Kirk Whalum Blog
Memoirs for my friend
The sad memory is the last time I saw my friend, in Memphis along with George Duke three weeks ago. I hugged him and told he and Regina that Ruby and I were continuing to pray. He was so obviously weak and had lost so much weight. But man that smile! It was like a moonbeam! Make that a sun ray! It was heavenly. And for good reason, Wayman probably had a good idea he wouldn't be here under the sun too much longer. He and Regina have a lovely ranch there in Oklahoma... but nothing compared to the mansion he's in now! I have so many wonderful memories of hanging with Wayman and Jonathan Butler––we toured together as the Rendezvous All Stars. 90% of those memories involve Wayman either clowning, joking, doing impersonations, or just being silly! It was non-stop. And those laughs were like fuel for us on the hard travel days and when the show didn't go like we wanted.
Thanks for posting such a great tribute to Wayman. I had the pleasure of meeting him and will treasure the pictures and cd's I have of him. What a wonderful talent and human being we've lost.
Posted by: Linda Brooks | June 16, 2009 at 03:23 PM
Wayman has left a large imprint on us all. I can remember his first CD till his last. They all moved me in one way or another. I could tell that he was someone special. God did bless him with Talent and personality. But most of all he received Gods gift and use it to it's fullest. May he rest in peace :-)
Posted by: Kelvin Wilson | May 26, 2009 at 04:55 PM
Thank you Kirk for espressing what so many of us have learned about Wayman so earnestly! I had the pleasure of attending that last Smooth Jazz tour when it came to Memphis and is still the best wedding anniversary present I could have ever gave my husband!!
Now, even more so true, is your latest blessing to us more beautiful, Gospel According to Jazz Chapter 3. No words for this except: Blessings !!
Posted by: melissa | May 18, 2009 at 07:06 AM
To God be the Glory. In Waymans life, to God be the Glory. Tears, they have rolled down my face but I know where Wayman is..with the Lord of lords, his Father, his love, his creator, Jesus. I am a fellow brother Bass player and believer. God bless Wayman, and God bless his family.
Posted by: Rodney Jackson | May 17, 2009 at 03:52 AM
I just logged on to http://www.smoothvibes.com/ and it was a huge shock to read about Wayman's transition..
I write from far away, Lagos, Nigeria and yet my heart is so so heavy at this news.
His bass playing and lovely music has blessed me and lifted my days...i have followed his batttle with cancer and prayed along with him...amazed at his spirit and attitude towards it all...
He will be sorely missed...such a great player and a great soul.
So tonight, i will play Sunday Best, The Time is Here and Grateful...though am sad, it is comforting to know Wayman is home with his Lord.
My sincere love and heartfelt sympathy to his family.
Rest in peace - WT!!!
Posted by: Foluwaso Adebobuyi | May 16, 2009 at 04:45 PM
My prayers are with you brother and the Tisdale family..I'll miss his gentle spirit and smile.He was a close friend to me as well.. The Song "Face to Face" has takin on a new meaning.. C U in Heaven my brother..
Posted by: Lord Blak | May 16, 2009 at 11:37 AM
Thanks for sharing this, Kirk! I can't help it, but my eyes tear up from sensing what a great, great person Wayman must have been. I'm glad for everyone, who had the pleasure of crossing paths with him - a privilege I wasn't given, while he was still walking our planet. But I gladly join the grateful, honoring and loving echoes ringing around the planet upon Wayman's moving on to another level of being.
May he find peace and groove on, whereever he's now.
Posted by: Werner Nieke | May 16, 2009 at 08:33 AM
A fitting note of WT's character!!
Posted by: George | May 16, 2009 at 06:11 AM
God bless and be with Wayman' s family, you Kirk and Ruby, his dear friends. I was with you both in 08 and 09 on the cruise, and I could see the brotherhood you gentlemen shared. I was so sad to hear of his passing. He was a beautiful man. God be praised for allowing us to have him in our lives.
Posted by: Maddie Martinez | May 16, 2009 at 01:53 AM
This is a beautiful memory. He will be missed. But I share your joy in knowing that he is out of pain and free from suffering. My continual prayers are with the family. Thanks for sharing Kirk.
Posted by: Dynna Wells | May 16, 2009 at 12:47 AM