It has been a long, long while since I’ve done a Rockin’ Roundup here at the Guru. However, the recent news on the passing of Chuck Berry made me consider the need for the first roundup since I don’t know when. I was toying with the idea of penning a eulogy to the late great Chuck Berry, but what could I say that hasn’t been said already? What words could I put down that others haven’t stated more eloquently? Instead, I did the research and rounded up the best tributes and memories that are out on the world-wide-web.
Chuck Berry was a true legend of real rock and roll. He
paved the way for countless musicians to pick up a guitar and make their way
into rock music. He inspired numerous musicians and invented a truly unique
style. From Angus Youngs’ on stage duck walk copy, to The Rolling Stones
endless (and fabulous) covers, Chuck Berry was a creative force that everyone
wanted to emulate but very few could. He lived a long and productive life and
his music will live on forever.
Here’s the Chuck Berry tributes that rocked:
The New York Times always write great obituaries and
their tribute to fallen hero Chuck Berry is no exception. Part biography, part
farewell, and filled with numerous facts, The New York times gave a touching
remembrance on Chuck Berry.
Billboard did a nice little roundup of their own. They
collected tweets and statements from musicians across the web paying their
respects and saying goodbye to the master. Chuck Berry truly crossed all genres
and influences countless musicians whether they were rock, rap, country, jazz,
or some other type of music. It’s hard to find someone who didn’t love Chuck
Berry’s music.
Time magazine put together a wonderful collage of photos
from Chuck Berry’s life. There are some real classics shots included as well as
some poignant photos. Pictures of him with some legends including Michael
Jackson, John Lennon, and Mick Jagger are all there. I am particularly fond of
the simple photo of Chuck Berry in London wearing a three piece suit and looking
very content. I hope that he was able to live most of his days that way.
Guitar World dug up the clips of John Lennon and Chuck
Berry performing together on the Mike Douglas show in 1972. These videos are
fabulous and definitely worth a few minutes of your time if you haven’t seen
them already. And if you have seen them, they are certainly worth a re-watch.
And finally, we have The National Review’s remembrance of
Chuck Berry. It combines an articulate obituary and several video clips of
musicians covering Chuck Berry songs or jamming with the master himself. If you
plan to watch them all, be sure to set aside a good chunk of time. You’re going
to need it.
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