News

Delaney Bramlett Passes Away At 69

28 Dec 08

Delaney Bramlett, 69, died in Los Angeles on Saturday 27 December 2008 from complications from gall bladder surgery. He was born on 1 July 1939 in Pontotoc, Mississippi. After a stint in the U.S. Navy, he moved to Los Angeles where he established himself as a singer / songwriter. There, he wrote with fellow musicians Joey Cooper, Mac Davis and Jackie DeShannon. Delaney also became a regular on the U.S. TV Show, Shindig, as member of the show’s houseband, The Shindogs. Another member of the Shindogs at this time was the legendar y Billy Preston. During this time, Delaney also worked with J.J. Cale and Leon Russell, releasing some unsuccessful solo singles.

In 1967, he married Bonnie Lynn O’Farrell. They were first signed as a duo to Stax Records, but they expanded the lineup and became known as Delaney & Bonnie & Friends. It was the strength of their second album, Accept No Substitute, (produced by Leon Russell and Duck Dunn) that landed them the support act gig for Blind Faith’s only US Tour. It was during this time that the Bramletts became friends and mentors to Eric Clapton.

A singer / songwriter / producer, he penned many classic rock hits including "Never Ending Song Of Love," and "Superstar" (with Leon Russell). During his career, he also worked with such luminaries as George Harrison, Jimi Hendrix, J.J. Cale, Etta James, Elvin Bishop, the Staple Singers, John Hammond, Leon Russell and others. He also worked with John Lennon, George Harrison, Duane Allman, Dave Mason, Jerry Lee Lewis and Billy Preston.

His most recent solo recording was A New Kind of Blues (Magnolia Gold Records).