Let There Be Death [Vol. III]

And so to the final category of the Let There Be Death series – a sideways glance at the making and breaking of the musical legacy.

We’ve loitered in the graveyard long enough to know that not even death can rescue a career from catastrophic implosion. This installment thus features all those who reached the top but carried on climbing, only to realise that the only way was down. These are the undeniably once-great musicians who, hostage to their hyperactive creative egos, lingered long enough to outlive their genius.

Elvis Presley

The story of Elvis is perhaps that of the most infamous fall from grace(land) in music history. As one journalist noted shortly before his death, he had become a “grotesque caricature of his sleek, energetic former self”, feeding the popular myth that the King had entered himself into an Elvis lookalike competition only to come a disappointing 3rd.

Elvis – In The Ghetto (Live)

Arthur Lee

You know it’s gone downhill when you end up fronting your own tribute band. First came whimsical 60’s psychedelic pop outfit Love, founded by Arthur Lee. Then the band split, Lee spent time in jail and a tribute band emerged. Lee then joined the tribute band, which became known as “Love with Arthur Lee”. Then he died, but “Love without Arthur Lee” remain.

Tenacious D – Tribute

Miles Davis

One could claim that he was a genius. He could claim that he revolutionized music 4 or 5 times. One could claim that he is responsible for the career of a dozen jazz giants. One could claim that his autobiography is a pretty interesting read. One could claim that Kind of Blue is the best record of all time. One could claim that it takes a true musician to expand his spectrum and reorientate himself in new emerging fields of music. One could also say that these new fields of music were not his cup of tea and stopping a little sooner would have been the best for everyone. Absolutely everyone.

Chet Baker – Everytime we say goodbye

James Brown

James Brown was one of the greatest artists of the 20th century. But do you have some of his latest records at home? Like “The Merry Christmas Album”. And that is why.

Oasis – Merry Christmas Everybody

Bob Dylan

Question: “How do you like Dylan’s radio show?”
Answer: “Bob Dylan! Is he still alive?” Well, he is.

Bryan Adams – Everything I Do, I Do It For You

Michael Jackson

Michael was an example to all of us. His guidance was a matter of compassion, wisdom and giving. “Sharing is caring”, he once told me in one of our many emotional meetings. I admit that I was lost, that I was desperately looking for something meaningful in my life. A sense. A higher order of some kind. Then Michael came and blessed me with his teachings:
Dance. Make the good move. Love everyone. Don’t hold back. It’s gonna be alright. We are only animals. Thank you, Michael. Thank you…

Michael Jackson – I’ll Be There

Illustrations by Laura Weider.

For the very last time, we know this list is 100% subjective, and therefore does not pretend to be either correct or conclusive. If you’ve got any better ideas, don’t hesitate to keep them to yourself. Thanks for understanding. Peace and Love. xxx