Legendary Joe Cocker Dies Aged 70

Legendary British musician Joe Cocker has sadly died aged 70 after battling lung cancer. With a career spanning 4 decades, the singer is best known for his cover of the Beatles' track 'With a Little Help From My Friends'. Cocker was one of the most prolific artists of his era, the former gas fitter began his career singing in the pubs and clubs of Sheffield before finding fame in the 1960s. Known for his gritty, soulful voice, Cocker also had significant hits with 'You Are So Beautiful' and 'Up Where We Belong' and released an impressive 50 albums over his 40 year career. Tributes poured in for the beloved star yesterday, with his agent Barrie Marshall describing the singer as 'simply unique'. Sir Paul McCartney also paid his respects to his long term friend, stating 'it's really sad to hear about Joe's passing. He was a lovely northern lad who I loved a lot and, like many people, I loved his singing.'

Joe remained active in his musical career in recent years, most notably performing 'With a Little Help With My Friends' alongside Phil Collins and guitarist Brian May at the Party at the Palace concert held for the Queen's Golden Jubilee in 2002. Following this, Cocker also received an OBE (Order of the British Empire) in 2007 for his contribution to music, for which he then played concerts in London and Sheffield to mark the event. Last year saw Cocker achieve a number 1 album in Germany after his European arena tour and also give what was to be his final concert in London in June.

Edgar Berger, who signed Joe to Sony Music Entertainment gave a fitting tribute to the star, 'Joe Cocker is a legendary artist of rock and blues history and yet he was one of the most humble men I've ever met...His iconic voice will forever be etched in our memories and our thoughts go out to Joe's wife Pam and his family at this difficult time. Joe will live on in the hearts of millions of fans around the world.'

Written for www.beat100.com

Alexander McKay Becomes the Newest BEAT100 Ultimate Musician!

Congratulations to London based singer/songwriter Alexander McKay, who has become the latest BEAT100 member to receive an Ultimate Musician Award! Alexander has caught the eye of the A&R team with his latest single 'Chasing Fires' which is currently climbing the World Music Video Chart. It seems that Alexander has music in his blood, he tells BEAT100 'My grandmother was a pianist and I was fascinated how sounds would fill the room and bring a joy of silence and appreciation to an audience. I then set about scratching my Dads record collection as I obsessively studied the greats.' Inspired by music from childhood the young Alexander begged his parents for a drum kit, after being refused he decided to take up guitar which quickly cemented his passion for singing and songwriting. He started performing as soon as he could in various bands and groups throughout his teen years and gradually developed the musical tastes that create his signature sound today.

Playing a mix of Blues, Rock, Country and Folk, Alexander takes inspiration from a variety of established artists. Naming some of his idols as Led Zeppelin, John Mayer, The Black Crowes and many in between, Alexander uses his far ranging tastes when creating his own unique brand of Country Rock music. The talented singer has certainly been making an impression on the BEAT100 community with his latest track 'Chasing Fires'. Recently named Video of the Day, the rustic country feel to the 'Chasing Fires' music video perfectly compliments Alexander's warm and soulful vocals while the catchy chorus has the listener humming along all day. Speaking about his BEAT100 experience so far, Alexander says 'I have had a great experience with BEAT100. It's been invaluable to testing new songs and videos and seeing what another audiences think of my music and helping to grow a following.'

Alexander is currently recording a full length album for a film soundtrack set for production in 2015! This follows his successful debut album 'Brings Us Together' which was released in July this year. It seems 2015 will be a hugely successful one for Alexander, as well as a new album, he is also getting set for brand new live shows and a trip to Nashville for the festival season. BEAT100 wishes him all the best of luck and can't wait to see what is next from Alexander McKay!

Written for www.BEAT100.com