I was still in high school when my mother introduced me to Carl for the first time back in the mid-eighties when they were playing at North County Fair. That's one of those great memories that stay with you as you grow older. One of the things I loved about him most was that he always remembered who I was over the years. I never had to "re-introduce" myself... he always greeted me with a big smile and a hello. I even remember when I was in college on the East Coast and Carl called me to let me know that Fattburger was going to be playing at the Capital Jazz Festival and would I like to go backstage? WOW!!!! I didn't even know he realized I was in the area. How did he do that :-) Or when they were playing up in the Bay Area a few years back and once again the call came...You wanna hang backstage? Carl and the music he made was a HUGE part of my growing up...I will miss his spirit tremendously. Thanks for everything Carl.

- James, Escondido

A Wonderful Musician......
I enjoyed many an evening listenting to his wonderful music.
It took me to another place.
I know you are in heaven playing to another audience and still bringing JOY to everyone.
Thank you for all the joy you brought to me.
You will be missed :(

- Lynda, San Diego

His role down here is done
His word has touched us all.
He didn't need to stay
His spirit touched each one of us
Before he sailed away.
We all know we arrive on earth with special roles to fill, And he has fully played his part His music guides us still.
He had very special soul
He stayed but just awhile
So when you're feeling sad just listen with a smile.

- Elliott, San Diego

I attended Crawford High School with some great musicians...Carl Evans Jr, Hollis Gentry and Nathan East. They had a group called Power and played at our Afterprom (Class of 74). Can you imagine the music being played in heaven with Hollis and Carl? Carl was one of the nicest guys you could ever met. I saw Fattburger perform last summer at the park in Chula Vista and Carl will be missed. Thanks to 98.1 for the tribute this morning. God bless the family.

- Kim, San Diego

I have know Carl since High School and when he played with Hollis Gentry, I know God opened his gates and called Carl Home and he and Hollis and all the great musicians are Jamming right now. My heart goes out to the Evans family, my God them the strength to know that Carl is no longer suffering and that they know he is at rest.

- Dovie, South East San Diego

Carl and I grew up together and went to St. Rita's Catholic Church and School from Kindergarten to the Eight Grade. Carl and I have stayed friends all our lives. I visited with him during his last surgery. Carl was a genuine friend to me and to mankind as a whole. His gentle heart and great music will never be far from my thoughts. I miss you Carl.

- Dan, San Diego

Carl and I grew up just doors apart. As kids growing up, I have fond memories of his Carl, his Dad and brother Michael playing jazz together at the house. As a young kid back then, I knew there was something very special not only about Carl as a musician but the entire Evans family. It has been an honor to have been able to witness his career blossom from those days as little kids playing our instruments in the back yard, to the most amazing high school jazz band (Crawford High) ever assembled, to the Power days with Nathan, Hollis and Skip, into his professional career and to his own band Fattburger. Anyone who has every been touched by Carl’s “famous” humor, his kindness, care and love knows that we have lost one of San Diego’s greatest sons. He will not only be remembered as one of San Diego’s greatest musicians but as one of it’s best loved citizens. I’m going to miss a life long friend very much as I know many others will.

- Danny, San Diego

Great musician, with a uplifting spirt that touch all who know him, a sprit that is flying high in heaven with our Lord...... I will miss much......

- Tommy, Chula Vista

First of all I just want to say I love you guys. I'm a fan that listens to you all every morning during my commute to work, then on the internet when I get to the office. I think it is so cool what you did earlier them morning playing the music of Fatburger featuring Carl Evans. I met him through a mutual friend -Cecilia East who is the sister of Marcel, Nathan and Jamey East. I was able to hear Carl play with Fatburger and the East brothers many times for family events at the Easts' home when their family lived in the Eastlake area. I feel very blessed to know the East family and to have known Carl. He was a wonderful and talented person who we will miss, but that God his music will be with us forever thanks to 98.1 

- Peace always,  Sylvia :)

Hello to all. I was introduced to Carl a year and a half ago through his daughter. Since that time I discovered more than a musician. It turns out that he was a deeply intellegent, emotional, and seriously funny guy. One of the things that made him special was that he was not afraid to share his wealth of knowledge and experiences with others. In addition, he always knew how to bring positivity and laughter to otherwise negative situations. With that said, you know that he was good for a great story! and boy did I get an ear-full of them!! He would talk about his many tours, dreams, times with Stevie(wonder), respect for Nathan East, childhood memories of Hollis Gentry, and his Crawford High School memories. He explained to me that though he was a top musician, he would sacrifice some long term tours because he was intent on being closer to his family of whom he was deeply bonded with. Did I mention he loved McDonald's (McGriddles)? lol. Yes there were many musical conversatins in the morning over that and a nice cup or coffee. He was also a true scholar of Jazz music. Getting up early in the morning to brush up on old material or create something new. He had a fondness for sports (circa 1970's). And was eagerly willing to match up his 5 greatest players against yours! There is not a placed that I've traveled where there has not been someone inspired by this man. He will be truely missed by many. He is a man who has influenced generations and helped usher in a new era of Jazz music. I am eternally grateful.

