[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 22 (Wednesday, March 2, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E336-E337]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 IN HONOR AND REMEMBRANCE OF JOHN RAITT

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, March 2, 2005

  Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and remembrance of 
John Raitt, beloved father, husband, and internationally known stage 
and cinema artist, whose incredible baritone voice, passion for life 
and handsome presence transformed the darkened stage into a place that 
sparked with enchantment, energy and possibility.
  Growing up in southern California, Mr. Raitt's deep, harmonious 
melodies captivated audiences in local venues, from church halls to 
community clubs, His rising star took flight in 1940, marking his 
professional debut as a chorus singer in ``HMS Pinafore'' with the Los 
Angeles Civic Light Opera. Although he had little operatic training, 
his voice was as inspiring and powerful as an operatic master. Even his 
auditions were riveting, as he rendered musical geniuses such as 
Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein speechless and inspired.
  From premier roles in award-winning theatrical productions such as 
``Oklahoma!,'' ``Carousel,'' and ``Magdalena,'' to significant roles in 
major films such as ``The Pajama Game,'' Mr. Raitt won the hearts of 
theater goers and critics alike. His love of music and his dedication 
to his audience never faded, nor did his personal and professional 
convictions. Mr. Raitt was a man of unwavering strength, kindness and 
integrity, and he offered everyone and every audience the same 
enthusiasm, energy and respect--whether playing in a small church hall 
or performing on a Broadway stage.
  Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join me in honor and remembrance 
of John Raitt, whose gift of song and kind heart is a legacy that will 
rise forever in the hearts of his family and friends, and within the 
hearts of every

[[Page E337]]

person who heard him sing. I offer my deepest condolences to his wife 
Rosemary; to his daughter Bonnie; to his sons, Steven and David; and to 
his many extended family members and friends. The gracious and joyous 
life of John Raitt will forever light our American musical landscape, 
and his invaluable gifts, reflected through song, stage and family, 
will be coveted for all time.

                          ____________________