Hey Paulie,
I’ve never written anything like this before so bear with me.
Now even though I’d really, really like to berate you about Man U losing to Man City or throw in an inappropriate *lick* reference somewhere, I’m going to keep this one strictly PG – sorry Gareth.
Do you remember 9 months ago when we sat in the sunlit courtyard of Great Dane and chatted about Southern Gypsey Queen’s upcoming 10 year celebration set at Koppi? Do you remember what Gareth said halfway through?
He quoted Isaac as saying that you were the most rockstar musician he’d ever met because you didn’t drink or smoke or do any of those other silly things, but that you still partied harder and jammed harder than any of them. Naturally, this was because you were the epitome of a life-sized Duracell bunny.
Watching you in action behind your drum kit was an honest-to-god thing of beauty, and you always laughed at me when I spoke about the “fire” I saw creep over your entire face each time you were onstage. That presence will remain unwavering and never-ending in our hearts, minds and in the music you left behind.
It’s customary to remember and share only the positive about somebody when they leave this world but when it comes to you, positive memories are really all I have, plus I know I’m not alone on this one. And don’t even get me started on that ridiculously large smile of yours.
Buddy, you were born to make music and I know that your solo venture would’ve been yet another feather in your cap. Wherever you are now, I know you’re already sewing some beats together. I just hope the company you’re in know how lucky they are to have you.
All my love.
XX
“That’s one thing I’ve learnt from Noot vir Noot, if you do a drum solo in a small town you get a clap going.” – Paul Wilson
