Simply one of the best writers - ever! I saw him on what I feel, was his only UK tour at Band On The Wall in Manchester. It was December 1986. He opened wih an a capella Rhumba Man, - all flailing arms and legs, following through with those tender, lyrical songs that are uniquely his and varying things with up-tempo material like Talk Memphis, which was the current release at the time.
When I asked him for his autograph at the end of the night, he seemed genuinely surprised that anyone would want his signature. It's up there now, framed on the study wall. "Be good" he wrote.
I sincerely hope that he makes it through his illness and I wish him and the family the good fortune to ensure this. As others have written, his is a gentle soul, and yes he can be a touch on the rainy side like all sensitive beings, but the world is a better place for his presence in it. Be good Jesse.