So long, dear Kate

It was with great sadness that I read of the untimely passing of Kate McGarrigle last week, aged just 63.

When I was living in Toronto in the mid-70's, Kate and Anna McGarrigle burst on the folk scene with their tender, timeless harmonies, fiddles, accordions and bittersweet lyrics. I was smitten. It was love at first note. I never know what to say when people ask my favourite music, except that the McGarrigles have always, always been on my desert island list.

The sisters never courted stardom. Despite their first album being named Melody Maker's album of the year 1975, they eventually pissed off their record company because they preferred to stay home with their kids rather than go on promotional tours. There was once an 8 year gap between albums. In recent years, a new generation came to know Kate as the mother of Rufus and Martha Wainwright, but the McGarrigles have always had a loyal fan base. And from all over the place, because Henny knew and loved their music in the Netherlands.

I know this is off-topic, but in case they passed you by here's a little video: Petite announce amoureuse. At least it's in French. Thanks for everything Kate.