Hastings music scene mourns loss of local guitar legend
The local music scene has been shocked by the sudden death of guitarist Andy Neate.
Known for his dextrous playing and versatility on guitar and lap steel, Andy was a mainstay on the Hastings music scene and widely admired by many other musicians.
His death, aged 69, was reported as ‘a fatal collapse’ on Saturday (September 5).
He was part of Los Twangueros, a Hastings band blending Spanish flamenco classics, African percussion, and global grooves. Their music has been featured on Café Del Mar and Hotel Costes playlists.
He also performed with Just Landed, a duo he formed with fellow local musician Jem Turpin and frequently collaborated with Ghanaian percussionist Nana Tsiboe.
Tributes to Andy have been paid by local pubs and venues. The Lord Nelson, where Andy was a regular, issued a statement to say: “He will be sorely missed for his unapologetic personality and humour. Rest easy Andy.”
The Jenny Lind, where Andy frequently played, said: “We extend our sincere condolences to Andy’s family, friends and all those he touched with his warm-hearted grouchiness, arch humour and virtuoso guitar playing. Andy, you already are, and will always be, deeply missed.”
Music promoter Jeffrey Louis Reed said: “It is almost impossible to say how big an influence Andy had on the Hastings scene, with ubiquitous gigs, music teaching and a huge presence.”
A Just Giving Page, set up by a friend to raise funds for Andy’s family has already exceeded its £1,000 target, with £1,255 being donated as of Tuesday (September 8).
The page states: “This has been created to raise money for those near and dear to Andy and help celebrate his life. Andy suffered a fatal collapse at home on Saturday leaving his family devastated and heartbroken.
"As well as Andy being the loving partner of Paula, he was a well know musician and part of the fabric of Hastings Old Town. Andy was big in stature and personality and leaves Paula, Sonny and Jett grieving. He is irreplaceable in their lives and a donation is just a small way we can remember Andy and support his family at this tragic time.”
People can donate by going to www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/andyneate.