In the hearts and memories of those in his hometown, the late singer Joe Cocker is fondly remembered as not just a legendary musician, but also as a genuinely kind and sweet individual. While the world recognizes Cocker for his powerful voice and impassioned performances, the local community cherishes the personal interactions and genuine warmth he shared with them.
Born and raised in Sheffield, England, Joe Cocker never forgot his roots, and his love for his hometown was evident in his actions and interactions with the people around him. Despite his international fame and success, he remained grounded and approachable, treating everyone he encountered with respect and kindness.
Cocker's down-to-earth nature and humble demeanor endeared him to his fans and community members alike. He was known to spend time engaging in conversations with locals, genuinely interested in their lives and stories. Whether it was during a chance encounter at a local café or a community event, Cocker made an effort to connect on a personal level, making each individual feel seen and valued.
His raspy, blues-laden voice and energetic stage demeanor set legendary singer Joe Cocker apart during his more than 50-year career in rock ‘n’ roll.
And while he was the embodiment of kinetic energy during performances, Cocker was also known as a very gentle man who loved growing tomatoes in his greenhouse, playing snooker, and going for walks with his dogs.
Jimmy Yeager, owner of Jimmy’s and Jimmy’s Bodega in Aspen, befriended the singer back in 1996, after catering an event held at Cocker’s Crawford, Colo. ranch, about 100 miles from Aspen.
“Joe was really a total sweetheart. He had a big rock ‘n’ roll persona, but was a very gentle man,” Yeager said Tuesday. “My experience was that he was happiest while on stage. He was a troubadour and had an interpretive ability to bring life into songs, and an uncanny ability to create magical moments. … He was such a loving person.”
Cocker died on Monday at the age of 70, following a battle with lung cancer.
Yeager said he was hired by Cocker’s wife, Pam, as a chef for a party, but had no idea he would be catering at the singing legend’s home.
“I walked in and saw these gold albums,” Yeager said. “I had no idea Pam was married to Joe Cocker.”
But he said Cocker was on tour at the time so he didn’t get to meet him until another catering event, after which the two became friends.
“We were at the ranch and [someone] asked ‘which guy is Joe Cocker?’” Yeager said. “I told him it’s the guy with the British cap on bringing in the groceries. He was that kind of guy.”
Yeager said that he was already a huge fan of Cocker’s music and had one of his songs play during his wedding in the 1980s.
He said that the Mad Dog Ranch Salad and Mad Dog Ranch BBQ Sauce, which are both served at his restaurants, were first created during a party at the Cockers’ home in August of 1996.
Yeager said that the couple loved the town of Crawford and its residents, and the party was for workers who helped build the Mad Dog Ranch.
“It was a 24-hour party with 450 people and five or six bands,” he said. “There were tents and teepees set up and about 250 people slept over. In the morning, we served brunch for 350 people.”
Yeager added that in November 2000, the musician bought 300 tickets for Crawford residents to see him play with Tina Turner in Denver.
That generous spirit was honored on Monday as Yeager dished out Mad Dog Ranch salads at his restaurant free of charge.
Jim Horowitz, founder, president and CEO of Jazz Aspen Snowmass, said he had a “strong professional relationship” with Cocker over the years.
“I worked with him a number of times and it was always a wonderful experience,” he said. “He was truly a professional. He was a great artist and great person. Every show he gave was a 10 … there wasn’t a single note that was off.”
Horowitz said that he approached Cocker’s agent in November to see if he would play next year’s festival, but was told that there were no touring plans made for 2015.
He added that Cocker played JAS in 2000 for the festival’s tenth year, in 2003 in Rio Grande Park, and again in 2010 and 2012.
“He had a knack for taking songs and making them his own,” Horowitz said. “He was a great guy and a world-class musician. He leaves behind quite a legacy.”
Just as famous as his renditions of the Beatles’ “She Came In Through The Bathroom Window” and “With a little Help From My Friends,” or Traffic’s “Feelin’ Alright?” was Cocker’s unique style of dance while performing.
Yeager said he asked the singer about it once, and Cocker replied that he was just doing what felt natural since he didn’t play an instrument.
“So, it was like he was playing a guitar,” he said. “It’s how he feels the music. I don’t think he could help himself.”
Yeager said that the Cockers frequented Aspen, often stopping by his restaurants and the Hotel Jerome.
“Joe was just an absolute sweetheart and a genuine human being,” he added.
Beyond his musical talents, Joe Cocker was admired for his philanthropic endeavors within his hometown. He recognized the importance of giving back to the community that shaped him, and he actively supported various local causes and initiatives. From donating to local charities to organizing benefit concerts, Cocker used his platform to make a positive impact and improve the lives of those in need.
Perhaps it was Cocker's genuine and caring nature that made his performances in Sheffield so special. Local fans recall attending his concerts, not only for his exceptional vocal abilities but also for the intimate connection he forged with the audience. His genuine appreciation for their support was palpable, creating a bond that transcended the stage.
Joe Cocker's passing in 2014 left a void in the music industry, but his impact on his hometown continues to resonate. Sheffield will forever hold a special place in its heart for the man who shared his incredible talent and genuine spirit with the world. His legacy serves as a reminder that true greatness lies not only in talent and success but also in the way we treat others and the communities we call home.
As the local community remembers Joe Cocker, they reflect on the sweet and genuine nature of the man behind the music. His legacy extends beyond his performances and albums; it lives on in the memories of those who were fortunate enough to encounter his kindness and experience his extraordinary talent up close. Joe Cocker will forever be cherished as a beloved hometown hero, whose authenticity and generosity continue to inspire others to spread love and positivity in their own communities.