Back in June of 1997 I purchased my first fender
strat and played my last
"acoustic" gig at the Orange Bear. As I left that night
I saw a flyer next
door begging the question, "Are you a musician trapped in
a business suit?"
Make a long story short I found myself in the Penthouse and through
the Jam,
through Bill I became part of my first hard rock band "STRAIN".
Bill I never thanked you for that and well,
though we passed some head butts
since that time, I always managed to find great music and great
people
because of the Jam. Beyond your sometimes hard exterior lay a
soft
passionate underbelly for the music you so loved and a face I
never fully
knew but always grew because of.
Thank you Bill and wherever you are, there is a Jam there with you
Jose
Many kudos to Bill Bennett for providing an environment for folks
who aspire
to develop a closer relationship with music. He was always enthusiastic
and
generous with me, both artistically and in other ways. I am grateful
to Bill
for my time at OWSJ, and will truly miss him. I sincerely wish
for comfort
to his family, friends and all whose lives he touched at this
incomprehensible time.
Jeff Ganz
Bill,
You were an eternal optimist, an iconoclast, and a true “Plan C” musician. A NY original and an ambassador of passion for music. You’ve touched so many people in such a profound way that words just seem so small and meaningless in comparison. Anyone who’s ever attended an OWSJ function knows how special you are to our community. I always asked you to start wearing earplugs and your response was ”I get to enjoy so few things, at least let me enjoy the music”. Well friend, enjoy the music. My wish is that you will forever enjoy the music.
Glenn Fleischman
After watching the VH-1 special on Warren Zevon, I turned to my
wife and said, "What a great gift it would be to know when
your time on this earth is coming to an end." When she asked
me why I thought this, I explained that that way you could do
all the things you've always wanted to do and tell all the people
in your life the things you've always wanted to tell them. She
looked at me and asked, "Why do you need to know your time
is coming to an end to do that?" Bill Bennett was one of
the lucky ones - doing what he wanted to do and always saying
what was on his mind. May his life be an example to us all. I
will truly miss him and never forget him or my time at the OWSJ.
Rest in peace, my friend. SW.
George
This is such an incredible loss to us all. My condolences to Bill's
family.
Farewell, Bill, I will miss you. Thanks for letting me play.
With love and deepest respect,
Mike Berman
May we be measured in the end by the love of our friends.
And may we be forgiven for the volume of our music.
Bill Bennett was a truly wealthy, and forgiven, man.
John Chapin
I am one of the many people whose life was changed by Bill Bennett.
I had
always wanted to sing rock and roll. He was the bass player in
my first band
at the Jam about six years ago, and we had a lot of good times
playing
together, on-stage and off. After he bought the business, he spent
a lot of
his time and energy making sure that I was always singing with
various
bands, often participating in those bands himself, and that made
me very
happy.
I live close to the Jam, and even after I let
my first membership run out, I
would see Bill out and about in the neighborhood. About six months
ago, I
rejoined. By coincidence, at the same time, I started to see him
about once
or twice a week at Starbucks on Chambers and West Broadway in
the mornings.
He used to say "This is my big excursion into the outside
world." (We all
know how rare it was for Bill to actually leave the Jam, unless
it was a
performance night.) After a while, I could see that Bill was really
not a
morning person, and I would approach him more gingerly as time
went on,
perhaps just nodding in his direction from my place in the cue.
The last
time I saw Bill, he was in Starbucks, shading his eyes with a
newspaper.
Perhaps he had seen me, and he was too sleepy for our usual silent
"hello."
I understood.
I will miss you, Bill.
Anne Secor
Dear Bill,
Thank you for giving me a chance(s) to pursue
my passion even after I pissed
you off so many times. I enjoyed your coming up and playing harp
on stage
with me and really appreciated your saying the type of music I
played was
your favorite. And all those New Year Eves when you made yourself
available
so Jammers would have a place to hang.
You will be sorely missed and your contribution
to all of us was never
appreciated as much as it is now that you are gone.
I hope your next journey is as productive as you last one.
Thank you Bill for all you added to my life
and the great people I met thru
your OWSJ.
Dan Berliner
It was with great sadness that I learned of Bill's passing. While
I had not seen Bill since he left FPG, the photo agency that both
Bill and I worked at for many years, I had been kept up-to-date
about his activities.
I know that Bill was truly happy with the direction of his life
and what he was accomplishing. My heart goes out to his family
and friends at this time.
Gary Elsner
Like hundreds or perhaps thousands of others, I have Bill to thank
for getting me into music when I was pathetic, getting me into
bands, and completely altering my life by helping me experience
music. We usually regret not thanking people who changed our lives,
but this was such a powerful thing he had done that I was compelled
to thank Bill very directly more than once for it.
Aside from what he did for us all though, which is just incalculable, Bill also had some personality characteristics that I want to celebrate. His insights into people and stories about them always showed incredible perceptiveness and intelligence, and they were always expressed with a New York-biting-edge to them. Although his dry delivery rarely begged for a laugh track, I often caught myself chuckling quietly about what he had said, and upon reflection I celebrate that he was a subtly, but extremely, funny man. I never fully grasped that when he was living.
Thanks Bill not only for what you did for us, but also for being who you were.
Jim Scibetta
I am deeply saddened
by the news of Bill's passing. He gave me the confidence to pursue
my musical dream. He was always supportive and very understanding.
He is the link to many relationships that have blossomed as a
result of The Jam. I will always remember him. May us never forget
all that he has done for the music community.
-Sharon Wolfe
i have just been able to grieve enough to seperate
myself from the situation...last night..i went to the
jam and stayed on the roof and cried out for him.
he was the only one who was close to me. i guess i was
in so much pain and confusion to really communicate
how much love i felt for him.
bill, was a deeply special human being and a purist.
he was not a person of many words, he was more a
creature of instinct.
i don't think i can adequately find the words on
something as silly as a bulletin board..
rory
=====
"Everyone has talent. What is rare is the courage to follow
the talent to the dark place where it leads."-Erica Jong
Bill,
Your facial expression gave it away whenever
we played it. There's a line in
"Ruby Tuesday" that I know meant alot to you:
"Catch your dreams, before they slip away."
Congratulations on catching your dream and
experiencing it until the day you
passed on. Thank you for helping me and everyone else here get
closer to their
dream.
I wish you as much success in the next stage of your journey.
Dave Stancavish
The Rolling Bones
I met Bill shortly after he took over the Jam. He gave me a job
and made it possible for me to play music again. His home was
for a time my home. It is the place where I met my wife Illiana.
He and the OWSJ have enriched my life in way I could never put
into words. I've known Bill as an employer, teacher, roomate and
mentor. But most of all I know him best and will remember him
always as a great man and a great friend.
Bruce Hubbard
Bill was a wonderful friend. It's hard to accept.
-Greg
For over a year now, I have not been to Murray Street, but for
the
seven-year period between 1995 to 2002, the Off Wall Street Jam
played a
central role in my life. When I heard of Bill's passing, it was
a real
body blow. Unfortunately, it usually happens that you don't realize
a
person's impact until that person is gone. I had never thought
of Bill's
influence until now. Remember the end of "It's A Wonderful
Life" when
Jimmy Stewart gets to see what the world would have been if he
had not
lived? In the past few days, I have looked at my life and wondered:
What
would I have missed, if Bill had never spent fifty years here?
