One bad deed
He was one of the most influential pop songwriters and producers of his, or any, generation; he invented the wall of sound
; and he worked with some of the most iconic artists in pop music history. He was also convicted of second degree murder.
On his death, it appears that, to the BBC at least, Phil Spector's single act is more noteworthy than his legacy.
Not at all judgemental, Auntie Beeb; eschewing sensationalism, as befits an authoritative and balanced paragon of the mainstream media. (rolleyes)
Marion Ramsey got off lightly in comparison.
But it does put me in mind of the following joke.
While backpacking through the highlands of Scotland, a tourist stopped at a pub for refreshment. The only people in there were the barman and an old man nursing a drink. The tourist ordered a pint of beer, and they sat in silence for a while.
Suddenly, the old man turned to him and said: You like this bar? I built this bar myself from the finest local wood. I gave it more love and care than my own child. Do they call me MacGregor the carpenter? No, they don't.
He returned to contemplating his glass.
After a few moments, he pointed out the window. You see that stone wall yonder? I built that wall with my bare hands. Found every stone, and placed them just so, through the rain and the cold. Do they call me MacGregor the builder? No, they don't.
Once again, he paused in silent thought.
Looking again at the tourist, he then nodded towards a painting on the wall. And you see that landscape, capturing the dimming of the evening sun over the loch? I painted that. Do they call me MacGregor the artist? No, they don't.
The old man lowered his head, and shook it sadly: But I fuck one lousy goat…
Funnily enough, the BBC later apologised for originally headlining the story as Talented but flawed producer Phil Spector dies aged 81
. It was later retitled to Pop producer jailed for murder dies at 81
, because the headline
did not meet our editorial standards
.
Which is surprising, since I wasn't aware that the BBC had any editorial standards worth meeting. Obviously, the dinky butthurts complained and the BBC grabbed its ankles.
The dinky butthurts were presumably not on patrol when, in 2015, Rebecca Jones simply noted:
Phil Spector is currently serving a prison sentence for murdering an actress in 2003.
Rebecca Jones, arts correspondent, BBC News
Without even naming her. For shame!
Shhh! If you don't tell them, I won't either. (secret)