US blues guitarist Johnny Guitar Watson died of a heart attack while on tour in Yokohama, Japan in 1996. According to eyewitness reports, he collapsed mid guitar solo. His last words were "ain't that a bitch."
During the late 60's Elton John sang on various 'budget' compilation releases including Music For Pleasure Chart Hits albums. Elton recorded as Stevie Wonder, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Brotherhood of Man and sang on a cover version of The England World Cup song 'Back Home.'
Queen drummer Roger Taylor made the most inspired decision during the recording sessions for 'Bohemian Rhapsody'. He locked himself in a recording studio tape cupboard until everyone agreed the B-side could be his song 'I'm In Love With My Car'. Taylor's track automatically sold a copy every time someone bought Bohemian Rhapsody - with consequent royalties.
David Bowie injured his left eye during a fight at school in 1961, resulting in part of the pupil being surgically removed. This makes Bowie's eyes appear to be different colours.
In the late 50's record producer Sam Phillips sold Elvis Presley's recording contract to RCA for $35,000. He invested a large part of the money in an early stake of The Holiday Inn chain of hotels.
In 1973 Paul McCartney was fined £100 for growing cannabis at his farm in Campbeltown, Scotland. McCartney claimed some fans gave him the seeds and he didn't know what they would grow.
