With a name like that, there’s no need for a longer title. Clay is a friend of mine. And I am proud of that because Clay was friends with Jimi Hendrix and Janis Joplin!
A lot of people know Clay online as a marketer, website developer, and all around great guy. What most people don’t know is Clay was one of the best piano mercenaries you could hire. He tickled the keys like nobody’s business. I would give anything to go back in time to see one (or all) of his shows with some of the greatest musicians and rock stars in history.
Another thing most people don’t know is why everyone talks about Clay and the piano in the past tense. This is because Clay’s been suffering with MS for years. He’s long past being able to control his body well enough to jam on the piano like he used to.
Think about that for a moment.
The one thing you do professionally – the one thing you love more than almost anything else, is taken away from you by a disgusting, evil disease we should have a cure for by now. I’m a drummer. Not professionally. But it would still shake me to the core to wake up one day unable to play. One of the reasons I admire Clay is he’s never shown any bitterness or anger to me about it.
I’m sure there are times he’d like to smash something, but Clay isn’t really that kind of guy. He’s taken his health issues with the courage and strength I am not sure I could match if I were in his situation. His sense of humor and grace is amazing and inspiring to me.
It’s been awhile since I’ve publicly thanked Clay for what he’s taught me about life dealing out some serious lemons and how one should try to handle what life gives (or takes away from) you.
So, thanks piano man!
If you’d like to learn more about Clay, check out his site: Clay Cotton. He’s also on Twitter: @claycotton
You can purchase one of Clay’s CDs (Highly recommended for the music alone!)
Want to hear what Clay’s piano playing was like?
Check this salvaged video Clay found of himself back in the day:
I wasn’t kidding when I said he was amazing!
The other reason I am writing this post is to ask those who are inspired by Clay’s story or music to support him in any way you can. Twitter about him. Buy his CDs. Tell your friends about him. He needs our help because he’s more and more unable to do the daily work of an internet marketer due to his disease.
First it took away his piano. Now it is attacking his current livelihood and only source of income: online marketing. You will find things on Clay’s site you can do to help him and his wonderful, patient, full-time-caretaker and wife get through a really tough time in their lives.
Sometimes it is fulfilling to give support to a group that helps thousands of people. And sometimes it is really rewarding to know the person you are helping and that they deserve every bit of it.
Thanks again Clay for being who you are and for all the inspiration, laughs, and support you continue to give selflessly our whole community.
