In Memoriam: Musicians We Lost In 2016 Spotify Playlist

Much has already been said and written about the number of noteworthy musicians who passed away this year. Starting with David Bowie’s unexpected death in early January, as 2016 progressed several more beloved music makers left us. On the final day of the year, the Spotify Playlist below honors 24 musicians who died this year through a collection of the music they left behind.

“Blackstar” the title track to Bowie’s album released two days prior to his death on his 69th birthday begins the 24-track playlist. It’s followed by a song featuring Glenn Frey of the Eagles and a pair of songs by Jefferson Airplane in honor of co-founding members Signe Anderson and Paul Kantner. Earth, Wind & Fire’s Maurice White is represented as are Emerson, Lake & Palmer’s keyboardist Keith Emerson and guitarist Greg Lake.

There’s a track in honor of acclaimed producer and “the fifth Beatle” George Martin as well as one in tribute to Bowie’s regular drummer Dennis Davis. One of the few songs available on Spotify by Prince, his recent single “Stare,” was also chosen. The playlist features bluegrass icon Ralph Stanley and outlaw country legend Merle Haggard, as well as New Orleans great Buckwheat Zydeco. Established singer-songwriters Leonard Cohen, Guy Clark and Leon Russell were also among those being honored.

From the jam scene, Ratdog bassist Rob Wasserman didgeridoo master Dr. Didg, keyboardist Bernie Worrell, The Black Crowes keyboardist Eddie Harsch and vocalist Sharon Jones of Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings sadly passed away in 2016. Also remembered in the below playlist is recently departed singer-songwriter George Michael, founding Beastie Boys member John Berry and hip-hop pioneer Phife Dawg of A Tribe Called Quest.