A Farewell to Brad

Most of you know by now that Brad Delp, the former lead singer of the bands, Boston and Beatlejuice, passed away last Friday. I was away at the 2007 Drosophila Conference when I received the unfortunate news from my sister and Krissy. Now that I have had a chance to digest and come to terms with the situation, I feel that I should write something of a eulogy.

When Chuck and I were younger, we listened to Boston’s self titled first album over and over and over again (likely to our parents’ chagrin). In fact, this was the second classic rock tape that I ever purchased. We would marvel at how high the vocal harmonies were and how crisp the vocals were in general. Of course, our attempts to match the pitches were numerous. Never in a million years would I have guessed that I would have the fortunate opportunity to meet the guy, let alone become friends with him.

Not long after we moved to the Boston area, Krissy and I were looking for something to do and ended up going to see this Beatles cover band at Johnny D’s. I had read that Brad was the singer and expected him to just sweep in, play the show, and leave as soon as it was over, taking respite in the band waiting room during the break. Initially, I was surprised to see him mingling with the fans. However, once I started talking with him, I understood what a genuine, kind human being he was.

In time, Krissy and I came to be on a first name basis with Brad, exchanging handshakes and kind words when we met. A sense of warmth exuded from his very soul. This, you could tell just by watching him perform. He always made time to say hi and chat for a bit. One would never guess that this man was a rock star if you came across him in the supermarket or at the mall.

I never told Brad how great of an influence he had on us. I never told Brad that his influence helped me to construct and perform the high vocal harmonies on Guardian Angel. Perhaps he knows now. I suppose these feelings of regret happen all too often when a friend passes. The world is a sadder place without him. Brad Delp truly was a great person. Rest in peace, my friend.