Monday, September 10, 2007

Hughie Thomasson 1952-2007

Left: The Outlaws, aka "the Florida Guitar Army"--Thomasson is second from left. Photo from TeddWebb.com.

I have just learned that the distinctively southern, ringing guitar of Hughie Thomasson was forever silenced last night. The former guitarist for the Outlaws, and author of the majestic rock anthem, Green Grass and High Tides, is gone. He died of a heart attack late last night. Thomasson also wrote the popular There Goes Another Love Song, which perfectly sums up the southern-fried rock sound of the 70s.

Thomasson also played with Lynyrd Skynyrd and often jammed with our local Marshall Tucker Band, with whom the Outlaws frequently toured.

With great sadness, we must announce the passing of our friend, Hughie Thomasson. Hughie died unexpectedly late Sunday night of an apparent heart attack at his home in Brooksville, Florida.

From www.outlawsmusic.com

For more southern rock history, see the invaluable Down South Jukin.

In a place you only dream of
where your soul is always free
Silver stages, golden curtains filled my head plain as could be
As a rainbow grew around the sun,
all the stars I've loved who died
Came from somewhere beyond the scene you see,
these lovely people played just for me.


(from Green Grass and High Tides)

Rest in peace, Hughie.