Ive been thinking about this all day, so Im going to write it down. I cant claim to have known Jay Curley personally. I knew of a lot of stories about him and the band, but never really knew him. I would always hear people talk about him, usually anecdotal. But on the occasions when he and I were both in the same place, he never struck me as standoffish or egotistical like a lot of people would be if they were in a successful band. He would always say hello if I saw him out at a gig or in town, and there was usually some brief conversation as well. I got the impression that he was friendly like that to everyone. Easily approachable, but treated everyone in the same friendly manner (except Stevie OBrien, but thats understandable. Hes Scottish and supported a different soccer team). I dont think Jay was ready for the fast rise of Tumbleweed in the early 90s, but he seemed more prepared for the reunion. Sadly, Jay has now passed away, which has taken everyone by surprise. However his presence on the scene as a musician, gig-attender and friend to those close to him has impacted on a lot of people in varying ways. At the end of the day he has helped leave an indelible mark on everyone he was in contact with, and that shall last a long time. Thankfully there are 20 years or more of recordings and photos documenting his life during this time. At this time it feels like a hole has been ripped in the Wollongong Music Scene. The scene itself isnt large and one person missing from it, especially someone who was known by so many, really hurts. Its the kind of loss where you may not have known the person but you feel the sadness and loss in the people around you who did. I know myself as well as others will also turn our thoughts to the Curley family who have both encouraged and influenced the Wollongong Music Scene a great deal simply by their involvement. Jays passing will continue to affect them and Jays friends for a long time, and it is during this that the Wollongong Music Scene and Tumbleweed fans will tighten up in support around them. I can speak from experience that this is what the scene does in times like this. His music legacy will live on in recordings, his image will live on in photographs and video, and his very spirit will live on in all those he interacted with and touched deeply. Farewell Jay.
Posted on: Tue, 26 Aug 2014 07:46:17 +0000
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