Book of Remembrance

I discovered Jon's music via Dick Heckstall-Smith who I'd seen at the very first Alexis Korner tribute concert. (I'd overhauled the piano used by Rolling Stone pianist Ian Stewart.) I was more into the rock side of things than jazz in those days but got my hands on what Colosseum records I could. I loved the blend of jazz and rock and also liked the more progressive Colosseum II which of course featured Gary Moore. Through Jon's music I've discovered some great artists - it's always been learning curve for me. The impact of Jon's playing didn't hit me until the Colosseum reformation and I bought all the albums again on CD. That reunion concert with DHS has some stunning playing from all the band. It was fantastic to hear them again and a big thank you to all for allowing us to revisit that great music. It got a new audience excited by exciting music. So much music today is a bit pike painting by numbers. The exciting element of improvised music is there in many of Jon's performances. Thanks you so much.... Collapse

I have seen the late Colosseum twice un Germany. Great show, great Musicians. All of them. RIP Jon you are now part of the heavenly Allstars... Collapse

Jon fed and nourished my interest in: Revox, Cheese, Assam Tea Alan Stewart ( who built Temple Music Studio and my control room), Italian Food Sitting near the hi-hat Playing so quietly on some stages that I couldn't hear myself Apple Mac pros and cons Mic technique European history Roman history Logic Pro ( and all antecedents) Production Troubleshooting audio tech Spreadsheets Supporting other musicians, both on and offstage Digital publishing Tennis Supporting others with technical help Maintaining a loving marriage and family I hope I can edit and add to this as my brain catches up 🙂... Collapse

I first saw Jon Hiseman on Christmas Eve 1969 playing with Colosseum at Mothers Club in Birmingham UK. It was a privilege to be there and see such a wonderful musician at work. I was very young, and the impact of that show was the beginning of my lifelong interest in real music. I went on to see him perform many times afterwards, but it was not until the recent Colosseum Farewell Tour that I finally met Jon and spoke to him at The Robin in Bilston. I mentioned Mothers and was soon astonished at his detailed memory of the club - even of the people who organised and ran the place. When I had the good fortune to meet him again last April at the JCM show, he spoke to me as if he had known me all his life, telling me how he would carry his drum kit around just by hand in those early days. Such a friendly man - and so gracious. We have lost not only a fabulous musician, but also a remarkable and rare human being. RIP Jon - you were so very special, and cruelly taken from us when you had so much more to give. Long may your flame continue to burn. .... Collapse