Musicians we loved and have lost this year

Merle Haggard – The "Okie from Muscogee" was the working man's singer/songwriter. Haggard, who had done time in jails and prison, died at the age of 79, on his birthday, from complications of pneumonia.

Phife Dawg – His birth  name was Malik Taylor, and his rap spoke of the truth of his life on the streets. He was 45 when he died.

Frank Sinatra Jr. – The son of a legend, Sinatra Jr. spent his life somewhat in his father's shadow, but in entertainment circles was well-respected or his individual talent. He died with on tour at the age of 72.

Keith Emerson – British keyboardist and founding member of progressive rock band Emerson, Lake & Palmer, Emerson was known for his virtuosity with the Hammond organ and Moog synthesizers. He was 71 when he died.

Joey Feek – Feek and her husband, Rory Feek, came to fame via the CMT show "Can you Duet?" She was 40 when she died of cervical cancer.

Sonny James  – James, a country music singer and Country Music Hall of Fame member, died at 87.

Denise Matthews – Mathews was a protégé of Prince, known by the single name "Vanity." She, too, was 57 when she died.

Maurice White – White founded the popular '70s  and '80s pop group Earth, Wind and Fire. He was 74 when he died.

Paul Kantner – Kantner co-founded the '60s psychedelic band Jefferson Airplane, Kantner wrote many of the group's hits. He died  at age  74.

Glenn Frey – A co-founder of the Eagles, Frey died of complications from arthritis and pneumonia. He was 67.

Dale Griffin – The drummer for the band Mott the Hoople, Griffin suffered from Alzheimer's and died at age 67.

David Bowie – One of the most unique and ever-evolving musicians in music history, Bowie lost his 18-month battle with cancer  at age 69.