John Hammond Jr.
I
just learned of John's passing last night. It feels like I've lost a
friend. I had the pleasure to meet John and sit with him one night in a
small club as he signed autographs for the fans. In that brief half hour
he shared wisdom and taught me a lesson that struck a chord within me
that I've never forgotten.
We
talked a lot about the writing process as I shared some insights from
writing my novel Journey Home. I had a copy with me that I autographed
for John.
He was such a gentleman
and kind and calm. He left everything on the stage. I hollered between
songs once at Merle Fest and told him, "We love you John" the audience
chimed right in and he told us all "I love you too."
That
may have been it right there. Love of the music, love of the people who
created it and love of the people who appreciated it. There's video of
him talking about having Jimi and Eric on stage with him and his band at
the same time and the way his eyes light up when he tells the story is
sheer joy and genuine.
He taught me humility that night when I sat with him and about finding my voice.
Such
a lovely man. It breaks my heart losing another good soul in this
world. We can't stand to loose any more good people. From the streets of
Minnesota, to the villages of Palestine, to hospitals full of children
with cancer we need more not less of what John Hammond had in abundance.
Thank you John I remember what you taught me thank you.
