Throughout the 1970s and 80s, concert lighting designer/production manager Jimmy was an all-access backstage-pass eyewitness to some of rock’s most legendary live performances.

His lighting style was decisive and dramatic, lending atmosphere and visual impact to concerts, and he was in demand by major acts like ABBA, Queen, and The Rolling Stones. In 1985 while running Vari-Lite, Jimmy was asked if they would supply free lighting for Live Aid. In Bob Geldof’s words, “It’ll be the biggest concert ever, the biggest TV broadcast of any live concert.” Of course, we said yes.

When asked what he thought of the day, Jimmy said, “It was the most memorable moment of my career in the music business. Everyone cooperated, and egos were put aside; it was a tremendous joint effort. And it worked superbly.”

Jimmy has written a book, Shine a Light, recounting his tell-all tales of life on the road and the personal toll it takes. It should be out later this year. “Queen Rock Montreal,” a film of Queen’s 1981 show, has recently been digitally remastered. It looks and sounds great. It is available on Disney+.