Walter Becker’s death invites a renewed appreciation of the unique contributions to music by Steely Dan.

As a kid in the ’60s, Elvis Presley’s hit-making era was dim and distant. Blame the Beatles. Blame Oswald. Blame television. But it was true.

I didn’t get decked, and I did ask Glen Campbell to sign my album.

Mike Tiano remembers June Foray, best known as the voice of Rocky the Flying Squirrel. She was 99.

“Perdido” was supposed to be a live showcase for Charlie Parker. Then Ella Fitzgerald – who would have been 100 today – stepped up to the mic.

Mark Saleski makes the case for Arto Lindsay’s take on “Erotic City” as the best-ever cover of a Prince song.

Al Jarreau’s distinctive singing style crossed boundaries, encompassing jazz, pop, R&B, funk, gospel, and even world music.

Alphonse Mouzon was a seminal force in the birth of fusion, and also had a notable impact on rock.

Greg Lake was recording Emerson Lake and Palmer’s “Lucky Man” alone. Then Keith Emerson returned from the pub – and Lake had an idea.

This gravelly marvel of a singer, Leon Russell leaves us as the consummate musician – and a never-ebbing rebel.