Remembering Richard Wright

After hearing about the passing of Eartha Kitt on Christmas Day (She was known for singing the song, Santa Baby), I thought of another type of lists that are popular at this time of year, Notable Deaths. Now for a death to be "notable", it means that it was usually someone important, famous, or even infamous. Usually celebrities make the list, along with politicians, actors, musicians, athletes, authors, and the like. When perusing the lists from various newspapers across the nation, you'll also find local celebrities who make the list, like TV anchormen or civic types. This year, the death of Paul Newman made just about everyone's list, along with Suzanne Pleshette, Tim Russert, and Tony Snow. Charlton Heston made many lists, along with Heath Ledger. Some are more obscure, like Richard Knerr. Do you remember him? He was the founder of Wham-O, Inc., the maker of the Hula Hoop, Frisbee, Slip-n-slide, and Silly String! For me, the most notable death of 2008 was the passing of the legendary keyboardist, Richard Wright, from the rock group Pink Floyd. Not as well known as Roger Waters or David Gilmour, he helped give Pink Floyd their signature sound as the backdrop of synthesizers and organ helped them define progressive rock in the late 60's and 70's. His keyboard contribution on such classics as Echoes and Shine On You Crazy Diamond was masterful, as well as my personal favorite, Dogs. To read more about him and his life, go to the NY Times article at http://www.nytimes.com/2008/09/16/arts/music/16wright.html?_r=1 or do your own Google search for Richard Wright. The other thing that I often think of when I read these lists of people who died in the past year is, will I make the list when I die? Will my death be notable? Hopefully we won't have to know the answer for many years to come.