- Jaz, San Diego

I'm a Crawford Alumni('76), who was touch (like many) by the music majestry of Carl, Hollis(Gentry) & Nathan(East) (they were 2-3 years ahead of me). Marcel(East)& I were in the same year. It was an honor just to attend the same school these master musicians attended. I was very sadden when I heard the loss of Hollis, and am sadden again to hear the loss of Carl. I pray that GOD bless & comfort his family, and that his memories are forever cherished. And thank you Smooth Jazz - 98.1, for keeping the music flowing.

- P'Gail, San Diego

I loved Fattburger from their very beginnings. Back in the day, I would listen to them with friends at the different local bars. I was lucky enough to meet Carl and his band including the late Hollis Gentry. My friend wrote lyrics for Hollis and Al Jarreau. He was so kind and a happy character to speak to. What a talent! He will trully be missed. I'll believe that he and Hollis are jammin in heaven.

- Jean, La Mesa

Fattburger is one of the bands that got me in to the Smooth Jazz genre back in the mid to late 90s. From the self-titled debut in 1986 to Work to Do just 3 years ago, Fattburger went a long way. For a band that suspiciously sounds close to a certain hamburger chain down there in the 'ol SoCal, Fattburger has made some of the best Smooth Jazz music SJ has ever heard. Carl, I believe, hasn't been given enough credit for bringing Smooth Jazz to a wider audience along with Kenny G, The Ripps, and the other trendsetters of the 80s. Smooth Jazz has lost one of it's legends this week. R.I.P. Carl. Smooth Jazz shall never be the same.

- Kevin, Havelock, NC

YOU KNOW I HAVE BEEN STATIONED AND LIVING HERE IN GREAT SAN DIEGO FOR 22 YEARS AND I HAVE ALWAYS BEEN A LOYAL FATTBURGER FAN, I LOVE THIER SMOOTH JAZZ AND CARL EVANS HAS BEEN A PART OF MY RELAXATION AND EASY LIVING DAYS/NIGHTS. THANK YOU GOD BLESS.

- Eugene, Mira Mesa

My Family is sad when we heard the news. Carl was a warm, kind, and gentle gentleman. My Brother and I grew with Carl and Nathan and went to the same grade school and we went to UNI. We would play everyday around Euclid and Imperial. A little gang of Black, White, and Hispanic kids playing. Later when we were older we would play music. I remember the gang played our first gig at St. Rita's. Carl was at the piano, Nathan played the bass, my Brother played melody on the organ, Tommy played the drums, John played lead guitar, and I played the bongos. We knew Carl was good because he could play any musical instrument. We sounded tight. When Carl started FATTBURGER he would call me and tell me where they were playing. He would always come down at the break and try and get me to play with him. I would tell him I not that good. He would laugh and said,"I don't care, let's have fun". That night I did get up and play with Carl and the group. We could not stop smiling and later we would laugh. I'm going to miss that.

- Albert, San Diego

I love Fattburger. Their music is what smooth jazz is all about. I wish you could use their music for the morning show intro. It would be a great tribute to Carl and Hollis. God bless JC

- Johnny C., North County

I first met Carl back in 1986, when a friend invited me to see Fattburger at the P.B. Cafe. My friend, Ben Vargas, was taking sax lessons with Hollis Gentry and introduced me to him and Carl. Carl then asked if I was a player, and I said "yeah" and he then asked if I wanted to sit in. I sat in and apparently he liked what he heard and then asked if I needed a gig. I said "yeah" and he promptly gave me the phone numbers for Michael Kelleher [ZZajj & Reel-to-Real] and Greg Pardue [Forecast]. Carl is responsible for starting me out in the smooth jazz circles here in San Diego and I am forever in his debt for his support and friendship over the years. My last memory of Carl was him joking around in the hospital, cracking jokes and flirting with the nurses; the phone would ring and Carl would say "It's Halle Berry calling for me!" I honestly thought his good humor and spirit would help him recover. It's gonna be weird not being able to talk shop with him. Carl was more than a friend to the music community of San Diego, he was a big brother and mentor as well, and my sincerest condolences go out to his family, band, and fellow friends.

