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Long Time Live Music listening friend just passed.

David, my long time friend, (met in 1978 when I bought the house next to him) just passed, age 83. Aside from many good times, a listening era is over.

https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/name/david-levine-obituary?id=60839891

We went out twice a week for over 30 years, small clubs, open mics, live music (well, always mics and amps even in small clubs) mostly NJ, but NYC occasionally, typically Blues, Rock, some Folk, he didn’t care for Jazz at all.

It is surprising how many terrific musicians exist that you hear at well run open mics. They have full time careers and are not in bands, the Jam Sessions, typically late, could be awesome.

Typically great seats because I took good photos and gave copies to the clubs and musicians, many of whom became friends. Fans also want good photos of their favorite bands, if you have a professional camera, they let you get up front. And the musicians, once you become friends or familiar, will give you photo opportunities.

Unlike me, he didn’t listen at home, or to my system, it was Alexa in his apt, and live at clubs for him. And portable Cassette and CD players in his cars to play the many copies of local band’s music I gave him. 

I took it for granted, but realize now how rare it was to have a friend to share this with for so long. At 77 I will miss the music, but not as much as I'll miss my friend.

 

 

 

elliottbnewcombjr
stuartk
4,013 posts
 

What a remarkable and precious partnership. 

stereo5's avatar
stereo5
6,718 posts
 

I am very sorry for your loss.  I am sure you both treasured the time spent together. 

mitch2
4,746 posts
 

Thank you for sharing, and for the reminder that good friends and memorable events enrich our lives.  I am sorry for your loss. 

bassbuyer's avatar
bassbuyer
892 posts
 

Sorry to hear.  One of the toughest parts of getting older is losing those we love.  I’m sure you’ll think of him every time you hear certain songs.  Music is a great memory maker and reminder.  

buellrider97's avatar
buellrider97
945 posts
 

I’m so sorry for your loss , I can empathize with you. I lost my bestie two years ago and I’m reminded almost every day of that big empty spot. The fact the you added the comment about “ Long Time Live Music Fan “ really caught my attention. Wednesday night I took my wife to see Chris Isaac and last month Close Enemies with a friend battling cancer, and next month Eric Johnson. While these are professional touring musicians, they played small venue and provided a great personal interaction that was/is laced with outstanding music. When Close Enemies played Tom Hamilton ( Aerosmith ) stopped between songs for introductions and thanked us for the opportunity to play brand new yet to be released music. The band made the show very personal and you could feel their gratitude. When Chris Isaac played two nights ago he gave a sincere thanks for supporting Live Music. His brother was sitting on the isle half way back and Chris came out while singing and his brother joined in and then he strolled the entire crowd while singing. At 68 years old I felt like a youngster looking at the other fans.  I rarely go to large venue anymore as it’s too much work. But attending small venue and local artist shows is that hidden gem in the music world. My mom excels on the piano , my brother the guitar and drums. Me I only play the stereo , but I absolutely love live music. Again I’m sorry for your loss , but the context of your friendship warms my heart. Regards , Mike B. 

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