Neil Mincey
Early last Monday morning I was driving to work, sleepily listening to the morning news on the radio when Margie Zariletta jarred me to attention with the terrible news on her music report. It was about 26 years after I listened to the radio in amazement, captivated by the guitar work on a song called When I Touch You by a band I had never heard of called Spirit. Although that is a Jay Ferguson song it was California's guitar work that captivated me. I had never heard anything quite like it before. I was 12 years old and was just beginning to really appreciate "serious" rock music. I was learning there was more to it than Three Dog Night and The Monkees. I had just bought Grand Funk's Closer to Home (thought I'm Your Captain was a great song) and Paranoid by Black Sabbath. I quickly added Twelve Dreams of Dr. Sardonicus to my collection. That album along with a few others transformed this quiet kid into an aspiring rock musician. No,I didn't become the guitar hero of my town. My fingers were too short and didn't have the range or strength required, so I picked up the sticks to follow in the footsteps of Ed Cassidy and Ian Paice.
I continued to follow Spirit through their various incarnations, buying nearly all their records over the years, even after I finally hung up the sticks in 1986. Through it all, Randy California has remained one of my favorite musician/ songwriters. A few years ago when I was living in Minneapolis, I went to see Spirit perform at a bar called the Cabooze shortly after the release of Rapture in the Chambers. I had the pleasure of talking with Randy for a few minutes and found him to be friendly and patient while I shared how I felt about Spirit and how important they were and still are to me.
Mike Niles had joined the group recently and they played a few songs from Tent of Miracles and a lot of songs from the original days. They had to cut the show a little short as Randy was recovering from some abdominal sickness and was in quite a bit of pain. However, I thought his performance was very strong and I was amazed at Ed Cassidy's continued vitality. I've wondered for quite a while about what Randy would do once Cass finally fades from the picture. I never thought that Cassidy would survive his stepson. My heart goes out to his family, friends and all dedicated fans. His music and influence will always be an important part of my life. In his own words, I hope his "life has just begun".
Neil Mincey, Cedar Rapids, IA.
I was very saddened to hear that Randy is no longer with us. I got the word Wednesday evening, and I just couldn't believe it.
I saw Randy play about 2 years ago, at the Buffalo Rose in Golden, Colorado. He played the most amazing version of 'Red House' that I had ever heard. And his own songs are works of art, true jewels in the vast wasteland that music has become lately.
From what I've heard from someone that knew him well, Randy was a selfless, caring person, happy to share, with none of the rock star ego trip that so many get caught up in.
His spirit is free now to go where it will.
Bright blessings, Randy, wherever you are. You are sorely missed.
Garnet MacPhee
Robert Stam
Spirit hit big in my hometown of Salt Lake in the late 60's. I remember listening to Michael G's radio show when "Mechanical World" came on the air. I was mesmerized by this new sound and presence on the airwaves. Spirit was a headliner when they played our city (too bad that didn't happen more often in other locales) and all of their single releases through "Dr. Sardonicus" hit the radio market top ten. I've followed Randy's career throughout the many label and personnel changes, even haunting the European record racks in the eighties to keep up with his prodigious output. I own everything he ever put out and I can't say that about any of my other rock heroes. He had heart and fire and I know the sacrifice he made for his son was done without a flicker of hesitation. I last saw the group live on Halloween night about six years ago at the Foundation Bar here in SLC. I sat no more than five feet away from Randy and was in total awe of his musicianship. I marveled at Cassidy's energy and that ever present toothy grin of his as he drummed. I'll never forget that night. My thoughts are with his family and friends and I hope the current "rock press" doesn't ignore his passing and takes a line or two in their publications to mention his beauty and influence.
Zeljko Fatzek
Hi,
Today is the first time I ever really surfed through Internet and I immediately attempted to connect to Spirit site. I wish I never did ... I am pretty shocked and don't have much to say anything... except that great men just have to die to be recognized their greatness. Randy was certainly one the few most important figures in the development of popular music and it is sad that the true values are often being overlooked in favour of commerciality. So much from one of few and great admirers of Spirit and Randy from far Croatia.
