Concert News and Reviews

Jus Blues Awards

We were Off to MEMPHUS for the 2009 Jus Blues Awards Thangs have been so crazy here lately, Sapphire and I were excited about enjoying a few days of well deserved R&R and a chance to enjoy some great performances.

So Sapphire packed the bags . I loaded up the CD magazine so that we could listen to some new music I had received and we pointed the old truck North up 55 toward The Big Town.

About 30 minutes into our trip a Mississippi State trooper followed by a Big Black Limo passed us. Lemme tell you they were going so fast that they almost pulled us along in their wake My phone rang, It was Jackson Radio Legend Queen B Who was in that limo on her way to Memphus to cover the awards show for her Public access TV show which is aired on the PEG Network In Jackson.

Queen said" Come On Boogie Step on it the Trooper Gonna take us on to the state line". I told Queen yall go on I aint gonna blow my motor up tryin to keep up.

So We bidded the a fond howdy do and settled back with our cruise set on 65 and eased on into to town listening to the new Bertha Payne CD"Marvelous" ,I'm The One You Need By Ernie Johnson and Jody"s Got My problem by Luther Lackey.

Upon arrival we checked into the Holiday Inn Select Which was okay. Clean, Reasonable rate ,Good Location.

The First event was The Cocktail Party which proceeded the Night Of The Living Legends Big Thanks To Ms.Anna Coday who secured our table for us.

The Jus Blues Foundation had put together a Great Buffet Dinner On The Menu Bar B Q"Pork" and Chicken Hot Potato Salad Green Beans and Tossed Salad every thang was very tasty.

We were joined at our table by our good friend Johnnie Walker \Executive Director of the Memphis& Shelby County Music Commission,Charley Burch Of The Burch Entertainment Group and Willie Mitchell's Royal Studio. and Master Entertainers Tommy Brown and Lonnie Brooks

The Honorees For The Night

Dorothy Moore
Lonnie Brooks
Shirley Brown
Tommy Brown
Trudy Lynn
Otis Clay
Marvin Sease
Clarence Carter
J Blackfoot
Rip Daniels
Check Out Our Twitter Log and Pictures

On Friday The Gremlins Showed Up

The first thing that happened was due to some hacking Twitter went down early Friday morning and that really messed up my plan to twitter the entire event.

So we had to go to plan B.

The technology conference on Friday was well attended . The attendees were given information about the use of the latest technological advances that can be used in music marketing

SPECIAL MOMENTS
Our plan to continue our plan to get Grammy recognition for Southern Soul Blues did not materialize , however we did caucus with Otis Clay Lee Parker Dr. Love , Tommy Brown and a few others about The Past ,The Present and future development of Southern Soul Blues Music.

AWARDS SHOW NIGHT

Awards Night Was Great. At our table we were joined by Johnnie Walker,Toni St.James,Captain Curtis Lee, Otis Clay, Lonnie Brooks, Johnnie walker captain Curtis Lee and I worked together at The Old KRNB "magic 101" in Memphis and Toni St James Programmed the station after we left We had a great time joking about our ex bosses.

I'm am not a Big fan of track performances,but Thursday nights presentation were entertaining and gave the artist a chance to introduce themselves to a greater audience.
We were disappointed as time ran out before we got a chance to see Andre Lee and Theodis Ealey perform .
The Highlight Of The Night were the Live Performances By Kenny Neal, Lonnie Brooks,Tyree Neal Preston Shannon,Otis Clay and Tommy Brown.

Twitter was still problematic however we did manage to get a few tweets out

10:00PM Dense Lasalle Gets Soul Blues Woman Of The Year Awards
chuck d in the house
9:54 PM Aug 6th from web
sang karen sang man enough great song
9:48 PM Aug 6th from web
karen wolfe up next
9:46 PM Aug 6th from web
great track performance
9:38 PM Aug 6th from web
wilson meadows up next
9:35 PM Aug 6th from web
karen wolfe female artist of the year
9:32 PM Aug 6th from web
betty padget the female soul blues award
9:07 PM Aug 6th from web
zac harmon gets the little milton guitar award
9:03 PM Aug 6th from web
lil fally tonite got the house rockin 8:51 PM Aug 6th from web lil fallay up next
8:45 PM Aug 6th from web lady khandi ..another great track set
8:37 PM Aug 6th from web jus blues awards ..bobbye doll johnson...great track set

WINNERS

Traditional Male Blues Artist-John Lee Hooker Jr.
Traditional Female Blues Artist-Trudy Lynn.
Traditional Male Blues Song-Let Life Flow-Kenny Neal.
The Best Soul Blues Radio Show- Bobby Webb.
Little Milton Guitar Award - Zac Harmon.
Best Juke Joint- Po Boys.
Best Soul Blues Song-Lock My Door-Jeff Floyd.
Soul Blues Woman Of The Year-Denise Lasalle.
Soul Blues Man Of The Year-Latimore.
Jus Blues Legends Gregg A.Smith.
Jus Blues Legends Shirley Brown.
Record Lable of The Year-Ecko Records.
Female Song Of the Year-Man Enough Karen Wolfe.
Southern Soul Female Artist Karen Wolfe.
Southern Soul Male Artist Of The Year Omar Cunningham .
Southern Soul Male Song Of The Year-Playin With It OB .Buchana

PICTURES

Grady Champion Holds Court At

26^th Annual Chicago Blues Festival

By Brinda Fuller Willis, Ph.D.

Jackson Advocate Contributing Writer

The 26^th Annual Chicago Blues Festival was billed as the largest free blues festival in the world and is considered a right of passage for any blues singer worth the salt is his bread and Grady Champion demonstrated that he has a lot of that main ingredient as he set the Mississippi Juke Joint Stage on fire, Sunday night paying homage and tribute to the “Queen of the Blues,” Ms. Koko Taylor, who death and funeral services coincided with the festival.

This year the 26^th Annual Chicago Blues Festival celebrated the life and works of Robert Nighthawk born Robert Lee McCollum, in Helena, Arkansas on the centennial of his birth (1909-1967). Nighthawk is said to have traveled throughout Mississippi and was heard on the radio in Jackson during his noted itinerant career first as a harmonica player and later on received great acclaim as an accomplished slide guitar bluesman on the historic Maxwell Street in Chicago but is said to have considered the Mississippi Delta his home.

This year the festival was cut short a day starting on Friday, June 12^th and ended on June 14^th with no less noticeable enthusiasm or star power delivered by a cast of characters that embodied the blues music genre. The Blues Festival welcomed two-dozen new performers along with blues icons such as Ms. Bettye LaVette, Sharon Jones and The Dap-Kings, and a 70^th Birthday Party for Eddie C. Campbell, one of the last originators of the Westside sound that was considered by many as Chicago blues until Chess Records and Willie Dixon put their indelible stamp on the Southside blues sound that influenced jazz, country and rock and roll, R&B, Hip-hop.

Noted for having several performing stages the Chicago Blues Festival organizers filled each one with a little something-something for every appetite such as Pinetop Perkins, Magic Slim, Willie “Big Eyes” Smith, Charlie Musselwhite, Lurrie Bell, Carl Weathersby, Fernando Jones, Cyrus Hayes and Lady Lee, Lil Ed and the Blues Imperials, Travis “Moonchild” Haddix, Ray Allison and Eddie Taylor, Jr. with Harmonica Hinds.

As usual the Mississippi Juke Joint Stage was a must-see for almost every festivalgoer because it showcases bluesmen and women from “The Birthplace of America’s Music.” The Mississippi stage hosted Grady Champion, Big Jack Johnson, Terry “Harmonica” Bean, Eden Brent, Ben Payton, and the legendary “Honeyboy” Edwards. The Mississippi Development Authority’s (MDA) Tourism Division was the title sponsor of the Mississippi Juke Joint Stage along with their hospitality partners, the Mississippi Gulf Coast CVB, Yazoo County CVB, Greenville CVB, McComb VB, Philadelphia Community Development Partnership, and the Mississippi Blues Commission all of “whom help to promote and market Mississippi’s music heritage and wealth of travel offerings from its booth during the festival over the last several years,” according to Alex Thomas, program manager for the Mississippi Development Authority’s Tourism Heritage Trails Program.

An added highlight occurred just prior to the beginning of the festival on June 11, 2009, the unveiling of the Mississippi (Chicagoland) Blues Trail Marker, one of a limited number of markers to be erected outside of the state. The marker was set just inside Grant Park at Indiana & Roosevelt Road, the site of the old train station where many of the now venerated bluesmen and women first arrived in the Windy City back in the day.

Another special treat took place at the Willie Dixon Blues Heaven Foundation (WDBHF) located at 2120 S. Michigan Avenue on June 13^th, Saturday night when Grady Champion put on an after festival set to the delight of approximately 200 very special guests that hailed from as far away as Mexico City, London, France Germany, Holland, and Australia. Grady was joined on stage at Blues Heaven for a once-in-a-lifetime performance with blues harmonica royalty, Steve Bell and harmonica master, Billy Branch. Then it really got hot at 2120 when Marie Dixon, widow of the late Willie Dixon belted out a couple of Dixon tunes such as “Built for Comfort” and “Wang Dang Doodle,” backed by the threesome. The Mississippi entourage for the after set included the owner of the 930 Blues Café, attorney Isaac Byrd and Linda & Brinda Fuller, writers of the popular advice column, “Ask The Twins.” Linda said, “We come to the festival every year as part of the sales team for the (WDBHF) and because Brinda is the southern representative for the Foundation. We are longtime friends of the Dixon family. We met Willie and Butch Dixon back in the 1970s when we teenagers and then as adults when we lived in Atlanta in the 1990s.”

