York and used his GI Bill to study music at the Juilliard School Of Music, thus launching a career that would span 50 years. Over his career, he received five Grammys, the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, the Key to New York City, an induction into the National Congressional Record, a Smithsonian Medal, but perhaps most important, he was immortalized appearing as “himself” in The Simpsons’ famous “Who Shot Mr. Burns” episode. Puente suffered a heart attack following a show in Puerto Rico and died during heart surgery back in New York City on May 31, 2000.
A a member of vocal group, the Jordanaires, Hugh Jarrett added a rich bass to the many classic recordings of