Jimmy Norman, after a long illness, died on Nov. 8 in New York City. When he left the Coasters after 30 years of performing, Jimmy was in poor health for over a decade. However, during this period, he recorded Little Pieces in 2004 and The Way I See It earlier this year. Those two records, produced by Kerryn Tolhurst, were among Jimmy’s best work.
In addition to be a prolific performer, a great storyteller and a master musician, Jimmy was an old school songwriter from Nashville. He combined the best of soul and R&B, along with country and blues, and turned into a music of his own. He schooled a young Bob Marley, who at the time wanted to be an R&B singer, and was close friends with Jimi Hendrix. He played with a who’s who or rock n’ roll.
Jimmy had substantial help over the past decade from the Jazz Foundation of America, who aided him with medical care and housing when he could no longer work. Jimmy’s last public appearance was for the Jazz Foundation at their Loft Party on Oct. 29, as seen in the picture below. His final public performance was singing Time is on My Side, a song he co-wrote but received no money for.
Rest in Peace, Jimmy Norman
This is my Grampa. The greatest Grampa in the world. He stuck by my side through the worst in my life and always encouraged me to be my best no matter what. He and I spent a lovely evening the night before he died and I know he went in peace. His family was safe, secure, happy. His job here was not done but the Lord saw fit to bring him home.
I know he's up there jamming with Peter Tosh, Bob Marley, Jimi Hendrix and the rest of his crew.
Bring the house down Grampa!!! We can hear you all the way down here :)
Posted by: Janell Johnson-Dash | 12/16/2011 at 03:06 PM
Jimmy was an unbelievably talented person who, quite unfortunately, didn't receive his fair share of recognition or royalties. He was so gentle and his voice was so soulful and he left a lasting impression on me.
Love you Jimmy. Heaven has another star...
Posted by: MMiller | 11/09/2011 at 10:01 AM