- Max, Chula Vista

I first met Carl during my freshman year at UCSD in 1971, (the early years of Third College), through Hollis Gentry III. I had put together a jazz group with Leonard Polk on drums, David Millard on saxello and flute, Hollis on alto and tenor sax, Tony Jacobs on bass, and, yours truly, Tony Barnwell on keyboards. I had a friend who was booking groups, and looking for a "soul/funk" band for various events on campus, (dances, noon concerts, etc.), and I asked Hollis if he knew of any groups; he told me about a group he was with called "The Rising Sons". That was Hollis on sax, Lenin Honor on trombone, Ron (last name escapes me) on trumpet, Skipper Ragsdale on drums, Bud Ward on Congas and Vocals, David East on Guitar, Nathan East on Bass, and a female vocalist named Anasa. I played a couple of gigs with them that year at UCSD, and a couple more after they'd changed the name to "Power". Both Carl and I were "in the running" for the keyboard position, which he he eventually won. From the very first time I heard him play, I had nothing but respect and admiration for Carl's talent, creativity, and incredible ability as a player. When I worked in La Jolla at Chuck's Steak House in 1976 with a group called "Acapriccio", (who started jazz at Chuck's), Carl would often come "sit in" and "wear me out!" During that period I learned as much as I possibly could from Carl; recording his advanced playing skills, as well as our one on one sessions from time to time, at either his house or mine. Throughout the years Carl always seemed to have a genuine appreciation of my skills as a player, singer, and an arranger. He and Charlotte Steele performed Nathan's "With All My Love" for my wedding in 1979. In 1982 it was a pleasure for me to have had the opportunity for us to work together when Carl became an addition to a group I was working with at that time: Ella Ruth Piggee (lead vocals), Mitch Manker (trumpet), Mark Hunter (bass), and Mark Smith (drums)...[Larry Himmel, incognito on bar stool at the Crossroads]; part of which, after some time with "The Bruce Cameron and Hollis Gentry Jazz Ensemble", eventually became "Fattburger". These are just a few of the major memories of my relationship with Carl Evans Jr, and consider myself blessed and fortunate to have known him well. I will always hold my friend, Carl, in great regard along with Hollis and Ella Ruth. I'll always love and miss them all. I am sad...yet I will rejoice in the knowledge and belief that Carl has now joined the plethora of many late, great musicians who are now eternal beloved members of God's band.

- Tony Barnwell, San Diego

 Another great one gone, and may he rest in peace. I must have listened to the song "One More Time" a hundred times. His gift of touch with Fattburger will forever live on...My deepest sympathy to his family,friends,and loyal listeners world wide. Goes to show us all as a reminder, we've got to make everyday count.

- Greg Fitzgerald Morning Show WJZZ, Atlanta

Carl was a good friend and caring musician, he helped record and produced my musical project in the 80's which recieved heavy radio play. Never wanting to charge a fee he just did out of the kindness of his heart and for the love of music. His brother and I played in a group for years so I was blessed to meet his whole family. His father who was so talented and soft spoken, his mother who swore we were related and his sister. One thing they all have in commen is thier smile, they all wore it well, and any one who knows the Evans family know's exactly what I'm talking about. It is amazing that some of the fund memories I share are the same shared by so many others, that just shows what a remarkable person and talent this man truly was....God Bless

- Francois, San Diego

Unlike many of you,i've only known Carl for a few years." From the first day we met, he made me feel as though we've always known each other".He made me laugh until my jaw locked-up.As I got to know him,I saw he was the kindest and the most inspirational man that I knew!! With all of the health issues he faced, Carl always kept a smile,a joke,and... just the greatest attitude.
For those of us that had the good fortune to have met Carl Evans Jr.,and laughed with him,and saw how he cared for others when they needed help,and heard his music,have got to know that " he's in heaven,jammin with GOD"
GOD Bless.

- Steve, SD Paradise Valley

My wife, Sherri and I were bigs fans of Carl Evans, Jr. As a keyboardist myself, I was in awe of Carl's skills. Musically speaking, he brought some interesting and unique voicings to the Fattburger sound. On a personal level, I met him several years ago at a Humphrey's Backstage Lounge performance. He was a kind hearted gentlemen and class act. Despite his prodigious talents, he was very humble and was quite flattered when I asked him to sign some Fattburger CDs. He never thought of himself as a legend, yet he was one of San Diego's greatest contributions to the world of contemporary jazz.

- John, Escondido

I am deeply sadden about the recent passing of a great innovator of jazz piano,Mr. Carl Evans. I have known Carl for a very long time. I am a keyboardist myself with the jazz group "The Johnson Project." Carl has shown me many jazz phrasings in improvisation. He will be greatly missed along with his bandmate Hollis Gentry. I use to play in a group way back in the day at Oceanview Park on Sundays in a "rival" band before Smooth Jazz became the standard phrase. Carl was in a group called POWER .with Nathan East ,Hollis Gentry,and Skip Ragsdale and a full horn section. They blew my band out the water. But I have grown to appreciate their music. Thanks to Carl, now I fully understand why that band sounded so good. Then came Fattburger. WOW. I will carry on for you my friend.

- Dave, Chula Vista

I worked with carl in a group called Grand Slam in the 70's. I originally met him through a band called Power. He was a huge talent and a very positive person. over the years i spoke with him just to stay in touch and he always was upbeat and made me laugh with his obseravations of life and current events. He will be missed not only as a musician and composer but as a wonderful human being and friend. The world is a lesser place without him.

- Lou, San Diego

Carl was such a kind person and a great musician. His playing and writing just put one big smile on my face. I"ll miss stories and long conversations with him! God Bless Carl Evans Jr.

- Rob and Amber, Vista 

My prayers go out to Carl's family, the band and his many friends. I started listening to Fattburger when they first came out and this band quickly became my favorite. Carl's work here on earth is done, but his legacy will always live on.

