The week in music history brought to you by MusicGoldmine.com.
Just a couple of highlights from this week in music history!
OCT 27: Happy birthday to Simon LeBon! Best known as the charismatic lead vocalist of Duran Duran, LeBon has remained a defining presence in pop and new wave music since the early 1980s. Born on October 27, 1958, in Bushey, Hertfordshire, he developed an early passion for performing, studying drama and honing his vocal skills in school productions and local bands. His entry into Duran Duran in 1980 marked the moment when the group found the perfect frontman who could match their stylish, cutting-edge aesthetic with sharp vocal delivery and star power.
Duran Duran became one of the most influential bands of the MTV era, fueled by Le Bon’s dynamic stage presence and the band’s cinematic music videos. Hits like “Hungry Like the Wolf,” “Rio,” and “Save a Prayer” helped drive a global wave of synth-pop and fashion-forward rock. Le Bon’s strong tenor voice, combined with his enigmatic lyrics, gave the band artistic credibility alongside their commercial success.
Beyond Duran Duran’s peak years, Le Bon has demonstrated longevity and creative evolution. Albums such as Astronaut, Paper Gods, and Future Past reflect his commitment to innovation, while extensive touring has sustained the band’s intergenerational audience. He has also pursued sailing, philanthropy, and occasional collaborations outside the group. Simon Le Bon’s four decades in music showcase enduring artistry, cultural influence, and an unmistakable voice that continues to resonate worldwide.
Photo: Kazza, Mizzo, Lils and Daniel / Karen, Tony and Lilly [https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/deed.en]
OCT 30: Happy birthday to Timothy B. Schmit! Born October 30, 1947, in Oakland, California, Schmit is best known as the longtime bassist and vocalist for the Eagles. Before joining that legendary band, Schmit honed his skills in several groups, including Poco, where his smooth vocals and melodic bass lines helped define the band’s country-rock sound. In 1977, he replaced Randy Meisner in the Eagles, just in time to contribute to their blockbuster album The Long Run (1979).
Schmit’s voice became an essential part of the Eagles’ harmonies, most memorably featured on the gentle ballad “I Can’t Tell You Why,” which he co-wrote and sang. After the Eagles disbanded in 1980, Schmit built a strong solo career, releasing albums like Playin’ It Cool (1984) and Expando (2009), showcasing his warm tone and introspective songwriting.
Beyond his work with the Eagles, Schmit has been an in-demand session musician and harmony vocalist, contributing to recordings by Steely Dan, Toto, Bob Seger, and Crosby, Stills & Nash. When the Eagles reunited in 1994, Schmit resumed his role with characteristic grace, performing on tours and albums such as Long Road Out of Eden (2007).
Respected for his humility and musicianship, Timothy B. Schmit remains one of rock’s most quietly influential figures, blending California cool with heartfelt artistry.
Photo: Derek Russell [https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/deed.en]
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