How very sad, and what a great loss to the world of music. I send my prayers to Bobby, his family, friends and fans. Bobby’s contribution to the Stones’ sound was immense and immeasurable. Of course, he added his magic touch so many songs by other artists as well. For decades, I would crank up the sax solo on Dion’s “The Wanderer” whenever it came on the oldies station, reveling in the melody and groove. It would send chills down my spine every time. It never occurred to me that Bobby was the player, probably because I assumed he would have been far too young. Only when his book came out did I learn that the solo was played by a 17 year old Bobby (then I thought to myself, “AHA! No wonder I love it!). I’m not a musician and can’t articulate my thoughts in technical terms, but he just had THAT FEEL. The melodies and rhythm that his brain & gut told his fingers and breath to play were just natural, grooving, rocking PERFECTION. I feel so fortunate to have seen him onstage so many times. In addition to his spectacular playing, his relaxed, charismatic, “good ole boy” presence onstage was always a treat. I would just grin from ear to ear when he was playing his heart out, and he will be dearly missed at future Stones shows. I was fortunate to have had a lovely conversation with him after a Winos show in ’93, and I echo what scores of other fans have reported over the years - he was kind, funny, down-to-earth and definitely had that endearing, mischievous “twinkle” so many have mentioned.
Many thanks to you, Bobby. Your musical legacy on earth is rich. You can play your horn for the angels now (and maybe even teach Gabriel how to groove).
Bobby’s solo (played at age 17) on Dion’s “The Wanderer” @ 1:39
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KdbQ5vxuw7g