For one
thing, some of the best memories of my life. I had been a classically
trained pianist who dreamed of playing keyboard in a band, but
hadn't a
clue how to do it. Through Bill, I was able to not only play in
bands but
also in shows and in venues which were beyond anything I could
have
imagined. But, most importantly, when I look at the closest relationships
in my life, I would estimate that at least half of my New York
City friends
are people whom I had met through the Off Wall Street Jam; most
notably, my
dearest companion Tom.
And I am just one life out of hundreds who
passed through. When I take
the panoramic view, I wonder, how many lifelong friendships were
formed?
How many people had the chance to live out a dream? How many marriages
resulted and then how many babies were born? When you start to
contemplate how one life can change so many, it makes you assess
your
own priorities. Bill, you were not always a walk in the park,
but you
created a lot of love and your life made a difference.
You'll be greatly missed but, knowing your
indefatigable energy, I
believe that you are already at work on your next show. Warren
and
Johnny and June are available and waiting for an impresario to
pull it
all together. Imagine the possibilities. There's sure to be a
spot for
a bass player. Rock on.
Deborah Gray
Bill was my client second, my friend first. Upon acquiring the
Jam, Bill came to me in despair over the bad tax advice he was
getting. I saw a really cool guy with a vision that I understood
and I gave him my support for his new venture. I got him out of
his tax problem and made a really good friend whose company I
enjoyed every time we interacted. Bill was unwavering in the joy
he got form the Jam. Coming from the corporate world, the Jam
was a radical change for Bill that he embraced and thrived on.
Bill made it work because of his energy, love of music and belief
in the idea of the Jam. I will miss Bill mostly as one of those
rare individuals that makes one feel good just to be in their
presence. Bill was a winner all the way.
Martin J. Lieberman, CPA
Partner & Director of Business Valuations
I worked with Bill at a photo agency (FPG) many years ago. I liked
to tease him, at his expense, because he was such a curmudgeon
and a know-it-all. But he had a very good heart and was one of
the kindest people I've ever met. This is indeed very sad news.
Nancy Glowinski
It is a sad day
for music in NY, Bill was a friend who helped alot of people,
he will be missed.
- Theresa Dante
In the fall of 1995, I decided to leave
my home in Staten Island and move
to NYC. I moved to 6 Murray St., and on my way to work each day
with my
daschund Melville I passed a sign that read, "Are you a musician
trapped in
a day job?" After passing the sign for two months, I grabbed
a flyer and partially filled it out. All I wrote was my name,
phone number, address and the words, "The Grateful Dead 112
shows." I thought to myself, "I am not a good enough
guitar player to be accepted into this club." A week later,
a man named Bill Bennett called my
office and asked me if I'd like to play guitar with him. Bill
knew I lived
up the block and asked me if I lived in the loft with the purple
neon
guitar in the window. Yes, I told him, that was me. I was nervous
all day
because I thought I was trying out for the Off Wall Street Jam.
I sat with
Bill for two hours and played every Dead song I could think of.
He told me
I was fine and could be a jam member. I was so excited to be a
member that
I paid my dues and attended the Blues Jam each Friday. The phone
would
ring twice a week, and suddenly I would be playing music with
some pretty
woman in the studio. I began to realize what his calls meant and
"Goody,
this is Bill. Come over right now!" were our code words.
I played guitar
and played some more and the next thing I knew I was playing at
Max's
Kansas City, the China Club, Le Bar Bat, the Red Lion, the Village
Vanguard
and more. After our constant late night code words went on for
years we
began going out weekly to eat at midnight in Chinatown--salt and
pepper
shrimp, beef chow fun. Chinese broccoli. It was the same meal
sitting in
our stomachs at 1 am over and over. Bill would always complain
about jam
members not appreciating what he would do for them, telling me
he was
kicking out this guy or that girl. Guess what, Bill--you were
wrong. You
would be shocked to find out that the members of the jam love
what you did
for them. As a matter of fact, they loved YOU. You came to Thanksgiving
dinners at my house, I did your dental work, we played in three
bands
together. You told me I had all sorts of musical diseases: dental
dementia, minor chordaphobia, excessive riffamania, pentatonic
scale-amania. I would scream at you because I just wanted to know
the next
chord to a Tom Petty song. "Oh," you would say, "You
must have chromatica
flatachordatosis." I had more musical diseases than I could
mention.
Eventually Bill would say, "It's an E minor flatted ninth."
Thank you,
Bill. I am going to miss our late night little talks and your
special
philosophy of life: music, woman and the jam. I'll miss doing
your dental
work and your insistance that you didn't need anesthesia. I'll
miss your
direct and indirect blunt honesty. I'll miss all my musical diseases.
I'll miss your voice telling me to come over now. I'll miss playing
with
you. You put your heart and soul in the jam and because of you
I've met
some wonderful friends, my fiancée, my late-night hang-out
boys. I learned
how to play guitar in a group and I gave you my purple neon guitar.
Do you
know why?? Because I loved the jam and the joyous moments it gave
me. I
was with you when your broken body went to heaven. I promised
you I would
learn that Tom Petty riff you wanted me to play. I hung a OWSJ
guitar pick
by your bedside. The jam in heaven needed you, for whatever reason,
I
don't know why. Maybe now you're running the off-off wall street
jam with
famous musicians Stevie Ray, Jerry Garcia and Duane Allman, but
I know you
would rather be here with us. If you're looking down upon us wondering
what all the fuss is about, it's about you, Bill, and what you
did while
you were here. You gave many people the opportunity to play music,
be rock
stars, make friends and all of us at the jam love you for that.
I hope you
find a good Chinese restaurant up there so when I see you again
we can
order the same meal we always did. I'LL MISS YOU, MY FRIEND, AND
LOVE YOU.
DON'T FORGET TO FLOSS AROUND THE GOLD CROWN I PUT IN THIS SUMMER.
You won't believe how much you are missed by so many people. Call
me sometime and say,
"GOODY, THIS IS BILL. COME OVER NOW!" Love, Goody (a.k.a.
Richard
Goodman, your friend, band mate, dentist and late-night partner
in crime)
Fare you well my honey
Fare you well my only true one
All the birds that were singing
Have flown except you alone
Goin to leave this Broke-down Palace
On my hands and my knees I will roll roll roll
Make myself a bed by the waterside
In my time - in my time - I will roll roll roll
In a bed, in a bed
by the waterside I will lay my head
Listen to the river sing sweet songs
to rock my soul
River gonna take me
Sing me sweet and sleepy
Sing me sweet and sleepy
all the way back back home
It's a far gone lullaby
sung many years ago
Mama, Mama, many worlds I've come
since I first left home
Goin home, goin home
by the waterside I will rest my bones
Listen to the river sing sweet songs
to rock my soul
Goin to plant a weeping willow
On the banks green edge it will grow grow grow
Sing a lullaby beside the water
Lovers come and go - the river roll roll roll
Fare you well, fare you well
I love you more than words can tell
Listen to the river sing sweet songs
to rock my soul
I met Bill 14 years ago at FPG. I couldn't have succeeded in this
business without him. He helped me grow & learn. He was a
good friend & teacher. He was a truly talented & caring
person. I haven't spoken to him in a little while but I have thought
about from time to time. He touched my life & I'm sure many
others. He will truly be missed. Bill, may your spirit live on
always.
