JACK RUSSELL To JANI LANE: 'If It Was Not For Your Passing, I Would Not Be Here'

JACK RUSSELL'S GREAT WHITE frontman Jack Russell has posted the following letter to late WARRANT singer Jani Lane, who passed away exactly a year ago today (August 11):

"Dear Jani,

"I cannot believe it has been a year since you left us. I have been sitting here thinking about that day, that horrible tragic day that saddened me and terrified me into having the courage to save my own life.

"I remember meeting you back in the late '80s with your band at the NAMM show. Your first album had just come out and you were all excited, walking around with your heads in the clouds as if you were the first band to ever make a record. It was funny because that was exactly how we acted after our first album came out.

"Next thing you know, we were on tour together. I remember watching your set before we would go on, thinking that you reminded me a lot of myself. I thought you were a fantastic singer with great energy and I could tell that you were having a blast.

"At the last show I hit you in the face with a whipped cream pie and the rest was history.

"Over the years, we became friends and although we were not the kind of friends who watched football together on Sundays, we genuinely loved each other’s work and had a mutual respect and admiration for each other. Whenever we had time to catch up over the years, it seemed like yesterday.

"I was laughing thinking about the time at the American Music Awards when we both showed up with black eyes.

"I was always worried about you, but like myself, I thought we were invincible. Unfortunately, I was wrong about both of us.

"If it was not for your passing, little brother, I would not be here. I just wish it did not have to happen the way it did. I miss you, as does everyone you have touched with your life. I know it is beautiful where you are and I will see you again someday my friend.

"Love until then, Jack."

Lane filled in for Russell with GREAT WHITE during the summer of 2010 while Jack dealt with some health issues.

Russell gave a short speech at a public memorial for Jani Lane, which was held on August 29, 2011 at Key Club in Hollywood, California. Video footage of his appearance can be seen below.