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I could write volumes about Kellie Lartigue and still not scratch the surface of who she was. We were friends for over 21 years. She took me to places and showed me things that I would have never braved myself. She giggled in the face of danger and could disarm hostility in an instant. She will leave a lasting impression on all who knew her. And her work will continue to make the world a better place. The guest book here has some great memories of Kellie.

Blessed are the peace makers.

Last Friday, she was traveling with her family from Mali to Senegal when a tire blew, causing the car to roll. She was thrown from the car and killed instantly. Her husband and 3 little boys were unharmed, physically at least.

Hours after hearing the news, her parents in Memphis received a bouquet of flowers from Kellie herself. Two days later, her Christmas presents arrived as if to say, “I’m still here!” And she will keep showing up, as she always does, to make our lives a little bit brighter. Even if our vision is blurred by tears.

*Update* After some x-rays, it was found that Karim did suffer some spinal fractures and he and the boys will be sticking around in Atlanta for the next few weeks. The good news is that he can be treated here before heading back to Mali and many people have opened their homes to them. There are a lot of kind people here and it is heartwarming to see the depth of support.

Learn about the Kellie Lartigue Memorial Fund.

Having toured a good part of this country playing music, I am a firm believer that music changes people and can be mind altering. On an personal level, I have written songs that whip up memories and emotions much like an unforgettable smell or an old photograph. If it weren’t for my guitar, my life would be much different today.

Having said that, I found this video to be very gripping and powerful - and I don’t even like opera.