I wanted to mention the passing of composer Earle Hagen on May 26, 2008. While he was primarily known for his sultry "Harlem Nocturne" and scores for series like "I Spy" and his whistling Andy Griffith Show tune, many don't know that he was one of the first collectors of what's now called world music. His vast collection (obtained on his travels) and knowledge of ethnic music of all kinds colored much of what he wrote.

He was a wonderfully supportive man, and I was especially grateful for his encouragement in the project to remaster all the albums of Bud & Travis, presently for sale as a benefit to Travis Edmonson on his website at

www.travisedmonson.com

Earle Hagen will be missed by all who knew him, but his adept way of capturing Americana in his music will keep his memory ever alive.