For whatever reason that I can not explain, the death of Dan Fogelberg saddens me.
Dan Fogelberg, the folk-rock singer-songwriter who rose to prominence in the 70s with a string of critically-acclaimed albums such as Souvenirs and Nether Lands and saw commercial success into the 80s thanks to hits like “Longer” and “Same Old Lang Syne,” died Sunday (12/16) in his home in Maine after a long battle with advanced prostate cancer.
Squirrel Queen’s dad died of advanced prostrate cancer. I guess that’s part of what struck me. It’s a very hard thing to endure.
He was on the radio all the time when I was a kid. I didn’t really love his stuff, but he was part of my childhood when FM was a bit different and … I don’t know. Soft rock is definitely not my thing as I would have preferred to listen to Zevon or Lou Reed, but he seemed like a nice guy.
So R.I.P sir. You made a lot of folks happy.
Newscoma 
This hit me harder than I would have expected as well. My step-dad played on one his songs and he and my mom were always huge fans of his.
I’ll be digging up “Tuscon, Arizona Gazette” for a listen tonight. (Their fave song of his.)
Isn’t it an odd thing, Chez?
It’s a very strange and disconcerting thing, getting older and seeing icons, whether we liked his music or not, becoming part of our surroundings.
Incidentally, my dad loved him too, as did my mother.
The reason it hit you hard is because, though not given the credit he really deserved, Dan was an incredibly gifted musician who touched people very deeply with his gift. His radio hits were not nearly indicative of the immense talent the man had. Lyrically, he was a true poet, and he played many of the instruments on his songs himself. Remarkably accomplished as an instrumentalist. Plus, he was a quiet man who didn’t get caught up in all the hype of fame and fortune. He just preferred to make his music and live his life in the mountains of Colorado. He will be missed, but the impact of his music will live on.
In 1977, I was on a 4 hour drive to a jobsite with a co-worker who had Netherlands on cassette tape. I was pretty opened minded to new music, but had never even heard of Dan. The song Netherlands was the first time I heard Dan. During this trip I heard Netherlands twice and Home Free. After that trip I bought all of Dan’s albums, then the song books and started learning to play and sing his songs. He was the biggest musical influence in my life. I’ve seen him 4 times in concert. The first time was at the Music Hall in Houston around 1980. He played solo. I got chills when he was introduced that night as he walked across the stage and sat at a grand piano and opened with Netherlands. He left us a tremendous amount of great songs.
My mom loved him and I used to make fun of her…yet, I’m saddened today, too. Thing is, I actually kinda liked the guy. The value of a gentle soul singing a gentle song is too often underestimated.
I have been a huge Dan Fogelberg fan since my early 20s. I am now 48. Like Chris said, this was a man of enormous talent. I saw him in concert 5 times and will never forget what a tremendous performance he gave in each concert. I have been bawling my eyes out for the last hour, and will pray for his family to find God’s peace.
I have been a fan of Dan’s since 1975. He certainly had a voice and sound that was uniquely his. His lyrics could easily pull you into the emotion of the song. Many of his songs created visual imagery. A great example was “The Reach” from ” The Innocent Age ” LP. I too will miss Dan, but his music will live forever in my mind. See you on the other side Dan!!
Good to see these responses out here. I too am saddened in a deep way. Fogelberg’s music is a deep part of my musical DNA, and I’ve been a part of a band that does “tribute” shows to his music, covering both the hits and the obscure. I am honored more than ever to be one who will definitely work to keep his music alive.
You can find more of my thoughts on Dan here:
http://www.ericfolkerth.com/wheneftalks/files/danfogelberg.html
I’ve been thinking of Dan’s song “Wandering Shepherd” tonight:
“Wandering Shepherd…wander no more….
Rest from your troubles…your worries and woes.”
Eric
Well said, Eric. Well said.
I have been a fan of Dan Fogelberg for most of my life. I had most of his recordings on vinyl and then switched to cassette and now have the CD’s. I had heard of his failing health, of course, and then a very long time went by where I heard nothing. And I knew that things couldn’t be good. I’ve been playing his music in my car a lot lately and was planning to move his Christmas CD into my car this week. I’ve been thinking about him a lot lately and needed to hear his voice.
When I heard on the local news tonight of his passing, I burst into tears and my husband held me. My husband had never heard of Dan, but I brought his beautiful music to my husband and we were blessed enough to see one of his last concerts together. I have never forgotten the feeling of great joy I felt coming home from the concert and now I’m really devastated.
The only other musician who had touched me this deeply was John Lennon. Horrible that we had to lose both of these men in December, so close to Christmas. Even more sad that we had to lose them at all. And so young.
I was a lsad too. I hadn’t really thought about him or his music in years and when I heard today, I listened to a few songs and really felt nostalgic for his music. I always loved the emotional honesty and beauty of his songs.
I went to see him on his tour supporting Innocent Age around 1981 or so with my parents. I would have been around 14 and though I enjoyed the Eagles and other folk rock contemporaries I was a hard rock kid. I found myself truly enjoying the show and left the arena a fan.
I never was able to catch another show of his again but have since always enjoyed his music and felt as if I had been taken to a more sensible place after hearing one of his songs.
Dan came along at the right time. Current FM radio has no songwriters that can do what he did nor do they have the guts to play it if it existed. Commercial success was sacrificed for artistic beauty and freedom. By doing so he found a wide audience and thus became commercially successful.
Thank you for your music and your time on earth was far to short.
I met Dan at the St. Paul Civic center back in 1985 and again in Milwaukee in the early ’90s. He has a funny, friendly guy. His music helped carry me though early adulthood, through getting to know myself. I don’t know what I would have done without his wise lyrics to help me see what I was going through from a different perspective. It seemed like his music was there for me at every turn, through the ups and downs. I live in Colorado and even went down to Pagosa Springs once to see where he lived. I will miss his near-yearly tours and concerts at Red Rocks, and his incredible talent. Thanks, Dan, for everything.
