MISSOULA — Missoula lost a local musical legend this week when Michael Singer died in a car crash on Wednesday.
A few hours after New Year’s Eve, Michael "Micki" Singer was killed in a car crash north of Arlee.
He was driving home to Missoula after playing at the Symes Hot Springs hotel with his band.
Curtis Rathburn, who played with him in Soul City Cowboys, said, "He was the biggest teddy bear in the world, the gentlest soul I've ever met."
Singer’s wife Helena Vlasto said she loved dancing at his gigs. She said he always wanted to help and that he was always there for others.
"That part of Micki," said Vlasto. "We're all gonna miss a lot."
Singer was only 63 years old when he died.
Teri Llovet played with him in the band Soul City Cowboys, and recalled the night they met years ago.
"It just happened to be a night that we were having a jam, and he sat behind the drum set and that was it. He started playing with everybody in town."
He played with countless bands. Llovet said the night he died, everyone was dancing, and it was a great last show. "It was magic,” she said. “The night was magic."
Peter Barbario says Singer was in his band for a few years, and he played at the Symes with them multiple times.
“We should all be able to go out like that. Not ultimately like that, but at least have all the greatness under your belt, and love behind you," Barbario said. "I'm gonna miss him forever."
Singer was also a DJ for Local Exposure on KBGA College Radio. They will host an on air memorial service next Monday from 12PM-2PM.
