Jim Croce

If you haven't heard of Jim Croce, it may be because his death came just as his musical career was taking off.  Even so, if you're old enough to read this page, you've probably heard his music.

Croce was raised in South Philadelphia in the 1940's.  He worked as a welder and construction worker, and didn't get serious with music until he started college.  Even after graduation, he continued to work as a construction worker while doing club gigs with his wife, Ingrid.

After recording an album on his own in 1966, which sold only about 500 copies, Jim was finally recognized and signed by the ABC/Dunhill label, which released You Don't Mess Around with Jim in 1972.   The record included his breakthrough hit, "Time in a Bottle", as well as the hits "You Don't Mess Around with Jim" and "Operator (That's Not the way it Feels)", all songs that have helped carry on his legacy.

Croce's appeal is in the genuine nature of his music, which is upbeat and honest but also gentle and soulful.  His lyrics are sometimes sad, sometimes funny, but always reflect his blue collar roots.  Jim Croce is one guy whose fame never caused him to lose touch with who he was.

That may be because he never had the chance.  Jim Croce was killed at the top of his game in 1973, in a plane crash in Louisiana while on tour.  He is survived today by his wife, Ingrid, who runs Croce's, a restaurant dedicated to Jim and his music, in San Diego, California, and his son, A.J..