Messages

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They Came To Hear The Music

From: Jay Carlton
Email: jaycarlton@songwriter.net
Remote Name: 12.232.32.32
Date: 07-Oct-2002
Time: 12:49 AM

Comments

I saw Mickey twice in concert in the mid-70's ... GREAT, intimate shows. Then, in 1977, I saw he was going to be appearing at a small night club called The Cellar in the San Francisco Bay Area. I don't remember now how I found out his phone number and address in Vida, OR., but as a freelance photojournalist I called him to see if I could shoot his 3 shows and interview him for an article I was writing on spec for the San Francisco Chronicle.

His wife, Susan, answered the phone and said he'd be home soon. I introduced myself and told her why I was calling, and she said she was sure he'd be very willing to let me interview him and take photos. He returned my call (I was so excited I could hardly breathe!) and we chatted for about 30 minutes. By the time we hung up, it felt like we were old buddies renewing a great friendship.

The first night of his shows the club owner escorted me to Mickey's dressing room prior to the show to meet him, and after the show my wife, Kathi, and I were warmly greeted by Mickey and Susan backstage. The interview was casual and informal, but I got plenty of info for my Chronicle article which I called "They Came To Hear The Music", a little title twist after one of my favorite songs of his.

I returned for the following two night’s shows, and like on opening night, sat at a perfect table near the stage, and afterward spent some more time just chatting with my new friend. One night I brought his albums, which he graciously autographed. Unfortunately, the Chronicle chose not to accept my article, but I sent a copy to Mickey so he would know that at least I'd tried.

Over the years many songwriters have influenced my own songwriting, but Mickey's influence touched me very deeply. Maybe it was because his songs helped me through a particularly tough time I was going through in my life during the mid-70's, or perhaps it was how easily we made friends. The more I think of it, the more I'm convinced it was both. I had always dreamed of someday co-writing with him, but for now I'll have to be content with my dream of someday playing along with him in that great night club in heaven.

I can see it now ... so many gathering to meet Mickey and listen to him sing his legendary songs. They've come to hear the music.

God bless you, Susan, and your wonderful family.

Affectionately,

Jay Carlton jaycarlton@songwriter.net

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