The tragic loss of Simon Small, a beloved figure in Chicago's underground rock community, has left a profound impact on those who knew him. In this article, we delve into the life and legacy of Small, exploring his contributions as a recording engineer, musician, and friend.
A Life Intertwined with Music
Simon Small's journey began with a chance encounter at Fest, a punk gathering in Gainesville, Florida. It was here that he crossed paths with Evan Weiss, the frontman of Into It. Over It., and their paths would intertwine once again when Small moved to Chicago.
What makes this story particularly fascinating is the serendipity of it all. Small's move to Chicago was facilitated by his spouse, Sarah Bogosh, who had roots in the city. This led to an opportunity for Small to work with Weiss and drummer Adam Beck at Type One Studios, where he became an integral part of the team.
During his time in Chicago, Small engineered for renowned acts like Mono, Black Midi, and The Saddest Landscape. His skill and passion for music production were evident, and he quickly gained the respect of the local emo, punk, and post-hardcore scenes.
Building Connections and Community
One thing that immediately stands out about Simon Small is his ability to connect with people. Whether it was through his work at the studio or his involvement in bands like Strawberry Boy and Maximum Wage, Small fostered deep connections with musicians and friends alike.
In my opinion, Small's impact on the community goes beyond his technical skills as an engineer. He had a unique talent for making people feel at ease and understood. As Avery Springer, front woman of Retirement Party, puts it, "Simon was somehow able to pick up on exactly what I wanted without me even knowing what I wanted."
This ability to connect and understand people's creative visions is a rare gift, and it's what made Small an invaluable asset to the music scene.
A Legacy of Friendship and Collaboration
The loss of Simon Small has sparked a wave of reflection and appreciation for his life and work. A benefit show was organized in his honor, with Retirement Party headlining, and many friends and colleagues sharing stories of their time with Small.
One of the most touching aspects of Small's life is the way he brought people together. Marc Bannes, singer-guitarist of Typesetter, noticed how Small and Bogosh hit it off instantly during their tour together. This led to their clandestine marriage and a deep friendship between the couples.
Small's impact extended beyond music. He loved video games, Magic: The Gathering, and vegan food, and he formed close bonds with friends like the Kellys, who shared a special connection with him.
A Lasting Impact
The death of Simon Small at the age of 37 is a tragic reminder of the fragility of life. However, his legacy lives on through the music he engineered, the bands he played in, and the countless friendships he fostered.
As we reflect on Small's life, it's clear that he left an indelible mark on those around him. His ability to connect, understand, and support others is a testament to his character and the impact he had on the Chicago music scene.
In a world where connections can be fleeting, Simon Small's story serves as a reminder of the power of genuine human interaction and the lasting impact it can have.
Rest in peace, Simon Small. Your spirit lives on through the music and the memories you've left behind.
