The bond between musicians who make each other play better when they get together is powerful.


Although it has been some time since we had the chance to play together, I often think of the music I made with my friend Jerry Hastings.  Jerry died this week at the age of 52.  He left behind many memories for friends.


Over the years, we had two bands… an acoustic duo “2×6” (two guys with strings each) and a peppy four piece electric band called “Dangerbird” (after Neil Young’s great song) with Mike Assalone on drums and Frank Rielly (RIP) on the bass.  The music was hot and fresh, so much so we started playing original songs.  Jerry’s “Big Time” was especially solid.


With his signature legs crossed, head cocked pose, Jerry often would say, “hey check this lick out”… then spin off something that would make everyone in the room smile.


We would spend hours talking music and playing tunes.  One of the many songs Jerry turned me on to was Bob Dylan’s “Lily, Rosemary and the Jack of Hearts”… 


Rest in peace my guitar friend.


Be sure and flap your wings.