I believe I first started hearing Dan through the womb as my mom was pregnant with me, haha. Ahh man, how I love him so dearly. I never thought I would feel the same kind of loss with a music artist as I have with passed family members. I don’t understand how Nikki Sixx and Tommy Lee are still alive, yet Dan had to go. But I suppose our higher power would MUCH rather have Dan up there then all the jerks we have down here with us. I didn’t know that concert of his 4 years ago would mean so much to me now. Such a beautiful man, inside and out. Hearing his music, I just want to sit still and absorb every single second of sound that comes through the speakers. I’m only 20, and I haven’t been listening to him since 1975, but I’ve been listening to him since the day I was born. He’s been with me since day one, and now that he’s gone, so is a part of me. I love you Dan, and I always will.
This is a sad morning for anyone who listened to anything Dan ever put out. I have been a fan since the 1970’s, had the honor of seeing him in concert probably a dozen times over the years and was always amazed by his ability to play any instrument out there. He was a underrated muscian and songwriter, but also made the choice to stay out of the the music industry hype. I still listen to Captured Angel as I go to sleep everynight. And with all his poetic and meaningfull songs, he really loved to rock it out at times. I have been checking his website for good news on his cancer for a couple years now and I had come to the reality that he was really sick. But as long as I live, his music will always live on and get passed on to anyone who will listen to it. He was a Gambler, and there was a place in the world for him, his gift, and his fans. Will mis you Dan
I have been a DanFan since his first LP Home Free. I have enjoyed various types of music over the years, but never in 36 years have I stopped listening to Dan. His music touched parts of me no other ever could or will ever touch. I have seen him in concert many times over the years and was never disapointed. Truly a great singer-songwriter-poet-artist-live entertainer. You will truly be missed, and I will continue to carry your music with me. Your musical legacy will forever live on. God blessed us with you and your talents will live “Ever On”.
It is sad to learn about his passing this morning. I have set up a tribute to honor him. Please leave your memories and thoughts there too. http://www.respectance.com/danfogelberg/
Another sad day, Shortly after remember John Lennon’s death, we lose Dan Fogelberg. Netherlands is one of the greatest albums ever written, and will be playing most of the day. Thank you for the great music.
Just came across your blog and am reading all the responses. Dan has always been my favorite performer and I am truly saddened to learn of his passing. I used to fall asleep each night listening to the first side of “Home Free” and this morning listened to the song “Souvenirs” on the way into work. I have quite a few songs on my iPod but could only bear to listen to one as I found myself getting weepy in the car. I’m glad he is no longer suffering from that horrible disease but thank God he was here and gave us so much to remember him by.
I was 13 years old when I first heard Dan’s music coming from my older Brothers room. It was Home Free and I was spellbound. I had never heard anything so beautiful in my life and then Souviners came out and I truely fell in love with the songwriter and the man…I was about to have my very first Star-Crush. I was going to meet this guy, marry him and live happily everafter. Then I turned 14 and moved on to other dreams, but the love of his music has sustained me thru 40 years of life. I have purchased his music in vinyl, cassette and CD. I’ve seen him 3 times in concert and taught myself to play guitar and learn his music. Thank you Dan for being a part of my life and helping me to appreciate the beauty around me.
Add me to the growing list of those who are saddened by the passing of Dan F. So many of his songs seemed to be relevant to my own life in some way. I’m very sorry we’ve lost him, but grateful that he left us his music.
I just remember hearing him on the radio all the time when I was younger… I guess that makes me an old fogey now. LOL. I wasn’t particularly a fan, but his music touches me.. especially “Leader of the Band.”
RIP Dan
Angels never leave our side and are always in our hearts. May his bright light shine on forever more…
Dan Fogelberg was timeless. I listened to him on my way to ski country when I was in college. Every time I hear his golden voice, I think of snow covered fields in Vermont == driving to the mountains with the Power of Gold cranked to the max. What power and inspiration.
You know not the day and the hour. He is another of my heroes, that I will not get to meet or hear new work again. Kurt Vonnegut was another icon — very down to earth and one of us.
We will miss you Dan.
Although I’m a hard rock guy, his songs never failed to move me. We all have songs that transport us back to a place and time in our lives, and many of his song’s do that for me. Souveniers never fails to make my eyes water. That’s the power of a special song by a special artist. Be at peace Dan, you’ll never be forgotten…
Very saddened. I was a fan and was touched by a great deal of his music. Those who only heard his hits on the radio (Another Old Lang Syne, Leader of the Band, et. al.) might not understand as well. Not only did he have a great range of musical talent – he was a good man, committed to the things he believed in like ending war, living in harmony with nature, and protecting the environment. Unlike so many many popular musicians he never let his success go to his head. He was the sort of person who preferred spending his time at his home in the mountains or his getaway on a remote island on the Maine coast.
I attended one of his last concerts in Long Island shortly before he was diagnosed.
His words to “River of Souls” seem appropriate now . . .
“To every man the mystery, sings a different song
Fills his page in history, dreams his dreams, and is gone.
There are no names to fit these faces
There are no lines that can define these aged spaces
The spirits dance across the ages,
And melt into a river of souls.
— What is mine?
— What is God’s?
— What belongs to the River?
We melt into a river of souls.”
see my web site at sportschanel.wordpress.com
It’s amazing how music from our childhood means more as we get older. All day I’ve been listening to Same Old Lang Syne and awed by the power of each lyric. Heartfelt, pained, sincere…mere words but I believe they ring true for his music. How his music has touched me over the years, I’ll never be able to say, but I can say thank you. Thank you for putting my feelings into music. I’ve been moved to another time in my life when my heart hurt and I didn’t know how to move on. But I’m reminded of how the past is quickly the present as…”the snow turned into rain.” Thanks, Godspeed and rest in eternal peace…
I hadn’t heard the news of Dan Fogelberg’s passing until reading your post via the WordPress homepage. I’ll miss his music. I wasn’t exactly a “fan” — I associate him more with the stuff my older sisters listened to incessantly when I was growing up — but I remember seeing him play live in Nashville circa 1994 and I was blown away by his musicianship. He did a blues piece that rocked the house, which he prefaced by saying “This is the kind of stuff we like to play when we’re not getting paid for it,” and I’ve never thought of him the same way since. RIP Dan.
