Don Gardner facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Don Gardner
Don Gardner at the Clef Club of Jazz in Philadelphia in 2012
Background information
Birth name	Donald Gardner
Born	(1931-05-09)May 9, 1931 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Died	September 4, 2018(2018-09-04) (aged 87) Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Genres	Rhythm and blues
Occupation(s)	Singer, drummer, bandleader, songwriter
Associated acts	The Sonotones Richard "Groove" Holmes Dee Dee Ford Baby Washington

Donald Gardner (born May 9, 1931 – died September 4, 2018) was an American rhythm and blues (R&B) singer, songwriter, and drummer. He became famous for his music, especially the 1962 hit song "I Need Your Lovin'" which he sang with Dee Dee Ford.

Don Gardner's Life and Music Career

Don Gardner was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He began his music career in 1947, even while he was still in school. His first recordings as a singer were in 1949.

In 1953, Don Gardner started his own music group called the Sonotones. In this group, he played the drums and sang. The Sonotones traveled and performed in many places.

Working with Dee Dee Ford

In 1960, Dee Dee Ford joined the Sonotones. She was a talented singer and played the organ. Don Gardner and Dee Dee Ford were heard by a record producer named Bobby Robinson. He helped them record a song that Don Gardner had written.

This song was called "I Need Your Lovin'." It became a huge hit in 1962. The song reached number 4 on the Billboard R&B chart. It also reached number 20 on the main pop chart. Many other famous singers later recorded this song, including Otis Redding and Tom Jones.

After "I Need Your Lovin'," Don Gardner and Dee Dee Ford released another song called "Glory of Love." This song also did well, reaching number 75 on the pop chart. Their next song, "Don't You Worry," reached number 7 on the R&B chart.

Later Career and Collaborations

Don Gardner and Dee Dee Ford recorded an album together called Need Your Lovin'. After this, they traveled to Sweden to perform. They recorded a live album there in 1965. This album showed their mix of R&B and jazz music. They also recorded songs with singer Freda Payne.

Later, Don Gardner and Dee Dee Ford decided to work on their own music. Don Gardner continued to perform and record songs throughout the 1960s and 1970s. In the early 1970s, he recorded with Jeanette "Baby" Washington. Their song "Forever" became a minor hit in 1973.

Don Gardner's Legacy and Passing

Don Gardner continued to work as a jazz musician for many years. He was also a big part of the Philadelphia Clef Club of Jazz & Performing Arts. He worked there from 1985, helping to manage the club.

Don Gardner passed away on September 4, 2018, at the age of 87. His music continues to be remembered and enjoyed by many.

Don Gardner's Music Albums

Albums with Don Gardner

• The Don Gardner Trio featuring Jimmy Smith and Bill Davis (recorded 1955, released 1963)
• Need Your Lovin' (Don Gardner & Dee Dee Ford, 1962)
• The Don Gardner and Dee Dee Ford Quintet in Sweden (1965)
• The Exciting Jimmy Smith with the Don Gardner Trio (1969)
• Lay a Little Lovin' on Me (Baby Washington & Don Gardner, 1973)
• Very Best of Don Gardner & Dee Dee Ford (1999)

Albums as a Guest Artist

• Patrick Stanfield Jones - A Heart and an Open Road (2010)

Hit Songs (Chart Singles)