Stan Szelest played with us on Homegrown. An amazing keyboard player, Stan was introduced to me by Tim Drummond, who had met him with Lonnie Mack, the legendary guitarist. I will never forget playing with Stan! His great touch can be heard on several Homegrown tracks, effortlessly playing incredible notes and grooves.

Stan was 48 years old, in Woodstock recording an album with Levon Helm, Rick Danko and Garth Hudson when he had a heart attack. He played for more than 30 years in his band, Stan and the Ravens, very popular in western New York, perfecting a blues-based style that he worked to pass on to several aspiring musicians.

After forming Stan and the Ravens in 1958, Mr. Szelest took time out to work with Lonnie Mack. He also played with the Hawks, Ronnie Hawkins’ band. The Hawks later backed Bob Dylan and became famous as the Band. Stan recorded with the great Roy Buchanan, Lonnie Mack, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Jesse Ed Davis, Delbert McClinton and Northern Lights, all amazing musicians.

He was a great musician and I wish I had played more with him than just the one recording – Homegrown in 1974-75. Stan was a master. Thanks to Tim Drummond, for introducing me to Stan.
ny