Scott took a little break from RIP posts, but today they're back again. Since last we tributed, four quality musical talents have passed. Let's reference them here, shall we?
Alan Vega was the kind of artist who you either find or you don't. If you don't find him, you'll think someone else invented the things they took from him. If you do find him, you'll instantly understand why so many different musicians took the time to mourn him. This song from one of Vega's solo records (I think using equipment borrowed from The Cars) marks him as a sort of digital Lou Reed. Vega was also better known as half of Suicide. One of their songs will be ending this post.
We've got some other goodbyes first, though. Press on...
Bernie Worrell - I'll Be With You
Bernie Worrell was kind of everywhere. He could do jazz piano, he was a vital member of the P-Funk sound and he is responsible for my absolute favorite Talking Heads moment in which he absolutely dominates an already impressive band. I could link all day and still find more. He was an absolute powerhouse and he'll be missed.
Ralph Stanley - A Man Of Constant Sorrow
If you don't listen to bluegrass, you're only cheating yourself. Ralph Stanley wasn't the most famous of pop stars, but he had over half a century of experience and was once even a labelmate of James Brown. And listen to that sound. LISTEN TO IT. The Dr. will be missed.
Prince Be/PM Dawn - Looking Through Patient Eyes
The early 1990s was a weird time for music because so many things were open. The idea of a psychedelic trip hop band just kinda fit in a wonderful way. Prince Be was sort of the face and voice of this duo, and even people who hated him had to admit he was pretty damn original. I've chosen this song (out of many different hits) because of what happens at about 1:55. Start talking along with Prince Be and see how far you get before saying "Wait, hold up, what exactly is he talking about?" And yet, somehow, his flow is perfect.
Yes, Suicide fans, I did consider putting Frankie Teardrop in this space. But ultimately "Dream Baby Dream" is such a magical and uncompromising ballad that's still soaked in punk rock, and I had to follow my heart. If Alan Vega did nothing else, it would have all been worth it for this one song. And if you don't agree with me, take it up with another Alan Vega fan.
RIP to all of 2016's artists. We have the feeling we're gonna have at least one more post like this before December. Let us just remind you: some images come from the corresponding Wikipedia page and are here under fair use. See you next week.