Author Subject: Chuck Cuminale Remembered ~ Page 1 ~ 2 ~ 3 ~ 4
tori Posted At 19:08:41 07/12/2001
whenever I was sad I would listen to CBJ and smile. It would change my whole mood like magic. Thank you Chuck for your magic.
Jones Posted At 19:33:12 07/12/2001
Tragic indeed.

I never knew Chuck, nor did I know anything about him... other than the idea he might be considering a move to Memphis.

I do a radio show here in Hawaii that is extremely brutal. Punk rock..crunchy stuff in general. Somebody recently sent me a disc, "the color blind james experience". Well, I opened the shrinkwrap only because I was amused by the name. The "sender" recommended I play the "Memphis" trac, so I fired it up.

The basic idea of my show is to play the likes of Slipknot, Papa Roach, Limp Bizkit (yawn) and so on and so on.

For shock value we throw in soething obscure and way out there "Put the lime in the coconut"..whatever. We proceed to talk over the trac, eventually scratching it off with disposable disregard and moving into the next set..Black flag, dead kennedys etc.

Well last week this was to be the fate of "Memphis"...trouble was, none of us wanted to yank the trac. The song, like the show was pretty hokey, I mean that with all respect, as that was obviously the artists objective..

So anyway...with thousands of headbangers frothing at their collective mouth...the entire song got air, a first for us in 4 years. The reacton was.."Whoa, this is weird"..."shall I scratch it"? "No let it play". That song perfectly represents my show, for some perverse reason it has to be heard.

Tonite I'll listen to the rest of the disc. My heartfelt aloha to all that knew and loved this man, clearly a talent and a pleasure to play @ KKCR fm Hawaii. Thank you Chuck,
Jones
Stan Merrell Posted At 19:35:50 07/12/2001
I had the strangest, most wonderful experience today. While I was sitting at my desk this morning, I started thinking about Chuck's music. And then, out of the blue, I started thinking about "Fledgling Circus," a song I hadn't listened to in a while. Throughout the day, it kept resurfacing. I carried it in my head all day long. At the end of the day, I got in my car & turned on the radio. Guess what was playing? "Fledgling Circus"

As Terry Lindsay said today on his radio show, Chuck's music is a living legacy.
Janet Williams Posted At 19:39:29 07/12/2001
I like remembering talking to Chuck , and what I remember is not only what I said to him about my favored topics but the way he absorbed them. They were communications I like going back over. I think he may be, actually, some kind of relay point for those particular significant thoughts., in another realm now.
Tom Posted At 19:52:44 07/12/2001
I got the news today, oh boy. I have been sitting here in my desk, way out in Portland, OR, feeling sad for Chuck's family and close friends. Tonight I'll be playing some Cab and the Mississippi Sheiks and some Bob and thinking of what could have been had I not been introduced to some incredible music due to Chuck. (Not that I'd be listening to Rush, but you never know!)
The great thing about these postings is that Chuck seems have spread some kind of magical pollen over everyone he encountered. We're all infected here, and we have to spread that pollen to others now who never had the chance. Maybe I now know why I have been playing 'I shall be released' (from Rock of Ages, of course) all week, hitting repeat repeat repeat.
Prayers to Chuck's family and thanks to Chuck for being such a good force in the world.
Mary Posted At 20:03:26 07/12/2001
Shocked and shattered. Yes for the music. Yes for the love. He the dishwasher to me the waitress...telling stories while looking out at the river and making all of us laugh and wonder where it all came from. Heart and mind. Market House/ Lowlife Cafe/ Rochester. Dancing with my father at my wedding while the boys played on. Surprises. Breakfast at the BTB. Gypsy vegetable soup. Thankful for knowing him. Blessed to count him as a friend. Thoughts of Chuck generate more smiles than tears.
Love and strength to Jan and the boys.
Dave Anderson Posted At 20:16:03 07/12/2001
Chuck Cuminale, what a great guy and wonderful all around human being! Chuck definately made huge contributions to the arts and was the foundation of our music community. Through the magic of music his spirit will live on forever, he is immortal. My heartfelt thoughts go out to his family.
Dennis Friscia , Seattle WA. Posted At 21:21:37 07/12/2001
My heart goes out to Janet and their sons. I am in Seattle but will attend the ceremony in strong spirit.

