Just a note: Mark's comeback CD was "Out of My Hands," not "State of Mind." I co-produced "Out of My Hands" for my label, Origin Jazz Library. I last saw Mark a few months ago at a gig he was playing in Altadena, California. It was an old-fashioned coffeehouse, sure to bring back many memories for Mark. Although only a handful of people came to see the show, Mark had a great time. His only worries were financial ones. He told me he was happy doing what he loved to do and that he was proud of his grandchildren.

Cary Ginell
Origin Jazz Library
www.originjazz.com

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Subject: RE: Obit: Mark Spoelstra RIP
From: WFDU - Ron Olesko
Date: 26 Feb 07 - 03:04 PM

He was an amazing guitarist and a great songwriter. While he was a staple on the folk scene during the early sixties, but "fame" eluded him. He eventually left the music business, embraced religion and became a minister, and he held a variety of jobs to support his family.

In 2001 he had a "comeback" CD that was brilliant - State of Mind. I had the pleasure of interviewing Mark at the time of it's release, and I will rebroadcast that interview in his memory this weekend on WFDU-FM's TRADITIONS - Sunday at 3pm ET.

My condolences to his family and friends. He was a an artist that more people should have known.

Ron
www.ronolesko.blogspot.com