04/14/2025
I was 30 years old when Lowell passed away at age 34 in 1979, and he remains just as I remember him. Today, he would have been 80. The celebration of his life has ebbed and flowed with the years, as his genius is forgotten and rediscovered by subsequent generations of music lovers, but those close to him will always have him in their hearts, and fans will always be reminded of who he was when they hear one of his songs.
For those unfamiliar with Lowell, I can tell you he was a consummate musician, singer, and songwriter, whose talents were immeasurable to those he affected throughout his life, and beyond that short span he was with us. He was complicated. Most artists are. Being an artist requires living a life full of contradictions, while being able to divine how to convey those battles of the soul to those interested enough to hear the tale. Lowell George did it through his personality—he could convince almost anyone that he could see inside you, that he knew your pain, your happiness. He could be a great listener. He could drive you crazy, too. The ultimate window to view him through those layers of complication, though, is his music and lyrics. Listen to “Roll Um Easy” and “Trouble.” Listen to “Fat Man in the Bathtub” and “Mercenary Territory.” Finally, give “Long Distance Love” and “Willin’” a listen. Songs with depth and endless horizons.
Lowell knew love and heartache. His sense of humor was something to behold. It could be sophomoric, mischievous, self-effacing, and easy going. He could sing like a bird, and played slide guitar beautifully, powerfully. His phrasing in both was impeccable. There was a price, however, that came with that innate genius.
He was vulnerable in the long run. That is not a crime. That was where his intimacy lived. His songs convey that vulnerability. That’s what made him human, made him attractive to others.
I invite you to celebrate Lowell’s 80th with some of this in mind. We are lucky to have him at our disposal anytime we want or need him. Send some good thoughts his way with a Happy Birthday wish. I certainly will.
Bill Payne
(Special thanks to John Baxter)
