LAST weekend it was announced that after a long battle with health problems Phil, the younger of the Everly brothers, had died at the age of 74 pulmonary disease, possibly caused from a lifetime of smoking.

Many say that the pinnacle of success is when artists are know only by their christian names, and Don and Phil were a prime example. On a personal note The Everlys, along with Buddy Holly, were certainly my musical heroes.

Through songs like Wake Up Little Suzie, Bye Bye Love, Cathy’s Clown, All I Have To Do Is Dream and Walk Right Back I chanted and played my way through the Everly Brothers catalogue, learning how to appreciate harmony and melody in music.

After an acrimonious split, during the early 1970s, British guitarist Albert Lee talked them into a reunion concert at London’s Albert Hall in 1983.

They entertained for a further 25 years. The world of music has lost a legendary musical hero who grew up as a country boy and gave the world a musical legacy.

His contribution will never be forgotten.