I was a senior in HS in 1977 when I asked a fellow female student if I could borrow her Captured Angel record. Her response struck me then as it does now. One of those moments that live on forever. She said this music is for girls. No I thought it for anyone who is searching for peace in thier lives. When I heard the news today I was 17 again borrowing that record………………..
yeah, it’s a bummer. He was young…
[…] Dan Fogelberg For whatever reason that I can not explain, the death of Dan Fogelberg saddens me. Dan Fogelberg, the folk-rock […] […]
Heard “Stars” on WLS and Dan became the author of a lot of my life’s soundtrack. Like him, I always found Peoria to be a good place to be from, but, like him, the orientation of this midwesterners life and it’s focus on relationships and living in as much harmony as you can without compromising values is a lasting legacy. I pray that God will grant his family peace and that they will, with me, celebrate the time that Dan shared with us.
I would like to thank you all for stopping by here at Chez Coma. These sentiments are really wonderful.
Dan – thanks for all the great songs. You were a gifted musician, lyricist and singer. I think we could count on one or two hands the number of artists who could match the passion and creativity found in your songs and in your voice. Gordon Lightfoot comes to mind, but I’d have to think longer and harder to come up with any others.
The one thing that really struck me about Dan was his diveristy. My friend told me about an album Dan had put out in the mid-80s called “High Country Snows” – a sort of bluegrass/country style album. It was great! I couldn’t believe the guy behind this album was Dan Fogelberg. To be able to be that diverse is a wonder in itself, but not only did he do it, it was a remarkable album – one of the best all around bluegrass albums I’ve ever heard.
Dan, you will be missed, but fortunately for us, your music will remain with us forever.
May God bless you for your contributions to humanity, and your family for sharing you with us all these years.
Bob K.
Dan, his music, and his concerts were (and will remain) a soundtrack to my adult life. With Dan’s music we looked inward to see that we are the problem, the solution, and more often than not the beauty. From high school to now in my 50s, I have fallen madly in “like” with some wonderful women to Dan’s music. In Colorado, when many were arrested for protesting at Rocky Flats, Dan hosted a concert to raise money for a defense fund. His friends Tim Weisberg and Joe Walsh came to help. He put his music where his heart and mind and soul were. Dear God, hold him close.
Thanks Dan for sharing your music with us. Thanks Jean, family, and friends for sharing Dan with us.
Rest eternal grant unto him, Oh Lord.
And may light purpetual shine upon him.
For some cosmic reason, I’m an old folk rocker who recently got reacquainted with Dan’s music. I’d not heard about his terrible battle but I was refreshed with his soothing music and powerful lyrics that instantly brought back memories of college days and simpler times. He had quite a gift and the news of his passing really rocked me.
Thanks for letting me add my small tribute to someone who stirred my soul with his music. Rest in peace Dan.
When I heard the news that Dan had passed I felt particularly sad. I / we all played his first album over and over in college. It was like Sweet Baby James or Tea For The Tillerman – hauntingly innocent. We still listened to the Stones, Zeppelin and Hendrix but we had some new, refreshing colors on the palate, so to speak. He showed an emotional “nakedness” that made it okay to take chances with the sweeter, more tender side of life that many of us felt but hadn’t had the courage to express. His courage made it easier to bring it out in ourselves. His later albums brought out a side that rocked more and added dimension to the tenderness. I introduced my wife to Part of the Plan and she did it justice as she sang and played it for her audiences. I’d lost touch with Dan’s music in recent years but news of his passing brought back all those times in dorm rooms, dim lights, listening over and over as the textures unfolded. Thanks Dan for opening yourself up on vinyl and making it safer for us to do the same in our daily life. You were a true artist and you will be missed.
Dan Fogelberg…another icon of my generation gone. Why is it that we as baby boomers..have so much trouble with the notion of death and dying? It pained me also to see his passing. Deeply..which surprised me as I loved his music, but have loved others even more. “Time passes on..like a river it must always run”..Jon Hall of Orleans was right. May we all take some happiness from this talented mans life, and God Bless his family, for he was truly a star.
To Dan’s family, Dan’s Fans, and Dan himself if somehow he can see this from the ether…..
Though not surprised, I was still very saddened to hear of Dan’s passing yesterday. While listening to a local Detroit radio station, I heard a brief snippet of Auld Lang Syne suddenly begin playing, and my wife and I looked at each other and immediately knew what was going to be announced next.
Keeping this brief, all I can say is that Dan is only one of two artists whom I have purchased (nearly) every recording of. Ironically I asked my family to track down “Full Circle” online for one of my Christmas presents this year, since I had trouble locating it at traditional retailers. Dan’s music has undoubtedly touched my psyche / soul since I was in my mid-teens, and still does ’til this day in my mid-forties.
In tribute to Dan, I brought my copy of “First Christmas Morning” into the car today to listen during my snowy half hour into work yesterday. Very appropriately, the song “In The Bleak Midwinter” began just as I parked and shut off the car. This song is probably my most favorite on this album because it sounds so much like one of Dan’s traditional songs. As I sat looking at some greenery poking through the fresh 10 inches of snow, listening to Dan’s voice singing about Jesus Christ and the “bleak midwinter” (which yesterday definitely qualified for), I totally appreciated the moment. If you have this album, I encourage you all to take a minute to meditate and play this song.
God’s speed, Daniel Grayling Fogelberg. You will be missed. May we meet someday, somewhere ….. Along the Road.
Todd Benner
Canton, MI
“The Leader of the Band is tired…” I too inherieted the love of Dan Fogelberg from my big sister – when some friends of her’s had “There’s a Place in the World for a Gambler” sung at their wedding – second marraiges for both. I saw him in Houston several times, once with the sold out crowd, and him on stage with only his guitar. Awesome. Strange, but Sunday night I had downloaded Leader of the Band and Run for the Roses, to play on my MP3 – I played them for my 17 yr old son in the car Monday, and he is hooked – wanting to hear everything. I think I heard Leader of the Band for 15 minutes straight as he absorbed every word. Cancer is a mean enemy, and he wins way too many times. Rest in peace my friend!
I am deeply saddened about Dan’s passing. Altough I was not an avid follower, I always stopped to listen when he was on the radio. I look forward to hearing “Same Old Lang Syne” during the holidays. This year it will be bittersweet. Rest In Peace, Dan.
I’m sad today. Dan Fogelberg was not only a beautiful lyricist, but he shared his love of nature and the planet with the world. He will be missed, yet we have the gift he leaves us with forever.