Marci Gershel
It is so hard to believe that such a charismatic, talented and
young
spirited man could be gone. I want to thank bill for encouraging
me to live
out the fantasy of being a singer in a rock and roll band. Few
things have
made me feel as alive as singing with the Y Nots. That gift he
gave to me
and obviously so many others, the gift of believing in yourself
and the
music, of being transcended by being a part of the music, that
is an
extraordinary gift. I hope he knew how much he was appreciated
and
respected. Thankyou, Bill, from the bottom of my heart....
Gail
In my last conversation with Bill, he told me with some apprehension
about his upcoming 50th birthday. Having just turned 50 myself,
I reassured him that he would slide through this transition with
joy. I look forward to celebrating Bill's life on his 50th birthday
and every day I sing and play music. In addition to his dedication
to the Jam, I saw that Bill had a keen intellect and a kickass
sense of humor, as evidenced by the weekly Dr. Sharpely letter.
I truly hope that he was fulfilled in his life. My heartfelt sympathies
are with Bill's family and friends. Ellen.
As I was nervously preparing in the moments before the debut of
Abbey Road Kill, my first gig in almost twenty years, Bill Bennett,
my bass player and friend, came over to me and whispered the words
of encouragement I so sorely needed to hear. "Don't trip
over the wires", he said.
Bill, I will miss your ability to cut to the heart of things,
especially as it relates to playing music. As with so many of
us, you rekindled in me something long since dormant - the joy
of playing live music, and the desire to share that joy with band
mates, friends and anybody else who happens to be in the audience.
You always said "I live to gig, and I gig to live".
In doing so, you touched the lives of many, many people who will
never be able to tell you what a wonderful gift you gave us all.
The last words I ever sang onstage with Bill could not be more
perfect. "And in the end...the Love you take, is equal to
the Love you make."
Thank you, Bill. And wherever your journey takes you, be careful
to step over the wires.
Brian August
I was brought into OWSJ by former member Howard Finkel and Empro
Express about 4 years ago having just returned to New York from
Boston after a 9 year residence there.
I didn't know any musicians in NYC and had little to no musical
outlet at the time. Bill was always an encouraging presence and
and endless source of dry wit.
After my tenure with Empro, Bill coerced me into The Riverboys
and Bandwidth during which time he became an invaluable friend.
I remember going to rehearsals at the Jam and coming in at night
seeing Bill fighting with the computer, going through the well
choreographed steps of letting a member in through the front door
(look at screen, push button to open door, get up push button
to send elevator down). Many nights he seemed exhausted having
been there most of the day and night but it was clear there was
no place he'd rather be.
On my first "away" gig with the Riverboys the memory
of him that stands out most in my mind was us waking up in the
band cabin at Club Getaway (all seven of us!) and Bill literally
refusing to speak until he'd had a cup of coffee.
The last time I saw him was a few months ago when my drummer couldn't
make it to a private gig down the street from the jam and we placed
an emergency call to Bill asking if there were any drummers in
the house. Bill loaded a drum kit and Tyrone in the van and brought
the lot down to us.
I wish I'd had more such moments with him in retrospect but the
few I have, I cherish.
Safe journey friend and I hope wherever you are, they ain't playing
Sympathy for the Devil.
Love, Anastasia Rene
What can I say? Shock. Sadness. A sick, queasy feeling in my stomach.
I’ve been like this for three days and only now can I put
words to what I’ve been feeling.
I came to the Jam in late ‘95 after my
divorce and move to NYC. It was cold and lonely. I hadn’t
touched my drums in something like 20 years. Something caught
my eye one day...an ad, a story, who knows...about the Off Wall
Street Jam. It took me a couple of months to get up the courage
to walk through the door. Bill greeted me and took me into the
warm waters of playing music again.
That’s the short story.
The longer story is being told by everyone who’s posting to this site, by everyone who’s called or emailed or spoken on the street to one another. Often we don’t realize how many lives we touch. When we see and read and hear the outpouring of grief it should remind us all about how many lives Bill Bennett touched. How many creative collaborations resulted from his almost Newtonian way of throwing people together in a room with a bunch of instruments to see what happens. More often than not, wonderful things happened.
But Bill didn’t just make music happen for so many people...certainly that’s the stated reason for being at the Jam...he did much more. Whether he realized it or not he created a community. It is a community as vibrant, as alive as any I’ve ever seen. I am privileged and humbled to be part of that community. I have met people who will be lifetime friends and, I hope, collaborators...people who I think of like family. Bill was (and will always be) this community’s lifeblood....just look at all the bands he was in, pollinating them like bees in the springtime. Surely there’s a little Bennett in each of us?
So to Bill I say farewell. I have so much to thank you for that I can’t even begin to write it all here. And to everyone else at the Jam I have this wish - - keep a little bit of Bennett inside you. When the amp is turned up think about Bill popping his head in the rehearsal room to ask you to turn it down. Think about him behind that old desk, sometimes smiling, sometimes grumpy. Remember how he would file through to find your session card. Remember his posting after 9/11. Keep a little piece of the guy there with you when you play. Remember him and smile. I’m sure he’ll be smiling back.
Marc Steve
Bill helped us to become better at what means so much to us.
He challenged us to improve individually and as bands.
I have so many great memories and friends as
a result of Bill's efforts !!
Thanks Bill. We will miss you.
Tom
The words have been so hard to find.
Bill - Thank you for giving us all a home where
we could express ourselves.
Thank you for helping us on our musical journeys. Thank you for
giving me a
family when I felt as though I didn't have one. Thank you for
giving us the
chance to be rock stars. You've touched so many lives and helped
so many
people fulfill their dreams...including me...and for that, I will
be forever
grateful
I came upon a child of God
He was walking along the road
And I asked him "Tell me where are you going?
This he told me
"I'm going down to Yasgur's farm
Gonna join in a rock and roll band
Got to get back to the land
And get my soul free
We are stardust, weare golden
And we've got to get ourselves back to the garden
Love and music, Heidi ho
This is really a tough time for a lot of people. I found this
photo of
Bill playing
with the Bones at the 9/11 benefit at Le Bar Bat and
thought that it really captures Bill's vitality.
Allan
Everyone has reported, quite accurately, on Bill's devotion to
bringing music into his client's lives. It's all true, every word
of it. And we all thank Bill for that commitment.
But I must thank Bill for something else. Here is a guy who, presumably,
has no children and yet is actually interested in the kids that
showed up at the jam. He would put in extra time playing with
teenagers and even pre-teens. Some were dragged by their parents
attending open jams. Some of the kids just responded to the placard
on the street. Word spread and the local high school students
partook.
He never said to the kids, "don't touch that." In fact
he encouraged them to touch it. To try any instrument they were
inclined to.
