Chronicles of Nicky Spade

By Janice Williams and Tracey Rey

Stars are born...legends are made...then there's Nicky Spade.


Nicky Spade was a dreamer. There was no way he would live and die in his hometown, Middleton, Michigan. Unexpectedly fate would step in and grant him his wish. Surprisingly he would get everything his heart desired, but with all good things comes challenges. Unforeseen events would change Nickys life forever. The only question he forgot to ask himself was, Does getting everything youve ever wanted mean ANYTHING if you lose the one you love?

• Language: English
• Publisher: AuthorHouse
• Release date: May 12, 2014
• ISBN: 9781491874448

Janice Williams

Janice Williams resides in Northern California with her adorable Yorkie, Fritz. Having been the wife of a military spouse, Janice believes her travels have contributed to her love of writing and brought unique characters and locations to life in her books. Her best days are spent writing or reading. Janice firmly believes that reading can change a person's perspective on life and is the greatest journey one can take without leaving home.

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© 2014 Janice Williams. All rights reserved.

No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted by any means without the written permission of the author.

Published by AuthorHouse   05/08/2014

ISBN: 978-1-4918-7449-3 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-4918-7448-6 (hc)

ISBN: 978-1-4918-7444-8 (e)

Library of Congress Control Number: 2014905386

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and such images are being used for illustrative purposes only.

Certain stock imagery © Thinkstock.

Because of the dynamic nature of the Internet, any web addresses or links contained in this book may have changed since publication and may no longer be valid. The views expressed in this work are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, and the publisher hereby disclaims any responsibility for them.

Contents

Prologue

Chapter One: Middleton… . the Middle of Nowhere

Chapter Two: The Costs of Wishing on a Star

Chapter Three: A Whole New World

Chapter Four: Love Affair… No Ties Required

Chapter Five: A Twist of Fate

Chapter Six: A Star is Born

Chapter Seven: Missing Pieces

Chapter Eight: Rock and Roll

Chapter Nine: Hollywood

Chapter Ten: It’s in the Genes

Chapter Eleven: The Hard Rock Years

Chapter Twelve: Regrets, Reminisces, Rebirth

Chapter Thirteen: The ‘Son’ Comes up in Quebec

Epilogue

Dedication

This book is dedicated to the fans who buy concert tickets to watch their favorite artists. The time spent between a performer and his audience is magic. Music has the ability to transport us to a place where time and space are irrelevant. It connects us soul to soul. Music is the universal language of mankind. Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

To our beloved children and grandchildren: Sherrie & Andy, David & Lindsey, Tia, Kevin, Julie, Dovey, Emma, Hope, Trinity, Wilney, Mac and Nina.

A special acknowledgement to my wonderful husband, Robert Williams and loving parents, Mr. & Mrs. Eugene Griner.

With God All Things Are Possible

Prologue

Looking down at his watch, it was almost 8:00 p.m. Nicky lit up his third cigarette of the evening as smoke permeated the air in the quaint bar where he sat anxiously waiting. With trembling hands, he raised a tall glass of bourbon to his lips. Momentarily, Cameron would walk on stage. He’d never imagined his life would inspire anyone, least of all his son. With grey hair and thin appearance, Nicky had aged rather too quickly from the hard years spent living the life of a rock star. He had little resemblance to the image he was so well remembered for. Sitting here unbeknownst to others around him, sat a living legend, someone who had greatly influenced the world of music. Nicky’s long career in the music industry had seen him perform in front of dignitaries and royalty. His albums had sold into the hundreds of millions worldwide. There had been numerous books and movies detailing his remarkable career. Tonight, he was once again experiencing those same emotions which had driven him to the pinnacle of fame and fortune. However, this time it wasn’t about him.

