RIP John Bradley
The music community mourns the loss of John Bradley, a cherished figure who founded, produced, and served as lead guitarist for Booster Patrol. Bradley passed away on March 20 at the age of 61.
To honor a musician who was not only a collaborator but a dear friend, I've composed a tribute in the musical tradition he mastered so brilliantly. The initial mix is available for listening here. Once the final production is complete, it will be featured on Unauthorized within the Booster Patrol collection.
Johnny B laid down his burden late on a Friday night
With the music of his band still ringing in the fading light
Saint Peter met him at the gate, said Son, we heard you play
Leo Fender built this gold guitar and he saved it for this day
The choir's been singing acapella ever since the world was new
They need someone who knows the sad notes, they say that man is you
He wrapped his hands around that neck, felt the weight of holy gold
Every fret a year of sorrow, every string a story told
He hit a chord that shook the heavens, the angels stopped to hear
A tone so long and lonesome that Saint Matthew shed a tear
Peter said "We don't need pretty, son, we've got harps here by the score
We want to hear that swampy sound that kept 'em coming back for more
Now every night in Heaven there's a sound they never had
A solid gold Fender wailing every note both beautiful and sad
The choir hits the chorus, the Almighty taps His feet
And Johnny B is boosting live up on that golden street
He played the broken-hearted blues from Beale Street to Monsignor
Now he's jamming up in Heaven and he couldn't ask for more.
Lay it down, Johnny B
Make that sound, Johnny B
Hit that chord
Lay it down, Johnny B
Make that sound, Johnny B
For the Lord