- Larry, Woodbridge, VA

I knew Carl when he was just Carl. We went to St Rita's together. First met him in the 1st grade. He truly belongs to San Diego. He was our treasure. Our Legend. Mr Jazz of San Diego if you ask me.We all loved him, and he loved everybody! And we still have his music.

- Frank, National City

He was my mentor. When I received my first record deal, he advised me what to look out for and how to use it. His music was a big influence on mine, and when people say my music resembles his, it is the biggest compliment I can receive! He created the San Diego sound and it is reflected in all musicians who live here. We played together, produced together, laughed together, and shared views on life and music. He was a great man, and the world owes him so much gratitude for gracing us with his amazing talent. He will be missed immensely! With much love and respect him and his family.

- Patrick Yandall, San Diego 

I was so sorry to hear about Carl's passing. My condolences to his family, friends, and many many fans, including myself. Trail of Tears has a whole new meaning for me now. Heaven has a new bandmember!!!!

- Barbara, San Marcos

I first listened to Fattburger on San Francisco's KKSF radio back in the late 80's. They pretty much shaped my love for Smooth Jazz through the years. It's sad that one of it's founding fathers has passed on. May Carl's legacy live on through Fattburger's music forever!!

- Mike James, Smooth Jazz and More Radio
Syracuse, New York

I recall meeting Carl Evans, Jr. when Fattburger came to town to play on a music festival sponsored by WJCD. The members of Fattburger are all very witty and charming, especially Carl. He had a sense of humor that just wouldn't quit. He was the quintessential comedian. He was also an unsurpassed improvisor on keyboards. I will really miss Carl, and I regret the fact that he had to deal with even the slightest health issues. But, I'll bet that he dealt with those issues in a good humored way. Carl and I were born in the same hospital (Portsmouth Naval Hospital) about five years apart. Rest in peace maestro, Carl Evans, Jr., another big part of what makes San Diego great.

- Larry, Norfolk, VA

Carl never had anything unkind to say about anyone, never. He has always had positive things to say about people. He never gave up on living or doing what he liked even though he had medical challenges. He was always glad to see his classmates from St. Rita's when we attended his concerts. He'll be missed by all his classmates. May he rest in peace.

- Diane and Lupe, San Diego

What memories of Carl and Hollis Gentry at Crawford High in '72. We were fortunate to hear them in concerts above the quad area and what a talent they were back then. Prayers go out to family and friends.  RIP Carl.

- Tony, La Mesa

Carl married into our large bi-coastal family and I have two memories about his generousity to share. When he was touring with Barry White in the Love Unlimited Orchestra, he called me to let me know that they would be in Philly and would I like to bring a friend to the concert and "hang out back stage" with him! Wow; we were thrilled to be "groupies" in the safe hands of family :-) Carl met us with a big smile and treated us to a once-in-a-lifetime event. The other memory is of the time my youngest daughter Angie and I flew to SD to visit our cousins. Carl & Lisa hosted us in their home and Lisa took us touring to see some of California, which included one of Carl's "gigs" on a lunch cruise. We will miss Carl and send our love and prayers to Rachel & Carl and their mom, my cousin Lisa.

- Cousin Pat, Wilmington, DE

We met Carl at a cookout at my mom's house in SE San Diego. He was a warm and funny guy. We subsequently learned he was also an immensely talented musician. We love Fattburger!! Our prayers and condolences to his family.

- Yvonne and Charles, Bay Area

I lived in the San Diego in the '80's, and used to hang out at the Old PB Cafe just to listen to Fattburger. They were an incredible live band. On occasion I would have short conversations with Carl during the breaks, asking about music, since I play keyboards. I last saw him play at Humphries, and had a chance to say hello, and he was again very gracious. He will be missed!

- Jim, Tucson, AZ

Let's all remember that Carl was truly a gift to all of us. We were blessed to have him as long as we did.
To some of us he has family and to others he was FATTBURGER. Either way lets remember he's Jammin with Hollis now. I'm sure they havin a blast. God Bless

- Nichole, Abe & Jani, San Diego 

My memories of Carl go way back to the 70's, we were members of a Band called The Soul Partol, Carl was a wonderful person with a very funny sense of HUMOR... He will truly be missed . On behalf of myself and the The Soul Patrol Band " thank you Carl for your friendship, and the wonderful Memories"..."God Speed Carl".
ACUNA MATATA,(NO WORRIES)!