I had the pleasure of sharing the stage many times over the past twenty years with Chuck, even subbing for a short while in one of his bands. We had a great mutual respect for each other's work. His keen sensibility and totally unique style of composition has been a source of great joy for me and influence on my songwriting.
What comes to mind:

a show by the Water Street Boys(sans CBJ) at the Lowlife Cafe in Oswego circa 1979(?). The band and I were both performing at some benefit or such....I was talking to Scott Regan after their set (who I recently met at the time)and the question of who influenced his own wonderful songs came up. I remember very clearly, a slightly soused Scott, repeating over and over---"CHUCK! I am nothing without Chuck! It's ALL because of Chuck!! I'd be NOTHING without Chuck." It was very funny, but I didn't really get it at the time......I thought: WHO the hell is this CHUCK guy?
I didn't begin to know and hadn't heard CBJ until soon after.

What Scott was telling me that night so long ago: it took these 20 years truly understand that exact feeling.
Leigh Kimmelman Posted At 21:21:53 07/12/2001
I met Chuck (and the band) in the mid-80's, while I was doing "in-house" sound at the Warehouse, a nightclub in Rochester. This was a band I had heard about, and knew I had to see. After the gig, I needed a ride home. On the way, the band and I went to Gitsi's for breakfast. We all had corn flakes with our meal.

This night led a to frindship I will always cherish. Thank you Chuck for sharing your gifts.
Jennifer Truman Posted At 21:22:44 07/12/2001
What a tribute to such a great person. Thanks for all the wonderful music!
Peter Posted At 22:09:37 07/12/2001
when's chuck's birthday?
Darryl Frank Posted At 23:28:56 07/12/2001
After learning about Chuck I didn?t know what to say... Living 3000 miles from Rochester it?s hard to keep up with all the news. I worked with CBJ as one of the only traveling sound persons. Many years have past since then, but it still feels like yesterday.
Chuck was one of many different musicians I have had the great pleasure of working with, but he was just so much more than that....
I wish we would of shot the music video for
"Why should I stand up".
Chuck had the vision, when know one else did...
You were so far a head of your time...
I will miss you.... You have brought great joy to me andso many people that didn?t even know you....
until we meet again....
Dan Posted At 00:05:05 07/13/2001
Just count me as another one of the many who feels truly thankful to have experienced Chuck's wonderful music. I think every CBJ show I ever saw made me feel like I had just dropped in on something truly special, and that the rest of the world had no idea what they were missing. We all dug the writing too. Thanks Chuck.
Matt Geldof Posted At 01:19:59 07/13/2001
You have been such a huge influence to our community of musicians. (Blac Ocean, Ampersand, Old Solar). You really took the time to listen to us and what we were trying to say. Your support and encouragement has only been rivaled by your influence musically. We will never forget the joy we got out of attending and dancing at your concerts. You will be forever remembered and revered, an encouragement to us and our futures. We'll miss you Chuck.
Rita Coulter Posted At 01:58:45 07/13/2001
If nobody loves you in heaven
What is this suffering worth?
If nobody loves you in heaven
Then why are we here on this earth?

You gave me wings and showed me how to fly.

I'll see you later, Chuck.

Love, Rita
Russ Sanders Posted At 05:43:15 07/13/2001
I have not seen Chuck since the last time he toured the UK....It was a great tour and I spent the night on the floor in a hotel in London after seeing them in Bath, It was only their second (and last tour of the UK) but both myself and my mate Paul had become good friends. I e-mailed Chuck quite a few times and it was a case of I'll come over and we'll have a few beers......you know the kind of thing, well now it's to late and he will be missed by all for his kind words and his music.

