Marking the passing of Alan Rigg

Alan Rigg shared his musical gift throughout Paradise and Butte County, playing for the last several years in assorted venues, including Party in the Park with a cohort of talent sharing “a gumbo of Jazz, Blues, New Orleans, R&B, R&R, Zydeco and MORE!”

The bare bones of his life, lifted from his Facebook page, and in his own words are as follows:

“Began piano at age 6, guitar at 12. Started playing in bands a year later about 1965. Played jazz and blues during the 70’s. Later played oldies (50’s & 60’s music) appeared with Chuck Berry, Drifters, Coasters, Sam Moore, Little Anthony, Marvelettes, Herman’s Hermits and many more. 1995 moved to New Orleans where I performed at most of the major clubs like Tipitina’s, House of Blues, The Maple Leaf, and more. Now living in N. CA in the mountains.”

Alan moved to Paradise from New Orleans in 2005, after losing his home, and more, to Hurricane Katrina. Alan also lost his Paradise home to the Camp Fire.

Alan was a Sunday fixture at the Paradise Center for Spiritual Living, accompanying services for several years. He was also often found playing for guests at Spencer Shirey Winery. Post Camp Fire, he performed at the Chico Center for Spiritual Living and at the Paradise Lutheran Church where he will be honored with a special service.

No local Mardi Gras celebration was complete without the Alan Rigg Band. Just seven days before his passing, Alan played for the Chico Elks Mardi Gras Party.

We will miss Alan’s talent, kindness, humor, and the unforgettable instrument that was his speaking voice.

Judy Clemens, Executive Director of Theatre on the Ridge, shares this remembrance:

Alan was also an enthusiastic appreciator and sup - porter of fellow artists in our community. He never missed a performance, at Theatre on the Ridge, as a much loved season ticket holder and cheerleader. He delighted in chatting with the actors after the show and was always generous with praise and applause. I will miss that big smiling man coming through the door and giving me one of his bear hugs. Our matinees will be missing his light and laughter, and I will forever miss his friendship and his love for what we do here at TOTR.

Our friend Melissa Schuster marked his passing:

February 25, was a life-affirming day. As many of you already know, our dear friend, Alan Rigg, made his transition. The passing of a dear friend leaves a hole in our hearts, but Alan made his own choices, and his choices were lovingly honored by all of those around him.

From his doctor and nurses, to his friends - everyone. At one point, I counted over a dozen people in the tiny ICU room. There was a rousing rendition of “Stand by Me” that some couldn’t help dancing to, even while attending to Alan.

Alan orchestrated it all - he was 100% in charge. I am sure his band mates have seen this side of him, but, after all his life challenges that he had no control over, including natural disasters and wildfires, it was wonderful to see him taking charge of his own transition.

And finally, Alan in his own words:

“How many people you know can say they were fired by Cab Calloway? I’m guessing ONE! Back in the 70’s I was sent to play bass on a gig. Of course, I couldn’t cut the charts! Cab took me to the bar, bought me a drink and fired my ass! Definitely a highlight of my career.

Farewell, Alan, and thank you for sharing your immense talent with us.

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