Ian Dury,
12th May 1942 - 27th March 2000

It is with deep regret we announce the death of Ian Dury on 27th March 2000.

These are the earlier messages of condolence. If you wish to return to the current messages to add your own please click here.

Your music always makes me laugh and the live gigs were fantastic. This is the saddest news . The music lives on !!
Peter Dean-Osgood <peter.dean-osgood@rbi.co.uk>
London, UK -

"Died before we'd done much talking", God bless Ian Dury. I never do drugs, as it happens, but Sex and Rock and Roll - Ian you wrote the book.........and the music to go with it!
Ken Doerr <ken.doerr@btinternet.com>
Chester, UK -

I remember watching the video for 'Hit me with your rhythm stick', in the late 70's. I was captivated by Ian. His pictures adorned my bedroom walls (like you do at 13 years old), I played New Boots & Panties constantly. Last year I was ecstatic to discover that I could buy 'The best of Ian Dury & the Blockheads' cd (I moved to Australia from the uk 7years ago, and had left all my record collection behind. When I heard about Ian having cancer, I was shocked and very upset. Ian evoked these sorts of emotions in people who hadn't even met him, but cared so much about him. What a Waste, but then I think of Reasons to Be Cheerful, and I think of Ian smiling up there and banging away with his rhythm stick - he was so sexy in that video. Thank you for making me realise that there is no use to worrying about things that you can't do anything about. God bless you and thank you for being a very fond memory of the '70s, punk and adolescence.vicki
vicki willson <frybtmtl@mullum.com.au>
ballina,nsw, Australia -

In the deserts of Sudan, and in the gardens of Japan... wherever you are Ian, God bless mate. We'll bloody miss you.
Kev H
Durham, UK -

Reasons to be Tearful indeed. Thank you Ian for the music and the humour. Thank you for making me think. I'm so sad.
Michael Willmets <maryt@magma.ca>
Ottawa, Canada -

If you only knew just how many fans you had here in Jersey. And we all agree: THERE AIN'T HALF BEEN SOME CLEVER BASTARDS!!!
Henry Ryan <hsryan@hotmail.com>
NJ, USA -

sorry your gone mate,
hope you find your new boots and panties.
excellent sounds!!!!
max & jackie <zazu@escape.ca>
winnipeg, CANADA -

ME AND MY TWO BROTHERS FIRST HEARD IAN IN 78,SINCE THEN WE HAVE BEEN BIG FANS.I WENT OUT AND BROUGHT ALL OFF HIS BACK CATALOGUE,LOVED EVERYTHING HE AND THE BLOCKHEADS RECORDED{A REAL TIGHT BAND,R.I.P.CHARLIE CHARLES}.WE KNOW ALL THE WORDS FROM HIS SONGS AND WHEN AS A 14 YEAR OLD SCHOOL BOY MY MUSIS TEACHER INSTRUCTED EVERYONE TO BRING IN A PIECE OF MUSIC FOR CLASS DICUSSION I BROUHT IN 'NEW BOOTS...AND PLAYED PLAISTOW PATRICIA WILL YOU CAN IMAGINE THE REACTION FOR THE CLASS LET ALONE THE TEACHER.ME AND MY TWO BROTHERS GOT A LOT OF STICK FROM CERTAIN QUATERS BECAUSE WE LISTEN TO THE MUSIC OF IAN,AND BEING BLACK CERTAIN PEOPLE THOUGHT WE SHOULD BE LISTENIN TO REGGAE OR SOUL WHICH WE DID,BUT AS FAR AS WE WERE CONCERNED IAN DURY AND THE BLOCKHEADS MUSIC HAD EVERYTHING,ROCK,PUNK,ROCK'N'ROLL,JAZZ,FUNK.........SO I'II JUST LIKE TO SAY THANKS FOR THE MUSIC AND R.I.P.IAN ANY OTHER LIKE THINKING FAN PLEASE GIVE US A E-MAIL R.I.P.BIG TOM(ANOTHER BLACK GUY WHO LIKED IAN AND WHO PASSED AWAY ON XMAS DAY AGED 37
NORMAN LANGLEY <ANNAFORSLING @SKYNOW.NET>
LONDON, UK -

Ian was the right dose of clever lunacy at the right time.
A brilliant lyricist, and an inspiring bloke.
"He didn't paint the Mona Lisa,
that was some Italian geezer."
Peter Quayle <edukator@hotmail.com>
Perth, Australia -

I was lucky enough to have heard "Reasons" while browsing a local used record shop in the late 70's, bought it, and everything I could get my hands on ever since .... Ian was a wonderful reason to be cheerful...One Clevor Bastard

Kevin Burns <burnsk@tcimet.net>
Okemos, Mi -

With sadness I have just read the news of Ian's death. Will never forget the first gig I ever attended - Ian & The Blockheads in St. Columbs Hall in Derry c. 1979. I remained a fan since.
"Good evening, I'm from Essex, in case you couldn't tell"
Martin <MARTCONWAY@aol.com>
Atlanta, USA -

I regret not seeing Ian live when he supported Madness in the early 90's. My brother was there and said he even outshone the nutty boys themselves. From what I've seen on various TV performances, he was an excellent performer and from various recent interviews - an extremely brave man.
DJ
Newcastle, UK -

Farkin' Ada,
Oh, Farkin' Ada'!
Love to you and Yours
'night, 'night........
Tone H <ToneH@talk21.com>
UK -

In the deserts of Sudan. But also in the highlands of Luton... Hit me, hit me... What a nice bloke.
Roger Thomas <roger@alcala.demon.co.uk>
Luton, UK -

I cant think of music from the 70's and 80's without thinking of Ian and the Blockhead's. God rest his soul.
Peter Heines <drlecter@iwon.com>
Vista, USA -

I remember Hammersmith 1979 (I think) which was and is the best gig I've ever been to, full stop. I remember retrieving my clothes from around the room at my girlfriend's (now my wife) house having put a 45 single of 'Reasons To Be Cheerful Part 3' on 'repeat play'. I remember lying in bed with my girlfriend (now my wife - sorry, how tedious) listening to 'Do It Yourself' on a mono cassette player. I remember hearing how he'd got cancer and thinking, naah, he'll go on for years. And I remember my wife (she used to be my girlfriend) telling me the news. Forget Presley, Cobain, even Lennon - here was a bloke I could relate to, who had been in the backing track to my life for the past 20 years - gone. (And in this corporate controlled image-driven world who will ever replace him?)
Laurence Day <green_lentil@yahoo.co.uk>
London, UK -

Had no idea that the loss of someone I'd never met would affect me so much. Sweet Gene Vincent on the radio brought a tear to my eye on the A66...
Ben
UK -

It is no surprise that this book has touched people so. It is also evident that even though Ian's forays into the British Top 40 were not that many, that nevertheless his talent has not gone unrecognised. Everyone has their memories and I can remember being thirteen and absolutely loving 'What A Waste' and had to have it in June 1978. It has continued to be a cracking record along with 'Reasons To Be Cheerful' which I can remember stood out as so vibrant in August '79. The bottom line is that Ian was a shing example of true English poetry set to great music, and it is great that he was able to come through in that breif 'new wave' period of 77-80, sandwiched inbetween disco and the 'new romantic' period when his chart fortunes fell out of favour. It was great to see him return with a high media profile in the last few years. Amongst so much dross that passes for popular music, Ian Dury was something special.
Martin <martin@beacon.greatxscape.net>
Birmingham, UK -

What a lovely man, a real gent who wrote wonderful songs for real people.I feel for his wife kids and the boys in the band. Keep the memoury alive in all that you do.
Ken Wildman <ken@wildmank.freeserve.co.uk>
Aldershot, UK -

Ian was a unique talent and totally original.He along with his Blockheads were one of the finest live acts that I've ever seen and I've been watching bands since 1963.May the great man rest in peace.
John Hellier <jjhellier@aol.com>
Canvey Island, UK -

Ian,
I cannot believe that you have gone. You were instrumental in my youth in choosing a musical path for me to follow and for that I will always be in your debt. I will always remember listening to your songs and thinking "yeah this is what its all about".
Songs as immortal as you.God Speed and thank-you.
Mike Parkinson
Mike Parkinson <m.parkinson@cwcom.net>
UK -

We have lost a hero, a poet and a man. Walk in Summerland, Ian, you leave us lonelier but enriched
Steven Wyatt <steventwyatt@hotmail.dot>
Southampton, UK -

Dear Ian,
Thank you so much for brightening up my humdrum job, full of dullards and management buffoons,, with my many memories of your spendid wit.
Your Cambridge and Palladium shows with the Blockheads, which I witnessed, ensured you a place in my affections along with my other hero, Ayrton Senna.
Who will I look to now? -Alan Titchmarsh? (I speak in jest!).
Thanks for setting an example to keep us sane and keep "The Man Upstairs" entertained and laughing.
We'll all miss you.
Chris Lewis.
Chris Lewis
Kettering,Northants, UK -

In aprox. 1980 I was in my early twenties and saw Ian with the Blockheads at Poole Art Centre, Dorset. It was an absolutely brilliant evening, Ian and the band were just great. In the foyer after the show, I was looking at the T.Shirts etc. for sale, when he was suddenly there behind the table, just looking to chat. I couldn't believe it.
He was just great, a lovely person with heaps of talent. Eighteen years on Katie, my daughter, (living in London) told me that she had managed to buy tickets to go and see Ian Dury at Hammersmith. This was about two years ago, and I wished I could have been there too. She really enjoyed the concert, saying that he was brilliant and since then has bought many of his albums.
I just wish that I could have let you know Ian how much pleasure you have given to two generations in this family. You are a Treasure. Thank You. Our thoughts and sympathy to all his family.
Su and Katie xx
Su Shimeld <susi.s@cwcom.net>
Nr. Salisbury, UK -

I feel very lucky to have been around to witness such a magnificent poet and performer.
My aspirations remain and your influence fules my optimism and individuality.
My deepest sympathy to your family and friends.
John
John Herbert <herbert1@worldonline.co.uk>
UK -

From All The British Mods...............God Bless.
Taffy Boy <jusjam@tesco.net>
Yeovil, UK -

From the first sound of the Kilburn's to the 1st Gig, the 1st drink I was passed by you, Ian (a half of Heiniken) ,to today. You are a top bloke and your art will never be beaten.

Thank you for the courage you gave to me when I had a visit from the C you have always inspired me to achieve my aims and say what I think.

Oi Oi !

Cheer mate
Pete Wilson <willow63pt@aol.com>
Leicester, England -

RIP IAN WHAT A WASTE.
Greg <gregmaddock @gregmaddock.screaming.net>
UK -

Goodnight Geezer, You were a diamond - precious and rare.Condolencies to the Family.
Corky <CLiddell@compuserve.com>
UK -

Hit Me With Your Rhythm Stick was number one on my 18th birthday, memorable day, memorable song, memorable man
juliestones
UK -

From the first time I saw Kilburn and the High Roads your bravery humour and talent have been an inspiration. I'll miss you.
Rob Moseley <moseley.rob@virgin.net>
UK -

I saw the Blockheads in OZ about 15 years ago and it still rates as the best live concert I have seen. Thanks for the memory. Always a blockhead !
Wayne Farmer <squatter@bigfoot.com>
Wellington, NZ -

You made me laugh, now you made me cry, I gonna miss yer
you silly old sod...Love ray....
Ray Gale <rayzone@galeland.freeservenet.co.uk>
UK -

Thank you
Verian
Warwickshire, UK -

Ian, you were a big part of the soundtrack to my late teenage years. I'll always treasure my 12" vinyl of "Spasticus...". Shame on the radio stations for failing to understand.
Eddie
Eddie Thornley <pubrock@btinternet.com>
Chesterton, Warks, UK -

I'll never forget a concert in Madrid, there in, about 1979.
Thank you, Ian.
pedro <pedro.an@teleline.es>
Talavera, spain -

We will all miss you Ian, Sleep well.
Mark Aspin <mark.aspin@zetnet.co.uk>
Manchester, UK -

Cheers R I P
Mick Smithurst <mick@riddings.fsnet.co.uk>
Derby, UK -

Say hello to Lee Brilleaux, Ian, and get a band up together when you get up there - thanks for the memories.
Simon Kidd <Simon.Kidd@Virgin.net>
Portsmouth, UK -

you were the best.
you may be gone but you will live on in your music.
thanks
CLAIRE METSON <aaronsflowers@lineone.net>
UK -

A special bloke with a massive talent to touch people thorough his music. I'll miss him.
Kev Graham <vulturesong@hotmail.com>
UK -

My old man,
Without a doubt you bought together the best backing band Ever.Norman,Davey,Charlie,etc...I am really stuck for words but they will never make any substitute for the joy and mellodious charm that my brother & I will miss.

RIP Ian Dury (never to be forgotten)

Wayne & Stephen Ashton
London, UK -

This book is a wonderful idea - somehow comforting to know that so many people have been so affected.
I saw Ian and the Blockheads at Hammersmith in 1978, some sports centre in North London around 1980 and Glastonbury around 1985. I will always regret not seeing them again (I had tickets for Blackheath in May) but the music has been with me all my adult life; New Boots & Panties and Mr Love Pants are both among my most-played albums ever. And aside from the music, over the past 20 years it has always been a joy to hear Ian's voice or read his words.
Ian, my thoughts and sympathy are with your family and the Blockheads - I cannot imagine how they must be missing you.
Alan Spence <suzialan@spencecurtis.freeserve.co.uk>
Southport, UK -

Ian, your music was such a very big part of my life during
my 'punk' phase when I fell in love with London enough to
go live there. I enjoyed your music for many years after
that, and always will. Your lyrics & music will live on
forever;
you've brought great joy to so many of us. We will never
forget you. Diana Rubino, Cambridge, USA
diana rubino <dianalrubino@cs.com>
cambridge, USA -

Thanks for looking in on me, I'm really glad you came....

Stephen Furby <sfurby@sfa-events.co.uk>
Windsor, UK -

I was shocked when I heard
Ian was ill a couple of months ago.Today I read the sad
news. What a loss! i grew up with his music, was 13 when I
bought New Boots and Panties.It gave me an idea of that theres
life beyound the boredom of my west - german boring hometown.
I never lost track of the man and his music. I was so glad
to hear him on the new Madness album!
Thanks for Plaistow Patricia, Billerickey Dicky and all the
other ones.Thanks for all the fun and freedom.
What a loss.There are no words to describe that loss.
Goodbye Mr. Ian Dury...
Andreas Mueller a.k.a.Admiral Tuff
Berlin, Germany -

44 Kilburn's gigs in the early 70's ... seems like yesterday...Egham Social Club (didn't have a clue where Egham was then!), Albemarle Youth Club Romford, Newlands Tavern Peckham, Hope & Anchor Islington, the list is endless. Memories of seeing you together with the Feelgoods at a private party of the 2nd Battalion Grenadier Guards (Windsor Barracks)...Charlie Sinclair and Wilko Johnson wearing busbys...upstairs at Biba's Rainbow Room Kensington - Keith Lucas wearing a tin helmet...Dingwalls Dancehall Camden...doing 'The Walk' - wore out at least 2 pairs of jeans through sweaty dancing. And then there you were supporting Sha Na Na at the Hammersmith Odean. ...and another time Dr Hook.
Seen the Kilburns described as a punk band...bollox..what punk bands had sets as diverse as "20 Tiny Fingers" (Alma Cogan), "The Walk" (Jimmy McCracklin), "OK Roland" (tribute to Roland Kirk) and "Rough Kids" the original Blockheads track.
I have an enduring image of you and Keith Lucas crammed into my first car - an old red A40 - off down the Robin Hood pub at Pooley Green for a pint. Last time I met you mate was 10 years later - having a pee alongside you at the public urinals at Heathrow Airport...you were on your way to Tunisia to film Pirates for Roman Polanski.
Well, excuse my ramblings, just really can't find a way to say I feel like I've lost one of my family......love you mate ... hope to catch up with you and Lee Brilleau again some time
Bob x x x
Bob Inman <bobinman@totalise.co.uk>
Egham, Surrey, UK -

Ian, another talented b*stard has entered the greatest gig the universe has ever seen, somewhere up there. Being a teenager i didn't get to see any of your highly merited gigs but your music shows what many bands lack today- originality. They haven't been hit with the rythm stick, if you will. The school corridors will still echo 'mash it up!' and we would never have anybody else's kippers in the grill. Don't miss us, we'll miss you. See you later. Cheeers.
Tom Blatchford the Music Student <tablatchford@lordswood.swinternet.co.uk>
Southampton, UK -

goodnight, ian. say hi to charlie and lee brilleaux. what to say. New boots defined my adolescence.The blockheads simply the tightest band of all time.Love to Norman Chas et al.
"shall i mourn your decline with some thunderbird wine and a black handkerchief" sleep tight
mike martin <malmanage@aol.com>
london, UK -

ian ;you were just one of the reasons to be cheerful,god bless .
james law
East Tilbury, UK -

OI OI RASPBERRY RIPPLE, YOU WEREN'T 'ALF A FUNKY BASTARD!
Phil George <phil_sally@pgeorge.junglelink.co.uk>
Bristol, UK -

Ian and the blockheads music-part of the soundtrack to my life for over 20 years. Great songwriter and poet and the best musicians in Britain.I'm so glad I saw you perform live
Thanks for the memories.
Pat winters <pwinters@iolfree.ie>
Dublin, Ireland -

I moved to the States 15 years ago. Now, my 3 year old
boy is singing Hit Me With Your Rythym Stick, quite well,
with an accent akin to Essex. The music lives on. Dave.
Dave Howells <dave.howells@macro4.com>
New York, USA -

Sex and drugs and rock 'n roll get many musicians. Ian Dury sang about it. The Big C got him instead. You'll be missed.
Gohen Bail <Thauramarth@usa.net>
Brussels, Belgium -

Goodnight King Blockhead,Thanks for the memories.Met you twice at Exeter University with all Blockheads 79/80.Will never forget.Love Marlene xxxx
marlene kipling <mkipling59@hotmail.com>
Plymouth, UK -

Ian, you gave me the gift of your genius for the last 24 years. I will never forget you and the happiness you've given to me and to so many people. There will always be a place for you in my heart. The world will be a sadder place without you, but when I look up at the stars, yours will be the brightest. I can't imagine life without you - things just won't be the same. My thoughts are with your family and friends. "All the best mate from your fans."
Always yours, Rachel.
Rachel Furness <rfurness@kroll-ogara.com>
London, UK -

I'll always remember the times we saw you play in Colchester, Ipswich and more recently Cambridge. You made me proud to be an Essex girl!!

Ann Beeken
Cambridge, UK -

Sorry to hear about Ian. His music played a huge part in my formative years and made me part of who I am today.
Thanks Chris
Chris Goddard <chris.goddard@dstcanada.com>
Toronto, Canada -

I grew up listening to your music Ian,and it will stay with me and many many others for a long time.May you find peace my friend.
Phil Smith
Kettering, UK -

Met Ian in 1978 at the Kilburn Gaumont, 15 at the time wagged it from school. Train from Manchester to London, I'd never been further than Oldham! Used to run a very early fan club. He was the Geezer no doubt, he was also a Gentleman. As Max Miller said "There'll never be another!"

Thanks Ian for being you, thanks for inspiring my musical career!

Vic Gilmore
Vic <me@vicgilmore.com>
Manchester, UK -

The first single I purchased, at 11 years old, was Hit Me With Your Rhthym Stick and, since then, whenever I�ve moved flat, it is the first song I put on to welcome me to a new place to live (albeit now on CD!!). The first concert I went to was Ian Dury & the Blockheads in the Lyceum Ballroom, Strand, in December 1982. When I�d finally saved up enough to pay off the mortgage, I did it on Ian�s birthday, on 12th May 1998. My wife has now agreed to name our first boy (if we have one!) after the great man.

I�ve lived away from England since 1994 and got married in 1996 to a Guatemalan. I love her deeply and wanted so much for her to see Ian play live and feel the power, the energy - and we were soooo lucky that some external force was at work and we were able to be at the London Palladium last month.

On Monday morning my computer password, BLOCKHEAD, expired; in the afternoon my mum called with the terrible news; in the evening, I cried and cried and cried.

Ian, you have been the most important influence on my life and you will continue to be, always. Your words, your strength, your actions, your humour, have been an example to me, as clearly they have been to many others as well. Someone said that you were the type of person that we all want to be. That is so true.

Every time I was lucky enough to meet you, I felt elated. Every time I saw you on TV or heard you on the radio, I felt proud to be a fan. You will be alive in my heart for ever.

Je t�adore. Ich liebe dich.

Hit me, hit me, hit me.

With heartfelt condolences to the family, and one further, long shout out to the perfect Gentleman and scholar, now sitting at God�s side.

Looking forward to seeing you again, in that perfect place where the wind really does smell of wild flowers.

R.I.P.

David Pocock (currently living in Brazil).
David Pocock <mgiron40@hotmail.com>
S�o Paulo, Brazil -

thank you ian for bringing happiness into my life
benjamin
tel aviv, israel -

You showed me what life is about. Deepest thanks, forever.
Jim
New York City, -

Friends are more than special, Friends are all we need,
Friends with one another, We'll miss you very much indeed.
shane lynch <shane@afa.clubi.ie>
Dublin, ireland -

Best wishes for the future to Ian's family,you were very lucky indeed to have been so close to such a great man.
An inspirational and inspired gentle man who brought so much joy to millions of people across the globe.My life would not have been the same without the words of wisdom so generously offered by this GEEZER of topmost quality.I had the pleasure of meeting him when he was working on one of his many theatrical projects in Stratford with Mickey.
Dear Ian,you are already missed by us all R.I.P.
OI OI!!!
Zeb <zebd@hotmail.com>
Oxford, UK -

Ian Dury showed the world that you could be a disabled person and also be charismatic, clever, humane, naughty and successful. I think he would be pleased to know that my ten year old daughter still laughs at his daft lyrics (Joey the Budgie). He will be celebrated by the disability movement in the UK for many years to come as a truly inspirational role model.
graham f
UK -

you woke me up
guido <j.dodo@planet.nl>
maastricht, holland -

A friend, an inspiration, a diamond geezer, you will always be with us.

Love & Best Wishes,

Rainbow George
alias Captain Silversides
Rainbow George <george@xat.org>
London, UK -

Ian

I bunked off school one afternoon in 1979 and away we all shot round to our mate Bear's Mum and Dad's. His brother had New Boots .... and was out at work so we sat in his bedroom and sniggerd at all the dirty words.
I was too young to realise that I had just made another friend for life even though I never got a chance to meet you. It was 20 years ago and I've picked you up and put you down over the years due to the fashion state of my ears, however
through all these years many records have been moved from the "easy to reach" area in the front room and dumped up in the spare room - yours were always close to hand mate.

I'm mates with John Cooper Clarke and we have talked about you on many occasions with affection and often awe. John's pretty good at throwing a few lines of verse together too however he is to computers what I am to directions, I couldn't
find East if I had two compasses, a praying Arab and a geography teacher.

I've laughed and cried and I pray to God you are OK now.

Cheers Ian and thanks for everything.

From me and John
Adam Bishop <adam.bishop@uk.starcomworldwide.com>
Hornchurch , UK -

Ian Dury: You came, We saw, You conquered.
It has been a priviledge working with you and all your people at your many live shows.....the highlight being the London Palladuim....the toppermost of shows....you blew the roof off!!! Sunday nights could never be the same after that.

Our sympathies go out to your family and all your friends. We'll miss you greatly. Thank you for being you.
ps: John Curd sends his luv, guv! Rock on!
Lucy & Fiona <straight@freeuk.com>
London, UK -

Ian,

Thank you for showing us that, whatever disabilities we had to learn to live with there were always Reasons to be Cheerful and that there is always someone worse off than yourself. Yes there ain't half been some clever bastards but far too few people who made the most of life!

Thank you for putting a smile on our faces over the last twenty odd years.

A heavenly chorus of hit me with your rhythm stick, the mind boggles!

Clevor Trever
Trevor Jones
UK -

I grew up with your music, your courage is an inspiration.
nigel connor <xqq23@dial.pipex.com>
UK -

Thanks for the music, Ian, and sorry you got such a lousy break. We will miss you.
Dan
New York City, USA -

i do not know how to start so all i can say between the tear's thank you
jim sorohan <bcfc@webtv.net>
brooklyn, 11215 -

"Truly a musical giant,a lyrical genius,an ambassador for the disabled,his family should be very proud"REASONS TO BE CHEERFUL PART FOUR,Thanks Kilburn
rebsy <rebsylou@lineone.net>
london, UK -

I am one of those lucky people who actually knew Ian back in the 70's in London.I consider myself privileged that our lives touched briefly. A true gentleman in every sense of the word, the world is a colder place without him, gone but never forgotten.
Marilyn Ambroziak <mazzy747@hotmail.com>
Montreal, Canada -

A man of great dignity
Lindsay Evett <lje@doc.ntu.ac.uk>
Nottingham, UK -

Sex and drugs and rest in peace... I miss the old days and we'll all miss you in KROQ-land.
Bob Young <rmyoung@pacbell.net>
Los Angeles, USA -

...over the hills and far away...

His songs always make me smile
Phil Knightley <phil@phonefun.co.uk>
Grays, Essex, UK -

you came - you saw - you conquered - you had a great time - now you're in a better place.
peace man.
john lawrence <john_lawrence@lineone.net>
peterborough, UK -

Another good one lost. The Blockheads were the finest live band
I ever saw, and Ian was a brilliant front man. He'll be missed.
Dr. David A. Allsopp
York, UK -

Ian

I hope you managed to get the Razzle in your pocket
before you left.

Will miss you

Andy
Andy Nix <andy_nix@hotmail.com>
London, UK -

we are very upset to hear of the death of ian dury i would like to he was a great singer and his music was good miss you Joe Sharp
Joe Sharp <95jossha@bexhigh.e-sussex.sch.uk>
E-sussex UK -

Such sad news - a statue of Ian should be place on the spare plinth in Trafalgar Square - he's a true hero.

Will never forget the gig at Kentish Town for Charlie Charles - absolute magic.

Rest in Peace.
Julian Cooke <lazerblue@yahoo.co.uk>
London, UK -

In Deepest sympathy to all who are missing ian esp. family and dedicated fans. Dear ian as chaplin to and on behalf of the cambridge goth soc,thankyou and R.I.P. AS an Essex man coming home to serve a curacy at st.chads vange in the summer,thankyou for being a hero for essex, as sombody who campaighns for full integration of the disabeled,thankyou for showing so many of the benefits and bleesings wich disability brings.enjoy eternity and look forward to meeting you one day,bet your out jogging with joey deacon and douglas barder as i write,thankyou bless you we will remember you.

Alex Gowing-Cumber <countdarcy@hotmail.com>
cambridge, UK -

The song has gone; but the melody remains.
Simon
London, UK -

Firstly, deepest sympathies to Ian's family and friends.
It's easy to lose track of which book of condolences I've left messages in; indeed the awesome number of messages left is a fitting tribute to the man. And that's just from those with access to email.
The first time I was aware of Ian Dury and the Blockheads must have been as an eight or nine year old...whilst his 'TOTP' appearance with 'What A Waste' was so raw it almost frightenend me, I was immediately transfixed by an amazing charisma. In the 80's my best pal introduced me to 'Do It Yourself' (I still rate 'Dance of the Screamers' as one of the most powerful and funky songs I've heard); we'd idle away our teenage years rocking to this magical fella - broken hearts, broken noses, zits, booze.....all the joy, pain and insecurities of teenage years.
My best pal's no longer with us...though deep down I miss him terribly, I look back on his memory with complete love and happiness.
Though I never met you, I was lucky enough to witness several barnstorming gigs - a true maverick backed by a legendary band. That's why I feel so sad at the inevitable news of your demise...the very real, human effect you've had on ordinary lives, in an extraordinary world. Charting the joys and sorrow with unsurpassed passion; however, in perspective, this sadness is more than matched by an absolute admiration and affectation. Because of your dignity, wit, charm, inspiration...a true artist and poet, uncompromising yet innovative....a role model to us all.
Before I sign off, it's worth saying that a couple of days after learning of Ian's death, I noticed Terry Hall in Camden ...though sadly not to talk to - to reassure me I'm sure that although we've lost a top quality fella, they will always be with us.
We should be glad to be so inclined....Ian thanks for all the high times, long may they continue.
We'll miss you so much...though the world is a much better place because of you, it still feels not quite right in some way.

So long for now.
Joe

joe merrici <joe69xxx>
London, UK -

there aint half been some talented bastards

brian Dengate <b.dengate@sportstimeevents.com>
Burgess Hill, UK -

You're shoes are much too tall for most of us. I'll miss the humor of your performances when everybody else was choking.

May you rest in peace while we have to continue with the battle ;-))
Eberhard Wenzel <e.wenzel@mailbox.gu.edu.au>
Brisbane, Australia -

Ian will never be forgotten,why is it that the best are taken too soon,Condolences to his Family
Greg <Scruffy_17_au@Yahoo.com>
Taree,N.S.W., AUSTRALIA -

Our deepest condolences to all his family and all that knew him.
With love and great affection for the not only Man but also
his wit and words.
Del, Neil, Douggie, Johniie Bahji, Rupert, Cadbury's and all at
the Wimbledon Village Club.

Wimbledon Crew <caesar.movie@virgin.net>
London, UK -

Love to Ian's family � with appreciation of a man whose music is wonderful and whose response to a terrible illness will inspire many who are fighting similar battles
Graham Harris <total.features@btinternet.com>
Cambs, UK -

A black cloud formed above me last monday upon hearing this sad news.
Ian was a geezer, the true spirit of London captured on vinyl and later CD. The Mile End Road will never be the same again, a legend in his own lunchtime and a lifetime of memories through his music for me.
After first listening to My Old Man i repaired some broken bonds with my old man and now we are as close as any father and son could be.
You WILL be missed my old son, but every time I play one of your tracks i always will have a reason to be cheerful

Nigel Fox
Nigel Fox <fullers-esb@beer.com>
Sydney, Australia -

Taught me that life is what you make it. Blow the rest.

Sorely missed
David Hughes <bhb@globalnet.co.uk>
Stourbridge, UK -

First single, first album I ever bought: 'Rhythm Stick' & 'New Boots & Panties!!' certainly set a high standard... Taught me, even then, how words can creep into your life, rub along its crazy paving, get rooted in - sad, wickedly funny, astonishingly obscene (still remember the shock of 'Plaistow Patricia': I was only 10!) - and hold your hand along the way. Never looked back: a life of loving music, loving words set to music, loving crazy patterns, and all thanks to Ian. I do it for a living now (think about words, that is), and I still can't get beyond his example. My life wouldn't be what it is if it weren't for him - I've never been so saddened by the death of someone I didn't know. Thank you so much, Ian. Have another sleep, love: it's you that needs it most. With respect, love, and gratitude, Martin.
Martin Crowley <mfgssmpc@man.ac.uk>
Manchester, UK -

You left this party too early mate.

A very 'tall' man in life, who will be living in our hearts and memories.

God rest your soul.

Thank you and goodbye
Spiff - Hornchurch
UK -

So glad I saw him play last year at the Shepards Bush Empire. One of the best gigs of my life.
Can still remember when 'Hit me with . . .' came out. I was eleven. Everyone at school went mad for it.
Much love to his family.
Barrie White <barrie.white@lineone.net>
UK -

Ian, thanks for the tunes, they're part of my youth.
Sad to think there'll be no more. Regards to the family.

