Dear John
by Styx

Album: Return To Paradise (1997)
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Songfacts®:

  • Styx guitarist and vocalist Tommy Shaw wrote this song in memory of John Panozzo, the drummer for Styx who died in 1996 from cirrhosis of the liver, which was brought on by his alcoholism.
  • In tribute to Panozzo, there are no drums on this track.

Comments: 7

  • Matthew from Richmond, Vamy best friend - the best man at my wedding - died recently way too young. I've felt numb the past couple of days. We were both Styx fans and listening to this song finally brought the emotions out of me. "Heaven help me I miss my friend" .. so true.
  • Eric from Mentor, OhPerhaps the last great song to feature the classic harmonies of Dennis, Tommy and JY. Truly haunting.
  • Mia from Syracuse, NyThis is a very heart felt song that Tommy wrote about John Panazzo, his dear friend and former drummer of Styx. They were real close friends. Tommy has said that it brings teas to his eyes every time he plays it and that it took a while to record it because he had a hard time controling his emotions. It is a very beautiful song and a great tribute.
  • Bobbi from Kenhorst, PaI love this song. It is so appropriate when you lose a loved one. The feelings expressed such as "I swear I saw you on a crowded street today
    I almost called your name"
    are so true.
  • Tim from Denver, CoJohn Panozzo was the brother of bass player Chuck.
  • Sean from Boston, Mamakes me remember sad times of my life
  • Dawson from Draper, Utthis is such a sad song
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