Mikey has been a dear and true friend of mine for over 16 years. While I'm deeply saddened at his passing, I take comfort in knowing he is locked-in no more.

Life is often unfair, and Mikey got a particularly bad break. His all-too-short life was a life well-lived. The friends he made, the people he touched, and the good deeds he did were greater accomplishments than many achieve in a much longer time in this mortal coil. I will never forget him.

Be free, Mikey Dee, be free.

Douglas

Tha Dee taught me what it is to love and to be loved, what it is to fight and endure, what strength and courage are. We are all better for having known him, we are all poorer for having lost him.

I'm grilling some sloppy pork for you tonight, bro. Thank you. I love you and will miss you more than I could ever say.

b

mikey always supported my efforts in production and promoting and sent bands my way with the message, "this is Aliza, she is the best!" even when he didn't know me very well. truth serum wouldn't be the same without his love, faith, and encouragement and i am so grateful to have shared some time with him.

mikey and share a love of sex and kink and dirty movies...i am thinking maybe a porn-o-thon would be a fitting memorial. and hopefully he was watching the bunnies from above.

the boston scene is so lucky to have had you here.

x aliza

I myself didn't get to know Mikey until after he suffered his stoke. Previously, I had just known that he had been a behind-the-scenes guy with respect to the local music scene, like myself (Mikey doing his radio thing and me doing managerial work). I had been hoping that he would eventually regain his ability to speak so that I could converse with him and get to know him and what he had been doing on the local scene all these years. I had been inspired by those around him, the so-called "Team Dee" folks, whose dedication to and faith in Mikey made me feel that the seemingly impossible (regaining speech after a stoke) might truely be possible. That all this was cut short so suddenly is truely a tragedy. To Team Dee I'd like to say that if I were Pope, I'd make you all saints - well, you are anyway.

With Mikey gone, I believe that there are a few things we can all do in honor and memory of him. As with all those who leave us well before their time, if his memory can somehow live on, he won't be forgotten. The first thing, obviously, would be to support and appreciate the local scene. Like Mikey was well aware of, I also know that there's a lot of extremely good talent out there which often goes unrecognized and is underappreciated. In addition, while we can't bring Mikey back, we can help to prevent what happened to him from happening to others. As his initial stroke was most likely due to some type of medical mistake, I feel that we all should hold those in the medical profession more accountable for their actions so that these errors by caregivers happen far less frequently. We've all seen what has happened in this case. Finally, to those who knew Mikey, but did not visit him at all after he became ill, please think twice should a friend of yours ever suffer the same fate....please find the courage to deal with such a situation and realize how much a simple thing like a visit means to a person stricken with such a fate.

I trust at this very moment Mikey is playing drums with God on lead guitar....rock on dude!

ED

I too only knew Mikey thru this website. I first heard about him in an article in the Herald about his stroke. I have been checking in on his site for a few years just hoping to one day click on "recovery update" to hear that he was no longer locked in. I am saddened to hear of his passing, very say for all of his wonderful, WONDERFUL, loyal friends. I know he really wanted to get better and that inside, he thanked you all everyday for being the best friends. He seemed like a wonderful and remarkable man. I am only glad that he is no longer locked in and can be free.
Take care to all of Mikeys friends. You are the best.

I have to believe that Mikey is free and in a better place. I will treasure the moments we had before his stroke, and I even cherish the memories of him after -- the big whoop of joy he'd greet you with when you came to visit, the fits of laughter he'd get into when someone brought in a whoopee cushion (potty humor was never not funny to the Dee), and how -- sometimes -- when you'd be telling him about some news in the music scene, his occasional spasms would stop and he'd just look you right in the eye, listening so intently that for a moment, there didn't seem to be anything "wrong." I regret that after he moved the the Greenery, Kev and I didn't get out to see him as much as we probably should have. But I think Mikey ultimately knew how much he was loved, and took that love with him when he passed on to the next adventure. Miss and love you, Dee.

Deeply saddened by the news, but wanted to express my profound admiration for those who gave so much of their own lives for the past 41 months to be with Mikey, to inspire his recovery, and to continue his legacies.

His spirit touched everyone with whom he came in contact, and now we go forth, and do what we can to nourish that little bit of Mikey within all of us.

Rest easy, Mr. Dee -- there's some goooood pop where you're headed...

-steve

I met Mikey soon after I started becoming involved in the local music scene. For me, and for many, Mikey epitomized that scene. I have many great memories. Mikey will be sorely missed.

I just came back from spending an uplifting weekend at the 100th anniversary reunion of a summer camp I went to and loved for years as a boy. There I reacquainted with many folks who represented the spirit of that camp for me. It is a sad thing to then come home and discover that the brave man who represented the spirit of another social order, the Boston music community, has taken his leave of us. One of the Camp Medomak "ways" was to always leave a campsite in better condition than one found it. Mikey practiced a similar way. We all knew that when Mikey suffered his debilitation he left a music scene richer for his having been involved with it. And I'm sure with this departure there are many who feel heartened to have once known him. His seemed like a life well-lived in some important ways. I can lonly wish him an unencumbered journey to the next place.

I don't really have the words to express myself right now, but I guess I just want to say that Mikey was always in my thoughts and he will continue to be there. I remember the kindergarden party at his house, and I remember watching him at shows - his air drums, his excitement, his enthusiasm, it was wonderful. Lance and I will miss him.

I was lucky because I got to play in a band with Mikey. He did Keith Moon proud everytime he went at a chorus. The worst gig we had in a small town on a Tuesday and out comes Mikey with a couple of beers and says "Heiniken!! They could of given us Miller but they gave us Heiniken!!!" Never ever did he see a bad gig but always a better show than last. I hate to say it but the Boston music scene will never have such an inspiring cheerleader like Mikey Dee.
Raise a toast to him and make it a top shelf brand. He certainly deserves no less.

Right now, I just know he's standing at the pearly gates saying "I believe I'm on the list.". He's gone to the great Barnies' gig in the sky. I'll miss Mikey and I'll never forget all the great moments we had together at so many shows. You always knew you'd find him right up front, knowing all the words and singing along. Nobody has ever loved Boston rock as much as Mikey.

I lost my breath and my heart skipped a beat upon learning of Mikey's death tonight. Shock and sadness passed over me like a brutal tidal wave when I heard the news.

The passing of Mikey leaves me deeply saddened as we have lost one of our finest contributers, supporters and devoted fans of the Boston local music scene.

Mikey and I crossed and in fact, shared paths throughout the years. We even shared each other's shows a few years back, each as guest hosts on the others radio program. I am grateful to have known him and witnessed the many talents he shared. He was a musician, actor, radio programmer/DJ, promoter and above all one of the finest people I've ever known in all the years I've been involved with local music. He was real. Always himself. So comfortable and confident in his own skin.

Mikey was also funny, animated and forever one up on me when it came to local trivia. Admittedly, I wasn't always so pleased about that especially when he nailed me on a couple of boo boo's on my own show one night. Like I said, he was real.

I know that the last few years of Mikey's life proved to be the most tremendous challenge for Mikey and still he fought with his gift of an irrepressible spririt because he loved and lived life to it's fullest.

He leaves with us his legacy of facing lifes most difficult challenges with grace, dignity and fearlessness. His body may have died but his spirit lives on in those of us fortunate to have known him in his short life. I will never accept that he isn't in a more peaceful world bringing many more hearts joy, laughter, inspiration and song. I feel blessed to have had the honor of knowing him in this life.

Love and peace be with you forever Mikey

Carmelita/WAAF

A good man.. He will be missed by many. I wish their were more people like him around. He loved and supported the Boston scene more than anyone I know.

Mikey Dee R.I.P.

K

Mikey's love and commitment to the music was really something to see-- Every time I'd tell him the scene was in a slump, he'd mention a half-dozen bands that I needed to go out and see. Then he'd tell me some fun piece of music gossip and make me feel glad to be part of the scene. I was always impressed by his eternally upbeat attitude, and by the amount of fighting he did when things got tough-- The guy really represented what's great about the music world. I know he's gonna be listening when the tribute shows happen.

I met Mikey back in 1986 when I first arrived at Tufts and WMFO. He was already doing On the Town, and I, in the throes of collegiate snobbery, thought he must have been a bore to play so much local rock on his show. I was into highbrow stuff, free jazz, avant garde, Difficult Music.

Time made me a fool of course; after college I played in local rock bands, and I got to know Mikey better. I saw what a positive and energetic guy he was. He had kind of a mania for local bands that nobody could keep up with, except maybe T Max. He was always out at shows. He always found the best bands first, praising them in the Noise and inviting them up to play in Studio D.

Now that I've been away from Boston I can understand him better, and can see his love for the community he helped create and stimulate. Mikey wasn't just part of the Boston rock scene, he was kind of a glue. He knew how important it was for local musicians to have a smart listener out there paying attention. And in return he had countless friends.

How unfair it was that Mikey's motor mouth was paralyzed. All that energy suppressed. Be free Mikey.

I will miss your passion and your true enthusiasm for music as well as your kind heartedness. Say "hi" to Jeff Buckley for me :). Such a shame to see you go...

Michelle Briand/WXRV

I've missed chin-waggin away with Mikey about about all the music we've been hearin and seeing and all the old stuff still to be heard...Mikey would always listen...Goodbye my old pal.....Be free.......

this morning coming into work i read the obit for my friend mikey dee in the herald. i first met him in the mid '80's as a young enthusiast for the local music scene. as i started running into him more and more and we became friendlier and friendlier i saw in him a much younger version of myself: endlessly supporting the local music scene.although i havent seen mikey for years i will always remember the intelligence, his good nauture and love of all things in the local music scene. rest in peace mikey.

I cannot count the ways in which I've shared my life and dreams with Mikey Dee. For a while there, our bands were playing together almost every gig, the many BRO shows we did, playing live on WMFO, the nightlife, the music, the people, his first-ever profile story for the NOISE.

He affected my personal life. Helped me in privacy, taught me about generosity, gave so freely and openly. Though I was a Boston "scenester" too, he ALWAYS knew more, had heard more, had seen more. Which Boston musician in the last 20 years does not owe him a debt?

Living in NYC, I only got to visit him once, Easter, 2000. It was obvious that he recognized me, even then, soon after his stroke. I wish I had gotten to see the progress he had made.

Thank you to Mary, Eleanor and the Dee crew for all your support in keeping the lamp lit. The list of names in this gallery is testament to scope of Mikey's touch.

Much love, Mikey.
Save us some good seats up there.

PS- Please EMail any info on arrangements.

I'm speechless since hearing about our beloved Mikey. He fought a great fight - first in his support of the music he loved so much, then for his love of life.

I remember the last time I saw him out shortly before his surgery. We sang along to The Sheila Divine at the Paradise. He bought me a Rolling Rock. Not too long afterward, Mikey fell ill and I promised that one day I would return the favor when he was well.

Mikey, we will one day have that beer together - I promise.

Rest easy, Dee. You so deserve it.

Love to you all-
Anngelle

I've never known someone with as much pure, spilling out the sides enthusiasm for being alive as the Dee. His post stroke recovery journey has been one of the most painful, yet inspiring things I've ever witnessed. True rest and peace is something you have dearly earned, my man

He was always a pillar of support to us in our music, and was rarely at a loss for a kind word - or at least a well placed smart-assed one :) Mikey always gave me just the little kick in the ass that I needed to realize the preciousness of being able to get up and do what you want and need to do. He continues to watch over us from a photo hanging on the wall of our studio taken at our wedding. Beer in hand, grooving to the tunes.

Just as it should be.

Here's to a man who gave his heart to the Boston music scene. Here's to all the people who helped to keep his heart alive through what seemed like the darkest days. Here's to keeping the heart, the light and the beat alive. We will never forget you Mikey.

All my love,
Cat
The Cheap Seats

Also, to Mikey's closest friends and family whose tireless efforts supported him through his uphill battles and celebrated his small triumphs, your kindess will not go unnoticed.

I have been out of the Boston music scene for sometime but will always remember playing On The Town and the one time Mikey played my drumkit in his Cars tribute band at Bunratty's.Rest in peace Mikey.....

