April-May 2017 Issue of Inside New Orleans

The band’s obligations found John back on the road. He shared the story of a gig at the Empire in Liverpool, where he met at the stage door exit a young fan named Paul. The teenager was enthralled with the Crew-Cuts, asking many questions about their chosen profession, oblivious that his eager inquiries had extended far past the 10 p.m. cutoff time for bus transportation. So, the ever-gracious John offered to walk the young man home, continuing the conversation along the way. Years later, John learned that the story of that encounter had been published, and he was stunned to discover the identity of that young man—it was none other than Sir Paul McCartney, one of the most iconic musicians of all times.

While the touring continued, John would fly to New Orleans for a visit whenever possible, but such opportunities were short and sweet.

In the meantime, the couple spent many evenings on the telephone, and their relationship continued to blossom. “And then there were the letters,” says a swooning Gilda. “He wrote such beautiful letters.” About a year later the two married. The following year, they welcomed their first son, Michael, though John was on the road at the time, regretfully missing the birth. Shortly afterwards,>>