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hvy2nz
First Love
USA
19 Posts |
Posted - 21/12/2004 : 22:02:01
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Listen to I Still Wonder....a couple times....thats where Arthur Lee was the night of 12.18.2004 |
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bigrubberglove
Fourth Love
188 Posts |
Posted - 21/12/2004 : 22:02:05
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As a follow-up, I would like for someone who was at the show to please give a more detailed account of ehat exactly happened.
The picture I envision is not pretty. It sounds like Arthur was out of his head and the whole band carried on without him. Did he sing at all? What was he actually doing during the show? Did he ever talk?
Someone mentioned that he apologized three ways about the show.
The irony of ironies would be if Echols joined Baby Lemonade next year and Arthur had no band. That would have to doubly sting Arthur and maybe be awkward for Echols, who was pulled into the new Love.
So again, I think it useful for us to have all the facts. That way our comments will be more useful.
And by the way, I am a heavy participant on this board and must say that I think that the vast majority of the people on the board love the band and Mike Randle. I don't see private e-mails sent to Mike, but what's not to like? I do not detect much antagonism towards him. Really just the opposite even though the occassional crank finds his way here.
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John E
Fifth Love
United Kingdom
322 Posts |
Posted - 21/12/2004 : 22:06:27
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Thanks to everyone that has posted on this thread, for your really well-considered comments. Those who have posted since my earlier post, have put into words thoughts that I was too cautious to express here. As bigrubberglove says, it seems fairly apparent that Arthur has a substance problem. Okay, this stuff might seems very glamorous when it's confined to rock myth or some doomed youth, but if Arthur lets it get the better of him at this stage in the game, then he just becomes a sad loser. Even John Cale (for God's sake!) was strong enough to kick the habit. The terrible tragedy is that Arthur really has so much else going for him...we know he can be a great singer and performer, women of all ages find him attractive, and furthermore, he has got a really sweet side to his Pisces duality. He joked with me in a friendly way, when I got him to sign my Forever Changes album in 2003, and even extended HIS hand to shake mine, when I was sitting in the front row at Cambridge earlier this year(obviously recognising me as a regular Love supporter). By the way (Jazzy Mary) your initial contact with Mike was similar to mine. He e-mailed me promptly, when I e-mailed him about the "Leonard Cohen" take-off on the cover of his first album. Since then, we've met and e-mailed each other on many occasions, and I think of him as a real friend (Hannah's a lovely girl, too). Love to all, John E |
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hvy2nz
First Love
USA
19 Posts |
Posted - 21/12/2004 : 22:53:40
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....a detailed account of what happened....the oc scrawler has been pretty accurate. Arthur sang the full 22 minute signed dc....his harp playing was outstanding. By the third song all those lyrics Rusty re taught him vanished before his eyes. The whole band stepped up and went on. Arthur sat down in front of the bass drum sorta leaning on it. All of a sudden he would stand up and begin singing with the band. Between songs he spoke about varied topics: the pit bull knocked him down and broke his ribs on his right side (there might have been pills involved) than there was the michael jackson story (he couldn't understand mj's thing for kids) me either! than (refering to himself) he said he asked a guy laying in the curb "why do you do this to your self....he had no answer. Echols a animated man playing a guitar that looked like a miniture played with so much soul the whole band you guys are so great, by wife is still talking about the band being so tight! One time he said he was doing the best he could, another time he said he would do better next time One time he said he wasnt ashamed of being up here like this. This could easily be construed as being rude. The whole crowd was very respectful the whole night, I do believe the nite built up on the band. Me personally and a few other patrons would stand up and cheer when he would sing on time on key. His movements were all in slow motion, when he talked between songs he was so faint it was next to impossible to understand. You all can tell I'm a newbie here its not my intention to diss the man any thing I said that might be inaccurate is not intentional. They played about 80 minutes. He stayed and signed stuff and talked to us. All you here, the scrawlers, readers admin person etc. should all be proud of what is said @ this web sight, expressing the love and concern for this man. I'm sorry I carried on so long but this was my first Arthur Lee/Love show. On the way down to the CH in OC from TO, I played a casette of four sail, It was 15 years since I saw/played this tape. We never went over 4 miles a hour on the sepulveda pass, but my wife and I both were so calm, he was able to take us away from reality for 39 minutes (?)LONG LIVE ARTHUR LEE |
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Lina
First Love
USA
19 Posts |
Posted - 21/12/2004 : 23:41:26
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So sorry to hear all this news.
