Thursday, May 24, 2012

Mandrill Tribute To Hal Jackson

Mandrill Tribute To Hal Jackson
 
Hal Jackson was intimately associated with the career of Mandrill. He was at the helm at WBLS/WLIB in New York City when our third album, Composite Truth, hit the streets in the early 70's. Hal believed in the Wilson Brothers /Mandrill and supported us in every way. He relayed that spirit to his entire staff, including such world-class announcers like Frankie Crocker, Vaughn Harper, Vy Higgensen, Ken "Spider" Webb, G. Keith Alexander and so many others. This support contributed to a break out album in the US and abroad and garnered gold album status for Mandrill's Composite Truth including such hits as "Fencewalk" and "Hang Loose".
 
Mr. Jackson will be remembered as a close friend and mentor. He will also be looked to as an individual who took the bull by the horns and did it his way. He was the first Black radio announcer on network radio and was on the air for more than 70 years, The entrepreneurial example that he has set is indeed a blueprint for freedom and independence in this dog eat dog entertainment industry.
 
He will be truly missed but his spirit and legacy will live in our hearts and minds forever. We love you Hal and may you rest in peace.
 
Ric Wilson, MD
For the Wilson Brothers (Lou, Ric, Carlos & Wolf) of Mandrill 

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