Jerry Ragovoy – Songwriter For Stones, Joplin

Jerry Ragovoy, the songwriter responsible for 'Time Is On My Side' for the Stones, and 'Piece Of My Heart' for Janis Joplin has died at the age of 80.

Ragovoy started his songwriting career penning arrangements for Frankie Avalon and Fabian, but his talents were soon recognized for their heart wrenching qualities more suited to rhythm and blues.

'Time Is On My Side' was originally written for trombonist Kai Winding, but blues belter Irma Thomas recorded a version of the song, which was summarily heard and covered by the Rolling Stones.

It was such a breakthrough for the Stones that they performed it on their first Ed Sullivan appearance in 1964. It was the first top 10 hit for the band.

Ragovoy co-wrote not only 'Piece Of My Heart' which became one of Janis Joplin's signature songs, but also wrote 'Try (Just A Little Bit Harder)', and 'Cry Baby', recorded by her to great success.

The Who even recorded Ragovoy's 'Anytime You Want Me'.

Ragovoy died of complications from a stroke on Wednesday, July 13th. Check out the Stones' live version of 'Time Is On My Side':