As the band began their warm-up, the sounds resonating from backstage sent chills throughout his body. He could easily relate to the nervous tension which he knew Cameron felt. No matter how many times he’d performed, the sheer terror of going on stage in front of an audience never left him. It had been the one constant in his career which had given him the edge to perform at his best. It only disappeared when he saw the excitement shown by his adoring fans that he could relax and lead into his first song of the evening. After the initial jolt of fright, he would begin to feed off the energy and passion of those who had come to watch his performance. It was always at this instant he became a true artist in every sense of the word, destined to being the legendary performer his audience had come to see. Now, it was Cameron’s turn. Cameron was young, but well on his way to making the world take notice.

As the curtains opened, the small audience came alive with enthusiasm. Nicky knew those who had come this evening would not leave disappointed. Cameron was indeed a chip off the old block. He was tall and thin with wavy black hair. Cameron had inherited his father’s handsome appearance, his strong vocals and the ability to deliver any song with magnetism.

His talent for singing was way beyond his years. Cameron carried within him the genes of a rock star. Looking up at his son, he felt many different emotions. Nicky knew in his heart that Cameron’s life was about to change in ways he never thought possible.

After finishing his first song, Cameron gave recognition to someone of importance in the audience, little did they know the significance. No one could have kept Nicky Spade from being here this evening. He’d lived a remarkable dream. This evening Cameron Spade or ‘Ace’ as he lovingly referred to him, seemed destined to be on the same path. Wiping tears from his eyes, memories flooded Nicky’s mind. He started to reflect back on how his own journey had begun.

Chapter One

Middleton… .

the Middle of Nowhere

We run away all the time to avoid coming face to face with ourselves author unknown

It had been snowing all day in the small rural town of Middleton, Michigan. The previous winter had set records for the coldest temperatures in over a decade. Inevitability, the Midwest had seen more than its average snow fall. As a result, the spring of 1970 was proving to be harsh.

Walking in, Nicky was still reeling from the shocking news that was circulating at Middleton High. Everyone was devastated to hear the Beatles had just disbanded via a press release from England. Unfortunately, he’d missed his opportunity to see them perform. This was the turning point which catapulted Nicky further in the direction of his goal. Middleton held nothing for him. He knew that remaining in this insipid town would dissolve any aspirations of pursuing his dreams. Some believed rock and roll would never be the same. However, the world was yet to meet Nicky Spade.

All he wanted to do after hearing this upsetting news was change clothes and go over to Larry’s for band practice, hoping to get today’s events off his mind. Entering the kitchen, Nicky could smell an enticing aroma. Joan, his mother, could be seen lifting a huge pan from the oven.

Hey Nicholas, I need you to get the shovel and clear the front sidewalk before your father gets home. The snow has accumulated really fast, she mentioned sitting down her delectable dish of lasagna.

Nicky was a reflection of his dad. His Italian heritage was evident through his olive complexion and black hair. However, his most striking feature was his deep blue eyes and handsome profile.

The familiar sound of his mother’s voice wasn’t the first thing he wanted to hear, after coming in from a stressful day at Middleton High. Why was he the only one who knew how to shovel snow? Why hadn’t she asked Tony, his brother? He could have easily done the job? He’d remained at home after graduating from Middleton while he attended the local vocational school. His ambitions had always been to become an auto mechanic, a fair trade for someone being born and raised in Middleton.

Their father, Joseph Spade, worked at the Ford Plant. He’d always thought his sons would someday follow him into the business. However, Nicky had no interest in cars or anything related to them. He was a dreamer and his dreams didn’t include Middleton. Nicky was always trying to devise a plan which would take him far away from this pathetic place he called home.

Nicholas, please don’t make me have to tell you again. I need you to clear the sidewalk and don’t forget to throw down some salt. I’m hosting the women in my Bridge Club tonight, she reminded him once again.

Alright, but after supper I’m going over to Larry’s house. We’re having band rehearsals tonight in Larry’s basement.