My own kids found that Bill had a soft touch. All they had to
do was bring him an order of Burger King fries and they could
play for free.
When I told my kids at dinner about Bill's passing my youngest
said. "that's sad, I liked him, let's have a moment of silence."
And we did. But I told both the kids later that Bill would want
them to make a joyful noise, make it soon and make it loud.
Bill, we will all miss you.
Dwight Yellen
Bill and I were not friends. Actually, I don't think he liked
me. I would come to the jams to hear my friend Goody play, and
Bill would always charge me the $10- even though I was a "friend
of the band". He would give me a steely glance, and occasionally
a begrudging nod of recognition, but that was it.
However, having been to the original Woodstock, I know a true rock and roll brother when I saw one. His vision was pure and simple: Create a forum so people could share their music. You and I get up in the morning and go to work from 9:00 to 5:00 to make money to pay our bills and create an enjoyable life for ourselves. Bill clearly would get up and create ways for people to share and enjoy their music.
I am not a musician. But I am a music lover. The jam was not only about people playing music, but also sharing their music for others like me to enjoy. In this, regardless of likes and dislikes, we are all brothers. I made many friends coming to hear the music, and I'm sure Bill appreciated me being there. The world is a more enjoyable place with people like Bill around. Dude, you are sorely missed!
Ron Caspari
My deepest condolences to Bill's family & friends at this
time of grieving.
Dear Bill,
I can't believe you're gone. On the other hand, I bet you're already
busy whipping that Heavenly Jam into shape to give you a proper
send-off. First song, "My Way" belted out by 'Ole blue
eyes' himself to celebrate your life. You, who figured out how
to be the lead rock star in your own Spinal Tap Reality Show without
all the trappings of that pesky fame, yet all the fun. And, in
that pursuit, served countless humans on their quest to the Infinite
through the making of music.
Next, you're telling Hendrix to "turn down"!!! &
electrify "Hey Hey My My" since you managed to burn
outa here rather than fade away. You exited stage left very shortly
before there was any reference to leathery old rocker, botox,
comb overs, hair plugs, & the like. I can see you razzing
Jim Morrisson, asking him if that's a microphone in his pants
or is he just happy to see you. Then you tell Graham Parsons,
"Can you go cheer up Lizard King in studio 3?" &
you get them in the same room together yukkin' it up & doing
duets of "To All The Girls I've Ever Loved Before" &
"Mamas Don't Let Your Babies Grow Up To Be Rock Stars."
Need I elaborate?
Movin' on over to the next room, maybe you shoulda knocked. Janis
Joplin & Stevie Ray Vaughan are at it & in your best Dr.
Sharpley advice-voice you say, "You know, you two could work
it out so you both get to solo." This is just the right thing
at the right time & they rip into a sparkling version of "Piece
of My Heart." You will always be remembered & cherished
in so many hearts....
Seque, "Knock Knock Knockin' On Heaven's Door" strains
are heard in the next room, it's Johnny Cash. You nod in silent
understanding & pick up bass. Both of you are wearing black.
(Confidentially, to Dr. Sharpley, thank you for the goodly amount
of "Love Potion #9" you've dispensed through the years.
I (& my vocal chords) am very grateful for the repetitive
"turn down guitar" advice.)
I see you getting to the last room, the white room, & John
Lennon's in there, alone, playing "Your Blues." This
is the first time I have ever seen you truly stumped, since there's
nothing for you to say; no advice or criticism or collaborative
witticism. Sorta like how we're all sittin' here, stumped. Bill,
apparently, they needed you to break on through to the other side
to run the Jam over there more than we need you here. Hard as
that is to believe.
I'll miss you, & never forget you. May Eternal Peace &
Love caress your soul.
(All above-mentioned join together with Elvis, Duane Allman, Miles
Davis, Warren Zevon for gorgeous rendition of "Amazing Grace"
going into slammin' finale of "When the Saints Come Marching
In." ......Bill is now in that number.)
Love Always,
Sue Scarlett Montgomery
I AM STIIL REELING FROM THE SHOCK OF BILLY
'S DEATH! I KNEW HIM IN COLLEGE,OVER 20 YEARS AGO. HE WAS MY BOYFRIEND
AND THEN LATER MY FRIEND, AFTER GRADUATION & BOTH OF US INDIVIDUALLY
ON OUR OWN, MOVING TO THE CITY. WE STAYED FRIENDS, HE MARRIED
MARGOT, SHE & I BECAME FRIENDS & I HADN'T SEEN HIM IN
SEVERAL YEARS . MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY GOES OUT TO HIS SURVIVING
MOTHER & SISTER & NOT LEAST OF ALL, TO YOU MARGOT. LOVE
TO YOU BILLY
Julie Marcus
I didn't know Bill well at all. I met him maybe once or twice,
but what I remember about him is his vivaciousness and how dedicated
he was to the Jam and the Jammers.
For this reason, I thought the following quote was very appropriate.
What we have done for ourselves alone dies
with us; what we have done for others and the world remains and
is immortal.
— Albert Pike
Heather G.
I am greatly saddened by the loss of our friend Bill. Bill and
the Jam have changed my life in so many profound ways. I am truly
grateful to Bill for the opportunity to play music, express myself
and get to know so many good people. I am proud of Bill's efforts
on behalf of the Jam to bring music to high school kids and others
in need. May the forces of goodness bring peace to Bill and all
of us. Elliot.
For Bill-
Cher ami, vous verrez Paris avec moi de toute façon, parce
que vous
voyagerez toujours avec moi à mon coeur.
Beth
Bill and I had our differences of opinion
in the time I knew him, but the one thing I'll never forget is
his unwavering dedication to the Jam and to music, in general.
I probably wouldn't be in a band right now if not for the OWSJ,
which means I owe the opportunity to do something I love to Bill;
a debt I could never hope to repay. I only hope that he is resting
peacefully knowing that the community he built and carried on
his shoulders for so many years is stronger than ever.
Condolences to his family, and to everyone feeling this great
loss.
Adam Swiderski
My thoughts and prayers are with Bill and his family wishing that
his passage over is a peaceful one. My heart goes out to the Bennett
family and though I only knew Bill for a short time (1 yr. or
so) I share in their grief. Bill helped me to change my life and
gear it toward a life devoted to music. He got me singing again
after many years of suppressing my talents. In the year that I
jammed with Bill I blossomed from a shy wallflower. I owe that
transition to Bill's constant nudging and his literally throwing
me in the middle of many a stage show. I think having jams at
both Red Lion and Orange Bear are great ideas, and I will be there
singing my heart out for Bill. Again, my prayers go out to Bill
and the Bennett's.
Bill, I never got a chance to say this...but thank you for everything. I will truly miss you.
Love,
Karen Jean
Hey Bill,
Thank you for everything you have done. While
we all know how hard you worked, you always made it seem effortless
in the way you helped us all feel like rock stars. We could not
have done it without you. You were so supportive of us and created
the most comfortable environment where we could just be ourselves
and show our true colors without fear of judgment. You were the
ultimate matchmaker, one of music, friendships and even relationships.
