I Lost A Friend Yesterday!

Wayman Tisdale died yesterday after a two year battle with cancer and I have lost a friend.

Most remember him for his basketball play at the University of Oklahoma. I still remember Memphis State playing Wayman Tisdale and the Sooners to get the final four in 1985. In addition to setting several records at Oklahoma, he went on to a productive career in the NBA.

I must confess. I have never met Wayman Tisdale but we have shared a lot of time together. "How?", you ask. Well, after his NBA career, Wayman Tisdale went on to become one of the most well-known names in contemporary jazz. He played the bass guitar as if he was telling a story. Even though I have never met him personally, I have spent a lot of time with Wayman. Most of this time was in my car on the way to and from work as well as other places. I would listen intently as Wayman played the bass almost as if he was talking with me. His music graced the local jazz station until it was taken off the air. Now, I listen to him on XM radio. Making one of his concerts was on my list of things to do someday. Now, I will never get that chance.

So today, I say goodbye to a friend. Fortunately, for all the jazz enthusiasts out there, Wayman will live on in his music and in our hearts.