:: Saturday, March 19, 2005 ::

Spreading the news about the blues

LAMPOC, CA. (March 16)—For Central Coast musician Robert Thomas, the blues is more than just a genre of music.

"The Blues is not an easy type of music to play because it's a matter of soul," said Thomas, whose real name is Robert Thomas Bucy. "You can say with two or three notes more than you can with 15 or 20."

While fun to play, it can also be therapy for life's darker moments, the Santa Barbara-based guitar musician added.

"Everybody has a few things in life that will bring them down, so you can go ahead and heal yourself by playing and listening to the blues."

Thomas has a new album out called Every Night and Every Day. A carpenter by day, Thomas plies his music trade at local night clubs throughout Santa Barbara County.

He will perform at Sugar Magnolias from 8 to 10 p.m. Saturday, March 26. Special guest guitar player Randy Cobb will also perform.

The verses of classic blues songs, usually dealing with some kind of personal misfortune, typically uses a four-bar line of verse repeated twice, and a different third line that rhymes with the first verse. However, as Thomas plays it, there's much more going on.

One song on the album that Thomas co-wrote is "Till the Day I Die," which he penned on the road on his way back from performing at the Monterey Pop Festival in 1997. The song is about love, as the lyrics reveal: "Now if the pain is all you feel/And your heartache baby, you just can't conceal/ I'm gonna love you, yes I'm gonna love you, and I always will."

At the time he wrote it, Thomas didn't have anybody particular in mind, but now he says the song is more meaningful. The song is a duet on the album with his girlfriend, fellow musician Cinder Jean.

The first track on the album, "Me and My Woman," a Shuggie Otis tune, is a funky, rollicking love-hate tale that hits home for a lot of relationships.

The opening verses are a humorous story of a man, a woman: "Me and my woman, don't get a long but one day at a time/ me and my woman don't get along but one day at a time/one day we're fussin' and fightin', the very next day we're doin' fine/Monday we're lovey dovey, Tuesday we don't even speak, Wednesday night she fix me a steak/Thursday night I don't even eat."

While the song is a cover, Thomas' riff voicing displays the virtuosity of a seasoned soulman. Thomas said the nice thing about the blues is that you can take any song and make it your own.

"You can put your personality to it by singing it a different way and playing it a different way," said Thomas, a Texas native.

The new album is live and Thomas said "Every Night and Every Day" is meant to show the listener what his live gigs sound like.

"I try to bring the people into what I'm doing by not having a pretentious stage presence," Thomas said. "Its not all about me; it's about us (the spectators and me). You want to bring the crowd as close as you can to what you're doing."

Thomas said he loves getting the crowd with his guitar.

"All audiences are different obviously, but you look out and you see somebody smiling, bobbing their heads and tapping their foot you know you got somebody," Thomas said. "Just start pumping out the music and eventually it will all melt away. They'll feel the beat. They'll feel the groove."

Thomas' musical journey began when he happened to catch a B.B. King performance on television. He lists his musical influences as guys like Buddy Guy, Stevie Ray Vaughn, Jimmy Vaughn and Jimmy Hendrix.

"I was captivated by the blues when I was young," Thomas remembers. "B.B. King is definitely the king of the blues. He's been it longer and harder than anybody."

Playing professionally since the age of 18, Thomas jams at Santa Barbara gigs nearly every weekend. Many may remember him from the Santa Barbara blues band the Crawdads.

He hopes his next audience will have a good time with his music and these words:

"Forget all your cares, leave it all behind and enjoy life, Thomas said. "Dance, have something to drink and give your girlfriend a big old hug and say, 'I love you."

Source: Neil Nisperos, Lompoc Record

:: Les Coles Saturday, March 19, 2005 [+] ::

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Eric Steckel--Little Boy Blue

Eric Steckel at the Sarasota Blues Fest - November 2003


New Jersey (March 18)—At 14, "Bluesman" Eric Steckel sounds like a seasoned, streetwise blues performer.

From his new home in Sarasota, Fla., the ninth-grader talks about spending his summer playing with legendary bluesman John Mayall and The Bluesbreakers on their Scandinavian tour with both gratitude and awe.

It's nice to see success hasn't ruined the teenage all-star.

"It's amazing (playing) with such a legend," says Steckel.

He's no stranger to playing with legends, in his short career Steckel has already shared stages with musicians Bob Margolin, Debbie Davies, James Armstrong, Steve Guyger, Kenny Neal, Chris Beard, Tommy Castro, Joe Kubek and Solomon Burke.

In spite of all his success -- two CDs and a European tour with Mayall, just to name a few -- Steckel says he still likes playing to the smaller crowds in his former hometown.

Among the venues on his current tour, Steckel will stop by the Bluetone Cafe in Easton tonight, at the Berks Jazz Fest in Reading tomorrow and Havana's in New Hope, Pa., on Sunday.

Then it's back down to the warmer weather for April, but Steckel says it just isn't the same as playing to Lehigh Valley crowds.

"The music scene is not really that great down here, I go back up (north) for gigs. This town (Sarastota) is not really meant for music," he says.

Steckel says he has fond memories of the Bluetone, as it's one of the first venues where he showed his blues-playing prowess. Joe Karam, the manager, there, started booking him when he was 11.

And at that time he'd already been playing for years.

He says he picked up the guitar at the age of 9 and hasn't looked back since.

Though he played both the piano and harmonica, those instruments just didn't hold the same allure for the teenage talent.

He's not really even sure why he's drawn to the guitar; he just knows he loves everything about the instrument. "I just picked it up, it's a mystery to me -- it's just something about it."

And he certainly isn't showing any sign of putting down his guitar. As far as future plans go, Steckel says he's enthusiastic but wants to take things slow.

"There's a lot of things I want to accomplish but I'm taking it one day at a time."

He says he has no other options for his life's work.

"Music is what my personality is suited for."

Source: KAT MAIN, The Express-Times

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On the Web:
Eric Steckel

:: Les Coles Saturday, March 19, 2005 [+] ::

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ROBERT PLANT Talks Blues At SXSW

AUSTIN (March 18)— It took former Led Zeppelin vocalist Robert Plant only one sentence to sum up why the spectacle that is the South by Southwest music festival continues to command such attention each year.

"The blue note is there, all the way through my life," Plant said. He credited the blues as the origin of all the music that will be heard during the event.

Plant gave the keynote address at the Austin Convention Center to officially kick off SXSW on Thursday. The four-day festival, which continues this weekend, will put 1,300 acts on 60 stages in clubs around downtown Austin.

Plant was in town in part to promote his new album, Mighty Rearranger (due in stores May 10). He and his new band, Strange Sensation, also performed at the Austin Music Hall Thursday night.

Recalling his earliest days with Band of Joy in the mid-'60s to his initial meeting with Led Zeppelin guitarist Jimmy Page, Plant said it was the regional music from Clarksdale, Miss., that had always been the spine of Led Zeppelin's dense, psychedelic rock as well as his solo work.

Plant spoke respectfully about the music of blues pioneers like Charlie Patton and John Lee Hooker and joked about his efforts to keep Led Zeppelin's signature ballad, Stairway to Heaven, off public radio in Portland, Ore., by donating to the station.

"It's not that I don't like (Stairway to Heaven), it's just that I've heard it before," Plant said, laughing.

Plant said he had never regretted rebuffing chances to reunite Led Zeppelin on a grand scale. He said Mighty Rearranger made him feel "at home."

Plant's words made the music heard during the first 24 hours of SXSW feel like points on a timeline. North Carolina singer-songwriter Tift Merritt, whose new album is Tambourine, has revamped her sound with an infusion of up-tempo rock. She sounded more like Sheryl Crow than Lucinda Williams during her set at La Zona Rosa on Wednesday.

She was followed by Elvis Costello. His hard-rockin' new album, The Delivery Man, reflects a Southern influence that no doubt came from the Memphis, Tenn., studio sessions. Songs from that album played well alongside hits like Pump It Up.

The most amazing band on Wednesday was Mono, a group of instrumental rockers from Tokyo. The band's use of stereo sound for its guitars and its progressive-rock flights of fancy overloaded the ears and enveloped the rest of the senses. If Radiohead and Yes could find a middle ground, and performed it at fighter-jet decibels, it might sound like Mono.

Source: MICHAEL D. CLARK, Houston Chronicle

:: Les Coles Saturday, March 19, 2005 [+] ::

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Slide Guitar Summit

Rhythm royalty
Guitarist Roy Rogers and the Delta Rhythm Kings celebrate 25 years of the blues
San Francisco (March 18)—Gaynell Toler couldn't believe her eyes when she first laid them on Roy Rogers at the Great American Music Hall in San Francisco.

"My first reaction was, 'Wow, he's white,' " the New Orleans native now called Gaynell Rogers remembers of that first sighting in 1980 when the Vallejo-reared slide guitarist was celebrating the release of his bluesy album with harmonica player David Burgin.