Russ
Worksop, UK
James Campbell Posted At 07:15:11 07/13/2001
Got the news this morning that the Colorblind One has gone... just so sad. Aeons ago I first heard Memphis and A Different Bob when John Peel and Andy Kershaw were playing CBJE on BBC Radio 1. For years I'd been trying to get that stuff, and then finally, a few months ago, a web search turned up the StubDaddy site, and boom there was the Greatest Hits disc in my player, and finally I could catch up on all those songs. I've played it so much on long journeys... although none of my friends can stand it, they're not cool enough I guess :)

So I thought I'd just write a note of condolence, then I came here and read all these tributes from you guys who really knew Chuck. It's very moving. Now I know how much he was loved... We'll just have to play the records more, and smile at the memory.

James
Barbara Cala Greles Posted At 07:20:06 07/13/2001
Chuck came to my mind about a week ago. I hadn't seen him in a long time and I just had one of those spontaneous thoughts and it made me happy. When I heard of his death my heart broke, because Chuck was one of those rare people who make the world a beautiful place by helping you opn your eyes and see what is already there. He was so honest and lacking in artifice, and when you spoke with him you knew he could see only what was absolutely real and good and true about you, and it made you better for knowing him. I loved him, I loved just knowing that he lived among us.
Nicole Loker Posted At 07:45:24 07/13/2001
I first saw Colorblind James Experience at the Grassroots Festival about 7 years ago and absolutely loved the band. They were one of the main reasons we kept going back every year, even though we could see them a lot in Rochester, it was always more exciting down there. A couple of years ago they were playing in the small Cabaret Hall at the festival and put on another great show. At the end, I requested that they play "Picture on A Stone" and after they did, he thanked me for requesting a not so mainstream song. He thanked me! What a wonderful and thoughtful person, he will be greatly missed. My thoughts now are with his family and that they can find the strength to get through this.
The Dude Posted At 08:44:38 07/13/2001
Chuck, you the man!!! I hope you and Elvis are sharing a fried peanut butter sandwich and cranking out some good stuff while we wait to see you all again. Thank you.
Patrick Lowery Posted At 08:56:56 07/13/2001
Chuck Cuminale was a poet in the true sense of the word. He has been an inspiration to me as an artist and as a person. Chuck was one of the great American songwriters and yet was humble and supportive of everyone he came in contact with. To know him was to love him.
Gerard Fisher Posted At 09:21:44 07/13/2001
I met Chuck in Oswego in the mid '70's. I was into the music scene and he was the music scene. I promoted my first concert in 1980 and Chuck was the first person I called to play. He did and it was great. I moved to Rochester in 1990 to promote shows here. Again, Chuck was the first person I called. The CBJ experience played Wednesday nights in the comedy club we had in the basement of Scorgie's...and it was great. Many times over the years Chuck was the first person I called. When it's my time to follow where he's gone, he may well be the first person I call. Thank you Chuck, I'm a better person for having known you and your good ways. God bless you and your family.
Ruby Posted At 09:38:01 07/13/2001
A few weeks ago I was at a party where I knew very few people. Even though I had a really nice time, there came a moment when I sat down on some steps, still in the middle of the party, feeling a little quiet and lonely...just a little...when I became aware of a presence next to me. Chuck had sat down next to me without speaking...we smiled at each other and continued to sit closely, watching the party unfold and hardly saying a word for the next 15 minutes. That's the kind of guy he was...someone who could read between the lines, not sit on the sidelines...and ask nothing in return. We all miss you Chuck.
the Barrys (Rick and cath) Posted At 09:46:45 07/13/2001
We just recently met Chuck and the CbJE and were looking forward to what we hoped would be a long and lovely connection. As fellow avid Dylan fans, we were delighted in the spring of 2000 to discover the annual Dylan birthday bash at Milestones. We went and were awestruck by the long line of performers having their "moment in the sun" with the help of Chuck and the Band. Since we also "do" Dylan in our limited repertoire, we harbored a secret hope of being allowed the priviledge of performing at Bob's 60th this year. We got Chuck's number from Buzzo, called him up and he generously invited us to come to the studio and play our song. We waited while Chuck and the Band worked with countless other artists, making sure that the key was just right, that the backup was what it needed to be. Chuck was the obvious guiding spirit, so patient, so gentle, so accommodating, so determined to let this eclectic bunch shine in their own right and with their own gifts. We were flattered when they felt we could perform "Oh Sister" on our own and give them a "break" in the set, but afterwards we decided that next year we'd ask if we could do a number together. What a precious priviledge that would have been for us! We became instant fans of Chuck and the CbJE and were looking forward especially to this August's Bluegrass Fest in Manhattan Square Park because we saw they were going to be there. We're devastated by the news and saddened that we didn't know Chuck long enough or well enough, but at the same time so very grateful that we had that "one brief shining moment" of being in the same room with the man. What a gentle spirit and creative quiet force; in such a short time he left such an impression on us that we feel an incredible loss. Hopefully the Dylan bash will continue, but essentially honoring Chuck at the same time. What a pair. Of course our thoughts and prayers go out to his entire family and the Band. Thanks for sharing this brilliant humble human being with all of us.
Nate Coogan Posted At 09:54:04 07/13/2001
Colorblind James graciously allowed the Ratkings to play on the same bill with them a couple of times recently. We were humbled. It was a blessing from Rochester's Boddhisatva.
Mark Martin Posted At 10:01:03 07/13/2001
Chuck Cuminale was truly a gift to his friends and his fans. It is really rare to find someone who was so in love with music. As a musician it was reassuring to watch Chuck and realize that he didn't pursue music as a means to an ends. For Chuck music was a journey where it didn't matter so much what your destination was, all that mattered was embracing and enjoying the ride.

