Cyril Larry Barrett

1955 - 2014

Cyril Larry Barrett

The world lost a shining star September 1st when Cyril (Larry) Barrett passed away in Tucson, AZ. Singer, Songwriter, Craftsman, Bar Manager there was a light in everything he endeavored. Cyril was born April 25th 1955 in Pocatello, Idaho. To Cyril (Barry) and Corinne Barrett. He served in the Army being stationed at Garmish, Germany. During his time in the Army he trained as a medic and was a ski patrolman at the Edelweiss Lodge and Resort the Armed forces recreation center. Ending up in Boise, Idaho he started in earnest to play guitar and write songs. He made his way to Seattle in 1983 where he really began to hone his music. With his ability he was asked to tour Europe with The Walkabouts and when he came back he had a recording contract with Glitterhouse Records. He recorded his debut album "Flowers" and went back to Europe to tour on his own. Other albums followed "Beyond The Mississippi" "Porch Song Singer" and "The Big Slowdown". It was during this time he was employed as a bar manager at Hattie's Hat, a job the allowed him to travel and record. When he left Seattle he announced that he never liked the name Larry and took his father's name Cyril. Landing in Tucson AZ he was quickly adopted by the music scene there. Being deeply affected by the number of deaths-due to exposure-of people trying to come to America on foot through the desert he got involved with the group No More Deaths, a Presbyterian organization. Cyril was loved by so many and his songs will be sung through the ages. He is survived by his Father Cyril, sisters Helen and Rosann, brothers Ron and Bob.

There is a memorial in Tucson Sept 14th at Che's Lounge. In Seattle, there will be a memorial on Sept 24th at Hattie's Hat.

For information on the Cyril CD project go to www.cyrilbarrett.com. Please come and raise a glass to one of the good ones! photo by Jesse Sykes.