I've been getting more positive response about this song, primarily via e-mail from distant corners of this wide world, and I still like it myself. When a good friend like Barry suddenly passes away it does leave a big hole in one's heart, most certainly in the hearts of his family, and in the hearts of our music community. No song can make that all better (and I hear echoes of Bob Franke singing that sentiment in my head) but even if such a song brings tears to our eyes (and a big lump in our throats) it may help with the grieving process. I would hope that it doesn't just reinforce depression.

Tomorrow (October 27) I plan on delivering my song to our friends in Gloucester, at the shanty session at Cameron's. I do hope we don't spend the entire evening singing such tribute songs! Don't get me wrong. I do want to hear David Coffin sing his rendition of Lonesome Ernie Johnson's tribute shanty and Alexander Thompson sing the his memory song that he posted on Facebook. Still, it would be nice if folks also sang a few irreverent sailortown songs and work shanties.

Charley Noble