The Passing of Benjamin Bossi
I learned about the passing of Benjamin Bossi on Facebook, Tuesday, December 13, 2022. Ben was 69 years old. Apparently, his death was due to complications from early onset Alzheimer’s disease. After reading that he had departed this world, I started watching old Romeo Void videos on YouTube. In the mix was Romeo Void Bands Reunited . Watching it made me teary-eyed. Why? Not because of his passing, but because of his hearing loss. Yes, Ben Bossi’s hearing loss brought tears to my eyes. Can you imagine what it must be like to be a super talented sax player and have to quit playing forever, while in your prime?
There really aren’t any words that can describe Ben and how special he was as well as a video of him live on stage can. I saw him play with Romeo Void several times, and possibly with Translator at least once. Here is a video of what it was like back in those days.
I was playing tenor sax in SF during the eighties and I met Benjamin through Deborah's husband Paul K. I was supposed to take some sax lessons from him, but never did for various reasons that I can't remember now. Benjamin knew how to use the high partials, or "fake notes" as they are called, and I was always in awe of that. He was a huge inspiration to me as a fellow sax player and I regret that we didn't actually get to work together, but I will cherish the connection nevertheless. I became a better sax player (and artist) by trying to imitate his sound (Otto Link metal mouthpiece), etc.
Rock ON Ben, where ever you are!
--Symon Michael
first chair saxophone
The Tibetan Boyscouts
I agree. In a way, it reminds me of an old saying: "There is nothing sadder than a bass player alone without a band."