13 Comments
User's avatar
Susann Estle's avatar

"Why" is such an important question! Butch seemed to be not only a heavy drummer but a heavy thinker. He tried so hard to get everyone to "Wake the f*ck up." Thanks Alan

Larry Ogintz's avatar

Thank you for such a touching remembrance and loving tribute. All of the original ABB boys contributed so much since their first appearance and their obvious contributions through different lineups. Like all drummers, he remained a constant backdrop throughout their hallowed careers.

RIP

Mike Wicklein's avatar

Alan, thanks so much for sharing. It's been a long time since I read Butch's forward. What a wonderful, curious, always pushing boundaries human being...he was perfect as the "freight train" this band required to succeed. I so wish he was still here, walking with us...but I do believe his spirit was messing with me about a month ago...that story requires some tequila and being face to face. Keep on keeping on. My intention is to finish the doc that we started at RRR in 2019, this year. I hope you have a day for an interview.

Alan Paul's avatar

Wonderful. Yes, of course on the interview.

Mike Wicklein's avatar

Do you all have any gigs booked down Baltimore way ? Or would you like some help getting booked down here ? There is a place in Hagerstown called Hub City Vinyl that has a nice size room...and they are booking touring acts. Paul Beard who makes dobro's has his shop nearby and his bluegrass band has become the "house" monthly booking. Jerry Douglas has played there...and uses Beard Guitars.

Alan Paul's avatar

Not at this time. we've pulled back on leaving the tri state area unless we have a real anchor gig. We have no problem booking gigs, but the $ has to be right to make sense.

Gary Brantley's avatar

Great article, Alan! It must've been wonderful gleaning all that information, straight from the mouths and minds of those who were there. Thanks for all the insight!

Alan Paul's avatar

Welcome. It sure was. it was a 25 year project, though I didn’t know it for 22 years.

Paul Grabsky's avatar

It was awesome to this forward again! Theres no doubt Alan you had a treasured friendship with Butch. We miss him.

Alan Paul's avatar

Thanks Paul.

sandracwyatt's avatar

❤️🍑🍄 enjoyed your article so much Alan thanks! And of course absolutely adored reading Butchie’s forward-miss him so much!!! Thx again🍄🍑🥁

Pat Reidy's avatar

I wish I could've met him

Tom C's avatar

Muscle Shoals is, I believe, where Duane Allman played on Laura Nyro's Christmas and the Beads of Sweat LP. One of my favorites. Worth a listen.