John Marshall Alexander, Jr. Budding 1950s superstar, cut down in the prime of his life. You may not know his name but, if you were alive in the 80s, (or are a David Allan Coe fan) you know his music.

Born in Memphis today in 1929, poor Johnny died on Christmas Day only 25 years later. Some say he was playing Russian roulette, some say he was goofing with a gun. Either way, a man died and rock and roll is poorer for it.

Before this cat called himself Johnny Ace he played with the likes of Bobby Bland and BB King. After he was Johnny Ace all he did was crank out chart topping hits, either with The Beale Streeters or on his own.

Back to the 80s, if you have seen Back To The Future you have heard Johnny Ace.