John Entwistle 1944-2002

As a drummer, I've always had an affection for bass players, and John was by far, my most favorite bass player of all time.

I first got into the Who right before they broke up. Face Dances was the first Who album I bought. Of course, I later discovered their vast back catalog, and became a huge fan. "Who's Next" was the first tape I ever wore out in my Walkman. I had played that tape so many times it had stretched to the point of being unlistenable. I did get to see The Who on their 89 reunion tour.

When I turned 18 and was finally old enough to get into clubs, the first show I went to see was the John Entwistle band at the Stone in San Francisco. I was right upfront, and stood what seemed like only inches from where he stood on stage. Outside the club, he autographed the back of my ticket stub.

His solo album's "Too Late the Hero" title track was on my favorite all time songs, a song I've always wanted to cover. His song "The Quiet One" from the Who's "Face Dance" album was my personal anthem as a teenager.

For my birthday, my girlfriend gave me a ticket to go see the Who at the Hollywood bowl. I kept saying how much I wanted to go before one of them kicked. John died a mere four days before I was redeem my birthday present and see the worlds greatest rock and roll band one last time.

John Entwistle, I will miss you.

~Ian


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