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.