I received a call a little while ago from Buster B Jones’ girlfriend, Nancy, who told me that Buster passed away today. He passed while Bobby Gibson was playing See You In My Dreams for him. His liver failed … he was only 49 years old.
I am shocked by this sad news.
Buster was one of the best guitarists in the world. You should check out his MySpace page and listen to some of his fantastic guitar picking.
He was a huge influence on me, and I had the pleasure of getting to know him a bit. He was a fine man. He will be missed greatly, not only for his remarkable guitar talent, but also because he was a special guy, a kindhearted man with a wonderful sense of humor and a generous nature.
The picture above shows Buster playing my guitar, which he autographed for me. Nancy wanted me to know that my guitar is now invaluable because it was the last thing he signed. I am honored beyond words to have his signature on my Godin. I am even more honored to have gotten to know Buster a little bit.
Anyway, Thom Bresh will be doing a tribute to Buster, and I will link to it when it is available. I also will try to compose a tune in Buster’s honor and record it later this week, and I’ll share it with you. Obviously I will play it on the guitar Buster signed for me. In the interim, here is a tune I recorded in appreciation of him a few months ago, on my 30-year old Alvarez acoustic: For Buster. It was just something I put together as a sort of appreciation for Buster and for his inspiration.
Update: The tune that I composed in memory of Buster, after his passing, is at this post.
Please keep Nancy and Buster’s family in your prayers.
Rest In Peace, Buster. We will miss you!
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