Pipes Magazine Radio Show Episode 647
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Kevin Godbee - Feb 4, 2025
- 1 min read
Welcome to The Pipes Magazine Radio Show Episode 647. Our featured guest on tonight’s show is Sykes Wilford. Sykes is the Founder and CEO of SmokingPipes.com, and Laudisi Enterprises. Brian and Sykes will discuss the Japanese pipe maker Hiroyuki Tokutomi. Unfortunately, Tokutomi passed a week ago on January 28, 2025 at the age of 76 after being hospitalized with pneumonia. Sykes knew him well from a friendship and business relationship that spanned over 20 years. He was considered by many to be one of the best pipe makers in the world with his innovative designs. At the top of the show, Brian will have a tobacco review of Low Country Waccamaw, which is a Virginia-Perique blend with some Izmir Orientals.
Brian Levine
Episode 647. Sykes Wilford discusses pipe maker Tokutomi.
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Bridging East and West: Hiroyuki Tokutomi Remembered by Sykes Wilford
The Pipes Magazine Radio Show features interviews with pipe makers, tobacco blenders, pipe and tobacco aficionados, collectors, and more. Episodes air every Tuesday.
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Written by Kevin Godbee
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I enjoyed the nice review of Waccamaw.
That was a splendid homage to Tokutomi. Sykes’ memories of his long relationship with him and how the great pipe maker grew as an innovative artist and his impact on the craft were obviously heartfelt and touching. The fun look at Tokutomi’s love of Bluegrass music, his guitar playing and visiting the Western wear store to buy hats and boots was such a wonderful aspect of who he was.
May his memory be eternal.
Ray LaMontagne’s “Long Way Home” was just the right note of remembering the good things and knowing that they will pass.
I had a toothpick holder of Jack Daniel’s to toast your rant.
Thanks for another always entertaining and thought-provoking show.
Dino