"I'd heard the record on the radio, it was a great record, and when I saw Roy I thought, 'How is this guy playing guitar like that? He's not Southern, and he's not Afro-American.' "

And he's not that Roy Rogers, although he was named after the singing cowboy to please his older brother Billy, a cowboy wannabe.

This year Gaynell and Roy celebrate the 25th anniversary of that introduction, and the 21st of their marriage. It's a silver anniversary also for the Delta Rhythm Kings, the trio fronted by Roy and in significant part promoted and publicized by Gaynell.

"We've been working the world, so to speak, for over two decades," says Gaynell, and it's clear that the couple, now based in Novato, is not about to slow down. First, there's the release of Roy's first live album, "Live! At the Sierra Nevada Brewery Big Room." He was the first musician featured in the PBS series "Sierra Center Stage," which features performers at the brewery's Big Room, a 350-seat live music venue in Chico; there's his Saturday-morning radio show on KRSH-FM in Santa Rosa; he's working on a new project with legendary cowboy songster Ramblin' Jack Elliott; and he's hosting a Slide Guitar Summit at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival next month. There are also the imminent tour dates with the Delta Rhythm Kings to Italy, Switzerland and Norway.

Roy's molten mastery of the guitar, though it's based in blues, transcends racial and national boundaries. For four years, he toured with the late blues veteran John Lee Hooker, and he's been featured on albums with Bonnie Raitt and Italian superstar Zucchero, who goes by one name.

"I'm fortunate in that I have a unique style that nobody plays like," Roy says. "You have to take all your influences, and I listened to all kinds of stuff, but it's that raw emotion that always carries the day."

Some of his earliest influences came from his mother, Luverne Rogers. "She was the kind of person -- and I probably got it from her -- if she was cleaning house and felt like playing, she'd stop and go down to the piano and just play," Roy remembers. "She played these old standards from the '30s and '40s, and she had a great ear, so I'm blessed with a great ear."


Guitarist Roy Rogers and the Delta Rhythm Kings celebrate 25 years of the blues

Rogers jams with Norton Buffalo during a "Sierra Center Stage" concert in Chico. Photo courtesy of Anita Berkow


Married to William Rogers, a veteran captain of the Liberty Ships, Luverne gave birth to Roy in Redding. The family moved to Martinez and then Vallejo, close to William's post as a supervisor of the Suisun Bay mothball fleet.

A vintage photo on the back of Roy's new "Live!" album pictures Roy as something of a rock prodigy in 1963, when he was a student at Vallejo Junior High: a short kid in a gold lamé jacket recruited into a high school dance band. In fact, he was already straying beyond rock, "taking lessons from a very influential teacher, Joe Wagner, who put me in that whole direction of Johnny 'Guitar' Watson, B.B. King, Chuck Berry and all that stuff," Roy says.

A few years later, Roy was busing down to the Fillmore Auditorium in San Francisco, not so much for the rock as for blues giants John Lee Hooker, Muddy Waters and Howlin' Wolf, whom Bill Graham integrated into his bookings.

"I never liked psychedelic music, it wasn't emotionally connected," Roy says. "The thing that did impress me was, here were these middle-aged black blues guys who were pouring their hearts and souls out on stage, no holds barred, not trying to be cool, just raw stuff. I said, 'I wanna do that.' "

In the mid '60s, the teenage bluesman started focusing on the older, rawer Mississippi Delta style of blues. This style demanded sonorous "open" tunings and the use of a bottleneck, or metal cylinder, to slide up and down the guitar's fretboard. Roy's placement of the bottleneck on the pinkie of his left hand freed him to play rhythm and baseline elements of a song, while making melody with the slide, a kind of one-man band.

Roy earned a history degree from Cal State Hayward and briefly considered the life of a club musician but decided he "didn't want to play the flavor of the month." Instead, he pursued the music closer to his heart in the company of harmonica player David Burgin, and worked day jobs to stay solvent. A comment by a Midwest critic, to distinguish the slide guitarist from his namesake, led to the naming of Roy's song publishing and record company: Chops Not Chaps.

During this same period, on the opposite coast, Gaynell Toler generated her own future career by programming and promoting talent at the University of South Florida. She continued this activity after graduation, founding a booking agency in Atlanta. When her illustrator boyfriend's contract with Levi's brought him out to San Francisco, Gaynell tagged along, ultimately making her own way in the West Coast advertising and music scene and encountering Roy at the Great American.

About three years after that first meeting, "I had parted ways with my significant other, and Roy had gone through a separation from his first wife," Gaynell recalls. The pair reconnected at one of Roy's gigs in North Beach, and began dating, despite Gaynell's conviction that "I did not want to go out with a musician, because I knew the lifestyle and I didn't think I wanted any part of it because I wanted a family and some normalcy."

Setting up housekeeping with him, Gaynell discovered that "Roy is in fact one of the most grounded human beings I've ever met, and unlike any other artist I had come across. He's kind of like an old Southern gentleman, in a way."

Gaynell assumed marketing responsibility for Roy's newly formed Delta Rhythm Kings band, recognizing that "he wanted to stick to his roots of blues and rock, and to do it in a very grassroots way." She also shared parenting of Sam, Roy's young son by his first wife.

In 1982, by a connection through his bassist, Steve Ehrman, Roy was tapped to join the touring band of one of his blues idols, John Lee Hooker. The gig lasted four years, and led to Rogers serving as producer on Hooker's Grammy-winning albums "Chill Out" and "The Healer," for which Rogers co-wrote one track with Hooker and Carlos Santana. Rogers was later recruited by Hooker for the soundtrack to Dennis Hopper's film "The Hot Spot," on which they jammed with jazz trumpeter Miles Davis. "I don't think it could get any higher than that," Roy says with a sigh about that Grammy-nominated project. "It was intense. And people I don't know will come up to me and say, 'Oh, that's my favorite soundtrack.' It's dark, and it's deep."

Hooker, in a 1991 interview with this writer, summarized his admiration for his producer and fellow bluesman. "Roy is a beautiful person," he said. "He'll tell you what he thinks, but if you don't like it, he'll let you do it your way."

In 1984, Roy and Gaynell married, and two years later, after Roy had returned to his own home and band, Gaynell gave birth to their daughter, Jessica. On subsequent tours with the Delta Rhythm Kings, "We took our kids along whenever we could," says Gaynell. "We had friends in the music business that also had young kids, and we kind of parented together."

"And we had also decided to move from the city to Novato because we wanted a family community that we could fit into," Gaynell says. "And lo and behold, we ended up in a place where a lot of musicians were doing the same thing. The kids had their rhythm in the school system, with sports and arts and theater and music."

Marin County and the wider Bay Area also provided Roy with world-class musicians for gigs and albums. Aside from current Kings Steve Ehrmann (bass) and Billy Lee Lewis (drums), they've included Norton Buffalo, Tom Rigney, and vocalist Shana Morrison, (Van Morrison's daughter), with whom Roy waxed the charming "Everybody's Angel" in 1999.

Roy recorded steadily while raising his family, releasing his first all- instrumental album of original material, "Slideways," in 2003. Several albums scored Grammy or W.C. Handy awards or nominations. Despite his success, Roy says, "I always told my kids, music should just be a part of your daily life, not a special thing." His son Sam, now a Forest Knolls resident, is an a cappella vocal artist billing himself as One Mouth Band. Daughter Jessica is studying theater at Colorado State.

Gaynell is compiling a cookbook, to be called "Gaynell's Kitchen: Natural Southern Cooking From a Down-Home Girl." It combines her roots in Southern cuisine with her activism as a breast cancer survivor. Celebrating his wife's five years clear of the disease, and following up on her earlier training as a cook in Italy, Roy financed her study at the Bauman School of Holistic Nutrition and Culinary Arts in Sonoma.

"When I was first diagnosed, I was volunteer communications director for the Marin Breast Cancer Watch for a couple of years," Gaynell says. "I met some of the most amazing women who are dealing with an epidemic of sorts, because Marin has the highest rate of breast cancer in the country.

"And when you hear you have cancer, it's pretty earth-shattering. So I've been coaching newly diagnosed breast cancer patients for a couple of years, and teaching their loved ones how to cook for them during radiation and chemotherapy so they can boost their immune system and regain clarity quicker. " Although she jokes that Southern cooking with organic foods is an oxymoron, she's tested her recipes back in Mississippi and found them accepted by bona fide Southerners.

Though Gaynell is still subject to Southern homesickness, Roy is devoted to his own home base, recently contributing a rare Roy Rogers solo gig as a fund-raiser for Rohnert Park radio station KRCB (it sold in 20 minutes, for $1, 000).

"Maybe at some point I'll make a record for a major label to get broader distribution," Roy says, "but at this point I don't really need to do that. I'm a niche player, and I can carry my niche all over the world. I'm as busy as I want to be."



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Let it slide
Roy Rogers & The Delta Rhythm Kings appear with Jackie Greene at 8 p.m. March 26 at the Mystic Theatre in Petaluma. Tickets cost $20. For more information or to buy tickets, call (707) 765-2121 or visit www.mystictheatre.com.

