Let’s face it,  many relationships formed in this profession come and go. I’m sure this rings true for those reading this. But I am so very thankful for the blessing and eternal joy of knowing guitarist Chuck Loeb, who died on July 31, 2017 at the age of 61 after being a member of Local 802 for almost 40 years. Who among his friends and music buddies weren’t completely overwhelmed by hearing of his passing? “Not Chuck!” reverberated throughout the community. He was a true friend to countless. His creative skills and talents were immensely broad and versatile. A sweeter and more honest person? Keep looking. And by the way, did you ever see anyone practice as much as Chuck? It’s like the stories about Coltrane…the practicing didn’t stop. In a studio during day-long sessions, that guitar and he never parted company. Endless scales and lines were a continuous backdrop to our conversations and the passing of the time. Many of you know what I mean. And yes, the only thing that could suspend that was a call from Carmen, Christina or Lizzie. There you go…they were the real music in Chuck’s life.

 (For more on Mr. Loeb’s career, see www.ChuckLoeb.com.)