New Dodge Lounge 3/31/12 Yesterday, the big venue in the sky gained one more true rock and roller. Robert Mulrooney, better known as Bootsey X, Bob, & the Pusherman of Love, passed away after a long struggle with brain cancer. Though this was far from unexpected, it doesn't make the blow any less painful.
I never knew Bob in his prime, but from the stories I've heard, videos I've seen, and how he acted and performed in spite of his condition, he was one hell of a man.
I never knew Bob in his prime, but from the stories I've heard, videos I've seen, and how he acted and performed in spite of his condition, he was one hell of a man.
With Mary Cobra 3/31/12 I saw Bootsey play only twice. Even though he wasn't feeling 100%, he gave each show his all, working past his illness to consistently impress the audience. I have never seen so much passion and sheer desire to perform. Even when he had to sit down or take a break, he continued to push himself to the limits for the sake of his performance, never disappointing and always leaving the crowd in a musical frenzy.
The Loving Touch 6/29/13 Bob was more than just a great stage presence and musician, though. He was kind, always willing to help, and a lot of fun to talk to. He helped me write a paper for one of my college classes by answering some interview questions. I learned a lot about him, like how he started playing music at age 11 and how much he appreciated all of his friends that came to see him play. He told me that one of his favorite memories, regarding music, was his European tour with Nathaniel Mayer in 2007, and how "it was hard but totally worth it." My favorite quote of all, though, was about his future plans: "My goals are to keep recording and playing, despite my illness."
Constantly an inspiration and paragon of strength, Robert Mulrooney is definitely going to be missed in our music scene and in our lives. My heart goes out to everyone who knew and loved him.
For some of Bob's live performances, check out Bootsey X & the Lovemasters.
The following images are from the Painted Lady in Hamtramck, MI 9/2/12.
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