Jon Tout <jontout@yahoo.com>
Bristol, UK -

Although I am sad that Ian has gone, I'm glad that he is out of pain. Condolences to his family
Louise Gardner <louise.gardner@peterborough.ac.uk>
Peterborough, UK -

Condolences to Ian's family and friends. What a mighty man he was!

kevin
rochester, UK -

John Walsh wrote that Ian embodied the life force. I have the same condition Ian had, but watching him, and seeing how he handled it made it easier for me to bear. I shall miss him terribly. My condolences to those who loved him.
JENIFER MORTON <alexmorton@msn.com>
UK -

From the day I brought "New Boots and Panties" in 1979,
to the last time I saw Ian, in his final concert at the London Palladium on 6th February 2000, the man and his music
has had a major influence on my choice of LP, MC and CD.
I was lucky enough to see ID&TB four times, including the spectacular "Warts and All" concert at the Brixton Academy.
My condolences go out to all his family and friends, and the many thousands of Blockheads, who have been prematurely deprived of a great song writer. Thankfully, he has left us with some brilliant 'tunes', that will last longer than all of us. Many Thanks Ian - I will be holding a candle, and I don't care where it's been! Oi, Oi.

Ben Awcock,
Haywards Heath,
England.
Ben Awcock <ben.awcock@ccmail.eu.sony.co.jp>
Haywards Heath, UK -

Another Clever B�$&$%D clocks off Don't forget to get off at Hendon.
MiK <michael.dunleavy@opcuk.co.uk>
GLASGOW, UK -

Ian, the nicest I've ever worked with. Thanks for making my job worthwhile and being a pain in the ass (sometimes).
No, I can not take those stickers off, they're printed!

Michael (CNR)
Michael Cahen <michael.cahen@arcade.com>
DELFT, HOLLAND -

I was pretty shocked to hear the news you died.
You are my greatest musician that ever appeared in this world.
Your voice, your looks, your sence in music... Everything about you infulenced me.
It's not too much to say that you opened my door to the world, and gave me a courage to live my life.
I think that you were happy because of your excellent stuffs. Chaz, Norman, John, Mickey, Davey... and Charley, the BLOCKHEADS was the GREAREST BAND in the world.
Never... never forget you in my life.

From here to eternity. GOOD LUCK!

Takumi Ayukawa <raincoat@jeans.ocn.ne.jp>
Ishikawa, Japan -

ABSOLUTE TOP MAN IN EVERY WAY. SADLEY MISSED
THE BRAVEST MAN OF ALL.
CHRIS WHITE <TUBESSCAFFOLDING@AOL.COM>
OXFORD, UK -

Played my Very Best of Ian Dury and the Blockheads CD on Sunday, sang and danced around the kitchen with joy and delight. Completely overwhelmed by the news of your death. V sad I never saw you live - hopefully, I'll see you up there one day!

I feel priveleged to have grown up with your music.
Julie Lehane <julie.lehane@tesco.net>
Manchester, UK -

I am so sad about your death. You were such an influence on our lives when we were younger with Sex and Drugs and Rock and Roll. I still have the badges somewhere. Miss you fab guy.
emma samkin <emmasamkin@hotmail.com>
UK -

Ian,
Your rhythm stick touched the hearts of us all.
The memories you gave us will never be forgotten.
May your music live on through the next century.
IAN DURY R.I.P.
Jack Davies <jack_davies_85@Yahoo.co.uk>
London, UK -

Reasons to be tearful - Goodbye old friend.

love from Jeff, Sue & Gary Blockhead xxxx
Sue <susie_box@hotmail.com>
Essex, UK -

You will be missed but your legacy of music will endure.
RIP.

Pat Hamilton <pjh@doc.ntu.ac.uk>
Nottingham, UK -

Dead but not forgotten
Cleo Wilson
Manchester, Lancishire UK -

A role model for every person to lead their life, with fun aand love the priority. You will be missed but the music will influence many generations to come.
Greg
Laindon, Essex, UK -

My deepest sympathy to Ians wife and children.

Ian, you were really one of the worlds great lyricists, you had an ability to lift certainly my spirits when throwing one of your albums.

I was at Cambridge, last November (1999), you said on stage that you and the boys were really enjoying the gig and it was f***ing brilliant, and you looked forward to playing the Corn Exchange next year (2000), this stuck with me because you were clearly ill but still you gave the gig every thing - as always.

You will be hugely missed by your family, your fans, and the music industry, - you were F***ing Brilliant.
God bless, may you rest in peace.
Robert Poole <rpppl@yahoo.com>
Colchester, UK -

My deepest condolences to Ian's family. Rest in peace Ian. You touched many people. There's an equally long rememberance message list at the BBC's website: http://newsvote.bbc.co.uk/hi/english/talking_point/newsid_692000/692692.stm
Jon Stewart <jonsleeper@hotmail.com>
Los Angeles, USA -

Bought New Boots and Panties when it was released,
then went to see Ian in Summer 1979 at Bridlington Spa. I was
7 months pregnant at the time but this did not stop me dancing.
I was amazed at how he managed the unruly element in the crowd and
restored order. He was a very special person and will be sadly missed.
Annette <sal6@york.ac.uk>
York, UK -

Used to play Ian & the BH's non-stop 10 years ago and, after going to the Madness Xmas concert & hearing him in the pre-concert music I had only just re-discovered him. So sorry I never saw him in concert, he will always brighten my day.
Paul Scholes <Paul.scholes@tesco.net>
London, UK -

Without a doubt the greatest lyrisist of our times. He will be sadly missed as a man but his personality lives on through his music
Nick Raworth <technical@sli-vch.com>
Ipswich, UK -

He was great. He teach me how to take music not too seriously without being a clown but a good musician.
See you around Ian
ROBERTO <OBI@BLUMONE.FREESERVE.CO.UK>
HARROGATE, UK -

SAW THE BLOCKHEADS IN CONCERT IN DUBAI 2 YEARS AGO.THE CONCERT WAS OUTSTANDING .IAN BROUGHT BACK SO MANY MEMORIES THAT NIGHT .HE APPEALED TO YOUNG AND OLD .MY DAUGHTERS WHO ARE 5 AND 10 YEARS OF AGE NOW PLAY HIS MUSIC AND SING ALONG WORD FOR WORD.
GOD BLESS YOU IAN.
YOUR GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN.
MAL FAREN <mfaren@excite.com>
Dubai, UAE -

Ian, it was my pleasure working with you and knowingyou in those Wasted Talent Days. So very very sad to lose you. With fond memories and sincere condolences to your family.

Luv Trudy
Trudy Winspear (nee Stephenson) <T.Winspear@gknghq.co.uk>
Sherborne, Dorset, UK -

He could use words far better that I ever can. So long
Chris Priestley <chris@seedypea.co.uk>
Caldwell, UK -

Interesting, but not as good as Eric Clapton or Led Zep in any way I can possibly think of. I do believe I am corresct...........YES, I am.
Clapton

Clapton
Frankfurt, Upper Jamaica -

Interesting, but not as good as Eric Clapton or Led Zep in any way I can possibly think of. I do believe I am corresct...........YES, I am.
Clapton
London, East Bengal -

Lindsay Evett Nottingham, UK -

Goodbye Ian, stay well in the other world!!
livia strola <livia.strola@rapisardi.it>
milan, italy -

For me the greatest loss to music. The man was and is still such an inspiration to so many. Without his talent we would not have had the likes of Madness. I saw him several times in concert and even towards the end his carisma just flooded out. The sense of fun and mischeviousness in his lyrics will always nake me smile. This is the only time when someone famous has left us that I have felt personally touched. Good on yer Ian, and thanks for such a great party.

One of your Billericay Dickies.
Steve
Billericay, UK -

"All I want for my birthday is another birthday.." happy songs, sad songs, songs to make you want to fight, songs that make you want to shag - The lyrical genious is no more. The only lyric that doesn't fit the bill right now is "What a Waste" No chance, you "must be off your crust!!"...RIP big man
kieron dann <kierondann@superonline.com.tr>
Ankara, Turkey -

To Ian,
My thoughts are with your family that you loved so much.
I grew up with Blockhead Darren from our early teens with your music and being loyal blockheads.
The blockheads were my band and you my icon. We followed you around the country and always thought we were more than just two guys who just bought your records.
It was a privilege and honour to roadie for you at Dingwalls after Mr Love Pants was released. Lucky enough to have met you on numerous occasions over the years. You were so talented but also a caring human being that cared for others. Its wonderful to see all these messages from ALL over the world, we know we are blockheads but the media are at last realising they�re blockheads too.
You once said Mr Love Pants was your swan song, but I think the Halifax advert is because it summed up your life, your attitude your energy, lust for life and your dreams, a master stroke to get your last message into every home.
Now you�re free to fly amongst the stars but you�re a natural star and will shine bright than most
Thank you for the entertainment, the experience and most of all being you.
Ian Dury and his Blockheads will always be part of my life!

Love

Blockhead Trevor or Clever Trevor or any other nickname I picked up on the way.

Trevor Harrison-Phipps
Trevor@Bluejuiceproductions.co.uk

X

Trevor Harrison-Phipps <trevor@bluejuiceproductions.co.uk>
Bromley, UK -

Ribaldly vaudevillian, unfurling words like silk handkerchiefs from a magician's sleeve, dropping scattershot rhymes over skintight funk from the band. No blockhead, he. The guvnor, full of warmth and wit. Undimmed even now.
Aidan Hallett <aidan-ruth@hallett-thompson.freeserve.co.uk>
Leicester, UK -

I'm not sad for you Ian, only for myself. You had a great life - definitely not "a waste".
Michael Grant
Wellington, New Zealand -

Too many memories - buying my first 12" single (Rhythm Stick), trying to learn all the Reasons to be Cheerful rhymes, the little individual badges that said "sex" "drugs" "rock" "roll". Bloody good music too.
Terry Hurley
Shoreham-by-Sea, UK -

Goodbye to the upminster funkster... A sad loss.. but glad you lived.
Willy <will@safins.or.jp>
Fukushima, JApan -

still my hero. big love to family and friends ...very good indeed. paul phear. ps how about everyone on these pages making a donation to cancer bacup or any of the charity's ian supported?
Paul Phear <paul@capitalfm.com>
London, UK -

Ian's music was a source of inspiration and comfort through awkward teenage years and through years away from home since. Sometimes a man's got to bend with the wind if he doesn't want to break with it.... so I'm going to break wind.

Thanks, Ian.
Simon Redman <redncc1701@yahoo.com>
Hong Kong, China -

Had the fealing to get out the Ian dury album, New Boots and panties..., Listened with my sweetie, we danced in the kithen to that album on Sunday. Ian Dury is one of my all time favorits .... Heard the news that Ian dury died on Monday..really feal some deep fealing, tears welling in my eyes I dug out my upmiester and Do it yourself listened with my son and girlfriend. Thought.. of the time, I saw you in concert at the state theater Minneapolis, you opened up for Lou Reed (1978) I fell in love with your music and style I missed a lot INBETWEEIES ....... THANKS WITH LOVE!!!
Dan Ehman <Landdan@visi.com>
St.Paul Minnesota, USA -

One of the politest men in history. He made sex, drugs, rock n roll, all reasons to be cheerful.
John O'Brien
Australia -

One of the best - not many inspire such affection and good memories. Thanks for providing the soundtrack for some great times - and an amazing gig at the Edinburgh Odeon way back when.Cheers and RIP
Alasdair Nichol <alasnichol@aol.com>
new york, USA -

A sad loss to all of us.But you will live on in the music and memories you leave behind.My sympathies go to your wife and children.
John Tarrel <john.tarrel@vcint.com>
UK -

It's Wednesday, March 29th, 2000. This is the first night I have heard about Ian. Knowing about other punk bands like Iggy Pop, GG Allin, etc. I wanted to Learn about Ian. One of the most influencal punk bands ever as I was told. The true Grandfather of punk. And I learned he died last Monday. Pretty Ironic. I didn't even KNOW ANYTHING about him, and already I fell the loss. It's sad to hear! At Least we have the music of Ian and The Blockheads. Rest in Peach Ian.
Draven
Ft. Lauderdale, USA -

Aww geez, how come someone who can bring so much joy into so many lives be taken away, yet assholes seem to live forever. For someone I never met, I was deeply affected by his death. My condolences to family and friends.
Doug Smith <prideofnone@hotmail.com>
Canberra, Australia -

On behalf of the Steve Harley Fan Club, I would like to offer our deepest condolences on the death of one of the great talents of British rock, a gentleman, and a true character.

Steve is currently paying his own tribute to Ian during his current tour, remembering Ross On Wye last year, when Steve was asked to stand in for Ian when he was too ill to play.

I met many of Ian's fans that night, and found a genuinely friendly crowd, willing to listen to another band's music and give it a fair chance.

We feel deeply for his family and his fans in this sad time.

God bless Ian.
Dave Hornby <daveh@eidosnet.co.uk>
Kinmel Bay, UK -

R.I.P.
The only one to put our home town on the map....
Billericay Vicki <vbrearley@hotmail.com>
Christchurch, NZ -

Ian, thanks for the music which has brightened many of my days. Since '78 when I first heard new boot n panties, I've been hooked. Your unique expression will be missed. It does indeed now feel like a lonely town.
Dave Cintron <cintron@apk.net>
Cleveland, USA -

rest in peace ian, safe in the knowledge that you music lives on.....
Simon <zimon@aol.com>
San Diego, -

"Sex and Drugs and Rock and Roll" -- great album! thanks Ian
Dennis <Strawberry99@earthlink.net>
So. Cal, -

My deepest sympathy to Ian's wife and family. I hope that you will have the opportunity to read all these messages so that you will know that his art still lives with all of us all around the world.
David McDowell <mcdowelld@bbgdc.com>
Washington DC, USA -

Hit me with your rhythm stick is one of the best songs of all-time.Your humour and warmth is still shining,and combined with your music,you will live on this world forever.You are an inspiration.My condolences to your family,but take comfort that many others are feeling your loss
Kieren Otton <honest@morgan.net.au>
Sydney, Australia -

As a semiprofessional musician,I want to tell you,that beiing on stage and making music is one of the nost peacefull and exiting things on earth.
Ian, I loved your music and I hope you loved yoer life!!
Ralf <RWWetzlar@aol.com>
Wetzlar, GERMANY -

I once had the privelege on meeting Ian while he was getting a handjob under the table from some nigger bitch at a burger joint called Libbys. Talk about razzle in my pocket.........
Sal the Pizza Man <kennywatkins@dellnet.com>
Paterson, USA -

A great artist, with a big heart. We will all miss you
Peter Grayston <grayston@iweb.net.au>
Adelaide, Australia -

Ian, thanks for the memories, the music, the humour and the warmth. The world's a poorer place without you. Cheerio, me old cock.
Tez Burke <webmaster@bcb.yorks.com>
Bradford, UK -

Sex and drugs and Rock and Roll, its all my brains and body needs, Sex and drugs and rock and roll, very good indeed
Lee <I_am_Me@mr-potatohead.com>
Perth, Australia -

I can't claim to have followed Ian Dury's music and life.
However, I spent a long time livin' in and around London
and remember the name 'Kilburn and the High Roads'!
I do know however, that to face such adversity in life--as
Ian surely did, and still to smile, is'nt easy.My thoughts
go to his family--he faced life's hardships with courage--
and from what I read, he refrained from asking "Why Me".
May the peace that I passionately believe he will now enjoy
reward him for the difficulties he faced in life.
RIP--Ian.
Geoff Smith <geoffs@hotmail.com>
Nr.Cardiff, Wales/UK -

Oi Oi......Ooii
Oi Oi......Ooii
Oi Oi......Ooiiyaheeeeeey
Gutted.
ian blo <ian.brangan@aztechtrading.com>
london, UK -

Will miss his talent and Humour, a great loss.
Chris Mac <chrismacx@easynet.co.uk>
UK -

In the Summer of my youth there were three essetial albums you had to have. Never Mind the Bollocks by the Pistols, the first album by the Clash and New Boots and Panties by Ian Dury. I saw I an four times in my life, all in very different circumstances and places. The first time in his heyday at Deeside Leisure Centre, North Wales, an ice ring for Gawd sakes!! Blockhead perfection. The second time at Glastonbury where I had some very hazy memories, but one outstanding one was Spasticus!!
Then in the Autumn of my life I saw him at Croyden last November where he blew my brain and I consider myself oh so f*ckin lucky to have been at the Paladium in Feb this year. Sweet Gene Vincent never tasted so sweet, to see a man give his all for the sake of the many Blockheads there, along with all the trinkets and gold. I wore my Blockhead shirt with pride. As we walked round London that night I was on cloud nine, the buzz was electric and I looked forward to seeing Ian again sometime this summer. Sadly that Can't be, the guy was a Diamond Geezer.....sorely missed. He lived Rock 'n' Roll.....someone once said it is better to burn out than to fade away....Ian's memory will never fade away and his star will always shine.
Mash it up Harry
love Terry

Terry Hughes <Telmanic@aol.com>
UK -

I saw Ian perform many years ago in New York and enjoyed his show immensely. At the time I was taking photographs for a local rock newspaper. He was unique and will be sorely missed. My condolences to his family on the loss of Ian.
Janet Kaye <jkaye@ebglaw.com>
New York, USA -

Someone should be counting these! can't add anything expect sorry to the family.
graham <g.wiz@yahoo>
London, UK -

Sleep well poet! You gave simple joys and inspiration to so many
Sean <seanhurl@netscapeonline.co.uk>
Paisley, UK -

My name's Ian Dovey (no I never pretended to be you) - I now live in Thanet - I know a Janet! I never saw you live - God bless you I wish I had.

How strong, how unique; what a lovely, balanced (!) clever bastard. If only there were more like you. I don't want you to rest in peace - I do want you to be pain free - but I want you to create hell up there in heaven. Thanks mate.
Ian Dovey <IanDKent@aol.com>
Broadstairs, UK -

Me and my best mate Jethro, age 10, East Molesey, a summer afternoon after school, glasses of orange squash, the early 80s. Killing ourselves in his kitchen to his big brother's new tape.

"Home improvement expert Harold Hill of Harold Hill,
Of do-it-yourself dexterity and double-glazing skill,
Came home to find another gentleman's kippers in the grill.
So he sanded off his winkle with a Black & Decker drill..."

And there was more:
"Melt the guns, dismantle the bombs,
love your neighbour wherever they're from.
It's time that the baby's kept quiet...
Up your bum!"

Twenty years later, still one of the biggest laughs I've ever had. Rest in peace.
Ricky (as it was then) Cooper a.k.a. Richmond Richard <rikc420@ukonline.co.uk>
London, UK -

Deepest condolances. Ask Charlie, what's the chance of you and him knocking out a new number.
ian breslin <ianbreslin@hotmail.com>
London, UK -

Ian the likes of you we have to thank for everything you have given to the world.... your music, your influence on others and of course that big heart and witty mind. Without you the music industry would have beeen full of fakes but you were there being you and being loved for it...
But at least you'll suffer no more and we know we'll see you again
Rest in Peace M'Lord
Magzor xxxx
Magzor <maggiejury@hotmail.com>
Eire -

A very rare moment happend in a lot of peoples lives, Like most I shed a tear for a man I never met. We'll miss you Ian but I hope your family will draw strength from this book a testiment of your effect on our lives... Top Geezer RIP.
Al Charles
Kings Lynn, UK -

Totally gutted - we knew it was coming, but it's still a shock, Ian - God Bless You & my heart goes out to your family & especially your two young sons who will have to grow up without their dad - cruelly robbed of such an amazing man. Hope you are at peace.
As a Madness fan, I know just how big an influence you were on them & that you're links & frienship with them carried on right to the end - you complimented them perfectly on Drip Fed Fred. I saw "the blockheads" only once at Madstock 1 on Sun. 9/8/92 & what a brilliant performance it was - one of the highlights of the day - thanks a million for the Madness influence, The Blockheads & for you're inspirational attitude to life right to the end....take care & have as much fun up there as you did down here. Goodnight...........Rob W
Rob W <robw.mad7@btinternet.com>
fife, UK -

Thanks Ian
You made me sad, glad and stop me going mad.
A great influence on my life.
Russell <russara@globalnet.co.uk>
LONDON, UK -

How sad the passing of such a top geezer. Thanks, Ian, for some top gigs, some great records, a brilliant band - and some serious fun!

Quita
Quita <Jacquita_a@hotmail.com>
Somerset, UK -

First time I paid over Fl 5.00 for a beer
but happy to be a part of it THANK YOU my friend
`Victor Mansveld <Xamechi@hotmail.com>
The Hague, Nl -

I miss your voice.
NORIO YOSHIDA <twang@kt.rim.or.jp>
JAPAN -

I will NEVER be the ticket man at Fulham railway station!
Helen
UK -

At a time when every band was serious and pretentious, Ian was a source of insanity and fun. Not only is "Oh Mr. Peanut" and other tunes rock and roll at it's best; it's the only music that makes my whole family laugh (from baby to grandpa). I miss him already.
Jim Hanlon <jhanlon@icestorm.net>
Columbus,Ohio, USA -

A diamond geezer. Great songwriter.
John Taylor <johnjtaylor@easicom.com>
Prudhoe,Northumberland, UK -

Great music govnor!
Martin Bridge <martinbridge@tinyonline.co.uk>
Guildford, UK -

Reasons to be cheerful..
Whenever I felt sad over the years....I always knew how to make myself feel better again...New Boots And Panties nice n loud. It worked everytime, and I know many others who get cheered-up hearing your songs.
TEST....try singing along to the whole album WITHOUT smiling. Can't be done.
Great stuff.
Ga
(Ex-Budeaux boy)
Gary Cowling <gcowling@gcowling.eurobell.co.uk>
Bridport, UK -

Spasticus Artisticus motivated me in my ideals and work since the day i heard it over 10 years ago. Manmy people never understood it, maybe I didn't, but it meant the world to me. RIP 'The Bard of Billariky'
Rick <rmh@bikerider.com>
Essex, UK -

We were priviledged to have been in Ians' audience for each of his last 5 tours, including his final show at the London Palladium.
At the end of the Palladium show, Ian told everyone that our support for him gave him the energy to continue his fight. If only that
had been so.
We are not usually moved by the passing of a 'celebrity' or 'entertainer', but Ian was never just a 'celebrity' or 'entertainer'.
He was our mate.

RIP you clever bastard.

Paul & Karen
Paul & Karen <sparky01@globalnet.co.uk>
Reigate, UK -

Ian,

My only regret about knowing you is I never met you. Rest in peace. "Je t'adore, Ich lieb dich".

Les xxx
Les <lesley@lclark.fsnet.co.uk>
Warrington, UK -

You will be sadly missed. Deepest sympathies to your family and friends. New boots and panties still my favourite album after all these years!
Max <netnerd100@hotmail.com>
UK -

Ian Dury was an inspiration, a genius. Anyone who can write "sex n drugs n rock n roll.. is very good indeed" is okay in my book. Sadly missed. Kevin W.
Kevin Williamson <rebelinc@hotmail.com>
Edinburgh, UK -

Ian, just thank you for your music.
Ronald Clijnk <clijnk@alehop.com>
Puigpelat, Spain -

You look so self possessed, I won't disturb your rest, its lovely when you're sleeping, but wide awake is best...wake up...Ian thanks for Hammersmith Odeon 1979,I've still got the ticket.

Claudia <Business@Tomlinson1.freeserve.co.uk>
UK -

A sad occasion but what a final album! Rest in peace and love to your wife and the boys.
Andy <aerooke@aol.com>
Southampton, UK -

In my young days (60s/70s) you were outrageous, a one-off, unique, probably the greatest poet and lyricist around the music scene. Words full of witty invention and one of the tightest bands around. It was my joy in turn to introduce my children to the Ian Dury magic, starting on that beautifully sunny day at Victoria Park in August 1998, when we first knew he was fighting liver cancer. Since then both generations have seen him at Croydon (twice) and Blackheath, with the December 1999 gig at Croydon fresh in our minds. We got fantastic tickets in the front row and it was amazing. Diamond geezer, all these wonderful titles, but nothing is adequate to describe the sheer humanity and unpretentiousness and fun of one of the music industry's rarest talents. So sorry you've gone - respect and love to the Blockheads and Ian's family who must be devastated by their loss.

Valerie Shepard
Valerie Shepard <valerie.shepard@cwcom.net>
Orpington, UK -

I'll miss you
For Iver and Iver.
Crouch End.
Twatty Banjo <newall@clara.co.uk>
UK -

GOODNIGHT GUVNOR,YOU ARE SADLY MISSED.
CONDOLENCES TO IAN'S FAMILY.
BARRY & SANDRA HOBBS <barryhobbs@talk21.com>
BRIGHTON, UK -

Goodbye, Ian.

stephen aldcroft <s.p.aldcroft@btinternet.com>
manchester, UK -

One of my Heros, he's given me my favorite album (still after 23 years).His intelligence,outlook and humor always had my respect.
"Good on ya"
M. Elvin <elvinpools@tinyworld.co.uk>
Norwich, UK -

What a waste.
Gary Ellwood <gary.ellwood@totalise.co.uk>
Sunderland, UK -

Shan't mourn your decline with some thunderbird wine as it always made me sick - I'll stick to the red. Great man, great voice, great music. You will be sadly missed. Condolences to Ian's family.
Karen Foster <kfoster@eurobell.co.uk>
Penzance, UK -

Goodbye, Lord Upminster!
See you up there....
Elviz <elviz@glamourbombs.de>
Frankfurt, Germany -

A SAD LOSS TO MUSIC, YOU WILL BE GREATLY MISSED, BUT YOUR CONTIBUTION TO MUSIC AND BRITISH CULTURAL HERITAGE WILL ENSURE THAT YOU ARE REMEMBERED FOR A VERY LONG TIME TO COME. WITH DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO THOSE LEFT BEHIND.
L SHEPPARD <LUCY@SHEPPARD57.FREESERVE.CO.UK>
LEEDS, UK -

My favourite 'Raspberry Ripple', the world is a poorer place.
Jez Payne- Frank <jezpay@hotmail.com>
UK -

reasons to be cheerful minus 1
you are missed
james mc guire <James.Mc@btinternet.com>
Biggar, UK -

what a waste of a very talented and excellent songwriter and performer he was an example to us all of a man who, although having been ill for so long, never allowed life to get on top of him. We'll all miss you Ian.
Sharon Hughes
UK -

A great entertainer. Sure changed a corner in my little world. All the best to his friends and family.
Shira Wild <ShiraWild@aol.com>
Queens, USA -

All the best, mate, from a fan......
We all have to leave the party sometime, eh ?
Mark Woods <mwoods@btinternet.com>
Nottingham, UK -

The music of my Childhood. I have Shivers down my spine every time I hear Ian's Music. A very Sad Day. We Miss you.
A Fan.
Peter King <peter.king10@virgin.net>
London, UK -

All the best, mate, from a fan......
We all have to leave the party sometime, eh ?
Mark Woods <mwoods@btinternet.com>
Nottingham, UK -

I have been a great fan since the 70's and was thrilled to see Ian on Feb 4 2000 at the UEA Norwich. Such a wonderful concert the memories will be with me forever. You will be missed.
Jayne Curson <mark.curson@virgin.net>
Norwich, UK -

The number of messages posted here says more than anything. So glad I was at the Palladium last month, so sad that there won't be another chance to see him again.

Sadly missed already
John Stanton <Jstan22271@aol.com>
London, UK -

We'll miss you, guv'nor. You were an inspiration.
Ruari O'Toole <RuariJOT@selfesteem1.freeserve.co.uk>
Newcastle, UK -

What a waste!
This is the best expression of my feelings about Ian's passing.
This man has been making me feeling better myself everytime I was listening to Him.
We will never forget You, Ian...
Condolences for Family.
Mirek Parejko <pareicos@parejo.com.pl>
Wroclaw, Poland -

A great musician and person who will be greatly missed.
Geoff Rippon <geoff.rippon@btinternet.com>
Derby, UK -

Ian GOD bless you mate do you really believe in him with all the crap you had to put up with in your life.Thanks for leaving us with a magnificient farewell present your show at the London Palladium.WHAT A WASTE

JAMES HUFF <james.huff.@bt.com>
SOUTH LONDON, UK -

ARS VITA RITA
mervyn blockhead
UK -

Gone, but not forgotten. We're all blockheads, too.
Richard Walden <walden@tesco.net>
Bedworth, UK -

I've read these messages with a tear in my eye. A great loss to the world - a man worthy of so much respect. It's good that so many people are expressing their feelings of sadness and remembering the many good ways in which Ian touched us. From a school kid with New boots and panties to a dad with Mr love pants, he's been with me all the way. Inbetweenies still blasts out from my parents house regularly and my 4 year old son loves Mash it up Harry.
To his family, the Blockheads and his friends, we are all so very sorry. He was such a good bloke.
Thanks Mate and well done.

Pete Bates <stuntdog@tesco.net>
Rugby, UK -

Condolences to the world, for it has lost a fine man. As for Ian, I suspect he's still having fun. Rest in peace.
Tim
Leicester, UK -

God bless you Ian not only a great writer and performer but a very special human being thanks for some special memories may you rest in peace OI! OI!
Glenn Urwin <glenn@urwin.safc.co.uk>
Ilford, UK -

'What a Waste'? - not by any stretch of the imagination - I'll bet you've got Lennon & Marley jamming with you already - cheers Ian.
Glyn Walker <wish@lequeux.freeserve.co.uk>
UK -

I'll mourn your decline with some thunderbird wine and a black handkerchief
Anon <anon>
UK -

THERE SHOULD BE MORE OUT THERE LIKE YOU IAN NOT A CARE IN THE WORLD FOR YOURSELF BUT IT HIT ME MORE THAN WITH A RYTHM STICK WHEN I HEARD ,
SADLY MISSED BUT NOT FORGOTTEN YOUR MUSIC WILL LIVE ON
steve duckles <sduckles@madasafish.com>
HULL, UK -

One of rock's originals...he will be truly missed. I was lucky enough to attend an insightful and very funny lecture he gave at Newport College of Art in Wales during 1978. So long, mate!
Simon Bodger <simon@filmclip.com>
New York City, USA -

WHAT A GEEZER, DEFINITELY A UNIQUE TALENT WHO WILL BE SADLY MISSED! WHO WILL GIVE US SUCH WONDERFUL DOWN TO EARTH LYRICS NOW?
John Higgins <johnhiggins@madasafish.com>
Sunbury-on-Thames, UK -

I've never mourned the passing of a pop star before but couldn't help shedding a few tears for you today.
"New boots and panties" was my first LP and for a while in my youth I thought that all music would be as clever, wicked and witty as yours. I pretty well gave up listing to pop music when I realised there weren't any more like you.
Thanks for what you did, you were the governor.

Neil Bruce <neil.bruce@cableinet.co.uk>
Edinburgh, UK -

As far as I know, the only person to mention Shoeburyness in a song. Sadly, badly missed.
Gordon
Essex, UK -

Mr. Dury
It was magic, yeah?
Taara mate
robb parton <robparton@labourstart.zzn.com>
Hamilton, Aotearoa New Zealand -

I,ll never forget when the Blockheads were second on the bill at one of the Madstock festivals and blew everyone else away.A giant of a man, a giant in music. I cant beleive I will not see you sing again. R.I.P. Mr Lovepants.
Rob <brelectrical@msn.com>
London, UK -

A rare breed, humility and humour.
Keep straight geezer
Clive M
Watford, UK -

The man was my hero, a complete inspiration. First single I ever bought was Hit me with your rhythm stick. I will always remember him as he was on stage , Luton 99.
God Bless
Dave Bushnell <BushCFC@aol.co.uk>
oxford, UK -

I was a teenager when I bought the "Stiffs Live" LP in '78....Ian really stood out on an album full of highly individualistic artists. My fave from Ian's catalogue? "My Old Man"...just a brilliant piece of lyric writing....he was a truly underrated musician, certainly in the USA, at least. I will mourn his decline.....
Buzz Gordo
New Haven, CT, USA -

Thank you geezer. RIP
mick
bracknell, UK -

Thank you Ian,your're gone but not forgotten...
You're music and lyrics will live forever.