The Sierra Center Stage series, which featured Roy and the Kings in its debut run last year, is due out this fall in DVD format. Records by Roy Rogers & The Delta Rhythm Kings are available through Roy's Web site (www.roy-rogers.com) and the CD Baby Web site, an online record store that sells CDs by independent musicians.

Source: Jeff Kaliss, San Francisco Chronicle

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On the Web:
"The Slide Zone" - The Official ROY ROGERS Web Site

:: Les Coles Friday, March 18, 2005 [+] ::

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Viva Vinson--Vivacious Blues in Thailand

Bangkok (March 18)—Before coming to the Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel in Bangkok, Viva Vinson was at Coco Blues, one of Thailand's prime blues venues on Chaweng beach in Samui. "I loved being there and luckily for me, they kept renewing my contract," she said. But it took some time before she decided that singing was going to be what she did.

"First I wanted to be a dancer," she said. "When I was small, my mom took me to see a classical ballet and I fell in love with the idea of wearing a tutu."

Her father is African-American, her mother Italian-American, one of the Flower Power generation.

"We lived in Venice beach in Los Angeles and I had kind of a wild, bohemian upbringing in a community of artistic people," Viva explained. "They were like gypsies, but they were our people and we always supported one another.

"I went to Santa Monica Alternative High School and I started to dance professionally at 16 with NY Ballet Jazz, a show that did all the forms of African-American dance from the cakewalk through Charleston, jitterbug and up to today. In 1988 we were invited to play the Edinburgh Festival.

"Then when I was 18 I started getting acting roles _ just small parts usually in Black Youth series and sitcoms. I did commercials, too, but I wanted to take acting seriously, so I worked with the Santa Monica Community Theatre as well."

The young Viva was after some kind of entertainment or artistic career, but there was no guiding light telling her which path to choose. The thing about California is that there are always lots of doors opening, but also a lot of disappointments, and an opportunity to switch to production suggested that Viva would find more chance of a career structure.

"I started with music VDOs and did jobs with names like production assistant or production coordinator. But there was a ladder there and I was climbing the steps," she said. "I could see it leading to being a film director. Looking back, though, I know that the artistic motivation was losing out to the administrative work which was bringing in the money.

"I began to feel I was wearing golden handcuffs! It was never supposed to be about money for me. I was the creative one. I wanted to find my way artistically, and now I'd lost it."

Disillusioned, she was still able to go on working, but she knew that she was heading for a crisis.

"I did a lot of soul-searching and a lot less work," she said. "I read lists of activities going on in LA, classes, workshops and so on. I've heard people say, 'There was a voice in my head telling me to do this or that', but I never believed it would happen to me. Then I saw this ad for classes in vocal performance and I heard a voice inside me saying, 'Take the classes!'

"I had no interest in being a professional, I didn't imagine it would lead me anywhere, least of all to Asia, but I did it. And I rediscovered my passion for the theatre. I wasn't lost any more: I knew who I was.

"But the first offer of work I had was from a blues band who needed a singer. So I joined them, and you know, we weren't bad. We had a moderate success as the warm-up band for a TV series, we got gigs, and I thought 'Maybe I could make a living this way.'

"I sang in churches with professional singers in the choir and learned a lot from them. I also met agents who were booking singers for Asia, and sent them demo tapes. But I heard nothing. Life went on. I was singing, I was being myself. Then I got a call from Hong Kong. I was to start at the Shangri-La there."

This was not instant success. However much the idea of Asian culture attracted her, she was unprepared for the experience.

"I was facing a different kind of audience in a different kind of atmosphere and setting," she said. "I didn't know what the job entailed and I didn't know how to approach the audience. It was tough learning curve, but finally in my last month, I got it. They never asked me back, though; but by that time I'd made friends and contacts.

"I was taken up by hotel entertainment group and appeared in their places in China; I put my own band together and went to Shanghai _ and that's where Coco Blues came in. I had a call from the owner, Alan Sadd. He wanted a female singer and someone had recommended me. I stayed there for eight months and loved it. It's a great place, but I had to come to Bangkok. I wanted to be where there was more music happening and where I could meet other singers."

During her engagement at the Royal Orchid Sheraton, she has made good discoveries.

"I know where to get my hair done and where to go for yoga classes every day," she said. "And I have some terrific musicians with me. Playing in the Lobby Lounge is full of surprises. One night the place was absolutely full with a group of English tourists who wanted to dance. Other nights you get just a few people who really want to listen, and that's very rewarding. But you have to give people what they want. And we can do that."

With her on the stage are Canadian pianist Peter Esau, guitarist Sonny Males and bassist Lennie Barber from the USA, with Thai drummer, Yui. They are solid professionals who play and sing with polished intensity. They opened with a soulful, Natural Woman, with Viva, a slight figure radiating energy in a long, black ao dai she had just bought in Vietnam.

Her style is combative: she comes out and gets you. She does "Route 66" like the blues it really is, and in "People Get Ready," she and the band build up a powerful gospel sound that earned them warmer applause than is usually heard in a lobby lounge. Peter sings with a rough-edged sensitivity, Sonny sings with emotional soul and all three back Viva's solos with quiet harmony. It's good music that really gives you something to take home.

You can hear Viva and the band at the Lobby Lounge of the Royal Orchid Sheraton until March 31 from 9pm till midnight Monday to Thursday, and 9:30pm till 1am Friday and Saturday. Call 02-266-9214 for more information.

Source: Bangkok Post

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On the Web:
Viva Vinson

:: Les Coles Friday, March 18, 2005 [+] ::

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Saffire - The Uppity Blues Women

Toledo, Ohio (March 18,)—It would be difficult not to have fun at a concert by Saffire - The Uppity Blues Women, because the veteran female trio performs with contagious joy.

"I think there are two reasons for that," said singer-guitarist Gaye Adegbalola. "No. 1, if I wasn't having a good time, I wouldn't be doing it. I don't care if there was fame and fortune, I wouldn't do it. The other thing is that Saffire's a real democracy. We all get paid the same. We all get the same share of the spotlight. And we make group decisions - if one of us doesn't want to do something, then the whole group doesn't do it."

It's an arrangement that has worked for more than two decades, since Adegbalola first teamed up with guitarist-pianist-singer Ann Rabson in 1984. Multi-instrumentalist Andra Faye joined them in 1992.

The trio, who will be in concert tonight at the Ark in Ann Arbor, doesn't use a set list but has been performing together long enough that they trust each other to pick a song that fits the mood.

Adegbalola, who turns 61 on Monday, started out on a vastly different career path than as a blues artist.

"I was hoping to become a doctor, but that required a whole lot of work and a whole lot of study and I was too much of a party girl," she said in an interview this week. "After that, I went into [biochemical] research and then became a teacher."

She was honored as Virginia's Teacher of the Year in 1982, but as a single mother, the salary wasn't enough to support her and her son, Adegbolola said.

"So I began moonlighting, and one thing led to another thing that led to another thing that led to another," she said.

After she began performing as a solo artist, but before forming Saffire, Adegbolola took guitar lessons from Rabson.

"I played [guitar], but I didn't play her style. And when I saw her, I said, 'I want some more of this!' So I begged her for lessons."

Adegbolola, who won a prestigious W.C. Handy Award for blues expertise in 1990 for her song, "Middle Aged Blues Boogie," said she enjoys writing songs and considers it to be one of her strengths.

Her Handy Award-winning song was "revolutionary" when it came out in 1990, she said.

"I wrote it for two of my friends, older women who were dating younger men, saying, 'It's OK, go for it.' It became an anthem of sorts."

Saffire - The Uppity Blues Women will be in concert at 8 tonight at the Ark, 316 South Main St., Ann Arbor. Tickets are $20 from the box office, 734-761-1451.

Source: DAVID YONKE, Toledo Blade

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See my review of Ann Rabson's In A Family Way

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On the Web:
Saffire - The Uppity Blues Women

Related Blues Blog articles:
Uppity Blueswoman plays Blues at the Depot (3/3/2005)

Gaye Adegbalola gets uppity with Scorsese on women in the blues (3/20/2004)

:: Les Coles Friday, March 18, 2005 [+] ::

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'Lightning in a Bottle' opens in Japan

CINEMA RISE (03) 3464-0051: Lighting in a Bottle [spot The Japan Times typo :-)], 10:20 a.m., 12:40, 3:00, 5:20, 7:40 p.m.; Ray, 10:15 a.m., 1:15, 4:15, 7:15 p.m.

UMEDA GARDEN CINEMA (06) 6440-5977: Lightning in a Bottle, noon, 2:10, 4:20, 6:30 p.m.; Inu no Eiga (Japanese movie), 10:25 a.m., 12:30, 2:35, 4:40, 6:45 p.m.

