Nick Ashford May 4, 1942-August 22, 2011
I was just talking with my mother about my lack of inspiration about my blog and how I hadn’t felt motivated to write about anything in particular. Then several hours later I read the news about Nick Ashford.
I, like many fans was saddened to hear of his death. I wasn’t even aware he’d been sick. I’d met Nick Ashford and Valerie Simpson several times when I used to frequent their restaurant and lounge, Sugar Bar for shows. Nick Ashford always chatted with everyone and I remember our conversation and found him to be divine, a true class act.
With his passing it makes me think of at least two things. One, we don’t have many legends anymore. How many contemporary artists will we be listening to in twenty years? And two, how many of us are experiencing the kind of love Ashford and Simpson wrote about in their songs? I’m definitely waiting for a love that’s “Solid” as a rock and makes me feel like “I’m Every Woman”.
We’ve lost one of the greats. Nick Ashford was half of a creative team that has not only crafted wonderful songs, but created moments in time and painted musical portraits of aspirational love.
Some of my favorite Ashford and Simpson songs are:
“Ain't no Mountain High Enough"
"Ain't Nothing Like the Real Thing"
“Solid”
“Street Corner”—(Not a romantic song but THE jam nonetheless!)
Cocoa Popps wishes Valerie Simpson and family peace in this time of loss. The work of these two musical geniuses lives on forever.
Nick Ashford, R.I.P.~ Rest In Power!
What are some of your favorite Ashford and Simpson songs?
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3 comments:
I agree with you here, truly is a great loss of a music legend. So many inspiring songs that have lived on and will continue to be great classics. You were very lucky to have met them in person and interacted. What an experience!
Solid! http://onestyleatatime.blogspot.com/
I'm very happy that you include "Street Corner" as one of your top A & S songs. It was the jam! He will be missed, but left a legacy that won't be forgotten.
How wonderfully stated. We have truly lost one of the GREAT musicians of modern time. I loved to watch Ashford and Simpson perform. They were electrifying!!!
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