Music is often a time machine, a magical transport that can instantly take our minds and hearts to places we cherish in our memories and souls.
Al Hurricane, Jr. and his family have created many songs over the decades that have transported me back to those moments in my grandmother’s tiny kitchen in San Jose or in the passenger seat of my grandfather’s blue troca as we rode on dirt roads around the rancho.
As I sat on my couch last night and saw the image of Al Hurricane, Jr.’s portrait with his birth and death year come up on my feed, I felt loss and sadness.
When artists pass, they take with them a piece of us because their art and music make us human and give us core memories.
Many years ago when I worked as a reporter in Albuquerque, I’d run into Al Hurricane, Jr. from time to time and he’d always be very kind and welcoming with that big smile.
One time at the Q Bar in Albuquerque, he was standing there at the bar and I went up to him and I expressed with the most sincerity I could muster how much his music had impacted not only me but also New Mexico.
I’m sure he’s heard it many times before.
Al Hurricane, Jr., like his father, was a New Mexico legend, an icon who was a key figure in the state’s music scene and heritage.
Today I will listen to his songs and be thankful for artists like him who make music so we can feel happiness, create memories and make sense of loss.
JEREMY JOJOLA 