If you’re a local musician then you probably knew Erik Kleven, who died Saturday morning in a car accident. He was sort of a family friend–he taught my brother to play the bass–and I’m sure even some of my fellow Sac Raggers might have known the guy. A generous fellow, a real one of a kind.
In a very odd coincidence, while my wife and I were out on Friday night celebrating our aforementioned anniversary, we saw Erik playing with a little jazz combo at the Sheraton Grand. He died the following afternoon. I think it’s a testament to him that when we noticed musicians I instinctively looked at who was on bass, figuring it was 80% likely to be Erik Kleven. RIP
Great musician, great guy. Total, utter shame.
LikeLike
What a tragic loss, not only for the music community but for all his family, friends and neighbors.
LikeLike
What a loss.
LikeLike
hes the reason i am a professional musician. seriously, every day i ask myself “how would erik play this part?” the article is right, i still have a bass he gave me ten years ago. maybe i can loan it out someday.
LikeLike