Three Dog Night initially disbanded in 1976, but re-formed in 1981. They covered Stevie Wonder’s “Never Dreamed You’d Leave in Summer”. I remember his conversation and enthusiasm being particularly infectious, especially when he talked about the band not being in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Condolences to his family and friends. 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).
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“We had been together since 1965 and I am in shock at this sudden loss”, he said. The group – which also included singer Chuck Negron rounded out the frontmen – reunited in 1981 and has been a regular on the touring scene ever since (but without Negron, who had a falling out with his former bandmates).
The band announced Wells’ death on Wednesday, calling his passing in Dunkirk unexpected.
Beginning in September, the band postponed several shows, saying Wells needed continued treatment for a nerve problem in his back that caused severe pain.
Wells grew up in an abusive home in Buffalo and served in the Air Force before launching his musical career in earnest.
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One of those singers, Cory Wells, died unexpectedly on Tuesday. Those influences would serve him well in Three Dog Night, an outfit known for bringing significant soulfulness to bear on mainstream pop. Wells did balance out his professional life with family and leisure pursuits. He is survived by Mary, his wife of 50 years; daughters Coryann Wells and Dawn Marie Cussins (William), and 5 grandchildren.