You have given me some of the best memories of my lifetime, as
well as the best friendships. I could not have had them without
you. I feel so lucky to have personally known someone who has
had such an instrumental impact (pun intended, Bill) on so many
lives. I thank you, I love you, and I will miss you very very
much. Stacie Bach
This is such a loss..... First of all Bill, thank you for encouraging
me to rejoin the OWSJ back in 2000 after an eight year hiatus
- it felt so
to come back "home" to this special fraternity and create
music once again.
Thank you for the great showcases, and thank you for your wonderful
humanity and guidance. It was a pleasure to know you in this life.
May God eternally bless you and your family
- Amen.
Maurice " Mo" Kelly
I always respected and admired Bill. He lived his life for music
the way I always wanted to do. He always gave us in Ragtag a push
to play out and that really helped us push a little harder. After
9/11 I wasn't sure if I wanted to continue jamming but Bill sent
out an email about Volumania and he listed Ragtag as one of the
bands that he wanted to play. I was very happy that he included
us in that email and the gig was one of the best that we ever
played. He's at peace & up there jammin' with Lennon, Hendrix
and the rest of the greats. He was a true musician and I will
always remember him.
Rob Emery
Ragtag
I have known Bill for over 12 years now. In fact, I was at Bill's
very first jam session at OWSJ. This was way back in 1991 when
he just joined as a member. Like the rest of us, he had put off
playing music while focusing on a 'normal' career. So the enthusiasm
from Bill at that first session was palpable. The first song we
played was 'Sunshine of Your Love'. When we finished, we all had
grins on our faces because we knew we had something there, the
air was electric. Three weeks later, we were on stage at a Jam
Night at the old Lonestar Roadhouse. From that point on, Bill
never looked back and he became probably one of the most active
jammers in those days. We played together in a couple more projects
(including the infamous Red Zepprin) since that night at the Lonestar
but I eventually left the Jam. On the other hand, that initial
musical ethusiasm of Bill's never waned. As we all know, he eventually
became the owner of OWSJ and that's probably one of the reasons
why I have rejoined. He was not the owner because He wished to
run a business, he was the owner because he truly loved to play
music. In fact, Bill was passionate about his music and he tried
to instill that same passion to all the OWSJ members. For that,
he will be sorely missed.
UB Cheung
i'm shocked and terribly saddened by bill's death. i know everyone
is.
it's impossible to sum up someone's personality, life, talent
and energy in one phrase, but when i think of bill, i think: He
Made It Happen
when i first moved to nyc five years ago and inquired about the
OWSJ, bill kept calling me on saturdays to come in for the singers'
jam. he helped me put a band together, Planet 52, and we performed
at The Jammys.
being in a band was a dream my whole life, He Made It Happen.
lots of people have this same story. i'll always remember bill
and we'll all have to carry on his devoted work and love of music,
and the people who make it, at The Jam.
thank you, bill, we love you!
liza.
Bill not only enabled me to play much more music by buying and
running the jam, he urged me back into it. He called me one day
in 1996 after about a year of not playing music and asked me to
join a band. Since then I have played continuously in numerous
rock and jazz projects (including many with Bill: Abbey Road Kill,
Squeeze Play, Tara and the Terrors, etc.) and I owe a great deal
to his inspiration. In addition to being a dedicated and talented
musician he was also a great friend, a sharp wit and a genuinely
good man. Music remains an essential part of my life, with many
thanks to Bill.
He signed his postings, “Thanks for playing.” Bill, thanks for the chance to play.
Kevin S. Murphy
Bill Bennett was someone I knew for over 12 years and who I respected.
Sometimes we did not get along but, to his credit, Bill and I
would simply agree to disagree and continue on as pros, adults
and musicians.
He was a tough man. I was there when he would berate some poor musician in his bands for missing a chord or playing off time or some nonsense. But he was driven by perfection and by music. He would say that the first reason to play music was the worship of God and he definitely saw it that way. If you agree that being closer to God is trying to be perfect, then you have an appreciation of Bill’s motivation and drive for perfection.
Bill was always honest, sometimes brutally honest, but truly honest, offering praise, criticism and critique often in one sentence. I appreciated that about him. He never held back with me. Told me how it was straight up all the time. Sometimes I did not agree with him but I knew where he stood and why. How many people can you say that about in your life?
We also had some fun times, playing some wild shows and doing some crazy things. Being kicked off the Orange Bear and Red Lion stages for being too loud (Banned Halen), rocking an outdoor gig with our Led Zeppelin tribute, Red Zepprin over 11 years ago, I even own a snare drum courtesy of Bill and OWSJ for winning a drum Jammy. I smile and think of some truly great memories.
Finally, if not for Bill, I would have not met some amazing and significant people in my life, people who I now value as brothers and sisters both personally and in music. Many who are now dear friends who I would not know if it were not for Bill and the concept of OWSJ.
I will certainly miss him.
Carlos Cabrales
My condolences to all Bill's family and friends.The loss to the
NY music world is profound.I am in shock at Bill's passing. I
thought that he was one of the ones who would live to be 110,
and still be rockin.The energy he created and fostered around
him was nothing short of miraculous. In this world, in these times,
Bill Bennett created a haven for all of us who thought we'd lost
our souls. He let us find them again. He was a hero to me, in
his own cantankerous way.He had a heart of gold under that cranky
exterior. He had a vision, a vision of nuturing the powers of
music in all of us, and he was determined to see that vision through,
no matter what. He gave me the experience of a lifetime, twice,
when he brought us to play at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
A true miracle, one that I never would have even considered possible
were it not for Bill. I don't think many of us got to say the
thank you's to Bill that we now wish we had, but I feel that he
is still with us, so I want to say, Bill, THANK YOU! You will
stay in my heart forever, Sandra
The Bill Bennett I knew and loved for 3 years was a man of extremes.
When he was good, he was good, and when he was bad he was horrid.
He was one of those characters that comes along once in a lifetime.
He was brilliant and funny and crazy and generous and unremorseful.
He lived by his own code...he did not base his life upon what
others thought was appropriate. He had a drive in him to live
and make the most of every moment. He only answered to himself
and himself was a study in contraditions. He was I believe, a
tortured soul ,who found the silver lining in his own unquiet
state of inner affairs.
I was very close to Bill and I think my adolescent confusion mirrored
his own perpetual childhood. He both childlike and jaded. He was
dark and light.
He was totally rock and roll.
This is what I know he would want
A) to have the Dr. Sharpley book published
B) to promote a show at the garden
maybe we can make this happen.
I love Bill unconditionally.
aurora felice
I came to the Jam a few years back to hang out and noodle on the
Bass,
having played guitar since, er, well
a long time ago. Anyway, Bill - also being a guitarist turned
bassist -
set me up with some lessons, rookie jam nights
and finally a band gig. I was enjoying mid-life better than
adolescence. A strange thing happened. That spark
of Bills love for music re-ignited mine and I started playing
guitar
again. And writing songs. A lot. And started
gigging around the city as a singer songwriter. When I slacked
off being
an active Jammer Bill still booked
me to open a few Red Lion shows.
Bill and I also shared the "chuck the
corporate lifestyle, do what you
love" journey in slightly differing variants.