Chuck was and still is a guiding force in the music scene in the Rochester area. It is so rare to meet some one as supportive and encouraging as Chuck. I will always remember Chuck as a kind soft-spoken person who always had a good word for you. I will remember Chuck at my close friends wedding singing about Jesus turning water to wine.

I will remember Chuck.
Roberta Campbell Posted At 10:34:45 07/13/2001
I looked at the paper the other day and froze. There was a picture of Chuck Cuminale "Mr.C" to most of the students in our class. Most of you know Chuck the musician but I remember Chuck as the most kindhearted assistant teacher I have ever worked with. We worked together at Hillside Childrens Center about 15 years ago. Chuck would show up with a loaf of French bread and a big chunk of cheese. I would bring bagels. Our 15 students would sit with us as we read the newspaper together. Chuck always had positive guiding words for these kids who had nothing. He would probably remember Tina the best. She sang for us and she always brought a smile to Chucks face. I can't say enough about Chuck. He had such a positive impact on everyone of our students and on me. I will miss him.
Sue Thielking Posted At 10:39:21 07/13/2001
No kindlier gentleman ever walked in through the doors of School of the Arts than Chuck. No one was more unassuming than he. He was quiet and had a lovable disposition. He endeared himself to to all those with whom he came in daily contact, and helped countless students to navigate through the rough and angry waters of life.

