Another figure of the San Francisco music scene has passed on. Chet Helms gone at 62. Father of the Summer of Love; launched Janis' career; founder and manager of Big Brother and the Holding Company; helped stage "Be-ins" at Golden Gate Park; started and ran Family Dog shows. Another good one gone. Damn, I hate this getting old shit. Rage on, bro. Read about it.
An Icon of music, who needed way more recognition than he got for his efforts. Without Chet, there would be a large gap in the 60s music scene, and the SF Sound would not be the same. Cheers to you Chet, you made people happy here, and helped make this world a better place. To be sure, where ever he may be going now, he will have friends there!
Aw, man, that IS bad, sad news. I always love that picture of Chet with Janis, shortly after she arrived in San Francisco, where they're infront of that shack with the dog, and she's wearing that hat (!) and looking happy and ready to begin the adventure of her life. It made it much easier for her to know someone there from Texas, who was going the same places she was, and who was getting bands together and promoting. I sometimes think that there IS such a thing as destiny.
what a great quote: “It was a beautiful death,” said his wife Judy Davis. “It was a goodbye party. We all sang to him and told stories. He died as he lived — surrounded by love.” may we all have friends around at the end of this part of the journey.
R.i.p. Chet! You Will Be Sadly Missed By So Many Wonderful Souls That You Have Touched! You Will Forever Be In Our Hearts And Souls, And I Promise You We Will Help Carry On The Family Dog Name If Anyone Would Like To Purchase Any Family Dog Items Please Pm Me! Peace Love And Music To All
