The End of an Era: Remembering Viv Savage of Spinal Tap, David Kaff
David Kaff, the musician best known for his iconic portrayal of keyboardist Viv Savage in the groundbreaking 1984 mockumentary This Is Spinal Tap, has passed away. The news was shared by his band, Mutual of Alameda’s Wild Kingdom, via a heartfelt Facebook post on July 13th, celebrating his sharp wit and generous spirit.While a specific cause of death has not been publicly disclosed, his loss is deeply felt within the music community and among fans of the film, which remains a cultural touchstone nearly four decades later.
From Spinal Tap too a Continued musical Journey
Kaff’s role as Viv Savage, the perpetually unlucky and flamboyantly dressed keyboardist, cemented his place in comedy and music history. This Is Spinal Tap, frequently enough credited with defining the mockumentary genre, has influenced countless films and television shows, including The Office and Modern Family. The film’s enduring popularity – it consistently ranks among the greatest comedy films ever made, with a 95% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes as of late 2023 – speaks to its timeless humor and insightful satire of the rock and roll lifestyle.
However, Kaff’s musical career extended far beyond his time with Spinal Tap. Despite the film’s success,he did not participate in the recording sessions for the band’s fictional subsequent albums,Break Like the wind (1992) and Back from the Dead (2009). Rather, he continued to actively pursue music, collaborating with Oakland-based band Model Citizenz and, most recently, contributing his talents to the psych-rock sounds of Mutual of Alameda’s Wild Kingdom. This demonstrates a lifelong dedication to his craft, independent of the fame associated with Spinal Tap.
A Lasting Legacy and Philosophical outlook
Kaff consistently expressed affection for the character of Viv Savage throughout his career. In a 2011 interview with BAM, he revealed a fondness for the role, stating he held the character “very close to my heart…just a little bit dimmer,” and playfully suggesting that those who connected with Viv Savage would likely find common ground with him personally.This suggests a comfortable relationship with the persona that brought him widespread recognition.
Though he will not be involved in the highly anticipated spinal Tap sequel, currently slated for release in March 2024, Kaff will forever be remembered for delivering the film’s final, and perhaps most memorable, line: “Have a good time all the time-that’s my philosophy, Marty.” This simple yet profound statement encapsulates a joyful outlook on life,a sentiment that clearly resonated with those who knew him,as evidenced by the outpouring of tributes following his passing. It’s a philosophy that continues to inspire fans to embrace positivity and find enjoyment in everyday experiences.