Died On This Date (August 15, 2009) Jim Dickinson / Legendary Memphis Producer
themusicsover Jim Dickinson
November 15, 1941 – August 15, 2009
Jim Dickinson was a much respected Memphis musician and producer who is best remembered for his production work with the Replacements, Big Star, Alex Chilton, and Willy DeVille among others. As a musician, he played piano on such landmark songs as the Rolling Stones’ “Wild Horses,” and the Flamin’ Groovies “Teenage Head.” He’s also worked with the likes of Bob Dylan and Ry Cooder. Dickinson also released several acclaimed albums throughout his career. Talent runs in the Dickinson family, his sons Luther Dickinson and Cody Dickinson have a popular band, the North Mississippi Allstars. Jim Dickinson died in his sleep following heart surgery. He was 67.
Thanks to Craig Rosen at Number1Albums for the assist
What You Should Own
Isaac Hayes was a Tennessee-born musician, singer, songwriter and producer who had a hand in some of the greatest soul songs ever produced. Hayes began his music career as a session musician for Stax Records in Memphis where he began writing songs for the label’s roster of artists. With songwriting partner, David Porter, Hayes co-wrote such R&B staples as “You Don’t Know Like I Know,” and “Soul Man,” which has been called one of the most influential songs of the 20th century. By the late ’60s, Hayes started making his own albums, which included the monumental, Hot Buttered Soul, Black Moses, and most famously, the soundtrack to the blaxploitation film, Shaft!. Then title song would become one of the most beloved songs of the era. In later years, Hayes found a new audience as the voice of Chef in the popular animated series, South Park. In 1998, “Chocolate Salty Balls” as performed on the show by Chef became a #1 hit in the UK. And in 2002, Hayes was elected into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame. Isaac Hayes died of an apparent stroke after being found by his wife lifeless on the floor next to his treadmill which was still running. He was 65 years old.
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Although Michael Viner is likely best remembered as a pioneer in the audio books industry, he did make a significant mark on music as well. Viner was a record producer and label executive during the ’70s. While at MGM Records, Viner signed the likes of Debby Boone. As a producer, he worked with