Farewell To Our Mentor
I’m incredibly lucky to have known Jay. Like most folks, I was introduced to the man through his incredible arrangements and the “break your heart” movie.
I was shocked to get a huge, hearty, family-style hug from him when I volunteered to untangle cables at his peter-pan club house studio. It became my root temple, Pieholden Suite Sound.
Since then, I have come to know Jay as one of the most compassionate and empathetic people I have ever met. No rock star, no posture, pure love, pure art. Time and time again I waited to see this hard “fall-guy” portrayed in the movie, but that Jay never appeared.
What did appear was a brand new way of thinking about writing and recording music. Jay showed us a way to capture sound AND moment. He sculpted production techniques based on what could be vs. what has been.
I never heard him mention a bitter word toward any former band.
The news of Jay’s death comes at an unexpected time. I’d been speaking with him all Saturday afternoon about many projects.
Farewell my friend, you now pass into legend, your work echoes though the cosmos forever, your life has been troubled yet your mark has been made. Your love is endless, your gaze is steadfast and true, I told you yesterday and I still love you!!!
Casey
