Max and I used to have this long running humorous exchange every time we crossed paths. In addition to moving a couple times, I had seen Valencia play in a multitude of cities across 13 different states. Needless to say, he was always slightly confused about where I actually lived and would lead to whole conversations trying to suss out the information. The best was when the band played a hometown show at the venue I worked at in Philadelphia. I had been working in the box at the time and he had come down to add a name to the guest list before running straight into me.

Max: You? Again?! Seriously, where do you live?
Me: You still don’t know do you?
Max: You are in a different place every single time I see you!

Back in 2007, Valencia went through a string of bad luck. Their van had been broken into, stuff had been stolen, some tires had blown, and their van died a couple times. Trying to help out, a friend and I collected all the random change we could find to donate to their limping van (kind of odd I guess, but whatever. good intentions). I don’t recall the entire exchange, but for the rest of my life I’ll smile every time I remember Max yelling, “You know what they stole from me!? UNDERWEAR!”

Although we were just acquaintances, I’m deeply saddened by the news I received about his passing. I wanted to take a moment to point out a couple happy memories and celebrate his life and the positive impact he had on others. It’s a huge shock to lose someone so young and my thoughts go out to Max’s family, friends and all the people he inspired through his music and bright personality. Rest in peace, Maxim.

Please read Valencia’s post here for information about a public service.