Chuck Brown passed away yesterday.  He was immensely important to so many people.  He has been a part of Washington DC’s musical character ever since I moved here and I can’t imagine this town without him.

    I had a few chances to work with him and even hang out with him.  I feel fortunate to have been in the room while he recorded “Mellow Saxophone” for Pete Ostle’s A La Carte Brass Band.  I have a video of him singing Stormy Monday with just him singing and me on piano.  I was lucky enough to spend some time at his house and eat a fried chicken dinner  ( maybe the best ever) and drink Courvoisier Cognac with him.  He was truly a man of the people.  A terrific musician. An original.   I am going to miss having him in our lives.