8 Classic Rock Artists You Might Not Know Passed Away in the 90s
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The 1990s saw the loss of several influential rock musicians whose contributions left a lasting impact on music. While some of these artists’ deaths were widely publicized, others may have gone unnoticed by many fans. This list highlights eight classic rock artists who passed away during that decade.
1. Andrew Wood – Mother Love Bone
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Andrew Wood was the lead singer of Mother Love Bone, a band that played a significant role in the early grunge scene. He struggled with drug addiction and checked into rehab in 1989. Tragically, Wood died on March 19, 1990, at the age of 24, after a heroin overdose left him in a coma.
His death occurred just days before the scheduled release of the band’s debut album, “Apple.” Wood’s passing had a profound effect on the Seattle music community and inspired the formation of the band Temple of the Dog, which included members of Pearl Jam and Soundgarden.
2. Allen Collins – Lynyrd Skynyrd
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Allen Collins was a guitarist for Lynyrd Skynyrd, known for co-writing songs like “Free Bird.” In 1986, he was paralyzed in a car accident. Collins died on January 23, 1990, at the age of 37, from complications of pneumonia.
Despite his health challenges, Collins remained involved in music until his death. His guitar work continues to influence Southern rock musicians, and his contributions to Lynyrd Skynyrd’s sound are still celebrated today.
3. Tom Fogerty – Creedence Clearwater Revival
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Tom Fogerty was the rhythm guitarist for Creedence Clearwater Revival and the older brother of frontman John Fogerty. After leaving the band in 1971, he pursued a solo career. Tom died on September 6, 1990, at the age of 48, due to complications from AIDS, which he contracted from a blood transfusion.
His death marked a somber chapter in the band’s history. Despite personal and professional differences, Tom’s contributions to CCR’s success remain significant, and his rhythm guitar work helped define the band’s distinctive sound
4. Steve Marriott – Small Faces
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Steve Marriott was the frontman for the Small Faces and later Humble Pie. He was known for his powerful voice and energetic performances. Marriott died on April 20, 1991, at the age of 44, in a house fire caused by a cigarette.
His death was ruled accidental, with substances like alcohol and Valium found in his system. Marriott’s influence on British rock and his dynamic stage presence left a lasting legacy in the music world.
5. Eric Carr – KISS
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Eric Carr joined KISS in 1980, replacing original drummer Peter Criss. He brought a new energy to the band with his powerful drumming style. Carr died on November 24, 1991, at the age of 41, from heart and lung cancer.
His death coincided with that of Freddie Mercury, leading to less media attention. Despite this, Carr is remembered fondly by fans for his contributions to KISS during a transformative period in the band’s history.
6. Jeff Porcaro – Toto
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Jeff Porcaro was a founding member and drummer for Toto, known for his precise and versatile drumming. He also worked as a session musician for many artists. Porcaro died on August 5, 1992, at the age of 38, from a heart attack caused by hardening of the arteries due to cocaine use.
His sudden death shocked the music community. Porcaro’s drumming continues to be studied and admired, and his work remains influential in both rock and pop music circles.
7. Jeff Buckley
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Jeff Buckley was a singer-songwriter known for his wide vocal range and emotional performances. His 1994 album “Grace” received critical acclaim. Buckley died on May 29, 1997, at the age of 30, after accidentally drowning in the Wolf River in Memphis, Tennessee.
At the time of his death, Buckley was working on his second album. His music has continued to gain recognition posthumously, with his rendition of “Hallelujah” becoming particularly iconic.
8. Rick Danko – The Band
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Rick Danko was the bassist and a vocalist for The Band, contributing to their unique sound. He passed away in his sleep on December 10, 1999, at the age of 56, due to heart failure.
Danko’s death marked the end of an era for The Band. His contributions to music, particularly in blending rock with Americana and folk influences, continue to be celebrated by fans and musicians alike.