I wrote a song called "It's Not The Money" which spoke
to that
experience. Bill heard it for the first time
when I opened one of those Red Lion shows...he put a buck in the
tip
jar. That tune will be forever dedicated
to Bill.
Thanks for the spark, Bill.
Mike
performing as: Michael McCrary, NYC
Bill:
I know I'm writing this as though you are still here with me. The truth is, you are. You will always be with me, just as you'll be with the rest of the people you have touched in life. You affected me in a lot of ways. Music was just a part of it. You know I always looked up to you, admired you, and loved you. You were one of the best friends I ever had. I just I wish I could have told you that before I lost you. But I have a feeling you knew anyway. You always seemed to know what I was thinking.
You and I go back a pretty long time. Over 10 years. And I knew from the first time we met, at that awful Rolling Stones session, that you were someone special. I remember how aggravated you were that people didn't know their parts. I know we used to joke about how you sometimes were kind of tough on band members. But I always knew it was done out of love for the music, and love for the people you were playing with. It's because you truly cared. And even though you used to tell me that you just had no patience anymore, the fact is, you were the most patient person I ever knew.
You were also an incredible musician. And I think people sometimes lost sight of that because you were doing so many other things. When you were in a band, you didn't just play your part. You also directed other band members, taught them their parts, organized the practices, set up the gigs, and at the same time ran the business. I don't know how you did it. It was more than any one person could handle. Yet you seemed to do it all with ease.
And I have to say I never knew anyone who had such self-confidence, and who was such a leader. Every time I ever went on stage with you, I was always secure, because you were on that stage with me. Man, I would have followed you anywhere. And now as I look back, I feel so honored to have shared so many moments with you. I really had no right, as a musician, to even be on the same stage as you. But you always took care of me, and always made me feel good about myself, despite my hacking up so many songs. You made all my rock and roll dreams come true, just like you did for so many people. You built the Jam into an institution that I have no doubt will exist long after we are all gone.
To say that we owe you is a understatement of epic proportions. You made music a part of so many people's lives. I think of how many people you have influenced, how many have been on stage, and fulfilled life-long goals in music, and it is clear that you have made your mark in this world. So few people ever achieve that in life. Even though it was cut short, I will always take comfort in knowing yours was a life well-lived. You did what you wanted to do. You did what you loved. And you gave something back to the world. That is all any of us could ever hope to do.
But the truth is I will miss you terribly. There's just no getting around that. And it has nothing to do with music. I never knew anyone who could make me feel so at ease. Just to be sitting in your office, shooting the breeze. I always felt safe, like I was at home. You were the most together person I ever knew. You made me feel together just for being with you. You had an amazing gift. I know I will never meet anyone like you again. I'm just glad I met you at all, and thankful for the time we had. And I'll savor every memory. I'll think of the days when you lived on West 15th St, when we first became friends. I'll think of the day I got married, when you led us all up on stage to take over for the band. I'll think of how many times I picked up the phone to talk to you about the upcoming shows, and to see what you had working. I'll think of all the bands we were in together (and there were lots of them). And you know I'll never forget the day you and Jay almost came to blows in the studio. We had a lot of laughs about that one. You never did back off from anyone, now that I think about it. I'll also think of the non-music subjects we talked about. I know we talked about women a lot. But that stuff is just between you and me. There was so much more, I can't even begin to tell. The memories are endless.
I have to say also, that I will have a very hard time playing again. I can't get you out of my mind, and I know the next time I play it will be hard not to cry. When I heard you were lost, I even thought it possible that I'd never play again. I feared I'd never experience the same type of joy. I couldn't imagine what it would be like to play without you being there. But then I thought, what would you say if I told you I was giving it up. And my answer came immediately. You'd say "C'mon Mike, get that idea out of your mind and play. It's only rock and roll," or something like that. I know that playing music is what you stood for, and if you taught me anything, it was to keep on playing no matter what. "Never stop playing" is what you always said, referring to what to do if something went wrong on stage.
Don't worry. I never will.
Mike Macchia
Bill was an amazing man. He really
cared for the community and for enriching everyone around him
through music. His organization and life was centered around creating
bands, friends and communities.
When I approached him to do a story (in the school paper) about OWSJ as an organization (the concept was so appealing), he offered to donate instruments to my former school, Stuyvesant. Bill’s generosity enabled me to start the After School Jam Club, a club that enables students in the school to get together and recreate the aura of OWSJ at Stuyvesant. The instruments he donated are still being used by students who love music. His magic is still at work: whenever a musician hears a guitar being played in the hallway somewhere, they come to listen or to jam. I’ve met many friends because of a common love for music and the availability of the instruments at school. I’m going to do everything I can to use Bill’s model to try to get musicians together wherever I go in the future. Bill was really a genius.
My sister, who met him the night I wrote the story about him, also remembers how dedicated he was, and how he coaxed her into jamming with the people in the studio on keyboard. He had such a great talent for getting people together to enjoy themselves.
I can’t forget how happy and positive Bill always was, and how dedicated he was to music. He always said “Hi” when I passed him on the street, and invited me to bring all of my friends to jam in his studios. Bill had an amazing heart. I’m really going to miss him.
Thank you, Bill.
-Alex Barash
It had been 17 years since the last time I played in a band, till
I walked into the studios of the Off Wall Street Jam. I played
at the Jam a few times then officially joined last year and formed
a band. Because of Bill Bennett, a group of regular guys with
day jobs got the opportunity to, not only play together once or
twice a week, but to play out live, twice. The thrill and enjoyment
of those evenings I will never forget. Thank you, Bill, for reminding
me of the power of music and the true pleasure that comes with
playing and singing.
I wish to pass along my sincerest of condolences to all the members of the Bennett and OWSJ families and to anyone who had the opportunity to have met Bill.
John Corrigan
Mike, Dwayne, and I first met Bill in early April. We were opening
a large
corporate offsite for our company, American Express, and found
out that Bill
could help us out with rehearsal time. After one session, we asked
him if he
could rent us the instruments. He also agreed to throw in the
bassist for
free. In what I suspect what typical Bill fashion, we asked him
to be there at
6:30 am to setup and run through a sound check. 7:15 am and no
Bill and no
instruments. 7:30 am -- a phone call and yes, he's on the way.
Sound check
happened, and 45 minutes later, we kicked off the offsite, with
Bill not
missing a beat and seeming like he had jammed with us forever
(in spite of the
fact that he had only spent about 20 minutes in practice).
I will recall his devotion to furthering the
cause of the Jam, his dedication
to the Corporate Battle of the Bands, and of course, his passion
for music.
Deepest condolences to his family from me and the team at American
Express.