Patrick Dankou <yestour@trinidad.net>
Pembroke, Trinidad & Tobago -

I moved to the USA years ago, and recently went back to Europe to pick up my old albums that had got left behind. Ian Dury & The Blockheads was one of the most treasured, and it was good to get it back. I returned to the USA this week to find that he passed away. Wherever he is, I wish him the best. He was what my youth was all about. God Bless.
Vicki <vbc207@aol.com>
Fort Lauderdale, USA -

I'm stuck for the one thing you were never short of...words.
Darran Buckley <darran@loydebuckley.freeserve.co.uk>
Leeds, UK -

Ian - a great inspiration to us all. Great to the last. Thank for the inspiration during my youth.

Cheers

Nigel
Nigel Cumberland <Cumbo65@aol.com>
UK -

bedankt voor je muziek

klaas lugthart <klaashen@worldonline.nl>
katwijk zh, netherlands -

I miss you at now and forewer. I wish you all the best in haven.
Thanks for all.
meyer harald <hmeyer@flamco.de>
Genthin, Sachsen-Anhalt Germany -

Thanks for the great music Ian. You will live on in our hearts.
Eric Willis
Calgary, Canada -

See you later, Ian
Michael Wilson <lastof@pipemedia.co.uk>
UK -

god bless mate!
mark <mbc7t@netscapeonline.co.uk>
stoke, UK -

Grande viejito!!!

A seguir tocando en el cielo
Luis Felipe <luisfel@rdc.cl>
Santiago, Chile -

rest in peace
celia
manchester, UK -

Here�s to your journey�it seems as though you enjoyed it. And that�s the whole point. Be seeing you soon as who knows what next!�Your eternal friend, Rob
Rob Cramer <robcramer@ntr.net>
New City, NY, USA -

I met Ian once in a pub called the Valentine, in Gants Hill, which was next door to the Ilford Odeon, where he played a number of gigs.
I was early for his concert, and went into the public bar, there was only a few people in, just after opening, two young girls in one corner, and this old tramp in the other, drinking tea from a plastic cup.
The girls recognised him first, and went over gingerly to talk to him, hoping that they hadn�t made a mistake. He was charming, after chatting to us, he said he had to go, he gave one hell of a concert, he gave us all reasons to be cheerful.
He was ain�t half a clever bastard, rest in peace Ian.

John Fitzpatrick <johnfitzpatrick@bun.com>
London, UK -

You were never lost for words. Now we are.
Patrick
London, UK -

Ian was the voice of my teen years - one of our countries' greatest live performers, I saw the Blockheads in Ayr last year and I just can't believe I'll never see him again. A sad & great loss, deeply missed.
Carl Defoe <carl@cdefoe.freeserve.co.uk>
Jarrow, UK -

Ian, I'll never forget your concert in Munich in the early eighties. Each of your songs went straight to my heart and to my feet. Thank you for everything you gave us and my condolences to the family.

Norbert Weck <nweck@gmx.de>
Munich, Germany -

Pleased I said my fairwell to you in Norwich in Feb. - Keep rockin' up there, we'll see glimpses.
Ian <ihead@msn.com>
Ipswich, UK -

Good bye Ian

Tsch�ss Berni
Bernhard Karkutt <MKarkutt@aol.com>
UK -

I rarely cry but the tears welled up in my eyes in the middle of Greenwich when I read that Ian had died. I first saw him heading Kilburn and the HighRoads back in the mid-late 1970s, then saw the Blockheads many times over the next 20 years. After everything he's gone through, though, he probably deserves a rest. Top geezer, Ian. Miss you.
Paul Wilkinson aka Wilko <wilko@crewealex.u-net.com>
London, UK -

Will miss your personality and sense of grace,fun and strength.It seems like just yesterday when we followed the Kilburns around the Home Counties.44 gigs in places such as the Albermarle Youthclub in Romford to Bibas Rainbow Room.The Kingstons were always there and rewarded by their loyalty.The pages of all these tributes show that you became more than a cult figure.I cannot express my sadness when the final taxi called at your door. thanks for the hundreds of hours of pleasure and good memories.If anyone deserved another4000 weeks it would surely be you old mate.Love and kisses . All the Kingstons
John Clifford <jclifford33@netscapeonline.co.uk>
UK -

To an Essex Bloke, from an Essex Girl
I lost my Uncle to Cancer in January aged 52, so it goes to prove that only the good die young.
Rest In Peace Ian, and give my Uncle a hug from me.
With Love
Cheryl
Barso
Cheryl
UK -

What a Waste ?? No way bonny lad , thanks for the memories.....HIT ME.. HIT ME..HITMEEEEEEEEEEE
Tim Carpenter <tim,carpenter@talk21.com>
Sunderland, UK -

Someone told me a couple years back Ian had been killed in a fire in his flat.
For me hearing of his passing now is harder than the first time.

I first saw Ian on TV one day in my youth. He was performing live on the lunch hour news broadcast from the Global TV studio in Toronto.
He was so calm in the interview - but when he sang - I was shocked! Quite an impression and I've loved him ever since.

There was a touching full page article in the National Post (Canada) yesterday (March 28).

See my tailor? His name's Simon. I know it's going to fit.
But it'll never look as good as it did on you Ian.

Thanks for everything.
Peace to your family.
Andrew
Andrew Lounsbury <hey123go@hotmail.com>
Toronto, Canada -

Thanks for the songs good luck.
Martin <fudcake@yahoo.co.uk>
Edinburgh, UK -

danke
Engelhardt <MEngel4598@aol.com>
butzbach, germany -

Even though I'm only just old enough to remember 'Hit Me ...' I been a fan for years. It surprises me how choked up reading all these messages makes me - I guess he meant more to me than I realised! Deepest sympathy to his family.

Cheers geezer,

KL
Karl Lloyd <krrcwl@hotmail.com>
London, UK -

I was first introduced to Ian's music at 13. I went round to see my mate Chris and he'd been given Do It Yourself for his birthday by the local vicar!! What a choice! His mum used to grind the organ for the local branch of God Inc. Anyway, Chris would love to play "uneasy sunny day hotsy totsy' and turn the volume up really loud for all the rude words. It used to scare my shitless as I was sure his mum would hear and come and give us a loud and huge repremand!
Ian's music, sense of humour and attitude influenced my life a great deal, he always made us laugh and still will!!
Losing him is a total sod, me and my friends will miss him loads.
Rob Arney <robarney@lineone.net>
UK -

Feb 6th, Palladium. Only Ian could have had Mo Mowlem standing up in a box yelling "Sex and Drugs and Rock and Roll"... Gig of a lifetime. Shall I mourn your decline...? NAH! Mustn't Grumble!
Jonathan Bridge <jonathan.bridge@btinternet.com>
London, UK -

I try my bst english: I just couldnt believe this bad news.
You and the blockheads were one of my favourest bands in the early eighties. Thank you for giving your heart and your soul to create a new kind of music. I hope you hadnt feel much pain and perhaps you may now stay at a calm nice place called paradise. May be youre actually looking at us and may be you were just thinkng: " Hey dont worry, its allrihgt here, every mankind is very friendly and we are all a hapy family. I wish you the best.
Jochen Steinhauer <steinhauerjochen@aol.com>
Stuttgart, Germany -

Thanx for wonderful inspiration and a very good time with your music, Ian! You'll live on in your songs and our thougts! Love & Respect, Steffi and Worzy
Steffi & Worzy <femme1001@aol.com>
Essen, Germany -

God bless from a long time fan and admirer. A wordsmith this land should be and is proud of. As the great man once said " walk down the road with no shoes and you will see someone with no feet". I carry that thought with me at all times. Thank you Ian and my condolences to the family.
God Bless
Nick White <brilleaux99@hotmail.com>
Royston, Herts, UK -

Sve sto je dobro kratko traje,kazu kod nas.
Steta,bas u zadnje vrijeme mi se "Hitmewithyourrythmstick"
mota po glavi.
Vidimo se gore
Gordan
Gordan Araci,arhitekt,Hrvatska
UK -

It's less than fair........God bless.
Jay Mitchell <jay1919@hotmail.com>
windham, usa -

You did good pal, - very good. You'll be sorely missed.
Best wishes from an old fan.
Alex Amato <dralex.amato@BTinternet.com>
NORTH LONDON, UK -

Ian Dury, we will sadly miss you. We were fans of yours as students in Newcastle back in the 70's, and played your music at all our parties. You were an inpiration as a polio survivor to others with disabilities. But your talent and individuality would have made you a shining diamond whatever life threw at you.
Dear Ian, keep making music
Mike and Geraldine
Geraldine and Mike
Ireland -

The rhythm sticks. It'll be around for a very, very long time...
Bob Loveday
UK -

A great character in a fantastic band, willing to go against the conventional

Sadly missed and respected

craig aston <craig.aston@btinternet.com>
Birmingham, UK -

just another casual fan,which has never been the same since hearing "new boots..." rest in peace.
garry clayton <gjclayton@yahoo.co.uk>
barnsley, UK -

My condolences to all of Ian Dury's family and friends.

He was great.
Glen Leis <gleis@enbridgeservices.com>
Newmarket, Ontario, Canada -

I have only just found some words to say. I have always been a fan but the first time was the Guildford Festival gig, since then about 10 gigs all over the UK, finishing with the Palladium. A part of me has gone. He was so brave, an example to us all. His memory will live on for ever
Jules <jules@dktaxis.demon.co.uk>
Heathfield, UK -

How I wish I'd had the chance to meet you and say thanks in person. My respects and best wishes to the family.
Ian Boughton <ianb@skywriter.demon.co.uk>
Oxford, UK -

So many memories where can I start! I had the good luck to meet Ian on many occasions and he was always such a warm friendly person. Best time has to be when me and my friend Jane went to see him in the 80's at croydon and we got invited backstage to meet Ian. I talked to him for ages and he gave me his gene vincent t.shirt which I will always cherish!. I am so sorry for the loss to his family and many fans but will always smile thinking of the many memories I have.What more can I say?!
LYNN <lynnlawlor66@hotmail.com>
LONDON, UK -

Gutted!!!
Ian <ian@caisteronsea.co.uk>
UK -

Ian Dury was `the bollocks`
"Plaistow Patricia" changed my life
It wont be the same without you mate
Dont get strapped with the ordinary
IAN NEVER DID
from a fan from east london/ essex originally
simon mednick <mednick@cwcom.net>
ilfracombe, UK -

Ladies & Gentlemen, Ian has left the building. There will be no-one big enough to fill your boots Ian. A shadow has been thrown over the colourful world of the Blockhead.
Have a good rest for you have been so busy.
R.T.B.C.Pt.3

Les.

Les <les@razortv.co.uk>
Swindon, UK -

Respect Ian. You earned it.

Pauline
P Cooper <xkq24@dial.pipex.com>
Manchester, UK -

Ian - You were the first singer who ever blew me away. You and the Blockheads were just the best band I've ever seen in my life. Thanks for your music, your laughter and your bravery in all things. I'm proud to say I was at the Palladium to see you last month. What a memory that leaves me with. I will miss you so much. Love always to you and to your family

Anne
Anne Cheesewright <ACheesewri@aol,com>
London, UK -

Will miss you Ian -what a waste XXXX
Lorraine <lorraine.s.baksh@nationwideisp.net>
UK -

We'll all miss you Ian. Your music will always be there forever for us to enjoy. My heart felt sorrow goes out to his family.
Simon Roberts <simon@ntmml.co.uk>
Manchester, UK -

As one of the priviledged audience who enjoyed the concert last month at the UEA, I can only echo all the above messages. The concert was excellent and Ian gave everything despite his obvious discomfort. The crowd responded with as much noise as we could and he was left in no doubt of the affection for him. He said that all the energy from the audience would give him another year. Sadly not. Reasons to be Cheerful? Ian's music............RIP Ian
Chris Andrews <cand743102@aol.com>
Norfolk, UK -

I shall mourn your decline with some Thunderbird wine !!
You were the best

Regards
Daren

Daren <daren.benfield@virgin.net>
Swanley, UK -

just when things started to get better you've disappeared
and someone else will be performing in the big rock
venue in the sky.gone but never forgotten!!!!
WHAT A WASTE.
stephen loudon <wee.stevie@talk21.com >
glasgow, UK -

Ian You will be missed in kent,You knew how to rock the house
jim <jim@ransom.totalserve.co.uk>
UK -

God, I'm gutted. Always loved the humour of your music and thought you were a dead nice bloke. My condolences and best wishes to your family.
Blox

Martin Bloxham <bloxy@lineone.net>
Plymouth, UK -

ditto all that. They just showed 'Hit Me With Your Rhythm Stick' on BBC2, and I hoped he was well. But then there was another song on straight away, so I knew what must have happened. It's not fair is it?
jim <jim.north@merseymail.com>
liverpool, UK -

32 years old and not done much,but one thing I've always been proud of(and always will be) is that "Hit me with your rhythm stick" was the first record I ever bought.
Thanks for that!
Deborah <dag68@btinternet.com>
Shropshire, UK -

wotta waste wotta waste wotta waste wotta bloody waste !!!!!!!!
Brian <bibrian@tinyworld.co.uk>
UK -

Thankyou for everything you ever did for music and charity. The music world will miss you. I am too young to remember when your first single was released but no one will ever forget your music and your efforts for charities and for music as a whole. Thank you.
Simon
Douglas, Isle of Man -

Just a casual fan really-
But saddened nevertheless. The records always made me smile.
That's what it's all about anyway.
(oh- and thanks for Drip Fed Fred).
Scott <rodas_s@oceancounty.lib.nj.us>
West Creek, NJ, USA -

Ian Dury - BIG MAN - BIG HEART. DIAMOND GEEZER.
NUFF SAID.
RESPECT.
dave <dj.peters@cableinet.co.uk>
bristol, UK -

Much too early!
All the best for the next life, Mr. Dury!

Petra Prelle <pprellehho@aol.com>
Hamburg, D -

Thanks for the music and showing us how to look at life.

Go to sleep now - youve done all you can with the day.

Dave
Dave <dave-price1@lineone.net>
Northam, UK -

Geezer.

Respect.
Mike Harbour <ricky_roma@hotmail.com>
Calgary, Canada -

To the biggest Big Man ever -

Aw ra best!!

With love and regret,

Roisin & Zack
Roisin & Zack
Paris, France -

I can't believe it. Have loved you since I was 15. Biggest regret is not being able to see you live in concert but caught the recent film of you and the Blockheads playing at Ronnie Scotts - excellent stuff as always.

Will treasure all my vinyl even more but will feel the loss now that you've gone. There might have been a Clever Trevor but the Clever Bastard was definitely you!

Deepest sadness and sincerest condolences to your family. There is only One Ian Dury.

Tina
Tina O'Malley <Bettina.Omalley@tesco.net>
Cambridge, UK -

I wanna be straight,
I'll never be tired of playing the records and knowing your great.

Sweet Ian Dury - Gracios.
Paul

Paul <ptwip@apexmail.com>
Waltham Abbey, Essex -

WHAT A WASTE!!
I am gutted by the news, Ian Dury was by far the best concert I have ever been to, and I have been to many. My nickname as a youth was "Blockhead", I am a big big fan. Rest in Peace Dear Ian.

joan bradshaw <pennylane2k@yahoo.com>
kissimmee, florida, usa -

Ian Dury was part of that amazing moment in music history
that blew the top of my late-adolescent head off and made
me see the possibilities. And he had a wicked sense of
humour. C'est si bon; c'est magnifique...
Heartfelt condolences, and many thanks.
GMBaxter
Vancouver, Canada -

the geezer is dead, long live the geezer ....
we will miss your originality, your humour, and your sheer style. my heart goes out to all those who love you and will miss you.
triona horrocks <trionahorrocks@hotmail.com>
UK -

Thanks for the great show, opening for Lou Reed at the Capital Theatre in Passaic, NJ in 1977. I had a blast!!!
Loved the records, still play them. There will never be another. God Bless & Goodbye for now!!!
Steve Viola
Brick, NJ, USA -

Thank you for your music,lyrics,fun,rock�n roll and your humanity
you spend. Never forget your influence and spirit you give us
in the early 80�s. Special thanks for the great music on the
album " Do it yourself " which i like very much.
My condolence and best wishes to your family.
Thank you old blockhead for your great work. I�m very sad.
Charles
Munich Germany
garin charles <garin.charles@.com.de>
munich, germany -

One (the only) reason to be proud of Harrow, Ian's birthplace. Used to see the Kilburns at Dingwalls and the Greyhound back in the day and once got the nerve up to thank him and shake my heros hand. Until this I always figured he'd be made Poet Laureat. Condolences to your family, yet you all are so lucky to have had him to call your own. daveallen
Dave Allen <davetrue@earthlink.net>
NYC, USA -

when i grow up i wanna be like you
loads of loads from luce X

lucy armitage
london, UK -

Ian you are and still will be an insparation to us all.
The first record i ever bought was New Boots and Panties
at the age of 12. It inspired me to get involved in music.

Your work on clearing Cancer from out of the cupboard inspired us all, you are and allways will be a Diamond Geezer love to your family sleep tight
love Mark xx
Mark <mark@ewstudio.prestel.co.uk>
UK -

A Giant - Ian you leave a great big 'ole but we're so glad that we were around to be in your audiences, to buy your music, to love your wit, humour and passion for life. All the best mate from us all. XXX
Jan
Dorking, UK -

Though the news is inevitable, the sadness is undeniable. So farewell, adios, good luck to the Renaissance geezer....poet...artist....role model....funkateer. What an inspiration to us all - the words, the passion, the man.
Ian - you will be sorely missed, but never forgotten
joe merrici <joe69xxx@hotmail.com>
London, UK -

Ian you will be missed by a lot of people but your music will go on. Ian Dury you was one hell of a person.
Mark Adamson <m_adamson@madnotmad.fsnet.co.uk>
Cambs, UK -

Heartbroken again.....lost another hero.....we must take solace in the memories he leaves behind, and swear to let his life inspire us to strive, to dream, to seek, to achieve......Ian was a punk Renaissance man, and a rare talent whose influence far exceeded his fame.....and we are all enriched for his having lived.

Peace.

-Leo Neil
Leo Neil <LeoN8@aol.com>
Kent Island, MD, USA -

Me and my mates as teens/early 20's used to get pissed and sing Alex Harvey and Ian Dury songs till we couldn't do it no more. Thanks for the memories Ian. You were with us all the way and gave us "reasons to be cheerful".
Brian <bdam@eisa.net.au>
Sydney, Australia -

Ian - an inspiration in so many ways - you will be sorely missed by all.
Patsy
Sunningdale, UK -

Ian...I hope one day my son Charlie will be as proud of me as your children can be of you.. the ultimate inspiration!! It always pissed me off that not EVERYONE I tried to get into the Blockheads got it, but through reading your messages today, so many of us did, the lucky ones!! You have been a huge part of my life since I was 9 and Ill never forget you!! Give Charlie C.a big kiss from all of us, he's drumming still sounds sooooo good!!
Love to all your family & Blockheads,
From Me & Mine, See you soon!!!
Dean <info@protectionracket.com>
Cornwall, UK -

On the money
Plenty of bunny
Always poignant
to the point
To a gentle man
from a grateful fan
Clive <Clive9@btinternet.com>
USA -

Brilliant person/performer and all-round bloody nice bloke.

Ian, you touched a whole generation and will be sorely missed.

Ian Schofield <schofi@hotmail.com>
Stockport, UK -

Ian,

You were right, I did see glimpses.

Patrick
Patrick
Amsterdam, Holland -

What a lovely geezer, what wonderful inventive music. Thank you so much Ian and God rest.
michael <mickey-one@mickey-one.fsnet.co.uk>
London, UK -

gutted

a true genius
Jim <jjimm@hotmail.com>
Dublin, Ireland -

You were (and still will be) a breath of fresh air.
Steve Wheeler <crs.tech@dial.pipex.com>
Lindford, UK -

Bye then x
SF
London, UK -

Thank you for the spirit, fun,the amazing shows, rock�n roll
and the great music I love it so much. Never forget you. You
spend my friends and me so much fun in our life.
Charles Garin <Garin Charles>
Munich, Germany -

I'm still taken aback by this. My condolences to his family and friends.
M.S. Guerin <greasy@baynet.net>
Thunder Bay, Ontario Canada -

Goodbye and God Bless to a true individual.
Martin
Essex, UK -

when we're torn from mortal coil
we leave behind a counterfoil
it's what we did and who we knew
and that's what makes this story true

The Passing Show
Dave Gorman <dave.gorman@virgin.net>
London, UK -

Hope you find peace. Thank You,Ian
Michael <m.chmielewski@planet-interkom.de>
Duesseldorf, Germany -

IAN WAS A VERY TALENTED SONG WRITER, HAD A GREAT VOICE AND HAD LOADS OF RAW MUSICAL TALENT. NOT ONLY THIS BUT HE WAS A GENUINELY NICE BLOKE. THERE'S NOT MANY PEOPLE YOU CAN TRULY SAY THIS ABOUT. WE'LL MISS YOU IAN.
R BISBY
ROTHERHAM, UK -

A***holes, B*******, F****** C****s & Pr**** -

Love Al
Alan Mitchell
B/stoke, UK -

you hit me with your rhythm stick !

RIP !
uwe groke, swr3 <uwe.groke@swr3.de>
baden-baden, GER -

Ian you've hit me with your rythm stick!
thanx
Donovan
Donovan John Szypura <don@gate49.com>
Zurich, Switzerland -

Seeing all those condolences it looks like yet another full house. And rightly so. There was never any other artist who sounded so eloquent within his cockney environment, never one who sounded so positive within his yourthful anger. Ian is gone, and so is yet another part of my sweet teenage memories. Fare well Ian.
john w. kolff <johnwkolff@insightkenya.com>
Nairobi, Kenya -

What a waste! Had the pleasure of seeing ID & TB at Glastonbury in 1985 - great!!! New Boots and Panties - no record collection should be without it.
God rest your soul Ian, we'll miss you!!!

Lucie
B'stoke, UK -

Thanks for your shining moment, Ian,
and thanks for sharing it with us.

I grew up a couple o' miles from Upminster myself.
Not an easy place to shine from, but you were SO
BRIGHT!!!!!!! :)))

What an achievement.

Not a waste.

Love, Catherine xxx
(once of Ockendon, Essex. Now of Brighton - the shiny place).

Catherine <cath@bobcat.demon.co.uk>
Brighton, UK -

We have lost a fine wordsmith and a true gentleman, who bore a terrible illness with a remarkable mixture of dignity, bravery and honesty. I will always remain touched by the interview that Ian gave on Channel 5 a few months ago.
Ian,your stage presence, your knack for writing cheeky,chirpy tunes and your ability to front one of the best bands of the last twenty-five years will be sorely missed.
Rest In Peace,
Yours respectfully,
Aidan D.
aidan doherty
ballymena, UK -

So many great lyrics, so many great songs to remember you by.... you even managed to get the crowd going in concert at Croydon last year - no mean feat!
Nick <nickvine@excite.co.uk>
London, UK -

Thanks Ian for the best gigs I'll ever go to.
All the best mate from a fan.
Mike Murphy <Mike@beap.co.uk>
London, UK -

I know I wrote Walking Stick ------ that's what the silly cow used to call it!
cd
UK -

Inspirational
Entertaining
Witty
Funny
Clever
Genius
BUT DEFINITELY NOT A WASTE!!!

I was just thinking of you at the weekend, Ian.
I was going to play Plaistow Patricia when I heard and discovered the CD was already in!!
I was talking to my mate who introduced me beyond the singles with the same song and Fucking Ada and recalled laughing non-stop!!
I remembered how my mother always used to refer to Hit Me with Your Walking Stick and saying it was a stupid record without appreciating the wit and poetry behind it.
I remembered bravely playing Plaistow Patricia and Fucking Ada to my dad, and how he laughed!! He then nicked the tape and played it to all the neighbours!
THANK YOU IAN FOR ALL THE JOY YOU HAVE BROUGHT - THE AMOUNT OF ENTRIES IN THIS BOOK SPEAKS VOLUMES.
Condolences to those close to Ian
Far and wide he will never be forgotten!

cd
London, UK -

DIE BESTEN GEHEN ZUERST!!!!
JAE
ESSEN, GERMANY -

Yesterday I had 2 emails. Both were from friends in England telling me the news. And, hey, I'm not in the fan club...not surrounded by Blockhead mates.

I've been working in Thailand for 3 months...I was home for Glastonbury and was disappointed. Only band...only person... I REALLY wanted to see. But of course we understood.

My brother was into 'Purple'. I saw Ian on the Whistle Test, I think, and recorded those Christmas shows with a tape recorder in front of the telly. Listened to them all year.

Let's face it...most of us didn't know Ian. I didn't. But lots of us felt we connected with him. On the radio or at a gig. The Blockheads were (and hopefully are) a fine band.

As I write it is 90 degrees...which is about as hot as it was last time I saw Ian and the band at The Academy.

Love to all who were close to him.

Jem x

Jem Price <jemprice@hotmail.com>
Bangkok, Thailand -

All I know about Ian has come through my association with the Madness Mailing List. So many people on the list have said so many good things about Ian, both when he was alive and now that he's passed on. Really, I know nothing about Ian, but when I heard of his death I still felt sad, and the world will miss such a character. My condolences to those who were close to him, and I'm sure he will be missed by many fans just as much.
Peter Bament <chm7pwb@leeds.ac.uk>
Leeds, UK -

WHAT A WASTE ONE OF THE NATIONS GREATEST LYRICISTS /POETS/ACTORS /ETC/ETC MISS YOU RAM THAT RHYTHM STICK UP GOD'S KHYBER.
liam
sheffield, UK -

The amount of love and saddness and yes, humor, that is evident here is testimate to Ian's place in the hearts of his fans and the other musicians who knew him. Bless you, Ian.
Carol Tarlen <ctarlen@att.net>
San Francisco, US -

Dear Ian,
Only after the last one who knew you has gone,
you won�t be there anymore. It�ll be over and done.
Rest assured you will be remembered for a long time.
A million thanks for all reasons to be cheerful.
Cheers.
Maarten.
Maarten van Holst Pellekaan <holstp@zonnet.nl>
Uithoorn, NL -

Ian, you have given so many people "Reasons to be Cheerful." An inspirational, witty and beautiful spirit. Thanks for the best gigs ever in Waterford and Dublin. You have shown me that anything is possible, if you put your mind and spirit into it.
Derek - thinking of you, and everyone else who had the honour of knowing Ian.
Jackie Bourke
Dublin, Ireland

Jackie Bourke <jackiedassia@hotmail.com>
Dublin, Ireland -

Ian, you really hit a lot of people with your rythm stick.
Enjoy your live in heaven, with all the other fantastic people up there. Rest in peace, and may your song live forever after. S�ren
S�ren Nancke <body@cool.dk>
Copenhagen, Denmark -

Thank you Ian!

KOHEI NOMURA <shop@bluemask-jp.com>
Koshigaya, JAPAN -

I first heard Ian's music on the legendary KSAN in San Francisco, when I lived in the bay area in the late 70s. I was locked in immediately, and ran out to buy whatever product was available, a couple of import singles at the time. The songs still bring a smile after all these years, and this was clearly a man who triumphed over adversity by putting a smile on his own face, and the faces of his fans. I'm sad to hear the news and I'll miss him.
Dennis Mitchell <abbeyrd@lvcm.com>
Las Vegas, US -

I will miss your interesting,funny and optermistic view of the world.You were an insperation to us all.Goodbye sweet Gene Vincent.
joel bailey <joelbailey@thamesideyoutharts.freeserve.co.uk>
staines, surrey UK -

The number of messages on here after only one day says it all.

I'm as choked as everyone else. What a waste.
The Big Man <scum@manutd.com>
Leeds, UK -

Rythm Stick was the first single I ever bought. I was about 12 and my dad wouldnt let me play the B side because it had the word bastard in the title. last year I spent a morning in a rehersal studio with Ian and the blockheads and relayed the story to him, naturally he just laughed. We filmed an interview with him and the thing that will always stick in my mind was his optomism. Despite all his suffering he remained the ultimate cheerful Chappie, his attitude was "I've had a good life and if it all ends tommorow I can't complain" Tommorow is here now but it's not the end because you will live on in our memories as some one who inspired so many. It was a pleasure to spend that morning with you Ian, thanks for the music.
Dennis Lennie <dennis.lennie@lnn-tv.co.uk>
London, UK -

Ian was my first 'pop idol'. When I was 14 I painted a mural on my bedroom wall, a six foot black and white copy from the cover of 'New Boots & Panties' - so you could say I grew up with him! Now I'm a writer and his influence lives on, his humour and peotry remain an influence on my work. I'm only sorry I won't be able to show it to him. He will be missed. My heart goes out to his family. XXXX
Mikklemus <Mikklemus@AOL..com>
London, UK -

I was at college in '78 and we had a very old record player in the student union office. New Boots monopolised the play list for at least a year. It defined our generation.
I finally got to see him 20 years later, as fresh an orginal as ever. A genius
"I'll miss the voice that called my heart"

Steve Tracey <stevie_tracey@hotmail.com>
Portsmouth, UK -

What sad news, but what great memories we have, Hammersmith Odeon May 1978: Max Wall
takes the stage and the crowd roar their approval, he wants to do a song about Buster Keaton,
the crowd want to see him do his trademark eccentric dancing, he decides to do the dancing
and leaves the stage, after a short pause enter Mr. Dury and he is not best pleased with our
behaviour, he gives us a telling off and informs us that Max will return to do his song and we
will listen, and thats what happened, Max was heard in complete silence.

I know Ian and the Blockheads were going to open the new Mean Fiddler venue The Rex in Stratford
on the 9th April, if anyone is reading this that can arrange it may I suggested that it goes ahead
as a tribute to Ian. The Blockheads as planned plus performers that Ian was close to, maybe Madness, Billy Bragg,
Rico etc.