On the one hand it isn't a huge suprise, given his uneven performances during these past several months. But, when you think about the spectacular and utterly transcendent shows thay also have done, it is very much a downer to have it all end on this note. What should have been a continuing triumph for Arthur has been cut short by his own hand.
Much love and respect to all the players involved, particularly Baby Lemonade, and especially Mike for keeping his Diary that we have all been able to experience with him, the ups and the downs. That anyone would have sent mean and rude e-mails to him is beyond me. Though I have not had much contact with him he has always been the very nicest guy you could hope to meet.
I am glad that before this trip ended I was able to witness the unbelievable shows at HOB in Hollywood, and the second show at Spaceland earlier this year. That Spaceland show was in fact the last LOVE show I witnessed, and if that's the very last LOVE show I have to remember them by, then I'll always have that incredibly great memory to make me smile.
Good luck to EVERYONE! I do hope Arthur gets his head on straight.
Peace |
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markk
Old Love
USA
803 Posts |
Posted - 22/12/2004 : 00:20:09
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I don't want to repeat what's already been said, but I have to say something, cause I can't believe how deeply this disturbs me. I too met Arthur and he was so gracious and friendly, yet somehow I didn't think that was the real him, but I accepted it gladly. I sometimes wonder if Arthur would accept a demise like other rock stars, dead at 24 or dead at 50. But don't forget, this man been thru a lot,and I know we all have, My point is that after serving jailtime, it could have ruined him and maybe he could have just faded away. But no, he came back and came back stronger than ever. I believe he will do it again, but Baby Lemonade may say enough is enough. And anyone that is rude or nasty to Mike just doesn't belong on this board.
It is possible that Arthur is very frustrated because he cannot create like he used to and that is why there is no new music .
Peace and love to all. |
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Fritz
First Love
15 Posts |
Posted - 22/12/2004 : 00:21:42
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I'm quite touched by all the messages of concern for Arthur's health as well as the future of the mighty, mighty Baby Lemonade.
This indeed is a sad time. As I've been faithfully reading the Mike Randle Diaries since spring 2002, folks like LizzyB and Caryne seem to me to be almost like family. Further, I am eternally grateful to Mike for his friendship and good humor as well as to Rusty, Daddy-O and Dave Chapple for making it possible for me to see the band that I've been in love with since Forever Changes grabbed me and wouldn't let go way back in 1971 - before I even had my driver's license. Never in my life did I think that I'd actually get to hear Love with Arthur Lee "live". Mike Randle and Company have made the genius of Arthur Lee and Love real and present.
Let's hope this Advent season, as someone else has stated, we experience a Christmas miracle and Arthur triumphs over his demons.
Either way, my debt to Baby Lemonade is huge and no matter what transpires in the upcoming months, I look forward to following the recordings and performances of this phenomenal, soulful and powerful band. |
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bob f.
Old Love
USA
1308 Posts |
Posted - 22/12/2004 : 04:46:22
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i was not at this show.i only want to add my imput. LEE has always been my favorite from day 1. i am grateful for all his magic, live, and recorded. saw him in 1966... all the way till a few months ago in at the wilshire, in l.a. ....yeah, sure, saw some trouble at the Royce Hall, heard of other stuff overseas, then this. God bless ARTHUR! please. lets just be cool, and gradually focus on sending Arthur Lee warm thoughts of white light healing energy and power to raise UP, UP, UP, UP...AND BE RIGHT!!!! |
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Punkgurl
First Love
2 Posts |
Posted - 22/12/2004 : 07:31:00
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I was also at the Coach House on Saturday night and I may be alone in my belief that Arthur was in physical pain from breaking ribs. Ouch! He may have just been in a lot of pain and could not get out of the show due to contractural obligations. If he has a substance abuse problem ( which I have no idea if he does or doesn't) he would not be able to take pain med and would explain him being in a lot of discomfort that evening. I will pray for him to be well. He is one of my favorites of all time. Punkgurl |
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Gill
Fourth Love
United Kingdom
213 Posts |
Posted - 22/12/2004 : 09:42:46
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I can't really add much to what's already been said. I've had a wonderful time over the past couple of years and as much as I don't want it to come to an end it's always been a probability rather than a possibility.
