Buffalo Native, Cory Wells, one of three principal of the '60s-formed band Three Dog Night, died on Oct. 20, according to a statement released by the band.
"It is with deep sadness and disbelief that I must report the passing of Cory Wells, my beloved band mate for over 45 years," said Danny Hutton, among the group's other key vocalists, along with Chuck Negron. "Cory was an incredible singer -- a great performer, he could sing anything," Hutton added.
Though the cause of death wasn't specified, the statement said that Wells had died "unexpectedly," and noted that he had been performing with the band through September, when he "developed a problem with severe back pain."
Three Dog Night became best known for its recordings of other songwriters' material, and often of tunes that had previously been covered by other noted artists (though with less popular success). Its version of Randy Newman's Mama Told Me (Not To Come)was a No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1970. The group topped the chart again the following year, with perhaps its best-loved recording, of Hoyt Axton's Joy To The World, and in 1972, with Black And White (David I. Arkin, Earl Robinson).
The band also recorded songs by Harry Nilsson, Laura Nyro and Elton John, and enjoyed 21 Top 40 hits on the Billboard Hot 100 overall.
"Cory was like a brother in so many ways," said Hutton. "We had been together since 1965 and I am in shock at this sudden loss."