To close, thanks for the very good times Ian from two Southend Blockheads, Tony and Drew.
And may your family be comforted by the very real affection for you that is being shown
by these messages.
Anthony Whitworth <anthonywhitworth/MAIN/MC1@MCMAIN>
Southend-on-sea, UK -

Alright Ian. "...Rhythm Stick" was the fist single I ever bought. I was about 10 years old. My Dad wouldn't tell me what one was until I was old enough, now I'm 32 and I remain unsure. Well done to you. Lived the dream. All those messages...Good luck.
The Ranting Stickman <mongor@mailcity.com>
LONDON, UK -

I have always said that Ian was an understated genius and a poet and it's nice to know so many people agree! His lyrics and ability to put words together has always been inspiring and a joy - be they dirty, cheeky or beautiful!! On the few occasions I briefly met him I found him to be courteous, intelligent and funny - and a happy bloke! I cannot bring myself to be tearful, as the memories and songs will always make me smile!!
I am glad he does not have to suffer now and my thoughts go to his family.
Thanks Ian!!
Claire <clairus99@hotmail.com>
London, UK -

I'm sure you're on your way to Hendon as I write
Matthew <mattdiamond@yahoo.co.uk>
London, UK -

Ian, you were the original Diamond Geezer. A true one off. I'm choked
Kaka Tim <libtid@library.leeds.uk>
Leeds, UK -

To quote from one of his own songs:-
"There ain't half been some clever bastard, let's hope there's lots more to come"
He will be missed.

owen collins <owen.collins@telewest.co.uk>
woking, UK -

God speed, you'll never be forgten. Steve Harley paid tribute well to his fellow Cockney rebel at the Brook, I felt you were there.
lawrence diamond <lawrencediamond@hotmail.com>
southampton, UK -

I remember seeing Ian Dury and the Blockheads when they
opened for Lou Reed in '78. I went straight out and bought
New Boots and Panties. I count Dury as among my significant
influences as a songwriter. I offer my condolences to his
surviving friends/family, but I encourage you to remember
that this is a person who really made the most out of the
hand that he was dealt. For that, we should celebrate his
life.
Bryan (Bobo Bonobo) <classact@brick.net>
St. Louis, MO, USA -

Ian was my favorite little bloke since 1975. His twisted body belied the beauty within him. He is in Heaven now, drinking up a storm with Tony Newley. Rest in Peace. Go to sleep now, Francis, close your eyes.
X.Ray Burns <xrayburns@dellnet.com>
Kearny, New Jersey United States -

oi oi
you will always be the guv'nor.
bless you.
davey
Dave Pope <D.Pope@erd.co.uk>
London, UK -

A great artist in mind and thougts, will be remembered for those who wish they have lived for the case of his life.
Henk Gruis <h.gruis@home.nl>
Groningen, Netherlands -

Gone but not forgotten.
Not by a long shot!
Colin <mohairsweets@yahoo.co.uk>
Canada -

The world is a lesser place without "the Count Dracular of spectacular venaculer". Saw I.D & The B's twice in 1978 and 1985. 1978 was part of one of the best weekends of my life (e-mail for fuller account if interested) and 1885 in the pouring rain at Glastonbury - feel deeply sadened by his passing - what a guy
Greg Johmson <greg.johnson@newcastle.gov.uk>
Newcastle-u-Tyne, UK -

Dear, sadly missed Lord Upminster, you always were a few stops beyond Barking and the world was better for it.
Dan
London, UK -

We have all lost a man of dignity. A modern poet. A clever, witty, unique man. What he has left us can never be taken away, in music and in spirit. If Ian has left one overwhelming legacy, it is not to wallow in self-pity and to be cheerful.
Raise a glass to the Cockney Bob Dylan.
Simon King <simon.king@bmg.co.uk>
London, UK -

Keep chewin on it, Ian.
Ian
Leeds, UK -

Thirteen years old and on holiday with my parents having a boring time. Then I hear "What a Waste " for the first time and a summer evening is locked forever in my memory. Feel like you've been a mate ever since. God Bless.
Dominic <domls11@hotmail.com>
Leeds, UK -

Thank you!
You'll be remembered!
Trond B
Trondheim, Norway -

I'm really glad you came - we were glad that you were there. We'll remember you as part of our past.

Brigitte & Harald
Harald Clau� <Artexkom@aol.com>
M�lheim, Germany -

We raised a glass to you memory, and recited the busmans prayer. Your songs are as fresh in our heads as the day we all first heard them. It felt like losing one of our own.

North Herts Motorcycle Action Group <NhertsMAG@aol.com>
Baldock, UK -

The Blockheads were the soundtrack to my childhood and I will never forget you. Some people can't be replaced.

Deepest sympathy to your family and friends.

Paul F.
Paul Flanders <paul_flanders@www.culture.gov.uk>
UK -

One of my childhood heros, I was blessed with meeting him twice.
a truly inspirational man. To his wife and family, my wishes go with you.
Cheers mate, much missed
Lordironballs <lordironballs@yahoo.com>
Sutton, UK -

Thank You Ian.

Steve Battye <compo@harpanon.fsnet.co.uk>
Norwich, UK -

A true one-off. Gone but never forgotten
Dyl
UK -

Thanks for everything Ian - you weren't half a clever
bastard. RIP.
Andy Breen <azb@aber.ac.uk>
Aberystwyth, UK -

Saw you live in '81. Have been hooked since. Gave me many reasons to be cheerful - one less today. Thanks. R.I.P.
James C
Carrickfergus, N.I. -

see ya mate
Steve <the_dru@yahoo.com>
UK -

Just this weekend I passed a poster advertising an upcoming gig ,and I thought YES!!! got to 'ave a bit of that, what a terrible shame, for the world . Reasons to be cheerful ? Well we still have the music and the memories
Justin <justin.hetterlry@sortex.com>
london, UK -

You have changed my world, little big one......gonna miss you....
Paul Koppers
Nijmegen, Netherlands -

Thanks for the laughs.

Rest in peace.
Colin G
UK -

So long Ian and thanks for all the memories. You were the
greatest rock performer of your day and you leave behind one
of the all-time great albums in New Boots and Panties. You
were an inspiration to me and many others who admired you
for your talent, wit, spirit and enthusiasm. You were a
National Treasure. I will never forget you.
Bob Wyatt <robertwyatt@hotmail.com>
London, UK -

Rest In Peace Ian
The world will never be the same without you.
You was a inspiration to us all and a utter genius.

My thoughts go to your family and close freinds

Gary

GARY SAUNDERS <GARYSAUNDERS40@HOTMAIL.COM>
Bracknell, Berkshire, UK -

Although I think The Big Guy made a terrible mistake by taking Ian, I really do hope Ian is jamming up there with the rest of the gang.
My condolences to the family, to friends, to all who knew him, to all the fans.
I'll miss his Genius, Energy, Humor and Idea.
Rest In Peace.
D@di <dadi@inet.hr>
Zagreb, Croatia -

MAY YOU REST IN PEACE, IAN
NICHOLAS
COLOGNE, GERMANY -

IAN, you were a genius, you are now a god
Only Arseholes, Bastards and pricks did not understand the message you were conveying in your own charming and unhibited way.

Although i'm only 20, I have been listening to your music for several years, introduced to it by "my old man". I never thought i would get to see u live, but luckily, in December 1999 I saw you at the Warwick Arts Centre (the finest gig I have ever been to in my short life).

If I could reach half the people in my life as you have in yours I would consider myself very lucky.
YOU WILL BE GREATLY MISSED.
YOUR MUSIC LIVES ON.
THANX, ROCK ON !
Scott Haynes <shaynes.student@kidderminster.ac.uk>
Stourbridge, UK -

When I was finding out what music was all about, I listened to anything I could find. Every now and then I can across something that was like a slap across the face. New Boots and Panties was one of those. I suspect Ian never bettered it musically. 'My Old Man' stands out for being just so honest. Plaistow Patricia stands out for inducing major panic when my Mum came into my room just as it started.
There will never be another like you Ian, and the Worls will be poorer for it
Andy Corbett <andycorbett@tesco.net>
Slough, UK -

Yeah, I know.
"Tired of taking drugs and staying up late."
Who said they don't affect you. Sorry.

Richard
Melbourne, Australia -

"I wanna be straight, I wanna be straight.
I'm sick of taking drugs and staying up late."

Bye, mate.
Richard <alphacent@eisa.net.au>
Melbourne, Australia -

A great musician and a great human being.
Mick & Chris
London, UK -

I remember how much me and my friends raved over "Hit Me
With Your Rhythm Stick" when it came out. Back then singles
were only about 79p and as a 13 year old even that
seemed quite a lot of money but luckily my mate Chris got a
copy which needless to say we caned like mad...
Growing up just outside London, in High Wycombe, I could
always relate to the people who populate that
often overlooked working-class side of outer London and the
Home Counties and who he used to observe so keenly
in his songs.

They don't make them like Ian Dury anymore
a true original and an inspiration for everyone.
Andy <Bodger49@hotmail.com>
Sheffield, UK -

"I miss the voice that called my heart". Hope you find peace.
Susan
Edinburgh, UK -

will be missed. reds and yellows purples blues and greens.
gardner <lime st@aol.com>
chandler arizona, usa -

R.I.P. IAN

Stay Ahead

Homeless Headz
Dundee, UK -

A great musician and a great human being.
Mick & Chris
London, UK -

You gave us so much pleasure. At least the pain is over RIP.
Loads of love from us all.
CLIFF & GILL
LONDON, UK -

Thanks for sharing some time down here with us. God bless you Ian.
steve kong
london, UK -

A very sad loss.

He was the influence behind so many people. They, along with millions of others, will miss him terribly.

May he spirit live on.

ID. R.I.P.
Robert Dodd <absolutely@england.com>
London, UK -

What a Waste! What a performer! There'll NEVER be another like you mate. I'm off to sink a pint in your memory. Rest in peace. Tony
Tony Baker <tony.baker@chelseafc.net>
London, UK -

Ian,

You surely were a clever bastard. And a clever bastard we will all miss, though selling Rolexes from Brixton Market (You can't get the batteries)to angels should keep you entertained.

You certainly kept us very entertained for 20 years - I just wish that I would have the chance to see you live. Still we will always have your music.

RIP Mate
Waynster <wayne@blackandwhite.demon.nl>
Amsterdam, The Netherlands -

Ian you are a giant
Oz
UK -

Dear Ian!
Your death has not been in vain: you gave so much to people in your life, and you have continued to do so, even in afterlife. You should know for sure, that people will always feel thankful for what you did.
Rest in peace.
D. P. <3points@dp.dk>
Smoerumnedre, Denmark -

New Boots and panties was the first album I ever owned, at one point I could recite the lyrics word for word (and probably still can if I put my mind to it)

Thank you Ian for being.......well, you.........

Floyd <floyd@soupdragons.freeserve.co.uk>
Coventry, UK -

I HOPE THAT WHERE YOUVE GONE THE LADIES DRINK RIBENA AND THAT YOUVE A GOOD SUPPLY OF RUM AND MANDIES.IM A BLOODY BUHDIST ANYWAY SO MAYBE THINGS GOT OUT OF ORDER AND YOUVE GONE AWAY FOR A BIT.LOVE AND STRENGTH TO ALL YOUR FAMILY.
Danny Boy
The Angel London, UK -

I�m very shocked about Ian Dury�s dead. He was one of the guys made the seventies liveable. "Those who god loves die
young." Farewell to a better world.
Stefan Kesthelji <neptuns.world@planet-interkom.de>
Hannover, Germany -

Ian...thanks for being here...
With love
Hans Peters
Hans Peters <hans.j.peters@nl.origin-it.com>
Eindhoven, The Netherlands -

Thanks for your help and inspiration.
Brian & Maria Claydon
UK -

The world is a much duller place without you Ian. Thanks for the inspiration.

I will miss you.
Andrew Duke <andrew@ascent.pen.uk.com>
London, UK -

Ian Dury, a man who proved there was only one way to live your life, with a smile on your face and a song in your heart. Thank you for your wonderful music and words, an inspiration to us all. Rest in peace.
Richard Groves <r.m.groves@bham.ac.uk>
Birmingham, UK -

I will miss his great talent, humour and insight.
My thoughts are with his family.
J. Lederer <ledererjh@aol.com>
London, UK -

An inspiration as a musician and performer but most of all a solid gold example of the kind of person we all wish that we were.
The light of human spirit has rarely shone so bright and the world is now poorer for this loss
Paul Dobie <paul@pdobie.demon.co.uk>
Lytham St Annes, UK -

thanks for everything. you were one of the sexiest people ever. the only person who could lure me into goldiggers in chippenham! my 'fuck off noddy' t- shirt nearly did for my gran!
much love, sal

sal
UK -

I saw you three months ago in Croydon, what a show, what a life, thanks love Lisa and Justin
Justin and Lisa <crohamblues@lisajust.freeserve.co.uk>
croydon, UK -

Turning the sound down on "New Boots..." so your Mum wouldn't hear, all those brilliant lyrics, a lot made you laugh, some made you cry, Ian gave you so many reasons to be cheerful, just listening to him talk on TV - he always said something which made you think. He'd never admit it, he was too self-effacing and praise embarrassed him, but I'm sure he helped an awful lot of people the way he dealt with his illness. I never met him but he always felt like a mate, and when you lose a mate you've had for well over twenty years, it feels bad. You don't miss someone 'til they're gone, then you realise there'll never be anyone like him.
Love to his family and friends who are finding it very difficult at this time.
Karl Roper <cloudlark@aol.co.uk>
Wirksworth, UK -

From the deserts of Sudan
To the gardens of Japan
From Milan to Yuccatan
Every woman every man... who has been touched by Ian's work will never forget.

I saw Ian on many occasions, from the early days to his recent shows. The world is a poorer place now.
I'm gonna miss you Ian. I only knew you through your work but my heart goes out to those who knew you in person.

Neil Osborne <no@barclays.net>
Croydon, UK -

Thanks for the fantastic songs you brought us
saw you playing live in the seventies...will nver forget

frank & jolanda
Frank van Asseldonk <f.vanasseldonk@cognito.nl>
eindhoven, the Netherlands -

May you rest in peace, matey. Thanks for the memories. Now HIT MEeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!
Ian <spudh@hotmail.com>
Ireland -

In the eary 80s a friend, home from the UK, said Ian was
the sexiest performer he and his girlfriend had ever seen.
Ian and the Blockheads( with Wilco from the Feelgoods )
played Auckland in the mid 80s. My friend was right. One of
the great ones. Not since John Lennon have I been so saddened
by the loss of not only a consummate rock performer but a
beautiful poet - not to mention the most human of people.
Arssoles, bastards, fucking cunts and pricks - no,I dont
feel any better. Love from Downunder to Ian's Family.
Lord Upminster we miss you already. LOVE and PEACE - DJ O.B.Livion
Graham CHAPLOW <minoanmusic@xtra.co.nz>
Napier, New Zealand -

Blockheads! Blockheads! Blockheads! Blockheads! Blockheads! Blockheads! Blockheads! Blockheads! Blockheads! Blockheads! Blockheads! Blockheads! Blockheads! Blockheads! Blockheads!
Shin Kaneko <s-kaneko@lilac-net.co.jp>
Tokyo, Japan -

Here in the desert, he will be missed.
Philip <p.j.sanchez@worldnet.att.net>
Phoenix, Arizona, USA -

Grey is Such a Pity. The world will be a greyer place without the irreverent, magical, poetic genius of Ian Dury, Lord Upminster. The best gigs I ever saw. From New Boots... to Mr Lovepants you gave us so many wonderful songs. You'll be much missed, but if there's a Reason To Be Cheerful today, it is your legacy of music, poetry and your unique philosophy,which will never be forgotten. Sincere condolences to all your family, Norman Watt-Roy and the gang - and to Blockheads everywhere.
Vivian Wells, Tisbury, Wiltshire UK.
Viv Wells <vivwells@hotmail.com>
Tisbury, Wilts, UK -

Your music and life touched so many, and you will be missed by all. My regrets to your family, may they find the joy in your music and inspiration from your life for all of the years ahead. Just as you too have inspired countless others during your all too fleeting visit to this fragile world.
Chris K
Colchester, UK -

What a glorious man.His cracking pop and prose will outlast all of us.Massive love from the Humber delta
KEMPEZ
UK -

Had the great pleasure of meeting you on two occasions .Once in 89 wqhen you came to do your poetry here in little old Stroud ("I'm not a poet I'm a flippin'lyricist!") and more cecently 18 months ago after the Cheltenham Fesatival Of Literature, where you were awesome in conversation with John Walsh before a 1000 strong literary audience!. When a gushy punter got up and thanked you for all you'd done for disabled people and what a shining example you were- you poo-pooed him in your own inimitable style Ian- "Disable" Don't f-ing patronise me mate-there's geezers far bleedin' worse off than me-with no arms,no legs.no mouth etc!
So at risk of being equally boring and patronising - can i just say you've inspired me so much..what a top geezer.

Crispin Thomas/Out To Lunch <crispin@ctmuk.freeserve,co.uk>
STROUD, UK -

Saw Ian and The Blockheads at the Festival Theatre in Adelaide - everlasting memories.
Albert & Karen Todd <atodd.arcom.com.au>
Adelaide, Australia -

"Sex and drugs and rock'n'roll" Forever! We'll never forget you, Ian!
Gunther Keck <Eisskeck2@aol.com>
Hamburg, Germany -

Thankyou for your inspiration, you will be truly missed. RIP Ian.
Rob Aitken <moley_the_ref@talk21.com>
Plymouth, UK -

What a sad day. I first saw Ian at Oxford for the 'New Boots and Panties' tour. I went into the mens loo and two nuns with mirror sun glasses and violin cases handed me a card with 'You are invited to an audience with Pope Pious the II' written on it' and an address, after seeing the best concert I had ever seen I went to the address on the card and there was a party with 3 local bands, many barrels of beer and Ian and the blockheads, what a great night, what a long time ago. I felt proud for them when 'Hit me with your rhythm stick' , 'What a Waste' and others made into the charts and I bought the singles the day they came out. Later I saw them a number of times at the Hammersmith Odeon and his musical 'Apples' at the Royal Court. I cant fully express my sadness in seeing him go, he was a big part of me and his personality and music helped me find myself during some hard years when I was younger. He often seemed to turn up at places and events that my partner and I used to be a part of. Watermans Art Centre (Peter Blake exhib), Riverside Studios , Dingwalls dance Hall.

My other half was going to send him a letter last month to tell him how much he had meant to both of us over the years
but now it is to late, hope he hears this some how.

All our love, Roger and Louise
Roger Clarke <roger@oxford99.prestel.co.uk>
Oxford, UK -

'I could be the driver of an articulated lorry' - like Roger, Roger the truck driver on 1984 tour and Jane will love you and miss you forever. Where are you Pip, Spider, Wad and all our old friends.
Roger Mercer <rojan.vef@wanadoo.fr>
UK -

No one will ever better the line " ...came home to find anotherGentleman's kippers under the grill, so he sanded off his winkle with his Black and Decker drill..."

Thank you for the this and many others!
Herr Gee
Exeter, UK -

Rest in Peace.
Paul
Los Angeles, CA, USA -

Condolences from Upminster

Ian,

Gone, but never forgotten. You were a truly diamond bloke.
Rock on !
Mike Passway
UK -

To our beloved Ian,

You will be remembered this evening at the Loop event at the
roof Gardens. Todays performers owe you!
Joe Atkins <JoeADA@compuserve.com>
Swanage, UK -

R.I.P. it up Ian!
R.H.M.Straatman <rhmstraatman@hotmail.com>
Rotterdam, Holland -

Saw you many times in London in the 70s. Thanks for the memories!
Steve
Stockholm, Sweden -

'Wake up and make love' was frequently played on the jukebox in the pub I used to frequent as a sixteen year old back in 1978 - literally a lifetime ago. Condolences to the Dury family.
Phil Lloyd
Perth, Australia -

I WILL MOURN YOUR DECLINE WITH SOME THUNDERBIRD WINE.........RIP....CHEERS!
CT <CHRIS.T@HERRIOTS.CO.UK>
ASHTON--U-LYNE, UK -

Thanks for some great music Ian... you will be missed.
RIP
Stacy
Melbourne, Australia -

With the loss of Ian Dury the world has become a less colourful place.

Richard M. Wolff <rmwolff@xs4all.nl>
Delft, NL -

Ian is gone, his music will live for ever!
Kjell Magnusson
UK -

When asked, I would always say that my favourite artist was Ian Dury. It never sounded very fashionable but I didn't mind. The news of his death filled the front pages of the broadsheets. How many pop stars will achieve that? Not many I bet. But Ian was always more than just a pop star and his mind was a very precious flower indeed. Us Blockheads have always known it but it is nice to see his huge talent has not gone unrecognised. He certainly gave us plenty of Reasons To Be Cheerful. Crank it up and party on. Ian would most certainly approve.
Simon Neil <simon@quasarelectronics.com>
BISHOPS STORTFORD, UK -

With the loss of Ian Dury the world has become a less colourful place.

Richard M. Wolff <rmmwolff@xs4all.nl>
Delft, NL -

Being a huge Clash fan, I cannot thank Ian Dury & The Blockheads enough for their help in creating some of the best music ever made - whether it be by the Blockheads themselves, The Clash (with whom Mickey Gallagher and Norman Watt-Roy worked with from 1979 onwards) or other bands influenced by them. Ian, you will be sadly missed by all of us. RIP Ian :-{
Brian Powell <clashrocker@start.com.au>
Newcastle, Australia -

I mourn your decline with some Thunderbird wine and a black handkerchief.
Goodbye Ian, and Thanx for the lift mate!
Barry
Barry Thompson <bthompson@quante.com.au>
Sydney, Australia -

Danke, Ian!
Wolfgang Koch <vollherbst-koch@t-online.de>
Endingen am Kaiserstuhl, Germany -

Thanks for the music and the laughter
Gary Hitchcock
UK -

RIP IAN.GOD BLESS YOU AND SINCERE CONDOLENCES TO YOUR FAMILY.
David Ripley <dripley@microed.com.au>
Australia -

every time we say goodbye, we die a little
christian <www.fuchsmotorrad@aol.com>
kassel, germany -

Rock 'n' roll have had a sad time. Ian Dury was one of the really great personalities in modern music!
Gumpo
Vasteras, Sweden -

Very sorry to hear of Ian's death. I hope the family is hanging in there.
Cath Modini <modini@fan.net.au>
Gold Coast, Australia -

He influenced many people's lives, including mine. I know his family must be at a loss, but at the same time must also be celebrating the life of such a man who helped so many others. I am sure all people involved with him must have been proud to work alongside Ian. RIP
Australian Fan <Fan>
Melbourne, Australia -

Jeez. I just heard the bad news. I send my condolences to Ian's family.
I always felt that by listening to Ian Dury I was part of a special group.
Therefore:
IIIII'M SPASTICUS!

Thanks mate.
Gregory Besharah <za-zu@home.com>
Saskatoon, Canada -

Your Sound is in our heard!
Bernhard Burger <mail@burger-bernhard.de>
Endingen, Germany -

I'LL MISS YOU AND CHARLEY TOO!
AW RA BEST!
DON NOBLE <NOBLED@CAMERONDIV.COM>
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA -

rest easy.
aw <ashleywilliams@home.com>
UK -

You really "gave it some of that"! A true inspiration. You will live forever.
Katie <fitcherama@aol.com>
Los Angeles, USA -

they will welcom you with open arms, only the great will sing in that choirand you will be up the front
to me you will not be gone only in the next room waiting for me to find you
ONE TOP MAN

leslie dart <les@flitflowfreeserve.com.uk>
flitwick, UK -

It so sad that the good die young. In a business of such
mediocrity, it was a pleasure to be exposed to Ian Dury's
original sounds & biting wit. Unfortunately, most of those
who use the phrases "Sex & Drugs & R&R" or "Wake Up & Make
Love to me" probably have no idea of the origin. But we do.
R.I.P. Ian.
Bruce K
New York, USA -

I thank you for your rich poetry and musical genius which has deeply enriched my life. So one's music has given me greater pleasure.
Danny Estrella
Pacifica, CA, USA -

I'm going to miss you bruvver. We all are
Thanks
Bill Blunt <prickle@xtra co. nz>
Auckland, New Zealand -

I did not realy know Ian but, during WW II I was an evacuee living with Mrs Dury [Ian's Mother] in Mevagissey, Cornwall. My Mother, Elizabeth, Sister Joan and myself wish to pass on our condolences to his family. I would be very interested to find out if Mrs. Dury {Snr] or another evacuee who I only remember as Bubbles are alive and see this, would please contact me.
Richard Bennett <rbennet1@msn.com>
St. Albert, Alberta, Canada -

thanks for helping me grow up, Ian Dury. You,ve sunk my boats now, though!
Adam
Stockport, UK -

I was about to look at you last year in London.
Though it seemed to be cheerful and felt relieved....
Good-by and see you
Cheers! Ian.

yuki <yum@cds.ne.jp>
Yokohama, Japan -

Never the seasoned up hyena, but a true Lord in the noblest sense of the word.
Your family must be proud.

Steve Griffiths
Sydney, Formerley of Stepney
meltingchoir@yahoo.com
Steve Griffiths <meltingchoir@yahoo.com>
Sydney, Australia -

Ian was one of my very favorite artists because so much humanity and wit shone through every song, and in the end, that is what counts. As others have said, just thinking of his many wonderful songs always brings a big grin to my face, and the world seems so much happier a place. One of my greatest experiences was being at the benefit concert for Charley at the Town and Country club while on a visit to England - incredible!

Ian, Mr. Love Pants - Thanks for everything! We will all miss you...
Doug M.
San Fran Bay area, USA -

What a mustard bloke! What an entertainer! But Ian...."Not" A Waste ! You'll be so sadly missed ! Good luck on your journey old mate !
Nick Clark <nigelcc@emirates.net.ae>
Southend on Sea, Essex - UK -

A sad, sad day indeed. Ian, my friend, you DID give us all reasons to be cheerful... may God rest your soul in peace
Paul Muscat <Paul_Muscat@excite.com>
Maryville, TN, USA -

A sad loss, who will indeed be sorely missed.

Condolences to Ian's family and loved ones.

May he Rest In Peace.

Respectfully

Lee (Mad C.)
Lee <cantona@terrigal.net.au>
Australia -

Partial to your abracadabra. Thank you Ian. Your music makes me happy just thinking about it. God Bless You.

Kevin Winnett
Kevin Winnett
Baton Rouge Louisiana/San Francisco,, USA -

Ian Dury Iam so sad you are not with us any more I saw you iwhen I was living in London (Hammersmith Odeon) end of 70�s and also in west-Berlin, I know you whent to a bettr place and God want to have you clouser. God bless you! and well come home .My condolence to your wife and children and olso to your ex-wife Franccesca that I met her in London and sow her in her last painting Exposition just before you two got marriadge.I send you all my love where ever you are, I think you are resting in peace becouse you are back home were we all below. No more pain.Hasta la vista! Covadonga
Covadonga <covadong@wanadoo.es>
Madrid, Spain -

Ian, you are going to be missed loads. Not just myself and my family, but from everyone around the world. Rhythm Stick was one of the first songs I remember as a child, mum used to play it whilst I was learning to speak. Used to sing it all the time. Gonna miss you big guy!!!!
Adrian Russo <adrian@geezer.co.uk>
Sydney, Australia - Ex UK -

let's hope that's there's lots more to come. not likely, not like i.d.. but let's hope all the same.
matthew zagar <mzagar@home.com>
lyndhurst, NJ, usa -

you wer'nt half a clever bleeder. thanks for every little thought you poped into my head. sad, missed, reveared.
Mcquhae
Michael McQuhae <michaelmcquhae@theend.com>
Los Angeles, USA -

good on ya mate, travel well.
Og
Sydney, Australia -

Ian Dury one word to describe him would be "Icon"
he'll be sadly missed
Pete Woodcock <pete.woodcock@ic24.net>
UK -

It's sad to hear you left us , still, you've got the Razzle in your pocket as second prize!.

Phil Thompson <janethomas21@earthlink.net>
Montreal, Canada -

I just want to say Iam very sorry about you left us but I know you are back home, you make people remenber very good times with your songs and give us lots of love . My condolence to your wife children and friends, and also to your first wifw Franccesca, I new her when I was living in London and last time I sow her was a few days before you two got married, I write another message before but it got lost , is not much to say I give you my love, and have a good tryp on your way back home,you will always stay in our heards.Covadonga. Spain
Covadonga. Madrid <Covadong@wanadoo.es>
-

I never saw him live and I was too young to appreciate his music during his heyday,
but there was never a more perfect poet of contemporary life than the "Billericay Dickie".
To display and listen to that eccentric charm thru his albums, it was very refreshingly
different from the everyday manufactured world of pop and rock. In the final few years it
was so pleasing that his humour and dignity remained as one. Indeed the world will be
a poorer place without him!

Cheerio Ian and RIP!

Deano <dianno@nsw.bigpond.net.au>
Sydney, Australia -

The music world will miss Ian. Rest in peace and thank you for the music.
Karl <karl.hadman@manchesterstorm.com>
Isle of Man -

Ian Dury - a real person. Thanks
PRB <kil.cast@btinternet.com>
UK -

"... Everybody will be happy, learning things"

I learnt lots from Ian...
thanks.
Graham Willcox <pcpres@hotmail.com>
Adelaide, Australia -

So sorry to hear about Ian Dury. I'll Never forget first hearing New Boots and Panties in the late 70's. All the great music and funny lines, then discovering that gem "My Old Man". For me, there really hasn't been anyone who could write better lyrics. The nice thing is, he knew how good he was.
Greg Windwick
Victoria B.C., Canada -

Thanks Ian. I will miss you. Good-bye.

Manabu Udagawa <udagawa@tt.rim.or.jp>
Tokyo, Japan -

Reasons to be cheerful? We all got to share Ian's music and life.
David
Adelaide, Australia -

** My heart has joined the thousand for my friend stopped running today **
Miss you already Geezer
** for Iver and Iver - Crouch End **

spider <spidergt@globetrotter.net>
verdun, quebec, ex UK -

I'll miss you, saw you on my first gig at the Glasgow Apollo
on the Do It Yourself tour, I was only 13, a night of pure magic, with many to follow. You won't be forgotten, as if you'd let us.
"....and that's not all I want to say"
Condolences
to family
Allistair Leckie
Al Leckie <al@megasys.freeserve.co.uk>
Paisley, UK -

This site is incredible, it grows by the minute, a fitting tribute to a great man.

Many people have commented on how Ian overcame both poio and cancer in the name of entertainment. Lets not forget the years of mental anguish that the man also overcame.

The only word that I can think of that rhymes with depression is hessian. I think that Ian could have successfully used that rhyme by using it to sew up a great big sack of joy and emptying it out all over his loving public. You had a strange way with words old mate and that's probably why your words hold so many different meanings for so many different people. You were the voice of diversity and loved by so many for many different reasons.

"youv'e done all you can with the day" Digger, I hope your milky way takes the form of warm, smokey pub.
Scott Watkins-Sully <wtelly@ar.com.au>
Sydney, Australia -

You were a fun guy, I always got a big kick out of your work.
You were really brave. Rest in peace, be free now.
Marcy T
USA -

Broke the mould Ian. Thanks.
Adam
Perth Via Melbourne, Australia -

Proud of you geez
steve <bellyache@primus.com.au>
once of Essex, Australia -

Now for my half a pound of uncut pork.

Ian,

Somehow it felt alright to be a confused, testosterone-overloaded teenager without an effing clue, so long as the Blockheads were providing the soundtrack. Ian, thanks for igniting my world with a sense of play and wit. I grew up in a strict environment in a leafy green suburb but your music brought me into the world of black and orange cars, funky music, bad haircuts, bodgie characters shaping up tricky in the back streets of London, kippers on the grill, disastrous sexual encounters and generally breaking a few rules - even if it was all in my head. Your music made me feel good about being me. Will never forget the Blockheads concert at Festival Hall, Melbourne in 1981. You smashed a bottle over your head, Davy Payne played two saxes at once, Charley Charles threw one of his drumsticks into our group in the front row, and you sang "We'll Meet Again" for the final part of the encore.All this while a mate of mine was making a bootleg tape of your show (hope you don't mind, he went on to be a rhythm guitarist for one of Australia's leading bands.) After the show, we got to meet you and all the boys, and for us, it was like the Second Coming.Sadly, we never will get the chance to meet again, but your music lives. I'll be playing a certain lullaby to my little baby tonight, and I'll smile, thinking of you and Charley rocking on with the chosen ones in 'eaven.Another thing, in a world full of wanker musicians and immitators, the Blockheads sound was (and is) pure original wit and spunk.An outfit of crack muzos, fronted by a lyrical genius.

