UP-CLOSE: “The Uncle Floyd Show” (1989)
I’m still saddened at the death of Uncle Floyd on January 22 at the age of 74. This most beloved New Jersey icon (from Paterson) hosted his own show from 1974 to 1998. He was a truly funny man, a caring individual who gave of his time and money to various charities over the years. He was always there for local bands. He had numerous reporters from the Aquarian Weekly on his show to talk music (although I did the show as Editor of Metal Shop in New York). Rock stars of all stripes lined up to make an appearance. Among the hip folks who watched his show were David Bowie, John Lennon and Iggy Pop. In fact, Bowie wrote a song for him that appeared on his 2002 Heathen album (“Slip Away”). It not only mentions Uncle Floyd by name but two of his puppets, Oogie and Bones. Floyd’s appearance in our The Jersey Sound documentary was one of the doc’s highlights. Man, could he play piano! His pianistics have been overlooked but the man could really play. Check out The Hot 100 this issue (he’s #10) or the documentary for proof.