The festival had a somber tone because of the death of the “Queen of the Blues.” The Koko Taylor Celebrity booth remained closed throughout the festival but large sympathy card hang inside the booth for all to sign. Several times large crowds were seen just standing around the booth exchanging stories about times when they had encountered the Queen. Some played her music on their electronic devices in front of the card and other openly wept. The services for Koko were hosted by Rev. Jessie Jackson at Rainbow/ Push headquarters with visitations on Thursday and Friday from 4-6 p.m. and the funeral from 6-9 p.m. Friday night. During both visitations fellow bluesmen and women sang their hearts out in tribute. Otis Clay sang his signature song, “When The Gates Swing Open,” during the funeral services, as it was Koko’s favorite according to Cookie, her daughter. Close family friend, Marie Dixon spoke passionately during the funeral services about her time with Koko and about Koko’s relationship with Willie Dixon, who wrote the Queen’s signature song, Wang Dang Doodle,” which the crowd sang at the end of the services. Koko Taylor will be remembered and cherished by her daughter, Joyce “Cookie” Threatt, son-in-law, Lee and grandchildren. Tributes from Buddy Guy and Mayor Richard Daley were delivered during the Thursday night visitation. Koko was laid to rest Saturday, June 13, 2009 in a private ceremony.

The 26^th Annual Chicago Blues Festival climaxed with the finale performance by Sharon Jones and The Dap-Kings under the Petrillo Band Shell.

Memorial Day Blues Festival

Hello Blues and Southern Soul fans.This is the Big Dawg bringing you my most recent concert review.This is only my second one for 2009 but on this Memorial Day weekend this was one that I will surely always remember.

My man Rico Owens presented his annual Memorial Day Blues Fest.For the second straight year the attendance for this show wasn't a large turnout but you know with this genre of music the smaller the crowd the bigger the party and for all of us in attendace we had one wang dang doodle of a time.The V in Greenville,Mississippi played host to this southern soul party.I was joined in "Da Dawg Pound" by fellow members G-Money,Rico Owens and Octavious Pates a.k.a. O-Dawg and the newest young southern soul band in the industry "DA GRAN BOIZ".The lineup for this show was Terry Wright(Anytime Man),Booker Brown,Sweet Angel,Ricky White and Jeff Floyd.So with my gin and juice on hand chased with some ice cold Bud Light,sit back good people and let me take you on this blues and southern soul ride.

The first performer was Terry Wright and this was my first time actually seeing him perform live.I met him back in 2008 at Sir Charles cd release party and the "King Of Southern Soul" allowed him to come on stage and do a medley of a few of his songs.I was really glad to see him added to this show.He didn't have his band with him so he had to perform tracks.I wish he could have had his band with him because you can really see an artist shine better when they have their live band playing at shows.He came on stage and got a nice reception from the small crowd in attendance.He opened his show with "Party" and thats exactly what got kicked off at this show.A few of the sexy women down stage jumped to their feet and they helped to get this party started for real.His next song was "One Way In,One Way out" and this also got a very good response from the crowd.His next selection really caught my attention.His southern soul hit "Two Women" is da bomb for real.I hadn't heard it in awhile but he really had the crowd going on this jam.This ballad is definetly a freeway to a listners heart.His smooth and immaculate voice made me ask one of the women down stage to dance?The way we slow danced on this song could easily rivaled that of President Obama and his wife Michelle being serenaded by Beyonce at the president's inauguration gala.This song has already been added to my current playlist.He closed his performance with his latest single "On The Back Roads" and this song has garnered major airplay throughout the southern region of the United States.Not new to the Southern Soul Scene, and a force to be recognized,Terry Wright is definetly one of the new voices of Southern Soul. Bringing a smooth style to the table and a voice that makes the women scream his name. Terry has worked with some of the best known acts in the business and now he's spreading his wings to bring you a sound like none other. Former music director for the Great Marvin Sease, Terry Wright has a vocal style that is ready for the airwaves, CD's and live performances.I hope the promoters will begin to add this talented brother to their shows.He has a new cd titled "How Sweet Is Your Candy" on Mac Wright records and I've already listen to it and fans this is a must buy.This was an awesome performance.Terry Wright,welcome to the club man!For more information on Terry Wright please contact him personally at terry966@aol.com

The next performer was Booker Brown and this is no disrespect to him but it was just awfully hard to follow Terry Wright and I wasn't very familar with his music.He was just put in a bad situation for this show.It would have been hard for anyone to follow Terry Wright on this night.His songs "Love Is Blind" and "Stir It Up" did catch my ear.

Up next was my girl,Ecko recording artist,Sweet Angel.I've known her for awhile now but this was actually the first time that I've had the opportunity to see her perform and anytime there is a diva on a male dominated show I always look forward to watching them perform.She must be a popular diva in this area because the small crowd on hand gave a big ovation for her as she hit the stage to "I'm Every Woman"..With this genre of music I can honestly say that the women all stick together because the women down stage were feeling her as she did this intro.Her first song was "Oops' and she had the women testifying when her verse said,"You thought the grass was greener on the other side and now your ass is in for a bumpy ride",even me and O-Dawg gave a big bark on that one."Guilty As Charged" was her next song and this mid-tempo head bobber got the dance party started.In a day and time when women are always blaming the men about something,her next song "I'm Sharing Your Man" went over very well with the women.She is telling another woman that she can't give up her man and the women in attendance was up and singing along with approval,I got a big chuckle because I thought this was the damnest thing I've ever seen.Now I know why I don't watch LIFETIME CHANNEL!Her next song was my personal favorite "I Must Be Crazy",whew I just love this song.I made my way to the stage area to get up close and personal and then I closed my eyes and just imagined that she was singing this song especially for me.Her raspy sultry voice on this jam truly sounded angelic to me.I love this song for real.She continued her lifetime theme with a song called "I'd Rather Have A Cheatin Man".Now this woman gave a sassy performance on this song and the women all agreed in unity that they would rather have a cheating man than no man at all.Only at a grown folks party can this type of song get an AMEN from a group of women.Personally I think they all need to stop watching the Lifetime channel so damn much.Most divas performing now sound more like soul\r&b artist than a blues artist but on her next song "Another Man's Meat On My Plate" she had a true,deep,down-home blues vibe going.This southern soul party turned straight into a juke joint on this cut.She closed her performance with "Sweet Angel Blow That Thang".Before your minds get into the gutter she displayed her versatility as she broke out her saxaphone and blew the roof off the building.If she weren't a singer first she could easily be a part of any big time jazz band.She was that damn good!I've followed the career of this talented diva since her debut album "Handle Your Business" her manager\husband the legendary Mike Dobbins is to be commended on the developement and the maturation of this beautiful and talented diva.She is among the most sought after divas on the southern soul circuit.I'm glad to see her reaping all the much deserved recognition that she is obtaining.Her career will only grow bigger and brighter with Mike Dobbins in her corner.She has a new cd titled,"Bold Bitch".Is that grown enough for you?For all the latest news from Sweet Angel please visit her website at www.sweetangel.org and at www.eckorecords.com

The next performer was Ricky White and my honorary Dawg Pound members "Da Gran Boiz" were backing him tonight.Ricky White is a native son of Greenville and I know he was happy to be performing in front of the hometown folks.He opened his performance with "Fire" and thats exactly what he begin to do to the stage and the crowd was doing on the dance floor.Now Greenville is the hometown of Tyrone Davis and his next song,"So Good To You" is an ode to the late great Tyrone Davis.Anytime the hometown folks can groove with Tyrone you know its on and popping as the young folks like to say.He went back to his debut cd with his next selection,"Candy Man" as he let the women know,"in the world of love they call him the king and he can make them moan and scream because he is the Candy Man".It was his band,the "Gran Boiz" time to shine on his next song "Weekend".I watched these young cats grow as a band when they were backing for local artist Jessie Clay and Missippippi Slim since that time they've gone on to back Betty Padgett and now they were on stage with Ricky White and cutting up on the weekend.He closed his performance with my personal favorite,"I Still Love You".Me and O-Dawg were down by the stage with our hands in the air swaying left to right like a scene from the movie Purple Rain(May have been the gin kicking in).The women were also loving this one too.This ballad has dominated the southern soul airways and I know two people who have personally used it as a wedding song.I can honestly say that this song will become his signature song.This was a great performance and it was even more special for me because "Da Gran Boiz" really shined on this performance.Ricky White has a new cd out on Brimestone records titled "Fully Loaded" including the smash single "I Still Love You". Please go out and buy this cd to help support this hardworking artist.

