As a Hathaway fan, I must say this is the best piece I have ever read about him. The way you link his work, his life, his highs, his lows, with his heart, mind and soul is masterful. I have no words. My eyes were blurry with tears towards the end. Beautiful work. Thank you for this, especially because you somehow managed to bring him (and all his magic) back for a couple of minutes... or perhaps more importantly, because you showed us quite clearly that his outstanding legacy lives on, that in defiance of the rules of space and time there is a way we can tap into his spirit and realise that he never truly left.
And you did it beautifully. Your essay shows not only how much you know about him and his work, but also the depth of your connection with his music and his legacy.
And thank you so much! I’m honoured and grateful. Really glad you are enjoying my Substack!
"Donny Hathaway Live" is one of my most treasured/loved LP's and I had the privilege of being at Fenway Park, July 28, 1973 to see/hear him and Charles Mingus, Freddie Hubbard, Stevie Wonder, BB King and Rahsaan Roland Kirk. Truly an incredible day of music.
As a Hathaway fan, I must say this is the best piece I have ever read about him. The way you link his work, his life, his highs, his lows, with his heart, mind and soul is masterful. I have no words. My eyes were blurry with tears towards the end. Beautiful work. Thank you for this, especially because you somehow managed to bring him (and all his magic) back for a couple of minutes... or perhaps more importantly, because you showed us quite clearly that his outstanding legacy lives on, that in defiance of the rules of space and time there is a way we can tap into his spirit and realise that he never truly left.
Oh wow - thanks so much, I'm so glad you enjoyed the piece. I really tried to pour my love for Donny Hathaway and his music onto the essay.
I also wanted to say that I'm really enjoying your Substack - count me a fan!
And you did it beautifully. Your essay shows not only how much you know about him and his work, but also the depth of your connection with his music and his legacy.
And thank you so much! I’m honoured and grateful. Really glad you are enjoying my Substack!
Thank you - appreciate all the very kind words!
"Donny Hathaway Live" is one of my most treasured/loved LP's and I had the privilege of being at Fenway Park, July 28, 1973 to see/hear him and Charles Mingus, Freddie Hubbard, Stevie Wonder, BB King and Rahsaan Roland Kirk. Truly an incredible day of music.
I'll say! Amazing bill!
I am a fan of this musical genius whose music will live on FOREVER!
Every song he wrote and sang with lots of heart and soul, and you can hear it in his music that can be heard through and through.
He is missed, but his voice and music will be with us as long as we are still here. RIP Donny H.
Beautiful piece of writing. I loved reading this.
Many thanks!
That's one awesome talent!
Hathaway was a genius.
Can't believe I've never heard Donny Hathaway before. This is extraordinary stuff! Thank you, Robert!
You're welcome, and in for a treat!