Zeljko Fatzek, Croatia
Charles Hagee
Johan (and friends),
I remember buying Jay Ferguson's REAL LIFE AIN'T THIS WAY in '79. I was (and continue to be) a Beach Boys fan, so I loved "Shakedown Cruise" and it's oceanic feel. The LP proved to be so good that soon I was tracking down everything that Jay had ever done. This was a body of work which included Jo Jo Gunne and, of course, Spirit.
Spirit was a revelation to that 16 year old boy. I was stunned by Randy California's amazing songwriting, his tasty guitar work and, most of all, his passion. I got a summer job and blew every cent buying all of Spirit's albums. Looking back, it was some of the best money I ever spent.
In the years since that teen-age summer, I have been fortunate enough to see Spirit a number of times. I can honestly say that each of Randy's performances left me longing for the next. I looked forward to each new song, each re-interpretation of his classics. He knew that he had a God-given talent to create. His joy at being able to share his gift was not just obvious, but contagious.
A couple of years ago, when I did get the chance to speak with Randy, I didn't know what to say. (We were both standing at the bar in a club where Spirit was scheduled to play later that evening. Him, the unnoticed guitar god and me, the tongue-tied fan.) Well, Randy made it easy. I was surprised at how warm and friendly this man was. We talked for some time and when I walked back to my friends, I felt a whole new respect for him.
Randy was a man who cared. His caring was very evident in his heroic actions to save his son last Saturday.
Last night I listened to Randy California. I chose a live tape from the 1984 tour. Spirit's performance was tight, impassioned. I savored everything, from Randy's elegiac "Nature's Way" to his rollicking "I Got A Line On You".
And, around midnight, as I listened to his definitive take on "All Along The Watchtower" (we all know how Randy loved his Dylan), I know I felt a tear.
Randy, without you there can be no Spirit. Because of you, there will always be a Spirit.
Farewell my friend.
Charles Hagee
CALIFORNIA SAGA
Kirk Gates
"....I saw Randy California several years back (probably more than that) at a bar in Dallas. The bar was so small, there was only room for seating at the bar or at a couple of tables. [...] The entire room was filled with a wall of sound that I have not experienced since. Randy pulled out all his black box tricks and performed to the likes of Hendrix or S.R. Vaughn. I was sad to hear about his death, and the Spirit/Kapt. Kopter albums that I own will be forever cherished...."
Kirk Gates
I don't know if you are dead or alive when I'm writing this. I cried after reading the first message about your disappearance, and I haven't done that since my grandfather passed away many years ago. Music has been an important thing in my life since I was 5-6 years old and I heard Elvis sing "All shook up" on a tape. Later I saw The Beatles performing "She Loves You" on TV and I was hooked. But in 1989 I bought my first Spirit album and since then you and Spirit has always been number one for me! Your talent is unique and you have used it so well. Kaptain Kopter, I hope you will come back for another mission, and if you don't, I will always remember you.
Johan Bengtsson
Kevin Bazur
I just hope that perhaps he will show up alive, I know it is not likely at this time but maybe... I have been in the process of rediscovering Spirit, their music meant so much to many of us. I wanted to see them last year at the gathering but it did'nt happen. I realize how hard this news must be on Randy's family and freinds- our thoughts are with you,
KLB
Steve Webbon
I am absolutely stunned - It's unconfirmed rumours but if true - well I don't know how to express my sadness. Randy is/was a lovely man who I was lucky enough to meet in the eighties and I'm just very devastated if we are to be deprived of his talent.
Steve Webbon
Beggars Banquet Records
ROLLING THUNDER
It saddens us greatly to read these stories of Randy California's demise. We had the pleasure a couple of years back of opening for Spirit at the Palomino Club in North Hollywood Ca.
