Young’s bassist died aged 65…
Neil Young has paid tribute to bassist Rick Rosas, who died last week.
Rosas first worked with Young as a member of The Bluenotes band on Young’s 1988 album, This Note’s For You; most recently, he filled in for Billy Talbot on Crazy Horse’s European tour this summer. He also played with CSNY and Pegi Young’s band, The Survivors.
Now both Neil and Pegi Young have paid tribute to Rosas in separate posts on Young’s website.
Neil Young wrote, “It is with great admiration, appreciation and sadness that I note the passing of Rick Rosas. Rick played on many of my records, from Rockin in the Free World, Eldorado and This Note’s for you, to Prairie Wind, Living with War and Who’s Gonna Stand Up. There were great live performances with Rick which will be unveiled in upcoming Archives releases, chronicling the talent and soul of one of the greatest musicians to ever play with me. Heart of Gold and Trunk Show, two motion pictures featuring Rick and directed by Jonathan Demme, are among my favorite creations of all time. Trunk Show is still unreleased.
“Rest in Peace Rick.
“Lots of love,
“Neil”
Meanwhile, Pegi Young wrote: “On Thursday, November 6th, I lost one of the dearest friends I had. An original Survivor, RTBP gave me love and encouragement and support as I progressed from a shy and timid singer and songwriter on our first record right through to the making of our last record, Lonely In A Crowed Room, which he loved and was very proud of. He was a brother to me as I was a sister to him. Knowing he was always there on stage at my right shoulder gave me great comfort and support. He was always there for me through thick and thin and never let me down.
“His loss is a terrible shock to our band of Survivors, along with his many other dear friends and loved ones. So respected in the music community, he was truly an amazing bass player. I was incredibly lucky and honored to have him in my band and to count him among my friends.
“As with our dear friend, Ben Keith, Rick too passed on the occasion of the full moon.
“His loss is profound and we will always miss him. Our hearts go out to his long time partner, Elizabeth, and the rest of his family they suffer through this unexpected and unthinkable loss.
“Sending you love and light as you travel to the other side Rick.
“Love always.
“Pegi”
Credit Anthony Pidgeon/Redferns