Gone, But Not Forgotten...
Today I was reading an old paper-based jazz newsletter that I had in storage, when I came across a review of an album by “Fingers Wombat.”
The review was written in July 1982, pre-Internet.
Evidently, Fingers’ album was quite a hit in certain circles back in 1982:
“Fingers Wombat, who, through his exploration of the higher harmonics of etheric energy, has freed the astral body of jazz to travel to other planes.”
“Wombat illustrates the triumph of the American dream.”
“His music is a searing outcry, the heartfelt protest of the downtrodden masses against the running dogs of gangster capitalism.”
Yet, there’s not a thing about “Fingers Wombat” on the Internet; nothing, nada. The only thing I can find on Google is a Wombat Finger Puppet! (see the attached picture).
Fingers and his album are no more, and that makes me sad.
I began to wonder how many things and people from before the Internet are now gone and forgotten.
As I settle into my senior years (I’m a spry 71-year-old), I have begun to ask myself: What is my legacy? What good will I leave behind for others to benefit from?
Wanting to leave a legacy is one of my primary motivations for starting my Substack and building a community to help bootstrapping startup founders become successful.
When I leave this world, I’m hoping that I’ll be “gone, but not forgotten.”
It’s never too early to start thinking about the legacy you’re going to leave behind. Make it a good one; something you’re proud of.
Oh, and just maybe the next time someone searches for “Fingers Wombat” on Google, this post will show up, reminding the world that this man once existed and created beautiful music.