- Shirley, Rancho San Diego 

CARL WAS LIKE MY BIG BROTHER WE WOULD CALL EACH OTHER AND TALK ABOUT HOW GOOD GOD IS TO US,AND HOW BLESS WE ARE TO DO WHAT WE DO ,AND THATS TO ENTERTAIN AND MAKE PEOPLE HAPPY WITH OUR MUSIC,WE ALL KNOW THAT GODS GIFT TO US ALL WAS THIS GREAT MAN. CARL WOULD SAY TO ME T-FOX" NEVER STOP WHAT YOUR DOING IN VEGAS AND ALWAYS BELIEVE IN YOUR DREAMS YOU WILL BE ONE OF THE GREATS OF LAS VEGAS, "ITS BEEN 9 YEARS AT THE TROPICANA HOTEL THE KEY TO THE CITY AND A DAY IN MY NAME HERE IN LV , ALL I CAN SAY IS THANK YOU MY BIG BROTHER FOR BELIEVING IN ME AND I LOVE YOU SO MUCH I WILL MISS YOU SO SO MUCH.
I KNOW THE BAND IN HEAVEN HAS 2 OF SAN DIEGO,S GREATS MY 2 BIG BROTHERS HOLLIS GENTRY & MR CARL EVANS JR , SO PLAY THOSE GOLDEN KEYS & SAXS MY BROTHERS YOU ARE NOW AT THE BEST GIG EVER.THE GIG OFGOD LOVE & PEACE . I LOVE YOU MAN!

 - T-Fox, Las Vegas Entertainer

I grew up in san diego playing in two bands with Carl,s brother the great drummer Iron Mike Evans !! New Joy and 7th Wonder !! Big Carl would sometimes stop by our gigs and rehershals ,bad mouth us,laugh at us ,but most of all offer us some tips, and encouragement!! It meant alot to us as young cats trying to become real professionls.Between Carl ,Nathan East ,Bud Ward,and others,I Became one of the best bass players in the city !! No, I take that back.One of the best entertainers in the city!!As I Prepared to move to L.A. in 1989,Carl and Mike were two of my greatest supporters.I Have also dropped Carls ,Nate,Hollis Gentry,and Chicago bassist Jason Schef names many times at concerts to get in free (smile).I,ll never forget my very first recording session.Circle Sound studio on El Cajon blvd.Guitarist Jeff Dixon leader of the 7th Wonder Band wrote a song called ,WE CAN SEE IT THROUGH TOGETHER.featuring Carl on keys and MIKE on drums.I only heard it the radio a couple of times,but I Was honored to have done my very first studio session with such great musicians!!My prayers go out to Iron Mike and the Evans family,all the great players in Fattbuger and in my town SAN DIEGO CALI.I won,t be able to make the service as I Have 5 gigs in L.A.this weekend!!GOD BLESS ART G. AND ALL OF YOU GREAT FOLKS AT THE BEST RADIO STATION IN THE WORLD!! KIFM !! MUCH LOVE.

- JOE-L BOND, Los Angeles 

I remember Carl from years ago when he played with Hollis Gentry at Monks in Mission Valley. Carl wrote the most BEAUTIFUL song about his daughter, the name of which, I believe, was "Angel on My Shoulder." Listening to him sing it gave me chills. I wish I had a copy of it now. I remember Carl as being one of the nicest people I have ever met and I will never forget his name. May he rest in peace.

- Cathy, San Diego

My husband, Eddie and Carl were boyhood friends who attended St. Rita's School. Eddie told me when Star Trek (the original) was popular, Carl loved Spock so much that he shaved off his eyebrows so he could look like him.

- Joyce, Chula Vista

Our family wanted to express our love for Carl, as he has been and will always be a very important part of our lives. He is now up their in the heavens jamming with the Almighty's band, cause God needed a talented keyboardist to accompany the mighty sax player, Hollis, because they are a perfect piece of the music world...The best are now in the best band ever: we love them dearly and know one day will be all be able to see and hear them together again .... We pray for comfort and peace and send our love to the Evans Family...

- Veronica Gentry-West & Gentry Family, San Diego

"My lovely and talented friend, Carl Evans Jr, has passed away after a lifelong struggle with diabetes. I believe that Carl was the nicest person I've ever met, without exception. Even-keeled in his temprament, joyous in his heart even though his soul was obviously too boyant for his flawed body, and a total natural when it came to music. He had two brilliant children, Rachel and Carl the 3rd.

You might have heard his name in the context of the smooth jazz group Fattburger, which he co-founded with another deceased friend of mine, Hollis Gentry lll. Long before those days, Carl, Hollis and Nathan East did me the honor of recruiting me and turning me onto jazz, helping me grow as a player and a human being along the way. I was only 12 years old when I was asked to fill in for their drummer at a rehearsal and then a gig. I have told this story here before, but I would like to repeat it now.

I knew nothing about jazz except that I thought you had to read music, so being a stone cold rocker I assumed that jazz was for wimps. But the gig paid something like $5 or $10 and I jumped at the opportunity to get paid.

Sitting in rehearsal, I realized that I was--for the first time in my life--the only white guy in the room. It was a fascinating moment for me. The cadence of their language sounded like music, and their obvious comraderie was very appealing (they had grown up playing together in church). Their musicianship was huge, far more advanced than mine, at least harmonically. They chose a song--The Creator, by Pharaoh Sanders--and suddenly Hollis started counting it off. I stopped him and said "I don't know this song at all--what do I play?" Hollis looked at me and smiled and said in his already deep voice at 15 "This is jazz, man--you just listen and then play what you feel."

