Emitt Rhodes was an American musician, songwriter, and producer who was active in the 1960s and 1970s. He was born on February 25, 1950, in Decatur, Illinois, and grew up in Hawthorne, California.

Rhodes began his music career in the early 1960s as a drummer and later became the lead singer and songwriter of the band The Merry-Go-Round. The band had a hit single in 1967 with "Live" and also released a self-titled album. However, the band broke up soon after, and Rhodes decided to pursue a solo career.

In 1970, Rhodes released his debut solo album, "Emitt Rhodes," which he wrote, produced, and played all the instruments on. The album was a critical success and featured the hit single "Fresh as a Daisy." Rhodes went on to release three more albums: "Mirror" (1971), "Farewell to Paradise" (1973), and "Rainbow Ends" (2016).

Despite critical acclaim, Rhodes struggled with the pressures of the music industry and the personal toll of being a one-man band. He eventually retired from the music industry in the late 1970s and lived a relatively private life for many years.

Rhodes' music has been praised for its catchy melodies, rich harmonies, and introspective lyrics. He is considered a cult figure in the music industry and has influenced many musicians, including the Beatles, Elliott Smith, and Wilco.

Unfortunately, Emitt Rhodes passed away on July 19, 2020, at the age of 70, leaving behind a legacy of influential and beloved music.

1. "Emitt Rhodes" (1970) - This debut album is one of the most overlooked and underappreciated GREAT albums I've ever heard. Emitt Rhodes does everything here...he wrote the songs, played all the instruments, produced it, etc. I think he sounds a lot like Paul McCartney, but his songs are fresh and original. You'll be amazed at the excellence of his songwriting. This is probably the best unknown album you'll ever hear...a true gem...I'm thankful this was finally released on CD. -GSH
2. "The American Dream" (1971)
3. "Mirror" (1972)
4. "Farewell to Paradise" (1973)

1. "Listen, Listen: The Best of Emitt Rhodes" (1995)
2. "Daisy Fresh: Best of Dunhill Years" (1998)

• Emitt Rhodes page (Rocktopia Records)