Bo Diddley Bo Diddley Ellas McDaniel (born Ellas Otha Bates, December 30, 1928 – June 2, 2008), known as Bo Diddley, was an American singer, guitarist, songwriter and music producer who played a key role in the transition from the blues to rock and roll. He influenced many artists, including Elvis Presley, the Beatles, the Rolling Stones, and the Clash. His use of African rhythms and a signature beat, a simple five-accent hambone rhythm, is a cornerstone of hip hop, rock, and pop music. In recognition of his achievements, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and received
Otha Young Hot 100 biggest hits. Other Otha Young-penned Top-10 hits include "Sweet, Sweet Smile" (The Carpenters, 1978), "Don't You" (Forester Sisters, 1987) and "What Can I Do With My Heart?" (Juice Newton, 1986). Otha Young died on August 6, 2009 at Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center from lung cancer. He was 66 years old. Otha is survived by his wife, Brenda, and their daughter, Makena. Otha Young Otha Young (a.k.a. Robert Otha Young) (May 10, 1943 – August 6, 2009) was an American singer, songwriter, guitarist, producer and the longtime musical partner of Grammy Award-winning country-pop artist Juice Newton. Otha was