Arthur Miles

Miles Obituary

Miles, a native of Indiana, was transplanted to the fertile musical soil of California at a tender age. His journey as a vocalist commenced in Richmond, San Francisco. The profound influence of his uncle, the legendary guitarist Wes Montgomery, and the vibrant ambiance of his father’s night club, ‘Arthur’s,’ provided him with the unique opportunity to see, absorb, and jam with some of the most celebrated blues, jazz, and soul artists of the era. This early exposure played an essential part in shaping his musical prowess.

From age 14, Miles played as a professional musician with his own bands. He perfected his singing technique at the School of Natural Voice in Los Angeles under Patricia Warner’s tutelage while completing his formal studies in musical theory. He also majored in journalism at Pasadena City College. During his time in Los Angeles, his bands included The Curb Feelers, Good Clean Fun, Hardworking, and The Blues Shakers. In 1974, he spent several years in Japan, touring the entire country and performing in major cities with the Days Band.

Miles subsequently worked as an individual artist and vocalist supporting musicians such as Edwin Starr, José Feliciano, Big Joe Turner, Johnny Otis, Eddie “Cleanhead” Vinson, and Jimmy “Bo” Horne. He toured with The Blues Society, performing all over California.

In 1984, Miles embarked on a new chapter in his musical odyssey, relocating to Italy. There, he engaged in a rich tapestry of collaborations with a myriad of Italian artists, including Paolo Conte, Loredana Bertè, Pierangelo Bertoli, and Andrea Mingardi. His performances at renowned festivals such as Carnevale di Venezia and Umbria Jazz Festival, and appearances on popular television shows, further enriched his musical repertoire.

Following a gig at the Scimmie Jazz Club in Milan, he was invited by Renzo Arbore to participate in his popular TV show Quelli della notte on Rai 2. His voice interpreted the Frank Raya Band hit “Eyah! Eyah!” featured on the album The King of Money.

In 1987, Miles began working with Zucchero, singing Blue’s, Oro incenso e birra, Spirito Divino, and Shake on his records. He provided the Reverend’s introduction in “Diavolo in Me” (“Devil In Me”). Zucchero’s most successful hits, like “Senza una donna” (“Without a Woman”), “Hey Man,” “Baila,” and “Ahum,” include Miles’ participation. He also performed on Zucchero’s LP Fly, released in September 2006, which consists of the single “Bacco perbacco.” He participated in the album Black Cat, released in 2016.

In 1990, he toured with Gloria Gaynor in Italy and re-recorded “I Will Survive” and “Love Affair” with her.

Miles lived in Orsenigo, Como, and remained an active musician. Between 2021 and 2022, he participated in The Voice Senior’s Italian edition.

His family reported Miles’ death on July 31, 2024. He was 74.

Miles will be remembered for his remarkable musical contributions and lasting impact on those who enjoyed hearing his voice.