Richard Carstens
Toronto, d. 8.March.2014
Richard Carstens was a veteran Toronto bike messenger and
dispatcher. He was also a successful independent musician and
songwriter. He led bands The Wammee, Madhouse and Granny and his
bands always played bike messenger benefits. Richard also composed
soundtracks and scores. He wrote and played on the theme for The
Sunday Night Sex Show With Sue Johanson. Richard was loved by
everyone who knew him in the music community and messenger
community. After his passing Toronto musicians organized two tribute
concerts to play his music with many of his friends performing.
I just found out my DEAR, DEAR friend, RICHARD CARSTENS has died.
R.I.P. RICHARD ... while I pretend this isn't so. I will always love
you, man :( I'm gutted. Richard Carstens's " Granny Sessions " is an
absolutely brilliant c.d. You left some whack fab music here, pal .
That may be the best I've ever heard you :)... And it could be heard
all the way up Eglinton last night – Grant Buffet
On Sunday Feb. 22, 2015 @ The Horseshoe, I will be performing one of
my fave RICHARD CARSTENS songs at my dear friends memorial gig. Many
of Richards fab songs will be performed by his band mates and
musical associates at this epic soiree. It will be an honour to
perform. It will be my first public performance in nearly 4 years. I
plan to hit a home run. Rip the cover off the ball. Right out of the
ball park for my fabulous friend who I miss more than words can
tell. The show starts at 8 pm. If you are friend, family, band mate,
associate or peer, I suspect you will be there. If you have never
heard of Richard or his music, feel free to attend this gig and hear
what you missed. – Grant Buffet
Last night, in one room saw The Sadies( Travis and Dallas) Ruston
Baldwin, Niki Henry, Adam Wordsworth Nobody Leonardo Valvassori
Jennifer Lewis and many others. The night was for Richard Carstens,
what a song writer he was. The people who preformed his songs where
top notch. – Chris Oliver
So sad to hear of Richard Carstens passing. When first got on the
road he was a mentor and later he would be my favourite dispatcher.
He was a very talented songwriter and artist – Joe Hendry
Richard’s obituary:
CARSTENS, Richard Peter
Our beloved Rich passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, March 8,
2014, at age 53. Predeceased by his father Peter (2010) and survived
by his loving mother, Madeleine. His sisters, Jennifer and Frances,
mourn his sudden passing, and will cherish the lifelong memories.
Nephew, Morrow will miss his Uncle Rich immensely. Richard was a
talented and dedicated indie rock musician on the Toronto scene
since his youth. He was admired by his fellow band members and peers
as an amazing lead guitarist and vocalist, and excellent songwriter.
He led bands The Wammee, Madhouse and Granny in the 80's and 90's.
Rich starred in the 1992 live production of Jesus Christ Superstar,
with other Toronto artists. Insightful and thoughtful, he was a fine
conversationalist on many subjects. Loved and missed by many who
knew him. Service has been held. Interment at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery.
A Facebook Tribute page was setup by Toronto musicians for Richard:
Richard Carstens – Rock and Roller
Richard Carstens - by
Bob Wiseman