Those wise words probably jumpstarted puberty for me. We launched into the song and played straight through for what seemed like a 30 minute jam. There were nothing but smiles all around. I fell right into the feel of jazz that day, and at the end of the session they urged me to join them in the Crawford High School jazz ensemble. I auditioned soon after and that launched a lifelong association with them. We played dozens of jazz festivals, gigs (in several different formats--acoustic quartet, 9 piece funk band, swinging big band, etc).

In the early '70s, I felt like race suddenly became a barrier between us. They seemed to get into the Black Power movement, and I was drawn to the world of Frank Zappa and progressive rock music. We parted ways as they went on the road with Barry White and I moved into Synanon after high school. Several years went by without much contact, until I dropped into a San Diego club on a visit back home and ran into Hollis who invited me onstage. It was a bracing moment--Hollis played great and was very warm to me, but he seemed out of it, which I knew was a result of his intermittent drug use. Soon after that night, I got in touch with Nathan, who had been my closest personal friend of the group at the time. I will never forget spending time at Nathan's bustling house--so many brothers and sisters, so many laughs with his father and warmth from his mother. Nathan's career was already on the rise, recording with Lionel Ritchie and Phil Collins and countless others. I was inspired to look up Carl and found that the easy feeling of our relationship had returned. We spoke on the phone pretty often, and both Carl and Hollis played on my solo albums. What they brought to my music was outstanding, and decidedly different from what other guest artists could bring.

Then 20 years ago, KPBS did a tv special on the four of us, a 'where are they now?' thing focusing on our careers since taking the high school jazz festival circuit by storm. They brought us all into the studio and we played together for the first time since high school. I have the VHS tape, which gets more precious with every passing of my friends. Today only Nathan and I survive (Hollis died a little over a year ago).

Carl was so smart musically--his music education was pretty strong, but his intuitive gifts were more significant imo. He had a knack for using voicings that were far more sophisticated than you'd expect from a 15 year old kid. He really used to turn my head when, instead of playing a G7 chord he'd automatically play an A7 over G, which sounded so poignant it would break my heart. I used to go up to him after every rehearsal or gig and make him show me what he had done in a particular song (the same with Nathan, which was how I learned how to play the bass). I think they were kind of amused at their drummer trying to cop their licks and tricks on their own instruments at first, but as I grew as a composer and multi-instrumentalist I felt as if I gained their respect as a player.

I grew closer to Carl during the early '90s, when his diabetes started impacting his health. He was touring with Fattburger and during a stop in Visalia, he came to spend a couple of days with Glenda and me at Synanon. I was stunned to see that his vision was almost gone and that he could only walk with a cane, but we hung in my studio all day and got to know each other again. He had the knack of making you feel like his best friend.

From then on, I would visit him when I came to San Diego to see my folks, and then more frequently when I moved back to SD. He was producing local artists and still recording and touring with Fattburger when he was physically able. A failed kidney transplant left him weaker than ever, but our phone calls would often last an hour or longer as he was always in the mood to talk, to tell jokes, to remenisce, to cut up our favorite players. We ended every phone call by saying "I love you."

I last saw him this February when he was recovering in the hospital from having his leg amputated. It was not a visit I was looking forward to. A couple of nights before, I had attended a packed benefit concert at a local club and got to talk with his daughter Rachel. Even though everyone was optimistic, I felt like he was slipping into that period when visits might be an imposition, but I pushed through my own resistance and spent the most wonderful, loving and sad 90 minutes with him. He was much smaller than the last time I'd seen him--more hair gone, a rounder face that looked so much like his father had when I'd met him 35 years earlier, but his charm and energy were intact. We talked about love as a force, we held hands and told each other beautiful things, said our thanks for the opportunity to be friends. We laughed so hard that a nurse came in because it sounded like we were yelling! At that time I had just finished co-producing the San Miguel Jazz Festival and we started making plans for Carl to play there at the end of 2008. He then said "You know, I'm sure I'm going to need another kidney transplant, so we had better plan for the next year instead of this year." I agreed and told him there would always be a place for him on any stage I was involved with.

He moved back home and I am sad to admit that I couldn't bring myself to call him again after that visit. I kept putting it off. I wanted him to heal, but my heart was so broken by the possibility that the end was near that I selfishly put off checking in with him. I hope he forgives me for this lapse. When I got into San Diego last night, the first thing I noticed was a message I had printed out from Nathan last Feb giving me Carl's new home phone #. The THINGS TO DO list I brought with me from Mexico had "CALL CARL!" and his phone #. I was resolved to call him this very morning, but when I checked my email I saw one from Nate with Carl's name in the subject line and I knew I was too late. The story ends there.

RIP Carl. If love is the energy that keeps the planet turning, then I hope you know that you've kept it spinning for a good long time. Rest up and I hope I will see your pie-eating, major 7th chord-playing soul again some day. "

- Doug, Mexico

I am said to hear of Carl Evans Jr passing, I last saw him at Richard Elliot CD release party in 2002. My older brother was the first person to introduce me to the sound of Fattburger. I'd like to offer my condolences to his family, he will be greatly missed.

