It is with great regret to announce the sudden passing on December 31, 2018 of Dean Ford, aka Thomas McAleese, the former Marmalade lead vocalist of countless hit songs over the latter 60s and early 70s era, most notably the iconic ballad “Reflections Of My Life,” his co-write with Junior Campbell. That song lives in the hearts of many and was a soothing lament for many a Vietnam veteran. He had just recently released a solo double CD entitled This Scottish Heart, often stating “this is so exciting,” as the reviews poured in.
Fernando Perdomo, his fellow stage musician and producer of his previous CD, Feel My Heartbeat, recalls “Every vocal Dean did oozed with love and tenderness. I will miss his kindness and warmth. A joy to work with and an inspiration.” Dean was born on September 5, 1946.
“Years old when Pat and I went to see him singing with the Monarchs at the Barrowland Ballroom in Glasgow. Just his little guy with big ears and big hands, but from the moment he opened his mouth to sing Roy Orbison’s ‘In Dreams’, me, Pat, and the whole of Barrowland knew he was something special… He was an exceptional talent and I am privileged and proud to have performed with him, and to have written songs with him… some of which apparently still mean something, to many, all over the world. I loved him dearly” – Junior Campbell
I grew up in a household full of rock music, studied journalism in college, and then became a scientist.Although my science career has served me well, music has always played a major role in my life. I grew up reading "Creem" magazine; I play several musical instruments as a "hobby";and it seems a camera has always been in my hand. Now, I am combining what I love the most--music and photography--serving as editor of Rock At Night. I travel between the US and UK seeking my dream! My motto: life is short...no regrets. Chyrisse