hey everyone -
I hope this finds you well.
Today we lost Tim Krekel. For those of you who didn't have to the pleasure of knowing the man or his music, I felt a responsibility to share.
My mom is a cool old hippie chic, and many of her friends are extremely gifted artists
of every stripe. She held Tim, "Timmy" she called him, in the highest esteem and spoke of him often. Tim was a bit of a legend, having played guitar with Jimmy Buffett way back when, as well as releasing many stellar records of his own. His songs were so beautifully written and his delivery so southern-refined, he was a rare talent indeed. Tim's songs have been covered by Alan Jackson, Delbert McClinton, Patty Loveless, Crystal Gale, and many other prominent artists.
Tim and I had spoken on the phone a few times in mid 2008 and last October we finally met. I was on an east coast tour and Tim had arranged a show for me at a funky place in Louisville, Kentucky - where he was still living at the time of his passing. Meeting Tim was the only reason I took the show. Not the most glamourous gig I've ever done, but
he played the place often, and I thought 'if it was good enough for him...'.
We spoke briefly before and at length after my show. He really seemed to like my songs and said I was a 'mighty fine' guitarist as well. Mission accomplished! He was such a badass and for him think I was good - I knew my mom would be pleased and I really felt validated. Although maybe not a household name, Tim Krekel was a world class act and a real sweetheart. I am a better man having known him.
That night I gave him my records, and he had brought me a copy of 'World Keeps Turnin'. I have listened to it countless times since. The song 'The Angel's Share' just got me the first time I heard it and now ranks up there with my all time favorites. I've been working up a cover of it...now I'll have to get it JUST RIGHT!!!
Thanks for inspiring us, Tim.
Check out a great performance of 'The Angel's Share' here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dBLlcy8JpTM
http://timkrekel.com
Until next time, Warmest wishes,
SA