I’d like to pay tribute to a true friend and musical brother Tim O’Brien, who passed away yesterday morning. Tim overcame many obstacles in his life and recently received his PhD. in Black History from the University of Houston. He also just finished the definitive book on Houston Blues giant Lightnin’ Hopkins that will be published soon. Keep an eye on this website for updates as to when it will be published.

Tim was also a serious political and social activist, both locally and globally. He fought against sweatshop labor and helped to get Penn State to participate in Fair Trade practices. Tim was also seriously involved in the struggles of the Houston Black community as I was able to observe when I visited him this Fall. But there was always time for music and on that visit we made a trip to a funky little Gulf Coast bar to see Johnny Winter play a kick ass show of Texas & Louisiana Blues.

His drive & spirit will be sorely missed by all his musical and activist brothers. He is survived by his wife Kyongmi, daughter Yuna and brother Chris to whom we send all of our love and sympathy.

Hope your hangin’ with Po’ Lightnin’ right now my friend!