John Chung
I have been a familiar face and charter member of the jam since
Feb 02.Through Bills efforts,Ive met jammed and made friends with
many a musician and because of Bill was able to put back the missing
link and void in my life.As a singer, songwriter, and player for
almost 30 years I developed a vast knowledge of SONGS in my reportoire.As
a result I often had the opportunity to run the 'Singers Circle'
on saturday afternoons and play various shows.Though Bill was
a tough man, when he saw a talent and burning desire he wouldnt
be afraid to let you know he observed and admired.Bill would refer
to me as 'Mr Music'.Though we didn't always see eye to eye on
certain things,You couldnt ignore his talents as a musician and
his yearn for perfectionism.I can't imagine OWSJ without him but
im sure he would want it to go on.This is a terrible tragedy to
happen for a still young man.Thanx Bill for making it happen for
us
Richard Mansour
I can't tell you how shocked and upset I am to hear the news regarding
the passing of Bill Bennett. I had to remove myself from the trading
floor when I read the e-mail. Bill has been a tremendous inspiration
for
me and has allowed me to fulfill my rock-n-roll fantasies. It
is because
of him that I have found the courage to perform on stage. It is
because
of him that I realized that I was good enough to play out live.
It is
because of him that I've had the opportunity to play, meet, and
socialize with various other music lovers and create another life
for me
aside the daily grind of wall street. I can't tell you how refreshing
it
is to leave my day job and to sit and play the drums with other
musicians and to have this so called "second life".
I have had the
opportunity to play with Bill in several bands; Miller Time, Squeeze
Play, Nancy Luka Band, The Porch Band, and of course Aprils Reign.
I
love the jam. I love the people I've met along the way. I can't
think of
anything better then playing music and having the opportunity
to play it
live, in a bar, in NYC. Without Bill, I'm not quite sure that
this
"fantasy" would have been lived. I'll miss you forever
Bill. You have
giving me something that I didn't think I could ever achieve.
Wishing
you peace and happiness in your new life. You have no idea how
many
lives you have touched. You have touched mine immensely. Bidding
you
Godspeed Bill, your absence will be sorely missed.
Goodbye my friend,
Bob Berger
We were all stunned to find out the news of Bill's passing. Fort
Bragg would not be what it is without Bill Bennett. Period. Our
heartfelt condolences go out to all in the OWSJ, Elaine, and Bill's
family. There is not enough cyberspace to list all of the times
that Bill made me laugh, taught me something, or pissed me off
within the same conversation. That was Bill and that was why you
had to love the guy. Suffice it to say, Bill Bennett was a character...and
now he is a legend.
Rock on, Bill! There's been all the fixings of a great rock band
in heaven. They've just been waiting for someone to come along
with the chops to put it all together.
Cameron, Rene, Newton, and Cody
Fort Bragg
Aww, bloody hell! Just when we were gettin' ready for our Halloween
World
Tour, I get this news that Nigel has got himself into a bit of
trouble. That
bloke has this hot rod, see, and he loves to show off how fast
this thing
goes, 'specially when there's a tasty bird wid' him. After our
last several
drummers perished from overdose, speedbikes and booze, we hoped
that was the
end of it. 'kin brilliant now that our lead guitarist and brother
is now
added to the list. Supposed to have smudges taken 'o us next week
for the
tour posters, we were. Bollocks. Well, Wiggy, Snowflake and me
be missin'
our old mate, and hope he rocks on wid' Marc Bolan up there on
the pearly
stage.
-Phillip McRotch, Glamasaurus Rex
On a serious note, I'm saddened to hear the
news. I, like many others I'm
sure, were hoping that this was just a bump in the road, and that
Bill was
going to recover quick and complete. Sometimes things just don't
go the way
we would like.
I think Bill had a special place in his heart
for G-Rex; it wasn't only the
music, but the chance to play out the rock star roll, a stereotypical
belligerent British glam rocker, complete with wigs, makeup, high
platform
boots and accent. Out of my several bands over the years at the
jam, this
was my only gig with Bill; while it might have been a little bumpy
at times,
I honestly believe he really enjoyed playing the role of Nigel
Brisbane. I
don't know how much enthusiasm he showed for his other bands,
but I know
that there was a special excitement in him when he got to put
that outfit
on.
Bill, we'll miss you. May you rest in peace.
Brian J. Bernstein
To Bill, a/k/a Dr. Sharpley, you were wise beyond your years,
and had a spirit far younger than your age. You knew how to live,
and I am sure you knew how to die. You lived life with a vigor
that we jammers could only marvel at and wonder how you did it.
You brought music back into my life and you made me feel like
I was 17 again, and the feeling was worth a million dollars. But
I only had to pay a few hundred bucks, probably the best deal
I will ever get anywhere. You shared your love of music with us
all, and you were such a fixture in our lives that we sometimes
took you for granted. That won't happen again. I will never forget
you. Love, Dave Kaminsky
Bill has been a very special person in my life. I've
experienced so much joy at the OWSJ because of his
efforts. I will truly miss him.
Rich Oshinsky
It is with deep sadness that I post this message. I was so sorry
to hear the news about Bill. I am a singer and former performer
of the jam. Bill has always kept in touch with me to find out
how I was progressing with my singing career and I always appreciated
that. I saw his dedication to the jam and I always admired his
hard work. I know this was his passion. I send my sincerest condolences
to Bill's family and all those who knew and loved him. You are
in my prayers. It is a terrible loss.
Sincerely,
Benita Charles
Like UB, I met Bill when the Jam first opened in '91. But I didn't
really get to know him until he became the owner. One thing about
Bill, he always strived for perfection. That's an important concept.
I always felt that Bill acted like a father with his flock. For all of you Jammers that don't have much experience playing in bands (and I guess for those that do), Bill always tried to make you better musicians. Just because you play an instrument doesn't make you a musician. Listening to your bandmates, playing off of them, having a sense of dynamics - THAT makes you a musician. That's why Bill used his "tough-love" approach - he wanted to see improvement in his Jammers.
As many of you know, for the past few years I have run the Saturday Singer's Circle for Bill. He always gave me carte blanche to run it as I saw fit. Bill did not give away that responsibility easily, but he knew that, like him, I always tried to make the experience a rewarding one, if not an educational one. I was just an extension of Bill on Saturdays (plus the fact that those 4 hours really drove him crazy!).
It's ironic that Bill never wore earplugs and his hearing suffered because of it. But all of you Singer's Circle participants know how I like to "remind" you to "turn it down". That's because Bill wanted you to learn the art of listening to each other and become better musicians. He also wanted you to protect your hearing and not suffer as he had.
Bill was kind enough to include me in his house bands at Le Bar Bat and to think of me when he needed people for gigs. I'm glad I got the chance to thank him for those opportunities. Never forgetting his roots as an agent, Bill also wanted the Jam to become a place where he could send Jammers out on paying gigs when the chance arose. That's another reason he wanted all of us to improve our musicianship.
So next time you're playing and jamming, think of Bill and the lessons he tried to impart - they are very good ones.
Finally, since I am the "Tunemeister" and everything reminds me of a song (albeit top 40 from the 70's), I think it's appropriate to end with this song for Bill. It was the Righteous Brothers last big hit - "Rock and Roll Heaven" (1974)
If you believe in forever
Then life is just a one night stand
If there's a rock and roll heaven
Well you know they have a hell of a band
And now they have a wonderful addition to the house band in heaven - our friend, Bill Bennett.
Bill, peace to you always.
Marty Bender
Dear Bennett family,
I would like to extend my deepest sympathy
to you at this time. Bill was a
special friend and fellow bandmate who will always hold a place
in my
heart. I am so sorry that he was taken so prematurely. He accomplished
a
great deal in his short time with us, and both made and created
wonderful
music and lasting friendships in his lifetime. He was unforgettable.
