In memory of Toots Hibbert R.I.P
In the 60’s, Toots and The Maytels were a ska and rocksteady band that were instrumental in bringing reggae to the world. I was captivated by Reggae Got Soul in the 70’s. Pressure Drop was another great song, covered by many, including Robert Palmer. The third song that lives with me is Never Get Weary.
Very sad to hear of Martin Birch’s passing. Meeting Martin at the start of the 70’s, was a pivotal moment in our lives. He was our sound engineer at a time when the experience of live shows was coming into the studio. He managed to capture the beast, particularly on Hard Loving Man. He bonded with us immediately, had the same sense of humour, and was thoroughly professional.
It would be an enormous understatement to say it’s a drag that all touring has been postponed until next year. That means that our crew is out of work. One of the ways to support them is with a special tee shirt offer, with all proceeds going to them.
We hope to be ready to tour again next year.
To find out more, please visit…
https://deeppurple.com/blogs/news/exclusive-crew-merch
Thank you,
RG
Words are hard to find. Rupert was one of my oldest and dearest friends.
Insightful, stimulating, talented and funny, I feel privileged to have known and worked with him. An absolute gentleman. I produced his first album in 1971, Pick Up A Bone, with his partner David MacIver. He went on to be one of the most innovative and influential producers around and broke boundaries in the emerging recording technology of the 70s.
Skoots, my good friend, is gone. Sad news indeed, I’m devastated. A kinder, more generous, good-hearted man you couldn’t wish to meet. He changed my life and my music. My thoughts are with those close to him and all his many friends.
RG