SAYING GOODBYE TO THE BANDS GREATEST INSPIRATION
November 11, 2014
It is with a heavy heart that we say goodbye to my grandfather, Fortune Jean Giordano – the man who’s stories of war and love gave us the beginnings of this band. At 89 years of age, he survived the Nazi Occupation of France, endured combat, moved across the world to farm in Florida with his uncle, found love, married, raised a daughter, had three grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren, and touched so many of the lives around him in countless ways. He died peacefully, and well cared for, in his home, surrounded by my grandmother, my mother and me. We will continue to honor his life and his story with our songs. But, man, he will be missed.
What a gift he gave me. And what a wonderful journey this continues to be – and you all are such a huge part of it! You all have helped in so many ways to continue his story – his legacy. It’s so beautiful and I’m so grateful to you all.
You are in my mind and my heart today. I’m understanding, more than any day before, how beautiful this whole thing is. He gave me his story and asked me to write it. I had the clarity and good fortune to stumble upon these songs. I have a beautiful and talented group of musical minds in my corner to bring this music to life as a band. And we have you, the listeners and supporters to help us carry all this forward. And my grandfather got to see all this before he said goodbye. He’s seen his story spread, inspiring, uplifting and entertaining people across the world. What a cool thing!
I’m sad. But, I know what a celebration his entire life was. So, to that I raise a glass, as he would. Tchin! Tchin!
Adieu, Gramps. Rest well.
Ben