I was just checking in to see how Mr. Dee was doing. I've been reading the updates since his stroke. I didn't know him well, having met him once, through Mary R., while she was working at the Phoenix ... but he seemed like a truly nice, genuine, talented guy, and I was hoping he'd recover. I am very sorry to hear of his passing. Best wishes to his friends and family.

Everyone at TT's is deeply saddened to hear of Mikey's passing. Seemed like a show was never in full swing until Mikey took his place up front.

Over the past couple of years we've missed his physical presence but felt his spirit which so joyously lives on.

I was always reading the Mikey updates on the site and I am truly shocked at his passing. I want to make sure that the people who worked so tirelessly in ensuring that he was getting good care, foot massages, entertainment, local music gossip and love know that others know how hard you worked to make Mikey feel safe, comfortable and loved. He was one of the very first people to make me feel like I was a part of the scene and he was so funny and sweet and painfully honest about himself and others without losing his diplomacy. His generosity of spirit was amazing. Although I didn't know him as well as some I will always be proud to say that I knew him. Rest in peace Mikey. Love, Sarah.

I'm so, so sorry and saddened to hear this.

While I'd only known Mikey through emails and mutual friends, he was more than just a local legend to me. The love and support that others showed through their words, the benefit shows, and this website was so damn inspiring.

Have a safe and rock-filled journey, Mikey Dee. This town was made so much better by your having lived here...

When I first met Mikey in 1990 I was quite young and intimidated. He was sure, smart, cocky and impressive. I gave him a tape of my music anyway. He was honest with me that the material wasn't ready, but I had promise.

I managed to stay in touch with him ever since and got to know him a little. I have always cherished his opinions and sense of humor. He had an over-the-top enthusiasm that was absolutely infectious.

He supported me and he championed the band (amusia) making us believe in ourselves far more than anyone could have. We will all miss him dearly. Our love goes out to his closest friends and family who stood by him all this time. He was a true original.

I heard the news of Mikeys passing today.
My first thought was meeting him at the Malden practice space where both our bands played.I had just put the 360s together and we were working on songs and he came across the hall to introduce himself.
He was so encouraging..and positive..i could barely play guitar at the time(still can't)..and he was "you gotta do it...really giving and kind.
He hooked us up w/ shows and radio appearances..and really was instrumental in getting our little group off the ground.
He interviewed us w/ my son there including him in the interview..making him feel a part of the collective..just such a warm/loving person.
He really cared about the bands and music in this town and will always be lovingly remembered for his work as DJ/Musician/Writer/and all around great man that he is.Thank you Mikey...
Love to his closest friends and family...
Audrey/Eric/Ian

Mikey was my soul brother, and he taught me more about emotional courage in the past 3 and 1/2 years than i can give words to. Mikey understood the deep and ancient power of music to heal, to connect, and to empower. And he gave voice to that power more passionately than anyone I have ever met, as a player, as a fan, as a promoter, as an organizer, as a DJ - he fed the tribe and the tribe fed him! And I believe that music and love were the forces that fed his soul and gave him the courage to keep fighting for life after his stroke. May your spirit fly free dear Mikey, and may you live on in every killer drum beat, every pure, from the heart, rock n' roll moment! Love forever, Linda

Mikey and his gentle soul came to me through Tina and I am so grateful. In watching how one person can deeply impact the lives of so many other people, in life, in illness, and now I am sure, in death, I saw why we are here, on this planet, together. Mikey was love. Thank you, Mikey, for your humor and kindness and your appetite -- thank you for being there for me when my favorite Uncle died and for sharing so many take-out meals, including your last, Blue Ribbon barbecue. I pray that the hundreds and hundreds who love you and whom you touched will carry your light in their hearts forever. You were one of a kind.

Well, what can I say that hasn't been said? Mikey, I'm sorry I didn't get to see you again and sorry you never got to hear that song I wrote with you in mind. I'm glad I did get to see you the few times I did and for the ruckus we raised with the infamous "machine."

Thanks to the Dee Team for being there when the rest of us couldn't - you are all amazing people and you helped Mikey so much throughout his ordeal.

I can't help thinking Mikey is now racing gleefully around above us trying out his new wings, just happy to be able to move again. A silly thought, but he is free...

FYI I posted a poll on the Noise Board suggesting they rename the Middle East Upstairs the Mikey Dee Lounge.

Mikey was one of the most loving, giving and alive people I have been blessed to meet. His passing leaves me heartbroken beyond words. I really believe he is happy and smiling down on all of us where ever he is, knowing he is and always will be loved and remembered. I miss you Mikey and thank you for every moment of inspiration you gave me.

As a fellow Virgo, I was looking forward our upcoming birthdays in September. I hadn't visited Mikey since Sophie was born a year and a half ago, and I was planning on bringing her to meet him this fall. She is an angel on this earth, so an introduction may not be necessary. As fellow angels, they must already know each other! We are blessed to have known Mikey, and it is my hope that our paths will cross again. Om shanti, peace, love and light to all.

Rest in Peace Mikey. You are one of the good guys, never was a bad bone in your body and I know there's a special place in the afterlife for you. I hope you are partying with Janis, Jimi, and John Lennon.

i'm so, so sad to hear the news. mikey's energy, enthusiasm, and encouragement were amazing things. and i've been incredibly moved by the love and dedication shown by mikey's closest friends since his stroke. what a community; what a FAMILY. you made such a difference. i send you guys my love and condolences and admiration, and i hope i'll be able to make it back to boston for the service.

peace to mikey and all of you...

jules

Terrible news, this.

When Elisabeth Parker and I started _The Fine Print_ lo these many years ago, Mikey was one of the first people to volunteer to help out, and the only staffer who stayed until the bitter end. He was a wonderful colleague, and a marvelous friend with a kind heart.

Should I mention the time Elisabeth, Pete Sutton, Mikey and I went to the Sevens and (well, you can imagine the rest)... or the time I dresesd up as "Mikey" at a Club Bohemia show and, instead of being annoyed, he took it in good cheer and told me I was drumming in the air all wrong... or how, before I had a car, he'd always drive me home after a long night...?

As it so happens, I was in North Andover on Friday. I thought, "I should visit Mikey while I'm here... nah, I'll do it later." I cannot kick myself enough over that decision.

Peace to Mikey, and a huge hug of admiration to the loyal pack of friends who looked after him these last few years.

News has traveled fast to the west coast about Mikey's passing. I'm very saddened to hear this, but pray he is in a better place now. I regret not getting to see Mikey in a few years, but at least can happily remember the last time I saw him at a party during CMJ in NYC. We were all at a bowling alley and Mikey was as always his upbeat and friendly self, wondering how I was liking Seattle and discussing our common passion -music. And like many folks have here, I have more memories than I can count hanging with Mikey in the 80's and 90's around Boston and Cambridge. I could always count on him to be front and center at a Miles Dethmuffen show (playing air drums of course). He was always a huge supporter of my projects and work. We've lost a great guy who very bravely fought hard through his tragic condition. I'll never forget you Mikey. Take care my friend.

Peace,
Chris Porter

hey mikey, i didn't know you, but have nothing but great things about you in the local boston music scene. rest in peace mikey and i thank you for every thing you have done for the boston local scene and hopefully there is some one who will step up just like you did. thanks mikey rest in peace

You can't control life but you can control how you respond to it.

I only knew of Mikey through friends that knew him. I read about his passing today and took a look at this site and the writings of those who loved him. If life is about creating love and gathering knowledge through experience then Mikey lived a very important and valuable life. Especially during his last very difficult years.

Reading the daily accounts section, I'm struck with how his tragic situation brought out the best in both himself and those that continued to be there for him. Life doesn't often give us a chance to learn how to really love and how to be truly courageous. Often that opportunity cloaks itself in disaster and misfortune. Mikey and his friends rose to that challenge and seized that opportunity, creating positive and constructive energy that will long outlive all of them. It's both a tragic and beautiful thing that has happened here.

God's love to all involved.

Mikey was one of the first people I met when I first started attending shows in the Boston scene. I was immediately impressed with his gentle personality and his tireless energy and enthusiasm for local rock music. Time after time, I'd see Mikey up at the front completely rocking out ... cheering his favorite acts.

Mikey taught me that fans of local rock are important to the scene, and that it's OK to just attend a show to enjoy the music even if you don't play in a band. I think of him every single time I set foot in a club ... especially in those places where we saw great shows together.

Goodbye Mikey ... I'll miss you.

Mikey, you touched so many people in your life. I was so sad to hear the news of your passing. I am sure you are in a place that is far better now, though I know it is hard for friends and family to be comforted by such words. You certainly will not be forgotten.
Joanna

mikey was one of the first people i met when i moved to boston. he really was all of the things that everyone has written about: funny; generous; enthusiastic. some of my fondest boston memories are seeing him play with "the kid". he will be greatly missed. --- marykate o'neil

I will miss you Mikey. You are in my heart forever.
June Weintraub

I can't remember the first time I met Dee but I sure can remember what I felt at the time..."This guy CAN'T be for real!" His enthusiasm was so pure, so unvarnished about the local scene and indie rock in general I was sure he had a hidden agenda, and was positive he couldn't possibly keep it up. Luckily I was wrong. Very wrong. His love of all things rock sustained, and, oh yeah, he never stopped talking. That's what was so painful to me when he was stricken, the cruel irony of it all, being unable to use his magnificent verbal skills. There will never be another one like you, Dee, and I'll miss you.

It's beautiful to see and know how many lives Mikey touched and how many of us he helped - his unpretentiousness would likely make him unaware of how much he affected us all. I know that he was a bright spot in this music scene with his passion, knowledge, and sincerity - as well as in this world, as you couldn't ask for a more genuine friend. I will never forget our great conversations, his incredible support for the bands I represented through the years, and his wonderful enthusiasm and smile. I will miss his presence. I miss my friend. I am grateful I got to see him one last time at the recent BRO show. God bless you, Mikey - you are free and in peace now.... All that you did for so many of us, will only serve to inspire us to be more like you...

I wish to extend my deepest sympathies to the Linick family. Mikey was my first cousin I do not rrecall meeting. I pray for his Dad, brother and sisister and know that as Loved as he was he rests in peace.

With warm thoughts to is personal and extended family.

Love Judy

Mikey was one of my first friends when I moved to Boston in 1985. He was my guide through the local music scene, and he delighted in taking me around to all the great shows (Neighborhoods, Outlets, Lyres, etc.) and filling me in on local gossip and the "who's who" of the local scene. He could talk about music for hours, and his enthusiasm was contagious. He was a true blue friend, even when things weren't going so well. I will miss him dearly, but he will be with me always, especially whenever I hear an Elton John or Neighborhoods tune, or watch a silly Jerry Lewis movie. I'll never forget the good times we had, whether we were cruising up to Hampton Beach to see The Monkees, or taking off for Foxwoods on a Lester Burnham-inspired whim. RIP Mikey. The scene ain't the same without ya.
Love,
Sandy

Mikey was one of the most enthusiastic, animated, and honest people I've ever met. I don't think I've ever known someone quite so alive.

I didn't know Mikey from the music scene -- I knew him as a kindred spirit who struggled with some of the same issues I did, who could laugh at life, despite its hardships. But I can't imagine ever facing what Mikey so bravely faced. I don't think anyone will ever teach me more about what it truly means to be alive.

To the crew of wonderful people who stuck by him and continually lifted his spirits - your generosity and selflessness is an inspiration. I think everyone who has been touched by Mikey feels admiration and gratitude for all you have done.

Rest in peace, Mikey. You've touched more people in your short life than you could ever imagine. What a one-of-a-kind, beautiful person you are.

Mikey was my companion, my partner in crime, my mentor, and my inspiration. He brought me into a world of incredible artists, urged me to find (and use) my voice, and always cheered me on when I felt daunted or discouraged.

Throughout his life, he scrupulously avoided confrontation and conflict, until the horrific occurrences of February 7th, 2000. The Mikey that emerged was one who faced his uphill battle with a tremendous amount of tenacity, optimism, and above all, grace. We are blessed to have been able to share this side of him.

As always, he brought people together, and I am so grateful to my fellow members of Team Dee who helped Mikey carry that weight. You are all precious to me.

To those who missed getting to talk to Mikey the last time he was out at the BRO 10th anniversary show, I apologize for having to whisk him out so quickly. We always think there’ll be more time, but time gets away from us.

