John Dawson (musician)

John Dawson
John Dawson onstage, singing and playing an electric guitar
John "Marmaduke" Dawson in 1973
Background information
Birth nameJohn Collins Dawson IV
Also known asMarmaduke
Born(1945-06-16)June 16, 1945
Chicago, Illinois
OriginSan Francisco, California, United States
DiedJuly 21, 2009(2009-07-21) (aged 64)
San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
GenresCountry rock
Instruments
  • Vocals
  • guitar
Years active1964–1997
Formerly ofNew Riders of the Purple Sage

John Collins Dawson IV (June 16, 1945 – July 21, 2009), nicknamed "Marmaduke", was an American musician, singer, and songwriter. He was best known as the leader and co-founder of the country rock band the New Riders of the Purple Sage. He sang lead vocals on most of the band's songs.