The last performer on the night was jamming Jeff Floyd.O-Dawg had never seen him perform before so he was down stage for this one.He opened up his performance with "I Don't Wanna Lose Your Love" and for anyone who has seen Jeff Floyd perform already know that he has the most P-O-W-E-R-F-U-L live vocals in the industry,hands down.Whew!His voice echoed through the building like rolling thunder.All the fans in attendance were on their feet by now.I stood in awe as Jeff begin singing "I Got My Woman Upset".He next performed songs from his new cd including "Hand On It","Planning My Weekend" and "Shake Something Lose".It was now 2:00 am but Jeff still had everyone's full attention.The next song was "Lets Get It On" and I tell you people,the more Jeff sang the more powerful his voice sounded to me.His next song was a rendition of Solo's "Heaven" and if you remember this song you know you got to have some strong pipes to pull this one off and my man didn't disappoint at all.His next song was "Somebody's Gonna Lose A Good Woman Tonight" I wish William Bell could have been here live to perform this duet but Jeff did a hell of a job in his absence.The highlight of his performance was when he performed "King Size Bed".I've seen a lot of props being used in shows but Jeff has topped them all with a replica king size bed brought out on stage.Jeff was able to simulate to the women in Greenville how he could handle his business in bed.Grown folks stuff for real.He gave a Teddy Pendergrass like performance on his new single "Lock My Door" just as Teddy screamed "turn'em off" in his song "Turn Off The Lights",Jeff equaled that moment when he screamed "lock it up" toward the end of this song.He closed his performance with my personal favorite "I've Found Love On A Lonely Highway" and once again he displayed his POWERFUL vocals.Jeff Floyd has a strong stage presence that puts him in the same class with T.K. Soul,O.B. Buchana,Omar Cunningham and Sir Charles.If you are a big Jeff Floyd fan he has a new cd titled "Keeping It Real" on Wilbe records.For all the latest Jeff Floyd news please visit his website at www.jazzijefffloyd.com

I would like to thank my man Rico Owens and his entire staff for making it possible for me to cover this show.I hate it wasn't a bigger crowd to help support him for bringing such a spectacular show to Greenville.I believe its too many activities such as reunions,graduations and folks just going out of town on Memorial Day weekend that is the real cause for small turnouts at some these shows.Rico keep ya head bro!

In closing I would like to thank Terry Wright,Sweet Angel,Ricky White and Jeff Floyd for taking the time to meet,greet,converse and pose for tons of photos at this show.Your time is truly appreciated.I would like to give special shout outs to Sweet Angel's personal assitants,Linzy Dorsey and Tamika Ivy,the legendary Mike Dobbins,my sweet friend Peaches(who by the way arrived toward the end of the show),my honorary Dawg Pound members Da Gran Boiz.To my fellow Dawg Pound members G-Money,Rico and O-Dawg it was a blast for real and I can't wait to do it again.KSOUL I know you were suppose to be on this show and I hate I didn't get the opportunity to see you do your thang but bro its coming just hang in there.I had a great time at this show and I just wanted to share it with the greatest fans in the world.Take care and MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALWAYS.I'll see you down by the stage.

BIG K9

www.bigk9.net

BIG CD RELEASE PARTY

Hello Blues and Southern Soul Fans,with the dog days of summer upon us the weather isn't the only thing thats hot in Mississippi.I just recently attended one of the best southern soul events ever and let me tell you it was sizzlin hot,so hot I thought I saw the devil doing the cupid shuffle.The Central City Complex in Jackson,Mississippi played host to the double cd release party for "THE KING AND PRINCE OF SOUTHERN SOUL MUSIC",Sir Charles Jones and Reggie P.The staff from Foxy Productions led by the lovely Levonne Sampson were the ones who were responsible for one of the most memorable shows that I've attended over the last five(5)years.It was a who's who among the guest that were in the house on this night including my godfather and mentor,"The Boogie Man" himself,Jerry"Boogie"Mason from the Boogie Report,WGNL radio personality,Cyerio Hughes and my man from Vicksburg "Mr. Too Sweet" himself from Too Sweet Productions just to name a few.I also was joined in the Dawg Pound by original members Carnez Parris(Sir Cap),Timothy Edmonds(Mane) and the newest Dawg Pound member OKT 23 from Starkville,MS.Also on hand were the Clarksdale Divas,Roni,Claudette and Keelah and since we have been getting our blues on together so much here recently,on this night I officially dubbed them "DA DAWG POUND DIVAS".They welcomed three new members on this night,a couple of friends of mine from myspace joined us in Da Dawg Pound,Tina(Ms. Fabulous),Keitha(Kee-Kee) and Chandra(Pure Seduction) all were in the house for this spectacular event.

The room was decorated from wall to wall.The tables had candles,ballons,flowers and to my suprise free champagne and hor'd oeuvres I thought that I was just going to another blues show so when I entered the room it just took my breath away.The atmoshpere was a very festive one.Even with free champagne and hor'd oeuvres on hand it was still a byob affair.The sounds of T.K. Soul,Kenne Wayne,O.B. Buchana and Omar Cunnigham allowed the crowd to get their groove .. the show started.The mc's for tonight's show were WMPR radio personalities DJ Outlaw and The Ragman.So withDa Dawg Pound" and Da Dawg Pound Divas" on hand and me sipping on my gin & juice chased with some cold bud light good people allow me to take you on this blues and southern soul ride.

"The Prince Of Southern Soul",Reggie P hit the stage first and what an entrance he made.I've seen several of his performances before and if you're like me you know he will work his way around the room before he hit the stage and tonight was no different.He danced,he pranced,he walked,hell I even think he ran at times as he floated around the Central Complex.He began his performance with Johnnie Taylor's classic hit "Still Called The Blues".His next song was "Come On Girl" and this is when the party really started.He brought a young lady from the crowd and placed a chair front and center on the dance floor and like a VIP participant at a strip club(I wouldn't know I heard this how they do it at a strip club)Reggie P sat there and got a lap dance from the young lady(who by the way should have her strip dance license revoked).He said he had enough and he allowed my man Brotha X(Sir Charles brother) to get in on the act.This was no small young lady but Brotha X picked this woman up like she was a piece of paper and first he begin to stroke it,then he begin to poke it and finally he licked it like it was,well I think you get the picture and this got a big laugh and a huge ovation from everyone in attendance.He continued his performance with Johnnie Taylor's "Running Out Of Lies" and Bobby Womack's "Nobody Wants You" and "Your Love Is A Bad Habit".His next song was my personal favorite "Hold On" and believe it or not the dance floor was empty so me and my good friend Roni got the dance party started on this song.He got the crowd juking with Z.Z. Hill's "Down Home Blues" and this was another show stopper as he was joined by a woman from the crowd who gave Reggie P a suprising rendition as she chased him around the dance floor trying to give him some of her funky good time loving,again this got a big laugh from the crowd.His next song,"I Got That Feeling" has garnered massive airplay on southern soul radio stations.He closed his performance with the southern soul classic "Why Me" and everyone was up and dancing as he once again worked the crowd.Reggie P is truly a living testimony,he has suffered in the past three strokes and just a couple of months ago a mild heart attack.This is no knock on him but this was by far the BEST Reggie P performance that I've ever seen.I believe the friendship he shares with Sir Charles has been a blessing and its also his motivation to deliver a high powered performance.I never realized in the past how good his live vocals were.He is a great singer and he looks so comfortable entertaining the crowd.Also I have to give props to his band because they kept the sounds tight all night long especially his bass player who displayed some mean guitar licks on several of his songs.If you haven't purchased his cd "Your Love Is A Bad Habit" please do so.If you want to hear some quality soul blues ballads you are going to love this cd with "No More Tears" and "Unforgettable Dreams" being a couple of my favorites.I became a big Reggie P fan on this night and I can't wait to see him do his thing again.Damn good show bro!

His royal highness,"The King Of Southern Soul",Sir Charles Jones was up next and its so amazing to see the impact that one performer can garner from a crowd.The ovation that came from the crowd was so surreal.There were women screaming and even the fellas were up on their feet as he made his way to the stage.Just his mere presence I believe would have been enough to satisfy some of these women who by now had flocked to the stage area led by "Da Dawg Pound Divas".He hadn't sang one lyric and already the place had erupted.Thats some big time s**t!He opened his performance with "Friday" and although it was Saturday night the boy sounded so good he made you feel like it was actually Friday."Natural Woman" was his next song and my girl Roni was definetly feeling this cut.He said he was feeling good tonight and he was ready to please all the women in attendance and he did just that as he performed his classic hits "Better Or Worse","Just Can't Let Go" and "Hang On".The highlight of his performance was when Brotha X joined him on stage and along with his band members did their popular sychronize dance routine on the classic hit "Slow Roll It".This has always been a crowd pleaser and it was no different on this night as they slid to the left and then to the right and just slow rolled it for the women in attendace and they loved every minute of it."Just Like Fire" was his next selection and again "Da Dawg Pound Divas" were ripping up the dance floor.He performed one of his newest singles "Pop That Coochie" and this is going to be another bona fide hit from Sir Charles.This cut had the dance floor jumping for real as the lovely women in attendance were popping on the dance floor.He closed his performance with "Is There Anybody Lonely" and just like vintage Sir Charles he allowed another artist to share the stage with him.There isn't another artist in the industry with probably the exception of J. Blackfoot that allows a singer to share their spotlight.Every Sir Charles performance I've seen he has graciously allowed other artist to share the stage with him.Southern soul singer Terry Wright(Anytime Man) joined him on this classic hit and let me tell you fans the boy can wobble.I was very impressed with his vocal prowess.Also Reggie P joined him on stage and they begin to ad lib about their brotherly friendship.My man Omar Cunningham has the best live vocals,my friend T.K. Soul is the best showman but when it comes to charisma there is none better than Sir Charles.He is a terrific singer and dancer with a strong stage presence.Its always a pleasure to see him perform.I've got his new cd titled "My Story" and soul blues fans this is another masterpiece by "The King Of Southern Soul".Please go out and buy a copy of this cd and yes I said buy not bootleg.For all the latest Sir Charles news please visit his website at www.sir-charles-jones.com and on his myspace page at www.myspace.com/sircharlesjones747