Chuck will be missed greatly in our School of the Arts community, and by me personally. To Chuck's widow and gifted children, I would like to extend my boundless sympathies. His passing leaves a void for us all.
Kevin Vicalvi Posted At 10:47:24 07/13/2001
When I heard the news about Chuck's passing it was the kind of shock I got when I heard about John Lennon or Lowell George or BJ Wilson (drummer for Procol Harum). It was the shock of finding out that someone you always thought would be around like air or sunshine was suddenly gone. As a person I knew him only slightly better than I would know a Lennon or a George, as an acquaintance met at the occaisional gig or social gathering. But as an artist I knew him as a true original that showed me a new way of looking at things every time I saw him perform. That was all I needed to know about him, and as a fellow songwriter I admired his ability to mix humor, pathos, social commentary and anything else you care to name seemingly without the slightest effort. His songs imprinted themselves in my memory immediately. The next day I could quote entire lines of his lyics verbatim - the highest complement one can pay to a songwriter. The few performances of Colorblind that I saw were revelations that enriched my spirit. Back then I wondered why Chuck never made the "Big Time", but now I know that long after we who knew him are long gone some one will be hearing one of his songs and chuckling to themselves.
Lynzey Bernstein Posted At 10:49:40 07/13/2001
Chuck is and was a great guy. He cared about everything. He helped me through alot of things.. He was always worried about me and how I was doing... He always talked about how much he loved his kids and his band. Which I personally new nothing about.. But i heard their music and I liked it... Chuck was a wonderful guy and I would do whatever it takes to get him back even tho i no its not possible
Elaine Lambert Posted At 11:11:59 07/13/2001
I remember sitting in high school with Chuck in Man & Society class. It was the first class where the teacher let us sit anywhere. I often sat on the floor next to Chuck, leaning on the wall under the window. I was so touched by his philosophies on life. His incredible gentle spirit was something you could feel.
I love his smile, how he looks you in the eye, and even his eyes are smiling and so attentive.
A couple months ago at a party, I met Jan ~ I knew instantly that she was someone I would like to get to know. As Chuck was getting ready to leave, we were discussing family. I could see the love and joy in his face as he gazed at Jan across the yard, telling me how wonderful she is and sounding awestruck at his fortune of finding her and being together. It made my heart happy to know Chuck had such a wonderful lifemate.
The news of Chuck felt like someone had hit me in the stomach. It does not seem possible. But I know that I'll still see Chuck's smile and feel that energetic peacefulness whenever I think of him.
My heart aches for Jan and the boys. If there is anything I can do......
Bernard Madden Posted At 11:15:30 07/13/2001
Fortune has not smiled upon me, nor has it bothered to learn my name because I never had the pleasure of meeting Chuck or seeing the band live. I first heard Memphis when John Peel played it on the radio and Chuck's songs have become like old friends over the years. He knew what moved and he knew what grooved. For me it was once heard, never forgotten and judging by the tributes here it was once met, never forget. He has made a difference in all our lives.
Goodbye Chuck. You'll always be rockin as fast as you can.
Russ Daykin Posted At 11:29:03 07/13/2001
I remember the first time I saw Colorblind James Ex., I think it was Death Valley boyz at the time, Red Creek,Rochester NY. My brother had wanted to see a nice jazz band in a smoke filled room, Jazz style, we went, having NO idea of what to expect, had not heard of this band before, or their musical style...we were hooked. My brother heard 'Dance Critters', and remarked about how he had heard previously a couple years in California. And the Jazz? they did some of that too... EXACTLY what my brother had in mind at the time.....fitting! The show, the band, we were amazed, smoky Jazz, circus rock, and tons of fun. Subsequently we went to every possible CBJE show for the next few years, Milestones, Jazzberrys, some club underground, that was the best one, the band, and Chuck played anything we yelled out for, we had front row tables, ' A Different Bob' he even did for our enjoyment... we 'fell away' from the shows after awhile, but not the music. My rbother gained family and re-located, thus I lost my colorblind travel companion....My most recent show was the last (2001) Elvis B-day gig at milestones, and I had worn my 'Solid Behind the Times' record release party T-shirt.. I saw Chuck mingling in the crowd, but never approached him to chat, but our eyes caught and he checked the shirt out. I could tell by the look and the nod, that even after the years and poeple, he recognised me from those days of fun. I will miss the opportunity to see him play the 'electric' vibraphone, or whatever that lovely instrument was, or the guitar, and his song, and I will forever cherish the 'Strange Sounds from the Basement' whenever I hear one! I did not know him personally, and therefore cannot remark on that aspect, but I know as a performer, he respected everyone who was a fan, and he enjoyed making us happy... so Chuck, hope you get the chance to play Elvis that version of 'That's Entertainment' and get them critters dancing in the heavens... you will be missed.!
Elaine Heveron Posted At 12:07:05 07/13/2001
My brother Bernie told me about meeting Chuck immediately in 1984; he was duly impressed and had clearly found a new outlet for his music, but more importantly a new friend. I heard them play dozens and dozens of times over the years and certain songs pop into my head still--like 'A Different Bob,' 'Considering a Move to Memphis,' 'Dance Critters.' (with everybody dancing lower and lower to the floor as the music got quieter and quieter till we all rose up again in a fit of high hilarity and pure fun. I was at the very first Dylan party in 85(?)and many others. After awhile, I couldn't take smoke anymore--but if I went into a bar once a year, it was for Dylan night or Elvis night, for the band, for the incredible sense of community that Chuck created. It was really Chuck's birthday--Dylan night. Having that night was one of those ways that Chuck could have that twinkle in his eyes, smile of joy, totally focusing on someone else on his own birthday. Chuck was at my house once. Steve Greene was there. We were listening to a new Van Morrison CD "I think I'll write another love song . . ." Chuck shook his head with that big wonderful smile and said, "Just like that--so smooth." I always meant to give Chuck my 4'x4' Dylan poster from the days I owned record stores in Florida. Never dreamed I would not have the chance. When will I ever learn that life is short. Losing Chuck so suddenly has kept me thinking of nothing but Jan, Jon, Mark, Paul, and everybody I know that loved himHow can we carry on the great love and generous spirit of Chuck? How can we live as if each day could be our last?
Mike Baldwin Posted At 12:55:44 07/13/2001
I moved away from Rochester 10 years ago, and even though it was 9 years since I'd seen saw Chuck & CBJ when they played at my wedding, the news of his passing was still devasting to Lorri and me. I probably saw the band 60 or 70 times in a 10 year period, and every show offered up someting new, something original, something fun. I wasn't exactly into folk or roots music at the time, but his music transcended boundaries or labels. When I asked him to come and be on Rochester Sessions, a show I was hosting at the time, he agreed immediately and soon became our favorite guest. Interviewing Chuck was like talking to an old friend: Comfortable, fun, relaxing. He'd even put me at ease when I wasn't.
After going to 5 years of the Dylan shows, someone spilled the beans to me that Dylan's bithday also coinsided with Chuck's birthday. Then I got it: all those guest vocalists weren't there to pay tribute to Bob, the were there for Chuck. He was that special that everyone wanted to be up with the band to have some of that Colorblind James magic.
In my opinion, Bob had nothing over Chuck: His words were honest, his themes curious, his insight keen. And above all that, he was always accesible. If I wanted to talk about one of his songs, or anything else, he was approachable and always had a warm greeting. He sent me some CDs recently. Even though we haven't seen each other in nearly a decade, he never forgot that his music touched people. I'll never forget how I've been touched by knowing you, Chuck. And there is no doubt in my mind that somebody loves you in heaven.
Peter Nabut Posted At 13:31:40 07/13/2001
They don't dance here in Boston like they do in Rochester. It could be one of the reasons that I've gained all this weight. I can't begin to name the times I danced to Chuck's music and sweat off pounds and cares and the stress of everyday living. What a pleasant surprise to have found a club in this area that not only dances the floor somethin crazy but knew Chuck's tunes.Johnny D's here in Davis Square has had a Colorblind sleeve on their wall of albums for years, placed among great Blues and Jazz luminaries of our time.

