22 October 2001 -
by Micah 'Prof.' Robinson
The last stop on this year's North American tour. It's been fantastic. So full of great memories. We've met and reunited with so many of Burning Spear's fans…it feels like we're taking a place in history sometimes. And maybe, that's true. It's certainly a once in a lifetime experience!
Toad's Place is one of the more familiar stops on the tour and the fans arrive with still-fresh memories of the last time they were able to catch Burning Spear…it's as if the vibe from last year or earlier has left a burning desire for a repeat performance. New Haven will be changed by this night's Burning experience.
Closing words:
Well, my friends. It's time for me to sign off for at least another tour season, and hopefully no more than that. This year has been a memorable one for so many reasons. There are so many people to thank. I would like to use this space to thank some of them, but first I will apologize for those whose names I may not include. You really are important.
First, thanks must always be given to the Most High, Jah Rastafari, without whose blessings none of this would be possible. Then to Mr. Rodney for giving us all the opportunity of a lifetime. Who would have ever thought that I would be playing behind a true living legend, or that he would find a place in this great work for someone like me?? It is truly an honor. I could never thank you enough for the guidance and personal advice. Everyone should have an employer like you. We would all be less without you. Also to Mrs. Rodney, who keeps things together from the home office like no one else ever could. They say that beside every great man is a great woman…somehow I think they were referring to Mr. and Mrs. Rodney.
I need to thank all the band members for their support and suggestions…everyone. Stephen Stewart for his discipline and focus in running rehearsals and sound checks, as well as wicked keyboard work. James and Clyde for being great 'running mates' in the Burning Brass, Mike and Dave for providing the Drum and Bass backbone that all reggae music relies so heavily upon as well as humor and reasoning to keep us going. Big up, to Cecil…crucial lead guitarist and great person, Gillie for the skank, the now famous Gillie Punch and so much more. Thanks would be incomplete without props to Tedo for unbelievable humor under all circumstances, a steady hand with merchandise and a readily available song to keep us all going, and to Sylvan for his quiet strength and steady hand with the logistics of keeping track of everyone and great cooking. No one else could have done it the way you have. Maximum Respect!!! And last, but certainly not least, to the countless fans who make it all worthwhile. You all give as good as you get!
Give Thanks.
Peace and Blessings to all. Don't Hurt the Rastaman! Keep the Spear Burning.
Prof. Out.