CINE LIBRE KOBE (078) 334-2126: Inu no Eiga (Japanese movie), 12:35, 2:30, 4:25, 6:20 p.m.; Ray, 1:00, 3:55, 6:50 p.m.; Lightning in a Bottle, 2:40, 4:50, 7:00 p.m.; Nuan (Mandarin subtitled in Japanese), 10:20 a.m., 12:30 p.m.; Touching the Void, 10:30 a.m.; Beyond the Sea, 10:40 a.m.; Tokyo Tower (Japanese movie), 8:15 p.m.; End of the Century, 9:05 p.m.

To save you looking for back posts, here's the synopsis:

The story so far...

Director Antoine Fuqua, who directed music videos before launching his feature career, brought his cameras to New York's Radio City Music Hall in February 2003 to capture a benefit concert by more than 50 artists spanning several generations from Indie.Arie and Bonnie Raitt to Natalie Cole and B.B. King. The result is pure pleasure for fans of the blues. One can only hope this series will create more fans of an American musical form whose adherents are small in number but passionate.

"It looked like you looked in the phone book under 'Blues','" said New Orleans pianist Dr. John of the line-up including veterans such as B.B. King and Buddy Guy teamed up with younger stars like Bonnie Raitt, Aerosmith rocker Steven Tyler and rapper Chuck D.

Dr. John anchored a back-up band that played throughout the five-hour performance, accompanying octogenarians and young upstarts as they rollicked through a repertoire of standards.

B.B. King plays favourites "Sweet Sixteen'' and "Paying the Cost to Be the Boss'' on his treasured guitar Lucille while Angelique Kidjo of Benin gives an ecstatic performance of Jimi Hendrix's "Voodoo Child'' accompanied by Guy, himself an apprentice of the late Muddy Waters.

Natalie Cole, daughter of Nat King Cole, brings down the house with "St. Louis Blues'' — one of her father's earliest hits.

Chuck D, formerly of Public Enemy, transforms John Lee Hooker's "Boom Boom'' into a fierce anti-war rap on the eve of the US-led invasion of Iraq, as contemporary soul singer Macy Gray croons "Hound Dog,'' most famously covered by Elvis Presley.

India Arie sings a haunting version of Billie Holiday's 1939 anti-lynching ballad "Strange Fruit''.

And Tyler and his Aerosmith guitarist Joe Perry rip through a bawdy rendition of "I'm a King Bee''.

"It is such a fundamental kind of music to perform and its legacy had kind of been forgotten,'' producer Alex Gibney told a news conference after the screening.

"(The film) creates a lifeline between the present and the past."

"Lightning in a Bottle'' is part of a series of eight films simply called "The Blues'' that also includes a contribution by German director Wim Wenders, who made the Oscar-nominated "Buena Vista Social Club''.

That film, about long neglected Cuban musicians, and recent hits such as "Standing in the Shadows of Motown'' about the studio band behind the wildly successful 1960s Detroit label, have drawn huge audiences to the music documentary genre.

Wenders told reporters that it took a particular feeling for music to make a picture like "Lightning in a Bottle,'' directed by US filmmaker Antoine Fuqua ("Training Day'').

"Music films must above all love the music they are presenting,'' he said.

"It's got to be contagious and the music has to live on in the images and rhythm of the film.''

Steve Jordan, the musical director of the film and the concert, said it was a mixture of love, sex and heartache that made the blues one of the signature forms of American music, and as relevant as ever.

"The blues isn't always about pain and suffering,'' he said.

"A very important part of the blues is the dancing, groove, love, feeling, joyful aspect. And so we wanted to depict that.''


Performers
Aerosmith, Angelique Kidjo, Arts Militia, B.B. King, Bill Cosby, Bonnie Raitt, Buddy Guy, Chris Thomas King, Chuck D & Fine, Clarence Gatemouth Brown, David Johansen & Hubert Sumlin, Dr. John, Gregg Allman, Honeyboy Edwards, India.Arie, James Blood Ulmer & Allison Krauss, Jimmie Vaughn, John Fogerty, John Hammond, Keb' Mo', Kim Wilson, Larry Johnson, Lazy Lester, Macy Gray, Mavis Staples, Natalie Cole, Odetta, Robert Cray, Ruth Brown, Shemekia Copeland, Solomon Burke, Steve Tyler & Joe Perry, The Neville Brothers, Vernon Reid

:: Les Coles Friday, March 18, 2005 [+] ::

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Koko Taylor added to Panoply lineup

Alabama (March 15)—A blues legend and a Southern pop rock band have joined the lineup for next month's Panoply Arts Festival.

Koko Taylor, billed as the "Queen of the Blues," will perform April 23 at 8:30 p.m. on the BellSouth/Cingular Wireless Stage, as part of the Jazz and Blues Showcase sponsored by WJAB-FM 90.9.

Taylor, who began singing gospel music and was influenced by Muddy Waters, Big Mama Thornton and Bessie Smith, has collaborated with such artists as B.B. King, Melissa Etheridge and Ray Charles and appeared in the movie "Blues Brothers 2000." She previously performed here at the 1994 Big Spring Jam and the 1996 Down Home Blues festival.

Ingram Hill, a Memphis-based Southern pop quartet, will perform April 22 at 9 p.m. on the Publix Supermarkets Charities Stage. Claiming influences ranging from Elvis Presley to the Black Crowes, Ingram Hill formed in 2000 and has shared the stage with Saliva, Jason Mraz and Maroon 5.

The two acts complete the list of headliners at the April 22-24 festival in Big Spring International Park. Already announced were country artists Pam Tillis, Hal Ketchum and Chubby Checker. In conjunction with Checker's Panoply performance, sponsored by Knology (April 22 at 9:15 p.m. on the BellSouth/Cingular Wireless Showcase Stage), a free twist contest is set for April 9 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Carousel Skate Center, 1201 Winner Ave., off Leeman Ferry Road. Knology, the Arts Council Inc. and WRSA-FM Lite 96.9 are sponsoring the contest. The contest will have four categories: Preschool (must be 4 or 5 years old) sign up at 9 a.m. for a 10:30 contest; elementary school, sign up at 11 a.m. for a 12:30 p.m. contest; middle and high school, sign up at 1 p.m. for a 1:30 contest; adults, sign up at 2 p.m. for a 2:30 contest.

Each of the four first-place winners in the age categories will meet Checker and dance with him on stage.

For the first time in the festival's 24-year history, admission will be charged. Panopass is a three-day admission pass for $15. A single-day pass purchased in advance is $7; at the gate, it's $8. Adults and children over 12 must pay, but children 12 and under will be admitted free with a paying adult.

Panopasses are available at The Huntsville Times, the Arts Council Inc., Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce, the Huntsville-Madison County Visitors Center, Humphrey's Bar & Grill, Cotton Row, Sazio, AmSouth Bank, Colonial Bank, Compass Bank, First Commercial Bank and Regions Bank.

For more information, call 519-2787.

Source: HOWARD MILLER, The Huntsville Times

:: Les Coles Thursday, March 17, 2005 [+] ::

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Zydeco Shoes

Lowell, Mass. (March 17)—What if we could step outside our busy lives for a moment while visiting a more simple way of living down South, called "Cajun culture," a state of mind where food, music and art abound around every corner and language flavors everything.

This is the world readers will find themselves drawn into if they pick up first-time author Alexandria "Alex" Hayes' book, Zydeco Shoes: A Sensory Tour of Cajun Culture.

Born and raised in Maryland, Hayes began working as a marketing consultant, a job that brought her to Nashua, where she lived for 20 years. She recently moved to Stratham, where she owns and operates Blue Moon Communications. Although she has written numerous articles for business magazines, Hayes had never written a book. It was the Cajun culture that sparked the idea for a book in 1997, she says, while visiting New Orleans on a business trip.

Among all the artwork that grabbed her attention in Jackson Square, Hayes recalls that Hébert's had the biggest impact. When she asked Hébert if he had a book of his paintings, Hayes said he handed her a "little dog-eared album filled with snapshots of his paintings. Earl had never had a real book showing a collection of all of his paintings and his paintings had never been professionally photographed."

With the charm of the Cajun culture acting as a sort of magical inspiration, Hayes says the form and style of the book began to take shape. Hébert's paintings, she decided, should be accompanied by a collection of Cajun recipes. While her first thought was to contact a big-name restaurant for permission to list their special dishes, she soon decided that featuring "a real down-home Cajun place" was the better choice. That is when Mulate's, the Original Cajun Restaurant, came into the picture.

Fifty of Hébert's paintings are featured in Zydeco Shoes, all of them full-page reproductions.

Hayes' book is making its northern debut. On March 19 from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Toadstool Bookshop, Milford, Hayes will be offering autographed copies of Zydeco Shoes. Hayes also said she will be happy to answer any questions.

Source: ALLISON COTE, 1590 Broadcaster

:: Les Coles Thursday, March 17, 2005 [+] ::

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Blues and Greens; Corned Beef and Catfish

TOKYO (St. Patrick's Day)—When it comes to matters blue on this greenest of green days, one name comes to mind that links the two: Rory Gallagher.