Having played at the same clubs for years, and shared many of the same haunts, Chuck and I never talked too much until the day he called me out of the blue to pick a song and join in at Dylan's B-Day bash in 1993. What an honor to be recognized and included by a man of talent and creative energy.

Chuck, I will miss you here on this earth. Thank you for your gifts and your music. Save me a spot on the bandstand.I will think of you every time I get up to shake that thing! Leigh and I are playing again. Do you mind if we cover Dance Critters?
Mary Freed Posted At 14:09:39 07/13/2001
I remember over a decade age, working at Jazzberry's and looking forward to Colorblind James nights. No one's feet could keep still, even with a drink tray in hand. That's something you don't forget. From Mare in Boston, love and thanks to Chuck and the many wonderful people whose lives he brightened.
Lanay DePalma Posted At 18:55:03 07/13/2001
My fondest memories of Chuck go back awhile, when the band had just formed here. I loved going out to see CBJ (the Experience, or The Death Valley Boys). On Weds, I played their first record upon hearing of Chuck's sad passing. Here, 2 days later, my 3-year old son was heard uttering "I'm Persidering, I'm Persidering..." obviously he meant "considering." Thank you, Chuck, for memories & music.
Steve Michener Posted At 19:38:20 07/13/2001
" Men may seem detestable as joint-stock companies and nations, knaves, fools, and murderers there may be; men may have mean and meager faces; but man, in the ideal, is so noble and so sparkling, such a grand and glowing creature, that over any ignominious blemish in him all his fellows should run to throw their costliest robes."

"Death is only a launching into the region of the strange. Untried; it is but the first salutation to the possibilities of the immence Remote, the Wild, the Watery, the Unshored."
-both spoken by Ishmael in Moby ick

Chuck,
I'm grateful to have known you and glad I got to talk to you one last time a couple of months ago. Too bad we never got to form the Moby ick reading group. Thanks for your kindness.
steve piotrowski Posted At 20:39:41 07/13/2001
WELL I WENT TO THE SAME SCHOOL AS CHUCK BUTI DIDN'T MEET HIM UNTIL ABOUT 15 YRS. LATER IN SAN FRANCISCO,A MUTUAL FRIEND GARY BENNET WAS THERE VISITING BRAD FOX AND CHUCK AND AFTER HANGING OUT ALL DAY, CHUCK AND JANET TOOK GARY AND I TO SOME SMALL HOLE-IN-THE-WALL MEXICAN RESTUARANT WITH REALLY GREAT FOOD.HE TALKED ABOUT GOING BACK TO ROCHESTER AND PLAYING MUSIC.I DIDN'T SEE HIM AGAIN TILL I RETURNED.I REMEMBER PLAYING SOFTBALL WITH HIM AND SOME FRIENDS SUNDAYS ON SOUTH AVE.RUNNING INTO HIM WHEREVER- PARTIES,BARS AND OF COURSE HIS CONCERTS.LIKE SO MANY OTHERS HAVE SO ELOQUENTLY PUT IT, HIS PRESENCE IN OUR LIVES WAS A GIFT AS IS THE MUSIC HE MADE WITH SO MANY PEOPLE.YOUR LEGACY LIVES ON IN US ALL
SEEYA IN THE FUTURE
Reb Butler Posted At 21:32:32 07/13/2001
It's evident from the notes on this page that Chuck was, not through design but through a curiousity, willingness to explore and generosity of spirit, a part of many different matrixes. I first met him through music, but not his own. We were both in a tape club, and exchanged several homemade compilations of whatever we were listening to. Chuck's tapes were always eclectic, the unifying elements being surprise, intelligence and emotion. When I heard some Colorblind tunes on other peoples tapes, I began to understand that, for Chuck, there were no musical barriers. As is clear here, there were no human barriers either.