Everyone in the band was impressed with Ed and Randy's musical poise and depth, and came away with a profound respect for those guys as people as well as musicians. These cats are total pros and a real pleasure to work with. Although the cats in our band were teenagers at the time Randy and Ed treated them as peers.
We hope and pray for a surprise "happy ending" to this tale. Our love and thoughts go out to the Spirit family.
Love,
Mark Lee
Oliver Steinberg
Joshua Berman
Colin Chambers
ROLLING THUNDER
It's about 1:30 a.m. in Chicago on 1-7. I got the word about Randy at 11:30. I'm devasted and at a loss for words. With California Blues, the web sites, major tours planned, the future looked so bright. I've seen Spirit in Chicago virtually every year since '72 and got to know Randy a bit along the way. His optimism and good nature were inspiriational. Of course, his music speaks for itself. Randy had a unique sound and a unique vision and remained true to his vision even in the face of adversity. There is a huge loss with Randy's passing. My heart goes out to all his family.
Phil Zisook, Highland Park, Illinois.
Patrick Gaudin
If the report is accurate that Randy rescued his son from drowning while, at the same time, sacrificing his own life, then he is truly a hero. I used to think of him as a super guitar hero. He has far surpassed that title and has now become a saver of a human life at the risk of losing his own, which unfortunately looks as though he has. If there is a Heaven then Randy surely has acquired a seat for what he has done. I will always remember him for his spectacular musical accomplishments as well as a man who was a truly great father.
Rest In Peace, Randy
Patrick Gaudin, Maui, Hawaii
Danny Mager
When I first bought TWELVE DREAMS OF DR. SARDONICUS at a used record sale at Princeton University in 1981, it was a total fluke. I was simply a 17 year old Deadhead looking for the most psychedelic album cover around. Little did I know that it would go on to become my favorite album of all-time, bar none. One of the best birthday presents I ever received was the SPIRIT box set, Time Circle, a few years back. Randy's music has been with me through many great adventures. The only time I met him was after a SPIRIT show at the Crystal Corner Bar in Madison, WI. He signed my original copy of SARDONICUS and when I asked the amazingly youthful looking California what his secret to longevity was, he simply smiled and said, "A whole lot of Vitamin C". He was definitely one of the most underrated, all-time greats. Hopefully his old buddy Hendrix was the first to greet at the Fillmore Way North...
D-Man
Randy Starks
Johan:
Thanks so much for posting the thoughts of those of us who loved Randy and his music. I, too, have been searching for information since last weekend, and although I've now seen it in print it's still so hard to believe. When I was in school and listening to SPIRIT back in 1970 I never dreamed I would meet Randy and Ed, but twenty years later I was able to tell them how much their music had meant to me. And speaking to Bernice the first time was one of the most memorable moments of my life. The sense of family that surrounds the band has always been important to me. I was so proud to introduce my sons to Randy at an outdoor concert, and he always asked about them. I'll never forget him sitting in the trailer after performing at the Westchester Funfest outside Chicago last summer. He was tired, but he became really animated while telling the boys a great story about the invention of the potato chip! When we last spoke he was really excited about the upcoming release of CALIFORNIA BLUES and the re-release of the first four albums on CD. I have made some wonderful friends through Randy and SPIRIT, and I think we would all agree that his message has always been positive and full of hope. I'll miss him like a brother. Our thoughts should be with Bernice, Ed, Quinn and the rest of the SPIRIT family in their loss.
Randy Starks
James A. Gardner
I first heard about Randy's disappearance yesterday (Jan. 7 and I am still hopeful that he will be found, alive and well. In the (sadly, most likely) event that he is not, I will always appreciate and value the music he gave us, and marvel at the talent he possessed. More than anything, though, I think that Randy's greatest legacy is the son that he was able to save. He will be remembered by me, not only as a guitar hero, but as a heroic father. My family's thoughts and prayers are with Randy's family.
James A. Gardner
Kathleen Eagan
Last night I happened to pick up a newspaper for a quick browse. I was stunned to read about your disappearance. I thought I'd get a chance to see you again. I had a funny story to tell you...