Nicky had inherited his mother’s natural talent for singing. After years of practice, he’d become an awesome guitarist. He was the lead vocalist and played a mean guitar as well in the small band he’d formed with his friends at school. At this time, it was more of a hobby than a serious effort. However, little did the other members of the band know how serious Nicky’s aspirations were? He knew one day soon, he would get his ticket out of Middleton.

Nicky hurriedly finished the sidewalk. He was anxious to get inside and get warm. Now making himself a huge plate of lasagna, he ate quickly and went over to Larry’s. The only thing on his mind was getting together with the boys in the band and rehearsing. Middleton High had more than its share of boy bands in the seventies. However, theirs was unique. It had ‘Nicky’ on guitar singing lead vocals. Nicky borrowed his mother’s car. After driving only a few short blocks, he parked in front of Larry’s. Grabbing his guitar, he quickly ran up to ring the doorbell. He was freezing. He needed to get inside and out of the relenting snow. Hopefully, the snow plows would make a run down the street before he left.

Hey man come on down to the basement, everyone’s already here, Larry remarked as he opened the door.

Larry was more of a jock than a serious musician. He was the star quarterback for the Middleton High football team. Nicky thought he didn’t par up with the rest of the members of the band as far as his musical abilities were concerned. However, Larry was a cool guy and his parents allowed them the use of their basement for band practice. They tolerated the noise level, along with the ever constant parade of young men coming in and out of their house. If it wasn’t for this fact, he was sure the band could have easily used a more talented guitarist. Still, Larry was a decent musician and no one was about to oust him from the band, at least not at this moment.

Walking downstairs and entering the huge basement, Nicky could see the other band members had already arrived and ready to practice.

Hey, where have you been? That was shocking about the Beatles, wasn’t it? Bet you had your face glued to the television watching the news or did Aunt Joan have you busy doing chores again? Jerry laughed.

Jerry and Nicky were cousins. Their mother’s, Joan and Joyce, were twins and, as a result had always been very close. Joan had turned down a career in music to marry Nicky’s dad. The boys shared a strong family resemblance between them. However unlike Jerry, Nicky always seemed to easily catch the attention of all the girls at school.

No, just finished off some lasagna before coming over.

Oh yeah, and you didn’t bring us all some, Justin teased.

Sitting behind the drums was a young guy who was short and pudgy. He was by far the best drummer at Middleton High. The boys were lucky to have him as a member of their band. All at once an amp cord was thrown over in Nicky’s direction.

Good catch hope you enjoyed that lasagna, Jerry grinned with a bit of sarcasm.

Hey bro, I’m not that late. You could have easily stopped by and picked me up.

Oh, I had to run over to the Ford Plant and drop Joy off at work. Her car is in the shop and she’s working the late shift.

Joy was Jerry’s older sister. Middleton offered its residence no opportunity at a higher education, outside of trade schools. Dooming them for the most part to a fate of spending their entire life working at the Ford Plan. Except for the lucky few, who happened to own and operate the small shops located downtown on Main Street.

Well, are you going to just stand there or are you ready to warm up? Jerry asked grabbing his bass. Jerry was good and he could hold his own with any group of musicians. However, he was quite the showman and most of the time his antics were too outrageous for Nicky.

Let’s do, Wild Thing, Nicky suggested picking up his guitar.

He was talented and often felt frustrated being a member of this small band. He knew he was destined to become a solo artist. After finishing their first song, Nicky found himself dreaming of one day being on stage in front of thousands, at a sold out arena.

The boys would spend the entire evening practicing popular hits including ‘Under My Thumb’ by the Rolling Stones, except for the occasions when Larry’s mom would bring down pizza and soda for the boys. She would sometimes sit in, listening to them practice. Looking down at his watch, Nicky discovered it was almost 11:00 p.m. and on a school night it was time to stop.

Larry, I know football practice was cancelled for Wednesday afternoon, so would it be okay to get together for rehearsals say about 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday?

Sure that’s cool.

The weekends were always out due to sports. You were nobody in Middleton, if you weren’t seen at the Friday night football games. With nothing more to do in town except the movies, the game was the highlight of the week.

