If you grew up in North Bay and had even a fleeting interest in music, especially rock n' roll, then you probably crossed paths with Barry Green. Sad news came Tuesday, as we learned that Green has passed away after a battle with cancer. He was 69.
Green had an encyclopedic knowledge of music of all genres, and nothing pleased him more than opening a youngster's ears to something they had never heard before. Many were known to enter Records on Wheels, and trusting Barry's good taste, let him pick which album they would purchase.
Barry is the second member of the Trout Lake Monsters to pass away this year, as drummer Steve Clarke succumbed to a brain tumour earlier in 2016. Barry also played in The Buffaloes.
Barry's soft manner of speaking and gentle nature belied his considerable ability to expertly play a variety of musical instruments.
Tributes have flooded social media today as North Bayites celebrate the life of Barry Green, who touched an incredible number of lives through music.
"So sad to hear that Barry Green has passed away. I really considered him a friend, from all the time I spent talking music and listening to tunes with him at Records on Wheels, as well as seeing him perform in his various bands over the years. North Bay has lost a true legend and one of the nicest people you could ever meet," wrote Miles MacMillan, who has spent years in the local music scene.
Via Facebook, Tyson Carlson wrote: "Rest in peace, Barry Green. In a time before (the) internet you were my connection to a whole world full of music waiting to be discovered. You always ordered me the good stuff," saying that he often visited Barry at the record shop to hear that "sweet friendly soft voice."
Tony Loeffen, a local entrepreneur, tells of seeing Barry playing with his band 20 plus years ago. "I couldn't believe the guy I bought albums off since I could remember was also in a band. I just didn't think one guy could be so cool."
BayToday will update this story as funeral arrangements and more details become available.