Mikey, you have earned your rest. You worked really hard, and I’m very proud of you. Where you are now, there is no locked-in syndrome and all of its attendant pains. You are finally free. Thanks for hanging on as long as you could, Kid.

Ugh! A Cruel Fate, indeed. I'm deeply saddened by his passing. My favorite thing about Mr. Dee is horribly self-centered. There was nothing like playing your umpteenth Tuesday Night at Storyville or TT's, stumbling offstage with your audience of two barely clapping, wondering why you put yourself thru this and there he would be! Mr. Dee would make me feel like the best drummer in the best band and it was contagious. He was a Hope-Giver and we are dangerously low on those. Very, Very Special Person.

Mikey, I feel so lucky to have known you & sure had fun "Boozin' & Schmoozin'" around town with you. Egad, Margaret, I had forgotten about the Sevens (* see a few messages above)! And I'm so grateful that I got to visit you & put my baby daughter Gigi on your lap last summer so she could meet you. It's hard living way out here in Berkeley California when stuff like this happens & having nobody to hug & cry with who shares my memories of you. Your energy, enthusiasm, friendliness & perpetual eagerness to nurture new talent & turn people on to "the scene" has had a lot to do with what makes the Boston music scene so exciting, fun & special. And the "Fine Print" (which Margaret Weigel & I launched & published) wouldn't have been nearly as "fine" without you. It breaks my heart for you to go, but part of me feels glad that you've finally found a way to fly free from your body. After all, a silent, non-air-drumming Mikey Dee somehow seemed like a crime against nature. Thank you for everything. I love you.

I first met Mikey Dee many years ago at a telemarketing gig.

One day I aked my co-workers if anyone had a turntable (those things that play vinyl) so I could record some Big Black albums. Mikey Dee said he didn't own any turntables but I could join him at WMFO radio and record them while he deejayed. Mikey was spinning such fantastic freeform music that I decided that I, too, had to be a deejay.

A year later Mikey Dee decided to feature local music on his show, broadcasting live music and interviewing Boston-based artists. Once again, I followed in Mikey's footsteps and did the same on my show, albeit with a different focus.

Through Mikey I had the fantastic experience of deejaying at WMFO and making some wonderful friends while spinning there. Throughout the years I've been inspired by Mikey's love of music and life, his adventurousness and playfulness, and his ability to laugh at the world and himself. Mikey's spirit can't be contained in these meager paragraphs but all who knew him will know what I'm talking about.

Mikey's gone on to that big party in the sky. I look forward to seeing him again some day.

I met Mikey in 1991, when I dropped by 'MFO to ask what he thought of my band’s tape. I thought it was pretty good (it wasn’t); Mikey shrugged his shoulders, clearly underwhelmed, and said “oh...it’s all right.” And then he put it on the air anyway. He was no less willing to play a piece of garbage – because some listener might be into it – than he was to be supportive of later, better bands I played in, bands whose music he actually liked. I know he encouraged countless other fledgling musicians the same way.

Mikey was a sweet guy whose illness proved that life isn’t fair. But his life proved that you get what you deserve when it comes to friends, and he had some of the most incredible friends I’ve ever seen. I’ll always appreciate that lesson, and I’ll always remember Mikey.

There was never more joy in the world than when Mikey played air drums, front and center at a show, to a band he loved.

What a world-class philosopher and thinker about the ways of love. Mikey was a Nice Guy, and membership in his Nice Guy Club was a blessing from the best, a never-failing romantic at heart. Nice Guy #1 will be missed, certainly more than I can properly say right now.

My thoughts are not only with Mikey, but also with everybody who spent time, effort, and love making sure he was comfortable and safe.

May Mikey Dee be put in charge of drink tickets in heaven.

Bob

I am incrediby inspired by the wealth of love and community that resulted, so ironically, from the sad and so unfairly arbitrary illness that befell Mikey. We will all miss you deeply. You will long be remembered not only for the positive impact you had on the Boston music community during your life, but also for the way your illness brought that community together in such a loving and caring and positive way.

-Ken

The last time I saw Mikey was a month ago from the wings of the stage Downstairs at the Middle East. It was the BRO 10th Anniversary show and MC Pat McGrath announced that the Best Performance as a Donut Munching Cop was with us - Mr. Mikey Dee. In the shadows of the room in which we'd shared so many rehearsal hours in so many BRO shows I saw him: the unmistakable form, but more than that, the unmistakable Presence of Mikey Dee.

The crowd cheered and whistled. And cheered. And called out "DEEEE". And applauded. It was the grandest ovation of the night. And I don't think the applause for Mikey was because he was tragic or courageous. It was because the Presence of The Dee at a Boston Rock Show is the DNA marker for all the best traits of the Boston Rock Scene: loyalty, encouragement, loving awareness, and genuine fraternity.

That'll do, pig. That'll do.

When you're sad and when you're lonely
And you haven't got a friend
Just remember that death is not the end
And all that you held sacred
Falls down and does not mend
Just remember that death is not the end
Not the end, not the end
Just remember that death is not the end...
rest in peace Mikey boy.

And in the end... the love you take...
Is equal to the love.. you make.

Mikey took a whole lotta love.

Hope you are in a great place. If one exists, I'm sure you're there.

Michelle

I'm blessed to have shared many moments of Mikey's life in Boston- from the new guy in town with a love of goofy, untamed drumming, to self-effacing Woody Allen-styled quipster, to scenemaker extraordinaire, in-demand radio personality and all purpose anything-goes live music MC and finally to his true calling: working radio promotion with the Planetary Group. He had gained real respect among the movers and shakers of the industry with his presence at CMJ, The Rumble and South By Southwest and with his eagerly awaited e mail reports of the Boston scene and beyond. This was to me the most unspeakable part of the tragedy. Mikey was finally becoming not just a great friend, musician and uniter of musicians and music lovers in town, not just the guy who threw the parties that were not to be missed, not just a scenester who unlike a lot of scenesters never bought into the attitude that he was any more special, cool or hip than anyone else and who never, ever turned anybody back from being part of his scene. Mikey was taking all the love and good energy he had put out with seemingly endless generosity, and he was finally reaping the rewards. And all of us that knew him saw that he was truly happy and growing into the great possibilities of the future that he so richly deserved. The selfless goodness and friendship he had radiated for so long was all coming back to him. But then the tragedy happened, and it sent a shockwave through this town. One of the greatest, most honest and caring people to ever emerge out of our music scene needed our help. And the response was tumultuous. Every club in town opened their doors, and every musician whose lives he had touched clamored to play for free in appreciation. It was the only thing we could do. It just wasn't fair. Now and for the rest of my life I will continue to remember what a truly great person he was, and how he enriched my life and the lives of many others. Mikey finally died on July 6th, my birthday. He will always be a part of me.

I remember when I saw Mikey playing actual drums with the sunspots! I was amazed. I am so grateful to have known Mikey Dee. His nurturing reviews and support were unforgettable to all of our bands. He was a super decent guy whose enthusiasm for music and life was warmly felt whenever he was around.

Lilia

i got a call from a friend at about 11 pm last night. i never expected things to go this way but i know that it's best. mikey and i spent a hell of a lot of time together, from working at planetary to arguing about who did what in this or that band to renting obscure movies... there's a lot stewing in my head, maybe some of these fragments will make sense.

-mikey brought a snare drum and crash cymbal to the planetary office so that we could punctuate our one-liners and puns appropriately. we got in a bit of trouble with that one.

-mikey told me many times that, the older he got, the harder he wanted to rock.

-mikey came to my parents' house and started a huge fuss about how much he thought it was nasty that i was eating steak tartare. he was enjoying it immensely after about 2 minutes of cajoling.

-i recall a great evening at mikey's house in somerville when Mickey Bliss Organ Combo played downstairs and the event was strictly formalwear.

-it is hard to overstate how much this man cared about local music. i think most rock musicians in the area will attest to that.

-yowza.

-mikey liked to use a lewd joke about Senor Wences.

-we spent an great weekend at the Burlington Music Festival together as panel speakers several summers back. sharing a hotel room was unforgettable.

-mikey used to paw through the racks at DiscDiggers in Davis Square and wait for them to mark down certain discs because "they don't know their pop."

-there was a lot of air instruments played in an office with mikey dee. he used to do a lot of the 'one foot raised on the monitor guitar' and the 'lay across the desk with the guitar'.

-amazons.

-mikey used to frequently tell people to "listen to the bass".

-there was a lot of "water" drank on the air at WMFO. it was often remarked how good this "water" tasted.

-mikey once tried out for the drummer job for SSD (the seminal Boston hardcore act).

-a past girlfriend once cut the sleeves off one of mikey's most prized possessions, an original Spinal Tap promo t-shirt. prior to that, people often tried to buy it from him in the street.

-the name mikey dee is short for "Mikey Dee Costello" which some dj friend gave him years back . this guy was certain that mikey looked "EXACTLY" like Elvis Costello. go figure.

-in the WMFO studios there should still be a great picture of mikey with some very suspect facial hair.

-i had the honor of shaving mikey's head many times, in the office and in Spalding. he took to it very well.

-"the best in local and live."

-was there a bigger fan of Xena The Warrior Princess? i doubt it.

-we had many many memorable nights at Redbones scarfing pulled pork. testimonials were often also made to Pabst Blue Ribbon

-mikey's last name was a secret for a long time.

-the man was a huge fan of elton john.

-mikey was quiet and introspective on his own time, often reading. otherwise he was a tireless fanatic in search of music, food and good times.

-mikey kept a sticker on his computer that read "FIND IT." i'd like to think that he has.

dup

(see more mikey messages at http://www.thenoiseboard.com/index.php?showtopic=792&st=0 )

My 6 year old daughter was looking at my old photo albums recently and came across a photo of Mikey about to take a bite out of the back end of the Thanksgiving turkey...that was back in the very early 1990's when I was sharing a house with Roberta. The Barnies, Miles Deffmuffin and Laughing Academy...they were the first bands that Mikey introduced me to.. and I have to say I still listen to them. I've been home in Australia for over a decade but I have never forgotten the amazing friends I made in Boston. I have been following Mikey's recovery update regularly and my thoughts have always been with him. Thankyou to team Dee for everything you have done that we could not. Mikey, way across the world in Brisbane you are sadly missed. Jane

I first met Mikey at Chet's Last Call back in the mid-eighties when I was playing with another dearly-departed legend, Matthew Mackenzie.I loved watching him play those drums! Mikey glowed when I told him he reminded me of Ringo Starr. We spent many a time worshipping Ringo, as all good drummers do...Mikey made me feel good about myself as both a player AND a person. Few people in this scene have done so much to promote and encourage so very many. A great light has gone out in these parts, but glows brightly just up ahead. So long Mikey, I'll see you the next time we gig together. Much Love, Boby Bear

I knew Mike Linick for quite a few years. We worked together at two different jobs in the 80s and 90s. I played on his show more times than I can count, and he would never fail to give any recordings of mine airplay. His generosity in such matters was extraordinary, and I, for one, will not forget it.

He had a wicked sense of humor and loved to gossip...I was occasionally on the receiving end of that gossip. I must admit, I loved to gossip to him also. He made it into an art form, somehow and it was all in good fun.

I went to see him only once in the hospital, at the Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital on Easter Sunday in 2000, shortly after the stroke. I carried on what seemed to me to be a nonstop 45 minute conversation with myself, hoping it was reaching him somehow. I know in my heart it did, and I am glad, because I now see it was my final goodbye to him, and at the time I never would have thought so. I thought a day would come when our irreverent gossip would start up again, music would be made, and we'd all be on the air, sitting on that broken down old couch in "Studio Dee".

I will always remember Mikey's generous spirt and incredible passion for the music.

Ron Scarlett

"When you're standing at the crossroads that you cannot comprehend
Just remember...death is not the end..."
-Bob Dylan

"Death don't have no mercy in this land"
-Rev. Gary Davis

My bandmates and I had the pleasure of sharing many "spring waters" with Mikey in the confines of WMFO. I can't tell you how sorry we were to hear the news. Mikey was always a big supporter and fan, but the truth is, we always felt honored to have the sanction of "the Dee". He was truly a force of nature. Someone forgot to tell Mikey that kind, genuine, and positive wasn't supposed to be cool. I was happy to be able to visit Mikey in one of his last stops at the Kirkland. He was a good friend and there was never a better friend to the Boston music scene. God Bless M.A.R. and Team Dee for all they did for our friend. The shackles are off.

