Emil Richards (born Emilio Joseph Radocchia), 2 September, 1932 - 14 December, 2019, was an American vibraphonist and percussionist. All his solo records are great but three stand out for me as even more incredible than the others, Stones (1967), Journey To Bliss (1968) and The Spirit of 1976/Live at Donte's (1969). He was on records by everyone from Frank Sinatra to George Harrison to Julie London to L. Subramanian to Frank Zappa.
Was just reminded thanks to Wikipedia that Emil Richards is credited with contributing marimba to “Crackerbox Palace” by George Harrison.
Shamefully, this is the first time I've become aware of Emil. But thanks to alec, I now know and recognise his talent. Another good guy gone...😔
Thanks Alec; I forwarded your post to my friend, Jim Cooper, who is a Michigan jazz vibraphonist.
Which Zappa was he on?