And while corned beef may be the traditional fare on St. Patrick's Day, today I got to thinking about catfish, remembering the first time I saw Rory Gallagher play, which was at The Dome (or was it The Exchange?) in Brighton. Rory was with Taste at the time. The reformed version that is, with Richard McCracken on Bass and John Wilson on Drums.

It was around 1970, just before Taste (the second incarnation) split, so I guess that made it Richard McCracken on Bass and John Wilson on Drums.




Rory Gallagher


But I really can't remember if it was before or after the release of the self-titled 1971 album Rory Gallagher. I definately remember hearing "Laundromat " plus a lot of stuff of the earlier, and equally self-titled 1971 album Taste. He could just have been trying out the song.



Taste


But I do remember his playing and vocals. Who could forget them?

Rory came out on stage dressed in jeans and a flannel shirt looking like an ordinary Joe you could see in any bar in town. 'Cept that ordinary Joes don't have hands that can coax such amazing sounds out of steel and dead wood. Rory was one of the best guitarists I've ever seen or heard. Be it electirc, as on "Catfish", acoustic as on "Pistol Slapper Blues", or on Mandolin for that matter on "Going To My Home Town."

Far later on, I remember hearing his salute to Clifton Chenier on "King of Zydeco".

Many other people also remember Rory as the best blues-rock guitarist Ireland ever produced. June 2005 marks the 10th year since the Rory took ill on the 1995 European Tour and died on June 14. He may be gone, but he isn't forgotten. There are several 10th commemorative events planned.

Here's some basic info on them.
(For full details see: The Official Rory Gallagher Web site http://www.rorygallagher.com/)

SHEFFIELD
The 10th annual Rory Gallagher Tribute Concert
Saturday 28th May 2005 at:
The Boardwalk, Sheffield, England

Featuring: Stagestruck, an exciting 3-piece from Cork. As well as Brute Force and Ignorance. Also Sinnerboy.

Details: http://www.rorygallagher.com/sheffieldinfo.htm

---------------------------------------------------------------

BALLYSHANNON - CO.DONEGAL - IRELAND
International Tribute Festival 2005
Thursday 2nd June to Sunday 5th June 2005

Featuring:
RORY GALLAGHER'S BAND
* THE BAND OF FRIENDS *
w/ original members
Gerry McAvoy (Bass)
Brendan O'Neill (Drums)
Mark Feltham (harmonica/Vocals)
Denis Greaves (Guitar/Vocals)
& Australian Gwyn Ashton (lead Guitar/Vocals)

* RONNIE DREW & MIKE HANRAHAN *
(Dubliners) (Ex. Stocktons Wing)

* SINNERBOY *
(Manchester)

* PAT McMANUS & THE PAINKILLERS*
(EX. MAMA'S BOYS)

* BARRY McCABE BAND (Ireland) *

From well known Irish Trad Band Dervish
* SEAMIE O'DOWD BAND *

* ALASTAIR GREENE *
(California, USA)

TOP RORY GALLAGHER TRIBUTE BANDS

* THE LOOP (Germany)
* RAW GALLAGHER (England)
* JONAS ALMQUIST (Sweden)
* LAUNDROMAT (Holland)
* SHINKICKER (England)
* DEFENDER (Scotland)
* REMEMBER RORY (Germany)
* TO YOUR TASTE (Northern Ireland)
* BRIAN MEAKIN BAND (Ireland)
* JOHNNY GALLAGHER (Donegal)
* SECTION 3 (Donegal)
* CALLING CARD (Dublin)
* Barry Walsh & The Short Notice Band
* SHADOWPLAY (Dublin)

AND

A Host of more Irish Rock & Blues Bands
including CRAVE, Organised Chaos, VOXPOP, The Lowry Lad Band
& more to follow

W I T H

WORKSHOPS * * LECTURES * * FILMS * * BUSKING
and Great Craic in what will be a huge celebration of music
of the Late Great Legend ~ RORY GALLAGHER ~

Further Details - Email: barryfest@hotmail.com
All Ticket Enquiries - Email: davemojo@eircom.net


---------------------------------------------------------------

KILKENNY
Friday 10th June
10th Anniversary Tribute at :
The Ormonde Hotel, KIlkenny

Featuring: Sinnerboy and The Loop

Details: Rory O'Mahoney 353 8725 53932 romahony5@hotmail.com

---------------------------------------------------------------


DUBLIN
RORY'S 10th ANNIVERSARY at Whelans of Wexford Street on Tuesday 14th June

Featuring: Sinnerboy

Details: http://www.rorygallagher.com/dublin.htm

---------------------------------------------------------------


WIESBADEN
Saturday September 10th 2005
The 4th Rory Gallagher Review at:
Kulturpalast Saalgasse 36 Wiesbaden Germany

Featuring:
STAGESTRUCK Cork (Ireland)
BAD PENNY Rostock (Germany)

Tickets 22 euro from
www.rorysfriends.de
0049 160 367 1958

---

On the Web:
Two great Rory Gallagher sites:
http://www.rorygallagher.com/
http://www.lastoftheindependents.com/RoryHome.htm


For a gadzillion links to Rory Gallagher sites:
http://www.rory.de/

---

Now, back to the catfish:

Rory Gallagher
CATFISH
Taste - 1969

Well I wish I was a catfish, 
Swimming in the deep blue sea. 
All you pretty womens, 
Fishing after me, 
Fishing after me. 
Well, I went down to my baby's house,  
And I sat down on the steps. 
She said, "Come on in and have me, 
My old man just left,  
Just now left". 

Well, there's two trains a runnin', 
And there's not one, goin' my way. 
One runs at midnight, 
Other just for day. 
Other just for day. 
Other just for day. 
Other just for day. 
Other just for day. 

Hey.......... 

Well, she's long, 
And she's so tall, 
Well,  she shakes, 
Like a willow tree. 

They say she's no good, 
She's alright with me. 
Right with me. 
Right with me. 
Right with me. 
Right with me. 

Well I wish I was a catfish,  
Swimming in the deep blue sea. 
All you pretty women, 
Swimmin'  after me, 
Swimmin'  after me. 

I wish I was your catfish.

For a little bit on the origins of the song, and a couple of great recipes, check out this earlier post:
http://the-blues-blog.blogspot.com/2003_04_13_the-blues-blog_archive.html

:: Les Coles Thursday, March 17, 2005 [+] ::

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Beannacht Lá Fhéile Pádraig



Taithnín an mórshiúl

:: Les Coles Wednesday, March 16, 2005 [+] ::

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Irma Thomas, Frogman to play at Delta Music Fest

FERRIDAY, La. (March 14)— -- New Orleans Queen of Soul Irma Thomas and Clarence "Frogman" Henry will headline this year's Delta Music Festival on April 2.

Both performers will be inducted into the Delta Music Museum's Hall of Fame during the festival.

Discovered in a New Orleans Club in 1959, Irma Lee Thomas became a New Orleans icon and one of the most enduring soul survivors in contemporary music. From her early musical influences such as Mahalia Jackson and Pearl Bailey, Thomas produced chart-topping songs such as her debut single, "You Can Have My Husband (But Don't Mess With My Man)."

Later, she went on to be a two-time Grammy nominee and the recipient of a Pioneer Award from The Rhythm & Blues Foundation.

His trademark croak earned him the nickname "Frogman" and later with his 1956 smash hit "Ain't Got No Home," jump-started his career. Clarence "Frogman" Henry, a rock-and-roll New Orleans legend, began his journey when he joined Bobby Mitchell's R&B band in 1953. His music has been featured in several movies including Paramount Pictures’ Forrest Gump. Henry is still active today on the music scene in New Orleans, drawing sold-out crowds to his legendary performances.

The Delta Music Museum opened its doors in 2002 and is a state facility managed by the Louisiana Secretary of State’s Office. This year’s inductees join previous Hall of Famers such as Aaron Neville, Conway Twitty, Jerry Lee Lewis, Percy Sledge and Mickey Gilley in the museum.

Source: The Natchez Democrat

---

On the Web:
DELTA MUSIC MUSEUM
Irma Thomas
Clarence "Frogman" Henry

:: Les Coles Wednesday, March 16, 2005 [+] ::

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John Mayall, Dr. John confirmed forThunder Bay Blues Festival

Calif.(March 15)—Before The Beatles and The Rolling Stones blew open the doors on British popular music in the '60s, John Mayall was already a leader in the field.

Interpreting American rhythm 'n' blues for a new world generation, the Brits came overseas in waves to change forever how rock 'n' roll was made. And whenever they were asked about their influences, most would eventually talk about Mayall.

John Mayall and his Bluesbreakers have not stopped making music in all this time. Truly a world star who constantly tours the globe, Mayall brings the seminal sounds of British blues-rock to the Thunder Bay Blues Festival this summer.

Mayall and his band will be preceded on stage opening night by Canada's favourite blues rocker Colin James, making Day One of the fourth annual festival, July 8-10 at Marina Park, a standout.