Dan Fogelberg was one of the greatest song writers of the 20th Century. He ranks up there with James Taylor, Joni Mitchell, Bob Dylan and the rest. He was not a teen idol or a pop music icon. He was a serious writer and singer as well as a multi-instrumentalist. Also an incredible guitar player in all styles of music. His songs are some of the most beautiful ever written. If you have not heard much of his work I suggest you go out and find the album “Netherlands”. It is a true masterpiece. Here is the link: http://www.danfogelberg.com/infonetherlands.html
I don’t know of any artists that are of his caliber today. The music industry has lost one of the greats. We love you Dan!
I can still feel the pain of the loss when I first heard “Same Old Lang Syne”
so many years ago.
I get the same feelings today when I hear it…
What a beautiful song that perfectly captured the moment.
God Speed!
I am very saddened at the loss of Dan. His lyrics touched me on many levels. I was privileged to see him in concert 7 times, the first time with front row seats. Every concert was different and special in its own way. My thoughts go out to his wife Jean, and all the other fans who mourn today. May you rest in peace Dan. God Speed.
He was definitely representative of a certain era that is no more. Plus, he was not really what you’d call “Old” or “Dying Material” like some of the other famous people who have recently died.
I hope his untimely death from Prostate Cancer will create awareness and encourage the menfolk to get to their doctor’s and get those DRE’s and PSA’s done. It’s not fun but a lot easier to do than having to endure what Dan, SQ’s Dad and my Dad had to endure (not to mention those that loved them). Mr. Smiff just went a few weeks back after dealing with an issue for a long time and part of why he put it off was he was scared. He was SO relieved when he had it all done and is now taking medication and life is just better so guys…GO. Do it for your kids, families, friends…just go.
I was first turned on to Dan by my religion teacher in high school in the mid 70’s. He handed out the lyrics to “Part of the Plan” in class. I didn’t really come to appreciate Dan’s talent until I was in college and a close friend had me listen to “Netherlands” with her. I was blown away and ever since, Dan has been the biggest musical influence in my life.
I can remember around 1980 waiting for the new Fogelberg album, “The Innocent Age”, to come out. I kept going back to the store asking if it was in yet. Finally it arrived and the albums remained on my stereo turntable for weeks. I can still remember the first time I heard “Same Old Lang Syne”. What a wonderful image he constructed in that song. That album really demonstrates what an amazing musician and lyristist he was.
While Dan’s passing is incredibly sad, I feel fortunate to have been around to experience his music live. Nothing like his live acoustic sets. What a legacy he is obviously leaving. My iPod hasn’t stopped since I found out about his demise. I do find console in his music and wonderfully scripted lyrics. Ever On!
Mike Perez
Manassas, VA
I just stumbled across this website, and it’s comforting to know that Dan Fogelberg has had such a profound and positive impact on the lives of so many. I’ve been heart-sick since hearing the news that he had lost his battle with cancer (I didn’t even know he was sick). Many who have posted prior to me have conveyed the stories of how they first came to know this man’s work, and mine is none too different, the concerts, the girlfriends, the break-ups, the “jam sessions”. I too, believe that most of his best work never made it to the airways, and it is truly a shame. My Children know, and love Dan’s music. Somehow, in some obscure way, I think listening to “Fogelberg” has made me a better person. Thank you Dan, thank you so very much, as I think we are all better, for having been able to experience your magic. To Dan’s wife Jean, and his family, may God asuage the anguish you must feel. I honestly believe that the chorus of Angels in heaven are welcoming home one of their own, who was able to spend some time down here on earth to give us what he gave.
Jim A
Woodbridge, VA
I’ve felt so raw these last two days. Dan was such a huge influence in my life from the first time I saw him perform in ’91 at Detroit’s Fox Theater, singing the praises of my beloved Wild Places, to seeing him perform for the last time at his taping of Soundstage in Chicago in 2003. In between, I once again began playing guitar, mostly his music that touched me in so many ways, I traveled all over the country to see him perform, met wonderful new friends along the road who felt the same way I did, and now we all grieve together, so sad that this wonderful musician and poet has left us so soon. “Be on your way, maybe someday we will meet again…”
Sue Laabs
Northville, MI
I first heard of Dan when I purchased an 8-track (yes I know) of a cheesey movie called FM back in ’78. Dumb movie, great music.
It had “There’s a place in the world for a gambler” on it. Needless to say I bought the vinyl “Souvenirs”, and a few years ago, the CD.
I’ve enjoyed his music ever since. As I listen to “Gambler” even now, I have a lump in my throat.
I’ll miss you Dan.
Matt T
Saint George, Utah
Like him or not (and I did) it just sucks when a part of your youth dies. Fogelberg was one of those guys. His High Country Snows CD is in high ipod rotation. The last time I felt this way is when Catfish Hunter, the A’s pitcher of the late 60s and 70s died. Could it be we’re getting older? Nahhh…
I’ll miss Dan Fogelberg…He was part of my high school and college days…Can’t put a finger on a favorite song of his, but the Reach is close…Favorite album is most likely The Innocent Age…and to know that “my” innocent age is gone…this really brings it home. God bless you, Dan…Rest in God’s peace knowing that you brought goodness to this world.
As a fan of Dan’s since Part Of The Plan a lifetime ago, I had just been hoping for the past few years that “no news meant good news” with regard to his illness. Today, while surfing the net, I am stunned at Dan’s passing. It seems to me that the whole world should be in mourning for the loss of such a wonderful musician and decent human being. It makes no sense that this man is gone at such a young age. He deserved to be able to live a long life in which he could enjoy the fruits of all his labour. Today the Earth is a poorer place and I find myself really hoping that there is a Heaven.
I posted something for Fogelberg as well.
I really liked the guy.
Nice template . . . btw
~m
I had the absolute pleasure of taking my twin sons to see Dan live at the intimate Keswick Theatre in Glenside PA in June of 2003. They got to see and hear one of my favorite artists. I sang and played many of Dan’s songs in my band when I was young. Now my boys sing and play his songs. Thanks Dan, you have bridged a gap between generations but with your passing ,you have left a void in our hearts…and we will never forget you.
I’ve gotta say that some of my most memorable moments on the roller rink, slow skating on “couples only” in junior high was to Mr fogelberg. His voice and music used to make me melt. The songs were poetic and always told an amazing story sometimes of romance and sometimes of deep relationships between father/son or love lost and refound and lost again. Touching and moving. He is a great talent lost.
