AS THE WORLD GOES AROUND: Another one gone

Johnny Grande

'Rock Around the Clock'
pianist Grande, 76, dies'

CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. -- Johnny Grande, an original member of Bill Haley and the Comet who played piano on their hit, "Rock Around the Clock", has died at the age of 76. Grande died Saturday at his home in Clarksville and his funeral was Wednesday night.

Born in Philadelphia, Grande had recorded more than 40 records, including four that went gold. He played on hits like "Rock Around The Clock", See You Later,Alligator", "Rockin' Through The Rye" and "Rockin Around The World". "Rock Around The Clock" was recorded in 1954 and was No. 1 for eight weeks before going on the sell 22 Million copies worldwide. It gained new popularity when it was chosen for soundtracks of the movies, "The Blackboard Jungle" and "American Graffiti" in 1974.

Grande was inducted into the Rockabilly Hall of Fame in 1997. He is survived by his wife and four children.

As a fellow musician and Rockabilly Hall of fame Inductee, I wish to express my deepest sympathy and condolences to the family of Johnny Grande. He was a pioneer of Rockabilly and Rock n Roll piano playing. He was the member on the first Rock n Roll band ever, Bill Haley and the comets. His name "Grande" is very fitting for him as he was "Big" in Rock n Roll and Rockabilly music history. Johnny 's pounding piano strengthened the bass line and inspired unborn generations of piano players (including me) with his awesome signature left hand bass rhythm. I owe my sincere gratitude to him for paving the way for us younger musicians. He rocked the piano. Thank you Johnny! You were truly one of my heroes. He will be missed.