Thanks for all your support of my endeavors over the years. I'm glad you were in Molokai when you had to leave this plane. Somehow your beautiful way out is appropriate and complete. I'll miss your gentle intensity. We'll all remember your final act; your heroic move that saved your son.
Reinaldo Alves
Dear friend and all who loves Randy.
I just can't believe this is true. I saw on Deep Purple Web site, as a friend sent an e-mail from Canada telling this horrible news.
I love Purple and of course California too and Spirit.
I think REAL rock an roll will never be the same whithout Randy.
A talented man that deserved more respect by media.
I enjoy his efforts and career. Unfortunalety I had no time before to try to find out this site in Internet.
If this is really true let's stay together and keep on rockin' like Randy would do himself.
God bless you Randy wherever you are. We will never forget the good days.
Reinaldo
Robert Ernst
I was saddened to hear of RC's demise. I loved Spirit. I saw them in Reno on their Spirit 1984 tour. It was at a small venue. I had a table up front next to the stage. Jay was there, and the whole original band. During a guitar solo Randy game out to my table, took my beer bottle and played slide guitar riffs with it. That beer never tasted so GOOD. We will miss you Randy, you were one of a kind.
Rob
Hello, my name is Simon Hart and I represent a company called Stage One, we were working in connection with Marc Santori from Legend in France and another chap called Francoise from Hsn in arranging to bring Randy and the band to the U.K for a mini tour in march. Due to the very tragic and sad news it is now fond memories of a man who gave some much pleasure to us over here in the U.K. My sympathies are to all his family and friends and we'll sure miss him from all Spirit fans in the U.K.
Simon Hart
Johan,
The world is alot less today than it was. I told you I was not a religious person, but I tried to be hopeful. After 5 days, its hard to do, but I spoke to a friend in Hawaii last night and she said they do find people washed up on shore from time to time, maybe there's a miracle out there for Randy.
I feel so sad for Ed. This must be hell for him, and Randy's son, it's got to be hard on a twelve year old to see your father get washed away...
It's up to people like us to keep Randy's Spirit alive!!! Don't ever let him go, turn on any and everyone who will listen. It's hard to find anything good about this, but he appeared very happy last I saw him (Tired, but happy). Not too many people have an opportunity to pursue what they really love in life. Randy has been pursuing his love and has been, at times, very successful at it off and on for thirty years.
Keep in touch,
John
"I have from time to time, searched the web for the discography of SPIRIT. This morning I learned of Randy's death, which prompted me to search a little on his name. Your web was one of many interesting sites.
My hat is off to you for paying respect to such a good group as SPIRIT. Short of "Got A Line On You" most people don't even know who they are! I have a pile of their records, and have bought duplicates on CD from a source in Europe. They were really an "act before their time", as jazz-fusion did not become popular until many years later.
Randy's passing touches me personally, as I knew him growing up in Santa Monica and Venice California. We attended Lincoln Junior High together, where his band "Red Rooster" played at one of the dances. Red Rooster was the name before Spirit, with the exact player lineup. I remember, in 10th grade at Santa Monica HS, when Randy dropped out to go to New York. Perhaps almost a year later, he re-appeared in our circle of friends, now playing as Spirit working as the "warm-up" band for Jefferson Airplane. Not long after that, they had made a name for themselves as a headline act. Every concert they played was done with amazing professionalism.
I'll never forget attending jam-sessions at his mother's house in Topanga canyon, and a nice party at John Locke's house nearby. Ed Cassidy, Randy's stepdad was one of a few parents that could be in sync with "we teenagers" at that time.
I used to get into most of the concerts around Los Angeles with the band, getting in with them carrying equiptment for them. There were some nice times backstage and in the dressing rooms. I have not seen Randy since about 1973, but those times have placed an warm indelible image in my memory.
We will all miss Randy. He has left some amazing music with us. Perhaps, in Heaven, he will finally be back together with his friend Jimi James again."
Peace,
Allan MacDonald