Wednesday, April 25: Tig’s Rock Birthdays

Happy Birthday today (April 25) to former Janes Addiction bassist Eric Avery. He’s 53. Also celebrating is CCR bassist Stu Cook (73).

Jane’s Addiction formed in 1985 out of Los Angeles, California and with the lineup of Perry Farrell on vocals along with guitarist Dave Navarro, drummer Stephen Perkins, and Eric Avery on bass. Avery was with the band from the beginning until their initial split in 1991. He rejoined the band 2008 but left again in 2010. The band had success during the early 90’s alternative rock movement and released two albums on Warner Bros. Records, Nothing’s Shocking and Ritual de lo habitual. Jane’s Addiction is considered by many to be one of the most influential rock of alternative music. Some bands that have been influenced by them include Tool, Korn, The Smashing Pumpkins, Limp Bizkit, Candlebox, P.O.D., Stabbing Westward, Incubus, and System of a Down, among others. For more on Jane’s Addiction, check out the band’s official website here.

Creedence Clearwater Revival was active from 1967 to 1972 with Stu Cook on bass, John Fogerty on lead vocals and guitar, Tom Fogerty on guitar, and Doug Clifford on drums. 1968 saw the release of the band’s self-titled debut album and their first single “Suzie Q”. Many other albums and singles followed including the hit “Proud Mary” off the album Bayou Country. Creedence Clearwater Revival sold 26 million albums in the U.S. alone and were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1993. Stu Cook once auditioned for the bassist position in the Rolling Stones after the departure of Bill Wyman. In 1995, Cook and Doug Clifford form Creedence Clearwater Revisited, a band that performs the music of Creedence Clearwater Revival.

Cheers to Eric Avery and Stu Cook today. A couple of rockin bassists!