RIP Joe Cocker, 1944-2014

I know this is a little late, but Joe inconvenienced us by dying over the holidays. At any rate, a gifted, one of a kind singer and performer. I think what kept him from reaching the top tier of rockers of his generation is that he did not write his own material, instead depending on other songwriters, from legends (Beatles, Randy Newman, Ray Charles) to hacks. He was more a spirited interpreter than musical visionary. But at his best, he was an awesome force of nature.

BELOW: Here is the clip that most people associate with Cocker, but it is still remarkable to watch, both for its passionate performance and his spastic gyrations. Cocker at Woodstock...



BELOW: You've got to watch this one now. It is John Belushi doing his famous Joe Cocker impression. It is remarkable for different reasons. Not only does Belushi take on Cocker's vocals and mannerisms, he also lampoons Cocker's famous drug and alcohol problems. Something Belushi himself knew a lot about. (Unlike Cocker, Belushi was a brilliantly visionary artist). It is cruel, hilarious and brilliant. I believe Paul Jacobs is playing the role of the pompous Leon Russell, who served as Cocker's onstage musical director through part of the 70's. He does a fantastic job doing Russell. Watch the whole thing, it is brilliant.



BELOW: And to show that Cocker had a sense of humor, here's a short clip showing Cocker and Belushi sharing the stage. Who is more Cocker?