In closing I would like to say to all the true die hard fans of this genre of music,please continue to come out and show your support to these hardworking artist,promoters and others who try to provide us with this real music that we all can honestly relate too.There is a lot of politics in this industry and I won't deny that,I just hope and pray that the day and time will come that all the record labels,artist,promoters and radio jocks will unite and stop all the negative politics in this industry and make this genre of music more mainstream.I share my concert reviews and photos with fans of this genre of music because they can't turn on BET,MTV and VH1 and see or hear any news about these hardworking artist.I try to make fans who don't attend shows to want to get out the house and see for themselves what I experience at these shows.I receive tons of emails from fans thanking me because they say after reading my reviews they look forward to attending shows and festivals in their surrounding areas.That alone is one of the reasons why I continue to do what I do.I want to thank Reggie P and Sir Charles for taking the time to meet,greet and converse with me at this show.Your time is appreciated.I want to thank Levonne Sampson,CEO of Foxy Productions with providing me and Da Dawg Pound with the best seats in the house.Love you babe.I want to give a few shout outs to my godfather Jerry"Boogie"Mason(How the hell we didn't take a picture together?),to my man Too Sweet,Brotha X,DJ Outlaw,DJ Ragman,Sweet Mama(myspace friend) and Yankan(myspace friend).To "DA DAWG POUND DIVAS"Claudette,Keelah,Roni(my photographer),Pure Seduction,Ms. Fabulous and Kee-Kee(You sweated your hair down) I had a blast getting my blues on with all of you.You all are a lovely addition to Da Dawg Pound.To my Dawg Pound members Cap,Mane and OKT 23 it was fun fellas and I look forward to us doing it again.Hands down this was one of my best shows,I had a great time at this show and I just wanted to share it with the greatest fans in the world.Take care and MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALWAYS.I'll see you down by the stage.

BIG K9

www.bigk9.net

HINDS COUNTY PRE-4TH OF JULY BLUES FEST

Hello BLUES AND SOUTHERN SOUL FANS.What can be hotter than the temperature in Mississippi in July?How about the start of all the outdoor blues festivals that are so popular.I just love this time of the year.I just recently attended "The Hinds County Pre-4th Of July Blues Festival" in Edwards,Mississippi.I was really looking forward to this outdoor event.Don't get me wrong I like the settings of a civic center and I just love the vibes that an old fashion juke joint provides but there is nothing like the atmosphere of an outdoor blues festival.The lawn chairs,the tents,the coolers,the delicious southern cuisines being cooked on a grill and the thousands of fans assembled like a big family reunion.Yes this is truly the best of times for the loyal blues and southern soul fans here in the magnolia state.

The lineup for this blues and southern soul gathering included Rick Lawson,Ms. Jody,David Brinston,Lebrado,Robert"Duke"Tillman and T.K. Soul.When I arrived I saw a couple of familar faces in attendance.There was producer and songwriter Bruce Billups,southern soul recording artist Kenne Wayne who made a brief special guest appearance and my good friend Roni a.k.a. "The Clarksdale Diva" and Melissa(Myspace friend).I also had the pleasure of meeting Duke Tillman's business manager,Chestine Jackson who made it all possible for me to cover this show exclusively for you fans.I didn't know the promoter for this event but Chestine introduce me to the man everyone simply referred to as Eddie and he extended me VIP acess so once again the big dawg was able to bring another blues show to life.

The mc for the show was The Ragman(WMPR 90.1 radio personality).There were plenty of vendors on hand and the air was filled with the smell of bar-b-que,hot wings and fried fish.The weather was hot but with all the coolers I saw I know the cold beer was very refreshing.I was joined in Da Dawg Pound by Kenne Wayne,Roni and a few local divas who were truly getting their blues on all night long.So with my cold bud light in hand and my man Kenne Wayne chilling in Da Dawg Pound good people allow me to take you on this blues and southern soul ride.

I arrived at the end of the first performer on the show,Rick Lawson.I haven't seen him perform in awhile but from the reaction the crowd gave him he must have put on a decent show.I hate I didn't have the opportunity to see his entire performance so to all you Rick Lawson fans maybe I can see him perform again in the near future.

The next performer was Ecko recording artist,Ms. Jody and those of you who have been following my concert reviews have probably noticed that she has been included in several of them.She has been the busiest diva on the southern soul circuit by far.She received a nice ovation as The Ragman introduced her to the crowd.It was two guys in attendance(they look like the alcohol had gotten the best of them)that stood front and center down by the stage and they both appeared to be competing for her attention during her performance.She opened her show with "I'm Getting What I Want".She followed that with a rendition of Shirley Brown's "Too Much Candy".The crowd enjoyed "Sugar Daddy" and "Sleep With One Eye Open".She continued to thrill the crowd with "It's The Weekend" and the very popular "Your Dog,About To Kill My Cat".She closed her performance with "Big Daddy Don't You Come" and for those of you who have seen her perform this song know she brings a male fan from the crowd to join her.Well this time Ms. Jody said she was feeling freaky so she brought the two guys that were down front and the two of them were like nymphos who hadn't seen a woman in twenty years(I think you get the picture).I thought she had bit off more than she could chew but Ms. Jody was able to handle her business and give these two guys a freak dance that they will never forget.The crowd loved it and she received a big ovation as she left the stage.For all the latest news on Ms. Jody please visit www.eckorecords.com

The next performer was my homeboy David Brinston.He had just got in from North Carolina and he had his blues band from Florida with him.The crowd showed him a lot of love as he hit the stage.His band was sounding good as they started his set with Johnnie Taylor's "Still Called The Blues".His next song was "Hit & Run" and this was a nice upbeat song that got the crowd up and dancing.He kept the crowd dancing with "Work That Thang" and one of the local divas in Da Dawg Pound was doing just that as she was turning heads with her very seductive rump-shaking grown folks dance(I'll just say that there was a whole lot of shaking going on)."Let Me Hit It One More Time" was his next song and this once again had the folks getting their groove on.He slowed it down with the nice ballad"Somebody's Cutting My Cake" and I love to hear him sing this song.His voice is very unique and it has a soulful sound that isn't replicated by any other artist.He received a big ovation as he did several synchronize pelvis thrusts as the band did a pop and stop medley."Hardworking Lady" was his next song followed by the southern soul classic "Party Til The Lights Go Out".He was about to close his performance with "Two Way Love Affair" when The Ragman(mc) told him he had to end his performance due to time restraints.I don't allow myself to get upset at shows but I got mad at The Ragman this time.The fans were enjoying his performance and he only wanted to do one more song,with him making it in from North Carolina you would have thought they could have allowed him another four minutes to close his performance on his own terms but none the less David showed a lot of class and thanked the crowd and exited the stage.I really enjoyed his performance and I hope to have an opportunity to see him perform again real soon.For more news on David Brinston please visit his myspace page at www.myspace.com/davidbrinston01

The next performer was IFGAM recording artist,Lebrado.For those of you not familar with him he is the younger brother of r&b singers K-Ci & JoJo.As he was introduced,the stage area quickly became packed with female fans who all were screaming profusely as he hit the stage.He opened his performance with "Coffee" and this one was definetly for the ladies.He makes no secret about the kind of woman he perfers-hot,black and strong.His next song was "Sure Wasn't Me" and I was blown away by his vocals on this song.He gave a superb renditon that probably had our beloved Tyrone Davis and Ronnie Lovejoy looking down smiling.He paid another tribute to Tyrone Davis with "Banging The Headboards" and the women loved it as he banged and banged toward their direction.He got everyone up and steppin with "Dancin" which is a nice dance(steppin) groove.His show quickly took on a r&b vibe with his next two songs "First Lady" and "Come Back Love"."Try Me" and his new southern soul hit "Fire" kept all the women down front screaming and he allowed a few of them to join him on stage and this really set the stage on fire.He closed his performance with my personal favorite and the hit that established him as a southern soul artist,"I'm Missin You Babe" and the crowd gave him a big ovation as he exited the stage.Lebrado is truly one of my favorite newcomers.He has really matured as a performer and has also become very popular especially with the female fans.For all the latest news on Lebrado please visit his website at www.lebrado.com

