Died On This Date (December 9, 1996) Patty Donahue / The Waitresses
themusicsover Patty Donahue
March 29, 1956 – December 9, 1996
Patty Donahue is best remembered as the lead singer of ’80s new wave act, the Waitresses. Formed in 1978 in Akron, Ohio, the band made its mark on pop culture with three catchy songs during the early ’80s. Their “I Know What Boys Like” from their debut album stands today as one of the most lasting and instantly recognizable songs of the era, while their stab at a Holiday song, “Christmas Wrapping,” continues to be an annual favorite at modern rock stations around the world. And in 1982, the group provided the theme song for the now cult classic American TV show, Square Pegs. Much more than a pretty face with a sultry pop voice, Donahue blazed the trail for feminist-centric alternative rockers to follow. That list includes Liz Phair and Ani DiFranco. Following the break up of the Waitresses in 1984, Donahue moved over to the label side where she worked in A&R at MCA Records. On December 9, 1996, Patty Donahue died of cancer. She was 40 years old.
Thanks to Bob Bell for the assist.
What You Should Own
Benjamin Orr is best remembered as the bassist and co-lead singer of popular Boston new wave band, the Cars. Formed by Orr and Ric Ocasek in 1976, the band released a string of multi-platinum albums and hit singles that helped define ’80s pop music. They were also one of the early bands adopted by MTV. Orr sang lead on such hit singles as “Drive,” “Just What I Needed,” and “Let’s Go.” In 1986, he left the group and recorded his solo debut, The Lace, and then left the group the following year. Orr continued to record and perform live in various incarnations up until just a few months before his death. Benjamin Orr, age 53, died of pancreatic cancer on October 3, 2000.
