The Story Of 7 Rock Legends That Died In The ’60s

The 1960s gave us some of the greatest rock icons of all time, like The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and The Beach Boys. But it was also a decade marked by tragedy, with the untimely loss of many talented musicians. Here’s a look at seven legendary artists whose deaths shook the music world during the 60s.

Eddie Cochran
Eddie Cochran was one of rock and roll’s early pioneers, famous for songs like “Summertime Blues” and “C’mon Everybody.” Born on October 3, 1938, in Albert Lea, Minnesota, his music influenced countless future artists and helped shape the sound of early rock. Sadly, while on tour in the UK, Eddie’s life was cut short when he died from severe brain injuries following a car accident on April 17, 1960. He was just 21 years old.

Stuart Sutcliffe
Stuart Sutcliffe, born on June 23, 1940, in Edinburgh, Scotland, was the original bassist for The Beatles. He played a major role in the band’s early days but eventually left to focus on his passion for art. Though his time with The Beatles was brief, his impact was long-lasting. Stuart died suddenly on April 10, 1962, from cerebral paralysis at the young age of 21, leaving his bandmates devastated.

Dinah Washington
Dinah Washington, originally born Ruth Lee Jones on August 29, 1924, in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, was one of the most celebrated vocalists of her era. Known for hits like “What A Difference A Day Makes” and “September In The Rain,” Dinah’s voice captivated audiences worldwide. She was posthumously inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Tragically, on December 14, 1963, Dinah passed away at 39 due to an accidental overdose of sleeping pills and alcohol.

Sam Cooke
Known as the “King of Soul,” Sam Cooke was a trailblazer in soul music with hits like “You Send Me” and “Bring It On Home to Me.” Born on January 1, 1931, in Clarksdale, Mississippi, Cooke made an indelible mark on the music industry. However, his life ended tragically on December 11, 1964, when he was fatally shot in a controversial incident at a motel. He was only 33 years old.

Brian Epstein
Brian Epstein, born on September 19, 1934, in Liverpool, England, was the brilliant manager behind The Beatles’ rise to international fame. He played a critical role in shaping their image and success. Unfortunately, Brian’s life ended on August 27, 1967, when he died from an accidental overdose of barbiturates and brandy. His passing at age 32 left a void in The Beatles’ lives and the music industry as a whole.

Otis Redding
Otis Redding, born on September 9, 1941, in Dawson, Georgia, was a soul legend known for unforgettable songs like “Dock of the Bay” and “Try A Little Tenderness.” His emotionally powerful voice earned him a place in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. On December 10, 1967, at just 26 years old, Otis died in a tragic plane crash, cutting short a career that was just beginning to soar.

Brian Jones
Brian Jones, born on February 28, 1942, in Cheltenham, England, was the founder and original leader of The Rolling Stones. He was the creative genius behind the band’s early sound, but personal struggles led him to leave the band in 1969. Just weeks later, on July 3, 1969, Brian tragically drowned in his swimming pool, becoming one of the earliest members of the infamous “27 Club.”