The next performer on the show was Robert"Duke"Tillman.This was a much anticipated performance for me.We've been in contact the last several months and I've been trying to catch one of his shows but each time I was unable to see him perform.For those of you not familar with Robert"Duke"Tillman let me first of all say he is no newcomer to the industry.He is a former lead singer for The Drells(formerly known as Archie Bell & The Drells),he has shared the stage on venues with a who's who in the industry including The Temptations,Harold Melvin & The Bluenotes and The Manhattans just to name a few.He has collaborated with the likes of Rue Davis,Frank-O Johnson and the late Mckinely Mitchell.His soulful tenor and falsetto has put him in the same breath as Smokey Robinson and Eddie Kendricks.He received a big ovation as he was led to the stage.He opened his performance with "Coochie Whipped" and immediately he begin to showcase his abilty as a true entertainer.His body movement was pure electric and his soulful vocals came across very well as he ripped the stage and this was just his opening selection."Love Ya Tonight" is a nice song with a tempo that allowed the couples in attendance to do a swing dance.His next song was the silky ballad "I Found Love" and the couples in attendance went from swinging to slow-dancing.He was able to showcase his sugary but sweet and sexy vocals on this jam."Can't Do Without You" is another sleek soulful jam with a Jackie Wilson vibe to it.He received a thunderous ovation as he did an amazing rendition of William Bell's "I Forgot To Be Your Lover".He closed his performance with the uptempo dance groove "Drop" and the crowd again went wild.It was time to get the boogie on and boogie is what the crowd did.I was a lil disappointed because I was hoping that he would perform my personal favorite "Doggone Right".I had the opportunity to meet him right before he went on stage and just let me say that this is the coolest cat that I've ever met.When I say cool I mean "Mr. Zero Below".Right here and now I'm dubbing Robert"Duke"Tillman "THE KING OF COOL".He is'n't a blues singer at all.Duke Tillman is a soul singer cut from the same cloth as the legendary Jackie Wilson and Smokey Robinson.He is truly a gifted artist and I am looking forward to seeing him perform again very soon.For all the latest news on "THE KING OF COOL" please visit his website at www.robertduketillman.com and his myspace page at www.myspace.com/robertduketillman

The last performer on the night was T.K. Soul and it was very late and everyone was still in attendance.I've covered his show probably more than any other artist and it never gets old.Like always the stage area was packed with the ladies as he performed his classic hits "Cheating And Lying","Meet Me At The Spot Tonight","Try Me" and "It Ain't Cheating Til You Get Caught".The highlight of his performance was his "T.K. Soul Cruise Step".Everybody got a thrill out of that.T.K.Soul still remains one of the top performers in the industry.For all the latest news about "The T.K. Soul Cruise" and all other T.K. Soul news please visit his website at www.mrtksoul.com and his myspace page at www.myspace.com/tksoulmusic

In closing I would like to thank Eddie who was the promoter for this show and Duke Tillman's business manager and his PR Agent,Chestine Jackson and Diane Neal who allowed me plenty of acess to cover this show.I also would like to thank Ms. Jody,David Brinston,Lebrado,Robert"Duke"Tillman and T.K. Soul for all taking the time to meet and converse with me,your time is deeply appreciated.I want to also give a shout out to Bruce Billups(Thanks for the love man),Kenne Wayne,Melissa and The Clarksdale Diva,Roni.I had a great time at this show and I just wanted to share it with the greatest fans in the world.Take care and MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALWAYS.I'll see you down by the stage.

BIG K9

www.bigk9.net

"TOO SWEET'S PRE-MOTHERS DAY BLUES FEST"

Hello BLUES and SOUTHERN SOUL fans,my 2008 BLUES AND SOUTHERN SOUL RIDE continues in one of my favorite places.Vicksburg,Mississippi holds a lot of historic treasures but it is slowly becoming a hotbed for the blues and southern soul industry,thanks to my man Too Sweet and his entire production staff.I've made several trips to the city on the River(Mississippi River) to get my blues on and each time the shows get bigger and better."TOO SWEET'S PRE-MOTHERS DAY BLUES FEST" was the theme and the Vicksburg Auditorium was the host for this blues and southern soul gathering.The lineup for this awesome show was special guest Ricky White, Ms. Jody,Nellie "Tiger" Travis,J. Blackfoot and Sir Charles.

The atmosphere was a very festive one.The sounds of Betty Padgett,Denise Lasalle,T.K. Soul,Jeff Floyd,Mel Waiters and other southern soul recording artists were being played by the local dj and this had everyone up and dancing and ready to get their blues on.The smell of bar-b-que and fried fish filled the air courtesy of local vendor LD and his catering staff,the smell of this southern cusine got the best of me and I had to get me a fish plate.While I was sampling my fish I saw several familar faces in the house,their was my man Willard Frederick(the hardest working merchandise man at any show),Sweet Mama and Yakan(Sir Charles VIP all-stars),LeVonne Sampson,Mz. Tink and Roni(Clarksdale Diva).Also in the house was "THE GENTLE GIANT OF SOUTHERN SOUL",O.B. Buchana who by the way finished the rest of my fish plate.It was a byob affair so me and O.B. began to let it do what it do.So with a full house on hand,good food and plenty of cold bud light and me and "The Gentle Giant Of Southern Soul" chilling in Da Dawg Pound good people allow me to take you on this blues and southern soul ride.

The first performer of the night wasn't part of the original lineup but Too Sweet being the kind-hearted person that he is allowed special guest Ricky White to perform a couple of tracks from his new an upcoming cd.I've had the opportunity to see Ricky perform a couple of times and I was glad to have the opportunity to see him perform again.He opened his performance with "So Good To Me" which is an ode to the late Tyrone Davis.His next song was "I'll Still Love You" and this cut is going to get much airplay on southern soul radio stations.He paid a special tribute to all the moms who were attendance as he passed out long stemmed red roses to several lovely women who came down front to receive them(nice gesture).He was only suppose to perform two tracks but the fans wanted to see more of him so he closed his performance with "Ride My Pony" which several of the women down front look like they were ready to do.Fans please look for his new cd in the upcoming weeks.After his performance he joined me and O.B. in Da Dawg Pound.

The next performer was Ecko recording artist,Ms. Jody.She opened her performance with Peggy Scott Adams "I'm Getting What I Want" and this was well received by the crowd.Her next song was a rendition of Shirley Brown's"Too Much Candy" and I was impressed with her vocals on this cut.Can't no one sing a Shirley Brown song like Shirley Brown but anytime fans can hear one of her songs you know that there will be some love shown.She kept her Shirley Brown theme going with her next selection "I've Got To Sleep With One Eye Open".Her next song was from her debut cd, "Sugar Daddy" and and she begin to get a lil bit more comfortable with her performance as she ad-lib with some of the fellas in the crowd."You Dog Is About To Kill My Cat" had the crowd singing and laughing.She closed her performance with "Big Daddy Don't You Come" and she was joined on stage by a male fan in attendance and she sat him in a chair and asked him could he handle a real woman?She sat down on this poor guy and begin to work it grown folk style and the poor guy never had a chance.She received a nice ovation after her performance.For all the latest MS. Jody news please visit www.eckorecords.com

The next performer on the night was my sexy homegirl(we're from the same hometown),Nellie "Tiger" Travis.I saw her perform for the very first time earlier this year and I was just thrilled to have the opportunity to see her perform again so soon.Vicksburg must be familar with her because she received a huge ovation as she walked out on stage.With a sexy and glittery outfit that rivaled that of our beloved Jackie Neal she captured the heart of all the fellas who were in attendance.I just love the divas of this genre of music.She opened her performance with her smash hit "You Gone Make Me Cheat" and she got everyone up on their feet.The ladies down front were singing and dancing like it was a female revolution going on in Vicksburg.Damn she had the crowd amped on this song.Her next song was "Baby Mama Drama" and again the ladies were harmonizing perfectly with this sexy southern soul diva.She continued her female independency with "Super Woman" and she was able to showcase her terrific vocals.This song was truly a moving testimony for all the women in attendance as they raised their hands in unity as she proclaimed the she was only human.She gave the crowd a brief acapella version of her new smash hit "I'm Gonna Slap Your Weave Out" and the crowd loved it. She closed her performance with her smash club hit "If I Back It Up" and immediately the Vicksburg auditorium turned into a dance party as Nellie and all the women in attendance began to shake their tail-feathers(lets just say that there was a whole lot of booty shaking going on).Nellie Travis has arrived fans,she is a phenomenal southern soul diva.She blends the sounds of Tina Turner,Gladys Knight,Mavis Staples and Patti Labelle all rolled up in one.Her show is a must see.For more information on Nellie"Tiger"Travis including bio,photos,upcoming shows and cd release dates please visit her website at href="http://www.msplinks.com/MDFodHRwOi8vd3d3Lm5lbGxpZXRyYXZpcy5jb20=">www.nellietravis.com.

