Many of us in the local lindy hop, jazz, and circus scenes are devastated by sudden death of local musician Rob Reich last week. Rob was a multi-instrumentalist, composer, and bandleader who was well-loved by so many in the Bay Area.
I didn’t know Rob well, but I always loved listening and dancing to his music. He had a quirky, offbeat personality, which often came through in his music and performances. He was born to be a circus bandleader, which he was for many years with Circus Bella.
I had the privilege of performing for an album release party from his band a few years ago in Berkeley. While my actual performance does not appear to be recorded anywhere, I did find this footage of me jamming to the song I ended up performing to. It was the very apropos tune “How to Be a Weirdo.”
While I am not 100% happy with my dancing here, I decided to share it because I feel like that is what he would have wanted. To be brave and let all your quirks, missteps, and foibles out into the world. That’s what Rob taught me.
I’m holding his family and loved ones in the light right now. I can not imagine their suffering.
You will be missed, Rob.
