Memorial Day 2013

The beginning of summer and the day to remember the heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice to keep our country free.

In Charlotte, NC., the Memorial Day weekend is time for Speed Street, a 3-day celebration that precedes the annual Coca-Cola 600 Nascar race. This event is all about food, music, trinket giveaways, autograph sessions with drivers and the opportunity to pose for a picture with a corporate mascot!.. good times!

Have a great summer!

As time marches on, our rock and roll heroes from the 50's through the 70's grow old and their passing is a painful reminder of our lost youth. Ray Manzarek, the keyboard player for The Doors has joined the list of deceased rock icons. For me, Manzarek will always be the inventive keyboardist with the crazed professor look, hunched over his keyboard, banging out dark pop masterpieces, as the Lizard King screams out his vocals. The Doors music was distinct and unlike anything the music world had ever seen. The young rebels preserved on video and audio......eventually they move on and are replaced by  new trends and musical styles. When you hear that an influential musician from the days of your youth has passed away, you stop, sigh and find comfort in the notion that the music will live on in all it's youthful glory!

Last month, our family suffered a heartbreaking loss. My wife's cousin and my friend's wife passed away and the sadness still lingers with all of us who knew her and loved her vibrant spirit. Her laughter dominated the room and we shared a passion for collecting, Christmas and all-things Elvis. Flo's loving spirit will live on in her sons and grandchildren. I will never forget her warm spirit and enthusiasm for life..We love you, Flo!

George Jones wonders about the future of country music in his song, "Whose Gonna Fill Their Shoes?" There will be no replacement for the unique voice of this country legend. Jones authentic country voice was full of yearning, heartbreak and hard-partying. Like many of my musical discoveries, my introduction to Jones was courtesy of the Grateful Dead covering George's, "The Race is On".

 In the late 90's, I discovered The George Jones Show on The Nashville Network. This cable show featured George performing live with a mix of country legends and emerging artists. George's influence on the country music scene was profound and enduring. The Possum's voice and spirit will be sorely missed..