I am so sorry to read about Mike's passing. He and I grew up together in Chelsea. We went to grade school and high school together. He was always so full of life and always enjoyed having fun. We lost touch after high school but I have been reading the updates here for a while after I found out about what happened. Here are some tidbits from when we were kids:

- Mike used to enjoy drawing cartoons... his favorite character he liked to draw was Detective Bleshes.

- Mike was the first person I knew who got a home video game system... the Magnavox Odyssey. We played it for many hours at a time.

- Mike used to enjoy doing Movie Monster Models such as Frankenstein or The Werewolf.

- He loved animals, especially all his cats he had growing up.

I'm glad he's not suffering anymore .... I'm happy I knew Mike and I'll always remember the good times we had.

-eric

Mikey, you will be missed! You gave so much support to the local music scene by getting up front at a show and making a band feel loved, even if there were only five people in the club. You made me feel great when I was playing drums, because I got to watch you play along with so much infectious enthusiasm. I think you you knew my parts better than I did! You were also the best at making a band have confidence and try to take on the world. Little did I know we would part ways so soon. You were an inspiriation! Keep the Rock and Roll alive! I'm so glad I had the honor to meet you and get to know you. Thank you for the time.
Love,
Kevin

A very sad day for Boston rock and for all who knew Mikey. I didn't know Mikey really well, but if you saw more than a couple of local shows, you knew who he was. Even early on, it was obvious to me that this was a guy who had a major passion for the music. Listening to his radio shows, while I admit that sometimes I wished he would just get to the song already, I couldn't help but still be amazed by the incredible encyclopedic knowledge that he had.

A few years ago, I had my longest conversation with Mikey. We had met a few times (we had friends in common), but had never really talked at any length before. I was amazed that he had remembered my inconsequential band from 7 or so years prior. That was just the kind of thing he would know... Anyway we chatted for awhile about local rock past and present. It was a fun time, and I'm glad that I had that time with him. He'll be missed.

Peace, Mikey -
"Rock"/Mike

p.s. My condolences also to those who had been taking care of Mikey. Mary, Eleanor, Tina, etc., may we all have friends as dedicated as you all were to Mikey. Your devotion to him matched his devotion to music. And that's saying something.

I am saddened by this news but the memories of how much you entertained the masses are stronger, Mikey. With you guiding the playlist in a universe beyond our realm, the music shall be evermore angelic.

My heartfelt condolences to all.

I first met Mikey when one of my early bands went up to WMFO. There, broadcasting to the greater Medford area, was the most enthusiastic supporter of Boston music I had ever met.

And over the years, it wasn't until I could look out and see Mikey air-drumming in the first row that I knew a rock show was in full swing. Mikey was always supportive of my bands and it always felt like a great validation.

I never did visit Mikey in the hospital, but the other night I had a dream that he was out and back "on the town". I was shocked to read the news this morning.

Goodbye Mikey. Your spirit will live on in the music of Boston.

Jeff Robbins
Orbit / Well

I just found out this morning reading the wonderful remembrance in the Globe ...it hit me like a ton of bricks. When I started Instant Magazine in 1995, Mikey was pretty much the only "scenester" to give me the time of day before I got established. Mikey was always willing to lend a hand, give his thoughts, and, basically, be a friend. Since stopping Instant, I have pretty much removed myself from the scene, but not a week went by where I did not check on Mikey's situation via this website. Those of you who have been there every day for Mikey since the stroke are to be commended ...a true measurement of a man's worth is his friends, and it is obvious Mikey had many who loved and cared for him. It's strange, I have not thought too much about Instant in the last two years, but my memories of hanging out with Mikey at our 3 co-sponsored shows are flooding back, as are the nites we judged the Rumble together and too many other memories to write down. Mikey, you'll be missed. There will never be another one like you. -Chris Hinckley

If angels are amongst us then surely Mikey is one.

May he rock in the great rock club in the sky.

God bless Team Dee and may we all have friends like them.

Carolyn

Playing in a band with Mikey was something else. Actually at the time, I didn't quite know how to handle it beacause I was a total beginner and very insecure. What was apparent though, was Mikey's love of a great pop song, and his desire to connect with people. At our first gig we opened for The Barnies at Club 3. Of course the place was packed even at 9:00 'cause everyone came to see Mikey. And after we finished there he was, front and center for the Barnies, jumping around having a great time. No self consciousness and no doubts. He just wanted good music to be heard by as many people as possible, and he spent his life promoting it.

So Mikey still blows me away when I see how many people love him and will miss him dearly. May we all hope to be remembered so well.

Rock on Mikey!
Love, Nancy

To the ones left behind, to Team Dee, to Tina and Valerie and Linda and Mary and all the rest:

Your friendship and efforts over the last three and a half years were truly incredible. They made a difference.

I first met Mikey Dee many years ago at a telemarketing gig.

One day I was asked my co-workers if anyone had a turntable (those things that play vinyl) so I could record some Big Black albums. Mikey Dee said he didn't own any turntables but I could join him at WMFO radio and record them while he deejayed. Mikey was spinning such fantastic freeform music that I decided that I, too, had to be a deejay.

A year later Mikey Dee decided to feature local music on his show, broadcasting live music and interviewing Boston-based artists. Once again, I followed in Mikey's footsteps and did the same on my show, albeit with a different focus.

Through Mikey I had the fantastic experience of deejaying at WMFO and making some wonderful friends while spinning there. Throughout the years I've been inspired by Mikey's love of music and life, his adventurousness and playfulness, and his ability to laugh at the world and himself. Mikey's spirit can't be contained in these meager paragraphs but all who knew him will know what I'm talking about.

Mikey's gone on to that big party in the sky. I look forward to seeing him again some day.

I never met you Mikey but I met your spirit. It surrounds Boston and surrounds me. I will push forward as hard as you pushed forward relentlessly with a sense of humor and love of music as beacons to light the way.

Thank you.

On my very first day working at Planetary, I remember going to a show with Mikey after work down on Lansdowne Street. I can't even remember the band anymore, but I vividly remember The Dee rocking out out 4 feet in front of the stage. I remember thinking "Who the hell is this guy?" And during the following two years together, I certainly answered my own question.

Mikey was a man with not only a passion for things like music, food, and women ... he was a man with a passion for life. The Dee could find the good in just about any situation, and he made my life better merely by knowing him.

Mikey ... you were a great coworker, a great friend, and a great person. It was an honor to work the phones next to you.

I'll miss ya buddy, and I'll see you again someday.

-Mather

Mikey was such an inspiration to so many artists/musicians and others,that i am saddened to think that he is no longer here with us in life,but i know that he will always be with all of us forever in spirit.
He always took so much interest in all of us ,who try to follow a creative path,and for that i will forever be grateful,and that he shared his passion for the arts & music with so many of us.

In Peace
Morgan Huke

I got to know Mikey best during the rehearsals and performances of Acme Theatr's X-mass Carole - him a schmaltzy Borscht-belt ghost (Christmas Past, I believe), and me, Bob Cratchit, father of a ranting Marxist Tiny Tim.

Though it was years ago when we did those shows, I still have vivid memories of the energy and fun Mikey brought to the production.

He and I teased about starting a two-man band called "The Three Wise Men", but alas, it will have to wait.

I regret not seeing Mikey when he was ill and will file that in the lessons learned folder of life: Not everything can wait until tomorrow.

I suppose to best serve his memory and his spirit, I'll follow the sound advice he gave at intermission for every X-mass Carole show...

"Have a drink! Schmooze!"

Will do, Mikey.

still trying to come to grips with the news. such a mixed blessing. certainly, reading all the love and thanks everyone has posted has helped me greatly. I knew Mikey long before we worked together @ Planetary. he was such a huge advocator, supporter, self-contained street team and amazing friend to so many people in and around our little music scene. I'm very proud to have considered him a close friend. the thought that eases my heart the most is knowing he's up on his feet and running around now, laughing and singing 'Car Radio' by Spoon, playing air drums and sharing that encyclopedic wealth of information that is his memory bank. Smooze on Dee, smooze on.

Aaron

I am so sad to hear the news. Mikey was an inspiration to us all. A genuinely good person and incredibly supportive of the Boston music scene.

I had the chance to play the On the Town show twice with Make Lisa Rich. I will never forget the first time we played and how encouraging Mikey was towards MLR, talking on-air with us and spinning tunes from our first full-length record. The second time we were scheduled to play, about a year later, we had heard that "someone" was filling in for Mikey. I thought that this was strange and was actually upset that he would not be there for the show. Plenty of people knew what had happened and I was completely in the dark. We played the show and dedicated our set to Mikey and hoped that he was listening. Later when I found out why he wasn't there I was quite upset with myself, selfishly thinking that he had “something else to do”. When MLR released our last CD EP single in 2000, we included 3 bonus tracks taken from the MFO recordings in dedication to Mikey.

Mikey, watch over us and know that we will miss you and never forget you.

{d}

Although I didn't personally know Mikey, my brother did introduce me to him once after the Jesus Christ Superstar show in 1996. I know that my brother was very good friends with him and he touched the lives of everyone that knew him.

My heart goes out to Mikey's family and friends who are suffering from this great loss of a great musician and friend.

Mikey Dee was the first person I ever met in Boston that had hope for my band. Sorry to let you down Mikey, but I'm afraid my touring days may have come to an end. I loved you Mikey! You picked me up when I was going through a tough time. Thank you.

I remember bonding with Mikey over a love of The Sheila Divine. As a fellow Noise writer, DJ, music critic, and overall fan, I know how hard it is to be universally liked and respected - and Mikey accomplished that with great ease. He lived life to the fullest; he lived for rock & roll, and rock & roll lives in part thanks to him. I can't say I knew Mikey well, however, I can't help but imagine that I would have if he had stayed well. Wherever he is now, it's certainly a more happening place than the one he departed.

Mikey was an actors actor. Always on time and always asking for more. More lines that is. Mikey could chew up scenerey like it was bagels, although for some strange reason he always ended up with donuts... Much of what has been said before is true for me as well. Mikey touched so many. God bless.

Gary Quinton and Acme Theatr.

I knew Mikey back in high school days. While we weren't the closest of friends, I enjoyed hanging out with him and talking music. Back in high school so many people are passionate about music, but few go on to spend their life dedicated to it.
I think I only ran into Mikey twice since high school, and of course both times it was at local clubs. I was impressed and not surprised to hear that he continued on to make his career in the music business.

I wish I came across this website earlier so I might have had the chance to visit him during his recovery. I'm very sad to hear he's gone, but reading this board shows how much of a legacy he's leaving behind.

I met Mikey through the Fine Print, Elisabeth Parker's 'zine. He was one of those people who defines the difference between a city with a thousand rock bands and a city with a _scene_.

My thoughts and prayers go out to Mikey's family and friends in their time of loss. Peace be with you, Mikey.

k.

I was quite saddened when I heard the news of Mike's passing. Growing up in Chelsea we were a close group of friends through school and even when the family moved to Malden. I'll always remember the parties, hanging out at the pool and all the fun we had. Mike, me, Phil, Eric, Ira-we had it all.

Rest in Peace, my friend...

