A Tribute to Sam

His real name is Mason Swearingen, and he was a truly amazing human being. But to many of his good friends, we simply affectionately referred to him as "Sam.".

Sam was a great band mate, a wonderful singer and a gifted musician. But above all, he was an abundantly loved human being.

We adored him, as did so many of his dear friends and fans.

Sam was the "Iron Man." I remember so well like it was yesterday when Sam, myself, and the band ripped through 14 shows in 11 days down in Myrtle Beach, SC during one Magnificent Bike Week. We literally set all those stages on fire. That was 13 years ago during the halcyon days of the Air Dogs.

He recently passed away doing what he loved to do most - performing and enteraining on stage to jam packed audiences. Gifting smiles to everyone in the room, making everyone dance and sing with him, and having the best time of their lives. .

While performing during the 2nd song of the 2nd set at a "Beginnings" show, he succumbed to exhaustion and fell to the stage. It was a massive shock to everyone. He was rushed to the hospital, but unfortunately arrived too late.

I understand the cause of death was due to heart failure.

That's why my old band the Air Dogs, Friends of Mason, and distinguished guests staged a Special Benefit Tribute to Sam at the Cutting Room in NYC on November 19.

We literally just walked off the plane from the Pacific Northwest that late afternoon, but planned it and would not miss this event for the world.

It was a wonderful event, and the band raised a good deal of money for Sam's wife and family.

We know Mason Swearingen is looking down on us, and not only smiling but laughing at us in his inimitatble fashion. He would never want anyone to lament over him, but only wanted everyone to celebrate.

So tonight we Salute Mason "Sam " Swearingen.

For he was "Sam I Am."

And we all wanted to be him.

Cheers,

Kaju