Dan,
I first became aware of you and your music when I was a college student at
the University of Miami. I still remember the night you appeared on campus and
my friends and I left the patio both moved by your music and hooked.
Some 30 years later, I still listen to your music and have turned my children
on to you. "Part of the Plan" was our anthem.
I only have positive thoughts and wishes for you and your family and will add
you to my prayer list. You see my sister and mom also have cancer, and the
power of prayer is a strong one.
Keep strong and know that there are many people praying for you.
When I found this site, I knew I had to send a note! What your music has meant to me is
something that is hard to put into words. I've been a fan since the beginning and had the
privilege of seeing you live at the Oakdale in Wallingford, CT a few years back. I
brought my daughter with me and she's as big a fan as I am. Yesterday she went on her
first job interview, and she stopped by to ask if she could borrow a couple of your CDs I
have to listen to, so she could stay calm. My best wishes to you and Jean, you are in my
thoughts and prayers. God speed --- Christy, Southington CT
Dan,
I've enjoyed your music since the 70's. Your music and lyrics have giving
me many happy moments. Best wishes for a full recovery. You are in my
thoughts and prayers. Please come back to Salt Lake City and do some
bluegrass music for us! Take care. ~
Wayne D. Sowers
Dear Dan,
I'm so pleased to have this opportunity to wish you and your family well as you begin to regain your health. In 1984 I was living in Arkansas and going through a divorce and yes, I know you've heard this stuff a million times, but-- your music was a gift I can never repay you. Now over 20 years later, I pulled all of my cassette tapes out of the closet to toss and replace with CD versions, and the only ones I kept were yours. "My God", I though," where has Dan Fogelberg been all these years?" After listening to my tapes over and over again this week, I was compelled to thank you for your kindness and your gift of your beautiful music and lyrics that continue to astound me. I was saddened to learn the news of your illness, and now you will be added to my positive thoughts and prayers. God love you. Get well and make some more beautiful music for all of us that love you.
~ Stephanie Taylor,
Albany, Oregon
Dan,
I had a dream about you last night. You were sitting atop a mountain
starring into the sunset guitar in hand. The colors of the sky surrounded
you. You and the sky became one almost like a painting as I looked upon you
at a distance. I was so happy to see that you were healthy, healing and
strong.
Please know that you are in my prayers always...just as your music was with
me through 16 surgeries and two bouts of cancer. Your music continues to be
a source of much happiness in my life.
Blessings to you and Jean. ~
Catherine Marie Coleman
Hi Dan,
Like thousands others I wish you the very best. I've been following your situation on the web and hope that you find comfort in the prayers and thoughts of your many fans. I'm 47 and began having regular prostate exams about 5 years ago when an older gentleman who had a locker next to mine recounted the story of a man my age who, unfortunately, faced much of what you are now facing. When I jokingly resisted citing the unpleasantness of the digital exam he did not laugh but looked me straight in the eye and said "a minute or two is worth your life." Because of his stern concern it motivated me to follow his advice. I am very pleased that you are also getting this message out.
Very best and I hope to see you in a concert soon - my wife and I have unbelievable memories of your concerts in Utah. ~
Kevin
Dan: I recently spent approximately 18 months recovering from major heart surgery and have been out of the loop regarding the events of your life. I have listened to your songs since 1972; I used to demonstrate Pioneer speakers at a Hi-Fi store playing "To The Morning". I've seen you in concert a dozen times, starting with your 1974 show at the War Memorial Auditorium in Nashville, Tennessee. Tickets were about $5 and you played almost three hours. You have contributed so much to my life-I only wish you good things in yours. If you choose to never play another note of music, please know that your days have been well spent. ~ Phil Fuson, Franklin, TN
Always in my prayers, forever in my thoughts, please stay on the road to
recovery. Health and happiness to you ~ PhyllisWB
Dan, I have enjoyed your music for many decades and was saddened to hear of your illness, now almost 2 years ago. I continue to pray for your health and frequently visit your website for continued good news on your progress. You are surely missed in the music world and I hope someday you can return to the stage. Know that your music will live on forever in our hearts. All the best to you and your wife Jean. ~ Sue in Connecticut.
