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Joe Osborn, Wrecking Crew Bassist, Passes at 81

Joe Osborn, Wrecking Crew Bassist, Passes at 81
Joe Osborn. Epdavidson [CC BY-SA 3.0], from Wikimedia Commons
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(CelebrityAccess) – Legendary studio bassist Joe Osborn has passed away at the age of 81 following a battle with pancreatic cancer.

During the 1960s and 1970s Osborn, who was a member of the world famous Los Angeles Wrecking Crew, played on recordings by nearly all of the eras biggest stars.

Known for his distinct playing style––Osborn started out as a guitarist and played bass with a pick giving his performances a certain signature energy and bounce––his influence can be clearly heard on song’s like The Mamas & The Papas’ “Monday Monday”, Simon & Garfunkel’s “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” Johnny Rivers’ “Secret Agent Man,” Glen Campbell’s “Gentle On My Mind,” Barry McGuire’s “Eve of Destruction,” Gary Lewis & the Playboys’ “This Diamond Ring,” Neil Diamond’s “Holly Holy,” and the Partridge Family’s “I Think I Love You” among countless others.

Osborn was also known for his early work with Ricky Nelson and The Monkees, in addition to discovering and performing on hits by The Carpenters.

Later in life Osborn relocated to Nashville where he worked with the likes of Chet Atkins, Eddie Rabbitt, Merle Haggard, Reba McEntire, Kenny Rogers, Jimmy Buffett, and Neil Young.

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