Over
my fifteen years performing with Charlie Biddle I learned a great deal about the
essence of jazz. Charlie would say, to become a great jazz musician you had to
accept its source of origin, dedicate yourself to learning the principals and
be willing to sacrifice everything in the long run.Night
after night I would watch Charlie surrender to his music. I would observe as he
became one with his bass. He gave a tremendous amount of energy toward performing
and accepted nothing but the best out of his musicians. Charlie
was a unique individual. He was a great man who loved jazz and did whatever it
took to maintain its high standards. It's hard to find the appropriate words to
express the depth of my love and appreciation but Mr. Biddle was like a father
to me. He took me into his wings and guided me into the man I am today. Fifteen
years are a long time to perform with one person but every minute of those golden
years will remain close to my heart. Thank you Charlie Biddle, you are indeed
my essence of jazz, may peace and blessing be upon you.
|