I don't know you or your family personally. I just wanted to send my best wishes, let you know I will include your family in my prayers, and say "Thank You!" Your music has given me peace throughout the years. I first heard your music in 1976, while living on my own as a senior in high school at Crystal Lake, IL. I have & still do continue to listen to your songs. They bring me peace, put things in perspective, and bring hope! If anyone deserves to capture an angel, it's you Mr. Fogelberg. Thank you for sharing your music...I look forward to hearing more!! Thank you to the hosts of this site! Best wishes to ALL!! You're in my prayers! ~ Julie - Cathedral City, CA
Dan, You have no idea the lives you have touched with your music. The love that emanates from your words and the music itself is amazing, and will continue for years to come. My children are already fans of yours, and I hope they will grow to adults recognizing the messages your songs bring to life. My best to you---you will never be forgotten to so many!!!!! ~ Michele Bailey - Freeburg IL
I have been thinking of you ever since I heard that you were sick. Your music and concerts are so etched in my mind. I own every album (CD) that you have recorded. I cannot think of my high school or college days, without your music as it's backdrop. I wish you all the best, and when you are healthy and back on the road, I will be there to cheer you on. I will look forward to that day. Be well, and get better. ~ Shari Bross.
When I was young I listened to your songs and pictured you running into your old lover at the grocery store. I cried as you sang about your father in "The Leader Of The Band". I imagined Colorado long before I ever moved here. Your lyrics have painted many beautiful pictures in my mind, you are a masterful storyteller. I hope you are doing well. ~ Kathy
Your music found me at Southern Illinois University in 1978....It has brought me great light over the years. I'm one of your greatest fans, and have seen you in many venues. I work in the field of Cancer in the world of Complementary Therapies and know you must have found great resources for your journey along the way. I pray for your coping and your strength for those around you that love you as you continue working with what Cancer brings to one's life...all of the best to you in health and faith, and thank you for sharing your gifts with all of us! ~ Donna
May you know Christ, the Spirit Counselor who makes war unnecessary. Who makes our bodies peacefully ward off illness and bloodshed, and who brings peace to the souls of those tormented by the false prophets. ~ Charles Albertson
I'd like to say that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. You've been my musical companion for 26 years or so. It's funny how an artist can touch and inspire people...or more importantly, how an artist can actually be there for comfort. Your songs have been with me at some of my best moments and at some of my worst...but they've always been there. I've had the privilege to see you in concert three times: Once in Hawaii and twice in Lake Tahoe. The last time I saw you was in 2003 in South Lake and it was my first date with Serita. I must have made a good first impression bringing her to your concert because she's now my wife and we couldn't be happier. I want you to know that what I love most about your music is the intellect behind the lyrics. There's such a bright mind in there and it really comes out in songs like "Nexus" and "In the Passage." I can't tell you how upsetting it is to know you're in such a life threatening position. From your end you have thousands of fans, but you have to understand, for many people, there's only one you and we don't want to lose you. I only have one favorite performer. Yes, it's a strange relationship isn't it. And, life is a funny thing. There are no guarantees and we never know what's going to happen. I hope you get better and the doctors find a way to knock out the cancer. I'll be praying for you. Sincerely ~ Joe
My prayers and thoughts are with you Dan. I met you a couple of times back when your father was the band leader at my school PCHS. He was much loved and respected. Wanted to let you know you are also.Love and prayers and best wishes to you and your loved ones. ~ Connie
Dan: I was shocked when I recently heard about your illness. I will immediately put you on my daily prayer list, which is the least I can do for someone who has added so much color and pleasure to my life. For more than 15 years, I traveled across the U.S. as a musician, mostly playing acoustic gigs at seaside resorts, bars, and universities. Although I couldn't cover most of your songs due to your ridiculous vocal range (you made me sound like an idiot a few times...), I did do "Leader of the Band," "Make Love Stay," "Dancing Shoes," "Go Down Easy," and "Once upon a Time." People always loved these songs and inevitably requested other Fogelberg songs. I loved playing them, and loved listening to them even more. My friend, you have a rare talent, to which millions of album sales can attest. I've always considered you to be a musician's musician, in the company of folks like James Taylor, Sting, and Pat Matheny, all of whom I hold in the highest regard. I truly believe the world would be a better place if we could somehow replace the mindless drivel of much of today's top 40 with the music of real players like yourself, who not only entertain, but impart real musical and literary value. God bless you and your work. Keep positive thoughts and be encouraged by the knowledge that you are in the prayers of many. ~ Mark E. Johnson, Murfreesboro, TN
Dear Dan: I was saddened to hear that you have been suffering, and am very glad to learn of the improvement! My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I remember seeing your concert back in 1974 (I think) as back up for the Eagles. Ever since then I have been hooked and still cherish my old vinyl albums of yours. Of course, I updated them all with CD's and thus have been listening to your music for over 30 years. I couldn't count how many people I introduced to your music. My favorite song is still "Below the Surface", but my favorite album is Home Free. I remember in college falling asleep to that album on the turntable and it kept replaying all night long. I still remember where the skips were! I hope you will have the strength to record or even tour again, as the world surely misses your passionate lyrics and unique style. Best wishes! ~ Barbara Exter
Dan, Sending thoughts of love and healing. Thank you for sharing your gifts and for touching my life. With love and prayers ~ Lisa
Mr. Fogelberg, I am 38 years old. I started listening to your music when my older sister and her boyfriend played a tape of yours all the time. I often tagged along with them, to the beach and to the movies for example, to their dismay probably. In any case, I "inherited" your tape. I'm sure they still wonder what happened to it. Your music is enchanting. I drift away to some other place while listening. Your voice and lyrics calm my soul. I haven't stopped listening since sitting in the back seat of the car with my sister and her boyfriend in front. I've had the privilege of hearing you sing live, once in Buffalo, once in Cincinnati, and once in Canadaigua. I didn't have to watch a screen to see you. Instead, you were just rows in front of me. I brought my wife the last two times. My wife became a fan immediately.
