Remembering the Legends

After Howard began the show playing John Lennon’s “(Just Like) Starting Over,” he pointed out that he couldn’t believe some listeners criticized him for talking about the anniversary of John’s death this past week.

Howard mentioned that John’s music meant so much to him growing up that there were times it was the only friend he had and that he knew many other people felt the same way. Howard then played “In My Life,” “Strawberry Fields Forever” as well John’s live version of “Mother,” which Howard said was one of his favorite songs of all time.

Howard went on to note that John was such an important figure in the world that he not only changed the way people dressed, but also the way they thought about social issues. Given this, Howard again said that John was a hero to him, and that talking about his life was justified.

Howard also commented that another of his influences, Richard Pryor, died over the weekend. Artie noted that while he felt George Carlin was the most prolific comedian ever, Richard was the best when it came to honesty and telling stories.

Howard agreed with Artie, adding that, as difficult as it was to hear about Richard’s drug abuse, his willingness to address the subject ultimately taught everyone that life can be an open book. Howard went on to say that people interested in seeing and hearing how funny Richard was should watch “Live in Concert.”