Ames/Hayes/Spector. A KFWB commentary written and voiced by Christopher Ames that dealt with Phil Spector was published here last week. Johnny Hayes responded. Chris responded to Hayes’ response and now Johnny responds to Chris’ response:

“I was delightfully surprised Thursday when a considerable number of emails arrived here concerning my response to Mr. Christopher Ames LARP posting concerning Phil [Phillip] Spector. Friends and former co-workers alike wrote – some I had not been in contact with in fifteen to twenty rears.  I would like to share my email back to one of them . . .

Doug [Douglas Brown], how wonderful hearing from you! 

I find it very interesting that you have pulled out your Spector collection and are finding gems you had perhaps misplaced in your mind. People would be amazed at how many wonderful records they really love and are awed by, were Spector productions – and it is not commonly known he was linked to. Among my favorites are: Some Of Your Lovin’/Johnny Nash, Young Boy Blues/Ben E King & Black Pearl/Sonny Charles & the Checkmates Ltd. There are of course many, many more. A great visionary Phillip certainly was.  

I’m sure you noticed I intentionally stayed away from attaching blame in the shooting of that poor girl up at the Castle. I simply felt compelled to respond to KFWB’s Christopher Ames’ comments because I have had it with people who have never even known Phillip, kick him around like an ole tin can. Then, to go further and slam his songs and records; to lump Phillip’s life and accomplishments all together and then “burn him at the stake” – well that was more than I could take.  

Regrettably, in my haste, the draft I sent to Don Barrett had some key points omitted and there was a sentence in which a transitional word was left out. My omission questioned Mr. Ames objectivity in the whole matter. I’m not a good proof reader of my writings; I was writing on pure emotion. Yes I was angrier and frustrated at Mr. Ames, but I tried in earnest to keep my emotions in check. I must say I was impressed by Mr. Ames restraint in not attacking me for simply coming to Phillip’s aid at a time when he (Phil) could sure use a friend. Above all, I can still separate the man from his genius. Who doesn’t have flaws – myself included. 

I got a very touching email from John Newton [aka Johnny St. Thomas] on the subject, and I had not heard from him in 20 years. Many others wrote, Shaune Steele among them. Mike Daniels too was so supportive. Not one email made reference to Phillips guilt or innocence, because that’s not what the point of my posting was all about. All were however taken by the fact that I would stand up for a friend, come hell or high water. 

Spector’s music will outlive us all. BACK TO MONO, indeed! 

Again Doug, I think you are swell for writing . . . 

P. S.  Still not taking sides in the case, I’ll go out on a limb – I have a hunch the jurors will not come to an agreement, and it will end in a MISTRIAL,” ventured Johnny Hayes

---

Gear up for Halo® 3 and get a $25 Best Buy gift card. It’s our way of saying thanks for using Windows Live™. Get it now!