Illuminations Book: A Gratitude Exercise in Music and Life

As I sit down to compile this year's 'People Who Died' playlist, I'm filled with a mix of emotions - gratitude, nostalgia, and a touch of melancholy. The music industry has lost some incredible talent over the past year, and it's hard not to feel a sense of loss when you think about all the amazing sounds that will no longer be created.

The list is long, but it includes names like Sheldon Reynolds, Chip Willis, Van Conner, Thad Beckman, Luqman Brown, Dennis Budimir, Charles Simic, Sebastián Marino, Kim Crawford, Gangsta Boo, Fred White, Tony Bennett, Shane Macgowan, and Anita Pointer. Each of these artists, producers, engineers, and session players has left behind a legacy that continues to inspire and move us.

For me personally, this playlist is also a celebration of the music that has shaped my soundworld over the years. From the Commodores' 'Nightshift' to Earth Wind & Fire with The Emotions' 'Boogie Wonderland', each song on this list holds a special place in my heart. I've been lucky enough to have had the opportunity to discover and explore a wide range of genres and styles, from jazz to rock to hip-hop.

Of course, no playlist is perfect, and there are always going to be artists who fall through the cracks or get overlooked. For me, that includes local music heroes like Is Said, Matt Wagner, and Kim Crawford, whose talents deserve recognition. And then there's the issue of streaming, which can make it difficult to discover new music and artists.

Despite these limitations, I want to take a moment to express my gratitude to everyone who has ever listened to any of these songs or read my words about them. Your support means the world to me, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to share my passion with you.

So pour a little out for the fallen musicians, and let's celebrate the music that continues to bring us together. Whether it's through streaming or live performances, music has the power to transcend borders and boundaries, and that's something we can all be grateful for.

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