Died On This Date (January 5, 2010) Willie Mitchell / Legendary Memphis Producer
themusicsover Willie Mitchell
March 23, 1928 – January 5, 2010
Willie Mitchell is best remembered as the esteemed producer who helped develop the Memphis soul sound of the ’60s and beyond. Mitchell learned to play the trumpet as a child and by the time he was in high school he was playing in local jazz bands. He soon formed his own band that reportedly performed at numerous New Years Eve parties at Elvis Presley’s home. He later went to work at Hi Records, first as a musician, then a producer, and ultimately running the company. It was under his watch that the label achieved its most success with releases by such legends as Bill Black, Al Green, Ann Peebles, and Mitchell himself. Willie Mitchell, age 81, died on January 5, 2010 as a result of cardiac arrest he suffered in December of 2009.
Thanks to Craig Rosen at Number 1 Albums for the assist.
Jose “Crunchy” Espinosa was a founding member of Los Angeles Latin rock/funk/hip-hop collective, Ozomatli. Formed in 1995, the band, which has counted as many as many as 10 members, quickly became local favorites thanks in part to their highly energetic shows and dance friendly message songs. With a sound rooted deep in Latin folk and lyrics in both Spanish and English, it was no doubt they’d become hometown favorites. The band is also highly regarded for using its popularity to lend a voice to people of struggle. During the 2000 Democratic Convention, Ozomatli staged a large protest concert outside of the event. In 1998 they released their self-titled debut that included the uptempo song “Como Ves” which became a film and TV staple and helped the band build its sizable following outside of Southern California. They have since released several more records, toured the world many times over, and wowed audiences at the biggest music festivals across the United States. Their fans range from lovers of traditional Latin music, Salsa, hip-hop, jamband, and alternative rock. Outside of Ozomatli, Espinosa collaborated with the likes of the Black Eyed Peas, Ubalaye, Money Mark, and the Salvador Santana Band. Jose “Crunchy” Espinosa died of cancer on January 5, 2011.