You guys are so wonderful. Thank you for the kindest thoughts.
I love Dan Fogelberg. I first heard his angelic voice on “The Power of Gold” from the Twin Sons of Different Mothers LP in the late 70’s as a 15-year-old. I had an intense crush on him, as he had an angelic face to match the voice. His body of work proves that he was a singer’s singer, a musician’s musician, a writer’s writer. He was a blessing on this earth, and now he’s blessing heaven.
Very touching comments. From “A Place In the World for a Gambler”:
“There is a light in the depths of our darkness
there is a calm at the eye of every storm
there’s a light in the depths of our darkness
let it shine
let it shine
oh, let it shine…”
Right now, Dan, these lights shine for you.
I just heard about Dan’s passing today. It’s nice to read the heartfelt commentary here from so many who were/are fans of Dan and his music. I saw him open for the Eagles in the summer of 1975, but didn’t become a fan until the fall of 1977 after hearing the title track to Nether Lands. It felt like he was singing about the west, right where I was living at the time (Montana). It was here that someone turned me on to Home Free. I back-tracked for Souvenirs and Captured Angel. My brother bought me Twin Sons… for Christmas 1978. By the time Phoenix was released in late 1979, I was a college DJ in southeastern Minnesota. There, I met like-minded people from Illinois. In fact, Dan’s song “Illinois” was a staple on our little college station. As someone alluded to earlier, this reminds me of a specific era. Watch the film, “Almost Famous,” and you will get a good taste of what being alive during that era was like. The singer-songwriter 1970s. True artists playing their own songs, and very well, I might add. Though it clashed with the emerging punk and new wave of the latter part of that decade, it had sustainability. Reading your comments here shows that Dan Fogelberg has a resonating sustainablity, almost 30 years after the end of that era. God bless Dan Fogelberg, his family and all of his friends and music fans here, and around the world. We miss him already.
With the first song I heard way back in the seventies, I was hooked on Dan Fogelberg’s music, and I remain a fan. I saw him (third row seats right in front of center stage) in Dallas in ’80 (I believe) and his solo performance was simply amazing. It was without a doubt the best concert I ever attended–because it was about the music and not about the show! I have listened to all of his music regularly in my car and in my home, and I have had to repurchase vinyl, cassette, and even CD because I played them until they were just used up! His music is unique and humble. I love his voice and appreciated his words. Some of my favorite songs are those that never got air time, but were pure poetry set to music. Although I do have my favorites, there were no songs on any of his CD’s that I did not like. He was a true artist and I am saddened at his death, and I am sad, too, that there will be no new music from him.
I happen to live here in Peoria, Illinois, and I put on Dan’s Greatest
Hits and actually drove over to the convenience store at the corner
of Frye and Prospect (while playing the song Same Auld Lang Syne).
The grocery store Dan refers to is now a convenience store, but
it’s still there…needless to say, I could barely muster up enough
composure with all the tears….it felt so good and bad at the
same time….
I have loved Dan Fogelberg’s music since the summer of 1977 when I first heard The Nether Lands. He was a part of my youth. He will be greatly missed, but what a wonderful gift of music he gave to the world. God bless your soul, Dan.
I definitely feel a void left by his passing. Like most everyone else posting, I’m in my 40’s and DF has been a big part of my life and his music always made me THINK. I love a crafted song by someone with real talent. I’m no “music was only good when I was young” kinda of guy, but these posts simply reaffirm that music, when it’s GOOD, lasts and resonants with people. I think DF sold something like 25 million records and I get really tired of the bashers, those simply too insecure to explore the feelings and emotions that DF dared to share considering, and he’s admitted this, that he wrote very introspectively and shared it with the masses….come what may. He got his share of criticism for “smaltzy songs”, but those come from people who heard maybe two radio hits and assumed that was his him in a nutshell and it certainly was not. If making you think and feel is “smaltzy”, I’ll take it everytime. The orchestration, production, lyrics, and overall combination of levels required to make his records, particularly Netherlands and Innocent Age, simply can’t be made by 99% of the artists out there today…that’s not Nostalgia, that’s just a fact. You will live on DF. Rest in peace.
I first heard Netherlands at a friends house and felt that I had entered another dimension. The music was unlike any I had ever heard before. We played that album over the whole weekend and I memorized every lyric. We loved dancing shoes on that album as well. I immediately went out and bought home free, souvenirs and captured angel.my records wore out from overplay, and then Innocent Age came out. What a body of work in one Album. Both a commercial success and a beautiful concept album which I know is more meaningful to all of us as we are listening this week and attaching the depth of the lyrics to the event of this week. What a beautiful soul and talent (not to mention how much of a crush we all had on him growing up). I haven’t stopped crying playing these songs and yet they surround me, comfort me and amaze me at how strong these songs are even 30 years later.
Know that you are not only loved but respected and admired for the true talent and wonderful person that you were. Your gifts touch us all and bring us bittersweet memories this week.
Very saddened to hear of the passing of the late great Dan Fogelberg.My memories of him are much like all of these other wonderful comments being posted and I can tell you that the name Dan Fogelberg meant exactly the same here in Ireland as it does in the States.There was a general perception of him here as being this gentle,caring soul who remained constant throughout the many changes that occured in the music industry during Dan’s career.Same Old Lang Syne is a song that everyone,and I mean EVERYONE here in Ireland knows and loves and looks forward to hearing every year over Christmas and New Year’s.As others have mentioned it was his openess and innocence that set him apart and whilst I loved the hits I equally rated such beautiful tunes as Old Tennessee,Captured Angel,The Reach,The Sand And The Foam,Anastasia’s Eyes and on and on and on.May you rest in peace Sir.God Bless.
Neil Poutch
Dublin,Ireland.
I met Dan when I was in highschool as his family were friends of my sister’s in laws. That was in the very early 70’s in Peoria, IL. Even during that one quick interaction and then lthrough the years as I listened and appreciated his music I knew he was a gentle soul. When I listened to his music and saw him live he touched me in a way that is impossible to discribe. Through his music and lyrics I felt he understood the human spirit better than anyone and helped me to do the same. I had hoped to hear him one more time live but alas will have to live with the memories. Dan will always be appreciated and missed by those of us he touched and he will live on is all of us. Thank you Dan for giving us joy and peace through your music – I am glad to know you have found peace now. You will be remembered!
