Page 6 THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, February 7, 2025 ~ Malden Musings ~ He’s Back...and Better Than Ever! John A. Fitzpatrick (Fitzy) Sales & Lease Consultant Direct: 617.410.1030 Main: 617.381.9000 Cell: 617.279.9962 jfitzpatrick@mcgovernauto.com McGovern Automotive Group 100 Broadway, Rte. 99, Everett Gerry D’Ambrosio Attorney-at-Law Is Your Estate in Order? Do you have an update Will, Health Care Proxy or Power of Attorney? If Not, Please Call for a Free Consultation. 14 Proctor Avenue, Revere (781) 284-5657 Tommy Higgins Remembered I By Peter Levine n the “life carries on but love continues” department...Tommy Higgins left us far too soon on November 27, leaving behind a legacy as rich and vibrant as the music he so passionately supported. In the pantheon of Malden Rock Hall of Fame, Tommy stands proudly alongside legends like Gary Cherone, Charlie Farren, Norman Greenbaum, Bobby Crowley, Teddi King, Mark McKay, John Surette, Vinnie Straccia, Marc Phaneuf, John Preziosa, Phil Bynoe and John Bionelli. His roots ran deep in Malden, growing up on Gale Street, where the sounds of life echoed from Frenchie’s Convenience Store to Sal’s Barbershop to my very own family home not far away on Charles Street. Tommy was a friend to most who crossed his path, radiating kindness and camaraderie along the way. At just 12 years old, he was already captivated by the local music scene, often sneaking over to Presley Street to listen to John Surette and his band, Boys’ Life, rehearse. It was around this time that he met Marie Bionelli’s youngest boy John of the Emerald Street Bionellis – a meeting that sparked a friendship lasting an incredible 43 years. That bond would later lead to a remarkable Malden’s very own Tommy Higgins center stage flanked by Aerosmith’s Joe Perry, Tom Hamilton and Brad Whitford (Aaron Perry picture) chapter in Tommy’s life when, in 2000, John brought him into the inner sanctum of rock legends Aerosmith. Tommy became a cornerstone of the Aerosmith team, playing multiple roles with unwavering dedication. He wasn’t just the keeper of the band’s archives; he was their “Swiss Army knife” – ready to step in for Steven Tyler, Joe Perry, Tom Hamilton or Brad Whitford during rehearsals. His contributions were invaluable, enabling the band to fine-tune their craft no matter the circumstances. To many, Tommy was as much a part of the Aerosmith family as the band members themselves. Tommy’s story was one of passion, loyalty and an unyielding love for music – and his hometown, Malden. As he grew older, one of his favorite pastimes was returning to Maldonia. He’d take nostalgic drives through Edgeworth, revisiting the streets of his youth and reconnecting with the memories that shaped him. Tommy Higgins was more than a man behind the scenes – he was the heartbeat of the music he loved and the people he cherished. His absence will be deeply felt, but his legacy will continue to echo through the halls of Maldonia rock history and the hearts of all who knew him. It is said in “Malden Musings”... • Rest in peace, Mrs. Linda Marie (Chiccuarelli) Tamasi (former Malden HR Director Anthony’s — Vinyl Siding — Carpentry Work — Decks — Roofing — Free Estimates — Replacement Windows — Fully Licensed — Fully Insured
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