Book of Remembrance

I first heard Valentyne Suite in 1980 and was an instant fan. I love Jon's work, from Graham bond right through John Mayall, the original Colosseum, Tempest, Colosseum 2, and back to the Colosseum reunion. I was lucky enough to see Colosseum on the first reunion tour (twice), and then finally on a wondefully emotional evening at Minehead in early 2015. The musicality, energy and brilliance of the band on that night will stay with me forever. Thank You Jon, Barbara, and all the guys, the fire will burn in my heart for all of my life.

I had the pleasure to work for Jon as a light technician in Salzburg, Austria, on several occasions. A true gentleman, a fantastic musician and a man with a good sense of humor.

I met Jon around 1975 when I worked for a music shop in Banbury. We had booked him to do a drum clinic for either Rogers or Arbiters. I cannot recall which, I am sorry but time slips by and I left the trade shortly afterwards. He was outstanding both as a drummer, person and presenter of the product. Jon answered all questions with humour and honesty. At this time I remember he was trying to replace the gap in the front line vocals and guitar either from Tempest or the remnants of Colosseum. I was a semi-pro bass player on the local pop and jazz scene at the time and to meet one of my heroes was an honour, I never told Jon I was a muso. Jon we all miss you, such a formidable percussionist and leader. Our's and Barbara's loss is no less years later. Thanks for the music Jon.

I never saw Colosseum, but their records got me through late nights in northern Maine winters, back in my youth during the 70s. Beauty in the darkness. Thank you, Jon.