photo credit: Jimmy Saal
Lots of things I want to update you all on, but one certainly takes precedence. Longtime music journalist, publicist, DJ and all-around supporter of great music Tom Terrell succumbed to his battle with prostate cancer last week. My condolences to his family and friends. While we weren’t close, I had the good fortune to get to know Tom via my work with the Black Rock Coalition and my ongoing involvement with the progressive arts community. As many of you can attest, it’s begins to bring things home when people in your network–even if they’re not close friends–start passing away, as was the case this summer when Sekou Sundiata died.
Tom certainly touched a lot of people, as was evidenced by the packed turnout for a benefit that was held for him earlier this year. Performances at that event included folks like MeShell N’degeocello, Citizen Cope, Coati Mundi, Kelvyn Bell and a host of others. I remember him onstage during the finale, dancing with Coati Mundi and a whole crew of people, his hands in the air, his head thrown back and his signature smile on his face.
My friends and fellow travellers at Bluegum have posted some useful links, including some of his writing and details of the funeral arrangements. I echo their sentiments when I say also, Tom, rest in peace.
For those of you who can’t make it to DC, stay tuned for info on a New York memorial service.
