David LaFLamme – It’s a Beautiful Day – Born May 9, 1941
So I’ve spent the last 30 minutes or so thinking and trying to find videos in celebration of Richie Furay‘s birthday. Then I go to Wikipedia and see that Richie was born of May 9th, so I guess those thoughts will have to wait a few days! Today is, however, the birthday of David LaFlamme of It”s a Beautiful Day. Here’s some background for those of you who may have never heard of David from Wikipedia:
David LaFlamme (born May 4, 1941, in New Britain, Connecticut) is a virtuoso violinist in both classical and rock music.
David’s mother was from a Mormon family in Salt Lake City, and when he was eight years old, the family moved there to be near her family. David had already been studying music since moving to Los Angeles at the age of five, and eventually he became the violin soloist for the Utah Symphony Orchestra.
After briefly serving in the U.S. Army, he returned to the music scene in San Francisco in 1962. During the 1960s he performed with a wide variety of notable San Francisco acts, such as Jerry Garcia and Janis Joplin. He first formed the band Electric Chamber Orkustra, and later, an early version of Dan Hicks and His Hot Licks. Then, in summer 1967, he formed It’s a Beautiful Day. An eponymous LP was released by Columbia Records in 1969, containing their biggest hit, “White Bird”.
After a few more albums with It’s a Beautiful Day, LaFlamme went on to work in other acts.Wikipeida
I believe I saw It’s a Beautiful Day when I was in college. It was either on campus or opening for Jethro Tull in Jacksonville. I’m leaning toward the later. I do remember though, that David LaFlamme was awesome!
David is still active and touring this summer he will be touring the UK. Here’s a poster for the August 17, 2013 show in Sheffield!
That poster art takes you back doesn’t it! Anyway, here’s some morning music, “White Bird” and Happy Birthday, David Laflamme!!
