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Terry Kirkman Cause Of Death: What Happened To Founding Member Of The Association?

The music industry has lost another luminary with the passing of Terry Kirkman, the brilliant mind behind the Sixties classics “Cherish” and “Everything That Touches You.” At the age of 83, the world bids farewell to a talented artist whose impact on the music scene remains unparalleled.

Key Details On Terry Kirkman

DetailInformation
NameTerry Kirkman
Age at Death83
Cause of DeathCongestive Heart Failure
BirthplaceSalina, Kansas
Educational InstitutionChaffey College
Known ForFounding member of the Association, Songwriter of “Cherish” and “Everything That Touches You”
Initial CollaborationsInner Tubes, The Men
Major GroupThe Association
Major Hits“Cherish,” “Everything That Touches You,” “Never My Love,” “Along Comes Mary”
Grammy NominationsThree for “Cherish”

A Storied Beginning: Kirkman’s Entry into Music

Born in the heart of Salina, Kansas, Terry Kirkman’s musical journey can be traced back to his education at Chaffey College in California. However, it wasn’t just formal education that honed his talent. A serendipitous encounter with guitarist Jules Alexander in the balmy climes of Hawaii in 1962 set the stage for a collaboration that would soon make waves in the musical world.

Formative Years: Inner Tubes to The Men

Upon relocating to Los Angeles, Kirkman and Alexander embarked on a musical venture, initially forming the group ‘Inner Tubes’. This group boasted of the likes of Cass Elliott and David Crosby. As their collaboration grew, so did the size of their ensemble. Eventually, the group morphed into a 13-member act named ‘The Men’.

The Birth of the Association

1965 saw the dissolution of ‘The Men’, but it wasn’t the end for Kirkman. Alongside five other members, a new group emerged, emphasizing rich harmonies and intricate arrangements. This group came to be known as the Association. With Kirkman at its helm as a singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, the Association belted out hits that still reverberate across time. Notably, “Cherish” stands out, a track that didn’t just earn accolades but also stole hearts globally.

Chart-topping Achievements

Under Kirkman’s guidance, the Association churned out numerous hits, many of which he lent his voice to. Songs like “Never My Love” and “Along Comes Mary” from their 1966 debut album, “And Then… Along Comes the Association”, became instant classics. The latter song, in particular, underscored the group’s penchant for producing memorable melodies, while “Cherish” earned them three Grammy nominations.

The Changing Tides

Despite the incredible success, the early Seventies marked a shift for the Association. Kirkman decided to part ways in 1972, only to return in 1979 when the band reunited. However, by 1984, he opted for a different path once again. The Association’s prowess was cemented in history when, in 2003, they were inducted into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame.

Kirkman’s Noble Pursuits

Beyond the melodies and the limelight, Terry Kirkman had another side to him. He championed the cause of musicians by serving as the clinical director of the Musicians Assistance Program, which later evolved into MusiCares. This endeavor showcased Kirkman’s dedication not just to music but to the well-being of his fellow artists.

In Remembrance

Terry Kirkman’s dying, because of congestive heart failure at his Montclair, California residence, marks the give up of an generation. While the arena mourns the loss, it’s important to celebrate the life of a person whose song transcended barriers and whose legacy will maintain to inspire budding artists.

Terry Kirkman’s adventure from Salina to the degrees of the arena, his evolution from a pupil in California to the founding member of the Association, is a testomony to his ardour, dedication, and sheer skills. His songs, his legacy, and his contributions to the track international will forever echo inside the annals of song history.

About the author

Jack Reuben Fletcher

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