Shawn Smith R.I.P.

Shawn Smith, one of my favourite singers of modern times, great vocalist of such projects as Brad, Satchel, Pigeonhed and more, has died. He passed away on April 5, he was 53.

He was associated with the Seattle rock scene, but his greatest musical inspiration and biggest hero was Prince. Smith's very distinctive voice was full of pure soul emotions and in his piano playing you could hear almost gospel-like solemnity.

Shawn Smith never reached the fame and popularity he deserved but it was never really his goal. Instead he could reach listener's heart within few second, after few words and few simple chords of his songs. At least mine. He sang straight from the heart, and he was probably most effective and moving at his own beautiful, uplifting ballads.

Listen...