In 2004 the Annie Minogue Band got the wonderful opportunity to share the stage with the incredibly talented Chris Whitley. I remember feeling quite excited but also extremely nervous when we were first asked to be his opening act on some dates for his northeast tour.

Chris Whitley was and is one of my favorite musicians of all time and an inspiration to me as a songwriter and singer. I have all of his CD's and listen to them almost everyday. I remember thinking am I good enough...are WE good enough to share the same stage with this man? It was very intimidating to say the least. Chris was the real deal so to play on stage with him meant you better have your shit together!

I had heard stories that Chris was an extremely shy and private person so I didn't really think that we would have much contact or communication with him while out on the road. What I was pleasantly surprised to find out though (through the limited time we were able to hang out with him) was a man who was warm, funny and passionate especially when it came to music.

I remember one night after we had just finished our set heading back to the dressing room to find Chris clapping and encouraging us to do an encore since the audience was requesting one. I must have hesitated a bit and said something like "are you sure you wouldn't mind?" and he said quick as a flash "one thing I've learned over the years is that you never turn down an encore when the crowd is yelling for more." He even let my guitar player use his stomp box for that last song which I knew he treasured.

Today I was shocked and saddened (like the rest of the world) to learn of Chris' passing. A true important musical figure is now gone. The Annie Minogue Band sends their deepest sympathies to Chris' family, friends and fans and would like to thank him for allowing us to be part of his musical journey however brief a time it was. I will treasure that experience always.