Died On This Date (July 11, 2011) Rob Grill / The Grass Roots
Rob Grill
November 30, 1943 – July 11, 2011
Rob Grill is likely best remembered as the singer, bassist and songwriter for iconic American rock band, the Grass Roots. He fronted the band during its most celebrated years of 1967 to 1971. Born and raised in Hollywood, California, Grill jumped into the music business shortly after high school by going to work at American Recording Studios. It wasn’t long before he joined forces with P.F. Sloan and Steve Barri in the Grass Roots, who went on to chart nearly 30 singles and earn two gold and two platinum albums. In all, Grill played or sang on 16 of their albums and 32 singles. Their hits with Grill included “Let’s Live For Today,” “Midnight Confessions,” and “Sooner Or Later.” After parting ways with the band in the late ’70s, Grill launched a solo career that included a 1979 album with that included members of Fleetwood Mac. During the ’80s, he formed The Grass Roots, Featuring Rob Grill and toured the US and beyond for the better part of the next three decades. Reportedly in ailing health in recent weeks, Rob Grill passed away peacefully in his wife’s arms on July 11, 2011 as they listened to “Let’s Live For Today.” He was 67. Cause of death was not immediately released.
Thanks to Bruce Kilgour and Kevin Walsh for the assist.
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