Love that you reposted that Rex!
Randy didn't want to be the subject of pity or conversation. He would tell me of some little (or big) health issue and then always, always end his message with "but life is good! I have no complaints and so much to live for."
When he first told me of his illness he assured me it was private and I was the "only one" he has told. I always felt surely that wasn't the case, but the message came through that he didn't want his illness out there for public knowledge because he knew we would all see him differently. He wanted us to see his whit, his humor, his smile and joy of playing the uke.
Randy was a super talent in every way. His vids almost always had a simplicity in how he played. That was the Systemic scleroderma. His fingers were tight and it was difficult for him to make even the simple chord shapes. His lungs were effected and singing was a struggle as well. Aren't you glad you didn't know! All you see is his joy for playing and making us smile.
Randy was musically gifted. He always worked out his own chording to songs and could change keys on the fly. He told me his band mates were always impressed by that. But, I believe his real gift was that of making people feel welcomed and happy.
If I could only be,
like Randy in a tree,
Id monkey around and make you smile,
and hope you'd stay and play a while.
He is infectious! He made you want to pick up the uke and join in.
This year has really taken me away from the seasons. During part of my remodel in the house I had packed all my things and stuffed closets full of everything I needed out of the way. Randy contracted me and asked me to participate in a collaboration. He said it is just a small song and he would handle all the editing, saying I know your swamped right now and its ok if you cant but it could be fun.
(Of course! Everything Randy does is fun.)
When he told me the song I knew just what I needed in order to pull it off. I had to pull out the boxes and find that wig and set of Austin powers teeth!
Believe me its was worth the time and effort and it was just the distraction I needed from all the construction going on.