So sad, so eye opening,
I saw Dan in concert in Charlotte, NC just a few years ago, and until then did not realize just how many great recordings he had given us. The concert took me back so many years to my teen childhood.
He was such a talented musician, such a great guitarist. Perhaps his passing will shake a little thought in the men that read this page about the possibilities associated with the disease that took Dan Fogelberg from us.
Good bye Dan,
Craig Taylor
I saw Dan Fogelberg at a Concert once and now that he is gone I just appreciate him even more.He got me through a tough part of my life when i had cancer and his soothing music is better than any other artist Ive ever heard from.Ive been crying for a week now and this is the hardest thing I even had to deal with.Its like a part of me died when Dan Died.HIS SONGS ARE AMAZING…. WISTERIA MAKES ME CRY SO DO THE SONGS ON hOME FREE.SOME PEOPLE SAY THAT ALBUM WAS A DUD!!!I SAY NOT BECAUSE i THOUGHT EVERY SINGLE ALBUM he had was great..He will be sorely missed by me and all the other people who loved him.Dan, Without your Music,I dont know if I would of Survived cnacer.I dont know why I survived Cancer but I would of rather it me die of cancer than you because you were a great inspiration to me and no other Male Artist in the history Of Music has touched me like you have… God bless you Friend.. God bless your family. This xmas wont be the same without you… :O( I LOVE YOU DAN FOGELBERG…. !!!!!!!!!!!!!
Dan Fogelberg was a genuine Human Being and touched a lot of lives.He wasnt a jerk like some of these musicians we have now.He will be missed and I cant decribe the loss he has meant to me..There will never ever be a Dan Fogelberg and his music will live ON AND ON AND ON… Dan God bless you and your Family and Im proud to say Im from your State..ILLINOIS AND DAMN PROUD OF IT…. God bless you again…You were a truly gifted Singer and Guitarist.IT ISNT FAIR THE ONLY THE GOOD DIE YOUNG…ITS NOT FAIR.. Hope I see you again!!!! In heaven !!! :O) ;O)
The passing of Dan Fogelberg hit me hard. I didn’t just listen to Dan’s music: I studied his music. Beginning in the late 70’s. To me, Dan was much, MUCH more talented than some may realize. His song-writing, and singing was deliberately complex. He was not apprehensive to experiment with new formats and explore the realm of his musical gift. . He challenged himself. Very intelligent man Anyone who’s deep into the study of music composition needs only to listen to a few tracks on “Netherlands’ to get a sense of his expertise. He made it sound easy. It wasn’t. To any voice teachers out there: Here’s the guy to study. He obviously had a grasp and full understanding of the intricacy of vocal musical notes and had a range that was …well…astounding to say the least. In particular, when he sang his acoustic numbers on stage he performed with intense feeling and discipline and could put his very soul into a held note. And you felt it. That incredibly flexible, accurate, and emotional vibrato. The intensity. Talented? That word doesn’t do Dan justice. His voice could be gentle as the wind as in the track “Scarecrow’s Dream’ or as powerful as the growl of a full-throttled Harley Davidson in “Road Beneath MyWheels’ off “Greetings From The West”
You were a gift from God, Dan. They’ll never be another talent like you and I will miss you more than I can say. I will have your music in my heart forever
It is nice to read all the nice comments on DF. I had the pleasure of enjoying his music my teen years and playing his songs endlessly. He was an underated musician and his style made a huge impact on the way I play music today. Here are some of my DF highlights: Favorite songs include,
To the Morning, Stars, Old Tennessee, Below the Surface, Part of the Plan,
Changing Horses, Place in the World/Gambler,Along the Road, Love Gone By, Scarecrow’s Dreams, The Reach, Run for the Roses and Sutter’s Mill. Best overall Album would be Souvenirs….Home Free, Innocent Age and Nether Lands close behind… It is amazing how DF played all styles of music extremely well….I too like many of you enjoyed his “solo” concerts. DF’s passing is an end of an era for me….This past April I closed out a vigil for the Va Tech shootings with Place in the World for a Gambler…No better
song for that occasion…Blessings to DF’s family…
Don Halterman
I have always believed that no news is good news, but in my heart I knew that his health was failing. Even prepared, my sense of loss is great. The world has lost a very special soul, leaving many with no chance of ever listening to his music live, or waiting in anticipation of what would be written and sung next. His music and lyrics have been the soundtrack of my life. My joy and my solice, the diary that I would never write. In a strange twist of fate, I, too, lost my husband to cancer 8 years ago. I knew I needed to hear the comforting, reassurig words of his songs. My nieces’ husband, also a gifted musician, played “Along the Road” at his funeral mass. Sharing with our families what was in my heart. I know true, raw grief and have healed over the years. How quickly that emotional and physical pain returned with Dan’s passing. I take comfort in his “Joy in the Coming Home”, knowing he’s now free from his disease. My heart and prayers are with his family, especially his wife, during this time of loss and healing. I take comfort in knowing his messages deeply touched us and will continue to be treasured for years to come. I feel very blessed to have all his music and many concert memories to remember. May God bless and comfort his family.
If we are lucky, there will be someone to follow in his footsteps….
However, NO ONE will ever fill his sandals………
Farwell and RIP to “the living legacy” who lives within all of us who loved Dan and his music…..
I too am so saddened by the loss of Dan. “Forefathers” were he sings of his family heritage is one of my favorites. Also Netherlands. What a gifted poet, lyrisist, and singer he was. I pray Jean is doing well, and that God is holding him in his hand right now. Ever On, Dan. You will not be forgotten.
Allie
Isn’t it amazing how deeply Dan touched our souls with his music and with his mere presence? Very few true poets and troubadors come in a generation and he was that and more. In all honesty, his death has touched my heart like no other’s since Elvis. My college years were spent listening to Dan and John Denver, another poet and troubador. I don’t wish her bad luck, but it is so sad when talentless people like Brittni Spears roam the earth caterwalling and people like Dan, with true talent and something to actually give, die. He was immensely underrated and underappreciated. His lyrics will live on…and I don’t think that can be said of Brittni’s work…perhaps there is justice in the scheme of things.
