Today is not a happy day, but on it we bring you some wonderful news. It has been three years ago today (February 20) that our beloved Pam Bricker left us. She lives on, still so vividly, in the many ways she touched our lives, perhaps most profoundly and with the greatest reach, through her music.

It is because of her work in music, both as a musician, and as a tireless cheerleader of the DC music scene, that the Washington Area Music Association (WAMA), decided to give Pam a Special Appreciation Award at this year's 22nd Wammies, on February 17, at the State Theater in Falls Church, VA. Long-time collaborator Wayne Wilentz presented the award and spoke eloquently of Pam and what a master musician she was (e.g. if Wayne lost his way in a tune, off-mic, Pam would sing the root note of the chord he was supposed to be playing). She prided herself on being a musician, not just a singer.

Karen Gray, Pam's former student, friend, and fellow vocalist, accepted the award on behalf of Pam's son Blake and her entire family. We're all very proud of Pam and know how honored she would have been by this acknowledgment by the music community.

In other Pam music news, last year, Thievery Corporation released an exclusive iTunes track with Pam called (appropriately) "The Passing Stars." The money from the sale of the tune goes to child victims of Chernobyl. The song is haunting, and may be difficult to listen to, but ultimately, it's a beautiful tribute. Fittingly, that's Pam's long-time musical partner Rick Harris on horns.

We miss you Pammy, but you'll always live in our hearts.

Updated February 20, 2008