After arranging to record a solo album at Sound Farmers Studio, the owner, Mark Thiede, told me that a veteran sound engineer, Billy Triplett, would be available to work on the project. I soon learned that Billy had toured or recorded with many famous musicians including Eric Clapton, Steve Miller, Prince, U2, Joe Walsh, James Brown, Robert Cray, Pat McDonald, The Motels, Mel Tillis and a long list of others. I felt extremely fortunate that Billy liked my music and was recording my album. Two guitar virtuosos, Chris Aaron (a great friend of Billy's) and Dennis Panneck, agreed to perform on several songs. Also agreeing to contribute was my son, Jesse Collins and friends Mike Donovan, Mike Maloney, Kevin Vick, Jim Edwards, and Mark Thiede. I later contacted, and eventually added, the gifted, booming "Citizen Voice" of David Lee. Billy was a joy to work with. His easy going style, coupled with kindness and a sense of humor, made everyone around him comfortable and at ease. His innate ability to get a great sound filled me with confidence, optimism and focus. Things were moving along nicely, then one morning Mark called me to tell me that Billy had suddenly passed away. Time stood still. The outpouring of grief, love, sadness and appreciation from hundreds of people around the planet validated what I had recently learned: Billy had countess friends and admirers that truly loved him as a person. Chris Aaron* offered to help complete the project in the additional role of recording engineer. Mike McCaulley took over production engineering duties. Between Chris, Mike and Mark Thiede we continued and completed the album. The song "Why" was changed to a story about Billy and includes some of the last musical tracks Billy recorded. Words can never fully express my appreciation of Billy Triplett as a person and as a recording engineer. I must also thank Mark Thiede, Chris Aaron, Mike McCaulley, my son Jesse Collins and my talented friends. I am forever grateful. These songs are my reflections and observations of our country, politics, life, love, loss and hope... Lc October 2014 *Chris Aaron passed away on October 15, 2014, just before the release of this album. My thoughts and prayers go out to his loving family.