I salute Team Dee for their courage and love. I wasn't strong enough to be in Mikey's world after the stroke. And there isn't much else I can say about that. Right now I want to share with all of you the poem I wrote for Mikey as a birthday gift. He made a difference in my life and as is revealed in these messages, he touched many others as well. Peace, Mr. Dee. You're free now.

people come into your life
you learn from them
endless interaction
take it or leave it
everything blends
but there may be a person
that stops you in your tracks
gives you hope
or makes a change
he is one such soul
a gem, I say
he may disagree
but that’s him
and I’m me
and these are my words
warped by friendship
delivered with love
he is a rare creature
wise beyond his years
drenched in humor
enthusiasm
determination
forever 12 going on 100
he delights in simple things
a teacher and student
with an open mind and heart
he offers compassion
inspiration
a wonderful friend
he lends a hand or an ear
never lacks generosity
a real person
without pretense
he admits his fears
accepts things as they come
but a cursed overthinker
he worries too much
only because he cares
this energetic workaholic
juggles many talents
his passion is music
that’s what it’s all about
a cheerleader and reveler
he bounds through life
in a t-shirt and sneakers
from club to club
night after night
he finds happiness
he weaves his thread
and makes a difference
he is rich with friends
many are women
how he loves women
all shapes and sizes
a penchant for the amazon
he doesn’t seek a quick fix
a one night stand
only companionship
smiles and conversation
he is the nice guy
abandoned to brother land
the romantic fool
lost in books and films
his hope for happily ever after
thwarted by the mirror
or so he may think
the reflection of an average face
on closer inspection
beauty shines through
it dances in his eyes
sings in his laughter
he is a man among guys
honest and respectful
I’m lucky to know him
he has taught me volumes
most important is this:
don’t compromise yourself
he never does
A gem, I say
and I’m pretty damn smart

September 1998

I met Mikey in one of his many drumming incarnations while I was still schlepping beer and ice and Bunrattys. The polite and friendly musicians stick in your head when you work rock clubs.

I got to know Mikey because I'd be photographing bands and he'd be playing air-drums, air-guitar or just rocking out right in front.

I got to act with Mikey initially in ACME Theatr where he was a mench of a Christmas past or a faux-fur wearing centaur. No part was beneath him. And that centaur outfit will stick in my head for decades to come. Mikey is a hot centaur.

I was lucky enough to be in a band that Mikey loved. It's hard to remember lyrics when Mikey is flailing on air-drums right in front of you at the Middle East. He gave us some of our first press in The Noise. He gave us our first airplay on WMFO - heady stuff to hear yourself over the waves. Thanks for the support Mikey!

I got to watch while Mikey's cop beat the crap out of Gary's Jesus. If Mikey was a hot centaur, he was an even hotter Jesus-beater! But I remember Mikey feeling bad for the welts all over Gary's back. A sweetie even swinging a bat!

I was lucky enough to get to know Mike - the guy behind the myth of Mikey Dee. Thanks to M.A. Ricciardi and Chris Blue, I got to hang with him when he didn't have to be "on". And he got to see me when I wasn't being a complete freak backstage at BRO shows. And my respect for him was complete.

Mikey accepted me always - even after seeing my yickier sides. He always cut people breaks - let us be faulty. I think he rocks.

And thank you to the Team Dee. You guys are amazing.

I'm done babbling. As usual. And I'm sure Mikey doesn't mind.

--Lynette

I am very sorry to hear of Mikey's passing. Although I have been involved in radio for many years, I think one of the most enjoyable periods for me was when I was part of the WMFO Wednesday night lineup of "On the Hill," "On the Border," "On the Town" and "Off the Cuff." I hosted "On the Border" and Mikey hosted "On the Town." Steve Clay (see his message above) hosted "Off the Cuff." After my show was done I would hang out "On the Couch" so to speak, and make remarks that the mics would sometimes pick up while Mikey did interviews. It was fun being part of something cool and meeting all the local bands. I still do radio, but I don't have nearly as much fun as I did then. I miss Mikey and I miss a lot of you folks who have posted tonight. I would love to hear from all of you.

Eric Bove, C, B, and B, WMUA Amherst

I've been out of the coutry the whole time Mikey has been ill. I remember him just as the powerful and valuable force he was at 'MFO. One of the people, in your early days, to call if you were in a panic (Something didn't work, someone didn't show up). He knew his stuff and was always generous enough to share his knowlege and bail out the less experienced.
It is sad that we have lost him.
Margaret MacLachlan (founder of Celtic Dawn)

Skyline Pigeon
Music by Elton John
Lyrics by Bernie Taupin

Turn me loose from your hands
Let me fly to distant lands
Over green fields, trees and mountains
Flowers and forest fountains
Home along the lanes of the skyway

For this dark and lonely room
Projects a shadow cast in gloom
And my eyes are mirrors
Of the world outside
Thinking of the way
That the wind can turn the tide
And these shadows turn
From purple into grey

For just a Skyline Pigeon
Dreaming of the open
Waiting for the day
He can spread his wings
And fly away again
Fly away skyline pigeon fly
Towards the dreams
You've left so very far behind

Just let me wake up in the morning
To the smell of new mown hay
To laugh and cry, to live and die
In the brightness of my day

I want to hear the pealing bells
Of distant churches sing
But most of all please free me
From this aching metal ring
And open out this cage towards the sun

Mikey was a wonderful human being who would greet you with a smile and a laugh. When I was with the Allstonians we had the pleasure of playing On The Town on a couple of occasions and working with the Planetary Group. Mikey was a man that really gave a damn about the local scene. He came to many of our shows and gave us rave reviews. I will miss him terribly and I've been fighting back the tears ever since I learned of his passing. When he gets to rock and Roll heaven there will be 2 drink tickets waiting and a spot up in front of the stage. My heart goes out to his family and to Team Dee.

Love
King K

My friend Dino called me Monday night to tell me of Mikey's passing. Dean introduced me to Mikey back in the summer of 1998, not long after I first arrived in Boston. Mikey was working late at Planetary when we met. I remember he greeted me enthusiastically, and we were soon embroiled in a philisopical discussion of the virtue of ass. When Mikey discovered my love of sound engineering, he eagerly invited me to help with his trademark show on WMFO. Mikey was the most outgoing, generous, likeable man I have had the pleasure of knowing. He will be sorely missed.

-ribs

i am truly sorry. the body may be gone but the spirit lives on. mikey stopped airdrumming long enough to open his arms and welcome me in ;> 10 years ago. his energy remains in every club in this town. i am in awe of the incredible love and time and spirit everyone put into mikey since his stroke - what he put out into the world he received back ten fold from the tireless efforts of his amazing friends. He will not be forgotten.
s

Mikey was a man after my own heart, a Jew who loved to eat pork and relished all things that appealed to his prurient interests, which of course included rock n' roll.

The few times I visited him after his stroke were great, it was nice to talk to him or touch him and see that he was able to find joy.

My sadness is only because his passing closes the door on any possibility of spending time telling stories, drinking a few, and laughing with him again. Condolences to Tina and the rest of the Team and family.

Jess & I were both very sad to hear of Mikey’s passing. In the 2 ½ years since we moved to LA he has often been in our thoughts.

I love the idea of naming the upstairs of The Middle East “The Mikey Dee Lounge” I like to think that he’s in that big lounge in the sky right now having a beer with Mark Sandman.

I can’t ever remember Mikey not being fun to be around, whether it was at a show, a party, or on the radio. There was always excitement in him. Excitement for music, for movies, for food & drink, for women, just a pure excitement for life.

Mr. Dee - you were the heart of Boston Rock and you will be missed.
We’ll never forget you.

Rick Shawalker

I knew Mike before I met him. I am Valerie Kahn's sister-in-law. Mike and Valerie were dear friends with a long history. Valerie and my late mother-in-law Joan both loved him as their own. He may as well have been Joan's second son and Valerie's other brother. I met Mike once in the late 1980s and he struck me as such a nice guy. I expected no less because I had heard only good things about him from Valerie, her husband Stephen, her parents Bob and Joan, and her brother, my husband Mark.

The last time I saw Mike was in March 1992 in Boston. We were living in New Hampshire at the time and I was heavily involved in the Jerry Brown Presidential campaign. I was in Boston with the campaign and ran into Mike, a fellow "Winter Soldier" for Brown that year. He recognized me and came over to re-introduce himself as Valerie's friend. We had a nice lunch talking about politics, life, children. I was a fairly new mom at the time. My personal memories of Mike are few, but they are good. Plus, I share Valerie and Mark's memories. They loved him. I like to think that Mike is visiting Joan at this time and that they are keeping an eye on all of us. I pray for him, and for my sister-in-law, who misses him so. They were lucky to have one another. May we all be so lucky in this life.

mikey was such a vital force of a person; i almost always experienced his positive, engaging connection to the people around him and the music he loved. in my mind he is forever behind his desk, on the phone, bobbing with vigor, playing air drums at a show; always surrounded by people, friends. i loved his communicative, supportive nature - i always saw him at a show or opening - and i know he's having a better time of it now that he can move and talk freely, as he was meant to.

peace to you mikey; you are missed.

liz

I met Mikey 7 years ago when I was getting started in college radio promotion at MCA. After talking on the phone for over a year we met finally met at a radio convention in Boulder. He pretty much ran the place, making sure everyone was enjoying themselves and introducing people who didn't know each other. I left Boulder knowing the whole AAA Panel, pretty much thanks to Mikey. He exhuded a wonderful child-like excitement and innocence to him, that was infectious.

Mikey had a great heart and spirit, which I know will live on in many of us who had the pleasure to have known him as well as the countless people who didn't, yet he found a way to touch their lives as well.

Rest in Peace Saint Mikey...Patron Saint of independent music.

I thought I first met Mikey when we were both working on The Fine Print several years ago. We got to talking and realized we had met back in the early 1980s when I was a high school radio DJ. I recalled being frightened by this young man who was the very definition of enthusiasm. Sure I liked music but Mikey LOVED the bands, the whole scene.

When he suffered his stroke, I was teaching a literature course at Mount Holyoke College, and the class was reading Jean-Dominique Bauby's "The Diving Bell and the Butterfly," a memoir by a French editor about his experience with locked-in syndrome (Bauby composed it one letter at a time with an aid who pointed to letters of the alphabet until Bauby blinked his assent).

My class looked at this web site and were very touched by Mikey's plight. I should have written this in at the time, of course.

In another note (I think it was Corin's), someone pictured Mikey at the Pearly Gates saying "I think I'm on the Guest List." Of course he is! I'm sure he's on all the other afterlife lists too, so he better be careful what door he shows up at.

mickey told me t 'clean it up' - re: the lyrics on live@jacques. straight between the eyes. some people are immediate. feel safer around those. make the world - and any scene - transparent.
personally, i didn't know him much. but have many incredible talented friends who did. who were there for him, and he them, for years and years and years. the measure of a life are those people. in who's hearts you live. forever.
never die, never fade away.
love to you mickey
r

Good bye Mikey, you will be severely missed.

- Shilo

I knew Mike since the late 1970s. We both attended Malden High (I was one year behind him in the Class of '81)and though we were not best friends, we were certainly fairly good acquaintances. My sister, Valerie Kahn-Dorato and he WERE best friends however, and I saw a lot of Mike at my house. A few years later, when he worked the deli at Mal's Market in Malden Suqare, he was really generous with the "free samples" of cheese, salami and corn beef! In a whole host of other (bigger) ways, he was a very giving man. I always felt good when he visited at my parents' home and hung out with Val and some of her other friends. Years later, both he and my wife worked on the Jerry Brown campaign. He was passionate about a wide range of items besides his most famous musical talents. He had many interests, was a truly gifted guy but, never developed a huge ego. His kind is rare and he will be sorely missed. I grieve for him, his family, friends and my sister who cared for him so much and will miss him greatly.

Although Mikey Dee has passed on he will always live on in the hearts and minds of all of us.

I am very sad to hear the news of Mikey Dee's passing. He put up a good fight. Mikey was always supportive and very enthusiastic about all my musical endevors. We first met in the 1980's and I remember him being right up front for all the shows. He would have my bands on his show from time to time. I would tape the interviews that he did with us, and tonight I am glad I did. He was so into music and so into local Boston music. A very large part of our local sceene has left us.

My every thought goes out to Mikey's family and friends. He has been missed in his absence as he lay ill. He will be missed for as long as any who knew him are able.

