Singer-songwriter J.J. Cale dead at 74
The songwriter behind Eric Clapton classics such as ‘Cocaine’ and ‘After Midnight’ was revered for pioneering the ‘Tulsa Sound.’
By Gerrick D. Kennedy
J.J. Cale, the songwriter behind Eric Clapton classics such as “Cocaine” and “After Midnight,” died Friday at the age of 74.
The singer-songwriter’s official website confirmed Cale passed away at Scripps Hospital in La Jolla after suffering a heart attack Friday night.
Born John Weldon Cale in Oklahoma City, he’s revered for pioneering the “Tulsa Sound,” a blend of rockabilly, country, jazz and blues.
Cale, who scored minor solo hits like “Crazy Mama” and “Lies,” is better known for tunes like “After Midnight” and “Cocaine” which Clapton covered and turned into smashes.