It is with deep sadness and a heavy heart I have to report the death of my friend Jimmy Copley, who lost his battle with leukaemia last night. He was 63. Jimmy played with Paul Rodgers in what was undeniably Paul's best solo band, also featuring Geoff Whitehorn and Jaz Lochrie. Indeed Jimmy was in fact the first member of that superb line-up (sort of) and actually first played with Paul on his Johnny Walker BBC session in October 1993 where the band also featured Pino Palladino and Brian Adams (yes THAT Brian Adams!)
Jimmy played with Paul, Geoff and Jaz from 1995 until the band was dissolved when Paul Rodgers moved to Canada. He appears on 'Now', 'Live At Loreley' and 'Electric' and throughout 1996 and 1997 I saw that band perform some amazing shows. Awesome stuff.
Jimmy was a fantastic drummer, with excellent 'chops' and exceptional snare and hi-hat skills. He was always friendly, approachable, enthusiastic and a huge Free fan. His career was as wide musically as it was long in years and there wasn't anyone he couldn't play with. He was fantastic with Tears For Fears, Go West and Upp but my own favourite things are the 'Stand' album by Char and 'Toothpick's Pillow' by Dogwood. I had the privilege to see him perform with both. He also played with Manfred Mann, Magnum, Moody Marsden Band, Tony Iommi, Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck and many many more.
In 2008 Jimmy finally released his own solo album which was reviewed in the FAS at the time and was a real who's who of players and showcased not only Jimmy's skills but also his influences. If you don't have it, check it out. The Dogwood and Char albums will be more difficult to find but are both things I'd hate to be without.
I hung out with Geoff, Jimmy and Jaz during two or three full UK tours (every show) and the Ronnie Scott's Residency in 1997. I can honestly say they were some of the best days of my life and those three guys were an absolute hoot to be around. I was very lucky.
Jimmy, I'm so proud to have been able to call you my friend and to have had the time with you. I'll miss you so much and the FAS sends its sincere condolences to Jimmy's family.
Below:
'Every Day As It Comes' - Dogwood
'Down In The Dirt' - Upp (w/Jeff Beck)
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