A twenty something girl in her red celica convertible travels from south Florida in 1982 to spend time working in Winston Salem North Carolina. On her way up, she listens over and over to Dan Fogelberg’s Innocent Age. I have such incredible memories of chilly autumn days driving to the North Carolina mountains with the top down as I listen to Lions Share, and The Reach, and Ghosts, and Nexus….and I spent those many hours learning and seeing the world in a new light. Long lost friends that I met while living there and I would spend nights listening to Netherlands and Souvenirs. I am eternally grateful for the backdrop provided by Dan’s music for so many of my 20 and 30’s decades. Listening again to his music today is as powerful and awesome as it was back then. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you.
When the dross is removed from the body of music of our times, a good chunk of the shining
remnant will be the works of Dan Fogelberg. A musician’s musician, songwriter, poet, singer’s
singer, modern troubadour who followed his muse regardless of commercial trends…and a
gentle and beautiful soul unafraid to reveal the dreams, hurts, joys, and love that lies within
each decent soul on this earth. His journey, expressed musically, became ours as well,
especially for those of us growing up and coming of age during the ’70s and ’80s, where
his music became a soundtrack for the lives of much of a generation (or two). His music
has given hope, inspiration, and solace to us, from “Home Free” in 1972 to the appropriately
titled “Full Circle” of 2003. The scope of the artistic vision revealed in the double album “The
Innocent Age” makes it Dan’s magnum opus and one of the greatest recordings of all time,
foreshadowed by it’s masterful predecessor “Phoenix”. 1999’s “The First Christmas Morning”
stands among the finest Christmas albums, and in the liner notes Dan reveals himself as a
musical scholar as well, further enhancing his standing as a modern Renaissance Man.
Dan Fogelberg was unable to make a bad record, and many of his finest songs saw little or no
airplay–so no “greatest hits” album can do his body of work justice, though the 4-disc box set
“Portrait” (with several new songs included) from 1997 gives it a great try and predictably sets
a very high standard in the process.
Great music is timeless, and music that is able to reach to the heart of one’s being is a rare
and precious gift, and one that can be discovered still by generations to come. Men of Daniel Grayling Fogelberg’s stature and quality come along so rarely, and yet often leave us all too soon and too young. His music and humanity were so personal, engaging, and uplifting, and
his loss feels so personal as well.
Farewell to one of the greats, he belonged to us–he belongs to the ages now.
Godspeed, Dan Fogelberg. God’s comfort to his wife Jeannie, family, & friends.
It is so comforting to have stumbled upon this web site and the community of fellow admirers of Dan Fogelberg, for whom his voice, music and poetry meant so very much. You have all said it so well–we grieve and reflect on how thoroughly blessed we have been to have had his heart song inspire and grace our lives. I have been anxiously searching for one of the media outlets: NPR, CBS, Fox, any of them to run a proper remembrance, but he has been overlooked for some unfathomable reason. Perhaps in a world mesmerized by the vacuous and bizzar, a pure, deep, sincere artist like Dan doesn’t make the mainstream radar. I am so thankful to have read all of the above tributes to the artist who has touch so many of us so significantly and touched our River of Souls. Farewell, Dan…I trust that “Between the world of men and make believe you can be found”. My love and condolences to Dan’s family and close loved ones. Thank you all for the comforting words.
Mick Souter
I am still upset. I loved Dan since age 15 and am now 48. I am so thankful for his beautiful music. I am thankful that the last concert we attended was with our then 13 yr old son who wanted to see the man that his mom so loved.
Take care of Dan God…he is special and will be missed.
What can I say. I have been a fan of Dan Fogelberg’s since the early 80’s. There is a gentleness about Dan’s songs and the way he sung them, that made me feel so peaceful inside. I never had the pleasure of meeting Dan Fogelberg, I was just one of many of his fans, however, I just know that he had that same gentleness about hisself
I just got through reading all the postings. I am so moved by all that has been shared. You think you are the only experiencing this loss, but you find out you’re not. It has been truly so difficult to go through this. Dan came into my life when I was 19 years old. Now at 47 I can also say that his music was the soundtrack of my life. I was only able to see him 3 times. Each concert was so impressive. His lyrics are so meaningful and they truly describe what we human beings go through in our everyday lives. Even though Dan was such a private man, we were still able to know him through his lyrics. Death scares me tremendously, but now knowing that our dear friend is in Heaven, it makes me less scared. I feel I will see him when my turn comes to leave this Earth. I’ll have new memories to make with the music that he will continue to write up there.
Until we meet my dear friend…….Be at Peace!
hi, im from u.k.. andwas a huge Dan Fogelberg fan , ..all my life….feel deeply saddenedthat weve lost such abeautiful soul/spirit, asDan obviously was!!!All hissongswere so, so haunting andbeautiful!!Phoenix, still my favealbum!!!God bless yiou, |Dan , you are dearly, dearly missed!!!!!!!Tony/England
just to add to thisDan Fogelberg memorial, ….his musicwas/is up there with the truly greatr of music….Jackson Browne, Joni Mitchell, Neil Young, Gordon Lightfoot, JamesTaylor e.t.c…Danssongswere memorable ,touching &had an awesome ability to move your heartstrings!!I brought many of my friendsto adeep appreciation of hismusic!!!An awesometalent, ..theworld isless, because of hissad demise!!Farewell Dan, ..welove your music&songsso ,so much , andwill always treasure your music!!(Netherlands still, my favealbum!!!)…As im ahristian, …i knowthislife is a dress rehearsal, for an eternal life ,to come!!..i think Dan believed, also, in the Lord, ..andthey surecould usethat viuce of his , in the heavenly chorus!!!!!!Godbless, Dan, …..til we meet again, ….”Along the Road”!!!!To ny/England
It’s been nearly three weeks now and I’m still as heartbroken as the day I heard the news. Can’t really even find the words. Even though I never met Dan it still feels as if a family member has passed. Knowing about his condition, I’ve tried to keep up but heard no news until his death. His music has been a part of my life for the better part of thirty years and I had the privilege of seeing him in concert five times. Never once did he disappoint. I just don’t see or hear anyone today who even comes close to touching my soul the way Dan’s music did. I guess the thing that saddens me most is the fact that I’ll never have the opportunity to see him again. His music will live forever…..just wish he were still around. I hope he knew how much he meant to people while he was on this earth….
