Cass Elliot, 32, 1941–1974

Cass Elliot was a vocalist of Mamas & Papas, as well as a songwriter for the group. She was affectionately known as Mama Cass and was inducted posthumously into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, having brought soul to songs like California Dreamin’ and Words of Love.

As with many stars, she suffered from drug addiction, often using opiates. It is speculated that this probably caused major friction in her love life, having been married and divorced twice. Elliot, only 32, died in her sleep due to heart failure. Her sister, Leah Kunkel, would become the guardian of Elliot’s daughter, Owen, and she, too, would grow up to be a singer.