The music community in Kentucky is saying goodby tomorrow to Mike Allen, a musical giant in this area.

I began working with Mike in 1964. He was a Bill Evans type player who stuck to his musical beliefs. He was fairly well known in jazz circles and played around the world
in some impressive venues. Around here, he was a society and horse industry favorite.

I doubt any of you have ever heard of him, but he kept true to his musical vision, and
lived a modest life, not doing as well, financially, as players of half his ability.

But, that was his choice.

I just wanted to tell people who would understand that Mike's life had meaning and that he made a difference. We argued (he hated arrangers), competed, laughed and developed that high level of unspoken communications and mutual joy so common among long-time collaborators. His passing makes the recent bickering here seem so insignificant.

Man, I'll miss the guy.


Russ