Buzz Montsinger, a saxophonist known to many Rock ‘n’ Roll aficionados in the Fan District — especially Baby Boomers — has made steady progress with his recovery from a serious spinal cord injury last spring.

Last year at this time, Montsinger was in the hospital. He was paralyzed and his future was uncertain, at best. After two-and-a-half months in the hospital Buzz (pictured above, in the middle sitting down) was released just two days before a throwdown was to happen on his behalf at Plant Zero. Steve Bassett performed, as did Robbin Thompson. Billy Ray Hatley’s band played, so did Bruce Olsen (to the left of Buzz in the photo) and his band. Ron Moody and the Centaurs closed the show. Those men are all longtime friends of Buzz’s.

Old Buzz managed to blow a few notes (see photo below) on his sax, too, much to the goodly-sized crowd’s delight. It was quite hot that day and this scribbler must report it wasn’t easy for many of Buzz’s old friends to drink enough beer. But in the spirit of the occasion, we tried.

Yes, it was quite a party, but on that July 16th Buzz couldn’t stand on his feet without being held up on both sides by friends. So, they held. And, much-needed funds were raised to help Buzz in his time of need. For more background on this story click here, here, and here, to see posts at SLANTblog about last year’s event at Plant Zero.

Now, Buzz is much improved. He can walk on his own with a cane; his spirit is upbeat about continuing to get better. And, yes, another party is being put together.

Here’s a note from Beverly Montsinger about that event, set to happen on July 22:

Buzz wants me to spread the word that he plans to host another concert this year on July 22 at Plant Zero. He plans to DJ along with other groups that will be performing. More details to follow and will be posted on the Give Love to Buzz web site.

– words and photos by F.T. Rea