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Rob Buck
RobBuck.jpg
Buck in 1997
Background information
Birth name Robert Norman Buck
Born (1958-08-01)August 1, 1958
Jamestown, New York, U.S.
Died December 19, 2000(2000-12-19) (aged 42)
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Genres Rock, alternative rock
Occupation(s) Musician, songwriter
Instruments Guitar
Years active 1981–2000
Associated acts 10,000 Maniacs

Robert Norman Buck (born August 1, 1958 – died December 19, 2000) was an American guitarist. He was one of the people who started the alternative rock band 10,000 Maniacs. Rob Buck helped write some of the band's most famous songs with Natalie Merchant. These songs include "What's the Matter Here", "Hey Jack Kerouac", "You Happy Puppet", and "These Are Days".

Who Was Rob Buck?

Rob Buck was a talented musician best known for his guitar playing. He was a key part of the band 10,000 Maniacs, helping to create their unique sound. His music touched many people and continues to be enjoyed today.

Early Life and Music

Rob Buck was born on August 1, 1958, in Jamestown, New York. He finished high school in 1976. Later, he studied anthropology at Jamestown Community College. Rob decided he wanted to be a professional guitarist after watching a movie about the famous musician Jimi Hendrix.

His Time with 10,000 Maniacs

In 1981, Rob Buck, along with Dennis Drew, Steven Gustafson, John Lombardo, and Natalie Merchant, formed the band 10,000 Maniacs. Rob was the lead guitarist for the group.

The band's music, which was a mix of folk-rock, became very popular with college students. Their 1987 album, In My Tribe, sold over a million copies. In 1989, their album Blind Man's Zoo reached number 13 on the U.S. music charts. It also earned a "gold" certification, meaning it sold many copies. Rob Buck helped write some of the band's most well-known songs. These include "These Are Days", "Hey Jack Kerouac", and "What's the Matter Here?". He even performed with the band at a special event called the Inaugural Ball in 1993. That same year, the band was featured in Rolling Stone magazine.

A Talented Guitarist

Rob Buck was recognized for his skill on the guitar. Guitar Player magazine, a well-known publication for guitarists, listed him as one of the 100 greatest guitarists of all time. This shows how much his talent was respected in the music world.

Later Life

Rob Buck was married to Terri Newhouse from 1979 to 1981.

Sadly, Rob Buck passed away on December 19, 2000, at the age of 42. He had been dealing with serious health problems. He was taken to a hospital in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where he died about three weeks later.

Rob Buck's Music Albums

Here are some of the albums Rob Buck made with 10,000 Maniacs and other projects:

With 10,000 Maniacs
  • Human Conflict Number Five (1982)
  • Secrets of the I Ching (1983)
  • The Wishing Chair (1985)
  • In My Tribe (1987)
  • Blind Man's Zoo (1989)
  • Hope Chest: The Fredonia Recordings 1982–1983 (1990)
  • Our Time in Eden (1992)
  • MTV Unplugged (1993)
  • Love Among the Ruins (1997)
  • The Earth Pressed Flat (1999)
  • Campfire Songs: The Popular, Obscure and Unknown Recordings (2004)
Other music projects
  • Victory Gardens (1991) with John & Mary – played lead guitar and mandolin
  • The Weedkiller's Daughter (1993) with John & Mary – played lead guitar
  • The Pinwheel Galaxy (2003) with John & Mary – played backwards guitar
  • Kerouac: Kicks Joy Darkness (2000)
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