The Thunder Bay Blues Festival Association (TBBFA) has also confirmed an American music icon for this year's fourth annual festival. Dr. John, the legendary Louisiana singer brings his unique blend of Creole-flavoured piano blues to Thunder Bay as the Saturday headliner.

The blues festival has always provided a variety of rootsy music and this year is no different. Ricky Skaggs has won nine Grammys over the years for his popular bluegrass music and he'll share the hits with the big Saturday night crowd, just ahead of Dr. John.

The TBBFA announced Monday some other performers for the 2005 festival:

• Roy Young who filled in so well for the ill Eric Burdon at last year's festival. (Burdon and his New Animals are making up that cancellation on May 15, bringing his many hits from the Newcastle version of the British Invasion to the Thunder Bay Community Auditorium).
• Big Walter Smith & his Groove Merchants -- perennial favourites at the Thunder Bay festival.
• Commander Cody and the Lost Planet Airmen.
• Detroit Women of Blues.
• Phil Guy, rootsy guitarist and brother of Chicago blues legend Buddy Guy, inducted last night into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
• Lucky Peterson, "the most dangerous triple threat (guitar, organ, vocals) working in the blues."
• Katrina Chester, daughter of legendary session drummer Gary Chester her EP and forthcoming first album are described as "a sultry and intoxicating blend of neo-soul, R&B, and funk.
• Manitoba Hal, "bluesman with a fondness for the ukelele."
• Billie Joyce, Nashville singer/songwriter "with a soulful, bluesy, rock edge."
• And from the recent Northwest Blues Showcase, from Thunder Bay, The Rocker Brothers, Mark Potvin & the Westfort Horns and The Tender Mercy's Band.

Bourbon Haze was selected at the showcase to play at the Windsor and London bluesfests this year. The Thunder Bay Blues Society will donate $1,000 towards Bourbon Haze's travel expenses.

More artists will be announced for the Blues Festival in coming weeks.

General tickets will go on sale at the Community Auditorium box office April 1 at $48 for a weekend pass or $25 for a daily pass. Proceeds from the event will once again go to the United Way of Thunder Bay and the Northern Cancer Research Foundation.

Source: The Chronicle-Journal

---

On the Web:
Thunder Bay Blues Festival Association

:: Les Coles Wednesday, March 16, 2005 [+] ::

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Cajun Hot Sauce Festival

Lineup:
Friday, April 1, 2005
6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Kip Sonnier and Hurricane
9:00 p.m. National Recording Artist Joe Nichols

Saturday, April 2, 2005
11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Jr. Flores & The Bayou Boys
2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Steve Grisaffe
4:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. Krossfyre
7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. T. K. Hulin & Smoke With Special Guest G. G. Shinn
9:30 p.m. National Recording Artist Percy Sledge & Blue Eyed Soul

Sunday, April 3, 2005
1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. GTO & D Street Brass
3:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Jamie Bergeron & The Kickin Cajuns

---

On the Web:
Cajun Hot Sauce Festival

For news on other festivals, check out:
Clarence's Louisiana festivals guide for 2005

:: Les Coles Wednesday, March 16, 2005 [+] ::

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Iowa man's blues collection

LaCrosse, WI (March 15)—Tom Tourville was in his 20s when he started the Iowa Great Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce about 27 years ago in Okoboji, Iowa.

He was even younger when he started his rock and blues music memorabilia collection, which has grown to include such things as a hunting bag and three shotgun shells once owned by Buddy Holly, a suit bag used by Pete Best when he was the early Beatles' drummer, and album covers signed by stars like Janis Joplin and Stevie Ray Vaughan.

After eight years as executive director of the La Crosse Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, Tourville, his wife, Avis, and his music collection are heading back to the Lake Okoboji area. Tourville announced last week he will leave his La Crosse post March 31 to become executive director of the Lakes Art Center. Tourville, now in his "early 50s," was a young man when he worked at the chamber of commerce in Okoboji. "While I was working there, I met my wife," he said. Avis is from nearby Lake Park, Iowa.

"We're going home," Tourville said of the couple's upcoming move. "Her family's there." Tourville grew up in Fairmont, Minn., about 45 miles from Lake Okoboji.

Their only child, Bill, is 19, and a freshman at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. "So we'll be making lots of visits back to La Crosse," Tourville said.

"I think Tom and his staff have provided the bureau with strong leadership and vision over the past eight years he has served as executive director," said David Ring, president of the La Crosse bureau's board. "They've positioned the La Crosse area as the destination of choice for conventions and tourists. Tom is a very skilled person who brought a lot of creativity and innovation to the job," as well as "real enthusiasm."

Ring said the board is expected to hire a consultant to assist in the search for a new executive director and in the review and implementation of the bureau's long-range plans. Office Manager Carol Daily will be interim executive director.

Tourville has written 15 books about rock music, and writes music columns for four publications, including Tapestry in Lansing, Iowa.

He began collecting rock music memorabilia when he was 12 or 13. "I'd see a cool poster for the local ballrooms hanging on a pole, and I'd go up and take them so I could decorate my room at home," Tourville said.

He began collecting records, mainly those of Midwestern bands, when he was 15. "I've collected memorabilia and autographs seriously for probably the last 15 to 18 years," Tourville said. They mainly represent three styles of music ・blues, surf (Tourville's favorite) and classic 1950s and 1960s rock.

"I do it because I enjoy the music," Tourville said. "When you own a harmonica that was owned by Muddy Waters (as Tourville does), it's a real special connection with the artist." Another framed display in his office includes a cigar box in which blues great Howlin' Wolf kept his own harmonica collection

Source: LaCrosse Tribune

---

On the Web:
Iowa RockNRoll Music Associaton

:: Les Coles Wednesday, March 16, 2005 [+] ::

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Searchin' for Blues History on PBS

History Detectives is a national prime-time series about the discovery, documentation and preservation of historic American buildings and artifacts. The format of our program is an investigation of a question posed by an individual who is interested in learning the history behind an artifact or location and its possible historical significance.

We are currently seeking story submissions from all over the country regarding American buildings or artifacts that may be historically or culturally significant. The most promising ideas are historically significant, and are still unsolved. The best objects belong to people who may not have a research background, but are enthusiastic about American history or the specific area that their object relates to.

I would like to develop stories that would permit us to talk about the history of Blues. If you are aware of individuals that might have historical questions about objects (they don’t have to be major collectors) please let me know.

For example, if there was someone who had a record but could not verify the artist or the origin of the recording and wanted to know more about where the record came from or it place in the history of the Blues. If someone had an instrument that they thought once belonged to a well known artist or a piece of sheet music that they could not identify or verify, etc. that would work as well. Also, if you have suggestions that you feel might be relevant to our show, please let me know.

Since we are in currently in production, I would love to hear from you as soon as possible. Basically, the sooner I pitch my story ideas the better chance they have of getting on air. Please feel free to e-mail or call my at your earliest convenience.

Respond to Chris by e-mail at: christ@liontv.us

Regards,

Chris Thompson Associate Producer History Detectives 304 Hudson Street, 5th Floor New York, NY 10013 212/206-8633 ext. 3861 212/206-8633 fax christ@liontv.us http://www.pbs.org/opb/historydetectives/

---

On the Web:
http://www.pbs.org/opb/historydetectives/

:: Les Coles Wednesday, March 16, 2005 [+] ::

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Rock and Roll Hall of Fame 2005: Percy Sledge

The "Golden Voice of Soul" got it right the first time

(March 8)—Percy Sledge's very first recording was far and away his biggest, but what a recording it was. The yearning, churchy ballad "When a Man Loves a Woman" was a Number One smash in 1966, and the song has enjoyed routine revivals in commercials, on soundtracks and in the variably talented hands of tribute singers from Bette Midler to Michael Bolton.

Sledge, recording for Atlantic Records in the label's late-Sixties heyday, had his second biggest hit with "Take Time to Know Her," which just missed the Top Ten in 1968. A superb match with the soulful material of songwriters Dan Penn and Spooner Oldham ("Dark End of the Street"), Sledge had a talent for putting his own stamp on familiar songs, including Otis Redding's "Try a Little Tenderness" and Elvis Presley's "Love Me Tender."

But after that initial flurry, recording opportunities dwindled for the "Golden Voice of Soul." He never left the road, however, and he recently released his first album in ten years. True to the artist's free-ranging tastes, Shining Through the Rain features songs by Steve Earle and the Bee Gees. Percy Sledge lives in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

What was your reaction to the news that you'd been inducted into the Hall of Fame?
Believe it or not, I was at the airport, trying to come from New York back to Baton Rouge. I made me a comfortable seat up by the wall, and I plugged in my cell phone to charge it up. My wife called and said, "Guess what? You've been inducted." I said, "You're kidding," and she said, "For real!" I just started floating on cloud nine. It was the same way I felt when I got my Grammy in 1966.

