Emitt Rhodes

1973 publicity photo

The recent passing passing of Emitt Rhodes has brought out new praise for his legacy despite his limited track record.  Omnivore Recordings released his 2016 swan song comeback Rainbow Ends, his first in 43 years.  The label is known for reissuing out of print material, including Roger Taylors solo material in the US.  Rhodes released one album for A&M and three for ABC/Dunhill (all owned by Universal today, but the masters were lost in the 2008 fire).  They could be reissued if copied from Japanese CDs or good condition LPs.  He also had unreleased albums that may now be owned by his estate that also deserve a release.  Rhodes's '70s output brought comparisons to Paul McCartney.  Rhodes shared a birthday with George Harrison to boot.  It's a shame MCA didn't reissue the three ABC LPs when they bought the label in 1979.  A vinyl and CD remaster would allow for a reevaluation of an artist who was forgotten for far too long, but unlike Syd Barrett, managed to return for one last album.  Rhodes was 70 years of age.