I am a urologist in Buffalo. As you know, as a urologist, I deal with prostate cancer all the time. It's one of the hard parts of my job. When I operate I often play your music in the operating room. It's soothing to me and likely even to the patient who's asleep. I take all the help I can get and your music fits the bill. I'm no longer a kid and I'm still listening. Your music has helped me probably as much as your team of doctors has helped you. I wish you and your family all the best. I always tell my patients to "take the bull by the horns and fight hard". I'm looking forward to seeing you in Buffalo once again. I wish I could help you as much as your music has helped me. ~ James
It is my prayer that our Creator's mercy shines on you all the hours of your days. Our prayer order, Daughters of the King, prays for you every day as does our parish in the Daily Office gatherings. We will keep you and yours in our hearts and hold you close. May you heal through His Grace and be well to sing on and on and on. ~ Susan
I love O'Keefe, the sound of an acoustical guitar, the beat of an indian drum, the high road. Your music wove in and out of it all. Many good thoughts to you!
Dear Dan and Jean, My twin sister (identical), Diana and I have listened to Dan's music since the 70's as we were coming of age as young women. Diana was the one who introduced me to your music, Dan, and I have been a fan ever since. It has become an integral part of our lives, even to the point of Diana flying out to Houston to visit me (from Orange County, California, our hometown), but to primarily attend your concert here at either Jones hall or the Wortham center (in Houston), I can't remember which, and my husband, a photographer was there to take your photo at the beginning of the concert (he had a special pass)...after that, every time you visited the Woodlands Pavilion (we live in The Woodlands, now), I attended your concert, sometimes with my husband, and sometimes alone...but I always called my sister on my cell phone so she could hear the first song you sang along with me. We (my husband and I) even flew out to Orange County once to attend a concert with my sister Diana to see you at Irvine Meadows. Anyway, when we heard of your illness (at the first announcement), we were concerned, saddened, and, of course, hope for you to beat this thing. Dan, you are an amazing human being, and, even though we do not know you personally, both my sister, Diana and I feel very deeply for your health and well being, and wish the strongest and warmest thoughts for you and your family. All our love and prayers ~ DeVona and Diana
Just listening to "Full Circle" and thought I'd check in on Dan's progress. Dan is one artist that I will buy the album without hearing any track and know I will like it!! Dan: thanks for the hours of pleasurable listening...all the best to you!! ~ Brad Duncan
Hi Dan, I just found out about your illness, and I wanted to just drop a quick note to let you know I will keep you and your family in my prayers. I cannot fully know what you are going through, and this only by the Grace of God. But I have experienced other things which have taught me just how fragile life can truly be. I have also learned the importance of treasuring each and every second we have here, and to enjoy the company of those we love and who love us.
Certainly, you have provided for all to enjoy - a piece of your heart and soul and existence. It has certainly been a privilege to have listened to your music over the years, and to have enjoyed your sound and thoughts not only as a listener, but as a fellow musician and songwriter. It has been a true privilege for me to have performed to audiences (although considerably smaller than those you have performed for) over the years. The greatest gift I have received however, is the opportunity to play for myself - to have expressed my deepest thoughts and feelings through song. It is my hope you have experienced that same feeling, for it is my belief this is the truest intimacy - to be able to interact with ones self, and express those moments for others to experience too. You have done this well. So, I wish for you and your family the very best of God's Blessings, and I hope you have a speedy recovery from your illness, or as my Grandma used to say - "What ails ya." Best wishes and Peace.
