RIP Mark Linkous: Going Back To Sparklehorse Live 2007

I was instantly sent back to February 2007 when I heard the news the Mark Linkous had died. Sudden deaths and suicides of musicians we’ve enjoyed tend to send us reeling, especially if their live show once helped you escape, mourn and cope.

I’d like to take a moment to remember Linkous, who fronted Sparklehorse, by traveling back to February 21st 2007. First, I’d like to share our review of their Chicago show and pass along this Popmatters article that pays tribute to his work and career.

It’s always a sad day when I have to do posts like this.  But I also believe that doing so is a key part of the mourning process that we shouldn’t avoid or neglect as fans or artists.

Whether you knew Linkous personally, loved his music, or had your life changed during a Sparklehorse show, we can all benefit by reflecting on some of the great memories he left behind for us to enjoy.

Given the nature of Linkous’s death, I also know that this time of year can be one of the hardest times for those who struggle with depression and mental illness.  I’ve had four friends in the last few years, take their lives during this time, so I know it can be just as hard for those of us left behind. And whenever I hear about a suicide like Linkous’s all those thoughts and feelings about my friends come rushing back with a vengeance.

And it’s sort of strange how things work, too. Because I remember how that Sparklehorse show helped me cope back in 2007. It was just a few days after the death of one of my friends and I needed a cathartic escape. And the concert provided just what I needed at that time.

That said, I’d like to share with you three articles I’ve written on musicians, suicide and the importance of live music mourning. I hope you find them helpful and please feel free to ask me any questions about them. I’m more than willing to talk about why I wrote them and how they helped me work through the deaths of my friends.

Closer Still: Reflections on Joy Division

Suicide Catharsis: A First Note

Experiencing, Grief, Joy and Community in Live Music

Your Thoughts?

How do you feel about revisiting a concert memory of an artist who’s no longer with us.

How do your favorite concert memories help you mourn?