- Fred

I first met Carl and Lisa and his family when I was a relatively new judge(approx. 1983) and we lived up the street from each other in El Cajon. He offered me many musical interludes and special music when I needed it most. I will personally miss him and his wonderful creations but not his music because I have his CDs.

- Judge Liz Riggs, San Diego

Lisa Evans is our cousin and we last visited Carl, Lisa, Rachel & Carl III in San Diego in 1997. We saw Carl and Fattburger at the Keswick Theatre in Glenside, PA and Wiggins Park in Camden, NJ. Carl had a great sense of humor and was always upbeat dispite his medical challenges. He will be sorely missed.

- Leroy & Debbie & Ashley Howell, Phila., PA 

I moved to San Diego from Baltimore ten years ago. Shortly after I had the honor to record music with both Carl Evans & Hollis Gentry, both on the same Cd.(Azya,by T.Muhammad) That music will live on . Thank you Carl.

- Tony M., San Diego

I was carl's nurse the last week of his life and just wanted to say what a wonderful person carl was. He was always quick with telling a joke and kept me laughing. He was loved by the staff at the hospital. I will miss carl, my only regret was that I wasn't able to hear him play.

- Paul, San Diego

I didn't get a chance to formerly meet Carl but I am the cousin of Lisa and wanted to say we have you all in our prayers and know that through your valley of weeping you will become stronger. (Psalm 84:6-7) We love you cousins and hope to see you all soon.

- Cousin Tina, Conyers, GA

I did not know anyone in the music industry when i arrived in San Diego,Ca.The Hilton Hotel in Mission Bay was the hot spot. One Sunday summer evening in 1983, i was at the Hilton listening to this outstanding piano player. After he concluded playing for the evening, i made my acquaintance and he introduced himself as Mel Goot. I asked him would he be interested in assisting me in putting together a demo. He replied in a soft and gentle way by saying he was to busy.However,he did indicate that he had a real good friend that could possibly help me and his name is Carl evans Jr.Upon meeting Carl, i had no idea that we would create this dynamic relationship that would last for twenty five years.Carl, as he did with others, took me under his wings and mentored me musically.He included me in on several projects with artist like Holis Gentry, Vilaya Roberts, Marguerita Page,Toni Hackley, and Dr. Dave.Carl was very gracious in dispensing both musical and general infomation on many topics that are connected to the human existence. If you listen to Carl long enough, you would surely learn something new because he always had plenty to talk about. He was humble, humorous, kind, giving,and a great lover of people. One of the most honorable things he did for me was to hire me to manage a jazz club that him and Mel Goot started called HOLY SMOKES. It was located in the Gaslamp at 939 4th avenue. He trusted me with payroll and other expenditures. The most powerful thing he ever said to me took place in the studio while working on a demo. He called me a non technical genius the same as Al Jareau. Carl was schedule to produce my CD after his recovery. However, the creator had other plans. He was a true and dear friend and i am very fortunate and thankful that GOD allowed his positive spirit to touch my soul and life in a very profounfd way. I extend my deepest sympathy to his family as we move through these dark times of sadness and sorrow from the lost of a true giant.

- Al, San Diego

I was able to see and hear Carl and fattburger live at the Hilton Inn in Albuquerque. It was a very Kool gig as Carl and the guys in the band were having fun playing their music.

-Ray, Corrales NM

I had the pleasure of working with Carl, both live and in the studio... He always had a smile for you, always a kind word and he could just flat out groove! I will miss you, Carl, very much.

- Michael M., Carlsbad 

When my wife and I were dating, we would ask Carl to sing "One of a Kind", which he would gladly perform. I always thought it was one of Fattburger's best. So naturally when I proposed to my wife, it was with Carl and Fattburger playing "One of a Kind". Carl's excitement for us made this special event even more memorable. Kathy and I have always considered "One of a Kind" our special song. Thanks to Carl, we will always have this special memory to cherish.

- Kenny B., San Diego

Sharing and working with Carl for 14 summers as I presented "Fattburger" for the series "Music In The Park," in the City of Chula Vista. But knowing, that heavens are truly rocking now that Carl, Hollis and Luther are back together!

- Ric, San Diego

I first met Carl in the '80's when Fattburger and my band, Forecast, both auditioned for KIFM to be the opening act for Dave Brubeck at Humphrey's. Fattburger ended up getting the gig and the rest as they say, is history.

Carl also intoduced me to a great keyboard player, Max Zape, who 20 years later still plays keyboards with Forecast.

I remember Carl as as warm and friendly person and a monster keyboard player who could play any kind of jazz or popular music. Everytime I ran into him, he always had a kind word to say. I hope Fattburger can continue on. Carl and Hollis (rest in peace) would want that.

