Howard was there for me during that time-he could see how frustrated I was and how much I wanted these songs to be heard-we had become such close friends and he had been through everything. Meanwhile he was busy writing with so many different artists, producing records and making countless friends along the way simply because of his infectious personality.
When I resigned to Universal in 2003 Howard was one of the first people I called. We all went out and celebrated even though I knew how much work was ahead. I wrote a whole new album of songs with my close friends Judie Tzuke, Graham Kearns, Pete Gordeno, Cheryl Parker, Charlie Russell and ofcourse Howard. "Forget me not" stayed with me and we put it on the album "Breathe in". I never stopped loving the song and it remains my song for that album. I performed it all over the world and Howard was there on the first gig i did to cheer me on.
We were back in the studio together many times during and after that writing some very special songs, some of which were covered by other artists and others myself. Our song "Almost" from my album "the Same side" was a very personal song that we both poured out hearts into and reminded me how much he had been there for me through so many ups and downs. I remember my showcase at Ronnie Scotts for my 2nd album release and Howard was sitting right by the stage with a huge smile on his face and clapping louder than most people in the room-i could feel his love, support and pride that night-i would do anything to be able to see his smiling face again.
His wife Jane and Daughter Scarlet remained the centre of his whole world throughout. He talked about them constantly and so much of what he put in his songs came from them. He was so proud to be a dad and seemingly wanted to make her proud of him too.
During his life he overcame so much and on top of that inspired us with his songwriting, his musicianship, his loyalty, his vibrance, his open mind and heart, his ambition and most of all his unconditional kindness.
He was a huge part of my life and my career and I will never forget him. My heart is broken to lose such a person from this world but I will continue to cherish Howard always and hope that the songs he wrote continue to impact people the way they have already.
At first I thought it would be too tough to sing "Forget me not" from now on, but now i think it's even more important to put my heart and soul into for him, continue to love singing it and remember how amazing he was every time i do.
My love to his family, may he rest in peace, and my love to you for all you are and all you have done for me in my own life. Wishing you love, happiness and the will to make the most of everyone and everything you are blessed with.
My thanks always
Lucie