If you know Rockford music, if you have been out on "the scene," if you love your vinyl and LOVE LOCAL MUSIC...You've AT LEAST heard the name Mark Ricotta.

With Mark's passing, we turn to our guy Kevin McCarthy for his words and thoughts:

It is with a heavy heart that we inform you of Mark’s passing this weekend. Here is a photo of Mark enjoying the Attitudes with his brother Dave at a local gig.
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Mark consistently was out there supporting live music ever since I knew him starting 42 years ago. Mark will leave a huge void in the Rockford music scene. Our love and sympathy go out to the Ricotta family and the talented individuals at ROCKFORD VINYL & MUSIC NEWS. We LOVE YOU Mark.
It seems appropriate to use some lyrics to soothe the soul at this sad time. Here are some musical lyrics and thoughts that have run through my mind this past couple of days in remembrance of Mark.
Mark, it seems like “the day the music died” and we hope you are “Free as a Bird.” “Tears in Heaven” for “a new angel.” “Miss you already.
“See you in heaven.” “And it seems to me you lived your life Like a candle in the wind.”
“Until we meet again my friend.”
“And if I say - I really knew you well - What would your answer be? If you were here today.”
“He Sleeps with Angels.”
“When I die…Gonna go to the place that's the best…Goin' up to the spirit in the sky.”
“If you believe in forever, then life is just a one-night stand. If there's a rock and roll heaven, Well you know they've got a hell of a band.”
“Shine On” Mark and enjoy the “Great Gigs in the Sky.”  - Kevin McCarthy
Rest in Peace, Mark.

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