- Greg, San Diego

Carl Evans, Jr...What a remarkable musician. I was fortunate to have met Carl many yrs ago by two dear special close friends of mine, Steve Laury and Calvin Romance. All with such great spirits and souls. I have truly been blessed and enriched by being able to see and hear them as musicians and I thank God for the opprotunity that I was able to meet him. He will truly be missed.
With Respect and Love, xoxoxox

- Dawn Principe, San Diego 

I remeber when i first saw Fat Burger at the 4th & b many many years ago Everytime they were in San Diego i always tried to make their concerts I have always been amazed that A great muscian he is He makes magic when he played I will miss him dearly

- Irma, El Cajon

I AM A FOND LOVER OF JAZZ. I ENJOYED CARL'S MUSIC. I HAD THE PLEASURE OF BEING RACHEL EVANS, HIS DAUGHTERS COUNSELOR AT LINCOLN HIGH SCHOOL. HIS MUSIC WILL FOREVER LIVE ON.

- Harold, San Diego

I met Carl half a century ago in kindergarden at St. Rita's School. We became best friends when he saved me from being thrown over the second story school railing by a couple of bullies by simply sitting on me. Five decades of brotherhood means I have probably more Carl Evans stories than anyone! I call him my best friend but then everyone calls him their best friend! Carl's the only guy you call to console and he ends up consoling you. There are not enough superlatives to describe this wonderful human being. He's Magic.. he's one of a kind! A brother, father, son, partner, mentor, giver, earth angel. I never heard a single complaint out of Carl, only a positive and loving spirit. I will miss our two hour phone conversations. We can all learn from this wonderful man how to live our lives. I would say we lost Carl on April 10th but that would imply not knowing where he is and we all know he's in Heaven. God bless his family and may he rest in peace, in glory, he's free!
Carl, I dedicate my life to you!
With all my love, your brother from our other Mother,

- Nate, Los Angeles

I was deeply saddened to hear the news about Carl, but am glad that his pain and suffering are finally over. God has called another angel back to heaven! My family grew up with the Evans family back in the St. Rita's days, and my brothes David and Nathan played in the group "Power" with him. In recent years my brother James has played with Carl, and there has been a strong friendship between our families for many years. I am so glad I was able to visit with Carl this past December just after his surgery. He had his same big smile and was still cracking jokes even though he was in pain. I will never forget what a great musician he was, but more than that, what a positive outlook he had on everything! Carl will be greatly missed and I offer my sincere condolence to the Evans family.
Love and prayers,

- Cecilia, Phila., PA

These reflections remind me of how I first met and want to remember Carl. In fact, I met Carl and Nathan (East) at the same time on the lawn of the Third College Quad at UCSD in 1974. Rising Sons was finishing a concert. It was late in the afternoon, the grass was wet from a rare rain the night before.

Nate and Carl introduced me to one of the puzzles that still haunt me today: That very hip 5/4 vamp to their title tune, "We Are the Rising Sons." Carl tried to teach me that rhythm again a few weeks ago from his hospital bed. It still rattles around in my head slightly insecure. I think I'll keep it that way--slightly insecure and rattling around because it provokes me to think about Carl, Hollis, the entire East Family, and the Rising Sons who helped to introduced me and my family to San Diego thirty-five years ago.

I cannot be at Carl's Homecoming Service this weekend, but I'll spend the day (and every day afterwards) trying to tap out that joyful rhythm that held us together these so many years. God speed!

- Cecil Lytle, San Diego 

Carl will forever be a beacon of artistic-genius, life-inspiration, and human-thoughtfulness. He generously shared his music through his positive demeanor as well his wonderful piano performances. He had a way of easing our worries by keeping always us Laughing Out Loud!
In the University of “Living Life and Dealing with Adversity” - Carl was my Professor.

- Alan, Oakland

Being a former local artist from San Diego myself, I have so many thoughts and memories if Carl Evans I think the one the sticks out the most was when I was asked to sing and my cousins 50th anniversayr re-commitment ceremony and I had no idea who was to play for for and then in walks Carl Evans!!! I felt so special and honored to have some one of his misical caliber playing for me! I was so overwhelmed, of course he knew the song and went over it once and he was right there with me to the end! Pure Perfection!!!!

- Tina, San Diego

We were saddened to hear of Carl's passing. Carl Evans Jr was a creative genius, acclaimed jazz musician and a very humble friend. We cannot recall him ever uttering a negative word. Even with his health challenges, he was still upbeat. We will truly miss opportunities to converse with him. Carl was internationally known but kept it real. He left you with the feeling of fellowship, community, family, friends and goodheartedness. We are humbled and full of gratitude to have known him and experienced an abundance of blessings through his music and the journey of his life. May Carl rest in peace.

- John and Rhonda, Chula Vista

I miss you! I have known Carl since St. Ritas and used to walk home with him. Carl was all heart and not just a great musician!From time to time I would run into Carl and it was just like we were in school. I would often see Carl playing, with my uncle Ted Picou, FatBurger and Nathan East and know that he was a great musician. His spirit is with us.

- Ron, Murrieta

As the leader of Harvey and 52nd Street Jive, Carl Evans alway came through for me, with a recommendation,when a player cancelled and I needed a replacement. The nicest guy. He will be missed

- Harvey and 52nd Street Jive, San Diego

I recall a time when I phoned my friend Carl to encourage him. .. and he encouraged me. . . Always kind, thoughtful.. . and filled with Wisdom. . . he will be missed.

- Deborah, Imperial Beach