Gil Scott-Heron
I awoke yesterday to the sad news that Gil had passed away at the young age of 62.
Whatever I say here will never sum up the influence this man, his words, his music has had on my life. I was not born to a life of hardship or depravity, but often seek solace in his words.
I first encountered the music of Gil and Brian Jackson in a sweaty club many years ago as we all shuffled around the dance floor to the rhythm of ‘the bottle’, yet it was many years before the message hit home and put an end to my years of alcohol abuse. Similarly, ‘your daddy loves you’ was a constant play (alongside Bill Withers’ – I’m her daddy) in the years following my divorce from the mother of my three daughters.
I am sure his words will continue to encourage, support and nurture thousands for many years to come…
Gil Scott-Heron April 1, 1949 – May 27, 2011. Peace go with you brother…
Gil Scott-Heron, the revolution will be live!