Born John Robert, “Joe” Cocker was born in Sheffield, England in 1944. A long time resident of the US, Cocker and his wife resided at a ranch in Colorado.
According to a statement issued by Sony Music, he passed away on Monday, December 22nd after a battle with lung cancer. Cocker is survived by wife Pam, his step-daughter, Zoey Schroeder and two grandchildren, Eva and Simon Schroeder.
John Robert Cocker, known to family, friends, his community and fans around the world as Joe Cocker, passed away on December 22, 2014 after a hard fought battle with small cell lung cancer. Mr. Cocker was 70 years old.
Joe Cocker was born 5/20/1944 in Sheffield, England where he lived until his early 20’s. In 2007 he was awarded the OBE by the Queen of England.
His international success as a blues/rock singer began in 1964 and continues till this day. Joe created nearly 40 albums and toured extensively around the globe.
–Sony Music Statement
Known for his gravely voice and spasmodic body movements while performing, Cocker began his musical career in the early 60s as Vance Arnold in the group Vance Arnold and the Avengers. In 1966 he formed The Grease Band. While the group had reached some acclaim prior to its appearance at Woodstock, it was Cocker’s iconic appearance there that brought him the most notice. After Woodstock, Cocker created his “Mad Dogs and Englishmen” band. He later went on to establish a successful solo career. He recorded some 40 albums.
Billy Shears
I am devasted at the tragic news of Joe’s passing. I knew joe from the late 60s early 70s. A great wonderful man. And a legend in the world of music. A part has been torn from my heart. My thoughts and love are with his loving family at this sad time. R.I.P. My old friend Joe.