People will find it strange that I'm being so formal with you. But, I've always sort of
revered you. I've seen you live more times, in more settings, than any other performer. 6
times, I think. I wish I could say I met you or even came close (well, actually, I did),
but I just wanted to let you know I think your music is beautiful.
I first saw you on promo tickets at Humboldt State University... I was working at KFMI,
and it was great to slip in right before the performance. Front row seats. Bonus: Nino
Tempo and April Blackwood (Sax, ?, sure hope I got that right). Anyway, I was mesmerized.
And then, you came out with the Kenny Rankin album produced by Don Costa, the same guy who produced
JT's "Mean Old Man" (I have a chicken bone to pick with him over that one)..
exquisite.
Groovin',
the old Rascals tune - your version - is one of my all time favorite songs. Back in the
80's that would be one of the songs I'd play every Sunday as I began my day, cleaning the
house, gardening, being in the sun and having my "special day" in Woodinville,
Washington.
The last time I saw you was in a small club in Monterey (had a date to see you at
Blues/Jazz Alley in DC, but got cancelled later). 50 people or less, I'd guess. I was less
than 20 feet away. Passed you a note to play a tune.... Of course, you didn't play it. :}
Through the eye...
Anyway.. then I went to work at KCRE in Crescent City... and upon reflection, it's
amazing the music and the messages that came through that year or so (the same year it
snowed in June or July).
One of the songs that touched my heart most that I wanted to share with people was this
song, Hiding Inside Myself. I can still relate to it, and I bet a lot of other people can
too.
Anyway, for whatever it's worth, thanks for all the beautiful music, and I hope to
catch up on your albums soon. Glad to see the re-release of the KR Album!
