… of Joan Didion and Calvin Trillin, two of America’s finest writers, both of whom have written movingly about the loss of their spouse. Didion is 72 and Trillin is 71.
Another writer born on this date is becoming a septuagenarian today. That’s James Lee Burke, author of the “Dave Robicheaux” detective novels.
The Writer’s Almanac has brief essays today about Burke, Trillin and Didion.
Richard Penniman was born 72 years ago today.
He claims to be “the architect of rock and roll,” and history would seem to bear out Little Richard’s boast. More than any other performer – save, perhaps, Elvis Presley, Little Richard blew the lid off the Fifties, laying the foundation for rock and roll with his explosive music and charismatic persona. On record, he made spine-tingling rock and roll. His frantically charged piano playing and raspy, shouted vocals on such classics as “Tutti Frutti,” “Long Tall Sally” and “Good Golly, Miss Molly” defined the dynamic sound of rock and roll. Onstage, he’d deliver wild, piano-pounding epistles while costumed in sequined vests, mascara, lipstick, and a pompadour that shook with every thundering beat. (Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum)
J.J. Cale is 68. The author of “Cocaine” and “After Midnight” has a great new album with Eric Claption.
Frankie Muniz is 21 today. Party On Malcolm.