That big R&R show in the sky now has it's biggest fan to cheer them on!
I got the news of Mikey's passing at 5:00 am Monday morning from my Mom and I was saddened (I bawled like a baby), yet I was happy that Mikey was now Free!! I'm Tina's (Team Dee and Mikey's former roomate & Guardian) #2 brother and though I didn't know Mikey as well as most of those who are involved with the music scene in Boston, I did have the opportunity to meet him on a more personal note. Mikey came with Tina to spend the Christmas holidays at our Mom's house. He was such a joy to spend time with. He just lit up the room. I can still see him sitting there on the living room floor,wearing a big red Santa hat and a red Rudolph nose, playing Santa and passing out the gifts to our family. He would squeal with delight each time there would be one for him.. "Ohh, here's another one for Mikey! ". Mom still has a picture of him in this outfit on her living room desk.
Mikey was a rare jewel! His infectious personality, his incessant chatter, his charm, his wit. How could you not love this man? Our world would be such a better place if all the world leaders were like MIkey Dee.
I did get to see Mikey a few times while he was at Spaulding, when I brought Mom up to visit with him. It was so very difficult to see Mikey that way. Locked-in Syndrome had cruelly silenced that beautiful personality.
To the members of "Team Dee", I not only send my most heartfelt condolences, but also my blessings and prayers. You folks are really something special!!! I know how much you all loved and cared for Mikey. There is a song by the Country group - Alabama - titled "Angels Among Us". That song was written about Team Dee for sure!!
Mikey, we're sure going to miss you! But I know that you're up there in heaven, "Rockin' On" with all the musical greats who have preceeded you and having a great old time, playing your air drums and schmoozing while you're looking down and watching over all of us!! I can just picture you walking up to those "Pearly Gates" and saying to Saint Peter: "Hey, Pete! It's OK, I'm on the List!!" Put in a good word for all of us! OK?

Reading all of your posts has made me laugh...and cry. I only just learned of Mikey's passing. Oh, what a gem! What a true gem!! Mikey and I fell out of touch in later years. I got a family and moved to suburbia and fell out of the local scene. It was with Mikey though that I cut my teeth on that scene and learned to love it. I met Mikey in 1983 when he helped me to form my first band - The Vagrants (no, not the Leslie West Vagrants). I think that may have been his first band too. We struggled to get gigs at places like Chet's Last Call, The Rat and Jumping Jack Flash. Those years with Mikey forged my love for bands and music. I had only been playing for a year or two at the time. Now it's been 20 years and I still play and I still look back to what inspired me...those days when it all began...with Mikey. It's a bit hard hearing about this since my memories of Mikey are of such an alive and vibrant person. It seems impossible that something finally pinned him down. It's a bit scary to think anything could drain the life and energy out of that wonderful human being.

Here are some random memories of Mikey:

- he'd always make me laugh
- he reminded me of Keith Moon
- he always did love the bass
- he had a pet skunk
- he was always upbeat
- he loved (and lived) the local scene
- he loved the Ramones
- he introduced me to another life-long friend, Evan Shore
- he could find the humor in any situation
- he was cuddly and lovable
- I can't ever recall being upset or angry about anything when Mikey was around
- he was the best DJ Tufts had to offer during the years I was there
- he always loved those "healthy" looking girls
- he had a heck of a honker...and was proud of it
- before he was Mikey Dee, he was Mike D'Elvis
- he loved Woody Allen

It's so wonderful and a fitting tribute to Mikey that so many of you love him like you do. I knew Mikey at a time when hardly anyone in Boston knew who he was. It was just a matter of time. Once he touched your life, you'd never forget him. God Bless Mikey and God Bless all of you who loved and cared for him and about him. He was just a simple guy who I think deep down just wanted to be loved. Mission accomplished!!!

Set up the drums, Mikey, and have them ready for when we get to jam again.

Mikey remembered me and I remember him. Very Sad to hear the news.

I didn't know Mikey all that well, but I used to visit this page every day for updates on his progress. "Team Dee"'s utter devotion and optimism touched me and kept me coming back. After a while, though, my hope for Mikey began to fade, and I couldn't bear to think about him every day. There was too much sadness in my own life (sick parents, my mother's eventual death), and I stopped visiting. But the Team Dee people never gave up on Mikey. Eleanor Ramsay, M.A. Ricciardi, Tina Bugara, Linda Viens, Valerie Kahn-Dorato, and everyone else on the Team--you were all lucky to have been so close to such a special guy. And he was so, so very lucky to have such friends. Whenever I get pissed off at the human race, I'll try to think of the goodness in people like all of you.

I am stunned by this very sad news.
I met Mikey through BRO in 1992/93. Years later, while I was working at the Don Law Company, I had the pleasure of talking to him on a nearly daily basis. I would give him some tickets to give away on air and we'd talk about bands coming to town, bands we've seen, and almost always, ( I laugh thinking about it ) the hot chicks he was checking out at the shows.
I remember bumping into him at the Paradise at a Buzzcocks show and the first thing he said to me was, nodding in a particular woman's direction " wow, check her out, I like a biiiiig woman!!"
Well Mikey, I hope your garden of Eden is filled with big woman and plenty of ear splitting rock and roll.

You will be missed.

Kristen

A song for Mikey, in D minor (of course)

I heard the saddest news today
Heard it in a funny way
Tuning my guitar between songs

I know I’ve got that tape somewhere
The one with Mikey on the air
Laughing at our terrible jokes

It was about a hundred years ago
Just another band on MFO
But for a moment we felt like stars

I hope he likes this stupid song
I got a million more twice as long
But none of them can say how it felt

To be sitting on that fire escape and
Smoking butts while we waited
To play our songs On The Town

I heard the saddest news today
Heard it in a funny way
Tuning my guitar between songs

My sincerest sympathy goes out Mikey's family and friends. You've all shown the world what life is really all about.
Our loss is the rest of the universe's gain. He's a part of all of us now.
My tribute will be to continue to see and support local bands, local college radio (the only true and unfiltered music available these days)and of course give a pat and scratch to all the pets and any animals I meet.

Fly on Mikey Dee...........

"if there's a rock 'n roll heaven, well you know they got a helluva band."

and a helluva DJ emcee-ing the whole thing.

rock on, mikey -

kip

This is my favorite experience with Mikey, and I've been trying to come up with the best way to share this story, can't think of one so here goes:

Mikey had apparently spent some time with a very well known porn star on his show, she gave him her number and they went out. It became apparent to him that he very easily could have uh...helped her to practice her technique(?), but he passed up the opportunity. I couldn't understand it, I mean she was hot and a Porn Star chrissaake!!!

On one of my visits to the old Planetary office Dino and I were giving him a hard time about it. He finally grabbed a tape of hers and sat me down in the board room to watch her do what she did best. To my surprise this was not a normal pornstress, but a super-human whose only goal is to cross the line between sex and OH MY GOD SHE'S GOING TO PUT THAT THERE?????

Mikey looked at the horror on my face and smiled and said "See, now you understand."

Indeed I did.

I remember the porn star now!

I was on the air before him that night, and he told me she was coming. For what ever reason, I decided not to stick around, so I never met her. Turns out she ended up bum-nekkid in Studio A while Mr. Dee was on the air!

For months after, he razzed me for not staying. I didn't realize that he went out with her, but I'm not surprised, either. Glad to know he exercised appropriate discretion!

Douglas

I sure will miss Mikey. I would see him just about every time I went out on the town. He a good pal and a great DJ. I remember his moving 3 hour tribute to Mark Sandman on WMFO.

I do admit, I was very jealous that he would always win "Dj of the year" in the NOISE, though. So one year, in 1991 it was, I deceided to put a stop to it. When it was announced that we had TIED for the top spot, I went up on stage and tour off Mikeys clothes and we fought like wild animals until we were scarred, nakid and bleeding. I forget who won the fight and hence the title, but I do have the video recording for the Mikey museum and trust.

Boston is not going to be the same w/o the man. A very sincere thanks to Elenore and all the people who kept this site going and didn't forget him during his long stay in the hospital.
See ya up there someday Mikey. peace.

I first met Mikey at a party at Mike Knoblach's old place on Western Ave. - about 10 years ago, shortly after I had moved here. As I was a one-time rock kritic, we bonded instantly - and were chattering away like Junior Lester Bangses after about 5 minutes. I wasn't close to him, but I have fond memories of hanging at the shows he used to present at The Kirkland, and of arguing about power pop bands with him, and saying hello to him at shows as far afield as Wilco and Yoko Ono. I admired his energy and genuine committment to the local scene, as well as the level of absolute GLEE that he always absorbed from all music.. Goodbye, baby, and amen.. I'll see you when I get there.. d.

Someone you loved is now gone,
But still...
We must carry on.

Be glad we had him,
The short time we did,
It was a beautiful life,
Although - short lived.

To now be remembered,
at the end of the day,
not as one who followed,
but one who led the way.

Goodbye Mikey...
We will miss you!
UnChained

"Left for heaven without warning," fuck it. I wanna twist god's ear. One of the gems, man one of the pure gems.
And brave as fuck. You go to town teaching the shades to rock harder, Mikey. This scene won't be the same without you.

I have so many memories of "The Kid" and "The Dee", I don't really know where to start.

Going to Vermont for a music conference with him and going to this persons house who had a pool. Mikey swan so much we called him Aqua Dee. We played whiffle ball. Mikey was the worst on the team! He commented on "The Big Man can hit" for weeks to anyone that would listen. That was what he liked to call me. The Big Man. I really miss that. Can still hear him calling me that. He once said "You smell good - for a big man. You know most big guys don't smell good". Lol.

Going to Miles D./Premafrost shows together. Standing up front and wondering together...is he or isnt he? Mikey used to love to say to guys in the office - "Oh come on guys - we're all cat's in the dark". He once sent over Will from Chearledr to sit in my lap - because he told Will that "The Big Man would like that". He was right.

Eating Chinese food - especially crab rangoon at Chef Chows. All of us being so loud that I can't believe they didn't throw us out. After we were done, had the bill and were ready to go - Dee and I decided that we better get another order of Rangoons to go. Just in case.

Going to a strip club in New Orleans at The Gavin Convention. For some reason we thought it would be a good idea to go to a strip club, as Mikey was in a bad way. I don't know who was more horrified in there - me or him. We didnt last long.

Mikey loved letting me know that at the height of the movie Titanic's success that Leonardo was "not so titanic" and that I should check out this other movie to learn more. lol. Along those lines, I think every line from Boogie Nights was memorized in our office that year. We argued about whether it was real at the end!

Mikey used to comment that he was the only straight guy that reached for the Living/Arts section of the paper first. He couldn't understand why I reached for Sports or could be such a big sox fan. When I would come in the office with a haircut or a new shirt, he noticed every time. Amazing.

A client sent us a porn star to visit and put on a show for us. We hooked him up with her. What does he do? Interview her! We used to have fun coming up with porn movie names - or just laughing at existing ones. "Shaving Ryan's Privates" comes to mind.

Every time I needed to know who sang a song, starred in a movie - or often - how to spell something - it was the kid to the rescue.

So many things to remember. I will never forget you Mikey. I am glad that you are not suffering anymore. I love you with all of my heart and am so grateful to have had you in my life.

I see these little beady eyes, that big wonderous nose, all grinning - huge grinning! - out at me from under this sick sombrero, with little red puffball things bouncing around the edge of his hat as he played yes real drums!!! with us laughing like nuts. Mikey and I during this crazy "Button Sutton D and T" gig at Bunratty's.
Of course, the old crusty Boston Rock Opera days...hanging out in clubs catching up on the dirt days...so many great talks, memories, hugs... such a great pal.

A great, great. pal.

Big hugs and love to you always Mikey.

Lisa B

The last time I saw Mikey was in passing at the Davis Square T stop. We had both been at the Guided By Voices show the previous week and both agreed that it rocked.

I remember him being a fixture at Miles Dethmuffen shows, actually at the shows of almost every local band I went to see. He had an energy that was impressive and infectuous. Now that I've moved to Chicago, I realize how lucky the Boston music scene was to have someone like Mikey Dee to promote and support it.

Rest in peace Mikey. You'll be missed.

Mike:

There's a huge part of me missing .. and I can't even type right now; the only thing comforting me is knowing that you're ALL BETTER NOW! You're walking, talking, ... You're schmoozing! You've even got that full head of hair (by the way I'm sorry I never could answer your question regarding that.. now that you're with ma, perhaps she knows the answer.. better yet, GOD. if there is one).

Tell Phil I said hello and I love him and I miss him as I do you, and MA. Make sure you kick her ass at Scrabble, Boggle, and Trouble (remember, Red was my color) and stay away from the Scrabble Dictionary..

