Last Thursday night my wife and I were by her granfather’s side in his final hours in this world. He lived to the age of 87 and a half. He was one of those old-school men – worked hard, sacrificed and took care of his family. He’s had a colorful life…coming from China to America & serving in the Army (during WWII) , being a butcher, rancher, running small businesses and being an almost magical gardener who could make anything grow. The man had an infectious smile and was always cracking jokes or doing something silly to make someone laugh.

My wife’s grandparents accepted me into their family without hesitation and always treated me as one of their own. My own grandparents were far away in India and I only saw them on a few trips back there. They’ve all long since passed away, and I am fortunate to  have met my 3rd set of grandparents. How lucky is that?

I will miss him dearly. Rest in peace Gung Gung.

Rock guitar legend Bo Diddly passed away yesterday.

He was there in the beginning of it all with guys like Chuck berry, LIttle Richard, Buddy Holly, etc. The man was an innovator in terms of rock rhythms and in terms of guitar technique and sounds. He used to build his unique rectangular guitars and played with a lot of fuzz, reverb and host of other sounds. His use of innovative guitars and effects, and his brand of bragging lyrics about himself have labelled him the creator of psychadelic rock and as the precursor of rap music.

Kristen and I had an opportunity to see him perform a few years ago, and it was one fo the best shows I’d ever seen. The man was a master showman coming from an era where a performer actually made you feel good as an audience member. He would remind us all that he was there to work for us. People give the Rolling Stones flak for being in their 60s and still performing. We saw him live and he was about 71 and rocking hard!

As a guitarist, it makes me sad he’s gone. A lot of us have gone through that phase where we learn Chuck Berry and Bo Diddly riffs. Fun as hell to play! Thankfully the music is still here. I’m listening to his “Who Do You Love” right now.

RIP sir.