The next performer of the night was The Legendary J.Blackfoot.He was well received as he walked out on stage accompanied by The Queen,Ann Hines.He opened his performance with "Just Got Paid" and this uptempo tune had everyone up and dancing.He slowed the tempo down with one of my personal favorites "After The Tone" and it sounded oh so sweet.His live version of this song in my opinion is better than the cd version.He was joined on his next song by his backup singer as they gave an energetic version of "Same Old Woman".The place erupted on his next song when Sir Charles walked out on stage to join him on their smash hit "I'm Just A Fool Part 2".Their chemistry together was dynamic,they had the women screaming as they performed this jam.To see the two of them together on stage will be a memory that I will always cherish.His next song was another duet but this time he was joined by Ann Hines,as they performed their classic duet "Two Different People".I saw them perform this song earlier in the year for the very first time and just like before I loved every minute of this one.It was like watching the legendary Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell perform as they laughed,shrugged,tucked and tease doing the entire song.His next song was "Your Man Is Home Tonight" and he was joined on stage by "The Gentle Giant Of Southern Soul" O.B. Buchana and just like Sir Charles before him the place erupted when O.B. hit the stage and he wouldn't disappoint as the two of them brought the house down.Damn I love this southern soul s**t.His next song was the one that established him as a solo artist following years as the lead singer of The Soul Children,"Taxi" received an enormous ovation as J.Blackfoot continued to do his thing.He closed his performance with a tribute to Tyrone Davis as he did a superb rendition of "Turn Back The Hands Of Time" and once again the crowd went wild.The living legend continues to give the fans their money worth and then some.I didn't think he could get any better but with each performance he gets better all the time.DAMN GOOD SHOW!

The last performer of the night was "THE KING OF SOUTHERN SOUL",Sir Charles Jones.It was late(about 1:30 am)and the Vicksburg Auditorium was still packed.Its simply amazing to me that no one had left the show,thats big time ya'll.He received a thunderous ovation as he hit the stage.He opened up his performance with "Friday" and the ladies begin to make some serious noise as they packed the stage area.He peformed a medley of three of his classic hits "Natural Woman","Just Like Fire" and "Better Or Worse" and he had the women screaming.The highlight of his performance was when he asked O.B. Buchana to come join him on his next song,"Slow Roll It".The two them belted out their own rendition of this southern soul classic but they were just getting started as they begin to do a synchronized dance routine which consisted of several hip thrusting, bone it like you own it,I'll lick it before I stick it, and I'll stand up in it all night long(grown folks stuff ya'll) and they blew the roof off the auditorium.I think it was great that Sir Charles allowed "The Gentle Giant Of Southern Soul" to be a part of his performance even though he wasn't on tonight's show.The fans were very appreciative.He closed his performance with "Is There Anybody Lonely" and suddenly the house became a dance floor for everyone.His soulful voice sounded so good as he closed his performance.My man Omar Cunningham has the best live vocals,my friend T.K. Soul is the best showman but when it comes to charisma there is none better than Sir Charles.He is a terrific singer and dancer with a strong stage presence.His cds have been far and few the last couple of years but his popularity,especially with the ladies still remains among the best in the industry.I was glad to have the opportunity to see him perform again.I've heard talk about him not conversing with the fans or media anymore and I won't to put that to rest.After the show he greeted fans,took photos and signed autographs,I was able to talk to him as we took several photos together.We agreed to stay in touch so now I'll be able to update you fans regularly about news from "The King Of Southern Soul".AWESOME PERFORMANCE!

In closing I want to thank Too Sweet Productions for allowing me to cover this show.You and your entire staff should be commended for putting together such an awesome show for the fans of this genre of music.Fans please continue to support Too Sweet and other promoters who work so hard to provide us an opportunity to see and hear some of today's biggest blues and southern soul artists.I want to thank Ricky White,Ms. Jody,Nellie "Tiger" Travis,J.Blackfoot and Sir Charles for taking the time to converse with me at this show.I know your time is limited but I am very appreciative.I want to give a shout out to Willard Frederick,Sweet Mama,Yankan,Mz. Tink and Roni(Clarksdale diva).I would like to give a special shout out to "The Gentle Giant Of Southern Soul",O.B. I had a blast kicking it with you at this show.You are always welcome to join me in Da Dawg Pound.I had a great time at this show and I just wanted to share it with the greatest fans in the world.Take care and MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALWAYS.I'll see you down by the stage.

BIG K9

www.bigk9.net

THE GREENWOOD BLUES FESTIVAL 2007"

Hello Blues and Southern Soul fans.My 2007 Blues and southern soul ride kept me in my own backyard as I recently attended "The 2007 Greenwood Blues Festival".At most of the shows that I attend I've probably seen the artists perform already,some of them probably several times but its always good to see a new artist perform for the very first time.The Leflore County Civic Center played host to this blues and southern soul party.This building has a lot of good memories for me.I think everytime that I attend a show here I always reflect back to the time that I met and saw our beloved Jackie Neal perform.I know you all have heard me talk about that night a thousand times but I would be lying to myself if I say I don't get sentimental everytime I walk through the civic center doors and not think about her.It was her final performance as she would be taken away only five(5) days later.I guess anytime there is a show held at this venue and if I am in attendance,my review will be dedicated to her.

The lineup for this blues and southern soul party included Betty Padgett,Leon McMullen,Bigg Robb & Da Problem Solvas,Nathaniel Kimble and Mel Waiters.When I arrived,to my suprise it wasn't a large crowd on hand.I know one of the local SWAC colleges was having homecoming and that usually attracts a large crowd but I had no idea it would effect the attendance of this show.I did run into a couple of familar faces, my man Cyerio Hughes(WGNL Radio personality),Bluz Queen from "The Kitty Kitty Club" and my Godfather,friend and mentor,Jerry"Boogie"Mason along with his beautiful daughter Kim were in the house.It was plenty of people down front by the stage area with their reserved tables and we had a table down front as well so we were in a good spot for tonight's show.It was a BYOB affair so the people were ready to get their blues on tonight.So with my man Cyerio kicking it with "The Godfather" and "Da Big Dawg" and plenty of cold Bud Light on hand sit back good people and let me take you on this blues and southern soul ride.

The soulful diva,Betty Padgett along with her niece and backup singer Dottie a.k.a. Lady D were the first to hit the stage.I'm a big fan of hers and its always good to see her perform.She is a diva that has kept the old school sassy,sultry and sexy vibe alive.She now has put her name up there with the likes of Betty Wright,Peggy Scott Adams,Shirley Brown and Denise Lasalle.Tonight she also had her brand new band with her and I must admit these boys are bad.She opened her performance with Jackie Moore"s "Precious,Precious" and good people it sounded so good.I hadn't heard that song in years but my girl did her thing on it.Her next song was a rendition of Denise Lasalle's "Trapped By A Thing Called Love" which is also one of my all time favorite songs and she now had me in a good old JUKE JOINT MOOD.Her next song was ""Still Away" and ya'll this lady blew me away with her version.If somebody tell me this lady can't sing I'll stomp a good old Mississippi mud hole in them.I stood on my feet as this lady sang her heart out on this song.Even Boogie and Cyerio nodded with approval.She had the ladies down by the stage testifying by now.Her next song was "Slow Roll It" and she displayed something in her show that Big K9 hadn't seen from her before.Betty Padgett was getting freaky on stage and it went over very well with everyone in attendance."Lets Do It Again","Rock Your Boat" and "Midnight Hour" kept her and Lady D shaking their tailfeathers.She closed her performance with the very popular "Never Coming Home" and she had the downstage area rocking.This was one of the best Betty Padgett performances that I've ever seen and its truly a shame that there wasn't a lot of people on hand to see her perform.I hope that she will continue to do this same performance because fans you will never get tired of seeing it.Her band was simply amazing,their chemistry tonight would have you thinking that they had been together for a very long time.And this freaky side that she showed tonight will only keep her a very popular diva on the southern soul scene.What a hell of a way to start a show.Damn good performance.

The next performer was Leon McMullen and myself and I think probably everyone else in attendance had never even heard of him before but I assure you by the end of his performance everyone knew Leon McMullen.He won the crowd over the minute his band begin to play Johnnie Taylor's "Who's Making Love?".To perform a Johnnie Taylor song or songs you know you better bring your "A" game because the fans won't allow you to disrespect a legend.Leon McMullen had his game face on tonight as he continued his Johnnie Taylor theme with "Cheaper To Keep Her".He gave a very heartfelt renditon of Sam Cooke's "A Change Is Gonna Come" and you already know how people respond to a Sam Cooke song.His next selection was J.T.'s "Running Out Of Lies" and like so many blues and southern soul artist he ad-lib with the crowd.The ladies down stage were showing him a lot of love.He closed his performance with a bang."Soul Heaven" got him his biggest ovation of the night as he included several recently departed artist in his version,Leon saw Gerald Levert,Luther Vandross and James Brown and it was through James Brown that the highlight of his performance came.He masterfully did a James Brown dance routine so well that it appeared the spirit of The Godfather Of Soul was in him.I mean everything from the sleek of feet,gliding on one leg,the microphone lean and the legendary split he aced it all.Even James Brown had to be looking down and smiling on Leon McMullen.The people in attendance gave him a nice stamp of approval.He is a wonderful entertainer.He has a nice voice,excellent dance moves and much charisma.Tonight we were able to see three legends Johnnie Taylor,Sam Cooke and James Brown live again through Leon Mc Mullen.I don't know if he has his own music but I'm content with his Johnnie Taylor revue.Leon my man welcome to DA DAWG POUND.