Had you thought about whether you deserved to be inducted?
Well, Jerry Lee Lewis is a good friend, and, when he went in, it went through my mind about me being inducted. I was praying some day I'd get in, especially while I was still alive. Guys my age -- so many great guys still haven't been inducted. I'm just glad I'm able to celebrate with my lovely wife, Rose, and my kids. I have twelve, and fifteen grandchildren.

What songs will you play at the ceremony?
Well, definitely "When a Man Loves a Woman." But we had about seven or eight big hits in a row . . . If we did a second song, it probably would be "Take Time to Know Her."

How many couples have you heard from over the years about your music and what it means to them?
Oh, so many, all over the world. I've had people come onstage with their kids, their husbands and wives, crying, telling me stories about my songs. In Europe, Africa, everywhere. That's another great feeling -- fans that love you so much and you love them back the way I do. They call me the Legend of Slow Soul, and all that. It all points toward them.

A lot of the songs you recorded had been huge hits by other artists. How did you approach making them your own?
Most singers have their idols. I remember Elvis Presley when I was a kid. When I was about sixteen, I always said I wanted to do "Love Me Tender." There are so many idols I've loved. I said if I ever got to be an artist, I wanted to do these songs. And other people doing my songs, I feel happy for them, too. Like when Michael Bolton did "When a Man Loves a Woman," I was very impressed.

You had the good fortune of working with the great songwriting team of Dan Penn and Spooner Oldham.
I had the great opportunity to work with some of the greatest artists -- the Beach Boys, the Temptations, the Four Tops. Otis Redding. Wilson Pickett. Stevie Wonder. So many great singers. And don't forget Clarence Carter!

I understand you were a hospital nurse before you started singing.
I was an orderly for about seven years. I was always singing to my patients. That was another thing I enjoyed doing. The doctors always wanted me to sing, and they told me they'd like me to be a doctor, that they'd help me as much as they could. They were crazy about me there.

"When a Man Loves a Woman" was your very first record. Looking back, were you ever disappointed you never matched that kind of success?
Every time I went into the studio, I always sung with my heart. If it came out as strong, as good, as powerful as that to my fans, then I was satisfied. I never slacked. I always did all the songs the same way as the first. Of course, every artist would like to have another record like that. In the history of music, I don't think there's ever been two of those.

The song was often revived. Were you properly compensated?
As far as I know. Like I say, I'm a country boy. I never knew much about business. But I've been made happy. The TV and commercials have been very fortunate for me and my career. And Atlantic Records has always been wonderful to me. I don't think I could have chosen a better record company.

People often call your music "country soul"? Does that sound about right to you?
Country and soul music, there's a thin line between the two anyway. A lot of my fans actually thought I was white. A lot of them have told me that just recently. They say they'd never seen a picture of me. I play the country places all over, and a lot of them, they really thought I was a white guy. "Take Time to Know Her," "Cover Me" -- those songs are really in a country flavor, you know?

Source: JAMES SULLIVAN, Rolling Stone

Tour schedule:
Fri 03/18/05 Gastonia, NC Dino's
Sat 03/19/05 Gastonia, NC Dino's
Sat 04/02/05 New Iberia, LA Cajun Hot Sauce Festival
Wed 05/04/05 Stockholm, SWE TBA
Thu 05/05/05 Stockholm, SWE TBA
Fri 05/06/05 Stockholm, SWE TBA
Sat 05/07/05 Stockholm, SWE TBA
Sun 05/08/05 Stockholm, SWE TBA
Mon 05/09/05 Stockholm, SWE TBA
Tue 05/10/05 Stockholm, SWE TBA
Wed 05/11/05 Stockholm, SWE TBA
Thu 05/12/05 Stockholm, SWE TBA
Fri 05/13/05 Stockholm, SWE TBA
Sat 05/14/05 Stockholm, SWE TBA
Sun 06/12/05 Norfolk, VA Town Point Park
Sat 06/18/05 Paramaribo, SUR NIS
Fri 06/24/05 Ville Platte, LA Smoked Meat Festival
Sun 07/03/05 Alexandria, LA Uncle Sam Jam
Mon 07/04/05 Fort Polk, LA July 4th Concert
Sat 07/23/05 Larose, LA Larose Civic Ctr.
Sun 07/31/05 Lake Harmony, PA Pocono Blues Festival
Mon 09/19/05 West Springfield, MA Big E Expo Center
Tue 09/20/05 West Springfield, MA Big E Expo Center
Wed 09/21/05 West Springfield, MA Big E Expo Center
Thu 09/22/05 West Springfield, MA Big E Expo Center
Sat 10/01/05 Abbeville, LA Cattle Festival & Fair
Thu 10/06/05 Winston-Salem, NC Stevens Center

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On the Web:
Percy Sledge Offical Web Site

:: Les Coles Wednesday, March 16, 2005 [+] ::

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O'Jays Get Hall of Fame Status, Thanks to TSOP Songmasters

Philadelphia (March 16)—The O'Jays have been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and one of the reasons for that was because of Philadelphia songwriting duo who wrote most of their hits.

Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff wrote many of the O'Jays' hit songs, and many other lyrics that epitomized the "Sound of Philadelphia."

Chuck Gamble, executive vice-president of Philadelphia International Records, says those songs brought together soul, orchestration, and music with a message:

"I think there's a need for it because much of the music today is just about beats. It's about tracks, and it's not allowing individuals to think and think about their lives. But more so, to give them a plan for the future."

Chuck Gamble says the O'Jays' hit "For the Love of Money" is now the theme song for "The Apprentice." He says tracks have also been heard in hit movies and TV shows.

Gamble and Huff were in New York City Monday night for the official induction of the O'Jays into the Hall of Fame. The event will be rebroadcast in its entirety on Saturday at 9pm on VH-1.

Source: Kim Glovas, Radio KYW

Unimpressed O'Jays slam Timberlake

The O'Jays have reacted angrily to Justin Timberlake's involvement in their Hall of Fame induction, insisting he's irrelevant to their musical achievements.

The "Love Train" veterans were introduced by the pop star at the New York ceremony, but despite generously devoting his time to honouring The O'Jays, Timberlake's presence was met with protests from the band.

Singer Eddie Levert said, "We protested, kicked and stomped. But it is out of our control."

Bandmate Walter Williams added, "No offence to Justin, because he deserves the respect he has earned, but I could think of a few people who know more about our pain and suffering and history."

Source: FemaleFirst

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Related Blues Blog stories:
THE O'JAYS to be INDUCTED into the ROCK n' ROLL HALL OF FAME （2/26/2005）
TOPS—The Sound of Philly （2/26/2005）

:: Les Coles Wednesday, March 16, 2005 [+] ::

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Delta Blues Project to rock Tokyo

TOKYO (March 16)—Japanese Blues Brother Mitsu sent me an e-mail Monday telling me that a friend of his, Tada, will be back in Japan next week to give a couple of special performances in the old hometown.

For the past seven years or so, Tada has been soaking up the blues tradition in Memphis;as Mitsu—who heads up The Delta Blues Project—did in NYC himself.

Here's the gig info:
March 20th (Sun)
DELTA BLUES PROJECT + TADA from Memphis
MITSU (Vocals & Guitar), TADA (Vocals & Guitar), TAKEZOO (Guitar), HIDE (Drums)
at:
BAR PA⋅TRUSH
Kuchi-Biru 3f
1-2-15 Jiyugaoka
Meguro-Ku
Tokyo
(near Jiyugaoka Station on the Tooyoko Line)
Tel: 03-3724-7355
Start 9 p.m.
Tickets: ¥500
http://www.nn-jiyugaoka.com/cgi-bin/jiyugaoka.cgi?0014

*March 26th (Sat)
MITSU (Vocals & Guitar), TADA (Vocals & Guitar), TAKEZOO (Guitar)
at:
Blues Club CHICAGO
KONNO-HAITSU 2F
3-37-5 ASAGAYA MINAMI
SUGINAMI-KU,TOKYO
(near Asagaya Station by Chuo Line)
Tel: 03-3398-6171
Start 9 p.m.
Tickets: ¥600
http://www.chicagoplanning.com/chicago.html

A bit about Mitsu:
I first met Mitsu at the Hoochie Coochie blues club in Daikanyama, Tokyo, when I stopped in for a beer on the way to see Pamela MacCarthy, who was playing at Tableaux, just down the road.
I was immediately taken by Mitsu's raw, burning passion for the blues. A commodity not often encountered in young bluesmen. He has a passion for the blues that couldn't be beaten down with a three-foot stick. I got proof of this later that night when, inbetween sets,he told me that he had played the Appollo Theater in Harlem not once—but twice. And that takes a big pair of brass ones.
When Mitsu lived in New York for three years where he played with Floyd Lee (a.k.a. Ted Williams), who is the cousin of John Lee Hooker.

"He taught me a lot of things, about Mississippi, about Soul Food, how to live in Harlem... whatever," Mitsu says.