Bill had a powerful impact on many of us. I
pray that he is resting
peacefully at some hot music venue in Heaven, and I hope that
the
outpouring of affection from "Jammers" past and present
will comfort you in
the days ahead.
Fondly,
Stacey Mondschein
My heartfelt condolences to the family, and a very heartfelt thank
you to
Bill for putting music on top of the menu for me again. My situation
was
special in that I have always led a very active life as a musician
in
Denmark, but upon moving to New York I was genuinely afraid to
try and take
it up, given this city's mythic status. But that is precisely
where the Jam
and Bill came in. At the Jam, it is easy: come and play, and you
will meet
people. I surely did, and I hope to continue doing so!
Thanks, Bill, rock on!
Casper
My heartfelt condolences to Bill's family and friends. I was shocked
to receive the e-mail announcing his passing while I was working
late last night. The sad news has greatly affected me. I saw him
very recently, when he convinced me in typical fashion to come
and watch him play on the Elton John Tribute Band downstairs.
The entire Jam community will miss him terribly. Thanks to Bill
I got involved in actively playing music again after many years.
I am grateful to him for having provided the facility to express
myself again musically on a regular basis. Going to the Jam on
Murray Street will never be the same. May he rest in peace, and
surrounded by heavenly music.
Pieter
In the fall of 1998 .....I inadvertently found the OWSJ site on
the web, I was looking for a way to reconnect with 'city' musicians.
Being originally from the city and living up in Putnam County
I was hungry for a way to play more often. When I found the site
it seemed it was just what the doctor ordered. I called and the
fellow on the other end started to do (what seemed like) a mini-interview.
I told him I was a singer and played some harp, he asked me my
name, I told him Michael Evans. He said not the "Mike Evans
from 82nd Street?"
I was stunned, telling him yes that's me, he said "Hey Mike,
it's Billy Bennett from the Central Park, The Fountain days!!"
I was in a locally popular band called "The Sugar Blues Band" in the late sixties, we played the Cafe Wha? (the teeny bopper day band) and the Electric Circus among other church and synagogue dances. Bill was part of our tag along groupie/fan club. I was about 18 and Billy about 14 and wherever we went there went Skinny Billy. Tagging along in filthy, ragged bell bottoms that were way to, tattered, tight and long. Actually most of the sole to his shoe never touched the sidewalk, it was to busy scuffling with the inside of his tattered, ragged pant bottom.
Hank Goldsmith spoke of Bill's "Warrior
Heart"....
Absolutely....he had the spirit then, a rag tag warrior. Remarkably
determined to follow 'the music'. Bill loved the music, he loved
bands. He loved our band, we were rock stars in his book. 18 year
old omnipotent wanna be's, and sometimes Bill took the brunt of
our omnipotent bully-hood. He preserved, he followed his heart.
Many a warm Sunday afternoon at 'The Fountain' while sidestepping swarms of hippies, Frisbees, conga beats and partaking in the counter culture elixer-du jour. Our pack would sit and play for hours. I think I may have shown Bill some of his first guitar chords. "What a trip!"
I have made life-long friends through the Jam
and have remade A life-long friend. I love you Brother Bill you
are in my heart life-long.
Michael Evans [Pic of me and Billy (.jpg-53k)]
I'm a friend of Eric Bradley's from
OWSJ. I just got the news on Bill
Bennett this morning.
My most heartfelt and deepest condolences.
May you and all of his
friends and family find peace and strength together in this saddest
of
moments.
Rene Ferrer
Bill was such a sweet man- Those of
us in the neighborhood will miss him - I loved running into him
on the street and on our pier- We planned big things with our
new community center and with the kids downtown. We are very sad.
I will miss him.
Bob Townley
Executive Director
Manhattan Youth
So sorry to hear this terrible, tragic
news. I'm one of the many people who can honestly say that Bill
changed my life. I'm sorry that I never told him that. Rest in
peace.
Bruce Meyer
Bill has seen all of my bands,, from
begining to end, he set up my first gig, and he has been so great
to me, he will be missesd greatly be me. my condolences go to
his family.
Love Ray Weiss
Hey, Bill, it's Ed. I want to put a band together. You know what
I'm
talking about. A band whose members took a different road away
from
their musical roots. A band of good people who work their day
jobs but
live to get back to those roots. You know, people who play because
they
love it, not because they earn their living doing it. Not because
they
have to do it to earn a living. People who belong to the OWSJ.
People
who, but for you, would never have gotten the opportunity to get
together as a band. People who, but for you, would never have
gotten
the opportunity to get up on a stage and perform together. People
who,
but for your dedication, would never have developed so many close
friendships.
You know what I'm looking for, Bill. You dedicated
your life to knowing
what I'm looking for and helping me find it. You dedicated your
life to
living the dream that long ago died in most of us, only to come
to life
again for us because of your efforts. So Bill, I thank you from
the
bottom of my heart for putting this band together. We all thank
you.
How many people can say they truly made a difference
in so many peoples'
lives? Bill, you earned that right many times over. Goodbye, my
friend.
Ed Howe
i am laurie locicero, bill and my husband
who had passed away recently also were friends. i used to come
to the jam and sing while louis and everyone jammed. when i wrote
to bill and told him louis had passed he was so shocked. he aslo
was telling me to come down and get back into singing again for
louis would have wanted me to..
i kept telling bill next week, next week... and i kept putting
it off. now i have lost the chance to be with bill in my time
of grieveing and since have turned it over to him.
i am so saddened by this and i prayed so hard just now when i
got this email of his passing that louis would meet him on the
other side and jam on with him.
i really feel sad over this and i wish i didnt procrastanate on
coming back down... i will never get the chance to thank bill
personally for talking with me about louis and giving me strenght
to move forword and sing again.
just goes to show never put off anything you really want to do..
for you may not have another chance to do it....
life is so short, although beautiful , its hard to express how
difficult it can be. but with this shocking news im sure eveyrone
is feeling it all.
i am so sorry bill for not coming back sooner to see you and i
only pray you will jam on with louis up in heaven..
god bless you
i will miss our talks.
thanks for being so cool and touching my life in the short time
that we conversed over the computer.
keep that wit with you always and we will all meet again someday.
good by my friend.
love you always and will never forget you.
say hi to louis for me when you see him....:-(
love always
laurie locicero
Bill,
Thanks for all you've done in giving us the
OWSJ. Through the Jam, you
afforded me the chance to do something that I'd always wanted
to do...play
in a rock and roll band. You made possible the friendships and
memories
associated with those Friday night shows and Saturday afternoons
spent
trying to get it just right. And yes, in retrospect, you were
probably
right........we were a bit too loaded and loud. Your passion for
the music
and utter determination to making the Jam work will not be forgotten.
We'll all miss you.
Joe Bruno
![[after 9/11.....I had this poster made of Bill and presented it to him at a Jammy Award ceremony. He didn't like the photo so never put it up...he has a framed copy somewhere. (.jpg-250k)]](Bill%20Poster.jpg){kind=link}