Jeffrey Foskett/Kokomo (1988) 12/12/23

Just a few days ago, we said goodbye and paid tribute to Paul McCartney's long-time "Wings" man, Denny Laine. who passed away at age 79.

Today, we bid a sad goodbye and pay tribute to a long time touring member of the Beach Boys, as well as the Brian Wilson Band.

You may not know the name Jeffrey Foskett, but his nickname was "The Vice Principal of the Beach Boys," and for good reason. He was also the very first member chosen for Brian's touring band when he went solo.

Jefferey passed away yesterday at 67, a victim anaplastic thyroid cancer.

Jeffrey's Wikipedia page tells the story of how his meet-cute with Brian led to a career that showcased his talent as a multi-instrumentalist and a vocalist whose clear falsetto voice was used extensively in concert after Carl Wilson passed away, and Brian could no longer hit the high notes: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeffrey_Foskett

In addition, Jeffrey also worked with many other legendary artists...including Roy Orbison, The Every Brothers, Chicago,, Heart, America, Eric Clapton. Jeff Beck, and Ringo Starr...just to name a few.

In tribute, I present to you a song that every Beach Boys fan knows--and their "Great Comeback Song (and #1 hit) from 1988: "Kokomo" (from the Tom Cruise movie, "Cocktail.")

Jeffrey plays guitar and sings harmony on the song, but if you'd like to hear his smooth falsetto on lead, I've also posted a link to him singing "Don't Worry Baby" with Brian's Band.

Note: I'll highlight "Kokomo" more in depth at later date.

R.I P. Jeffrey Foskett. May you ride the perfect wave forever.

"Kokomo:" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xmr8bEuyQjA

"Don't Worry Baby:" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AkuVye9HZXY

Tomorrow: Tomorrow: Tom & Stevie...or was it Stevie & Tom?