Arthur Lee - 1945 - 2006
By: Thomas Hannan
First Syd, now Arthur.
Rockfeedback is once again saddened to hear of the death of another psychedelic genius, Love's Arthur Lee. Renowned for his work with that iconic cult sixties band, who found most fame with their masterwork 'Forever Changes' (still, decades on, one of the hippest sounds that could ever infect your summer, and a true classic), Arthur had reportedly been suffering for Leukaemia for some time. It's a testament to the personality of the man and the enduring strength of his music that when he was struggling to pay for the cost of his treatment, many admiring, famous musicians were quick to jump to his aid and organise a benefit concern for the fella. Sadly, treatments were not successful, and Arthur passed away last Friday.
Rockfeedback was lucky enough to catch, and film, Love on one of their reunited tours at the fifth All Tomorrow's Parties festival. Then going under the name 'Love With Arthur Lee', with Arthur being the only original member remaining, he overcame the absence of the other Lovers by delivering a sterling performance, full of songs from that aforementioned classic and words of advice for the youngest crowd he'd performed in front of for a good while. That it was a highlight of that weekend wasn't in doubt. Check the footage.
'My songs aren't timeless', he once told us at that show. 'It's just that time is circular'. Let's all give 'Alone Again Or' a spin and prove him wrong. Cheers, Arthur.
Artists in this article: Arthur Lee