Jerry, don’t forget to have your mom call mine in the morning, I think they’re going to the flea market tomorrow.

Okay, see you later, Jerry said closing the door.

Reaching for his jacket, Justin looked over at Nicky.

Hey, can you give me a ride home?

Sure, you’re on my way. Let me get my guitar.

Stopping in front of Justin’s house, Nicky couldn’t help but let him know what a talented drummer he was.

Man, if I ever make it to the big stage, I’m taking you along for the ride.

Oh yeah, call me when that happens, Justin laughed getting out of the car.

Walking in, it was 11:30 p.m. Nicky was hoping to get upstairs and into bed before his mom discovered the time.

Nicholas, do you know it’s almost midnight? What did I tell you about being home by 10:00 p.m.?

Oh mom, it’s not midnight. It’s only a little after 11:00 p.m.

Whatever Nicholas, you know the rules, his dad yelled up the stairs.

Nicky’s parents were not exactly control freaks, but they did try to keep a close watch on their two sons. Nicky and Tony had an older sister, Annie. She had long since moved away from home when she married her high school sweetheart, Joey Morgan, at the young age of eighteen. They now lived in upstate Michigan where he was pursuing his law degree. Now with Annie no longer at home, it had left Nicky and Tony striving to live up to Annie’s reputation. She had been the perfect child if you were to believe his parent’s side of the story. Didn’t his parents realize they were now left with two boys at home? Shouldn’t they be allowed a little room for getting into trouble? They were good parents. However, Nicky dreamed of the day that he too would leave Middleton, just as Annie had done. Jumping into bed, his last thoughts were that his dreams were too big for this place. Nicky Spade was getting out one way or the other.

Nicky was awakened by the sounds of the train which routinely passed near the edge of town every morning. Looking over at his alarm clock, it was almost 7:00 a.m. Another day in the middle of nowhere, he moaned. Deciding to skip breakfast, Tony was waiting to give him a ride over to Middleton High. As brothers they shared their father’s handsome Italian profile, but were completely different in personality. Tony was content to live and die in Middleton, however, Nicky would rather die than remain in Middleton.

Bro, you better get a move on. You’re not going to make me late for my class on engine repairs, Tony ranted as he walked downstairs.

Cool your wheels Tony. You’re not going to be late.

Taking a seat in first period Algebra, Nicky couldn’t help but notice the stares coming from the new girl sitting across from him. Her name was Jenna. Her dad had just accepted a new job at the Ford Plant and as a result they had relocated from Quebec, Canada. Middleton was such a small town, certainly this must have been a hard place to wind up. She was amazing. She was tall and slender with long blonde hair which she wore pulled back with hair clips. She also had the most beautiful green eyes he’d ever seen. Sitting at her desk wearing bell bottoms, a pink sweatshirt and sneakers, Nicky thought she was absolutely stunning.

Hey, I’m Jenna, she said reaching down to pick up her pencil as it rolled under her desk.

Looking up at him, she smiled.

For once, Nicky was almost speechless.

Yeah, I know. My cousin, Jerry has chorus with you. He mentioned you just moved here with your family from Canada. How do you like living in the U.S.?

Oh, I’m used to being on this side of the border. Most of our family now lives in the United States.

Well, maybe I’ll see you around sometime.

It would be sooner than he thought, as she also shared his next class, English Literature.

After the Algebra class ended, they walked down the hall together in deep conversation. They were now carrying on a lengthy discussion about how they both detested homework. Nicky found himself becoming attracted to her. Looking into her eyes with her long dark eyelashes and sculptured brows, she was gorgeous. Maybe he should ask her out? If he didn’t act quickly, he was sure Jerry would.

Are you going to the game Friday night?

Yes, my parents figured it would be a great way to make some new friends.

Well, why don’t I pick you up? We can go to the game and get pizza afterwards. How does that sound?

