Deaths on April 26

Phoebe Snow, American singer-songwriter and guitarist (b. 1950)

Phoebe Snow, born Phoebe Ann Laub on July 17, 1950, and departing on April 26, 2011, was an extraordinary American singer-songwriter and guitarist whose distinctive voice and versatile musical talent left an indelible mark on the music industry. Her career, spanning several decades, showcased a rare blend of blues, folk, and pop, earning her a unique place among contemporary artists.

A Voice Like No Other

Snow's vocal instrument was truly remarkable and became her defining characteristic. The New York Times eloquently described her as a "contralto grounded in a bluesy growl and capable of sweeping over four octaves." This immense range, coupled with her soulful, often melancholic delivery, allowed her to navigate complex melodies and infuse her songs with profound emotion, making her instantly recognizable to listeners.

Breakthrough Hits and Collaborations

Her breakthrough came in 1975 with the release of her seminal hits, "Poetry Man" and "Harpo's Blues." "Poetry Man," in particular, captivated audiences with its introspective lyrics and Snow's enchanting vocal performance, becoming a staple on radio airwaves. Beyond her solo achievements, Snow was also a sought-after collaborator. She famously lent her powerful, credited guest vocals to Paul Simon's iconic track, "Gone at Last," adding a rich, gospel-infused layer to the song that further highlighted her versatility and the respect she commanded among her peers.

Versatility Beyond the Stage: Commercial Jingles and Global Reach

While known for her artistic albums, Phoebe Snow also demonstrated her commercial appeal and vocal adaptability by singing numerous memorable jingles for various U.S. products throughout the 1980s and 1990s. Her voice became synonymous with brands like General Foods International Coffees, Salon Selectives, and Stouffer's, reaching an even wider audience and cementing her presence in popular culture. Her talent transcended national borders as well; Snow achieved significant international recognition, particularly in Australia, where she impressively charted five top 100 albums during the late 1970s and early 1980s, underscoring her broad appeal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was Phoebe Snow's real name?

Phoebe Snow was born Phoebe Ann Laub.

What were some of Phoebe Snow's most famous songs?

She was best known for her 1975 hit songs "Poetry Man" and "Harpo's Blues."

What was unique about Phoebe Snow's vocal style?

Phoebe Snow was known for her exceptional vocal range, described by The New York Times as a "contralto grounded in a bluesy growl and capable of sweeping over four octaves."

Did Phoebe Snow sing for other artists?

Yes, she notably provided credited guest vocals backing Paul Simon on his song "Gone at Last."

Did Phoebe Snow sing commercial jingles?

Indeed, she sang numerous commercial jingles for many U.S. products during the 1980s and 1990s, including brands like General Foods International Coffees, Salon Selectives, and Stouffer's.

Did Phoebe Snow achieve international success?

Yes, she experienced notable success in Australia, with five of her albums reaching the top 100 charts in that territory during the late 1970s and early 1980s.