Though we both hailed from Ohio, I never knew Bud Shank, but when I was in grade school he got me in trouble. It all had to do with a flute solo of his, a contribution of dreamy coolness that helped make California Dreamin’ (it’s the song’s break) a hit for the Mamas and the Papas. In 1965 that song spilled out of cars, elevators, and my mom’s kitchen radio; I loved it so much I memorized that flute solo and whistled it constantly. Bad boy: in the pious house I grew up in, no whistling was aloud (what’s up with that rule anyway? It seems an affront to a certain generation—reader’s comments welcome). When I let loose with the tune one day, my father didn’t appreciate my practiced facility or Shank’s sinuous melody and he let me have it.
Undone by a flute solo: how many 9 year-olds can cop to that? It was worth it—thanks, Mr. Shank. RIP.