Be well my brother; my partner in crime; for every impersonation I ever did since we were young to the ones I do to the end you will be with me, and you will be with me anyway. I love you so much and I know you are not suffering anymore and again, that gives me piece of mind. Muggs & Crepps.. The Molinas, etc.. they will live on.. as you will eternally.

I love you.

Shari

I dont remeber to much of mikey growing up on porter street in malden he was older then us. but my heart and prayers go out to the linick family!! god bless you and stay strong!! love karen vollor and family

Hey Mikey --

You were always good to me. Thanks. I really appreciated it a lot.

- Luke

Mikey was without a doubt the first Boston scribe/DJ to promote my old band Bulkhead back in the late 80's. He came to all of our shows, played air drums in front of the stage and made us feel that if all else failed, we'd still have a number one fan to fall back on. As easy it was for him to stroke our egos he also could be brutally frank about our bad performances or weak songs. That's what made Mikey special. I've been out of Boston since 1999 and feel terribly that I never made it into town to play for him while he was in the hospital. There are countless bands in Boston who owe the initial stages of their success to Mikey. This may be the most painful of all losses to Boston's music scene and brings to light the eternal question of fairness and death; why of all people did this have to happen to someone like Mikey?

Mikey,

I am your biggest fan. Godspeed and rock on.

Kevin

When I first met Mikey I saw what a huge music fan and supporter of the scene he was. Over time I saw he was a really great guy and a truly positive force in the world.

My most vivid BRO memory of Mikey was our “colorful” renditons of the Temple Song and a vocal warmup drill (thanks and sorry, Susan) during Superstar rehearsals. These precipitated some laughs, some wry head shaking from our director, John W., and even some disturbed looks from a cast who were known for their irreverence.

At one point I recorded Mikey on drums with Butterscott in my home studio. I remember on one song laughing hysterically with the entire band as we listened over and over again to one of Mikey’s exuberantly ragged drum fills.

I also mixed live bands for On The Town for a couple years. I was usually painfully slow, but Mikey was always patient. “So, Tim, do you think we’ll be ready soon?”, Mikey would casually inquire as I stressfully twirled knobs an hour and half after the band was supposed to start.

But what I really learned about Mikey from working on his radio show was that he was a true professional. He knew pop music and culture backward and forward, and even though he reveled in the fun and humor of it all, he was serious and dedicated, and worked hard. Mikey was a good man, and I had a ton of respect and affection for him.

Mikey's spirit was at the core -- the very engine of the Boston music scene. I often wondered if he had a clone, because he was always everywhere at once. On the radio, at a show, in The Noise, at a party, always supporting, always boosting. He had a love affair with the the Rock of this town like nobody before or since. And it loved him back. In fact, Mikey wasn't just a part of the Boston music scene, he WAS the scene. We are so much emptier without his wonderful presence.
You'll always be in our memories, and "on the town" buddy. Rock on, Mikey!

I am so happy to have had the opportunity to know
mikey. I started at mfo on his show setting up mics in 88 or 89. I became a staff member until just last month when i did my last broadcast from mfo "On The Town" June 25th b4 moving out of state.
I am grateful to all the folks who did the Sunday sing-alongs. It took courage to go, but nothing like the courage Mikey showed to go through what he did. It is truly the worst thing that could have happened to him. What a zest for life (and redheads) he had!
It was fun engineering "OTT" , getting to see all those pop bands he loved so well and getting comps to see all them shows on the town. Without knowing mikey and wmfo, i'd still be listening to zlx . THANKS MIKEY
As i write this from the Black Mountain, NC. library, taps just was playing on their radio. I guess for another lost soldier. But uncanny to say the least. I wish I could be there in Boston tonight with all who show up. I'd just say to you that "it's for the better" and "just be thankful that he's not suffering anymore"
Times up at the library.
Best wishes to all. Don't be sad.
Glad to have known Mikey a little bit.
Steven Howard

Sorry I never said goodbye.
I will always remember the great times we had when filmed "Terror in the Cinema" in high school. Too bad the sequal never happened. While you are up in that great backlot in the clouds say hello to John Jones and my grandfather. I miss them both as now I will miss you. Though we lost touch over the years you were always in my thoughts, as were John Reynolds & Liam Brooks, you, more so when I came upon this website. Rest in Peace Mikey.

What always amazed me about Mikey was his ability to view all aspects of the Boston Music scene and life in general in a positive light. Even when we would find ourselves working together to promote the same CD, but from competing companies, his focus was always on what was best for the artist. Mikey was unpretentious and always seeking good. He was not only the most vital proponent of Boston music, but a real joy to be around. On the one hand, this is truly a sad day for all of us. But we can also be grateful for Mikey's example to all of us.

The perseverance of Mikey's closest friends--in terms of love and support for a friend in need--has been a phenomenal and inspiring example, almost as inspiring as Mikey's own determination to keep smilin' and rockin' until the end.

I first met Mikey a lifetime ago, upstairs in the Linnick home on Porter St., Malden in the early 80's. It hurts like hell to have to accept that there will be no more midnight jaunts to diners to drink coffee and tease waitresses, no more Wednesday nights at the Middle East, no more cross-country bus trips, no more of his special brand of dark comedy and high drama.
I love you, Mikey. You taught me how to live. Make a place for me wherever you are.

Dom

Wow, such sad news.

I met Mikey through Evan Shore back in '84. We were putting together a band – the Pets – and Evan told me he had this drummer who had a Ringo thing going. We met and clicked instantly as a band, hanging out at the Burger King around the corner from Evan's old place, Mikey insisting that mustard was an integral part of the cheeseburger, while I, being from NY, insisted on ordering mine without – hell, Mikey used to work at BK back then, he showed up at one of our Johnny D's gigs in his uniform, sitting behind that rickety drum kit of his, which he would adorn with stuffed animals. I remember going to some big hotel across the Charles to take band pics, the four of us dressed in black turtlenecks and suit jackets, trying our best to look like the Beatles on 'Please Please Me', or aping a news conference at a table that someone had left in the lobby – silly stuff, but we had high hopes back then. I remember being wowed by just how many of the local bands Mikey knew and loved, and that, like myself, he was a big film fan.
But the moment I will always remember Mikey for the most, and that took me quite some time to get a clear handle on is this: We decided to replace Mikey in the Pets – we were on to BIGGER THINGS, y'know – and, though he was crushed at the time, he nevertheless showed up at our first gig with his replacement at Johnny D's – not a comfortable thing for any of us (which, truth be told, we believed was his intent at the time). But then, half way through our set, Mikey, who'd spent the entire time standing not five feet in front of me, and you have to remember that, being Johnny D's, there wasn't a proper stage, we were playing on the floor, got down on his knees and bowed to the guy who'd gotten his gig. It took me a long time to understand that he meant it, that that was really the kind of guy he was. I wouldn't see Mikey for another year or so, when I bumped into him on the street somewhere near Copley Plaza, surprised to see this Pat DiNunzio goatee sprouting from his little chin. He was cool and gracious and could have – and would have had every right to – told me to piss off, or just walked on by, but he didn't.
I hadn't been in touch with Mikey recently. I knew of his illness and kept myself up-to-date via the site but, for whatever reason, I never contacted him. I certainly wish I had now. A someone else said, a life lesson to remember.
I can't claim that we ever were the best of friends, or that Mikey would have even considered me a friend at all after all this time, but any time someone who's light touches that many people fades its a terrible thing.
So, to all those who spent these last months with, and so loved Mikey, please accept my condolences, and know that somewhere out there he bows to you.

Tom Bwana

I knew Mikey from planetary radio promotions. I spoke to him for about 4 years on the phone. We met in person at the Boulder AAA music confrence. It was my first confrence and Mikey was one of the people who I enjoyed meeting and hanging out with the most. Soon after that I heard that he was ill. Im glad I got to know you Mikey!
skip naft kdnk radio

Be it a photographer, roadie, soundman, or fan, Mikey’s respect expanded to all levels of what he considered the Boston Music “Scene”. Before his stroke we had spoken of the triumphs possible when dealing with long term illness, specifically paralysis came up due to my own Neuro-muscular syndrome. I remember conceding that had it not been for the support of friends and love of the animals (of course), there would simply be no inspiration to fight. Mikey somehow knew even then, you were his reason. Thank you Eleanor, and all of you whose names we don’t know, those who truly kept the torch burning in this marathon. This meant more than any treatment administered by an MD. The tribute, the website, the sing-along are only a small part of the extraordinary example of the possible highest form of humanity, selfless dedication and connection to fellow man…just look at who crossed states to be there at the Paradise! FACT: Even in the dark of a BRO show, Mikey intuited when the camera lens was near…he took at LEAST 2 bites of the doughnut…until he saw my flash go off!! In fact, he is mugging for an angel bio/portrait/headshot right now!

The first friend I made upon moving to Boston, was Mikey. I have Robert Fisher to thank for that introduction. (Robert was my roommate and the three of us worked for the same company.)

In the years I lived on Myrtle Street in JP, Mikey was a semi-frequent and welcome guest. I found out that I needed to cook larger portions when he was around.

I remember visiting the Carnegie Deli in New York with Mikey, Pete and Roberta. Mikey ordered and polished off "the Woody Allen"-- a friggin' huge corned beef and pastrami sandwich! It was August of 1992. As Mia Farrow and Woody were separating at the time, it probably seemed like a good way to show some support. We walked down Broadway that afternoon until we reached the Staten Island ferry. (Yes, it did take most of the afternoon.) In addition to the Carnegie, we also had cheesecake from Lindy's. "Two-fiddy and a whole cake," Mikey exclaimed several times.

We were in Times Square, looking up at the news headlines scrolling by when we all first read that Woody Allen had taken Polaroids of Soon Yi.

There was a collective groan. Mikey was crestfallen. "Say it ain't so, Woody," I remember him pleading. The feeling of disappointment was something I shared, but with Mikey it seemed to run much deeper.

That moment with Mikey has always stuck with me.

I met Mikey when I was a freshman at Tufts and he was the hot shit at WMFO. He was a nice guy. He used to line up free concert tickets for all the young kids at school! (He also implored us not to take advantage of them ... that is, not to NOT offer them to listeners and take them ourselves!)

One year, he would come in every once in a while for whatever reason. If I remember correctly, he always wore a long coat. Maybe I remember wrongly. Anyways, whenever he walked in, I always felt the need to show off with the most FREEFORM display of radio ever. Maybe just to impress him. In our world, let me tell you, he was a luminary.

When he had his stroke, I was out of the country. I saw him at a Sheila Devine show on the Esplanade in August (maybe?) 2000 and they announced his presence up front. I was confused to think he was the same "Mikey Dee" that had left such a strong impression on me 7 years before. I hadn't heard about his situation.

I don't know what to say other than I've checked on his condition ever since and hoped and prayed that he'd get better. Tonight I heard he'd died. What a nice man. I have such fond, peripheral memories of him. I was impressed by him and continue to be.

Thank you, all of his friends. To stick by him so strongly is really an inspiration and such a model for how people should treat each other. I imagine you did so because that's how Mikey would have treated you.

I have fond memories of WMFO and so many of them are inextricably tied to Mikey. How fortunate.

Night.

Being a musician and a cynic seem to go hand in hand. That's why when I first met Mikey, I didn't quite "get" him. He was too nice, too genuine. There were many times I'd be caught up in my own little world or sound checks or getting the perfect guitar sound when Mikey would come up to talk. I'm sure I acted like a jerk. But you know what, he didn't. After being around him for a few years, I finally realized that what you see is what you get. There was no hidden agenda. He was Mikey. Just a purely nice guy. I do miss you Mikey.

matt

I just learned this sad news yesterday and thought, so that's why Mikey's name was on the marquee at the Paradise on Monday and that's what all those people were doing outside Marsh Chapel. I wish I'd known sooner.

When I e-mailed the news to my sister, Carol, she responded, "Do you think Mikey would interrupt
a conversation he was having with Jim Morrison if John Lennon walked by?"

It's hard to imagine the Scene without Mikey. So from now on I'll think of him as standing front and center at the Middle East WAY Upstairs, air-drumming his heart out.

