Aaron Govern, a Hot Press subscriber since the 80s, passes away

Aaron Govern, who described himself as Hot Press' longest-running subscriber, has sadly passed away. An eternal music fan, he lived most his life in the UK but was always connected by heritage and love of music to Ireland.

Last October, as Hot Press geared up to release its 1000th issue, we asked Aaron to share his thoughts on the magazine.

He had this to say:

"Holding that unique edition in my hands, I was utterly transfixed by the content of this previously undiscovered magazine, which at the age of 16 was good beyond my highest expectations. Here was a publication which would not only connect me to my Irish heritage, but also offer stunning and wide-ranging articles and features on music, the arts, politics, books, film, sport and theatre.

"And it did. This was a magazine that would become an intrinsic part of my life ever since, and which has greatly influenced me, in my thoughts and beliefs.

"Following that initial purchase, I realised that I couldn’t reliably buy Hot Press in England, and so I subscribed. Over 35 years later, I still get that rush of excitement at the sound of the letterbox opening and closing on a Saturday morning every fortnight, with the newly published edition of Hot Press landing on the mat.

"It never fails to excite me. Time stops. I literally rip off the wrapping, and turn straight to the front cover, and then the contents page. I anxiously think about which part of the issue to read first, before ploughing on into – and through – the rest of the writing."

Aaron was much loved and will be sorely missed – this is a great loss to the music community. Fans are some of the most important parts of any musician's (or indeed artist's) career. You can read Aaron's full story here.