Azad, I was so lucky to know you. One of the most brilliant people I've ever met, without a doubt. The way you could process music was unlike anyone else. You were the ultimate collaborator and someone I was convinced would make a big impact in the world. You already had, actually, but it was easy to see your growth affecting more and more people. Talking with you was effortless, and I deeply miss seeing you as often as I did. You were hilarious, and I can think of many times you had me in tears! One time, in the middle of a meeting at Music House!!

You taught me so much, and I still think of things you've done or said to this day. You helped me to abandon my pretensions about art and just have fun. You showed me having multiple passions can help them all grow, holistically.  You helped me create some of the best music I've ever made, and you did it in a way I will always appreciate and aspire to - by seeing my songs as a chance to collaborate and make something exciting and new out of them. 

And you are teaching me still, sadly, the lesson of grief and acceptance. You were the first of my close friends to pass away, and my heart will always feel your loss. You really were the type of person we should all aspire to be, and that makes it so much harder to move on. I try to carry on by embodying some of the qualities I saw in you: your optimism, your excitement for all things creative, and your openness toward people and ideas. 

You are a beautiful soul, Azad. And even though I miss you dearly, I'm so deeply grateful I got to know you. 

Dear Sujatha,

Thinking of your son and of you!

Sincerely,  Laura (Swenson) Donnelly

Dear Azad, you may have left for your heavenly abode, but you are still as much alive in many hearts as when you were around. 

Rest in peace, Azzu...