I remember having Mikey over at our house for a Halloween party in the mid-late 1980's in Somerville. About 10 of us slam danced and pogoed to a mix tape I made with the Buzzcocks, Husker Du, Minutemen, O Positive, etc. After we were all exhausted and sweaty, we took a break. He said to me "this is a cool mix tape". I never forgot that. Here he was, a DJ at Tufts 'MFO and nightly nightclubber, and he complimented me on my mix tape. He was a music scene god, but not a snob, and could still appreciate a fan's love of music. I'll never forget that, and I'll never forget you, Mikey.
Peace.

This one's for Mikey... via the Kinks

Better Things

Here's wishing you the bluest sky,
And hoping something better comes tomorrow.
Hoping all the verses rhyme,
And the very best of choruses to
Follow all the doubt and sadness.
I know that better things are on the way.

Here's hoping all the days ahead
Won't be as bitter as the ones behind you.
Be an optimist instead,
And somehow happiness will find you.
Forget what happened yesterday,
I know that better things are on the way.

It's really good to see you rocking out
And having fun,
Living like you just begun.
Accept your life and what it brings.
I hope tomorrow you'll find better things.
I know tomorrow you'll find better things.

Here's wishing you the bluest sky,
And hoping something better comes tomorrow.
Hoping all the verses rhyme,
And the very best of choruses to
Follow all the drudge and sadness.
I know that better things are on the way.

I know you've got a lot of good things happening up ahead.
The past is gone it's all been said.
So here's to what the future brings,
I know tomorrow you'll find better things.
I know tomorrow you'll find better things.

Fly Mikey... Fly...

I was one of Mike's roomates back in '88 and '89 along with Ed Dube, one his best friends from high school. I was from the north shore and not into the Boston music scene; still, we went to see other bands and the one he played in at the time, The Heavy Fruit. We both liked movies and he was a tenaciuos Scrabble player. When he came to my parents a few times for dinner, they would marvel at how much he could put away. One time, he just disappeared for a few days; he finally returned(the wandering Jew had returned?!), to say he and some friends decided on a whim to go on the biggest rollercoaster in the world at the time, in Ohio! We drifted apart after I moved out and got married, but I still have a picture on the fridge of him with his pants pulled down, holding a big bottle of champagne, celebrating some small moment in our lives. I'm glad to see he touched so many lives; he will live on in their memories. Peace to all, Bob Pallazolla

I didn't know Mikey very well at all -- I was a DJ at WMFO from 1991-1994 during and after my tenure at Tufts. As another poster mentioned, Mikey was "The Man" at WMFO at the time (one recollection is that there were two bumper stickers the station was giving away -- one was a generic "WMFO" sticker, and the other was an "On the Town with Mikey Dee" one). After leaving Boston and checking the WMFO website one day I learned of Mikey's situation. I was always impressed with the fight he put up and the support he received from his friends, which is indicative of the type of person he was. He will be missed.

Let's have confidence that Mikey completed a great mission in this life - to teach all of us how precious life is! Mikey has physically left but his spirit lives on in each of our hearts. Mikey would want all of us to ask ourselves" "How should I live? How should I spend this moment? How can I be a pillar for others?"

Milkey Dee will you grow up!?
Your named like a drawing
You're smiling too much
Laughings painful at a point
Once at my place I said
MIKEY "CUT"
And you farted
When The Levee Breaks
drum intro
And I had to buy everyone huggies
Past the hurts to the squirts
I can see you all blurred on the screen
Through these tears
Why don't I ever believe them
Get in focus. Say one word.
This
Okay two
This sucks
Third?
Sohard.
Ah 1 and a 2 and a 3
Do your Keith
You're crazy teeth
He'll laugh so hard.

Jim Neill

Shoot, what can you say when you discover the glue of the greater Boston rock scene is gone forever? It hurts. I am buoyed by seeing all the lives he touched and to know we are all at least just a bit better to have known him. We were graced by the presence of the world's greatest and most unabashed air-drummers. Mikey Dee has left the building. RIP, buddy. You were one of a kind.

Hello all,

Mikey is looking down on all of you!

We've never met, but he sounds like my kind of person. I would have liked to meet him... I'm sure that I will someday.

Thanks,
Dan Wise
(a friend you've never met)

I met Mike long before he transformed into Mikey Dee. When I met him he was a scrawny,nerdy kid with bad skin who got ragged on by a lot of kids. Somehow Mike rose above all that and overcame many obstacles that would've destroyed a lesser person.

Mike always had lots of talent and an incredibly goofy sense of humor. I used to hang out with his old crowd of loonies but we drifted apart over the years. I think Val Kahn was the only one of us who he remained really close friends with. However, whenever we'd run into one another we always had a lot of laughs and he'd invite me to see whatever band he was in. I most remember seeing him play with The Pets and he looked like a cross between Keith Moon and Gilligan!

I was shocked and sad when I first heard about Mike's stroke. I followed his progress through this website and was awestruck by the devotion of his friends. I most recall Val's updates because she was the only familiar name.When I first read about Val and Mike's kissing therapy sessions I had to smile. Mike always referred to Val as his soulmate and twin and his first real love so I'm sure those kisses were even more inspiring to him than she could ever realize.

I want to thank Team Dee for being there for Mike above and beyond the call of duty. I hope you are all able to move past the grief you are feeling and know that Mike is finally at peace.

Love ya guy,

Johnny

Mike:

I know only you will get this (unless somebody from Shurtleff street is reading it).. but I was talking to myself today and said "get up get up get up" and all I heard was you and saw you jumping on my bed (and vice versa) saying "get up get up get up".. another expression I guess I won't be saying for a very very long while, if ever. I need to talk to you. I do, but need to write some more.. I miss you my brother .. "give it to your brother!" Nobody knows that but you...(and all of the other voices that went with the imaginary crowd scene you did).. I don't expect the other readers to understand the crypt in this so I apologize... I keep feeling like you can read this.. that you're still here.. that Mary, Tina and Val, Eleanor , et al., are gonna read to you and that you're gonna get this letter or something.. I'm dying.. I feel so lost .. I never thought you would pass Mike I swear to GoD.. I always thought you would pull through this.. sure it would take a long time.. but never ever did I think.. GoD I miss you. I've missed you for three years and this isn't fair!! I don't think there is an afterlife because you would be here telling me you made it okay! I'm sorry. Well, FYI: She wasn't a wearwolf!

I love you.

Shari

P.S. For those of you wondering about the wearwolf (sp.) Mike swore up until the end he saw one of our neighbors transform into a wearwolf.

I had the privilege of meeting Mikey while working at the Spualding for a short time. We shared many "talks" and listened to lots of good music. Mikey opened my eyes to things I never knew and when things got hectic I knew I'd find solace spending time with him. Even though he couldn't "speak" he touched me in a way few ever have/will.

Mikey I will forever cherish the memories of are time together, you've impacted my life in more ways than you'll never know and for that I am truly grateful.

To "Team Dee" you guys are the most loyal friends a person could have, though I know you did what you did because you knew under different circumstances Mikey wouldn't hesitate doing the same for you.

~ Sabrina
www.brilliantzero.com

Mikey was one of the first community people that I interacted with as a freshman at WMFO, and it was always a pleasure to run-in to him during my frequent night-club sojourns. His positive energy will never be forgotten.

In case you missed it, Ad Frank wrote a very nice piece about Mikey that was published in The Weekly Dig last week.

http://www.weeklydig.com/dig/content/4118.aspx

Douglas

Long, long ago, in a music scene far far away, I was in a band with Mike called the Vagrants. Now I'm a Mom out in the California suburbs and my band days are far behind me. But I'll never forget the fun we had with this unassuming yet unforgettable person. I don't have a whole lot to add to the wonderful comments that are already on this site, except to join the chorus of praise for the superhuman efforts of his family and friends these past few years. It's sad to know Mike is gone but I'm glad to be reminded there are people like you - something it's so easy to forget these days!

Love,
Kim Fogel (Simon)

When I was a Tufts student my band played with Butterscott at the Middle East. I was walking in with my amp or something and Mikey said, "Chick bassist? Cool." I played all aloof but secretly I was wicked proud (and a shitty bass player, but so what). Mikey was a sweet man. Rock on Mikey Dee! Thanks.

Just for everyone to know, Mikey's family was involved, and yes, they did love him, so it wasn't ALL Team Dee's doing.. yes, they did most of the part, but he was not at all, ever, estranged from his family, if at all that's what you have heard or what you think. Just to rectify, his sister visited him at least 2/3 times a month, even with her condition deteriorating. And his brother, well, I don't know. The only reason Alan, his brother HAD to give up guardianship was because his wife, Judi at the time came down with Cancer and had to undergo a double masectomy. This is the second brother they lost.

The bottom line is: Michael Linick, A/K/A Mikey Dee was loved by everybody, both family and friends.

Hi

I guess who wrote the above, a lot of it is true, and I even called very often too.. but I also wanted to express my thanks to certain friends of Michael's for watching out for him when I couldn't be there. I sometimes think that maybe if I hadn't gone to NYC Mike would still be here. But the bottom line is Mike is all better now. As Claudia wrote he is doing a photo shoot, and others wrote he's schmoozing. The selfish part of me just wants him here, all better with us. But the big question still remains, and I'm sure a lot of you have reached this point in the five steps: "Why"? To be continued. I love you Mike.

Shesh

To LOVE is an emotion, to DO is something else entirely.

No one doubts Mikey's family loved him in their way, especially Shari who obviously cared for her brother -- though she seldom visited him, mostly because she lived in New York, but I will go on the record, once and for all, to state that, following his stroke, Mikey's care was handled 100% by his friends. They not only loved him but DID something to try and help him and there lies the difference.

Mikey did not have a wife or a girlfriend when he got sick, he was not close to his family, but he did have a housemate, his friend Tina Bugara, and he asked her to be his temporary guardian. She accepted. She didn't have to, but she did. It's not easy being a guardian, unless you've been there, you can't even begin to understand how time-consuming or heartbreaking it is. It's not made any easier when you have to go to probate to assert your guardianship when you learn that your friend has become a ward of the state because of familial abandonment, which happened. I witnessed it.

Mary Ricciardi was Mikey's former girlfriend, they'd broken up a few years before his stroke but stayed good friends. Lots of folks stay friends with their exes but that doesn't mean they drop everything to help them when something terrible occurs, or open themselves up emotionally as she did, or visit every single week, often many times in a week. Mary had other people in her life, she didn't have to spend all that time with Mikey, she didn't have to share her thoughts with all of us on the update page, even when most of us could no longer do it. She didn't have to, but she did.

Adam Lewis. We should all have such a wonderful friend. He was Mikey's boss. First, he made sure Mikey had good insurance, that alone puts him a cut above many in the indie music business. But he spearheaded the benefits, set up the trust, dropping everything to help his friend. His efforts, and the efforts of hundreds of local musicians, club owners and members of the Boston-area press raised nearly $100,000 to help Mikey. What is left will continue to honor his memory and help others. Adam also made sure that Mikey wasn't forgotten by the artists who sent material to Planetary. Mikey continued to get music care packages from Planetary and it meant a lot to him. Adam didn't have to do any of that but he did.

Valerie Kahn-Dorato was one of Mikey's oldest and dearest friends, to her he will always be Mike. They grew up together and stayed in touch while other old friends faded away. We'd all like to think we have a friend like that, who'd drop anything to help us if we needed them, and Valerie was that friend. No one asked her to travel, at her expense, from San Francisco, first while Mikey was still in intensive care and then many times after that, to spend days at a time by his bed. When she moved back to the Boston-area she didn't have to visit him at least once a week, but she did. Mikey was a soul-mate, the kind of friend you'll never replace, and now he's gone.

T Max, Linda Viens, Pete Sutton, Joey, Al Janick, Kristin Gunst, Chris and Deb Mascara, Eleanor Ramsay, Mick Maldonado, The singalong regulars, the friends who visited... No one asked them to do the things they did for Dee. No one on team Dee HAD to take care of Mikey, or stay friends with him, or do any of the myriad things we did to try and make his life a little better and keep his name out there in the scene he loved, we didn't do it because we're saints, we did it because we wanted to. Because Mikey was a great guy, a good friend, and we liked being with him. It's as simple as that.

God bless you all for sharing your thoughts. Now it's time to say good night.

-Eleanor Ramsay