Lots of people noted the passing of Harry Belafonte recently.

Sadly, fewer folks noted the passing of Al Jerreau, one of my all-time favorite jazz vocalists.

I still play lots of his material. In the early 70's, I made the first of many trips to a Square D Company plant in Cedar Rapids Iowa for a video shoot.

A relative of Al's worked in maintenance. Al was in graduate school (social work) and performed at a club owned by an old jazz drummer. The place was sleazy: the music was GREAT, with the exception of the little dude who sat in on one of the rattiest B-3's you can imagine.


Naturally, the dude on the B (me) blamed the instrument for the terrible assault on the ears of the public.


Even then, Al had major problems with his back.

I have lots of fond memories and playing (and drinking) with this musical giant is very near the top of the list.


Haven't seen him for over 30 years.

AT my age, I need to take the time to visit those important to me.


That includes more than a few of you here.



Russ


R.

I remember those great albums he put out when I was a kid, he hired the very best players and I loved listening to his music. He was one of a kind. R.I.P.