Mourning your decline, but never forgetting the good times
greg kerr
Melbourne, Australia -

Pure Brilliance... :'-(
Dave Pearson <jj15081@hotmail.com>
Barnsley, UK -

i saw him at the cambridge corn exchange on his last tour-a very powerful performance .His song spasticus autisticus although banned by the beeb in the International Year of the Disabled in 1981 was a welcome tonic in the nerdish hype which was engendered in those days- a two fingers to institutional charity/paternalism and a positive message about common cause not good cause
john hannington <johncuillinred@beeb.net>
stevenage, UK -

It is a rare man who can deal with adversity the way Ian did, use and develop their intelligence in so many different ways and make fantastic music with a sense of humour but Ian did all of this and more. To your family, Ian, condolences and to all of us who loved what you did, let's hope it stays alive. In which case....
Pat Burke <patb@ihug.com.au>
Melbourne, Australia -

In a beautiful irony the song Sweet Gene Vincent suddenly sounds like Gene singing about Ian.
El Buccanero
London, UK -

All stand and raise your champagne glass to a man who made
our lives richer. God bless Ian Dury.
Stephie <figfarm@tiki.net>
Maui, USA -

Thanks Ian.
John <osquidbeak@cs.com>
London, UK -

Ian,

Somehow it felt alright to be a confused, testosterone-overloaded teenager without an effing clue, so long as the Blockheads were providing the soundtrack. Ian, thanks for igniting my world with a sense of play and wit. I grew up in a strict environment in a leafy green suburb but your music brought me into the world of black and orange cars, funky music, bad haircuts, bodgie characters shaping up tricky in the back streets of London, kippers on the grill, disastrous sexual encounters and generally breaking a few rules - even if it was all in my head. Your music made me feel good about being me. Will never forget the Blockheads concert at Festival Hall, Melbourne in 1981. You smashed a bottle over your head, Davy Payne played two saxes at once, Charley Charles threw one of his drumsticks into our group in the front row, and you sang "We'll Meet Again" for the final part of the encore. After the show, we got to meet you and all the boys, and for us, it was like the Second Coming.Sadly, we never will get the chance to meet again, but your music lives. I'll be playing Lullaby for Francis to my little baby tonight, and I'll smile, thinking of you and Charley rocking on with the chosen ones in 'eaven.Another thing, in a world full of wanker musicians and immitators, the Blockheads sound was (and is) pure original wit and spunk.An outfit of crack muzos, fronted by a lyrical genius.

Mourning your decline, but never forgetting the good times
greg kerr
Melbourne, Australia -

Ian,

Somehow it felt alright to be a confused, testosterone-overloaded teenager without an effing clue, so long as the Blockheads were providing the soundtrack. Ian, thanks for igniting my world with a sense of play and wit. I grew up in a strict environment in a leafy green suburb but your music brought me into the world of black and orange cars, funky music, bad haircuts, bodgie characters from the back streets of the London burbs, kippers on the grill and breaking a few rules - even if it was all in my head. Your music made me feel good about being me. Will never forget the Blockheads concert at Festival Hall, Melbourne in 1981. You smashed a bottle over your head, Davy Payne played two saxes at once, Charley Charles threw one of his drumsticks into our group in the front row, and you sang "We'll Meet Again" for the final part of the encore. After the show, we got to meet you and all the boys, and for us, it was like the Second Coming.Sadly, we never will get the chance to meet again, but your music lives. I'll be playing Lullaby for Francis to my little baby tonight, and I'll smile, thinking of you and Charley rocking on with the chosen ones in 'eaven.Another thing, in a world full of wanker musicians and immitators, the Blockheads sound was (and is) pure original wit and spunk.An outfit of crack muzos, fronted by a lyrical genius.

Mourning your decline, but never forgetting the good times
greg kerr
Melbourne, Australia -

Never was a great music fan but you were a giant in both music and in your attitude to life. Listening to you on 5-live was a powerful experience
Brian <2Bs@lineone.net>
BRADFORD, UK -

Diamond Geezzeeer!! Spasticus Autisticus !! In your own words 'stick it where it f***ing well hurts'. On behalf of the The Metropolitan Police rest in peace.
Tim Smith <TimboSmiff@aol.com>
London, UK -

Ian,

Somehow it felt alright to be a confused, testosterone-overloaded teenager without an effing clue, so long as the Blockheads were providing the soundtrack. Ian, thanks for igniting my world with a sense of play and wit. I grew up in a strict environment in a leafy green suburb but your music brought me into the world of black and orange cars, funky music, bad haircuts, bodgie characters from the back streets of the London burbs, kippers on the grill and breaking a few rules - even if it was all in my head. Your music made me feel good about being me. Will never forget the Blockheads concert at Festival Hall, Melbourne in 1981. You smashed a bottle over your head, Davy Payne played two saxes at once, Charley Charles threw one of his drumsticks into our group in the front row, and you sang "We'll Meet Again" for the final part of the encore. After the show, we got to meet you and all the boys, and for us, it was like the Second Coming.Sadly, we never will get the chance to meet again, but your music lives. I'll be playing Lullaby for Francis to my little baby tonight, and I'll smile, thinking of you and Charley rocking on with the chosen ones in 'eaven.Another thing, in a world full of wanker musicians and immitators, the Blockheads sound was (and is) pure original wit and spunk.An outfit of crack muzos, fronted by a lyrical genius.

Mourning your decline, but never forgetting the good times

Greg Kerr, Melbourne, Australia
greg kerr
Melbourne, Australia -

Gracias por todo Ian. Todos los incondicionales del PUB ROCK del mundo te debemos algo. Larga vida al rock and roll y a Kilburn and the High Roads.
Javier Abad <vxjaabme@vallduixo.infoville.net>
La vall d'Uix�, Spain -

Ian Dury's passing is a great loss to the world. An inspired lyricist "Einstein can't be classed as witless, 'e claimed atoms were the littlest..." and someone who faced his illness with a great inner srength. Polio, cancer - even the very thought of ONE of those terrible afflictions would crush most of us, but he just shrugged it off and got on with his life. Looking at the main website I saw all the gigs he had already lined up for the summer. Sadly it wasn't to be.

He always found reasons to be cheerful, and through his music will continue to provide a wry smile to others for many years to come.

As Ian joins former Blockheads drummer Charley Charles for one last great gig in the sky, I'm sure they're "doing very well".
Rock Hammer <news@RockNetwork.com>
LONDON, UK -

Ian,

Somehow it felt alright to be a confused, testosterone-overloaded teenager without an effing clue, so long as the Blockheads were providing the soundtrack. Ian, thanks for igniting my world with a sense of play and wit. I grew up in a strict environment in a leafy green suburb but your music brought me into the world of black and orange cars, funky music, bad haircuts, bodgie characters from the back streets of the London burbs, kippers on the grill and breaking a few rules - even if it was all in my head. Your music made me feel good about being me. Will never forget the Blockheads concert at Festival Hall, Melbourne in 1981. You smashed a bottle over your head, Davy Payne played two saxes at once, Charley Charles threw one of his drumsticks into our group in the front row, and you sang "We'll Meet Again" for the final part of the encore. After the show, we got to meet you and all the boys, and for us, it was like the Second Coming.Sadly, we never will get the chance to meet again, but your music lives. I'll be playing Lullaby for Francis to my little baby tonight, and I'll smile, thinking of you and Charley rocking on with the chosen ones in 'eaven.Another thing, in a world full of wanker musicians and immitators, the Blockheads sound was (and is) pure original wit and spunk.An outfit of crack musos, my mord.

Mourning your decline,

Greg Kerr, Melbourne, Australia
greg kerr
Melbourne, Australia -

Ian,

Somehow it felt alright to be a confused, testosterone-overloaded teenager without an effing clue so long as the Blockheads were providing the soundtrack. Ian, thanks for igniting my world with a sense of play and wit. I grew up in a strict environment in a leafy green suburb but your music brought me into the world of black and orange cars, funky music, bad haircuts, bodgie characters from the back streets of the London burbs, kippers on the grill and breaking a few rules - even if it was all in my head. Your music made me feel good about being me. Will never forget the Blockheads concert at Festival Hall, Melbourne in 1981. You smashed a bottle over your head, Davy Payne played two saxes at once, Charley Charles threw one of his drumsticks into our group in the front row, and you sang "We'll Meet Again" for the final part of the encore. After the show, we got to meet you and all the boys, and for us, it was like the Second Coming.Sadly, we never will get the chance to meet again, but your music lives. I'll be playing Lullaby for Francis to my little baby tonight, and I'll smile, thinking of you and Charley rocking on with the chosen ones in 'eaven.

Mourning your decline,

Greg Kerr, Melbourne, Australia
greg kerr
Melbourne, Australia -

I bought 'What A Waste" as a teenager- my dad heard it & stopped my pocket money. I found him playing it the next day!
God Bless you Ian- your joy will be missed.
Tania WIllis <twillis@hkstar.com>
Hong Kong -

Ian,

Somehow it felt alright to be a confused, testosterone-overloaded teenager without an effing clue so long as the Blockheads were providing the soundtrack. Ian, thanks for igniting my world with a sense of play and wit. I grew up in a strict environment in a leafy green suburb but your music brought me into the world of black and orange cars, funky music, bad haircuts, bodgie characters from the back streets of the London burbs, kippers on the grill and breaking a few rules - even if it was all in my head. Your music made me feel good about being me. Will never forget the Blockheads concert at Festival Hall, Melbourne in 1981. You smashed a bottle over your head, Davy Payne played two saxes at once, Charley Charles threw one of his drumstick into our group in the front row, and you sang "We'll Meet Again" for the final part of the encore. After the show, we got to meet you and all the boys, and for us, it was like the Second Coming.Sadly, we never will get the chance to meet again, but your musict to meet you and all the boys, and for us, it was like the Second Coming.Sadly, we never will get the chance to meet again, but your music lives. I'll be playing Lullaby for Francis to my little baby tonight, and you and Charley rocking on, smoking weed of wisdom with the chosen ones in 'eaven.

Mourning your decline,

Greg Kerr, Melbourne, Australia
greg kerr
Melbourne, Australia -

To paraphrase the good Dr Lecter, the world will be a less interesting place without you in it.
hank young <ycbhat@aol.com>
UK -

The world's a poorer place without you. I'm glad I got the chance to buy you a G&T.
sheona7
UK -

Ar*eh*les, B*st*rds, F*ckin C*nts & Pr*cks... they continue to live, whilst the big and great men pass away.
Ian, you were an inspiration in my youth, an inspiration in my middle-age, and you'll continue to be an inspiration in my older years.
All the eulogising in the world isn't going to bring you back, so rest in peace and teach those other whippersnapper songwriters & musicians a lesson or two mate!
Steve Gibbs <esgee@esgee.com>
(an ex-pat from Southampton, now in) Franklin, OH, USA -

Ian has gone to a better place than this, but his music will live on in the hearts of us all. Rest in peace from The Skels.
Chris <skel@ix.netcom.com>
Paterson, NJ, USA -

Ian's work brought so much joy into so many lives. He was certainly one of a kind and we're all the richer for what he's done.
Thanks so much, Ian- cheers, mate!
Jason Gross <perfect-sound@furious.com>
New York, USA -

Back in 75 when we were neighbours and friends living in The Oval, and things were not looking so good, you tried to get a christmas job as a lift operaror in Harrods. You were turned down. Thank you harrods.And thank you Ian Ill rebember those days and nights forever. All the best JC
John Carroll <jcarpub@aol.com>
London, UK -

Saw the man in Detroit in 1978 opening for Lou Reed. Didn't know who he was...it was a great performance. Thanks for the music, Mr.D.
Tom Thornton <tjtjlb@home.com>
Battle Creek, MI, USA -

For many years, I wasn't a massive fan of Ian's - I just liked listening to his songs on the radio and occasionally playing them myself at the local hospital radio. Then a year or so back I was gobsmacked when I saw him on "Later..." and went out and bought Mr Lovepants straight away. I got into his music big time and was lucky enough to see him live on a couple of occasions. I will always treasure these moments. There are certain gigs that stay with you forever and these are two of them. My own mother died last June from liver cancer and somewhere at the back of my mind Ian was keeping up the fight that she had lost. His passing has hit me harder than I care to admit as a result. I never met Ian, but from what I've seen that's my loss. I hope he's up there now playing a duet with Gene Vincent and backed by the choir eternal.

Giles Kendrick <kendrickgr@technosys.co.uk>
Coventry, UK -

Saw the man in Detroit in 1978 opening for Lou Reed. Didn't know who he was...it was a great performance. Thanks for the music, Mr.D.
Tom Thornton <tjtjlb@home.com>
Battle Creek, MI, USA -

Sex and drugs and rock and roll;The war cry of a generation.IAN DURY;a gentleman and a scholar and a fighter to the end. It isn't much fun when the business gets done, but it's ever so nice when it stops.
Steve and Bubbles
Stevenage, UK -

You don't know what you've had until it's gone....great memories....these will last as long as I have the strength to remember!
You have given more than you knew ( and that was a lot) to so many people who you never had the chance to swear at. Sorry for being so sentimental!

Goodnight and god bless!
Light's out!!

Warren Davies <wdaultra@aol.com>
liverpool, UK -

Today it is hard to find "Reasons To Be Cheerful" as our favorite BLOCKHEAD is layed to rest. "What A Waste"! Here's to one last need for "New Boots And Panties"! The days of funtime "Sex & Drugs & Rock & Roll" may have come to an end, but any excuse is still a good excuse to "Hit Me With Your Rhythm Stick"! Ian can take the slogans "Be Stiff" and "If It Ain't Stiff, It Ain't Worth A Fuck" to new ironic heights!

Rest In Peace you geezer.

pres
usa -

To the family, our god will care for you at this sad time, and Ian will be "safe " back in august last year I went to the ross festival and Ian was too ill to play and steve harley stood in for Him, he did Hit Me with your rhythm stick, wicked tune love it,at this time my own mother was ill in hospital with the same dreaded illness ,but I left her bedside to go to the concert, it was a good night we all wished him well, sadley my dear old mum never made it,last night was at the brook in southampton,when i heard the sad news ,the artist who was playing this night was steve harley and he reduced me to tears with his tribute to the man,could help but shed a tear for life passed away, this man has left this life but he will always be near to loved ones like he never left,Love will save the day , I feel surrounded, by my mothers love,you also will be surrounded by ians , he's not far, keep the faith and you will be together again, sure all who loved him will be comforted. He is a great guy still, not was. play his music be happy for joy he's given remember what he gave.no one can take that away ever,not even god as some one posted on here i read " Reasons to be cheerfull " He was loved by all. god bless you all .
Deborah <chilternvaleting@rollingsnetlineuk.net>
UK -

As an English woman living abroad, no music brings back the feeling of home better. You remain an inspiration and a shining example of the best of British talent. Sorely missed but never forgotten.

With Love
S.
x
Sophie <sophiep@nwaids.org>
Seattle, USA -

I have never been so upset about the death of someone I never met.

Ian Dury & the Blockheads were the first (& best) band I ever saw.

I even managed to convert my 82 year old gran into a fan following his appearance on "Rock Go's to College" (Although I think she may have enjoyed "Plaistow Patricia" a little less than I did).

My condolences to Ian's family & friends, but just remember you KNEW an absolutely Diamond Geezer who inspired many.

Andy Hellis <blockhead@supanet.com>
Harrogate, UK -

RIP Ian

You deserve it.
Rob Kerr
Brisbane, Australia -

Thanks Ian. Deepest sympathy to his family
Terry Barns <terry.barns@talk21.com>
Woodford Green, UK -

An amazing person and musician. Ian sat at the top of the list for me and he will always be there. Ian had the words, I don't at this moment. Bye, mate.
Graeme <theboss@start.com.au>
Sydney, Australia -

There ain't half been some clever bastards. But the cleverest and greatest of them all was you. You brought so many smiles into my life, I will never forget you. Hope you are ok down there in boneyard, sleep peacefully my friend.
Stevie Mac and Jamesie (5) and Francesca (18 months)
Steve McCrady <steven@mccrady.fsnet.co.uk>
North Shields, UK -

The British music industry was all the richer for Ian Dury. A talented and seemingly unassuming man, his death is a great loss to Britain but his life was and will be a great inspiration to aspiring artists.
salar farzad
los angeles, USA -

There was only one thing better than listening to Ians music and that was listening to the man talk, more common sense than any man has a right to and in a voice that was just like listening to "My Old Man".
He's not gone, He's sitting on a cloud laughing his Almonds off.
See ya later mate.
Brian Toller <Brian@t-toller.freeserve.co.uk>
Liverpool, UK -

whip me with your rythem stick! whip me!!
r.kaye <icklloyd@aol.com>
lake milton, usa -

Rage on, Ian, where ever you may be - Thanks for the music, and for your individuality! We'll miss your face........
Ozegirl
UK -

I saw Ian dury's gig @ the Cliffs Pavillion in Southend. It was one of the best gigs I have ever seen and probably ever will.
He was, and will forever be a great man.
O.Stacey
Essex, UK -

I can't say anything funny, or witty, or clever, or rude, unlike you Ian...thanks for making music all of these things, and for your courage and humour throughout. Why do the good ones always go too soon? Miss you.
Carol Gibson <carol@softwaredesigners.freeserve.co.uk>
London, UK -

The original punk movement was a chaos of wonder; with a come as you are aesthetic fusing reggae & metal; danceband & rock; technical virtuosity & complete incompetence to create a fury of interesting sounds. It was also one of those rare times when the cream really could rise to the top... if only because the surrounding turbulence of musical expression was so extreme that the scum couldn't get there first....

The songs of Ian Dury & the Blockheads added classical dance rhythms & authentic wit to the punk musical mix; & helped England's renegade dreaming to laugh at it itself. Perhaps they helped light a beacon for the so-called white ska bands like Madness which followed - i'll leave that to true rock historians - but the true legacy are the songs themselves: the mournful Reasons to be Cheerful, the self parodic Sex & Drugs & Rock & Roll, the gently furious Spasticus, Autisticus & the just plain cheerful Hit Me With Your Rhythm Stick... just typing the titles floods the memory with the bouncing aphoristisms which litter the lyrics; & the bright tuneful scores which underpin. It was intelligent, entertaining popular art... & intelligent, entertaining popular art is by far the most difficult art form to master

ID's life drifted from issue to issue, post-punk. He was obviously best known in the UK - apart from the occasional film cameo we saw little of him here in Australia - but seems to have found fair slabs of the joy he gave many members of his audience. Those who knew ID are no doubt missing the man already... @ least we can still celebrate the music he created....

All the best.
Robert Clements <Robert.Clements@dva.gov.au>
Sydney, Australia -

Capitol Theatre, Sydney, 1981.

Brill!

Up there in the top 3 concerts I've ever been to.

Tight. Funny. All one could ask for.

We'll all miss ya, Ian. The humour. The gorgeous irony.

Most of all the humanity.

Thanks.
Richard <davigdor@hotmail.com>
Sydney, Australia -

New B&P was bought for me at a young age and was probably the first 'proper' record I owned, I think its influence has stayed with me ever since. Thanks for sharing with us.
Dave C
UK -

We are saddened to hear about the loss of Ian Dury. We were privileged to see him perform years ago in Toronto. We can not remember when, too much SEX and DRUGS and ROCK & ROLL since then.
Harvey & Julia Middleton <jmiddleton@golden.net>
Ingersoll, Ontario, Canada -

Go to sleep now, you've done all you can with the day.
Thanks for over 20 years of musical excitement and enjoyment.
Erik <rndrs@xs4all.nl>
Amsterdam, -

he Ian, reincarnation does exsist you know!
harry <sahara@home.nl>
netherlands -

Oh man, oh there you go.
daveypotts <sylvana@dircon.co.uk>
Manchester, UK -

'EE wasn't 'arf a clever barstid....I can't believe it, Ian was what got me through the seventies. I still have his music..cheers mate!!
Richard Risby <risby@zoomnet.net>
Portsmouth, USA -

Only a week ago, our radio station WMSE was celebrating 19 years on the air. The other DJ's and myself were pulling all the records out, spinning all kinds of music from years gone by, including Ian Dury. It saddens me to think a man that had a key role in our history is now gone. His songs should be required listening worldwide.
Buzz
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA -

I think like a lot of thirty somethings, Ian Dury really defined my childhood in the 70's. I feel like I've lost a piece of that now he has gone. When Cliff Richard did that awful Millennium Prayer, I couldn't help but say the words of the Bus Driver's Prayer to it! We've got a gig this Sunday and we're going to a Blockheads song in his honour. Cheers Ian - you were always there for me mate. Good to see so many messages from younger people and guys from abroad.
Condolences to all your friends and family.

Are father, who art in Hendon.
Harrow Road be thy name.
Thy Kingston come, thy Wimbledon in Erith as it is in Hendon
Give us this day our Berkhamsted and forgive us our
Westminsters as we forgive those who Westminster against us.
For thine is the Kingston, the Purley and the Crawley
for Iver and Iver, Crouch End.
Nobby <rgrimmer@lineone.net>
Leighton Buzzard, UK -

Ian... a great talent who did good for many, many people. God has called you home. Rest in joy!
Willie Wood <woodwillie>
Carmel, USA -

God bless you Ian. Sleep well
paul rooney <crooney@talk21.com>
london, UK -

You will be dearly missed, but never forgotten.I will never forget the best gig ever in Cambridge last December.Deepest sympathy to all his friends & family he's left behind.
Esther Hatch <hatch@hatchg.fsnet.co.uk>
Barnstaple, UK -

You bring back wonderful memories of some wonderful times. You will always live on.

Amanda Downunder!
Amanda Stevens <amandas@oldfields.com.au>
Sydney, Australia -

Thanks
David Roberts <davidr07@hotmail.com>
Helsinki, Finland -

A truly unique talent, Ian will be sorely missed.
Steve (also on behalf of The R & B Circle)
Steve Melton <Steme191@aol.com>
Grimsby, UK -

Rest in Peace Ian - you were not dealt a good hand in life, but boy did you play it well................
Vivienne St Clair <vivc@eircom.net>
Tralee, Ireland -

In this little corner of the planet,Ian's humor & wit was not ever not appreciated. Your my baby.
Thomas Zagar <znewglassman@aol.com>
Detroit, MI, USA -

His music brings back some of the happiest memories of my life.

Rest in rock 'n' roll.

Windy
Somerset, UK -

I remember the first time I saw Kilburn and the High Roads
on a poster in Euston Underground.
I remember Ian, the Blockheads and friends at
the Hammersmith Odeon.
I can remember driving round Essex with
Boots and Panties at full blast.
I can hear his voice and see him now.
A gent and a scholar, who never gave up.

Rest in peace mate.

Peter Humphreys <phumphreys@ireland.com>
Dublin, IRL -

Sadly missed, but because of his music, still reasons to be chearful.
From an Ex-Essex boy.
Danny <xbrit@hotmail.com>
Calgary, Canada -

IAN DURY..WE SALUTE YOU...a true english gentleman with the englishness that Billy Bragg recently spoke about..a great writer..raise a glass to Ian...I'll always miss you
Steve <johnquays@bigpond.com>
australia -

Ian, your music and attitude have been an inspiration and pulled me out of my whingier moments. God bless you.

Rob
Rob Friday <rob_friday@hotmail.com>
Birmingham, UK -

Ian Dury's music was part of the soundtrack of my early 20's. I cannot think of the man and his music without smiling. Unquestionably, his music enriched my life. I salute him.
Jake Maruby <maruby@cloud9.net>
New York, US -

"what a waste". God bless you Ian.You've been my inspiration
since a school friend brought your "New Boots and Panties"
into our sixth form in the late seventies and woke us all up with "Plaistow Patricia".That first taste to an alternative and humurous look on life has made me a better person.There are so many "reseans to be cheerful" ,THANKS IAN. Now rest in peace. X
Robert. Cross <robertcross@libero.it>
Parma, ITALY -

We are extremely sad that Ian has died - condolences to his family and friends.

Greyhound, Fulham Palace Road, 1973.
Kilburn and the High Roads. We first saw you there and met each other. Twenty seven years later, we are still together & still really enjoy your music. Thank you. Gill and Eric Barrs.
Eric and Gill Barrs <cornus@cornuswwweb.co.uk>
Godalming, UK -

There's no more sex,drugs and Rock&Roll,
There's no more fighting, only peace,
But there's still your music that hits me...
Gerard M�lis <Cage68@wxs.nl>
Utrecht, Holland -

the world won't be the same without you.your music was unique.rest in peace
Anthony <plantsat23@hotmail.com>
UK -

Very sorry to hear the sad news about the fantastic Ian Dury. Best wishes to all of his family. I have a personal tribute page to Ian Dury on my web site.
David Golden
Brighton, UK -

war einer von der guten alten sorte
godbye sdr
Markus <organ123@aol.de>
saarbr�cken, germany -

It's strange that someone you've never met feels like an old friend.
Sleep well Lord Upminster.
David
David Longbotom <david@longbottom.karoo.co.uk>
Hull, UK -

Hey Now!

�We�re gathered here this evening��..� ,
Uncle Ian had passed away into �that goodnight�. I know when people die; we love them, yet with Ian for us all here there is something a bit more close. Yes we had him on DFF, but anyone who loves Madness loves Ian. They compliment one another.

I fist remember hearing Dury as a kid, so young that I once got a clip around the ear off my dad for shout �Spasticus Autisicus�, I hadn�t a clue what I was saying, but obviously something clicked when I first heard the sounds of the blockheads. That was the thing about Ian�s music, it was always dead catchy, yet his words probably spoke volumes more. How many times have you pinches some of his phrases when talking to others and took credit for being witty? I know I have, yet in as much as me gaining from his words, I too said these things out of respect to his words. Always bloody catchy, wish I was able to come out with words like that.

Ian more than anything showed courage, the bulldog was always the underdog. An affliction of polio as a kid, would have written off many, yet Ian overcame it. An affliction of Cancer would have written off many, yet Ian overcame it. Yes HE OVERCAME it. Although tonight he joins the �clever bastards� in the sky, he can look down at us with a smile on his face. He turned something so negative into something so positive. How many of us and how many in the media really knew about Cancer before? He brought such an �unfashionable� disease (if there is such a thing) to the public domain and got people interested. How many other pop stars can you remember on Newsnight genuinely campaigning about something?

From humble Irish beginnings in Donegal, Dury soon became Lord Upminster from his days at Art College. He became a close friend with Peter Blake, he was the guy responsible for thee most famous album cover of all time: Sgt. Pepper�s Lonely Hearts Club Band. A keen eye for the canvass then saw Dury turn his thoughts into words. Soon enough this oddest bunch of unlikely lads were doing the rounds in London. �The Kilburns�(my way of pronouncing the band) packed many a pub with the cockney rebel on the lead. From this group Ian met with Chaz Jankel, soon to become the musician to his words. That mix gave us Ian Dury and the Blockheads.

Who ever saw a guy with a walking stick, a weird looking sax player and the late great Charley Charles in a band. Again their disfunctionalty reflected their music. Yet behind the witty cockney rhymes was simply a master at work. Dury became an unlikely star at 35 when his debut album "New Boots and Panties" propelled him and The Blockheads to critical acclaim and a year-long stay in the British charts. His wry Cockney wit and wink of the eye came through loud and clear in songs like "Clever Trevor" and "Sex and Drugs and Rock and Roll", his lampoon of the music industry.

Songs like these would inspire many, Madness perhaps most. If you ever want to hear the roots of Madness, Dury simply is it and in Suggs� words, �the binding factor� between the group in the early years. It was so fitting to bring him onboard for Drip Fed Fred and now the song will forever take on a new and long-lasting significance. Its great to see his work appreciated by the band as seen with the inner sleeve dedication, forever there to remind us of the wizardry: �The band would like to dedicate this album to Ian Dury for his inspiration and happiness he has brought us.�

I never met Ian Dury. Wish I had. I was though fortunate to be present at he first two Madstocks. He was the guy who rescued the Madstock when others (not so clever bastards) decided to be off and played on to fill the gap before Madness hit the stage. I�ll never forget how good the crowd reacted to him on stage. Even Johnny Rotten popped on stage for his performance. This was repeated in 1994 when the Blockheads once again filled the Finsbury air with �Sex and drugs and rock and roll� and �rhythm sticks�. Dury, you were the man. I suppose I can thank Madness as much for giving me Ian, as much as Ian for giving us Madness. I will forever hold those two august evenings in my heart, and Ian Dury will be one of the clear memories of those great moments.

I only hope that I will be remembered for a fraction of things Ian did. Hopefully people will remember me for the odd witty crack (unlike Ian for many). I hope too that if I am ever in the face of adversity, that I too can rise above it and make something positive. At the risk of sounding corny, he truly IS an inspiration to all and forever will be.

I won�t pray for him tonight, cause I know he is up there at peace and mincing his words with the clever ones like Coward and Co. I bet he�s loving it. I will though think of his family, all still young. He said in a recent documentary that he didn�t fear death but he worried about his young children.

So that�s it, Ian is dead, long live Ian. We shouldn�t be negative about this; yes it�s very sad, yet think about it on the grand scheme of things. A back-catalogue of great songs, the �people�s poet� and his words, a very British sense of humour but most of all: REASONS TO BE CHEERFUL!

�All stand and raise a champagne glass!�

All the best
Vince!

Vince Foley <vjfmadness@yahoo.com>
Cork, Ireland -

This was very eerie. On Sunday evening, I incidentally saw Ian performing a blinding live performance of Sex'n'Drugs'n'Rock'n'Roll on UK Play's Sounds of the Seventies. An old "Whistle Test" recording. It inspired me immediately to dig out the forever classic "New Boots and Panties" album which was a great way to finish my weekend.

I was then totally staggered to hear this news a matter of hours later.

Ian Dury was one of my teenage idols, you're didn't count if you didn't go around singing the opening gambit to Plaistow Patricia to your mates or could sing What A Waste, Wake Up and Make Love To Me and the rest of them. And for me, singing, word for word, Billericay Dickie which remains one of my party pieces.

I first saw him perform live three times at the height of his fame and they were all fantastic, memorable nights. The Blockheads were a great group but it was Ian's presence, charisma and of course, his words that made it special.

I was looking forward to him playing at a Summer Festival last year in Swansea but he had to cancel due to his illness.

You just had to admire the man, his ability to get where he did despite his disabilities through polio and all he achieved.

Some fabulous songs and brilliant cheeky, identifiable poetry and lyrics to go with them.

Thanks for the music and the memories Ian. They'll live with me forever.

Nigel Haris <BigelBlues@aol.com>
Cardiff, Wales, UK -

Read the news in the paper on the train to London this morning - can't remember feeling so sad about someone I never met. A consummate performer, lyricist, poet, humourist and humanist. Just listened to Warts 'n' Audience very LOUD!! It helped a lot!
Sympathy to your family. Goodnight Ian.
Richard.
Rich Cundill <cundills@reckitt.karoo.co.uk>
Hull, UK -

A true maverick who will be sorely missed - a ray of sunshine has gone out. Rest in peace.
Kevin <kptanswell@x-stream.co.uk>
Cheltenham, UK -

I can't think what else to say except that I shall miss you very much and always remember the great gigs I saw. With deepest sympathy to your wife and children.
Rachel Auger <Rachel@sauger.freeserve.co.uk>
UK -

Only saw him once, two years ago at the Roskilde Festival (dk). He was brilliant. Funny and warm. His earlier songs are part of my youth. Keep'em smiling up there Ian !
frank <frankantwerp@hotmail.com>
antwerp, belgium -

Love and regards to Ian`s family, and best wishes to Ian`s "other" family,
"The Blockheads"....................
"I miss the voice , that called my heart"

From Lou, Ana and Oscar O`kill
Lou O`kill <l.okill@cwcom.net>
I`m from Essex, in case you couldn`t tell......, UK -

Top Geezer.
See you later mate.
Love to the family.
Paul <sioux@nash19.freeserve.co.uk>
Shepperton, UK -

One memory , of many, abides. London Capital radio late 70's. Ian giving a girl with polio a favorite walking stick on a telephone phone in. One hell of a man and maker of music.
The world is a poorer place without him.

