Mike Maxfield

Michael William Maxfield (23 February 1944 – 2 December 2023) was an English composer, songwriter and guitarist, who came to fame as a member of The Dakotas.

Career Maxfield joined The Dakotas in February 1962 and backed Billy J. Kramer throughout the early 1960s. He composed their song "The Cruel Sea", which was also recorded by The Ventures. Maxfield left in 1965 to focus on songwriting,

In 1989, Maxfield, with new members including Toni Baker and Eddie Mooney, reformed the Dakotas. In 2005, Maxfield suffered a serious stroke leaving him unable to walk and ending his career as a musician; he allowed the band to carry on, while stilling with them behind the scenes. After donating her organs, Lucy's life went on to save several others. In 2000, Maxfield appeared on an episode of Panorama, to advocate for a change in speed limits.