Buzzy Linhart passed away last night. He was a part of the Greenwich Village scene in the 60's, co-wrote Bette Midler's theme song, You Gotta Have Friends, and was the hitchhiker in the notorious opening scene of The Groove Tube. He was also a truly beautiful human being.
May the Four Winds Blow You Safely Home, my friend.
Bill, tgo
Oh, dear. What a nice guy and great musician. He came to my studio around 83 to record on someone's album - meandered in with a black garbage bag full of popcorn, looking like a real Venice burnout hippie (my studio was in Venice, so lots to compare him with). I was getting ready to escort him out when the band shouted out, "BUZZY!" and escorted him into the control room. He sang, played guitar - i remember a black strat - played vibes (really really well), and did a cartoon alien voice on one of the songs.
I recognized his name but couldn't place him at first, but it was probably from album credits.
Mark, loved your story.