I Play The Guitar Because It Lets Me Dream Out Loud

"I feel I can always hear his heart when he plays."
Pete Townshend on Michael Hedges

The music industry is rife with tragedy and loss. Buddy Holly, Duane Allman, Jimi, Berry Oakley, Allen Woody, Otis Redding, George Harrison, John Lennon - it's an endless list really. Depressing to think about when one considers the musical void that is created when great talent disappears.

I really don't want my blog to be an endless stream of discussions about people that have died but yesterday marked 10 years since the death of Michael Hedges. I've written about Michael before but I wanted to acknowledge what I consider a major loss of spirit and music from the world.

I remember the first time I heard him and his revolutionary acoustic guitar playing style. The CD was Aerial Boundaries and it still amazes me to this day. He brought technical prowess to the instrument but his playing and performance was joyful and moving.

Michael died in 1997 at the age of 43. He is greatly missed by those who were inspired by him, those who experienced his talent, those who were envious of his skills, and humbled by his humor.

YouTube is full of amazing performances by him so I had a hard time choosing one to include here. I am glad that there is such an amazing assortment of material available. I really enjoyed the process of watching them though - a great reminder of his talent.

SB