Phil Naro, Rock Superstar Who Was Part of Hamilton's Sarasin, Passes

It is with sadness that we announce the passing of rock superstar Phil Naro. He died on May 3, 2021 after a brave battle with cancer.

Phil was an international rock star. Born in New York, he played in the band Talas with legendary bassist Billy Sheehan (Mr. Big, David Lee Roth) and sang on KISS drummer Peter Criss' solo album Cat #1. He moved to Toronto and played as a solo performer as well as numerous bands such as DDrive, Zeppelin tribute Ozone Baby, and Hamilton's Sarasin (he recorded the album, The Last Word with them).

A message from Lou, our blogger.

"I've been a fan of Phil's ever since I got a cassette of the band Talas out of the library. I noticed how much better the second side was and realized that was because Phil was the singer on those tracks. I've followed his career ever since and was happy when I found out he was now Canadian and hanging out next door in T.O. I managed to catch him live as a member of Sarasin during their CD release. He was absolutely incredible."

Media Stories 

• Blabbermouth
• Brave Words
• Loudwire
• Ultimate Classic Rock 

Social media reaction 

Billy Sheehan 

Phil Naro. One of the finest human beings I have ever known. I’m deeply saddened to report his passing. He fought a valiant battle till the end, and inspired all who knew him to stay positive and keep going against all odds. 

God bless you, Phil. Rest in peace dear friend.

Neal Burstyn

Phil Naro (as most of you know) was not only one of the most incredible vocalists but also one of the sweetest and most gentle people I have ever met. 

My most sincere condolences go out to his family and friends, and I'm honoured to have been a friend of his. 

David Barrett

Phil wouldn’t get through a set in a pub without calling me up to play Yes or McCartney, who else can sing those songs in full voice? We had some great times with Druckfarben, but the  highlight and my fondest memory of Phil was playing Detroit Rock City at the Phoenix in full Kiss make up and Dressed To Kill suits, he’d do his best Paul Stanley impersonation...”Listen....!”  and we’d crack up and he’d do it again! I’d always tell him he was my favourite singer and Phil would reply with some gracious comment. My condolences to his many band members and musical collaborators, friends and family. 

Links: Sarasin, More Sarasin Stories, Video above courtesy of Sarasin - Topic

Links: Phil Naro, More Phil Naro Stories, Videos above courtesy of Phil Naro - Topic

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Keyboardist Herve Basset Passes

It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Toronto keyboardist Herve Basset. He was an early member of the Hamilton/Burlington group Smoke Wagon Blues Band and played with many area musicians as well. We will post more details as they become known. Our condolences to his fans, friends and family.

There will be a celebration of his life on July 1st, 1-3pm at the Hideout in Toronto.

Here are a few heartfelt comments from social media

Corey Lueck (Smoke Wagon Blues Band):

Herve was a dear friend and musical brother, we traveled all over this damn province together making music, the chemistry we had on stage took us to some crazy lands and back. Herve played on many of our early albums and close fans of the band will always remember him as "Greasy Bones Herve"

Phil Naro: 

Herve, your life was taken away way too soon and it is hard to understand why tragic things like this happen to such talented & good people. So glad we were able to work together and will always remember all the great times we shared.

Marshall Dane

You were one of a kind brother. You were nice and kind to everyone and treated all with such genuine love. Peace out amigo. To all my friends, I know how much this shocks and hurts, so we will celebrate his amazingness each time we're blessed to hit a stage or share in the enjoyment of music.

Rob Quail

The loss of Herve Basset leaves a huge hole in our community. Just a lovely, sweet, generous man and an infectiously enthusiastic and creative musician.

Links: Smoke Wagon Blues Band, More Smoke Wagon Blues Band Stories, Video above courtesy of Corey Lueck



Links: Shawn Brady, More Blue Rodeo Covers/Stories, Video above courtesy of Craig Thomson



Links: Forever Man, More Eric Clapton Covers/Stories, Video above courtesy of Twentyfive Musical

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