Paul <Shanklinv>
Norwich, UK -

Our Ian who art in Hendon.
Deepest Sympathy to you and your loved ones left behind.
David Killington <david.killington@talk21.com>
London, UK -

The man that overcame his illness, overcame his disabilites, and ignored them like they were nothing. He's gone, but not forgotten. I suggest we all should make donations to CancerBacup, after all flowers may be pretty, but they soon dry and die.

Mr Lovepants - You Geezer!
Wozza <david.wassell@btinternet.com>
Shropshire, UK -

I remember his tears on desert island discs - the music was second, he knew about love. The best live band I ever saw - celebrate in peace. An inspiration - May I mourn your decline with some thunderbird wine. love
Simon Bamkin <sbamkin@btinternet.com>
Leicester, UK -

Ian was an inspiration; many reasons to be cheerful.
Linda Herrick <lherrick@xtra.co.nz>
auckland, new zealand -

I'm so sorry. Ian's music was part of my growing up. I feel as though I've lost someone I know.
To his wife and children - we are all thinking about you.
Sarah Turner
Cambridge, UK -

There ain't half been some clever bastards - Ian was top of the list.
Thanks to Steve Harley for his moving tribute on Monday at The Brook in Southampton.
Barry <barry@nexteclipse.co.uk>
Southampton, UK -

Farewell, "Actual Train." I met you in 1980, backstage with the Clash at the Tower Theater in Philadelphia. A chance meeting to be sure, but I will never forget your cryptic autographs on my friend's album covers ("To Ian, from Steve"), rendered in Magic Marker. Thanks for everything.
Paul Menser <pm45rpm.com>
Idaho Falls, USA -

Your music was an inspiration to me as a rebelious and fucked up teenager in the late 70's. (I've still got New Boots and Panties in gold vinyl.)
James van der Borgh <vanderborgh3@sympatico.ca>
Toronto, Canada -

Sweet Ian Dury, rest well mate.
Alan and Rose xxx
Danlace <RJ@Danlace.Freeserve.Co.Uk>
London, UK -

Seeing him play live in unlikely pub basements in the seventies, hearing his drumming(!) on Wreckless Eric's first singles, reading his always enlightening and humorous thoughts on the origins of rock 'n roll in Britain: I liked him for the dark bits as well as the cheerful ones. Condolences to all of us; he needs none.
Newton Key
Charleston, IL, USA -

Farewell, "Actual Train." I met you in 1980, backstage with the Clash at the Tower Theater in Philadelphia. A chance meeting to be sure, but I will never forget your crytic autographs on my friend's album covers ("To Ian, from Steve"), rendered in Magic Marker. Thanks for everything.
Paul Menser <pm45rpm.com>
Idaho Falls, USA -

What a much sadder place this country will be without your music,humour and courage Ian.
All the best werever your now gigging.
A sad loss for us all.
Terry Taylor <twktaylor@btinternet.com>
UK -

Oy! Oy!
Goodbye old friend...
Fond memories of the Hammersmith Odeon - Max and all the boys.
You were the best!
We love you.
Roger & Susan Pla <scp@ukgateway.net>
Maidstone, Kent, UK -

I saw Ian when he toured NZ in the 80's. Ihave collected virtually all the material he ever recorded. I feel a deep sense of loss of such a major talent. Through it all Ian remained a nice guy. We will sorely miss you mate !
Tony Scott <tony@synergetix.co.nz>
Auckland, New Zealand -

Hello? Can you hear me? Is this fuckin' microphone
working?
Goodbye Ian. Hit Me With Your Rhythm Stick and Sink My
Boats kept me semi-sane during my first year at Queen's.
You will be missed.
Sol Chrom
Toronto, Canada -

I saw Ian for the first time last year in December(Cambridge). A great gig. Can't believe there won't be another.
Sadly missed but I'll carry on listening to the CDs.

Steve L
UK -

" And the devil drives 'til the hearse arrives"
Keep on rocking Ian
Paul Mc
Liverpool, UK -

I count myself lucky having seen you live.I will miss you dearly,a true insparation anybody who can write "a bit of claggie on the waggie" is a genius. By Ian. Oi Oi
Ray <ray.korky@lineone.net>
bracknell, UK -

You gave us Reasons To Be Cheerful, RIP Ian Dury
your music will always live on.
Tony Foster <tony.foster@talk21.com>
UK -

with deepest sympathy to Ian's family and friends and of course the band. We will keep your music heard. R.I.P.
Jason Brooks <bassman@ministryofsound.net>
Lancashire, UK -

with deepest sympathy to Ian's family and friends and of course the band. We will keep your music heard. R.I.P.
Jason Brooks <bassman@minstryofsound.net>
Lancashire, UK -

Just such sad news,condolences to your family.The world's a colder place without you.
All the best mate!!
Charlie P.
Charlie P. <charliepreston@yahoo.com>
Cheltenham,Glos., UK -

Your Lyrics Made me laugh and Cry , bless you.
Rob Stride <doombaby@ic24.net>
UK -

Cheers for all the good memories. You were a diamond geezer and a true inspiration. You will be sadly missed but your music will live on with us always.
Michael Ashford
Birmingham, UK -

I have enjoyed your music for many a year. Your lyrics and upbeat sound are always there to pick me up. You will be sadly missed.
Gerard Kay <gkay@cityregina.com>
Saskatchewan, Canada -

Your my reason to be cheerful, you'll be sadly missed
Mark
Mark Rigler <mark@25records.com>
Poole, UK -

To the last great poet of the 20th century. Rest in Peace Ian. Thanks for the great show in December in Coventry...........Deepest sympathy to your family
Richard Hickman <Richard@jekyll.demon.co.uk>
UK -

I miss you, wee man. You were so good and so real. No shit. No airs and graces. No matches. No fair. Thanks. And heartfelt sorrow for your family.
Steve Letford <steve.letford@virgin.net>
North Connel, UK -

Mash it up!
Ade <spasticus@netclectic.co.uk>
Glasgow, UK -

So very sorry to hear this. I was fortunate enough to see him way back on the first Stiff tour. I cant imagine Ian died with many regrets. He seemed to live life to the max.
My memory always go back to a brief TV clip where I saw him recite a small poem in tribute to Charlie Mingus. God bless.
Scott
San Diego, USA -

With deepest condolences to a great man's family.
At about 16.11 on the 27th I was driving to Stanstead airport to pick up my father-in-law who was coming back from Ireland.Sitting in traffic on Tower Bridge a I heard the news by the DJ that "Rock Ledgend Ian Dury has lost his long fight against cancer".I couldnt quiet belive what I heard and still cant now.
I could never afford to see any of his gigs untill last December when I saved hard and took the wife to Fairfield Halls Croydon.I stood there most of the gig mezmorized by this man on stage obviously in great pain but still giving it his all.The final piece of my jigsaw of life was giving to me that night.He gave me all the confidence that i have lacked most of my life.Thank You and Thank You to the BBC for the documentary "ON MY LIFE".
I will now try to find the piece of the jigsaw taking away
on the 27th,but it will be a long long search.
THANKS FOR THE MUSIC IAN
R.I.P.
STEVE
Steve Sandiford <s.s@ssandiford.fsnet.co.uk>
Surrey, UK -

You gave me so many happy memories, you were such good fun to hear. Friars Aylesbury will always be with me. Sleep peacefully - Oy Oy!
Chris Kitchener <Chris.r.kitchener@virgin.net>
UK -

The passing of another top London Boy.....Gutted
Simon Southport
London, UK -

From a Madness Fan, who knows what an influence you had. I hope that Madness will dedicate a Madstock to your memory, although it won't quite be the same without you. Thanks for the fun.
Steve Chapman <steve-chapman@jstv-tx.freeserve.co.uk>
Surrey, UK -

You were and still are the Geezer!
Keep making us smile and be cheerful from up there.
It was a great experience to be around with you - long live rock 'n roll!
Ay, Ay!!
Jim McCombe <jim_mccombe@hotmail.com>
London, UK -

That's pretty harsh, to blame Ian for Madness. He shouldn't be held responsible for that shite band.

UK -

Sweet Ian Dury - young, not old - see you later...
Malky <malky@iomart.com>
Glasgow, UK -

A quite uniqiue and wonderful talent. His music brought, and will continue to bring, such joy to many people. My 7 and 4 year olds' already know all the words to "Mash it up Harry".

Our love and thoughts are with Ian's family.
John Breddy <John.Breddy@ukgateway.net>
Cambridge, UK -

Ian, I wanted to contact you through your latter years but never found the way. We all, parents and children, love your music. 'Laughter' even gets played on school trips. I planted a shrub yesterday which we called Ian. We shall always think of you as it grows. You were a kind, caring soul who had great talent, a love of life and a great altruism. We need more like you. You remain a great inspiration - long may you live in the hearts and minds of us all. We love you.

Pamela, Paul, Daniel, Matthew and Robert Lambert
Pamela Lambert <pal@lmail.freeserve.co.uk>
Cloughwood, UK -

a true genuine star sadly missed
kev <kpearcew@aol.com>
carlisle, UK -

Not since the assination of Kennedy have I felt so sad over the loss of such a great, great man. I never had the pleasure of meeting Ian, but felt I knew him through his music, and it makes me smile every single day. 20 years on and now my sons are enjoying it. Ian, you changed many peoples lives and touched so many with your lyrics. A great Poet, Musician, Entertainer and Comedian. What a Clever Bastard.
Bill Rowe
Basingstoke, UK -

Reasons to be cheerful?
Thanks
GeeBee
Newcastle, UK -

Ian should have been the poet laureate...ha ha ha
Just imagine him and old Queenie having a cuppa, and watching a Danny Kay movie..
A legend from Essex no less!

Judy
London, UK -

The most charismatic performer I ever saw. All the best mate from a fan. Deepest sympathy to your wife and children.
David Bailey <davidstepbailey@aol.com>
Caerphilly, UK -

Respect is due. My condolences to the family.
The world has lost a great poet. God Bless!
Josh <josh_cheuse@sonymusic.com>
NYC, US -

From Lewisham Odeon 17th December 1978 (my first ever gig) to
Croydon Fairfield Halls 19th December 1999 (my most recent...)
plus several times inbetween.

21 short years but the memories will live with me forever.

Our Father
Who art in Hendon
Harrow Road be Thy name
Thy Kingston come
Thy Wimbledon
In Erith as it is in Hendon
Give us this day our Berkhampstead
And forgive us our Westminsters
As we forgive those that Westminster against us
Lead us not into Temple Station
And deliver us from Ealing
For thine is the Kingston
The Purley and the Crawley
For Iver and Iver
Crouch End.

Go to sleep now, Ian
You've done all you can with the day
Safe and sound now, that's a promise
You'll be welcome in the Milky Way

Go to sleep now, Ian
Close your eyes....

Rest in peace mate.

Condolences to your family and friends.
Ernie <ernie_huggett@talk21.com>
Bromley, UK -

Sadley Missed
Goodnight and God bless
K & R
UK -

Heard the news and broke my heart, thx geezer for all the great times and the inspiration for all of us with disabilities, my best wishes and deepest condolences for your family. Hit Me....Hit Me....Hit Meeeeee
Doug aka Byte <byte@strayduck.com>
Waterlooville, UK -

There ain't half been some clever bastards!...as a spotty pubescent teenager babysitting in my neighbours house, the discovery of 'New Boots and Panties' in their record collection is a sweet memory of youth.A soundtrack to many naughty adventures!! Had recently bought the CD compilation to remind me, only to hear the sad news today. A gent and an original.
j <fawley_jude@hotmail>
Dublin , Eire -

IAN you gave me my rhythmn,you will be sorely missed
and never replaced,total respect geezer.you where the best.
my deepest sympathy to your family and friends.
glenn <zman@cwcom.net>
UK -

Sadly I only saw you once (Palladium this year) but what a gig!
The Itinerant Child travels on. Have a good journey Ian.
All the very best mate. Dave Turton Bradford.
Dave Turton <dave@a4djt.freeserve.co.uk>
Bradford, UK -

Ian was loved by millions and had a successful career depsite his disabilities. He kept fighting cancer right until the end. He will be sorely missed by millions.
Gaz <gaz@ic24.net>
Southampton, UK -

Just had to be here to say good bye.
Enjoy the great gig in the sky.
ayjaydee <ayjaydee@btinternet.com>
UK -

Sorry to see you go Ian. You was a good un.
Say hello to me mum while your up there.
Nick Askham <mrnoodle@bun.com>
scotland, UK -

I used to try to go to see the Blockheads whenever they played Bristol in 79,80,81. It wasn't just a gig it was like going to a brilliant party with all of your best friends. I have never experienced anything like it since. So many smiling happy people.Ian you had the charisma to make it like that, even when the other band members used to carry you on for the encores it was just brilliant. Thanks for those wonderful memories. Sorry that you weren't well enough to play at the Ross festival in August but I still have the wonderful memories. My heart goes out to your family, if we're feeling like this I can't imagine how they must feel. Good night, God Bless.
Debbie
Forest of Dean, UK -

Reasons to be tearful - we've lost a good 'un

All the best mate from a fan
Simon <woobag@aol.com>
Cheltenham, UK -

ian,just like you said "There aint half been some clever bastards"and in my opinion when it came to writing music you were right at the top.A real nice bloke who will be sadly missed.Thanks for many years of great music. Dave Knapper.
dave knapper <dave@reasonstobecheerful.co.uk>
UK -

Thank you. Your music gave me reasons to be cheerful when sometimes there weren't too many others.
You fronted the tightest, most accomplished band in the world. I'll never forget you.

RIP Geezer
Chris Denning <cycler@globalnet.co.uk>
Hounslow, UK -

Thanks Ian for the rythym stick, waking up and making love (I still sing that as I am doing it, even if it is with myself).
Wot a waste. R.I.P
Richard Parker <rwparker@drlogick.com>
Barrie, Canada -

Best gig I ever went to - Michael Sobel? centre, Dec 23rd 1980? Deep respect
Simon Wilkinson
Mortimer, Reading, UK -

You are an inspiration.
thanks for the time we spent chatting
love
Greenham
SARAH <swarhol@aol.com>
Glasgow, UK -

Thanks, Ian, for being so literate yet reachable. Your intelligent and melodic songs will remain classics for ever.
I will remember you as a sincere artist with a sense of responsibility as well as a sense of humour. Rest in peace.
Steve Ronson <RonsonM@aol.com>
Uttoxeter, UK -

So very sad; some people suffer so much. Thanks for all the music and your soaring spirit
Karen Morrison
UK -

I would just like to send my deepest sympathies to Ian's young family, and also to extend my gratitude to them for sharing someone who was a quite remarkable man, whose type may never be seen again.
Duncan Nagle <Duncan@Madstock.Co.Uk>
London, UK -

wITHOUT YOU, THERE WOULD BE NO MADNESS. I WISH I COULD COPE WITH PAIN IN SUCH A DIGNIFIED WAY.
WE'LL NEVER SEE THE LIKE AGAIN. IN AN INDUSTRY OF FAKES, YOU WERE A REAL PERSON.
Vincent Carden <dripfedvin@yahoo.com>
IRELAND -

GOOD EVENING! You were a fucking star, mate, and I appreciate it lots. Especially the last gig at the Palladium.
Pete Crook <petecrook@bigfoot.com>
London, UK -

Ian Dury & The Blockheads were the best live band ever and Ian Dury was an exceptional talent - artist, musician, actor and a really good bloke!
Joyce <joybell@tinyworld.co.uk>
UK -

An aging rocker says goodbye and thanks Ian.
Norm <Normsnowden@hotmail.com>
USA -

Never met Ian. Never saw the band. Never listened to any record in full.

But! Ian left a deep impression on me! If anything nasty ever happens to me, then I'll remember his attitude.

What an attitude!
James Miller <james@daisy.co.uk>
Newmarket, UK -

IAN you gave me my rhythmn,you will be sorely missed
and never replaced,total respect geezer.you where the best.
my deepest sympathy to your family and friends.
glenn <zman@cwcom.net>
UK -

mr love pants, we loved you then we love you now, ihope yourkids inherit your courage, zest for life and dignity. Thanks for stopping us sounding 'common' and all those
old bollo's

paul &lez <CHARLYRUB@pgibbs4.fsnet.co.uk>
kingston, UK -

New Boots and Panties was classed as the working mans Tubular Bells. I can't believe he's gone its a real emotional time 46 years old and cried my bloody eyes out.

Respects to family and fellow blockheads
Chris Larkman <larmanc@hotmail.com>
Tamworth, UK -

A sad day indeed, but I found a few reasons to be cheerful after playing Blockheads music during the day. It takes a lot longer to get up north the slow way.
Stephen Hall <shall@linz.govt.nz>
Wellington, New Zealand -

A unique, unclassifiable talent who touched everyone who listened. My seven year old daughter and her friends sing along in the car. Such great songs will live on forever, sadly Mr Dury is no longer with us.

With deepest sympathy for his family and friends.
Ian McCooey
Merseyside, UK -

RIP Ian. :(
Johan Voorhorst
Apeldoorn, Holland -

Your records were always played in my house when I was a young kid growing up, and I loved them. I have a lot of respect for what you stood for, and your uncompromising honesty. And you were damn funny too!! I will always hold your name in high regard. Respect Ian.
Phil
Victoria, B.C, Canada -

MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO IAN'S FAMILY
GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN, YOUR MUSIC ALWAYS GAVE ME REASONS
TO BE CHEERFUL.
REST IN PEACE IAN
DECLAN MC DERMOTT
DUBLIN, IRELAND -

It's been a very sad couple of days, my first experience of Ian was when the noise of "New Boots..." came screaming out of my friends stereo, I'd missed out on Kilburn and the High Roads so wasn't aware of this crazy, little man with a voice like a foghorn!
Then I heard the Blockheads, the funkiest bunch of white (among other colours) men I had ever heard. Chris (my wife) rang me at work to tell me the news, so I wouldn't find out by reading the evening paper. She cried when she told me, so did I.
The best people leave an aching inside of you, Ian Dury has left a lot of laughter, and a lot of good memories.
You will always be alive in the songs you wrote, and in the impact you had on a jaded generation of "pop fans".
We will always remember you. All our love and heartfelt condolences to Sophy and the kids.
Sex and drugs and rock and roll is very good indeed!
Ian & Chris Yeldham <yeldhams1@yahoo.co.uk>
Romford, UK -

Cheers for now Ian. Gonna miss you genuine warmth and your "spectacular venacular".
Tony Clark <tonycl@dircon.co.uk>
Surrey, UK -

Goodbye friend.
Hope to work with you and Barney again when the time is right.
Brome.

Bob Bromide <HALL4HHB@compuserve.com>
UK -

Lived and remembered
Brian <boland@xilinx.com>
Dublin, Ireland -

New Boots and Panties remains to this day, my favourite album of all time. Above all, Ian's music was FUN and that's what music is supposed to be all about. Only got to see him perform live once (at Finsbury Park supporting Madness)but his set was the highlight of the day.
God Bless Mate
David <dwyrd@aol.com>
Birmingham, UK -

clever trevor and new boots&panties all ways clean in the new life rest in peace brother
Kier
Cardiff, UK -

Nitto, tou have gone but will never be forgotten. You're music will live on through all the boplckheads out there.
Darren Stevenson <daz1977@hotmail.comm>
london, UK -

The greatest thing to have come out of Essex since Cortinas. Thanks for all the fun sweet Ian Drury.
John Powell <Johnpowell@supanet.com>
Abergavenny, UK -

All music fans will surely miss you, along with all the other great talents you join. There was surely NO 'waste', you gave so much to so many.

My condolences.

Andy Hewitt <hairy.biker@ntlworld.com>
Luton, UK -

In our heart, forever.Thanks for all.Ser�s siempre parte de nuestras vidas, gracias por tu m�sica, por tu sentido del humor, por tu tolerancia y por tu dignidad.ADIOS AMIGO.
Lis, Geno & Yta <lisrey@teleline.es>
Vigo, Spain -

the ultimate geezer i will miss you
dave <electrode@LineOne.net>
UK -

It feels like i've known you through your music all my life, and until now didn't realise how phenomenal it was - I just bought "Wart and Audience" and in some bizzare twist was listening to it when I heard the news. To say I'm gutted is an understatement. An increadible talant has been taken away. My heart felt condolances and love to your family and friends, I hope they heal soon. "Go to sleep now, Ian, close your eyes."
Hywel <hyweljones@breathemail.net>
cardiff, UK -

What can I say, geezer? Can't find the words. The fun in the dressing rooms after the gigs will be fondly remembered.
To Sophie, Billy, Albert,Jem, Baxter, Chas and the lads-I'm so sorry. Rest in Peace, Ian. The end of an era.
Darren in the Royal Navy <magicdaz@yahoo.com>
Portsmouth, UK -

god bless ian you was a great singer you are a sad loss to us all
barry lee <leebodger@aol.com>
grimsby, UK -

So glad you chose to play the fool - saw you in Warwick Dec '99 all in the party agreed it was the best concert ever - You will be sadly missed.
Sweeney <cbsweeney@yahoo.com>
Birmingham, UK -

Very sad that it�s happened....
But i think he has made his life at his best, and i hope he
died with a laughing on his face....
Bye,Ian.See you in my next life...Hit me with your rhytm�stick
MOND Alain <amond@pt.lu>
Esch/Alzette, Luxemburg -

You were a poet. You didn't need to worry.
With many regrets at the departure of a beautiful man, but also many memories of a lot of laughs listening to your songs, and sincere condolences to your family,
Richard.
Richard Cooper <rikc420@ukonline.co.uk>
London, UK -

Terrible day at work, due to joyous night sitting up playing all the Dury music. Even my wife didnt mind my 2 yr old daughter running round the house singing 'Lucky bleeders, lucky bleeders'.

Our thoughts are with Ian's family, especially Bill and Albert. And with Ian, forever and ever, Crouch End.

David Owen
David 'The Druid' Owen <david.owen@cyberdude.com>
Crewe, Cheshire, UK -

From the streets of Belgrade where I grew up, to the streets of Toronto where I live now, I never stopped to carry your music in my heart. God bless you. Laka ti zemlja!
Kizontije

Zoran Milenkovic <Mygmni@Hotmail.com>
Toronto, Canada -

Thanks Ian for all those special gigs over the past 21 years. I'll miss your live presence but your music will live on. Sincere condolences to family and friends. You were the diamond geezer.
Ian, Billericay <ian@parkinsi.freeserve.co.uk>
UK -

A highly intelligent man who wrote highly intelligent songs which were also great fun! Ian's recent life was an inspiration to all of us, especially those facing up to dark days through illness. All of his life should be held up as proof that disability can often be a positive thing. His death should not be mourned, but his life celebrated. Thanks for happy teenage memories!
Linda
Upminster, UK -

Ian you showed us how niceit was to be a lunatic-God bless ya mate!
Linda Kelly <Lkelly@zoom.co.uk>
Hull, UK -

The UEA gig on Feb 4 was THE best ever - raw emotion and sheer guts... you could have been home spending precious time with your family, but gave us a night to treasure instead. Thanks you for the music, the courage, the inspiration. The kids (8 & 10) and I will bop around the house this weekend to Sweet Gene Vincent as always, but this one's for you. Tough gig Ian!
Love always, and tears tonight.
gill crawley
Norwich, UK -

Thanks for showing us (y)our world.
Gary Acheson
UK -

A poet ,entertainer and alround diamond geezer
who will be missed by blockheads every where.
Thanks for the memories and wonderful songs.
Still partial to your abracadabra.
Dutch.
Dutch <karl3260@netscapeonline.co.uk>
Stoke, UK -

Without doubt the greatest entertainer of his time. I feel privilaged to have seen him live five times in the last year.

I feel my boats have sunk!

You will be sadly missed.
Julian Knowles <jabbak17@msn.com>
kingston, UK -

A NICE MAN,A BRAVE,DIGNIFIED,CARING MAN.A BRILLIANT WORDSMITH.WILL BE SADLY MISSED.
GEOFF. DEAKIN <GEOFFYANKEE@AOL.COM>
OLDHAM, UK -

You showed us glimpses Thanks
Roz
romford, UK -

Thanks for all ian !!!!!!!!!
E.Vendrig <e.vendrig@worldonline.nl>
haelen 6081gk, netherlands -

What a talent... you'll be greatly missed!
Simon <simon.crosby@talk21.com>
Ascot, UK -

Ian was a fantastically influential person. From New Boots & Panties to my personal favourite, the Chas Jankel influenced "Do It Yourself" and beyond, the lyrics really spoke to me, as they did to so many others. Ian Dury was an inspiration in so many ways and will be sorely missed. "Go to sleep now, Francis, close your eyes".
Neil Weedon <neil.weedon@virgin.net>
Sutton Coldfield, UK -

Thanks for all !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
E.Vendrig <e.vendrig@worldonline.nl>
haelen 6081gk, netherlands -

Ian - You were the first person that I saw live at the tender age of 14 at Leicester De Monfort Hall in 1981. The memory of that night has lived with me ever since. Your interviews with Nicky Campbell on 5 Live were an inspiration. You were a very rare and very true talent who gave us many more than three reasons to be cheerful. Your memory will live forever in your music. You will be sadly missed but very fondly remembered. Have a great time in Heaven - you deserve it.

Andrew
Andrew Lane <andrew@sportshoponline.co.uk>
London, UK -

You had dignity, no self pity, cared about others and entertained to the end. I'll always remember seeing you demonstrating putting a condom on an erect model penis on prime-time television in the 80s during an HIV/AIDS awareness week. Your music, lyrics and memories will always live on. Gordon Warren, Leicester UK.
Gordon Warren
Leicester, UK -

see you later
alberto
milano, Italy -

So long Ian, I will miss you. I have been a fan since the day I heard 'Sex & Drugs..' and have always loved your way with words. 'England's Glory' indeed!
John Gray
John Gray <JT.Gray@BTInternet.com>
Preston, UK -

My brother Martin gave me New Boots and Panties 21 years ago. He died five years ago, age 35. Whenever I hear Ian's music I'm thinking of him. So in my mind they will never die. Deepest sympathy.
Ann Pronk <apronk60@freeler.nl>
Rotterdam, The Netherlands -

When I stop crying, I will smile and drink to your memory. You were such a lovely bloke, and I've always admired your strength and loved your music. The world is a much sadder place without you. Thankyou for all that you have left us, all the memories, all the songs and all the concerts.
Goodnight Ian, you were indeed magnificent and we will all miss you so much.
My thought are with your family and friends with much love.
Linda
London, UK -

I was too young first time round but didn't miss the gigs on the Mr Love Pants Tour.

The gig at the Manchester University MDH was packed to the rafters, Ian was on brilliant form and the band at it's very best.

Gigs come and go, some you remember nothing of, some you remember bits and pieces of and very few you remember everything of. This was a gig I will never forget, it was A Dream Fulfilled.

God Bless.
Richard Pennell <richard.pennell@ukgateway.net>
Manchester, UK -

miss you lots ian you changed my life you may be not here but you will never be fogoton r i p
daz
darren <dmarkey@cableinet.com>
bradford, UK -

The original Diamond Geezer. We had the privalige to see Ian &
the blockheads at Warick University, Dec 99. I think this may have been his last gig ?,
What a gig, it ranks as the best gig we have EVER seen. My friend Des, saw the blockheads in Bristol 1977,
it was the first live, big name gig he went to. He could'nt say which was the best.....just goes to show how good they and of course Ian was.
Were gona miss him, and our sympathies go to all of his family and friends.
"There anit haf been some clever bastards"
Well we all know that.....
Al & Wend <alwendathome@usa.net>
Bristol, UK -

My parents raised me on "New Boots & Panties" even tho' I was too young to hear it 1st time around. cheers boss. RIP
tomasz <w_guice@hotmail.com>
UK -

I will miss you Ian. You were a 'genuine' man.
Have an 'ansom' rest now.
Dave
David Tollitt <dtollitt@net2000.com.au>
Melbourne, Australia -

What A Waste. You will be sadly missed but you have left us
with some pearls.
Deepest condolences to your family,friends and of course
your Blockheads. Thank you for enlightening us.
All our love mate, Lee and Sarah
Lee and Sarah <lee.harris@ticketmaster.co.uk>
LONDON, UK -

"That guy was a true gentleman." -Linton Kwesi Johnson, remembering gigs with Ian Dury & the Blockheads, 1999

Condolences to family, friends, and bandmates. Friends do rule supreme.
Eric Beaumont <e_beaumont@yahoo.com>
Milwaukee, USA -

Wow! Heard the sad news this morning in my car. I became an instant fan in '78 when I heard the single "Wake Up and Make Love"/"What a Waste". I immediately when out and purchased new boots and panties, and his LP by the same name. Loved your lyrics, loved your killer band! Actually, we were "label mates" briefly when the band I played keybords in, "Wazmo Nariz" released a single on Stiff in '78 or '79. I remember Wazmo (the singer) telling me about the first time he played "New Boots and Panties!!" at his parents home, and rushing to turn down the volume when the words "Assholes, Bastards, F...." came blaring out so his mom wouldn't hear. I love when I meet someone who's not familiar with Ian so I can "turn them on" to ID/Blockheads. Ian was a huge inspiration to me and my bandmates back then, and I recently purchased a compilation CD and have greatly enjoyed "re-discovering" that clever bastard. So sad to hear the news (it's reason to be tearful). Condolences to Family and Blockheads.
Jeff Boynton <jboynton@blankstare.com>
Los Angeles, US -

:-(((
L. <elldot@my-deja.com>
UK -

Always the GOOD die young. Thanks for the great memories and songs, You will be sadly missed! Big strength to your family. I hope Billy And Albert remember how special you were. Thanks Ian and God Bless
Rob Stickells <Rob.Stickells@tesco.net>
Southampton, UK -

Goodbye to a very wonderful man. I saw the Blockheads with Ian Dury ten years ago in Brixton, and that amazing magic that Ian gave to his audience has stayed with me ever since. A truly sad loss to everyone.
Steve Day <s.day@virgin.net>
London, UK -

a sad day for musickind . . . . a sad day for us all - God Bless You Ian
Sandra Whetham <s_whetham@hotmail.com>
Manchester, UK -

A top bloke who will be greatly missed.
I remember those blockhead days and enjoyed. Wil always remember the joy he bought to many music lovers in the seventies,thanks for some great tunes ian. love and condolences julie aherne.
pukkajules
UK -

A jewel in the crown of England's glory, if ever there was one. One of the most original songwriters and compelling performers Britain has produced. A wit with grit and a gentleman to boot. We will not see (or hear) his like again.
Bill Hodgson <mail@billhodgson.co.uk>
London, UK -

Living in the USA, I have not had the chance to see Ian Dury too much. However, I did see him on the 1978 Be Stiffs tour at the Bottom Line in New York City. He certainly was unique, and the New Boots and Panties album is a classic. Although he was quintessentially English, this is one American who truly loved his music.
ken wexler <jollyhangman@aol.com>
brooklyn, USA -

I was only talking about one of his songs ("Clevor
Trever") in a conversation with my girlfriend on Sunday.

