genius

 

I am always mindful when the word hero is used when thinking about Christopher Hitchens, who used the term in reference to George Orwell

"who might have been my hero if I had heroes"

well, I'm going out on a limb here.

a hero and a genius.

Ian Dury

so I go back to a moment in time and an outlook that embraced me, at least musically - the shock of the new.

now there was a time when I had a circle of people who I trusted and their recommendation was enough. You could buy music without having heard it. If it was wrong you were banished from the circle for life, because import records were more expensive, so the words "I can't believe I spent 20 bucks on this pile of shit!!!" - and you were out.

the first album and what is this all about? A tiny skinhead on the front cover with a a boy in front of cut price clothing store. Then the first track, Sex & Drugs & Rock & Roll. I have no idea what the hell is going on. The rest of the disc and I am confronted with such an amazing blend of musical styles that are so bold and strong, with these lyrics full of a new ironic outlook.

late night music television and they start broadcasting live concerts and I am hooked. I am there.

now, there was some controversy in Australia. Inviting him to be a guest on a music awards show because he might be  - controversial. The irony in all this is that when he finally arrived here, he was hilarious and amazing.

I'm a bit reluctant to use video aids - I'll let my bad writing speak for itself, but this song came across as a whole new slant on a "punk" anthem.

because we were out here in remote Australia, we never heard that the song was banned from British radio. Later research finds it becoming an anthem for the Paralympics.

so many great tunes over time; I can't talk about them all or I'll be here forever.

and the genius? I never even remotely thought of him being disabled.

I never even remotely thought of him being unable

even after his death - still don't think that way now. When I hear someone great has passed away like Lyle Mays or Maurizio Arcieri, then I read the condolences I usually reply

how can they be dead? Just listen.