Died On This Date (October 29, 2008) Mike Baker / Fronted Shadow Gallery
themusicsover Mike Baker
September 2, 1963 – October 29, 2008
Mike Baker was the lead singer of ’80s progressive metal band, Shadow Gallery. Formed in 1985 as Sorcerer, the band soon changed their name before signing to independent progressive rock label, Magna Carta Records in 1991. Shadow Gallery, and Baker’s vocals had more in common with Judas Priest, Iron Maiden and Queensryche than the pop metal bands that were more in fashion at the time. During the late ’90s, the band formed a kinship with like-minded band, Dream Theater, whose James LaBrie sang on Shadow Gallery’s 1998 song, “I Believe.” Mike Baker, 45, died of a heart attack on October 29, 2008.
What You should Own
Gus Chambers is best remembered as the lead singer for metal band, Grip Inc. Formed by ex-Slayer drummer, Dave Lombardo in 1993, the band was originally signed by powerhouse metal label, Metal Blade Records. The band released a handful of critically praised albums during their run. In later years, Chambers performed with a few other bands, Squad 21, Squealer, and Mantra Sect. Gus Chambers was 50 years old when his lifeless body was found in his home. His cause of death was initially believed to be suicide, but police reports finally ruled he died of an accidental overdose of prescribed medication and alcohol.
Born into a musical family, Dickie Peterson knew from an early age that he wanted to be a professional musician, so he picked up the bass at thirteen and never looked back. In 1966, he helped form Blue Cheer, a San Francisco based psychedelic blues rock band that is considered by many to to be the first “heavy metal” band. Peterson played bass and sang lead in the band. In 1968, they released a heavy electric blues version of 
Don Decker was the lead singer and main songwriter for Anal Blast, the Minneapolis pornogrind/death metal band . Formed in 1994, the band released just two albums, Vaginal Vampire and Battered Bleeding Bitch. Cause of death has not been released, though some reports indicate it may be related to a condition for which he received a liver transplant in recent years. Decker was 41 years old.