If there is one person I would ever consider leaving my current life for, it would be for a drummer named Roger. It was 1984 when my sister showed me a video of five fab Brits performing on a stage with flashing lights and a fake waterfall pouring out of a giant screen onto their fans. From the moment I saw The Reflex I was entranced. Who are they? What is that all about? But most importantly. Who. Is. That?
![]() |
My sister had this poster in her bedroom. I used to stand in front of it staring directly into Roger’s eyes. I know… I know… |
My sister and her friends were of the Simon or John camps. That was fine. You can have them. I was alone in my Roger camp. But I knew, even then, that he was the finer choice, the one with longevity the one who would become more charming and more handsome. They’ll see, I thought to myself. They’ll see.
I liked that he didn’t talk much in group interviews. I liked that he didn’t wear makeup and that he was clean cut. I liked his smile. I liked that he seemed shy. I loved his English accent. I loved that he was and still is an amazing drummer. I liked reading that though he took his music really seriously, he also had other interests having nothing to do with Duran Duran. I liked reading that he decompressed during his down time by working out instead of partying all night. Years later, when he rejoined the band in the early 2000s, I loved that I could still recognize who I imagined him to be and that he seemed even better than ever. The same, just older. And still, well … sigh… very Roger.
So tonight on the very last few minutes of his birthday (4-26-60), a day in history that I have never forgotten since discovering Roger Taylor of Duran Duran years and years ago in New Jersey, I have to say, Happy Birthday, to you, and thanks for being one of my dots.
Now remembering his birthday is true dedication. And love. Clearly you were truly meant to be.
Clearly, girl… CLEARLY ❤️
awesome! i feel the same way about Bono. His birthday is tomorrow, still make note every year. Happy Birthday Bono!
Happy Birthday, Bono! Gotta love a Taurus!!!!