The world of music media has lost one of its own, and a good one.It is with great sadness that we announce american blues scene chief editor JD NashThe long-term illness has led to him being hospitalized several times since early December. Surrounded by family and loved ones, he passed away on July 5 at the age of 61.
JD has imparted countless creative approaches and ideas during his long tenure, such as his weekly column as well as numerous list articles that are both the art of the written word and the successful extension of ABSaudience. Album reviews, in particular, are a different part of the brain, a talent he does have.
Writing under the pseudonym JD Nash, former Blues Influence radio host Rev. Andrew Richard Mader ponders music on a deeply human level. We bonded over our love of Elton John, resonators and all things country – from Jimmy Rogers to Nancy Griffith.We are also united by our core mission of supporting underrepresented artists, which I am delighted to witness ABS Inspire enthusiasm for him.
JD’s first job in the music industry was as an apprentice in the promotions department of KDKB: a free-form FM station that played rock, soul, jazz, country, blues, and even comedy. When it comes to comedy, he’s really funny. Especially in the face of the difficult blows that life often encounters.
From the cotton fields in Arizona, to naval communications around the world, to radio stations and nightclub DJ booths across the country, for over 30 years his life has been colorful and full of purpose. I know a wife Renee; tons of children, stepchildren, grandchildren, nieces and nephews; and many others would agree.
He is a published poet and a Native-E award winning songwriter. As a musician/singer, he changed his name to JD Nash and played with his Topeka-based band, Red Circle, from 2007-2010. He often speaks about the historical trauma that affects Native American tribes and individuals to this day, which is reflected in his music. He also spends a lot of time planning auctions and various fundraising events to raise money for Toys for Tots.
We can all learn a thing or two about true indiscriminate kindness from JD. But for him, it’s a superpower. These things keep reminding me that we are destined to embark on this journey called “The Journey”. ABS Together. There’s a reason I always turn to him and his hard-earned wisdom—for input on my writing, advice on how to approach a situation, and more. There’s a reason the day-to-day operations are right for him, and it’s my heart and soul every single day we work together. There’s a reason we message each other all night just to say silly things like “Roberta Flack follows us on Twitter.”
Wondering what I will miss dearly? News on Sunday night will quickly update each other on what we are going to do in the coming week. JD, today happens to be Sunday, and tonight “HUZZAH!” is for you.
I met JD in New Orleans from our dear friend Matt Marshall, founder/publisher of JD. american blues scene, to get married. Matt’s wife, Jesse, said, “Oh, you’re gonna love JD. He’s a big teddy bear.” Truer words were never spoken. It’s been a magical weekend of food, music, love and laughter. I will always cherish this memory, and I will always miss and love my dear friend, JD, my essay partner.
