By Adam Waldman
Rock and roll history is rife with stories about rock stars that passed way before their time. The only silver lining is that they leave behind a legacy that lives on long after their passing.
If you’re a heavy metal fan from Generation X, you will never forget the tragic loss of legendary guitarist Randy Rhoads. After beginning his career with Quiet Riot, he took the rock world by storm as the guitarist on Ozzy Osbourne’s classic solo albums (Blizzard Of Ozz and Diary Of A Madman). “Thunderbird” (at least in part) is a tribute to Randy Rhoads and the legacy that he left behind.
Fast forward to today, and the rock and roll funeral that took place to say goodbye to BJ Taylor (a member of Generation X). He wasn’t a rock star in the traditional sense, but made a huge impact with the work that he did behind the scenes with his company, Blitzcreek. Like Rhoads, he leaves the world much too soon. And though he leaves with a legacy in the rock world, his greatest legacy is the difference that he made as a friend, husband, and most importantly, as a dad to three beautiful daughters.
Hard Rock Daddy only acknowledges Throwback Thursday every once in a while. Today seemed like the perfect time to reflect back on a song that has always had the feeling of a rock and roll sendoff to a friend. BJ and I had only met through social media in recent months, but he and his wife, Jennifer, made an impact on me with their story.
We are planning a tribute to celebrate BJ’s birthday on 11/21/15. Logistics may delay the tribute, but it is going to happen as soon as possible. Until then…”fly on ‘Thunderbird’ fly…spread your wings to the sky.” RIP BJ.
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