Singer, poet, songwriter James Durst left his songs to us last week, he died in a tragic accident. At a dinner with friends, he aspirated on food and before the emergency medical team could get to him, the lack of oxygen had fatally injured his brain. On life support for more than a week, he died peacefully early Friday, April 1.
News that he’d died some days before had circulated, and it would be just like James to be entertained by the opportunity to say, “Rumors of my demise have been greatly exaggerated.” He left us on April Fools day, which I’m guessing he would enjoy being his last humorous gesture.
A celebration of his life is planned for the afternoon of Saturday, May 28th (Memorial Day weekend) in White Plains NY. All are invited, and it will no doubt be a great gathering of musicians and party. Check back here, or on the James Durst Facebook page, for more details as they are settled. We will be creating a Facebook Event page soon. Please register there that you plan to attend, so we might know how many to expect.
In peace, James’ long time friend, Jim Scott
I met James in San Antonio in 1980 and bought his album Songsmith. I have been singing it ever since. He was so kind in 2003 I wrote him and ask where i could purchase a new copy. He replied and said he thought he might be able to find one in his sisters garage. He did and sent it to me. He was the most generous person I’ve ever met. God bless James. His music lives on.
Carl Atkins.
James Durst played My club, Poor David’s Pub in Dallas, several times. I also knew him through the Kerrville Folk Festival. A gentle soul he was, and a good songwriter, picker and singer. Tonight for some reason his named came to mind and I googled him only to find he had died 3 years ago. Although we were not close, he was considered a friend.
Rest well my friend and speak on my behalf on the other side.