Musician Jon Mackenzie recovering from a stroke to play at Black Star Records in Lyndhurst alongside new friend who encouraged him

A MUSICIAN who is recovering after suffering a brain aneurysm and stroke is to play a special gig in Lyndhurst alongside a new friend who encouraged him to play.

Drummer Paul Ashby (62) met Jon Mackenzie (64), who plays acoustic guitar, in Black Star Records in the village in March and asked him if he needed someone to jam with.

Paul told the A&T: “It became apparent he had communication difficulties and I consequently found out he had a brain aneurysm in 2020.

“We became friends and started practicing music together, and the record shop manager Francis suggested we do a small performance together.”

The duo will perform at Black Star Records in the High Street on 9th June at 6.30pm, and plan to debut a song they have written titled ‘Mr Aneurysm’.

Francis said: “Jon suffered a catastrophic stroke over 18 months ago [and] his whole world changed.

“He is a very well loved and cheeky character in the village, with friends and acquaintances throughout our small community.

“He has always loved music, been involved in music and been a very keen amateur guitarist and songwriter his whole life. A talent and love that his aneurysm cruelly stripped from him.”

He added: “Jon's stroke nurse suggested playing music again could help his recovery.

“Paul has supported Jon every single day – the transformation in Jon was almost immediate after they started playing together.

“Jon's mood, memory, activity and wellbeing flourished as Jon and Paul’s friendship in music supported both on an amazing journey.”

The event also aims to raise enough money to buy Jon his dream guitar, a 1980s Aria Pro II, through a £5 raffle. The winner will receive a £50 voucher.

Francis added: “His long term goal is to write a few songs and invite others with brain injuries to join his amazing musical band of brothers and sisters.”

To buy a raffle ticket visit https://bit.ly/3oKKGwu