I think Baby Lemonade have done a brilliant job to bring Arthur's music back to life with such commitment and they have all certainly earned my respect and admiration. I hope to see them all again and will continue to support their career.
Love Gill |
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LarryNYC
Fifth Love
USA
310 Posts |
Posted - 22/12/2004 : 09:52:07
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If indeed Arthur has damaged ribs all he would need is a doctors certificate to that effect and the show could be resheduled. Sadly I think there is more to it than that. I'm sure the lads in Baby Lemonade would not be pissed off with him if he was suffering from a genuine mishap or injury. Whatever happens with the band lets hope Arthur can sort himself out and regain a healthier lifestyle. As mentioned before unfortunatley he seems to get worse the longer he is on home turf, perhaps rehab and relocation ? |
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Allan
Old Love
USA
560 Posts |
Posted - 22/12/2004 : 14:47:24
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I've been reading this post for the past 2 days now and just wanted it all to sink in.
I am deeply saddened reading this. It was just 2 short months ago that I saw the band for the first and second time in my life...at Town Hall and Collingswood. Some say that the band was near the top of their game-Arthur, Johnny, Mike, Rusty, Dave and Daddy-O were just outstanding.
It's very plain to read from all the fans here just how much we care about Arthur and the Band. Arthur must be deeply troubled. If he only truly knew just how much so many people care for him. As an 'icon', a 'genious', and the absolute 'leader of the 60's LA scene', I merely stand in line behind the thousands that are in awe of this man. But as a mere mortal, Arthur is no different than any of us. The trials and tribulations of life are hard. Many of us have fought thru demons in our time-and it isn't easy. I can only wish Arthur the best-he needs to face the toughest battle of his life. If he could only reach out to any of us...he would get the best support.
I met Mike and Johnny and Dave and Arthur...they even signed my FC LP cover. I have the utmost respect for the Band, have e-mailed with Mike a few times, and no doubt about it, Baby Lemonade and Johnny are the nicest and best people for Arthur and the fans. I wish Arthur could see that.
My thoughts and prayers are with Arthur this holiday season. And with the Band members also.
Arthur-get well and come back. I heard you say to the audiences this past October to "Share the LOVE". We're all sharing the LOVE with you...now it's your turn. Please Arthur...open your eyes.
Allan |
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hvy2nz
First Love
USA
19 Posts |
Posted - 22/12/2004 : 17:02:25
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Let me say again "you people here" practice the luv here, but i feel so much pain. If anybody i said anybody...can get somebody to make a "official statement" regarding the circumstances leading up to the ch show or knows arthur or knpws the band members or maybe somebody that is actually in the band : ) please tell us. but till than..... |
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jazzy mary
Third Love
USA
95 Posts |
Posted - 22/12/2004 : 17:14:04
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Allan and Fritz, I agree with your posts whole heartedly. Arthur needs to get out of himself and get his creative juices flowing--and get rid of the pitbull (what possessed him to get a dog like that anyway??).
If any of of you know Arthur well enough to tell him this--tell him JM says to go to a record store and get John Coltrane's "Transitions" and "Crescent" immediately. Put them on, LISTEN, think, reflect, meditate and get to work!!
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Edited by - jazzy mary on 22/12/2004 17:14:46 |
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hvy2nz
First Love
USA
19 Posts |
Posted - 22/12/2004 : 17:47:44
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...but till than...hopefully somebody out there can help me, Arthur said right away he just lost his friend its hard to tell, but i'm pretty sure he said Don Compton> any body out there........than about 3 minutes further into the song...."I JUST ASKED FOR THREE DAYS....3 DAYS!...3 DAYS!!...3 DAYS!!!..after my homeboy died"
than: NOW I'M HERRRRRRRRRRRREE....SINGING THIS SONG TO YOUUUUUUUUUUUUU...................
add to that, i bought my tickets i think tuesday b4 the concert on the fone @ ch....durning chit chat girl tells me love was canceled but also reinstated...i said how long ago she said 3 days.
can any one verify/add2 these quotes |
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