I was really amped up for the next performer.My man Bigg Robb & Da Problem Solvas were up next and I've heard so many good things about his show and this was my first opportunity to see him perform.It was only appropiate that my godfather Jerry"Boogie" Mason bring him to the stage but Bigg Robb had a suprise for me and everyone else in attendance.Southern Soul recording artist,Special(who is also a Bigg Robb protege')was introduced and my heart melted.I'm familar with her music and I was delighted to have the chance to see her perform.As she walked out on stage all the fellas gave her a nice ovation,she is another diva who is bringing sexy back to the industry.As me and the rest of the fellas cooled off this beautiful young lady performed her hit single "Girlfriend To Girlfriend" which is a remake of Shirley Brown's "Woman To Woman".She gave a very soulful performance.Her amazing voice was so powerful it reminded me of a young Patti Labelle and we all know Patti can sing.I hated to see her end this song but I'm thankful that Bigg Robb allowed her the opportunity to bless us with her presence.She received a nice ovation from the crowd and even the ladies joined the fellas in approval.Now it was time for the Bigg Man.Da Problem Solvas hit the stage followed by Bigg Robb with an entrance that only George Clinton & The P Funk All Stars could rival.Greenwood must be Bigg Robb country because he and Da Problem Solvas received a big ovation and everyone was on their feet.With a wardrobe straight from the closet of Boosty Collins Bigg Robb was in party mode as he opened his performance with "I'm Ready To Party".Fire and brimstone would best describe the energy of Bigg Robb & Da Problem Solvas as they performed "Keep On Swingin".His next song was a sample of George Clinton's "Atomic Dog" and it was getting very funky in Greenwood,Mississippi."Bigg Man Love" stole the show.I'm BIG AND I"M PROUD got to be the theme behind this song as Bigg Robb took off his shirt and pants and the women went wild.He was joined on stage by several women from the crowd and they were able to bump and grind and go one on one with Bigg Robb.He called for some of the other big men in the crowd to join him on stage and one fan did as he immediately took off his shirt and received a lot of love for doing it.Bigg Robb and the fan were showing the women how a big man handle their business(grown folks style)and it was really going over well with the crowd.He extended an invitation for me to join them on stage but I declined maybe one day in the near future fans will be able to see Big K9 join Bigg Robb on stage and display some real Bigg Man Love.He introduced his young son(Robb III) who is also the drummer for Da Problem Solvas to the crowd and his son along with several women from the crowd begin to do the "2 Step & Slide" which is a song and dance tune performed by his son.The Pink Panther Theme brought Bigg Robb & Da Problem Solvas back to the stage area as they all strutted on stage with a funky g strut glide.His next song was "I Thought She Was At Home,She Thought I Was At Work" and he left the stage area and was swarmed by the ladies in attendance and he really showed them some bigg man love as he extended a rose to all the women that surrounded him.He returned to the stage area and sampled his song "The Same Thing It Took To Get Her".He closed his performance with "Ride Ya Pony" and once again he had everyone on their feet and dancing.Bigg Robb wasn't ready to end his show and believe me the fans weren't ready for him to end it either.His show is a must see especially if you are fans of the G Funk sound.Roger Troutman,George Clinton and Boosty Collins all rolled up in one would best describe Bigg Robb & Da Problem Solvas.I was so glad to see what so many already knew,Bigg Robb sho nuff know how to party.

My homeboy Nathaniel Kimble was on next and he has become one of my favorite performers.I know he get tired of me saying this but his show continues to get better and better all the time.He received a nice ovation from the crowd especially the women down front.He opened his performance with "You Make Me Happy" immediately he allowed the crowd to be a part of his show.A couple of years ago he didn't do too much of this but now its a fixture in his performance and he has become very comfortable doing it.He and one female fan had the crowd laughing as they exchanged some very raw and sexual explicit lingo with one another I won't go into details but I can say the #69 might have come up a time or two(use your imagination on that one).He thrilled the crowd with his rendition of Tyrone Davis "Sure Wasn't Me".He picked up the tempo with "Please Don't Go" and this had everyone up and cutting a rug.He suprised me with his vocal range on Tyrone Davis "So Good To Come Home To You".The promoters were telling him that it was time to wrap up his performance and I have to be honest this didn't sit too well with him he closed his show with his smash hit "Can U Bagg It Up" and you know that this is always a crowd pleaser.The crowd really showed their displeasure with the promoters for cutting his performance short.Nathaniel Kimble shows use to mainly consist of a lot of uptempo dance tunes but he is slowly turning into a crooner,with the addition of several ballads in his performances.I am very pleased with his progression as an artist,I see bigger and brighter things for this talented entertainer.

The last performer on the night was one of my all time favorite artist,Mel Waiters.It was very late but the small crowd in attendance all remained to see Mr. Waiters and they gave him a very huge ovation as he was introduced to the crowd.He opened his performance with "Pop It Baby" and Mel went into a drop and pop dance routine and the women gave him a nice ovation.His next song,"Smaller The Club The Bigger The Party" had the Civic Center rocking.It was late and the people were still enjoying this southern soul party and Mel Waiters was doing his thing.He performed one of his early hits "Hit It And Quit It" and it must still be popular with the folks in Greenwood because they were getting their groove on.He ad lib with the crowd about losing some of his good friends in the industry and then he begin to pay tribute to two of the very best.First he did an excellent rendition of Johnnie Taylor's "Just Because" and I had no idea that Mel's vocal depth could allow him to pull off a J.T. song.You just don't think about Mel Waiters singing Johnnie Taylor and fans he sounded damn good.Next he paid tribute to Tyrone Davis with a nice version of "If I could Turn Back The Hands Of Time".He kept the party going with "Got My Whiskey" and the dance party also continued as well.Mel Waiters gained a lot of respect from me on this night,with the crowd all focused on him he was willing to share the spotlight.My friend and Mel's personal assistant,Chandra Calloway who also sings backup for him was allowed to perform and do her thing.She did Betty Wright justice with her version of "Clean Up Woman",and got very jazzy with Anita Baker's "My Everything".He also allowed his other backup singer,Alvin Gertman to do his thing as he blessed the crowd with a terrific rendition of Luther Vandross'a "Never Too Much".The suprise of the night came when his sax man Big Joe performed Lenny Williams "Cause I Love You",I had know idea Big Joe could blow(more than his sax).He closed his performance with the song that shot him to superstardom."Hole In The Wall" was the perfect song because it was 2:30 am in the morning.The crowd was trying to get Mel to extend the song but Mel told the crowd he had to go.Mel Waiters in my opinion has earned legendary status,his shows in this area are far and few and I hate that so many missed this dynamic performance.

The smaller the crowd the bigger the party was the theme for this southern soul party.I want to give shout outs to Betty Padgett,Lady D,Leon McMullen,Bigg Robb & Da Problem Solvas,Special(With your sexy self),Nathaniel Kimble,Chandra Calloway and Mel Waiters who all took the time to meet,greet and show Big K9 some love.Bluz Queen,Cyerio Hughes,Kim and my godfather(Boogie) I really enjoyed partying with you all on this night.I had a great time at this blues and southern soul gathering and like always I wanted to share it with all of you the greatest fans in the world.I hope that I was able to make you feel like you were at the show.Take care and MAY GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU.I'll see you down by the stage.

BIG K9
www.bigk9.net

Theodis Ealey Homecoming

This annual event gets bigger and better every year.

We are honored to be a part of this years celebration.

The City- Natchez Mississippi ,The venue- The historic Natchez

City Auditorium.This was an outstanding show and will go down in the books as one of the most entertaining events of the summer. Willie Hill opened the show and" YES VIRGINIA" he was a man on a mission. and the mission was to rock the socks off the entire audience. Willie Hill's power packed energy filled performance had the everybody on their feet clapping their hands to the beat.

Willie showed his range by taking his set from one extreme to the other from hand clapping Foot Stompin Boogie to slow salacious seductive crooning.Mr. Willie Hill demonstrated that he is a total

entertainment.

Next up Lebrado. we have been following Lebrado's development from day one.

Saturday night we saw something in Lebrado that was truly amazing This young man has matured and developed into a master showman, his command of the band his rapport with the audience was truly phenomenal I dare say that he easily fits into the same category as TK Soul and Sir Charles Jones . Vocal Range, Sex Appeal, Showmanship, Lebrado has got it all and "Yes Virginia" he was mobbed when he came off the stage by hordes of adoring females.

LEBRADO HAS ARRIVED if you didn't know NOW YOU KNOW !!!! If you don't believe it go see it for yo self.

Next we were introduced to a special guest that Theodis had invited to perform a lovely lady by the name of Duchess Lljuna Grennell-Weir She is employed by Alcorn State University’s WPRL Radio as station manager, WMIS/WTYJ Radio as station manager and is CEO of VOP Medio.

Lemme tell ya ,In a Power Packed Medley "The Duchess" Took us on a musical trip through the history of modern music that blew us all away Yes even rap This young Lady is truly Natchezs" best kept secret she's a master entertainer in her own right.

