Firefest
The Final Fling 2014 – Nottingham, England
In 2014, I had the opportunity to go to my first music festival. I have seen many concerts since 1985, but here was a chance to see many amazing bands in three days. The big issue was selling this idea to my wife. I guess it wasn’t a hard sell as she agreed I deserved it. I did not know that this would start a whole new music life for myself. Five years later, and four Sweden Rock Festivals, three Monsters Of Rock cruises, two Rock N Skull festivals and a trip to Switzerland and Germany for three nights of concerts. What a ride it has been, taking photos, writing reviews and doing interviews.
Today, I wanted to remember Firefest The Final Fling 2014 where I was able to see bands I would only dream to be able to see live. Groups like Ten, Black N’ Blue, Pretty Maids and Danger Danger have been on the bucket list for years. Also on the bill was Shy with lead singer Tony Mills. I have been a fan since the 1980’s and it was amazing to finally see them perform live.
As we have lost a couple of big names recently in the music industry, we now announce that Tony Mills has sadly passed away.
I am so glad I was able to see Tony perform with his band Shy. May you rest in peace.
Shawn “Animalize” Irwin
Here is the statement from Tony’s wife on his Facebook page.
Anthony Paul Mills
07.07.1962-18.09.2019
It is with a shattered heart that I announce the passing of my loving husband and best friend Tony Mills. He was diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer in April of this year and lived his life to the fullest until he exhaled for the last time in my arms. He wanted to live, but wasn’t afraid of death.
Most will know him through his incredible contribution to the music world as a singer in bands like Shy and TNT as well as a solo artist and session vocalist. He leaves behind him a legacy that will live on for many lifetimes.
Those people closest to him will also know him as a gentle and kind soul, a dedicated husband with a love for the quiet life, his animals and his motorbikes. His sense of humour was always on point. His last summer was the happiest in his life, at the end of each day he exclaimed “It’s been another fantastic day!” He spent a lot of time in his workshop fixing up his dirtbike so he could ride it later this autumn. The evening before he passed, he managed to whisper:
“I’ve had a good life. I’ve had a GOOD life. I’m just a bit pissed about the bike.”
Linda Mills
Photos of SHY at Firefest 2014
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