Two more rock icons succumb to age - Martin and Emerson

Keith Emerson, 71

Today I found out that one of the musicians who made an impact on my life, Keith Emerson, had passed away.  I have no words to describe his influence on my listening habits.  He did more than just played keyboards, but composed and arraigned as well as being the ultimate keyboard showman.  As each album of his, whether as the Nice or ELP, I was constantly blown away by the mastery of not only his talent but those he surrounded himself with as well.  He constantly challenged me to widen my definitions of rock, classical, and even jazz music.  I am sad at his passing.

Bruce Pilato, Carl Palmer's publicist released these words from Palmer:

RIP KEITH EMERSON- It is with profound sadness I have to report the death of Keith Emerson last night in Santa Monica, CA. Below is the official statement from Carl Palmer:

I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of my good friend and brother-in-music, Keith Emerson. Keith was a gentle soul whose love for music and passion for his performance as a keyboard player will remain unmatched for many years to come. He was a pioneer and an innovator whose musical genius touched all of us in the worlds of rock, classical and jazz. I will always remember his warm smile, good sense of humor, compelling showmanship, and dedication to his musical craft. I am very lucky to have known him and to have made the music we did, together. Rest in peace, Keith.
Carl Palmer
March 11, 2016

The Tarkus returns to the sea, defeated

We also say goodbye to one of, and arguably the best, producer and sound engineers of all rock history.  George Martin was also a teacher.  He taught great musicians and engineers.  His work with the Beatles helped four young men find their way as the talent they had screamed to evolve.  George Martin showed them how to use those talents and how to develop them for themselves.  He also took a young man named Alan Parsons and groomed him to be the best he could which became not only the refinment of Pink Floyd's Dark Side of the Moon" album, but led him to create his own expeimental progressive rock band, The Alan Parson's Project. He was 90

George Martin in the control room with Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr

Both of these rock giants point out that a major era of rock music is passing. 

God calls one of his faithful home to be with him and her soulmate. Nancy Reagan passes away at 94

Today, One of the most beautiful ladies the world has ever known, passed away.  Nancy Reagan, wife and partner of former President Ronald Reagan has gone to be with him in heaven.

Her obituary will be written with more information and style than I have,but I will always remember the grace, style, and class of this wonderful lady.  Despite being hated by all those who also hated her husband and what he stood for, She stood by his side even after his passing with her head up and solid in her love of Ronald, America, and her God, the God of Israel and the Gentiles.

This is a story of a great love affair between two great people. Reagan, in his dairies, always mentioned how lost he felt in the few times he traveled away from her.  They were deeply in love for their entire lives.  It's good they get to be together again side by side with their King, Jesus.

Whenever we lose another one of these wonderful people from a gentler and more traditional time, the world passes further away from a time when a man's word meant something and family and marriage were not just social constructs, but the very foundations of our society.

Today, on a rainy Sunday in Southern California, we say goodbye to a great spirit, an American Icon, and a strong Christian Woman.

Rest in Peace, Nancy.