The impulse to recount Billy stories was/is widespread. Initial responses below.It's a more ordinary, appropriate, boring world now. But less so since he made a huge positive contribution to so many lives, mine included.
Sad news. What a fun, sweet, complicated guy. Unique dance moves..! RT @SamSifton Billy Ruane died last night, 52. http://t.co/o3FRFdo
I remember when I was leaving Boston he showed up at Ginza after hours to give me a fistful of Roger Miller CDs.
I have a desert island list of films he recommended--all melancholy arthouse. This he scrawled out after some wild punk show of course.
I remember Billy Ruane showing up onstage at Helldorado, early days, having just seen Cocksucker Blues and regaling us with his cover version I remember him eating whole meals during matinees at Brattle in the 80's. #BillyRuane #BillyRuane That DANCE MOVE. I remember when audience was sittting on the floor like hippies. Only he was dancing. Trenchcoat. Beer Bottle.
#BillyRuane Fuck. No one expected that guy to live forever when he was in his 30's but he looked great as a 50 yr old guy so just perhaps..
Billy Ruane invades this video halfway through. DISRUPTIVE. ENTHUSIAST. http://bit.ly /c4lukw
