Today, June 4, marks the passing of John Hartford, one of the greatest entertainers and unique human beings I’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting. His music, wit, and down-home country wisdom continue to inspire and lift me every time I listen to his music or see a photo of him. A few years ago I saw a listing of BMI’s most-performed songs in their history; “Gentle On My Mind” was #3. I know there is no beer in heaven so I guess it’s up to us to lift one for John.
In his memory, I offer Cafe colleagues a couple of photos from my files that hold special meaning for me. The first was taken in the dressing room of the Great American Music in 1979 after he finished his set. What I remember about that gig (besides the great music, of course) was Lee Brenkman, the Music Hall’s longtime sound man, telling me that John’s rider had only a couple of demands, the most important being that the venue had to provide a new sheet of Grade A Premium plywood for him to dance on.
Bookmarks