Okay, that sounds like fun.

I’ll introduce you to some of my friends at the game.

Awesome, I can’t wait until Friday, Jenna smiled taking a seat in the lit class. Oh, here’s my phone number. Call me later tonight and I’ll explain how to get over to my house.

Thanks, Nicky said quickly taking the number as the teacher walked into the room.

He couldn’t wait to find Jerry and let him know that he’d finally met Jenna. Friday evening couldn’t come soon enough for him. He was anxious to spend more time with her.

Game night had finally arrived. Nicky parked in front of Jenna’s house and quickly ran up the steps to ring the doorbell. As the door opened, she looked pretty wearing jeans and a red sweater. She had pulled her hair back into a ponytail.

Wait just a second, while I grab my purse.

Walking out on the porch, Jenna stopped for a second while Nicky helped her into her jacket. She looked stunning and Nicky couldn’t wait to be seen with her at the game.

Arriving at the high school, they held hands as they walked over to the stadium. Sitting at the top of the bleachers, they watched as loyal fans of the Middleton Eagles filled the empty seats.

Hey over here, Nicky yelled as he saw Jerry walking up the bleachers.

Hi Jenna, Jerry said taking a seat next to Nicky.

He wasn’t exactly surprised to see Jenna with Nicky. He always seemed to attract the best looking girls at the high school.

Hey Jerry, nice to see you again, she smiled.

It was turning out to be an exciting game, sitting in the stands watching the Eagles play their rival school, the Bull Dogs. As the evening air became cooler, Nicky put his arm around her to keep her warm. During the half time performance, Nicky and Jenna walked down to the refreshment stand with Jerry to get a drink. Nicky felt so lucky to have her by his side at the game and proudly introduced her to some of his friends, who had also grown up in Middleton.

Nicky, who’s the hot blonde? Bobby asked being obnoxious.

Jenna Jones, her family just moved down from Quebec.

Hi Bobby, nice to meet you, Jenna blushed.

Jerry went back to his seat in the bleachers, while Nicky and Jenna walked down to the fifty yard line. Nicky introduced her to Dovey, the captain of the cheer team. She was your typical cheerleader, cute and energetic. Nicky knew everyone at Middleton High. With half time almost over, they made their way back up the steps of the bleachers to their seats next to Jerry. It seemed the second half of the game flew by quickly. Larry scored the winning touchdown of the evening. The Eagles had beat the Bull Dogs and it was time to celebrate with pizza.

Hey Jerry, Jenna and I are going over to Vinnie’s Pizza. Do you want to go with us?

No, but thanks for asking. I’m going to play pool with some of the boys later on, Jerry yelled running down the bleachers as he made a fast exit.

Okay man, see you later.

As they hurried back to the parking lot, snow flurries began drifting downward from the night sky and the temperature seemed to be plummeting. Nicky put his arm around Jenna to keep her warm. Quickly getting inside the car, Nicky turned on the heater for the drive over to Vinnie’s.

So how did you like the game this evening?

Well to be honest, I’m not much of a sports fan. But, I’m glad that our team won. Thanks for taking me to the game and introducing me to your friends. Jenna shivered as she put her hands up to the warm heat.

Okay so you’re not a sports fan, but you do like pizza, right?

Yeah definitely, she smiled.

Good answer, Nicky winked.

Parked in front of Vinnie’s, Nicky opened her car door and held her hand tightly as they made their way through the snow which was beginning to cover the sidewalk. Once inside they walked up to the counter to order.

So what’s your favorite? Nicky asked handing her a menu.

Oh, I’m pretty particular. I like pepperoni and black olives with extra cheese.

That’s not hard to remember, I like all the toppings.

After placing their order they found an empty booth and went over to sit down.

Boy, I’m starving, Nicky said as the food was brought to their booth. Conversation between the two of them was easy, as they sat enjoying their pizza. Looking down at his watch, Nicky discovered it was almost 11:00 p.m.

