Once again a crack has appeared on the heart of Philadelphia's musical landscape. The passing of Ronnie Walker is particularly poignant as he had, over the past 15 years, become such a favourite of his UK fanbase that took him to their hearts as he enamoured them with his pitch perfect voice, personal humility and soft spoken manner. Many of our now aging heroes struggle to recapture their recorded legacy accurately when thrust in front of a microphone and real soulfans understand and respect that but with Ronnie it was a guaranteed home run every time he cleared his throat and transported us all back to a wonderful time in our lives.
I remember when he was appearing in Benidorm and we (Bunny Sigler, Dean Courtney, the band and myself), met up in the ballroom for our first show rehearsal. Ronnie had no hesitation in stepping up first on the stage, a quick word with Al the bandleader and whoosh, he was off and running. He ran through all his planned set list without missing a single beat, placed the mic back on the stand and spoke into it one single word.... NEXT! LOL! Of all the artists I've ever had the privilege to work with Ronnie was the slickest and there was a reason for that.... He could sing! I mean really sing! That large frame hid a beautiful high tenor voice that embraced the Philly style so eloquently. He was like a powdered hand in a calfskin glove. So, sad as it is that he has left us, I for one will not dwell on his passing but rather, celebrate his musical achievements and especially that he finally saw and felt the love we had for him and his work. Sleep well my friend and congratulations on a job extremely well done. Dave