Brad Payne

We were deeply saddened to hear today that Brad Payne passed away Wednesday the 17th due to complications from pneumonia. From our first fortunate encounter on a Sunday morning to traveling explicitly to St. Augustine just to watch him perform, we loved hearing his voice and talking about his love of dogs. As a musician, we were such fans that Brad was the initial MyJoog artist we profiled on this blog. Here is the news as reported by Old City Music News:

"It is with a very heavy heart that I begin this week’s Music News by sharing some very sad news with you. Another bright star in St. Augustine’s music community has flickered out with the untimely passing of BRAD PAYNE this past Wednesday, December 17th. I am still reeling from the news of this terrible loss. Brad was an amazing talent – singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, recording guru – a true artist in the purest sense of the word. He leaves behind an impressive body of work, created at thousands of live performances and in his Gypsy Moon Studios. He also leaves behind a loving family – his parents, a sister, two children and two grandchildren - and many friends, as well as legions of fans who I know will miss him deeply. I am fortunate to have had Brad as a friend, as well as a collaborator on a number of projects over the years. In addition to his musical gifts, Brad had an extraordinary understanding off all things technical. I will miss his quick wit, kind heart, and incredible hair : ), not to mention his remarkable talent. Most of all, I will miss his true gypsy spirit, perfectly articulated in his personal motto, “Have guitar, will travel.” Your travels have now taken you from this world, my friend, and onto the next . . . I feel certain your new venue will gently welcome you into its peaceful and loving embrace."

We will miss Brad tremendously.