How uplifting it is for me to read all of the heartfelt remembrances of Dan Fogelberg here. The most wonderful part is how so many people listened way beneath the hits to songs like Innocent Age, Netherlands and Along The Road. Since I heard of Dan’s death, and after not having listened to it for quite a while, I’ve had the Netherlands album almost constantly in my car stereo (I drive a lot). What can one say about that album except EVERY song is another masterpiece! Another writer here notes that Dan makes making music sound easy–how true!–wow, try hitting one of those falsetto notes and not sounding like an idiot! And there’s never been a more perfect song than Promises Made–except for several dozen other songs Dan authored. When I think of who I consider great contemporary songwriters, people who’ve moved me the most, I think of Joni Mitchell, Jackson Browne… not a whole lot of names come to mind. But wow Dan Fogelberg is up there among the elitest of the elite. Combine Dan’s impeccable songwriting with his angelic voice and mastery of practically anything with strings or keys, and his talent could be called frightening if it weren’t so utterly loveable.
So I send this message out into the universe–Dan, you don’t know how much your being around while I’ve been around has meant to me. Losing you has been a terrible thing to feel–except for that about you we haven’t lost.
Bye bye, and see you on the other side. “We all become Forefathers by and by”, indeed.
I was raised in the 70’s and there has never been a doubt that Dan Fogelberg had defined a period in my life.
He was the reason I first picked-up a guitar and he was my inspiration to follow the softer side of music.
His words and melodies tap into each and every one of us whether we are aware of it or not. We as humans inherently want peace in our lives and when Dan Fogelberg expressed his art, it gently reminded me of just that.
I suppose it hasn’t quite sunk in yet. I expect that somewhere in the night and the not so distant future, I will awaken with panic and an overwhelming sense of grief. Forgotten memories of the past will rise and that much too familiar feeling of melancholy will overcome me.
I just wish I could have seen him one more time. I wish he had produced one more album. I wish for all of us that he was still here.
I find it confusing how when someone we had never met passes over that we can be left with such a void. Perhaps that is why music is so unique. It is the lanquage that we all understand and it can be a molding force behind the people we become.
So the next time you are alone in your car, feel not inhibited to sing out the notes of your life. You never know who might be listening.
My sympathies to all you fellow Dan Fogelberg admirers and fans, and to Jean, his Mom and brothers, his friends, anyone who reads this whose life was touched by his presence and his music and lyrics. It is gratifying to find that there are people who are still needing to voice their sadness at his death 20 days after the fact. I have been searching the Web everyday since December 16th for anything I can find to help me mourn his death. Thanks to everyone for still wanting to chat about Dan. A part of me still can not believe he is gone. His music was, indeed, the soundtrack to my life – more than even I realized. We were truly blessed to be alive when he was, and to hear the Minstrel sing, play, and write. Godspeed, Dan. I will always listen for you.
Another great musician, Stevie Ray once said…”The only thing we take with us is the love that people have for us…”.
In Dan’s case, he left us all some incredible music/memories and he took an awful lot of love with him.
I was 12 when I first listened to my sister’s Home Free LP and played “Come the Morning” over and over – it was my favorite song. Even at 12, I knew his music was very special. Over the years I’ve heard his songs on the radio and it was just a given he would be around forever. I am deeply saddened by his passing. Such a beautiful man that touched so many is gone. The day he passed, I bought his Home Free CD online. Last night I heard it for the first time since my youth and…I knew just about every word of every song. I was surpised that when ” Come the Morning” came on…I was 12 again. Haunting lyrics and the voice of an angel…he will be deeply missed.
I still can’t sing along any of his music yet without getting choked up.
I was very young as well when I first listened to him. And I have heard many people who are DF fans say that they felt obscure in some way because they were not listening to the norm at the time. I always felt special. As if I had tapped into something so deep, so meaningful in many ways. The loss has left a permanent void.
I had a dream last night about DF. I woke at that 4am and never went back to bed. I was too distraught…much too shaken over realizing that he was not in our lives anymore.
I wonder if other out there are questioning their own mortality because of our great loss. Now at 51, my teens years and discovering Dan really does not seem that long ago.
I relate to Anie and how all the lyrics just come back when you hear his music. Those words of his were so profound and hit the mark in so many ways.
sp
I was recording “Another Auld Lang Syne” off the radio (in the pre mp3 days) when the announcer broke in to say that John Lennon had been shot in New York and had passed away that evening. What a legacy Dan Fogelberg left for us….a lot of great music and great memories. I saw him twice in Atlanta in the early 80’s….remember he closed one of the shows with a cover version of “Paperback Writer” that was really good. I will miss hearing more from him.
The name “Fogelberg” may not have been as sexy as Springsteen or Springfield, but he was
just as important to me in the 80’s. It’s not Christmastime until I hear Auld Lang Syne, and have a fit of nostalgia, about the “one that got away”. Longer though, is by far his most beautiful description of true love that never dies. And his music will never die either, because IT IS IN OUR SOUL!!!
A true songwriter/musician as Dan is a very huge loss in my heart. I remember in college when a friend introduced me to his Homefree album in ’73. I was so moved I tried to learn every song on my guitar. Changing Horses is my all time favorite song of his. Living in Nashville the last 20 yrs., it’s hard to find musicians who can measure up to his talent to me. Only Kevin Welch’s Western Beat album comes close. Not to mention Joni Mitchell and Willis Allen Ramsey also back in ’73. I’ll never get tired of these four artists albums and still play them constantly.
Just part of the fabric of my life. God Bless you Dan.
Beyond his poetic songwriting, his lyrics were masterful. I was fortunate enough to see him in 1978, 1989, and 1999 and each time it was a great heart touching experience. Some of his earlier songs and new marked a great transition of life for me. From “part of the plan” to “leader of the band” i covered his music in just about every band I have ever played in. “Changing horses in the midle of a stream” was just as pricless as…The lyric” Saw an old lover in the record store” gives me shivers as it can take me back to the time and place the first time I heard a song of his…I recently saw a live concert on PBS and he did not dissapoint me…it was priceless…especially the last song when he slipped the riff from Derick and the Dominos “Layla” into the song he was playing..he will be deeply missed, but we can keep him alive by playing his music….nice example of slipping the light fandango…..Dan you will always be in our hearts and souls
It’s ok to say you liked Dan, he was a cool breeze, talented, and loved life. Never wanted to leave us all. We will never have another one like him.