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Chris Gaffney 1950- 2008
Chris Gaffney and the Hacienda Brothers with songwriting legend Dan “Do Right Woman” Penn
Norteno-flavored roots rocker Chris Gaffney of the Arizona-based Hacienda Brothers succumbed to liver cancer Thursday, friends say. According to an obit on the Continental Club’s online newsletter, “Gaff” suffered a fall at home Wednesday night and died in his sleep after being admitted to Orange County Hospital.
A benefit for the singer/guitarist/accordionist is still on for May 25 at the Oaks, near Manor. “Rosie Flores called from L.A. and told me the sad news,” says Oaks booker and close Gaffney friend Steve Dean, whose venue hosted several Hacienda Brothers shows. Appearing at the benefit, whose proceeds will now go to funeral expenses, will be Dave Insley, Ted Roddy, the Iguanas, Two Hoots and a Holler and more. Call 278-8788 for more info.
Gaffney, who also played accordion and guitar in Dave Alvin’s band, recorded 2003’s “Loser’s Paradise” with an all-star Austin band and always maintained an affinity for the music made in this town. No word yet on funeral arrangements.
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By Kimberly
April 17, 2008 8:25 PM | Link to this
Hi,
I am trying make sure this is true.
Please let me know more.
Thank you,
Kimberly
By Kristi Smart
April 18, 2008 12:42 AM | Link to this
Its been a sad sad day. I just loved that mans music, his voice and his wacky sensibility’s. My heart goes out to his wife and family. What a loss.
By David Hopkins
April 18, 2008 12:56 AM | Link to this
Gaf was perhaps the most versatile singer around. He could do everything from old rock to blues to Motown to Norteno. His gigs with the Cold Hard Facts at the Swallows Inn were even more notorious than his fabulous stints with his best friend Dave Alvin. The Hacienda Brothers in February without him when he first fell ill were just not the same. All Guilty Men should lift a glass tonight, or several this weekend, to the best bar band singer ever. I know I will lift several.
David Hopkins
By Elizabeth
April 18, 2008 10:40 AM | Link to this
Gaffney was an incredible guy; it always made me feel blessed just to be able to hear his incredible voice - I’ll only be hearing it in my heart from now on I guess.
By Jeff
April 18, 2008 12:07 PM | Link to this
I saw Chris Gaffney with Dave Alvin at McCabes on Jan 18, 2008. This is so sad but I’m glad I got to see him one last time. We will always have his music. God bless Chris’ family and friends. Peace, Love and Soul.
By Beamer
April 19, 2008 5:58 PM | Link to this
I knew Chris since the 70’s “Dining Cocktails” band in Newport Beach and have seen him many, many times since (Coach House and Swallows). He will certainly missed on the music scene, but I’m sure more so as a friend to so many. Julie, my thoughts and prayers are with you. Beamer
By Betsy Moore
April 29, 2008 9:29 AM | Link to this
He was the real deal. What a loss. For everyone. My heart goes out to Dave and the rest of the band and to his family.
By streetwear
October 7, 2009 3:58 PM | Link to this
You are the greatest!