Earl Green

It is with great sadness that I have to relate the passing of Louis Borenius; husband, father, friend, and musician. Louis died of heart failure in Salisbury Hospital early last week. The news has come as a deep shock to all who knew him.

Some of you will have enjoyed performances by The Blackjacks over the years. Whether it was at the UK national blues festival, other nationwide venues, Ain’t Nothin’ But in London’s Soho, or locally here in Brighton & Hove, Louis was an integral and vital figure. And not just with the Blackjacks. He also drummed or played vibraphone for Coup d’Etat, Big Chief, Bop Brothers and countless other top jazz, blues and rock ensembles. Indeed Louis’ pedigree extends right back to the early jazz days of Ronnie Scotts and the UK’s emerging live music scene. You mention them, he’s played with them.

Today’s service was a beautiful testament to one of life’s rarest gentlemen, intellectuals, humanitarians and gifted music makers. Over 200 assembled to pay their respects. And those who couldn’t join the funeral sent their condolences or turned out for the evening’s wake at Brighton’s Komedia. As one friend put it so perfectly, Louis knew so many high profile musicians, yet he always remained wonderfully grounded. (more…)