My heart goes out to Chuck's family.
jim reilley Posted At 22:01:52 07/13/2001
chuck cuminale was a gifted singer/songwriter and a warm and caring human being. chuck was very nuturing to us when we began the second incarnation of the new dylans in rochester. he wrote kinder words than he could have about us in the city paper, he was generous in lending us his rehearsal space when we had none, and was always encouraging and supportive to us whenever we would hit a bump in the road. whe he recently visited me in nashville i gave he and jan my $5 tour of underground nashville, and he was like a kid showing genuine interest in every landmark and vignette. others who've taken my same tour have not been should i say as kind. he was frustrated when the meetings i set up for him both times he visited were not turning out the way he wished. i reassured him that i had the same problem when i first hit town. nashville needs time to grow into left of center folks like us i said. chuck's music touched people in a profound way, and yet he marched to his own drummer. as songwriters that is all we can ask for and all we should ever do. goodbye chuck-we will miss you. jim reilley
cdt Posted At 22:23:31 07/13/2001
peace
Gary Secor Posted At 23:12:54 07/13/2001
Colorblind James is a great musician. I found out today a great man was behind the music. The man rocks the xylophone. Thanks for the good times.
David Millians Posted At 01:11:41 07/14/2001
i just got in from being overseas about 3 hours ago. i had heard the news a couple of days ago, but couldn't do anything from thailand but mourn.
for some time now, i've been considering a move to rochester, just so i could so see this strange band led by what appeared to be one very unique person. i first heard (and i know i've typed part of this on my proto webpage, but this is a succinct version) them in 1987, and had to pull over to finish hearing it. soon after purchasing the album, (the 1st one) i wrote the band. not only did i get a very kind reply, i got a free t-shirt. even better was the reply, though. once again, it was warm and very friendly. over the years, i've communicated with chuck, because his music has meant a lot to me, but words can't really say it all. i think the only thing that gives me any comfort is that soon after he read my unapologetically gushing prose about what his music has meant to me, he wrote me a wonderful email thanking me. so at least, although i never got to meet the man, let alone see him perform, (oh, how i envy your rochesterites!) he knew he touched somebody.
i haven't listened to any of his tunes since i got back, since they've always been the one thing i could listen to that will make me happy, and i'm kinda scared. but i've cried during them before, and i'm really sure that in the end i'll be happy once again. thanks, chuck, for a million smiles. and if there's somebody you haven't thanked for being a light for you, do it today.
my deep condolences to his family; i hope my late night ramblings tell you something of what he meant.
Rachel Miller Posted At 06:02:19 07/14/2001
Please post this close to the top if possible. Thanks.
To all the friends of Chuck Cuminale -
In loving memory of Chuck, friends of the family want to create a T-shirt to highlight the best of the wonderful lyrics, with the idea that we want to continue his legacy - todo what he always taught us to do in his unassuming way- be kind to each other.Instead of "What Would Jesus Do", it will be "What Would Chuck Do." All proceeds will benefit the Cuminale Children Education Fund.

The design will include a picture of Chuck - we really liked the one from the website that was used at the memorial service. On the back, we want to list snippets of his lyrics - the ones that promote his message. That's where we need your help.

Please email me with your suggestions, and let me know if you'd be interested in purchasing a T-shirt. The logistics have to be worked out - but we're hoping these will be available in a month or two. In case you're wondering, his wife Janet is all in favor of this idea.
Suzanne Posted At 09:44:32 07/14/2001
Chuck was always the center of calm and serenity in those crazy, chaotic days on Water St. in Oswego at the Lowlife Caffe, Market House Music Hall and Old City Hall. Like the Dalai Lama, Chuck was one of those rare people whose presence on the planet makes us all feel better, happier, inspired. I only heard the sad news today, read it in the Ithaca Journal. Words cannot express my tears today. I am so sorry. My heart goes out to Janet & the boys and the very many people touched by Chuck's poetry of being.
David Posted At 10:37:26 07/14/2001
I only ever saw Colorblind James play once, in the back of a pub in Leeds, England, over 10 years ago. It was a night I'll not forget, and I am sad to think he'll not play again, although it is reassuring to know that there are so many people with fond memories too.

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