At the end of January 2009, I fulfilled a long-held desire to visit West Africa, having been drawn to African music in general for many years. It started in 1973 when I was turned on to an album called Musique de Burundi (Barclay Records, 1971) that made me want to discover more. Now, at the invitation of my daughter Gillian, who in 2008 had been to the Festival In The Desert (not far from Timbuktu) we traveled to Mali together.
I am deeply saddened by the loss of my good friend, Don Bernstine.
I met Don when I joined Rainbow in 1979 and he taught me so much about the business of music. Employed by Bruce and Thames Talent he was in charge of promotion. The first time we worked together was on Since You’ve Been Gone and it is with no small thanks to him that that song became what it did.
The other day in England, by pure happenstance, there was an impromptu partial reunion of two bands that impacted my life immeasurably. Although I’ve seen all of them individually from time to time, it was the first time in 19 years that we were in the same room at the same time.
My first band in school was The Madisons (1961 – 1963).
I am deeply saddened by news of the sudden death of Klaus Porzia, better known as Pyro.
I sent a wreath to his funeral on behalf of Deep Purple. Over the years we had become friends and his photographs of our live shows were never less than superb. One of my favourite shots was one that he took a few years ago and generously gave to me to use as I wanted.
Life is dull I think it not Life is full and what a lot Of people places things and bits Enough to test a savant’s wits But through the cut and thrust somehow The push and pull of life must flow As we navigate this heaving sea We have no choice we cannot flee We’re stuck here just like all the rest Struggling with the greatest test To keep our heads above the water As our days and nights get shorter Life’s a snap I think it not But it’s all we’ve got
One more bit Make the best of it
FAREWELL 2008
This year has been one tumultuous and rapid year.