"My most vivid memories of Mort Shuman are on those cold winter nights in New York’s Greenwich Village, listening to the Music of Jacques Brel while Morty stood translating his French lyrics into pure American poetry. With an old fedora on his head, a red scarf around his neck and thrown over one shoulder, waving his arms in the air to the dynamics of the Music. He took me on a trip with stories I never heard before.

Morty was the type of guy I loved being with. He was a man of spirit. His imagination, talent and energy could fan into flame a fire that made we want to celebrate life.

He could express himself through a conversation, a Spanish Mountain song, a German folk tune, some French torch, Country or Rock and always filtered through basic Rhythm and Blues. Yet somehow it always came out pure Mort Shuman.

Morty was like a big brother I admired and looked up to. His encouragement, support and friendship is still with me to this day.

I feel blessed that I knew him – I will miss you Morty. Your friend, Dion"