His music was part of the soundtrack to my teenage years, with songs
like "What a Waste", "Reasons to be Cheerful, Pt3", "Hit Me With Your
Rhythm Stick", "The Inbetweenies", and of course the clasiic "Sex 'n'
Drugs 'n' Rock 'n' Roll".

I remember my sister had the "New Boots and Panties" album, but she'd
never play it all the way through in full hearing range of our parents
because of that song with all the naughty words on.

Then there was the b-side to "Rhythm Stick", a fun little ditty called
"There Ain't Half Been Some Clever Bastards", which we kids DID play a
lot, probably cos - being kids - we got off on the shock value.

Anyway, here's me wiping away a tear from my eye, and remembering a
great rock'n'roll character.
Gavin Lloyd Wilson <gavinlloydwilson@yahoo.com>
Oxford, UK -

I took my girlfirend to see you at the Palladium, she'd never heard of Ian Dury & the Blockheads, now she's nicked all me CD's!! take care up there geezer.

steve
oxford, UK -

What a geezer! i was lucky enough to see him live on a couple of occasions and he was always knockout! Favourite lyric? - "This is whhat we find" - the verse beginning "Home improvement expert Harold Hill of Harrow Hill..." The only response to such an early death - WHAT A WASTE!
STEVE SMITH <ROCKPOP54>
BRISTOL, UK -

I will never forget standing in row J on the 6th feb, wonderful songs, wonderful memories. We will all cherish them forever, and your memory will live on...forever. god bless mate.
pete matthews
Harlow, UK -

The end of an era? I think not!
True genius never dies ... it just lives on in peoples' hearts and minds.

God bless!

With much love from me and all Blockheads Universe-wide!
Hilary King <Placementace@aol.com>
York, UK -

I give thanks for a great lyric writer who helped make Essex women famous and added so many wonderful phrases to the English language. Ian will always be able to make me smile. Thanks
Sue Jay (Dragon)
Essex, UK -

Rhythmn Stick was the first song I ever remember liking. In that sense it was Ian that got me into this whole music thing. He will be fondly remembered & sadly missed.
Rob Lang <barmyrob@yahoo.co.uk>
Brighton, UK -

One of my happiest memories is when you walked onstage at Madstock in 92 an shouted oi oi, waited years to see you live an that just made a great day even better. Thanks for the fun, laughter and music over the years you were always my inspiration.

See ya Geezer, RIP Mr Lovepants I`ll miss you
Mike H <mike.hearne@virgin.net>
Darlington, UK -

Hanx and goodbye for now.
Neil
UK -

God Bless you Sir Ian, You shall never be forgotten.
Long Live Ian Dury,
Goodnight, God Bless.
Wee Stoo <WeeStoo@tesco.net>
Glasgow, UK -

What a tragic day. Ian is one of the greatest stars that UK music has ever produced with one of the best bands. His music provided a backdrop for my teens- and has become one of the sounds that defines me. I saw him and the mighty Blockheads six times in the eighties. As well as twice at Glastonbury (once with the short-lived Music Students) my favourite gig was the one on Christmas Eve at the Micheal Sobell Centre, just two minutes from my home, supported by the Selector. He was amazing. His band were tighter than a nun's nasty!!! I never went to see him again after the Charley Charles memorial gigs at the Forum. I don't know why. I should have. Maybe I thought he would live forever. We'll never see his like again.
Andrew Missingham <andrew.missingham@virgin.net>
London, UK -

Words can not describe how I felt when I heard about the death of the great Ian Dury. I only wish I could have seen him play live like my dad did back in the 70's. He will always be remembered as a great lyricist and true fighter. Long live Mr. Dury
Simon Mulvaney <Simon_Mulvaney@hotmail.com>
Sunderland, UK -

Ian Dury,my first real hero,aged 11 I bought 'NEW BOOTS & PANTIES'changed my effin'life,after playin' PLAISTOW PATRICIA had to hide the album from me mum (she was disgusted,and thats the way I liked it)after that I wrote to him via STIFF Records,and in return he sent me loads of stuff including 2 signed photos,which I've still got on my wall,21 years later,IAN DURY was under heavy natural dread,you are natty pal and will be missed.
MANNERS <manners1@supanet.com>
Nottingham, UK -

Sadly missed for all those wonderful lyrics...
From one Billericay Dickie to another...
Jane Nixson
Billericay, Essex, UK -

THE LYRICS FROM ONE OF HIS SONGS SAID 'ALL I WANT FOR MY BIRTHDAY IS ANOTHER BIRTHDAY ' SO SORRY, SUCH A GREAT BLOKE.
MARK ASTON <MARKASTON@IC24.NET>
STOURBRIDGE, UK -

1st concert of my life was Ian Dury & the Blockheads, Whirlwind & Matumbi @ The Coventry Appollo....Best gig ever..Will miss your abracadabra..
Steve Dorrell <steve@sdorrell.freeserve.co.uk>
Banbury, UK -

I always felt that Ian was one of us, a real person who got through the crap of life and also made life better for others with his music. My brother was a musician, and also died of cancer last year, so I know from experience that we not only lose the man, but also their potential to create more music. Ian, if you can read this from the great e-heaven in the sky, thanks for beating polio, battling cancer and making our lives that little bit richer for doing so.
allie <Allie.passfield@btinternet.com>
colchester, UK -

reasons to be cheerfull ---- nil
can't wait for you to hit me with your rythm stick on the other side Ian. Thanks for all the music and fun.
Bazza Duckworth <bazza_d@tpg>
Sydney, australia -

We loved you, mate, very much.You blessed us with your dogon music, and your special art. Rest now (if you want)

Eileen and Colin, Kisses
colin sims <csims@faroc.com.au>
Perth, Australia -

Saw Ian & The Blockheads on the 1st Stiff Tour with Elvis Costello, Wreckless Eric, Larry Wallis and Nick Lowe. Overiding memory was of Ian playing drums for Wreckless Eric. He didn't have a fucking clue, but grinned from ear to ear throughout. Finale was 30 minutes of one of the greatest anthems - Sex & Drugs & Rock & Roll.

Bloody Brilliant. Thanks Ian, you are a gentleman and a star.
Simon Higgins <simon.higgins@sonybpe.com>
Guildford, UK -

Ian, in faraway Cincinnati I would copy your music from my vinyl to cassette and listen to it in the car while waiting to pick up my mom from work. I will play from the same vinyl to my kids, if and when, I promise.
Condolences to family and Blockheads.
-- Marek
Marek Lugowski <marek@enteract.com>
Chicago, US -

I will miss you Ian. You made me smile and you made me feel happy. You were very special , Paul
Paul Linwood <paul@ukmajortom.com>
Cambridge, UK -

it's been a sad day for rock and roll, ian dury will be missed
glindon <geceel@hotmail.com>
liverpool, UK -

I'll miss your Englishness
Trevor H
Crawley Down West Sussex, UK -

I bought my first proper album in 1976, aged 13 - NB&P.
Ever since I have been a big fan of Britains most English
and charismatic entertainer. They invented the word Unique for Ian. Now you have gone...Fucking Ada.
Dan <dannyl@btinternet.com>
Leicester, UK -

RIP you clever bastard....
You will surely be missed
Louis Wright <lowrights@netscape.net>
Mount Pleasant, USA -

"Reasons to be cheerful" was a wonderful affirmation of life and all its joys. A hymn that will put Ian in good stead with his maker. I'll join you later...
Mark Ward
Norfolk, UK -

There ain't half been some clever bastards. You were the cleverest.

I'll never forget seeing you perform at Madstock all those years ago. Memories last forever.

Goodnight, Uncle Ian.

Andrew
Andrew Langmead <andrew@alangmea.freeserve.co.uk>
Hounslow, UK -

Thanks Ian. Condolences to all your family.
Steve K
UK -

I'm so sorry. He was a good man.
paul williams <paulgwilliams@msn.com>
trowbridge, UK -

It was a privilege to see you at the Palladium on the 6th, Ian - your lyrics have always been an inspiration. You'll be missed so much but never ever forgotten - thanks for the great memories you leave behind. Condolences to all who were lucky enough to know you.
Nicola Dundon <Nicola.Dundon@tesco.net>
Kent, UK -

My admiration and respect for Ian can't be easily put into words. To me, Ian represented everything good about rock and roll. Thanks for great laughs and an awesome groove.
Brian Trudell
Los Angeles, USA -

Only saw you once, B'ham Odean. A night of comady and pathos
we came out spellbound.
Your music lives on. Condolences to your family and all other Blockheads.
Trevor and Ann <trevor.fultonmoore@btinternet.com>
Worcester, UK -

we see
us in the next live.
Rainer Germany
Rainer <rainer120464@aol.com>
Remscheid, Germany -

My mum hated Sex And Drugs And Rock And Roll, but not as much as she hated Rhythm Stick. That's why I loved them. Thanks for everything.
Dan
London, UK -

All the best mate, from a fan

Tim
Tim Porter <tcporter@compuserve.com>
Gloucester, UK -

Ian, as you read these messages from the great web browser in the sky, please know how much your music was appreciated! I only knew a few songs myself (including Reasons... & Hit Me...) but they bring back super memories (especially of a cold clear sky twilight in the northwest suburbs of Boston MA in November 1979. Keep on rocking and say hello to my brother up there who was a big fan of yours!
-Brian
Brian
Woburn MA, USA -

Sadly, we've lost another link to a time not that long ago, when music was fun. There was no time for angst whining for this gentleman. We'll miss you Ian.
Ron Favale <rfava@cfer.com>
Avenel, USA -

Deepest sympathy to Ian's Family and Friends.

I'd rather he was a fool in a six piece band - certainly not a waste to all who were cheered by his music.
Steve Hopwood <ste@hopwo19.freeserve.co.uk>
Manchester, UK -

I had the pleasure of seeing him in concert at Perth City hall last year.Sadly missed always in our hearts.
Scott Gordon <saints117@netscapeonline.co.uk>
Perth, UK -

I was listening to some very dreary music in 1977 when "Clever Trevor" jumped out of the radio. Suddenly there was something witty, intelligent and musical to listen to. Ian had an amazing ability to write songs that were funny without being trivial, and that exploited the language to the full. He also had a knack of attracting first rate musical collaborators.

Although he will be missed, he achieved a great deal, both musically and by the example he set in overcoming disability and illness for so long.

Shall we mourn his decline with some Thunderbird wine?
Andrew Hind <andrew@citybeat.org.uk>
Leicester, UK -

It's always really sad to learn of what people have done in this way...
My condolences to you all...
Gary Powell <harvey@altern.org>
Indiana, US -

the rhythm stick is still swinging =>where would rap be today without you? good work fella.nuff respect.
pa-D <cocoshunter@hotmail.com>
UK -

You were the Geezer!
John Halliday
Los Angeles, usa -

I saw The Blockheads 3 times in the last couple of years and the gigs at the Forum and last month at the palladium were 2 of the best nights of my life..for a man supposedly dying he made me feel so alive.His warmth wit and intelligence shone through and it is a tragedy we have been robbed of future nights to admire. But most of all the world is worse off without Ian Dury and my sincere sympathies go out to his family and close friends.Oi Oi !
Patrick Stevens <ahoypatsy@aol.com>
Berkhamsted, UK -

SEX AND DRUGS AND ROCK'N ROLL FOR EVER !
THANKS IAN
LUCA <lcucco@montplast.com>
milan, ITALY -

Heaven has been waiting for his brand of entertainment for some time...
Guy Liddell <guy.liddell@blm-law.com>
Halifax, UK -

Ian,
As your song says "Your My Inspiration".
You kept my chin up during some very rough years. God Bless
Whack Attack <jamesm@corbis.com>
New York, USA -

Respect.. Rest In Peace Ian
Tony Brands <tonbra@chello.nl>
Eindhoven, Holland -

Before I started listening to Madness and the Kinks, there was Ian Dury, and I always felt lucky when I could get my hands on something here in the U.S. It's a shame he never became better known here and I never got to see him live or meet him. Still, the records always felt very personal and always will. With the fantastic Mr. Love Pants, "Drip Fed Fred," possibly a posthumous album and his work for health causes, Ian really went out on top. My condolences to all. "All stand and raise your champagne glass."
Jeff Young <jmy67@yahoo.com>
Haverstraw, NY, USA -

Diamond geezer and a truly beautiful human bean. From one essex man to another.
peter wilkin <p.wilkin@lancaster.ac.uk>
lancaster, UK -

Ian will be greatly missed...I know this is a cliche but his spirit will live on through the great tunes he left us.
Carol <cschneck@capitalcrossing.com>
Boston, USA -

On behalf of my mum, as shes not online...yet... and me, she played your albums to me as a child, your lightheart and positivity will be treasured...
:')
Eppo <ep.o@usa.net>
london, UK -

I've been a huge admirer of Ian Dury through his career, went to every gig I could and wrote him a fan letter after seeing Apples at the Royal Court. In my view he was the last great link with English popular culture, going back at least as far as Grimaldi. With all the same hatred of snobbery, hypocrisy and cruel wealth which all the great English popular entertainers have had. That said, he was also one of the greatest rock and roll performers ever, with about the best, tightest band ever. I once had a piss next to him when we were recording at the same studio but I was too shy to say hello. One of my very few regrets in life.
Thanks for this chance to say a few words about a man who was, with Woody Guthrie and one or two others, one of my heroes.
Mike Moorcock, Lost Pines, Texas.
Michael Moorcock <conjuror@flash.net>
Lost Pines, Texas -

Condolences to the family of Uncle Ian. He achieved so much and touched so many hearts. Gutted! A true genius who smiled through everything.
Brendan Phipps <m_m_management@hotmail.com>
Yateley, UK -

God bless Ian. Thanks for everything
Neil Greggor <Neil@Greggor.freeserve.co.uk>
UK -

Still refuses to sink in.The most humble of men, the most wittiest, the most talented wordsmith, you put us all to shame.Never again will i feel sorry for myself,you brought me pleasure i barely deserved.It was an honour to once clasp my sweaty palm upon yours.You can be a crumb in my lemonade.All i want for my birthday is to give you one of them.Let the party begin ,celebration, cheerefulness, its what you would have wanted.
jeremy harris <jeremy34-uk@yahoo.co.uk>
windsor, UK -

Your music lives on. Condolences to your family and your many fans.
Nick
Washington, DC, USA -

A total God of a bloke. The best lyrics in the music business. The Blockheads live were always blinding, especially the Charley Charles tribute gigs.
God bless old boy

Ken McCulloch <kennymcc@msn.com>
London, UK -

Keep on hitting them with that rhythm stick Ian. A top man who pleased many, many people both young, old, able bodied and infirm with you're own inimitable style. A true ambassador of rock genius. You'll be sadly missed.
Roger Moroney <Roger.Moroney@Worldspan.com>
London, UK -

Rest in peace Ian, you will be missed by so many people who were never fortunate enough to meet you.
JJMB, Oxford
UK -

Thanks for the music & the memories. Lets celebrate your life.
Mick Milne
LONDON, UK -

I am still in utter shock that he has died. Please send my condolences to his family and friends

Paul (Wozza) Wassell.
David Wassell
-

Condolences from the WHO Polio Team in Geneva.
I was so sad to hear the news this morning. But I know the
world is a better place for the contributions Ian made.
Poet, musician, philosopher, campaigner, a real hero in a
time of fictional heroes. He'll be missed but not forgotten.
Dr Ray Sanders <sandersr@who.ch>
Geneva, Switzerland -

Good bye to a great man....
Andi S. <MAccident@aol.com>
Germany -

Ian.....you came...you saw....you conquered.....you were one blinding diamond of a geezer.....never knew you personally....but wish i had......gawd bless you my son......may we meet again.....the world is a smaller place without you.....but your memory will i am sure live on and on......
Graham <graham_yates@hotmail.com>
Cuffley, Herts, UK -

...shall I mourn your decline with some Thunderbird Wine and a black handkerchief...
The Tom Waits of the East End, the world is certainly a less funny place...
Steve
Budapest, Hungary -

I was greatly saddened to hear today that Ian has passed on. Please pass on my sympathies to his family and to all close to him.

Ian was one of the very few artist who could bring a smile to my face when I heard one of his tracks. That won't change now.

Regards

Mark Wilson

Mark Wilson
UK -

The joy, the humanity, the wordplay, the vibes, the naughtiness and the memories will live on. I was coming over to London see you in concert next month. I'll still come, but instead raise a few pints, remember and smile. You were inspirational, I'll miss you.
Rob Corbett <rob_corbett@cbc.ca>
Toronto, Canada -

I've just heard the terrible news.

Not that I'm very important - but please put me on the list of people who thought he was great.

Paul
Paul Leaper
-

Although it is terribly sad to hear of Ian Dury's
death, he will live forever through his music.

Mirielle Keeling <keeling@cmc.ca>
Kingston, Ontario, Canada -

arseholes, bastards fucking cunts, and pricks!!!!!, Very sad that you've passed on Ian. An old mate of mine introduced me to your music and wordsmithery, a veteran of Kilburn and the High Roads gigs in Dingwalls etc...what a waste!Your gig in dublin on June 23rd last was an absolute joy, sorry you didn,t make it to Glastonbury that weekend.Anyway your music and your great lyrics will endure as will my memories of your performances...cheers, and say hi to Joyce and Vicky!
Ruaidhri Mc Auliffe <ruaidhrimcauliffe@hotmail.com>
Dublin, IRELAND -

My condolences to Ian's relatives. He will be so missed by so many to whom you gave so much. We have to leave the party sometime . . . . .

Rest in peace now Ian

Mark
Mark Woods
-

Rest forever in peace
C Springham
-

Only the good die young.
Ingrid <IngridSnail.1@aol.com>
Munich, GER -

Since I bought the 'Live Stiffs' album in the late 70's I have been given many hours of entertainment by the great man.

Ian's dry humour and working class observation was a joy for those of us priveliged enough to hear it. A great loss to us all. Please pass on my condolences. I will still gain great enjoyment from the music left to us, but there was surely so much more to come.

A great human being, taken too early.

With fondest memories

David Owen
David Owne
-

Our thoughts go out to your family. I don't think anyone else will have the same influence on my life musically, as you have. A fighter to the end, enjoying and savouring everything in the world. I hope everyone takes a leaf from you book, as I sure will.
Kevin Farr <cheezie_grin@hotmail.com>
Langley, Slough, UK -

One of the best has gone - at least we still have his music
Terry Clear <teecee@mercuryin.es>
Malaga, Spain -

Fantastic charisma, he and his music will be sorely missed.
Claire <slinkybutt@hotmail.com>
London, UK -

Sorry to hear about Ian.

That's an end of an era.

Best, Adam
Adam Pollock
UK -

Hi guys,

Just heard the news about the little guy. Life sucks.

I'm still hoping that its Bob Geldof that's got it wrong again but I fear not.

Alex
ALex Alexander
UK -

Goodnight, god bless, you were a one off and we're poorer for your passing...
Pete Kavanagh <pete@fanque.demon.co.uk>
London, UK -

First of all, please pass on my condolences to Ian Dury's family and friends - he will be greatly missed

Huw
Huw Lynd-Evans
UK -

Please accept our thoughts for Ian Dury. He brought great happiness.
Best wishes to all

Andy Young
Andy Young
UK -

I remember the days of the Canterbury College of Art. So long Ian. Deepest condolences to the family
Karl Greenwood <karlgwd@sgi.net>
Pittsuburgh, US -

It's a sad day for all of us today.
Our thoughts are with Ian's family & friends.
A real Geezer, sadly missed

The Lucas Family
The Lucas Family
UK -

What a lovely man. I feel privileged to have been part of his world.

Phil J
Phil Jupitus
UK -

Thank You
Guido Senge <senge@ireland.com>
Dortmund, Germany -

A Sunday Night At The London Palladium...What a fitting finale from the best in the business. I will never forget that night or all the others.
You were more than fair..

All The Best Mate

Simon Ward
London, UK -

Shocked and sad as I was this morning to hear the news on the radio as I woke, I could'nt help but smile at the memory of me (9) and my sister (8) jumping about like idiots to hit me with your rhythm stick the first time we heard it on Radio 1. Your strength was an inspiration to us all and my thoughts and love go to all the family. I was a few years below Gemima at Arts Ed and I did a couple of promo shoots with Charlie and I thought then & still think now you were very lucky to have such a cool dad. Sadness is bad, memories are good. Keep strong. Much love AmandaXX
Amanda Tinker <ATinker@candi.ac.uk>
London, UK -

Shocked and sad as I was this morning to hear the news on the radio as I woke, I could'nt help but smile at the memory of me (9) and my sister (8) jumping about like idiots to hit me with your rhythm stick the first time we heard it on Radio 1. Your strength was an inspiration to us all and my thoughts and love go to all the family. I was a few years below Gemima at Arts Ed and I did a couple of promo shoots with Charlie and I thought then & still think now you were very lucky to have such a cool dad. Sadness is bad, memories are good. Kepp strong. Much love AmandaXX
Amanda Tinker <ATinker@candi.ac.uk>
London, UK -

Gracias por tan buenos momentos
Gracias por tu compa�ia durante decadas
Gracias por todo lo que nos has ense�ado
Gracias por haber sido El mejor.
ARE YOU A BLOCKHEAD? Yes Ian, we are a Blockheads forever.
Jordi Borgu�o & Carlos Barbera <scoreboards@baybor.com>
Barcelona, Spain -

So many concerts and so many happy memories. Can't believe you are gone, what a waste. Your songs will remain with us as to spur us on. Condolences to your family at this very difficult time.
Love
Annick
Annick
Portsmouth, UK -

Ian was a top person and a top artist, i'm so deeply saddened heis gone. my deepest condolences to his family and friends. we won't see the likes of him ever again.

walter
walter ocner <wocner@medialink.com>
New York City, USA -

With deepest sympathy to Ian's family and with deepest gratitude, respect and love to Ian. I shall mourn your decline with some Thunderbird wine tonight, kidda - Your music gave me the nerve to ask out and the courage not to cry when she left.

Gus Noble <gusnoble@msn.com>
Chicago, USA -

All I can say is that the music industry has lost one of the finest charters in the business. A man who looked death in the eyes and still stood tall till the very end.

Goodbye Ian "Mr love pants" Dury. You shall be missed old friend
Scott Gunnell <scottgunnell@hotmail.com>
London, UK -

My (now) husband and I had the priviledge of seeing you perform in Northampton in December '98 with Reckless Erik. At the time, the only music of yours I was familiar with was what had been popular in the US -- primarily "Sex, Drugs and Rock-n-Roll." I came away from that evening thinking what a brilliant guy you were and how FAR ahead of your time you were. I am now a devout fan and have played your New Boots and Panties CD so often it's practically unplayable now. I will go to the shops and pick up a new CD today in your honor...and I'll have a pint after work too. I'll miss you :-(
Sydney Graham <sgraham2@etrade.com>
Portola Valley, USA -

Good bye ian !
Heinz Oellers <HeinzOO@aol.com>
Negenharrie, Germany -

Top Geezer and a cheeky chappy - so long
Jon Yates <jonyates@ossian.net>
Edinburgh, UK -

Since the first time I heard your inspirational "What a waste!" I've loved your songs. Thanks for many happy memories. And thanks too for your matter of fact attitude in the face of your cancer. You helped me to work through mine last year. Condolences to your family. Thanks for sharing Ian with us
Jean
London, UK -

Ian,
You were always an example for the triumph of the spirit
over adversity to me, and the music legacy you have left
will live forever. You wasn't 'alf a clever b****rd!
Benj
Richard Benjamin <benj.chels@prodigy.net>
Chicago, USA -

I'll never forget a riotous concert at The Hammersmith Odeon where bouncing and rocking through the night, he led us all a merry dance, scarves snapping in the air like birds fluttering around him. Having raised the crowds into an audience explosion of untamable energy with numbers like"Blockheads", he brought the evening to a gentle close with a lullaby that sent us home somehow both energized and at peace. You took us places, changed us. Thanks for that.
Gareth Brown <gareth.brown@hbo.com>
New York, USA -

Courage, wit, artistrty--what more could he have given us? Thanks, Ian.
Harry Shearer
USA -

My Dad once rode in a lift with Ian in a Toronto hotel back in the seventies. His description: "Couldn't figure out what he was wearing, but he was bloody polite." His conclusion - don't ever judge a book by it's cover.
You defined the 70's Ian.
Ron kelterborn <rkelterborn@tk.ca>
Toronto, Canada -

Ian, I only know a couple of songs of yours, but I think they were great. Always read your interviews. Even then you were and are a big inspiration. Condolences to your family.
hans <hans@rust.nl>
rotterdam, Holland -

Always one more surprise around the corner.

Humourous as an artist believable as an actor even when cast against type.

A sad loss.
David Plummer
UK -

Ian,

Sheffield Fiesta Club, Xmas 1981. Crazy string and joie de vivre. New Boots and Panties has always been my Desert Island Album. Quite simply, you changed my life.. I'll never forget the joy and laughter you've brought me in the last 20 years. My kids love you too!! Sympathy to your family.

Dr. Hugh Rickards.
Consultant in Psychiatry
Dr. Hugh Rickards <hugh.rickards@sbmht.wmids.nhs.uk>
Birmingham, UK -

You were a top bloke Ian, and we'll all miss your wit and laughter
Chris Stewart <christopher.stewart@bigfoot.com>
Aberdeen, UK -

I have loved Ian Dury's music and listened to it, year in and
year out, since I was about 13 years old (I'm 34 now). I loved his
performances (and will always love his music) because it was
original, hilarious and encouraged us to poke fun at ourselves.
It's all the more inspiring given his ability to rise above his
disabilities and illnesses and bring attention to these causes.
Ian Dury, I will miss you!

Ed Gray
With a Razzle in my Pocket as the Second Prize
Ed Gray <ed_gray@digidesign.com>
Palo Alto CA, US -

Oh... Segovia.
Deepest thanks and respect to an inspirational human being.
Claire <chibbitt@uk.brodeur.com>
London, UK -

we should not be sad he�s gone, weshould beglad to know him RIP
Ren� <Pharisaer@planet-interkom.de>
germany -

Finally got to see you at the Palladium, an inspiration to a spotty 70's kid and a reason to be cheerful. Gutted your gone, I cant find the lemons to say how I feel. From a pencil squeezer teacher in W3, cheers
richard bruce <rbruce67@hotmail.com>
London, UK -

i well recall the first day i listened to his
music. this was the period when i already started
to change my live and so i did
his music alway reminds me of that event
his time came and i do believe that it is not the end
BruneHeinz <BruneHeinz@aol.com>
Ahlen, Germany -

There are a lot of clever b*stards about, but some of us are sadder after the loss of Ian Dury.
Geoff Bruce <gbruce1030@aol.com>
Cambridge, UK -

Now and again someone comes along who touches something inside of me and I think thank goodness for that , because it is that which keeps me going, keeps me hopeful, and Ian Dury was one of those something's and Shepherds Bush last year was and will remain special. The world was a richer and more joyful place because of Ian Dury and we are all a little poorer for his passing.
Gone but certainly not forgotten.
simon
harrow, UK -

im sixteen but firmly appreciate the music he gave to us. Ive been to see the blockheads twice in the last year and the experience will be one that lives with me for always. I think Dury's songs captured the hearts of many with the down to earth lyrics about things the english public know and love. i know youll be up there now smiling down

Ian you gave me a reason to be cheerfull
thankyou
David Needham <davida_needham@hotmail.com>
herfordshire, UK -

An inspiration who lived life to the full, and with great dignity. My sincere condolences to his wife and children.
Cormac McKenna <Cormac.McKenna@icl.ie>
Dublin, Ireland -

one of my most treasured posessions, an Anita Harris lp thrown into the crowd by Ian at a blockheads gig! A true original. 'Ave some of that! miss you already.
tony simpson
UK -

I can't believe you're gone Ian, we'll all miss you, you've gone to that big gig in the sky, "ich liebe dich!".

Wozza.
Paul "Wozza" Wassell <david.wassell@btinternet.com>
Shropshire, UK -

Thank you for your joy, and for being so darn gorgeous. Come on mate, Boogie!

Will miss having you around.

Love,

OC.
Olivia_cheyne
London, UK -

A diamond Geezer with the personal courage of ten men.
One of the true greats, thoughts and wishes to those he has left behind.
What a waste? I don't think so.
Mark Davyd
London, UK -

He really was "Very Good Indeed"
Matt Porter <matt@mattporter.co.uk>
Hitchin, UK -

Sex & Drugs & Rock n Roll.... sadly missed
Allen Kiely <allen.kiely@98fm.ie>
Dublin, Ireland -

Thanks for the good times uncle ian.
miss you loads
Steve
London, UK -

Gutted. Condolences to the families!
Ian <iabrown@geocities.com>
Up North, Sweden -

Missed but not forgotten...Essex Girls remember

Jack Cowling <jack.cowling@zoom.co.uk>
Colchester, UK -

Shocked to read about Ian on the frontpage of my newspaper this morning. We lost an icon of rock & roll and therefore he will never be forgotten!
Wil Pullen <stienwil@kabelfoon.nl>
Schiedam, Netherlands -

The first an to mention "Romford" in a song. I was partial to your Abracadabra.Goodbye
Matthew Howes <matt@mhowes.demon.co.uk>
Brentwood,Essex, UK -

Young, then old, then gone. Your last gig at the Palladium summed it all up. I was amazed, as ever, and charmed. We'll miss you loads, but never forget you.
Matt Lloyd
London, UK -

Got a crinkly mouth today. Loved you since Billy Bentley - All the pearls of Essex wisdom & humour. All the best mate
Stevie Philipps
Oxford, UK -

I still can't get over the bass line in hit me with your rhythm stick which made me want to take up the instrument.
Ian dury was a proper reason to be cheerful in a cynical world.
Thanks for showing people how to laugh,
Rest in peace
Ned
Ned
UK -

IAN you make the world seem so sad.
thank you & respect for your song&message.

