LARRY NORMAN, a solid rock in the history of Christian music, passed away February 24 at age 60, in Salem, Oregon. He had been battling heart problems for several years.
Norman, who virtually invented 'Christian rock,' released more than 60 albums and was frequently cited as an inspiration by other musicians. His most influential work was 'The Trilogy,' consisting of Only Visiting this Planet, So Long Ago the Garden and In Another Land, all released between 1972 and 1976. Some of his more important songs were 'Why Should the Devil Have All the Good Music,' 'I Wish We'd All Been Ready,' 'I'm the Six O'clock News' and 'The Rock that Doesn't Roll.'
According to Assist News, Norman was for several years "a permanent fixture on Hollywood Boulevard -- where, despite being a star with Capitol Records, he would spend his days and nights sharing one-on-one with the lost youth of Hollywood, about the love of Jesus Christ."
Assist also noted that Norman was "credited with inventing the 'One Way to Jesus' finger-pointing sign."
In a statement announcing his death, his brother Charles said: "We spent this past week laughing, singing and praying with him; and all the while, he had us taking notes on new song ideas and instructions on how to continue his ministry and art. Several of his friends got to come and visit with him in the last couple of weeks, and were a great source of help and friendship to Larry."
Just prior to his death, Norman dictated a message which read in part: "I feel like a prize in a box of crackerjacks, with God's hand reaching down to pick me up. I have been under medical care for months. My wounds are getting bigger. I have trouble breathing. I am ready to fly home . . . My plan is to be buried in a simple pine box with some flowers inside."
link to larry norman message board
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