Since coming back to Japan, Mitsu has continued to play the blues, putting together The Delta Blues Project.

Mitsu is a real bluesman. The blues course thru his veins like the Mississippi course thru the Delta.





DELTA BLUES PROJECT Vol.1
1. Red Dress
2. Chameleon
3. Oborotsukiyo (Music & Lyric / Mitsu)
4. Annie had a baby
5. Senjou no tsuki (Give me one drink,just before I go) (Music / Mitsu)
6. Walkin' like a Dog (Music / Mitsu)
7. I remember our Soul (Music & Lyric / Mitsu)

Distributed by COMPOZILA .INC
a.e.records AECA-10010
Price ¥1,500
Available: HMV, TOWER RECORDS,Virgin MEGASTORE, DISC UNION, TSUTAYA and SHINSEIDOU.

On the Web:
DELTA BLUES PROJECT Official Web Site

:: Les Coles Tuesday, March 15, 2005 [+] ::

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Christina Aguilera to become blues diva

TOKYO (March 15)—Blues fans worldwide worried about the future of the genre breathed a sigh of relief yesterday when pop star Christina Aguilera announced she is planning to ditch her sexy image and transform herself into a blues diva.

Aguilera is famous for raunchy hits such as "Dirty," and her skimpy outfits and sexy dance routines.

But Christina has decided now that she is marrying boyfriend Jordan Bratman she needs a more mature sound to match her new outlook on life&mdashand is working on a retrospective album of blues, jazz and soul songs.

"I've been listening to Billie Holiday and Lena Horne," Aguilera told The New York Daily News.

:: Les Coles Tuesday, March 15, 2005 [+] ::

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Minton's Playhouse to Reopen

Harlem's birthplace of Bop to be reborn

NEW YORK (March 15)—A jazz club that hosted greats including Thelonius Monk, Count Basie and Duke Ellington plans to reopen its doors, decades after its last note was heard.


Minton's Playhouse will reopen at the Cecil Hotel later this year, officials said Monday, with a formal announcement expected at a gala on Wednesday night. The hotel is owned by Housing and Services Inc., which has transformed it into an 89-unit facility and social services provider for recently homeless people.

Minton's, which closed in the early 1970s, will reopen in the street-level space where it used to be.




Minton's Playhouse, New York City, 1948
Thelonious Monk, Howard McGhee, Roy Eldridge & Teddy Hill
Photograph by William P. Gottlieb

History

Minton's, owned by Henry Minton, was a highly regarded jazz club that opened in 1940 in the Cecil Hotel in Harlem.

It is regarded as the birthplace of bop (or be-bop), and in the early 40s operated a jam-session policy that lent itself to a wide range of sessions in which different players could get together and experiment with their music.

Minton was a clarinet player and professional musician of high regard. In fact, back in 1920 he had been elected as the first black delegate to the musicians union in NY. Unlike many other unions, the American Federation of Musicians (local 802) was integrated from its beginning.

While Minton's is often associated with the early days of bop, it actually gained prominence as a nightclub as time went on. Lockjaw Eddie Davis took over as manager and the jam sessions evolved towards a wider range of sessions and forms. Eventually the club focused on showcasing fixed bands."

Strange but true
Minton's Playhouse sponsored one of the great NYC stickball teams of the late '40s and '50s

Source: AP, Streetplay.com

:: Les Coles Tuesday, March 15, 2005 [+] ::

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Harmonica Shah, Howard GLazer part company

It's always a shame when friends break up, and having developed a relationship with Howard Glazier and Harmonica Shah, its was sad to receive the following e-mail from　Howard...

Hello,

Just a note to let you know that by Harmonica Shah's choice, Harmonica Shah and Howard GLazer will no longer be performing together.

From now on Every Thursday - Howard Glazer & the EL 34s will perform at: The Old Miami - 3930 Cass Ave., Detroit, MI
313.831.3830 10 PM

Thanks for all of your support.
Please check out the EL 34s.

Peace
Howard Glazer
www.howardglazer.com

:: Les Coles Tuesday, March 15, 2005 [+] ::

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O'Jays, Percy Sledge, Buddy Guy inducted into Rock 'n' Roll Hall of Fame

NEW YORK (March 14) — Buddy Guy, Percy Sledge, and the O'Jays were ushered into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame on Monday, joined by U2 and The Pretenders at Manhattan's swank Waldorf Astoria.

The O'Jays are best know for their work with Philly soul producers Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff, but the gospel-styled singers are actually from Canton, Ohio. Back Stabbers was a big hit in 1972, with Love Train and For the Love of Money other well-known songs.

After film clips showed them in wild tuxes during the 1970s, the quartet wore simple black suits to perform a medley including each of those songs. They were inducted by singer Justin Timberlake.

"Anyone who's ever written, produced or performed something soulful stands in the shadows of these giants," Timberlake said.

Original members Eddie Levert and Walt Williams are still active, and they were to be inducted with the late William Powell, retiree Bobby Massey and Sammy Strain.

If nothing else, Sledge's voice has been the backdrop to countless romantic encounters. The Southern soul singer is best known for When a Man Loves a Woman.

Singer Rod Stewart called it "one of the best performances I've ever heard and I'm sure you've ever heard."

Guy, who will be headling the 20th Japan Blues Carnival in May and June, dominated the Chicago blues guitar scene, and he was to be ushered into the hall by some pretty decent guitar players themselves—Eric Clapton and B.B. King.

Frank Barsalona, credited with creating the first big rock 'n' roll booking agency, and Sire Records founder Seymour Stein were being inducted in the nonperformer category. Barsalona was inducted by rocker Steve Van Zandt, dressed in the guise of Silvio Dante, his character from The Sopranos.

Musicians, industry professionals and journalists vote on the inductees. Hall of fame members are permanently enshrined in Cleveland's Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

On the Web:
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

:: Les Coles Monday, March 14, 2005 [+] ::

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Etta Baker and Taj Mahal on NPR

March 16—Piedmont blues legend Etta Baker will be featured on NPR's Morning Edition, with a possible appearance by the long-time Jazz & Blues hero Taj Mahal. Check with your local NPR affiliates for the details.

You can also visit Morning Edition's website here for details as well as the opportunity to listen to the interview online if you can't tune in!

Be sure to check out Etta and Taj's fabulous new release, "Etta Baker with Taj Mahal" today!

Source: Music Maker Relief Foundation

On The Web:
Music Maker Relief Foundation

:: Les Coles Monday, March 14, 2005 [+] ::

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Releases for today: March 15, 2005

Blind Boys of Alabama, The "Atom Bomb" (producer: John Chelew; guests: Billy Preston, Blackalicious' Gift of Gab, Los Lobos guitarist David Hidalgo, Charlie Musselwhite; includes a cover of Norman Greenbaum's "Spirit in the Sky") Real World
Reverend Al Green, The "Everything's OK" (producer: Willie Mitchell; Read here) Blue Note
New Monsoon "Live at the Telluride Bluegrass Festival" Sci Fidelity
Thommy Price (Joan Jett and the Blackhearts drummer) "Sex, Drums and Rock 'n' Roll" (guests: Mother Goddess, Tommy Dark) Blackheart
Crosby, Stills & Nash "Crosby, Stills & Nash: Greatest Hits" (19 tracks on one disc; Hear here) Rhino/Atlantic
Miles Davis "Seven Steps to Heaven," "Miles In Berlin," "Miles In Tokyo," "Miles Davis In Europe," "Four & More," "The Best of the Seven Steps To Heaven Box" (each release appears on 2004's "Seven Steps" box set) Columbia/Legacy
Duke Ellington and His Orchestra "Afro-Bossa" (1962 album), "Duke Ellington Plays With the Original Motion Picture Score - Walt Disney's Mary Poppins" (1964 album), "Greatest Hits" Collectables
Grateful Dead "Grateful Dead Movie Soundtrack [box set]" (5 CDs; includes 20 recordings not included in the 1977 concert film) Grateful Dead/Rhino
B.B. King "B.B. King: The Ultimate Collection" Geffen/UME
Curtis Mayfield "Mayfield: Remixed - The Curtis Mayfield Collection" (70 minutes of new remixes from King Britt, Louie Vega, Maurice Joshua, Mixmaster Mike, Stonebridge, Blaze, Eddie Baez, Grandmaster Flash, Ashley Beedle, Eric Kupper) Rhino
Steely Dan "Marian McPartland's Piano Jazz Radio Broadcast" (Walter Becker and Donald Fagen performance on the NPR program in February 2003) Jazz Alliance
Sarah Vaughan "Fever (Adam Freeland Remixes) [CD-single]" Verve
Ramones "End of the Century - The Story of The Ramones [DVD]" (See here - Windows Media, Real, QuickTime) Rhino
Dianne Reeves "Live in Montreal [DVD]" Image
Tina Turner "All the Best: The Live Collection [DVD]" (related CD released on Feb. 1) Capitol

:: Les Coles Monday, March 14, 2005 [+] ::

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