~ Rick Legg, Canton, Michigan
My name is Maggie and I'm from St. Louis, Missouri. My Mom has been a life-long fan of yours and has made me one, too. We love listening to your music and know all the words by heart. Your music has played is a big part of our lives and you are in our thoughts and prayers. Best wishes always!
Hi Dan, I have followed you since 1974! You and your music were such a huge part of growing up in Tennessee, I could not have made it through those teenage years without your music. I'm in my 40's and still have my collection of albums and 45's...can you believe it? I remember the first time I heard "Part of the Plan", I was in high school and knew right away that I wanted to study guitar, which I did...I did not turn out to be a studio musician but your music encouraged me to have a 20 year career in radio which allowed me to have the time of my life. My life theme song since the first time I heard it is "Part of the Plan". "Await your arrival with simple survival". that song still applies to my life today. I retired from radio only a couple of years ago, but nothing in my office gets done until we place your Greatest Hits in the cd player and start singing along to "Part of the Plan". I was sad and truly shocked to hear about your sickness, please know that through your music and lyrics you have touched and healed more hearts and souls than you will ever know. Blessings to both you and your wife, you will be forever in our thoughts. ~ J. Augustus
Dan, May God grace you with the gift of healing so that you may once again be HIS instrument that celebrates the beauty of this world through your words and music. Peace and Love ~ Tony and Angie, Oregon, OH
Dear Dan, I was shocked to say the least of the passing of Mike Botts. I know you and he had an very enjoyable experience and for those who don't know it I think you always found him to be the one drummer you could always follow and never get left back at the station.. I wish you would keep us updated on your "battle" and from a man who has battled the big "L" and is now cancer free I send my deepest wishes for the same for you. Last year I got a PSA done at the urgency of Mike and was scared for a bit when it came back high and now I get regular test just to keep one step ahead. I never would have even gotten tested at my age (51) had it not been for Mike and his insistence that I get it done NOW! Just remember that the hearts and prayers of those around the globe are always there and godspeed to a full recovery! Sincerely ~ Wil Engle
Dan: Even though we've never actually met (though we came close) you were my first college crush. I've been listening and loving your music for 32 years. With all the pleasure that you have provided to millions over several generations, I have to believe that with all you've given you are certainly due the very best. I'll keep you in my thoughts and prayers, hoping for yet another opportunity to see you again. You've been such a large part of my life with your music being the backdrop, I know that your music has enriched my life, and you deserve the very best. Thinking back, I was even at the Derby the year that you performed "Run for the Roses". I hope for you the very best. ~ Holly
Dear Mr. Dan, I was thrilled to hear that you are in remission and feel like a human being again. I am so thankful to the Lord for answering my prayers for you and your wife. I pray that He will continue to heal and bless you both. If any set backs come remember to keep looking up and know that the Lord is with you and wants you healthy and happy. I look forward to the time when you will return to the recording studio and stage. All my best to you and your wife. I will continue to hold you up in prayer. Love in Christ. ~ Debbie Falco Manitou Sps. Co.
Dear Dan and Jean, Just checking in to let you know that I think of you often and wonder how you are doing. I hope that things are going well for you and you are beating your cancer. You are still in my prayers and on my CD player every day. If you feel like it, please let your fans know how you are doing. We look forward to hearing some good news! Love to all ~ Angela in Knoxville
Dan: I just wanted to take the time to express my thoughts to wish you the absolute best. I'm thrilled to hear that things are improving and hope that it continues. You have been such a large part of my life, following your career since college, 1974. I've seen you live about ten times. The last time was a couple of years ago in Vevay Indiana. It was a small arena and was great to be able to see you in a more intimate setting. You were actually sitting a few tables away from us in the restaurant, along side the large salt water aquarium. I wanted to approach you, but decided that you deserved your privacy and had already given me more pleasure with your music than I could ever imagine. I have chronic renal failure, so I understand the effects of a long term illness. Hopefully, our paths may cross again.~ Holly Ziegenhardt
Dear Dan - I wish you all the best with your recovery. Your music has brought me a lot of pleasure over the years. I have been a fan since "The Innocent Age". As I write this now I am listening to "Leader of the Band". I have always loved it. Living here in the UK, I have to rely mainly on getting your work through mail order etc but it has been worth every effort. You have been a part of my life for 25 years now, God bless you and your family and thank you for the music. Please get well soon.
Hi Dan; I hope that you are recovering and doing well. It's been a long time. Wish you nothing but wellness and happiness. Still some very fond memories with "Frankie and the Aliens" for me. peace and joy always ~ Tino Gonzales
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