Wow, guess I better get you home. It’s getting late.

Driving back to Jenna’s house, Nicky knew in his heart that he was beginning to feel a strong connection to her. Walking her up to the door,

Nicky stopped for a moment. Against his better judgment for a first date, he quickly gave Jenna a gentle kiss on her cheek.

Thank you for such a wonderful evening, he smiled.

I really enjoyed myself tonight. Thanks for taking me to the game.

Jenna before I leave, the boys and I are getting together on Wednesday for band practice around 6:00 p.m. would you like to go and meet them?

Yes, I’d love to.

Okay, then I’ll stop over and pick you up around 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday.

Sounds great, I can’t wait.

Monday morning seemed to arrive early, the weekend was over. It was another school day at Middleton High. Walking down the hall, Nicky could see Jenna in the distance. Quickly catching up to her, he grabbed her hand as they walked into first period Algebra.

Would you like to go over to the A & W drive in after school and get a soda?

Sure, that sounds like fun. But first, I’ll need you to take me home. I need to let my mom know.

Great, I’ll take you home after school. Holding hands as they walked through the halls, everyone who saw them thought they were the perfect couple.

It wasn’t long before Wednesday evening had arrived. Jenna agreed to drive over to Nicky’s house and ride with him to Larry’s. Walking up to the door, Jenna looked nice in her black corduroy jeans, grey sweater and knee high boots.

Hi come in. I guess you must be Jenna? Tony inquired as he opened the door.

Yes, nice to finally meet you. I’ve heard a lot about you from Nicky.

Well, I hope it’s all good. Have a seat, I’ll let him know you’re here.

Walking upstairs to Nicky’s room, Tony knocked on the door.

Hey Nicky, Jenna’s downstairs.

Tell her I’ll be right down.

Nicky had to have every hair in place. He found himself for once in his life paying attention to his appearance. Before he met Jenna he would have happily gone out with his hair tousled and wearing faded jeans. Jenna was beautiful. He knew she could easily have any guy at school on her arm, so it was important that he looked his best.

Running downstairs, he saw her sitting on the sofa.

Hey Jenna, are you ready to go meet the boys?

Jenna’s parents had been very strict, not allowing her to be out late during the week. Finally, she was able to accompany him to a band rehearsal.

Yeah, let’s go. You’ve told me so much about them, I feel like I already know them personally. However, you and Jerry seem more like brothers than cousins.

Well, we’ve always been very tight. Italian families are known to be close. We do everything together, especially holidays, Nicky mentioned grabbing his jacket from the closet.

You’re so lucky to have Jerry.

Jenna had been an only child. She’d always felt deprived and lonely not having siblings. Now having met Nicky, she felt like a stage three clinger, hanging on to him for dear life. He’d quickly become the most important thing in her world, her everything. Jenna knew how vital the band was to Nicky and she was anxious to finally meet the boys who were so close to him. You didn’t get to know Nicky without first knowing of his aspirations to leave Middleton. He had a burning desire to one day become a huge rock star, writing and performing his songs before millions. Jenna wasn’t sure she shared his dream, but she liked him enough to support any crazy idea he might have.

It wasn’t long before they were parked in front of Larry’s. With his arm wrapped tightly around her, they walked up to the front porch.

Hey man, come in, Larry said opening the door.

Hey Larry, this is Jenna.

Hi Jenna, wait till the boys see you. Come on down to the basement.

Thanks, nice to meet you. I already know Jerry, but don’t think I’ve met Justin, she said carefully descending the stairs.

Walking into the small room, Justin came over seeing her with Nicky. Hey Nicky, who’s this cute blonde?

Jenna, please meet Justin, our drummer. He’s pretty talented," Nicky mentioned as he walked over to get a chair.

Nice to meet you Jenna, I’ve seen you two together around school. Jerry told me a lot about you. How do you like living in Middleton?

"It’s great, especially now that I’ve met