A Nostalgic Look Back at Early Talents and Lost Icons

My childhood neighbor, Mike McPherson, was always ahead of his time. With genius-level intelligence, Mike, alongside two peers, skipped ahead to middle school in an era when such advancements were rare. This left a memorable impression on us all. Mike’s intellect even led him to choose Reed College over Ivy League offers, seeking a unique educational experience. His post-school years were spent among New York’s Beat scene, absorbing its artistry and activism.

A Creative Dynasty

Mike married Mary Anne Frye, one of the classmates who had advanced with him. Together, they embodied a progressive mindset, choosing not to have children and contributing to the world in their ways. Mike's mother, Helen, was an equally remarkable figure. Not only was she an accomplished artist, but she also boldly took on unconventional projects, like constructing a large brick patio herself, influencing my mother to do the same.

Music, Memories, and The Band

Music was a shared passion between Mike and me. Helen once humorously criticized Bob Dylan's singing, something that Mike was delving into at the time. Upon my return from the Army in '68, Mike introduced me to The Band's debut album, 'Music from Big Pink', a record that defied genre categorizations and exuded an ineffable magic. Sadly, the years have taken away these figures, including Mike, Mary Anne, Helen, and the members of The Band, save for Garth Hudson, who at 86 remains as the last custodian of The Band's legacy.

Remembering Paul Lacques

Last week, we mourned the loss of Paul Lacques at age 69. Lacques was a multi-talented musician, a pillar of the LA music scene, and more notably, a kind and genuine soul who touched many lives with his artistry and activism.

Concluding Thoughts

While reflecting on such impactful lives and personal stories, space runs short for additional recommendations, pointing to the significance of the legacies left behind by those we have lost.

nostalgia, music, legacy