Used to ride 250 cc Yamaha trail bikes with Mel in the Desert outside LA. in the early 60's. He actually demonstrated improve possibilities by having me play guitar, with him on piano. He was a hell of a piano player, and got universal appreciation from serious musicians and singers around the world. He was so good, he was confidant and kind at the same time. Same with Ray Brown and (I hear) Vince Gill.

He was the one who convinced me (by actions, not words) that what I wanted to do was not going to pay what other musical endeavors would.

A delightful person, who, in a few visits, influenced my for a lifetime.


Russ