The phantom departs

Dan Federici died on Thursday at Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center after a three year battle with melanoma. For the past four decades, Federici partnered with a Jersey boy named Bruce, providing the distinctive organ, accordion and occasional glockenspiel layers to mix with other members of the E Street Band.

“Danny and I worked together for 40 years – he was the most wonderfully fluid keyboard player and a pure natural musician,” said Mr. Springsteen. “I loved him very much … we grew up together.”

Though Danny’s musical contributions will live on in CDs, DVDs, and bootlegged MP3s, he hoped that many of his fans will wake up to dangers that are often overlooked. The Danny Federici Melanoma Fund can be accessed here , and it contains this message from Phantom Dan:

“What people take for granted on a daily basis, among so many other things, is their skin. I spent my life, like many others, catching some rays, surfing, hanging out in the sun and it never bothered me until now. Who knew that something as simple as a proper sunscreen or keeping yourself covered up on a sunny day could one day save your life? … It’s time to think again. Especially if you’re fair skined, have freckles, or light eyes. Be aware of the dangers, take precaution, and have yourself checked out regularly by a dermatologist from head to toe. It could absolutely make the difference in your life.”

Hamba Kahle Dan, The 4th of July in Asbury Park will never sound as good again.