“Slippin’ and Slidin’” by Justin Townes Earle played by Chris Durman thinking of Keith White 5/29/23

I’ve known my dear friend Steve’s little brother Keith White since I was 16 or so. I can’t remember exactly how many years there are between us, but he had to be under 10 when I first met him. Everyone in the White family is special to me and they are all wonderful, caring people. Keith has always been wonderful and caring, too. After taking an interest in music at a young age he eventually grew into the best guitarist out of all of us. He became a good singer, too, who could hold his own as a solo artist or play as a member of a band. I’ve been lucky enough to play with him many, many times over the years and we’ve shared a world of giggles and stories. He and Steve even let me play bass and our friend Karen play drums for them the one time I know they booked a gig as the White Family Band to play at the Mountain Makin’s Festival. It has always been a treat to get to hang out with and play music with Keith and I know there a lot of folks around East Tennessee who Have similarly loved talking with, playing with, and listening to Keith play for them over the years.
With very little warning Keith found out that he had cancer just about two to three months ago. The cancer had spread significantly by the time they found it and, while he bravely fought it, I think he realized pretty quickly that his case was going to be terminal. As you would imagine, Steve and the whole White family have been absolutely devastated to realize that they would be losing the youngest sibling of his generation sometime soon. Keith had three children who have been by his side as he faced this final struggle and the whole family rallied to help Keith stay at home as long as possible and to be with him when he had to go to the hospital. I know that Steve left room for hope and a miracle, but he’s also realized what a challenge Keith was facing. When Keith was sent to the hospital this weekend, I think many of us suspected that he was near the end.
I was thinking of Keith yesterday when I recorded this Justin Townes Earle song that Keith sang and taught to me. I love his version of it and would ask him to play “my song” when I was with him. He knew exactly the one I wanted to hear. I’ll carry his version with me, but I’m going to have to play my own now as Keith died this morning.
I’m thinking of Keith, all his family, and many of his friends this afternoon. Keith was beloved by all of them and I know they are all hurting terribly.
This song’s for you, Keith. Thank you for being my friend.
“Slippin’ and Slidin’” by Justin Townes Earle, played by Chris Durman while thinking about Keith White, 5/29/2023

[@theotis111]

Keith White was a good guy , loved his music , and loved his family

[@chrisdurman4695]

He was, indeed, a very good guy. I’m really going to miss him.

[@TennesseeJed]

Please send Steve my condolences. I hate to see Keith go.

[@chrisdurman4695]

I will, buddy. I hate to see him go, too. He was a mighty good one.