John Hartford was one of my longest and dearest friends from 'way back' on the river-- some forty years ago when we met on the Steamer DELTA QUEEN. He was loved, and beloved, by so many friends and fans, and I can feel that love on these pages for our friend, teacher, mentor, prophet, philosopher, artist, and steamboatman.

Though I do not play music, I remain a devoted fan of his. Practically anything that has happened, or will happen, on the river, John also had a similar experience on the river in his own time, and his experiences are found within the lyrics of his songs; so I often quote his words of an appropriate tune to illustrate a point to be made, or to express a feeling I might have.

Maintain the faith. Play his stuff. Buy an album. Keep John Hartford's name and his music alive.