CAKE@yamada <Keiki.Yamada@ccc.co.jp>
hirakata, JAPAN -

Bloody sad news indeed. A great loss to the music world and to the fighters for the disabled also.
Our thoughts and best wishes to his wife and children.
Col & Hel <muirrich@space.net.au>
Perth, Australia -

There ain't half been some clever bastards, and Ian, you were well up on that list mate!
I remember thinking who is this geezer who only plays "rockies and rollies" when I first saw the Kilburns supporting the Who at the Strand. Since then I've had some great nights out with the Blockheads - thanks.
Love ya heaps - miss you so much
Steve Ward <wardraw@fastlink.com.au>
Avoca Beach (formerly Aylesbury Bucks), Australia -

To a true musician who held his head high until the end. You won't be forgotten.
tony burt <tonyburt@lunastate.com>
London, UK -

Only very few will be remembered by many.
mh <amsterdamwing@hotmail.com>
A, nl -

A musician of great wit, you will be sorely missed,Ian. Wherever you are keep on with the sex and drugs and rock'n'roll
Antrojak
North Wales, UK -

We was well partial to your abraacadabra mate, rest in peace.
Cardiff Massive
Caerdydd, Cymru -

Saw him with Paul Weller August 1998, boiling hot day,
had a great row with my bird and sung my head off to IAN
in the afternoon. Top day top memories,
RESPECT to Ian R.I.P.
Daffy <lee_davensac@ml.com>
London, UK -

His songs and personal philosophy were/are always amongst my reasons to be cheerful. I'll miss the old bugger.
Russ Daubney
Whitby, N. Yorks. UK -

One of the last of the few who hadn't sold out on their principles, what a waste.
Mike Fawson <mike.fawson@dolphinuk.co.uk>
Malvern, UK -

He was the geezer ...
His music filled my life and I *loved* it ...
His courage in adversity was a lesson to us all ...
R.I.P.
Bastard Bear <bbear@cwcom.net>
UK -

Ian Dury will be remembered as one of the brightest lights of the Seventies rock scene with the multi talented Blockheads.His songs have given me much pleasure and never lose their appeal,England mourns a songwriting legend......
Nicholas hall
Farnham Surrey, UK -

THE SONG "WAKE UP..." CHANGED MY LIVE WHEN I WAS A TEENAGER.
DURING LAST 20 YEARS I�VE SEEN YOU PLAYING LIVE SEVERAL TIMES AND IN "APPLES" IN LONDON AND WE HAVE TAKEN PHOTOS TOGETHER. I WILL REALLY MISS YOU.
XAVIER VILASECA <josepxavier@jazzfree.com>
BARCELONA, CATALUNYA -

Unbelievable hes really gone.
i first saw ian dury in 1979 as a 14 year old at the appolo in manchester and it was m6y first ever gig.
it was fuckin brilliant especially the plastic fried egg.
you are the best ian take care mate and show jesus and all the prophets how to really boogie.
bye for now

mikey t
Michael Damian Taylor <tdsux@hotmail.com>
Glossop, UK -

Reasons to be Cheerful: You made my teenage years exciting; you broadened my horizons; and you left me with wonderful memories. Can't believe you've gone and left us but hope you're having fun wherever you are old mucker.
Gail Lee <Floria_tosca@hotmail.com>
Cambridge, UK -

"In the deserts of Sudan
and the gardens of Japan
From Milan to Yukatan
Every woman's, Every man"

We'll all miss you
Rock In Peace mate, you have earned it.

Dr. Alan T Gower <ad82@dial.pipex.com>
Stevenage, UK -

One of the best gigs we went to last year was to see Ian & The Blockheads at Warwick Arts Centre just before Xmas 1999, it was the present we gave each other that year. Ian you will be missed but forever remembered through your music, your fans and your family. Be at peace. Loads of love - 2 very saddened blockheads.
June & Andy Meagher <tax@dre.co.uk>
Shropshire, UK -

He was the catalyst that sparked the revolution,
He was an inmate in a long-term insitution,
And he chose to play the fool in a six-piece band,
First night nerves every one-night stand
We were all glad that he should be so kind
What a waste? What a waste? He didn't mind.
Thanks Ian.

Alex Kaupa <Alex_Kaupa@sonymusic.com>
London, UK -

The sky is bright blue, and the sun bright
Heaven has a new friend tonight.
Paul Marx <spiral01@intrepid.net>
Frederick, US -

He gave so much to so many. Ian, wherever you are, hit them with your unique rhythm stick. Gone, but never forgotten. RIP, Uncle Ian.
Simesy <simesy.wimesy@currantbun.com>
Leamington Spa, UK -

I nearly started crying in the newsagents today when I saw the front of the newspaper....I know he'll make heaven more cheerful.
God bless, Ian
Doggy <megamink@hotmail.com>
Ballymena, UK -

Bonne Chance, Viel Gluck, Good Luck
Simon <simonhall@bigfoot.com>
Manchester, England -

Loved your song Sex & Drugs & Rock & Roll the most. I will never stop playing it!!
Boris de Beer <borisdebeer@hotmail.com>
Utrecht, Netherlands -

Hit Me With Your Rhythm Stick was the only song I would go to sleep to as a kid. I saw you play it live last year - and love Drip Fed Fred with Madness. I hope you are at peace dear Ian.
Lucy Smyth <ladybug_productions@yahoo.co.uk>
Belfast, UK -

Wow. Gonna miss you
Bernard Hall-Falconer <bernard@siteloft.com>
Oslo, Norway -

From a multitude of Donegal people who grew up with Ian Dury. With respect and love
John Cutliffe <johnc@online.ie>
Buncrana, Ireland -

Saw you at the Palladium gig and have been a fan since the days of Kilburn and the High Roads. You were great, definitely a 'Reason to be Cheerful'.
Wish you could have gone on for another five years and many more.
Len <lsimmons@hertreg.ac.uk>
Broxbourne, UK -

The first record I ever bought was Hit Me With Your Rhythm Stick. I paid �1.10 for it in Woolies. I can't remember the first of anything else I ever did in life (except of course the obvious). He has and always will be a great inspiration to me. He's naughty but always nice...
Alexandra Mitchison <alexandra_mitchison@seagram.com>
London, UK -

I posted this all over the web last night, so why not here?

Should I Mourn Your Decline Ian Dury

Is that you rattling the pipes at night?

Oi, you,
skinny white sailor,
walking with a rhythm stick.
Bet you�re the only one in town where you�re going.

Move your black hole on up
to the man in the white void
and see how he likes one
puffing and blowing in his ear�ole.

I�ll miss your sad Essex rabbit
and the songs of how�s your father
I called my own.

Thank you,
we�re doing very well.

PSR

Peter Stewart Richards <prichard@chello.no>
Oslo, Norway -

A reason to be tearfull
Mark Strijbos <mmello@knoware.nl>
Nieuwegein, the Netherlands -

You see glimses, that odd clever little ditty, the power in us all to change how we see the world. IAN, YOU HAD IT MAN
GERARD PHILLIPS <GPHILLIPS@A-ZNET.COM>
Then IRELAND, Now NEW YORK. -

Ian,

A truly great man and a wonderfully gifted lyrcist/poet-a diamond geezer and angel. You kept me sane back in '78/79 and have been an inspiration ever since. God bless Harold Hill of Harold Hill and whoever was watching Frankie Vaughan and giving herself a scratch.
Nick R <nrogers@russell.com>
Suffolk, UK -

I saw Ian in Dublin twice in recent years..... I was definitley hit with a rythm stick......

Thankyou.... you were a great man

I hope your peaceful...
graham kennedy <gpjk@indigo.ie>
dublin, ireland -

i grew up your music Ian - you did indeed "hit me" when i was a kid.

Cheers and thanks for the music.

Craig
Newcastle, UK -

Never met him but feel like i knew him and sure do miss him.
Graham Lee <glee@wminc.com.au>
Melbourne, Australia -

Thank for sharing the the music & wisdom-deepest condolences to family and friends,God's peace.
kristjan kristjansson
reykjavik, iceland -

Thank for sharing the the music & wisdom-deepest condolences to family and friends,God's peace.
kristjan kristjansson <kkson@centrum.is>
reykjavik, iceland -

Cheer's.............. I'm gob smacked............. :-) you'll live 4ever in our hearts and minds THANX! :-)
Sonny <sonny@theloonybin.co.uk>
London, UK -

GOT NO REASONS TO BE CHEERFUL TODAY GOD BLESS
Dave Crockett
UK -

Well maybe just maybe he will become as larger person in his death as alive, keep that light burning bright and not out. He lives in my memory as a person who tickled and made you laugh. I just hope that there will be life after death and he can join the greats in that band up there.
Gregory Codling <codgre20@stamford.ac.uk>
Stamford, UK -

I saw Ian in the States on the Stiff Records tour about 20
years ago and was instantly hooked. Had planned a trip to UK
to see him perform in the next couple of months. Now I'll
have to make do with the recordings and memories. But
what memories! RIP my friend!
Chris Hull <westport@bigfoot.com>
San Diego, California, USA -

Although expected this was shattering news.........but what an incredible, inspirational human being.....

So long mate......

Martin <nomoreheroes@excite.co.uk>
Aldershot, UK -

I saw Ian & the Blockheads at a Christmas show in London in 1982 a while before coming back to Australia - I was still smiling when I got back here. The world is a less cheerful place without you. Rest in peace
STEVE HUNTER <stevehunter@a2.com.au>
MELBOURNE, Australia -

I miss you so.Hope that you play sessions with
C.Charles and more funky staffs in heaven. Bye.
T.Horiike <horiike@ibm.net>
-

Could have been the ticket man at Fulham Broadway Station.
Ended up being the inspiration man at NW3. What a surprise.
What a waste.
Dominic <pipps@honk.co.uk>
London, UK -

Don't cry, act. Don't feel sorrow, feel strong. Don't wait for the others, do it yourself.
filinto melo
porto, portugal -

A great inspiration- will be greatly missed.
Alex
USA -

Thanks for the fun that you brought me and my mates.
Rest well.
Andy Tunley <andy@glo.co.uk>
Reading, UK -

Thanks for adding something special to my life - a true poet of your time with a sincere honesty and charm.
You may have limped through life but you'll always be walking tall in my memories.
Cheers.
Nick <nwobbles@bigpond.com>
Newcastle, Australia -

You gave me such pleasure, both on record & in concert.
Thankyou for sharing your gift with so many, including of course, all your charity work.
My thoughts are with your family, may all our good wishes help strengthen them at this difficult time.
Euan Blundell <euan.blundell@bt.com>
Crowborough, UK -

Thanks for the brightness you added to our hearts. Our hearts are heavy today. Luckily, we can keep you with us forever with your recordings. Sleep well.
Suzanne <shickey@erols.com>
Kensington, MD, USA -

We went to see you in Cambridge, was it last year? You were wonderful. I saw you first at the Christmas Bop at St Martin's Art School as the The Kilburns in 1975, you were wonderful then.Bless you and RIP
Alison <alisonmoffatt@beeb.net>
Suffolk, UK -

Fanx for everything OY!OY!
Dave W <djjscc@worldnet.att.net>
USA -

From the mouth that carried the sly grin of a mischievous child came words to live by. You are not alone Ian, for we are with you, as you are with us. As i watch the moon rise ahead of me, I know the sun is going down behind me, our son is going down.
Tony Ware <Matemx@msn.com>
Dallas,Tx, US -

I always loved "Reasons To Be Cheerful" and the more I learn about Ian Dury's life and times the more that song will live in my memory. I'm saddened by his passing, but I am impressed by all that Dury did in his life: as an artist, an entertainer, an activist and as a decent man. We should all live so full a life.
Glenn Easton <easton67@wave.home.com>
Ottawa, Canada -

I remember insisting my friend should buy me 'What a waste' for my 11th birthday and how all my friends thought I was wierd ... it was just that the lyrics were so cool !!! You'll be sadly missed Ian
From one Essex bod to another
Rest in peace
Sue Fuller
Brentwood, Essex, UK -

To Charlie...
Please know that your old man was the source of so much inspiration to so many of us - and his strength and dignity through the many troubles in his life stand as a shining example of how the human spirit can soar, when we only concentrate on the many reasons to be cheerful.
Musically, Ian was a pioneer, a legend in so many ways and the possessor of one of rock's finest voices. His wit shone through everything he ever did, injecting the whole music world with humour, and fun.
Ian's passing is so terribly sad, but I'm thankful for the rare gifts he's left behind - and I know he'll be striding through the Pearly gates with a cackle, a wink and a large grin on his boat race.
Bless you Ian. And thankyou for sharing your goodness with us all.
Michael Roberts <graphic_artist@hotmail.com>
Sydney, Australia -

FANX IAN,
YOU MADE A DIFFERENCE.
CAN WE HAVE A MUSICAL TRIBUTE FROM THE REMAINING BLOCKHEADS.
TA TA MATE.
SIMON <SUPERFLYSI@HOTMAIL.COM>
LYTHAM, UK -

Ian - thanks for the wonderful music and memories which will have live with me for the rest of my life, particularly seeing you again in Cambridge in December. Love and Strength to your family at this very sad time.
Nick Elliott <nick_e@mpt-ltd.com>
Bedford, UK -

Said to myself I'd meet you one day.
Never quite got round to it.
That was always going to be special for me.
Maybe you,ve taught me a very good lesson(bit extreme though)!
I hope your family can still remember the good times.
Guy
UK -

We will miss you lovely man, but will never forget you.The world will be a worse place without you.

ALAN WAYMENT <alanandchris@rockinn59.freeserve.co.uk>
Derby, UK -

Fucking Arseholes! What a waste. C Ya, Big Man!
Mike Dudley <michael.dudley@shlgroup.com>
UK -

Ian will always be one of my most pleasant memories of the 80s. I'm listening to Sweet Gene Vincent right now and I'm right back there.
Rest in peace, Ian.
We'll never forget you.
Colin Ashdown <colin@ashdown1.demon.co.uk>
Peterborough, UK -

No reasons to be cheerful now.....R.I.P
Ron Angel <ronangel@cableinet.co.uk>
London, UK -

En 1980 plena �poca de gobierno militar, en el que se prohib�a la difusi�n de m�sica cantada en ingl�s, algunos dj's, en fiestas privadas, pasaban canciones "prohibidas", entre ellas se col� un simple que tra�a, de un lado "Wake Up", del otro "Sex and Drugs and Rock'n'Roll"...
mucho me impact� y, un par de a�os despu�s, al tomar una oferta de 2 discos por $1.-, compr� New Boots and Panties que, hoy, Junto a Do it Yourself, Laughter... casi 20 a�os y 500 otros discos despu�s, contin�an siendo de los puntos m�s altos de mi discoteca.
Devoci�n especial y un mensaje de paz para todos aquellos que, como yo, a trav�s de la distancia, el tiempo, y el mero conocimiento que provee la obra, reconocen en Ian Dury a un gran m�sico, un gran humorista, y una persona buena...
Quiz� me enga�e, quiz� no, pero LARGA VIDA A IAN Y A TODOS LOS BLOCKHEADS QUE PISAMOS ESTE MUNDO.
Germ�n Rozo <grozo@dgolpe.com>
Buenos Aires, Argentina -

As all true artists, you have left masterpieces
behind and will be immortalized. Not many have
achieved that. Rest In Peace!
Scott kreger <kreger@netzero.net>
Germantown,MD, USA -

I'll never forget seein' Ian and his Blockheads in Amster-
dam. It seems so long ago now. It must have been around
1980, 1981 or so. Thanx Ian for your great sense of humor
and your music.
Kees Smit
UK -

l was hit with his rhythm stick.Ian taught me real funky music, transcending language or county differences.
Thank you, lan. R.I.P.
Kenji Tanahashi <fwgg2711@mb.infoweb.ne.jp>
Tokyo, Japan -

Grazie Ian e buon viaggio....da un tuo fan italiano.
Andrea
Venezia-Mestre, ITALIA -

I SAW IAN DRURY AND THE BLOCKHEADS AT THE HAMMERSMITH
PALAIS,WHAT A TALENT, WHAT A GUY, WHO WILL BE SORELY MISSED.
REST IN PEACE MATE THE WORLD IS A POORER PLACE WITHOUT YOU
GERARD CRONEEN
UK -

From here to eternity....
Jorge A <jorge-o-alves@telecom.pt>
Vila Real, P -

I played some Ian Dury to my daughter yesterday and she danced to 'Hit me with Your Rhythmn Stick'.

You'll be greatly missed.
Colin Hynson
Norwich, UK -

Driving four up to Roadmenders in Northampton to see this diamond geezer play an ace show.Playing Mr.Love Pants for the first time.First Curtis and now this,celebrate the life and the reasons to be cheerful. Condolencies to all he touched.
Colin Stobart <colin_stobart@hotmail.com>
Cardiff, UK -

There Aint Half Been Some Clever Bastards.....
but there's one less now. Sad goodbye to one of the greatest artists I can think of, a true renaissance geezer, and all round nice bloke.
Iain <iain@eks-consultancy.co.uk>
Kelty, UK -

what a waste-wonderful memories of listening to what i shouldn't oughta at 14! keep gigging up there, we will miss you but remember you with cheer
sarah
bristol, UK -

Thanks for the BIG inspiration and influence in my life. Your spirit will live in my music. :)
BB

Dr_bellows aka Bruce Bear <dr_bellowsAThotmail>
Freo, Australia -

Ian Dury - he was very good indeed.RIP
Dominic Moloney <D.Moloney@ndsuk.co>
London, UK -

Il'l never forget the hazey summer of 79, the excitement I
felt when a Blockheads track appeared on radio 1 or anything
to do with Ian was on the telly. I was 10 years old and a
strange little man with a limp and of my own fathers
vintage, became wholey responsible for my discovery of and my
subsequent obsession with rock and roll. My old man took me
to my first concert in june of that year, the Blockheads at
the Colston Hall, Bristol. That night my future career became
obvious. My musical aspirations never amounted to greatness,
however I enjoyed many years of incredible pleasure as a
live performer. During that time, I don't think that a day went by that I
didn't think of that now dream like evening over 20 years
ago. I now live in Sydney and as a sucessful audio director
in the TV industry I work with many acts, I always dreamed
that my roster would see me operating for Ian one day, sadly
it never will. I'm expecting my own child in 8 weeks time,
Il'l never have the pleasure of taking him or her to a sweaty,
smoke filled Colston Hall, but they will certainly know who
you were by the legacy of your music. Youv'e made me laugh,
youve made me cry and youv'e partly made me who I am today
all of those "arseholes, bastards, fucking cunts and pricks"
can't get to you any more Ian, "go to sleep now, please do
not disturb" All the best mate, from one of your many admiring
sons.
Scott Watkins-Sully <wtelly@ar.com.au>
Sydney , Australia -

We met a few times years ago and I wrote to you last year saying I wanted my daughter to see you at a Gig. Well, I thank you - we were at the UEA Norwich, 4th February 2000. A true entertainer, real spirit, the best performer ever. A wonderful bloke and you will live on in our hearts forever. Thank You. Caz & Holli xx
Caz & Holli <caz@spencer-boulton.freeserve.co.uk>
Dereham, UK -

Thank you, Ian, for 'The smile on a parrot', and all the other reasons. Top man,(and 'there ain't half been some clever bastards', too!)You're greatly missed, & the world a little less bright now you've left us.

Bonita Morris <gnomentrol@dial.pipex.com>
Oxford, UK -

Thanks for your music Ian, thanks for letting it be part of my life. It was great to know you. You have been an inspiration for me and for many of my generation. Rest in peace.
Thijs van Dorssen <vandorssen@arlett.de>
Cologne, Germany -

I saw you last year in Dublin, you played every tune I ever wanted to hear and belted out, literally, the best set I have ever heard bar none. Thanks for the Boots and Panties. Missing you already

B
Brian Conheady <brian.conheady@carrier1.com>
London/Dublin, UK Ireland -

A very sad day, he was an inspiration to us all.
Danny <od910@gre.ac.uk>
London, UK -

The keyword is remember. Keep the angels rocking and rest in peace

Dag <dag@eriksen.nu>
Halden, Norway -

This giant will be among us for a long time
thru his great records.
He will not be forgotten !!
Morten
Norway -

WHAT A WASTE
Ian Dury, an example to us all.
R.I.P.
Peter Hoare <peter.hoare@tinyonline.co.uk>
Hythe, Kent, UK -

Thanks for some great nights, especially the one at Pompey Guildhall when the stage caught fire and the fire brigade had to shove through the mosh pit to put it out! The band carried on playing and never missed a beat - superb!
Ian <icharlton@comm-coll-hackney.ac.uk>
London, UK -

Ian, ' I mourn your decline with some Thunderbird wine, and a black handkerchief.' Fantastic at Finsbury Park with Madness, Great at the Palladium on Feb 6. Rest in Peace.
Lee Wright
Chigwell, Essex, UK -

When music was finding its feet again and cringe hung onto the shirt tail of quality,Ian stepped up and gave us the real deal straight,hard and soulful. God rest you little fella.
Walter Stark <stark@planet.net.au>
Melbourne , Australia -

I sawIan once while I was still at school playing at the Ilford Odeon, I think the floor in the stalls collapsed that night due to all the jumping about, I bought one of the t-shirts that I still have, it was a choice of a BLOCKHEADS or a SEX AND DRUGS t-shirt, I bought the latter and always wanted a Blockhead one. Needless to say it was a brilliant gig and changed my life. I was listening to London Live all last night when 'you're my baby' came on, I had a little sob and my 15 month old baby came into the room and we had a little cuddle, thanks Ian for all the good times I've had listening to your records. PS Whats the deal with the last single with madness, a two CD release �3.99 each? Can't those wankers ever get things right? Cheers mate!
Jason, Helen and Boo <jasncollns@aol.com>
London, UK -

Shine on, Ian , somewhere, somewhen.
Geoffrey Maloney <gmdb@interact.net.au>
Canberra , Australia -

"Hit me" was the first record I bought as a kid, and one that I still turn up and sing along to whenever it is on the radio. Thankyou for adding wit and character to British music.
Haydn Lightfoot <Haydn_Lightfoot@hotmail.com>
UK -

'Shall I mourn your decline with some Thunderbird wine and a black handkerchief..?' Gutted. But thankful for being aware of the man and his great music for years. Strength to his family at this time.
Chris Friday
UK -

So sorry to hear the sad news, so many brilliant memories left though of you and the blockheads - you added to all our lives in your concerts and music...
Carol and Laurence <Cassann24@aol.com>
UK -

Sweet Gene Vincent eh? If there is any justice in this world, a poet in years to come time will be writing about 'Sweet Ian Dury'. We followed you for many a year, in many a seedy joint, right up to the Palladium just a few short weeks ago. What a fitting stage for the Blockheads to bow out on. Rock on Ian wherever you may be, and condolences to family, friends, and all the other Blockheads. Charlie and Louise.
Charlie Farley <charliefarls@yahoo.co.uk>
Bethnal Green, UK -

'Shall I mourn your decline with some Thunderbird wine And a black handkerchief..?' Gutted. But thankful for being aware of the man and his great music for many years. He certainly won't be forgotten. Strength to his family at this time.
Chris Friday
UK -

I never met him but he came across as a real nice bloke, and his songs always cheered me up. I hope he is happy wherever he is.
Davy <davedog39@hotmail>
Channel Islands, UK -

This is just too sad. Only the great die young and Ian was one of the greatest.
Julie-Anne
London, UK -

' I mourn your decline with some Thunderbird wine, and a black handkerchief.' You were fantastic at Finsbury Park with Madness and you were great at the Palladium in Feb. Rest in peace.
LEE WRIGHT <lee-wright@newton.co.uk>
Chigwell, UK -

"The mind is a very special flower", Ians was far from stranded amongst the weeds. I remember a TV interview when he said he wanted to write a beautiful ballad but was never quite able to gwt one right. Ian, if you only knew the beauty was already there within, and shone in your song, whatever you sang. I can still hear you now, your not gone, just resting for the big gig to come. God bless, and thanks.
Chris Smith <thickchips@yahoo.com>
ipswich, UK -

My husband & I first encountered Ian on a sight & sound concert on BBC TV just after we had become parents for the first time. We were amazed by the energy, sense of humour & sheer enjoyment of the whole thing. We have continued to be fans of Ian's ever since. His death is a very sad loss to all who knew or knew of him. Thanks Ian for the music, intelligence, sense of humour & forbearance. You did not have an easy gig but I never heard you complain.
Jenny Harris <jenny.harris@plus-two.com>
Slough, UK -

Proud of you geez
steve
once of Essex, Australia -

So sorry to hear the sad news, i still have big album in A1 Condition, Ian will live on.
Scott Murray <smccinc@att.net.>
Palm beach, U.S.A. -

"In the dark..of Tiger Bay" he once sang to us "in the gardens of Sophia". The rest of Cardiff will miss him too. Ian Dury - he "caught and sang the sun in flight".
Nick Newman <newmannick@hotmail.com>
Cardiff, UK -

i have'nt been a fan of your music for very long but when i heard of your death last night i just had to pay tribute to your talent and also i wanted to say thanks for the brilliant songs that kept my sprits up when times got hard . may the sod rest lightly on your head . r.i.p
linda <lindasouthern98@hotmail.com>
dublin , ireland -

A diamond geezer , thanks for what you gave us.....catherine
Catherine <Catherine.Unwin@Kcl.ac.uk>
UK -

I'll miss you - that's not all i want to say.
Philip Jones <phil.jones@dorma-uk.co.uk>
Ashbourne, UK -

I was very sad to hear the news. It's my 20th wedding anniversary tomorrow and Hit Me is "our song"! You will be greatly missed Ian.
Christine Hill <c.hill@wellcome.ac.uk>
London, UK -

Hit me was the first record I ever owned at around 5yrs old. I have felt a strange link to Mr Dury ever since and am so sad that I didn't get the chance to meet him. Condolences to his wife and the children he left behind. We'll always remember you Ian,(clever bastard).
verity <veritykitchener@hotmail.com>
Kent, UK -

Good Music, Good times, Good bloke. Thanks
Adam Smith <Adam.Smith@cablelondon.co.uk>
London, UK -

I discovered Ian Dury 10 years ago. He was, and still is, my hero. Wonderful performer, poet, actor and a great influence to me. He had the right attitude to life. If there were more people like him the world would be a happier place. Cheers Ian, even though I never met you, you have given me many reasons to be cheerful.
Helen Stroud <helen@nildram.net>
Bucks, UK -

I will always regret never having the opportunity to shake Ian Dury's hand and thank him for being so wonderful. Thanks especially for Mr Lovepants. Play it loud tonight and dance.
Alison <Alison.Armstrong-Lee@granadamedia.com>
Manchester, UK -

Thanks for the music. This world will miss you...
Martin van EImeren <martinv@iadb.org>
Paramaribo, Suriname -

I taped new boots and panties from my Vinyl LP and still play it in the car and at work. Wake up and make love to me and My old man are both brilliant lyrics encapsulating much of my own experince of life. I have always enjoyed any TV interviews or programmes by or about Ian. I will miss him. My sympathy to all who were close to him
Geoff Cooper <gec@dircon.co.uk>
London, UK -

Dear Ian, You always hit me with your rythm stick. Your inspirational music always had a place in my life. What a waste! Thank you
Ingo Frommer <frommeri@hotmail.com>
Mainz, Germany -

Thanks for your inspiration, most recently the performance at Warwick Arts Centre in December 1999.
Barry Machin
Birmingham, UK -

Thank you Ian, you gave me some of the best nights of my life and I didn't even know you. I'm just a fan but you've been a constant inspiration through your music, your humour and your life view. You're a beautiful soul.
Sean Cook <sean@yinyang27.freeserve.co.uk>
London, UK -

For more than 20 years You have given me reasons to be cheerful, RIP
H�kon
Norway -

Rest in peace Ian.Thanks for all the good memories and for making us smile.You were an example to us all and all of us Blockheads will never forget you.I can here you now teaching Gene Vincent the words to Sex and Drugs and Rock and Roll.God Bless.
ADRIAN
FLITWICK, UK -

Not a waste ! - An inspiration to all of us not to grumble,but to look positively at our opportunities. Earth's loss is Heaven's gain.Look after him God ,you'll find him to be a brilliant addition to your band !!
Tom Crawford <tcrawford@harveynash.com>
London, UK -

I heard about ian dury for the first time yesterday, when he died. I think, this can't be a chance.
David Holfelder <davidh1983@gmx.de>
Wuppertal, Germany -

Ian, for all the fond memories of growning up in the late seventies, with the Blockheads LOUD on the radio, thank you. May peace be yours.
Robert Leather <rleather@worsley.force9.co.uk>
Manchester, UK -

Ian's artistic output gave me great personal pleasure during his life. For very selfish reasons I will miss him my reasons to be chearful have just been reduced by one. I never met the bloke but I share the loss.
Alan Bishop <alanbish@hotmail.com>
UK -

my childhood was cheerful ( every part ) and you were part of it my friend. i will pass on your music to my children so they can appreciate the positives in our world that you opened my eyes to. Your memory pales our devistation at your passing. thankyou Ian regards richard
richard wyatt <tricky35@eisa.net.au>
bonnells bay, australia -

I saw him last month and he looked incredibly ill...but his strength was inspirational. For a man who could hardly stand, who had to be helped onto stage to then perform for a hour and a half with more emotion and enthusiasm than a man half his age was truly amazing to see...Ian Dury & The Blockheads at the UEA, February 2000, perhaps one of the best gigs I've ever seen...I certainly won't forget it...I'm just glad I got to see an absolute diamond geezer before it was to late...
Lee Bryer <bryerrabbit@hotmail.com>
Norwich, UK -

Sad he's gone, but so glad for what Ian did.Hit Me With Your Rythmn Stick keeps running through my mind today, a warm glow jiving me back to my teens in Sydney in the 80s.
Garfield Reynolds <garfield@imedia.ru>
Moscow, Russia -

Rock on,Ian! See you in rock`n`roll heaven....
Stein
Norway -

We'll miss you Ian , you gave us plenty of reasons to be cheerful,RIP.
Ole T. <baztard@baztard.com>
Bergen, Norway -

Ian was a wonderfully talented diamond geezer in many fields, poetry, art, acting &, of course, music. The Punk Poet Laureate, he championed disabled rights before such a cause was fashionable and he gave pleasure to millions. Reasons to be cheerful? Lots of musical memories - all of them splendid! I'll have some of that!!
Craig Turton <cturton/lro/doh/GB@doh>
London, UK -

We'll miss you Ian! You'll not soon be forgotten.
Erik Owens <erik@qualcomm.com>
San Diego, US -

I'll always smile when I think of Ian, a Diamond Geezer. Thanks for the memories.
Steven Ward <srward1@yahoo.co.uk>
Sheffield, UK -

Rest in Peace Ian. My thoughts are with your family, in particular your two young sons. Richard
Richard Burton <r.burton@unl.ac.uk>
UK -

One less reason to be cheerful, at least for a minute or two of appropriate silence prior to an outlandish burst of celebration via a wake. Ian's off to the Summerland, he is. I'm just glad to have experienced his music over the years. Much of it has a constant place in my heart and life. For right now, though, I think I'll have a bit of a wander in the dark while rendering, a capella, a couple of rounds of "There Ain't Half Been Some Clever Bastards." One of 'em, after all, just took the early bus.
David Alexander McDonald <stree@azstarnet.com>
Tucson, USA -

Speechless; first Curtis Mayfield and now Ian Dury.
Mathias L.
Sweden -

Saddened to hear this news. New Boots & Panties was one of the first records I ever bought at age 10. Ian was a great charachter with a hugely positive outlook on life and will be sadly missed
Leo <thirdeye11@hotmail.com>
Dublin, Ireland -

From an old fan My sympathy
David Brew
UK -

I was shocked to hear the news this morning (27.03.2000), He was not a "world star", but for me one of the greatest influences in modern day rock n roll, his acting wasn't bad either!.His songs will ring in my head for ever and a day.goodbye Ian,live on wherever you are
Terry Fox <fox.t@zdf.msnbc.de>
Germany -

Really saddened by last nights news of Ian's passing. Regards, Alan O'Leary
Alan O'Leary
UK -

I was very sorry to hear about Ian Dury. About ten percent of those who said that they saw Klburn and the High Roads actually did, but I was one of them - at the Acorn in Birmingham in 1973. Five (or maybe six) scruffy chaps who looked as if they had just walked in off a local building site had not two of them been obviously disabled (Ian Dury and the drummer who had a broken leg and was in a cast). They were magnificent and Ian Dury remained so for the following twenty seven years. A brilliant character and a great talent. How sad. Best wishes Tim Martin
Tim Martin
UK -

We'll always remember the concert at Coventry last December. Not a waste. A giant.
Neil & Alison Crossley
UK -

Back to Ian Dury's Home Page

Ian Dury, 12th May 1942 - 27th March 2000

Ian Dury,
12th May 1942 - 27th March 2000