I have known for years that country legend Waylon Jennings
was a member of Buddy Holly’s backup band and decided to take the tour bus to
the next gig instead of getting on the plane with those who would perish. What
was news to me was Dion DiMucci was also on that bill. I have always been a fan
of Dion and his group The Belmonts, as well as his exemplary solo work.
I was struck by 2 thoughts while contemplating the
playbill’s image. This happened in my lifetime. It wasn’t abstract history. It
is part of MY history. I am an unabashed fan. I realized that I grew up and
have grown older with rock & roll. I lived it. I can thrash with Metallica.
I can play some killer air guitar to “Reeling in the Years”. I can feel the
power that lies in the lyrics to a tune like “Jungleland” or “Revolution” or
“Long Live Rock”.
Then I began imagining what would have happened had Dion
perished along with the others. Not only has Dion been a favorite performer of
mine for my entire life, but he has been a major influence to many of my
favorite performers: Lou Reed, Petty, Springsteen, Simon & Garfunkel, Dave
Edmunds and many, many more. What if he were not around to influence these
artists? Would there be an “Even the Losers”? Would there be a “Rock &
Roll”? Would there be a “Sounds of Silence”?
Finally, I am struck by the realization that rock & roll
& I will most likely close up shop within years of each other. When I go, I
hope they throw a party and play “You Can’t Always Get What You Want”, “Running
on Empty”, “Funeral for a Friend/Love Lies Bleeding” turned up to 11.
Not a bad way to boogie through life, if you ask me. What a
great soundtrack, too,,,,LOL
1961
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