Music and books … two of my favorite most things (along with ice cream and smiles).
We went to the Berks Jazz Festival this weekend and saw a 90 year old piano player. He wasn’t bad … Brubeck, wasn’t it, Louie? Now THAT is a Louie-Louie Generation member of the first order, Lassies and Laddies. I don’t mind being a charter member when Mr. Brubeck is also there. He can play!
We also ended up at the Grand Opera to see Tom Rush. Am I dating myself? He, as usual, was super. He sang the River Song which I love, and his voice still makes me feel good.
And then there was that marvelous picture of my very own Louie-Louie Lad in Donna Halper’s book called “Images of America – Boston Radio 1920-2010” … yeah, it made me smile and remember some VERY old times. Bruce Bradley and Bob Kennedy (BZ’s Mr. K, not the other) and even Jefferson Kaye. My mom loved him ‘cause he was Polish.
Radio is, of course, no longer the fun place it used to be, and lots of our favorite radio lads and lassies have left us. But for Louie-Louie Generation members, radio will always be the one place we had that was all ours. Music we cared about, played by people we knew just from listening to their stories and ideas.
Yes, Dick is still working … which is probably why I lose my cool once in awhile. He should be flying … and writing … and chasing me … well, yeah, he does all that but he shouldn’t have to stop to answer the phone or send an e-mail. I’m greedy.
And he is my most favorite thing …
I have felt lost in radio land until Sirius/XM came along about 5 years ago. I find myself listening to the radio like I did in the 60’s in Boston. Loving the music and the personalities.
WW, since you like ice cream I won’t tell you what’s in it. Just saw the grocery flyer yesterday and the famous ice cream from Texas, Blue Bell, has come to Colorado. People here have been asking for it for years.
Wow, I can’t believe Dave Brubeck is 90 years old, and still playing in the quartet! That’s great. I wish Tom Rush would come out west. I checked out some of his music after Dick mentioned him and really like it. Most of his touring is back east though.
Maybe since Dick has been working all his life, he just doesn’t know how to quit. But it’s not like he has nothing waiting for him. I’ve heard many people say that when they quit working they were busier than ever. He has to do all those things you mentioned plus quarterback his team. 😉
I’m glad you got to see Tom Rush. Apparently we have much in common where that’s concerned.
YAY For Dave Brubeck!! Jazz lives!
Betsy — I live in a state where Tom performs once or twice a year but it’s on the other side of the state…. a mere 5½ hours away. I’m working loosely with him and his booking agency to get him to my area so I can enjoy a live show once again as I did when I lived in NH.
I’m sure you will see him in CO some day soon.
Tom Rush on Prairie Home Companion in 2 weeks!!!! YAAAYYYY!!!!
Book on Boston radio was great. Thanks