We here at Music Maker are very sorry to hear of the passing of Lou Reed. Back at the beginning of Music Maker, Mark Levinson invited Lou and Laurie Anderson to Cello Studios in NYC to listen to country bluesmen Neal Pattman and Cootie Stark do a recording session with Lee Konitz. It was a fun day; Jocelyn Wildenstein also came by.

NYC – what a place; it is where great musicians live, many of whom are still very inquisitive and were sincerely interested in learning about Music Maker’s mission and meeting the artists. Lou Reed was a very active supporter of the Jazz Foundation of America. Music Maker artists have often been invited to their gala fund raiser at the Apollo Theater. Lou was always there lending his support and performing. When I went he would always come say hello to MM artist that was performing. John Dee Holeman was gracious and told Lou a few jokes, he actually laughed, but when I took the picture, his classic stone face came on.

It is always very sad to hear of the news of the passing of another artist. Here at MM unfortunately loses artists every year, and the grief of their family, friends and fans is truly profound. Here at MM our prayers are with Lou’s family and friends during these most difficult of times.

— Tim Duffy