While many fine performers have graced the Arrowhead Center for the Arts (ACA) stage, few have drawn the attention or admiration that Leon Redbone did when he performed here almost 20 years ago.
An accomplished guitarist and acclaimed jazz/blues singer who put out 16 albums, Redbone had an unmistakable singing style and an unusual low, nasally voice.
Seated on a stool with his guitar and spotlight on him, Leon filled the auditorium with his wry wit and songs that he often pulled from the 1890’s to 1910 era.
The Canadian singer died Thursday, May 30, in hospice care in Bucks County, Pa.
Famous for his Panama hat, bushy mustache and dark sunglasses, Redbone was a man of mystery. Who was he, really? What was his real name and were there—are there—any pictures of him out of his disguise?
Hopefully not. A little intrigue is a good thing.
No cause of death was given, but, in keeping with the singer’s tendency towards secrecy and good-natured silliness, his death was announced with a bit of rumbling thunder and tuning fork sweetness, “It is with heavy hearts we announce that early this morning, May 30th 2019, Leon Redbone crossed thee delta for that beautiful shore at the age of 127.
“He departed our world with his guitar, his trusty companion Rover, and a simple tip of the hat. He’s interested to see what Blind Blake, Emmett, and Jelly Roll have been up to in his absences, and has plans for a rousing sing along number with Sari Barabas. An eternity of pouring through texts in the Library of Ashuranipal will be welcome repose, perhaps followed by a shot or two of whiskey with Lee Morse, and some long overdue discussions with his favorite uncle, Suppiluliuma 1 of the Hittites. To his fans, friends, and loving family who have already been missing him in this realm he says, ‘Oh behave yourselves. Thank you…and good evening everybody.”’
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