Next It was The Star Of The Show

I don't know what can be said about Theodis that hasnt already been said,

Theodis and his band has got to be the tightest unit on the circuit today you can tell that they love what they do new to the groups was my good buddy Davey O on drums who is one of the most visual drummers you will ever see victor, a master gutair himself is the concert master and adds a special layer to the fat sound and my man rob is the funkiest bass player you every hope to shake yo booty to, put em all together and you got the tightest band in the land . Theodis loves to travel all over the venue getting up close and personal with the audience I love when he goes back in the alley and plays that low down neck bone eatin snuff dippin BLUES that always turns the joint out this performance was special half way through the set the Mayor of Natchez Phillip West presented Theodis and his lovely wife Linda a Special gift pack and The Key To The City.

This was truly a special occasion and we would like to thank Theodis and crew for inviting us along to be a part of this fantastic happening. Gee lee did an outstanding job as master of ceremonies and we had an outta site time at the after party at club 601.

Theodis is a living example YOU CAN GO HOME AGAIN!!!!

2007 JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION"

Hello BLUES and SOUTHER SOUL FANS,with summer officially upon us the temperature outside is definetly hot and just like the temperature my 2007 blues and southern soul ride has been hot as well.I have the pleasure of residing in the magnolia state(Mississippi ya'll) and people from other places complain about the heat and some complain about the mosquitos here in the summertime.I guess those two elements can be sort of disturbing for you non country folks but we are probably "THE HOTTEST"(yes I said HOT again) spot for this blues and southern soul thang.I don't care if its north,south,east or west,the people in Mississippi sho-nuff know how to have a blues and southern soul party.I was able to attend the annual "JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION" in Columbus,Mississippi and just like all the other places that I have attended shows at,there was plenty of good food,good music and most importantly good people on hand for this blues and southern soul gathering.The people in Columbus you all are so blessed to have a good man like Mr. Leroy Brooks on your team.This annual event was so well organized,it was a bright sunny day and there were plenty of vendors on hand so the smell of southern fried food and bar-b-que was in the air.It was a very diverse crowd on hand,there was black,white,young and old people all gathered together to share in this celebration.You could have dubbed this an "ECKO RECORDS SOUTHERN SOUL PARTY" because the lineup included Ecko recording artists MS. Jody,Donnie Ray and O.B. Buchana and good people this was a FREE SHOW.Mr. Leroy Brooks and the rest of the people behind the scenes gave the people in Columbus an early Christmas present.I wasn't even disappointed that ice chests weren't allowed,there were vendors on hand that had my cold Bud Light so you already know Da Big Dawg was good to go.There was some familar faces on hand as well,members from The Kitty Kitty Club,Bluz Queen,Act-N-Bad-4-U,Evelyn,Brenda and my lil sister, Columbus native Yulondra Topp a.k.a. Yo-Yo was in attendance.The two of us had talked about this day for a couple of years and now we were able to do the damn thing together.So with the Bud Light starting to kick in and my lil sis Yo-Yo ready to get her bluz on sit back good people and let me take you on this blues and southern soul ride.

The LEGENDARY RICK MASON,host of The Golden Triangle Train in Columbus was the mc for this awesome event.The opening act was the husband and wife duo,Keith and Margie and they aren't strangers to the people of Columbus.I personally have to get better at showcasing these opening acts,now for those of you who attend these shows already know that sometimes the opening acts aren't worth mentioning and thats just as the young folks say keeping it real but Keith and Margie are the real deal.Their music style is so versatile,they are a blend of soul,r&b and blues all wrapped up together.They performed such classic hits as The Isley Brothers"Who's That Lady",The Whispers"Rock,Steady",The Temptations"My Girl",The Intruders"Cowboys To Girls" but the two songs that stood out to me were Betty Wright's "Cleanup Woman" and B.B. King's"The Thrill Is Gone".On "Cleanup Woman" Margie was able to display her terrifc voice that could have made Betty Wright blush,also during this song Kitty Kitty Club member Brenda a.k.a. "On My Own" and this lil adorable young blues fan(I'm guessing about five years old) begin to cut a rug down by the stage area that briefly stole the show.On the "The Thrill Is Gone" Keith showed me that he was a master on the guitar.He took me home with a mean guitar lick that sounded just like Lucille.I heard they play regularly in the surrounding area but this talented duo should be heard by a broader audience maybe Larry Chambers up at Ecko Records is reading this.They had to leave for another engagement after their performance but we did exchange information and I hope that I can see and hear bigger things from KEITH & MARGIE.This was a great performance that set a nice tone for the rest of the show.

While waiting on the next performer Rick Mason kept the crowd entertained with a couple of line dances,first he played the Cupid Shuffle and I've seen the kids at home doing this dance but I haven't figured it out yet so I had to chill with a cold Bud Light in hand but he went old school with The Electric Slide and I was able to join in on the fun.

The next performer was Ecko recording artist,Donnie Ray whom I dubbed about a year ago Southern Soul's best kept secret.Before he came on stage his guitar player and road manger(now thats working two jobs)called for all the ladies to come to the stage area and they were all led by members of The Kitty Kitty Club.I've been telling everyone for about a year now about my man D-Ray.He walked out on stage and received a nice ovation from the crowd.I sit back and observed the fans because I wanted to see how they were going to enjoy his performance.He opened his performance with "Bang That Thang" and he begin to simulate he was doing just that and the women went wild,with a blink of an eye D-Ray had stole the hearts of all the women down front and captured everyone else in attendance.His next song was "I'll Be Good To You" and he begin to ad-lib with the women and this is always popular with the fans.His next song,"Too Close For Comfort"(which is also one of my favorites)is a nice silky ballad that allowed him to swoon all the female fans and they were really feeling Mr. Donnie Ray."Get It While Its Hot" allowed D-Ray and his band,The Blues City All Stars to go into a synchronized dance routine that was well received by the fans who by now were puppets on a string and D-Ray was the puppet master."Down Home Blues" was his next selection and Chinese Williams(guitar player and road manager)had the crowd clapping their hands and stomping their feet as he displayed his skill on the guitar.His next song was a brand new single titled "Play It Off" and this is going to be another southern soul favorite for the fans.He closed his performance with my personal favorite "A Letter To My Baby" and I believe this was the song that the fans were really waiting to hear because he received his biggest ovation of the night when the band begin to play this song and he closed his performance with a bang.Donnie Ray is a terrifc singer with some slick dance moves that provides the fans with an awesome show especially the female fans.Columbus,Mississippi did exactly what I did the first time I saw D-Ray perform,they became BIG FANS of Donnie Ray.With his strong stage presence and charisma D-Ray will in my opinion become one of the top performers in the industry.Promoters and club owners please add this man to future shows I guarantee you will contact me and tell me Big Dawg you were right.For all the latest news on Donnie Ray please visit www.eckorecords.com

The next performer was Ecko recording artist,MS. Jody.I was very familar with her music but I've never had the opportunity to see her perform.As she walked out on stage I notice that a lot of the fellas had taken up residency down by the stage area but there were still plenty of females holding it down and showing Ms. Jody some love.She opened her performance with Peggy Scott Adams "I'm Getting What I Want" and this was well received by the crowd.Her next song was a rendition of Shirley Brown's"Too Much Candy" and I was impressed with her vocals on this cut.Can't no one sing a Shirley Brown song like Shirley Brown but anytime fans can hear one of her songs you know that there will be some love shown.She kept her Shirley Brown theme going with her next selection "I've Got To Sleep With One Eye Open".Her next two songs were from her debut cd, "Sugar Daddy" and "I Never Take A day Off" and she begin to get a lil bit more comfortable with her performance as she ad-lib with some of the fellas in the crowd.Her next song went over well with the ladies"What You Gonna Due When The Rent Is Due" got a nice ovation and a lot of the women were feeling this cut.Her next song,"You Dog Is About To Kill My Cat" had the crowd singing and laughing.She got the crowd dancing with "You Got To Know How To Work It" as she also started to shake a lil tail feather.She closed her performance with "Big Daddy Don't You Come" which is an uptempo song that allowed the dance party to continue.I was disappointed that she didn't perform "MS. Jody" because it was my personal favorite.If you are a fan of Peggy Scott Adams then you will enjoy MS. Jody,her music and vocal style definetly has that Jimmy Lewis and Peggy Scott Adams vibe to it.She is a newcomer on the southern soul scene but she is cut from the old school cloth.She has a nice voice and as she develops a stronger stage presence I expect to see her mature into a top entertainer among the southern soul divas.Yes with a lil more polish I do see a star on the rise.For all the latest MS. Jody news please visit www.eckorecords.com

The last performer of the night was "The Gentle Giant Of Southern Soul" Ecko recording artist,O.B. Buchana.Every fan in attendance(about 3,500) all directed their attention to the stage area.He received a thunderous ovation as he walked out on stage,yes both the women and men were showing The Gentle Giant much love.He must have felt all the love because he was really amped up as he told the crowd in a very explicit way lets get this party jumping.He opened his performance with "I'm In Love" and the ladies all agreed as they were going crazy down by the stage area.The moment was so surreal."Booty Scoot" was his next selection and he and his band members tore up the stage with their now very popular dance routine.He dances very well to be such a large man(Thanks for giving us big guys hope)."It's Over" was well received by the crowd as his soulful baritone voice(Tyrone Davis vibe)filled the night air.He has become so versatile with his vocals and this could be heard with his rendition of Al Green's "Love And Happiness".I am truly amazed by his vocals on this cut.How can someone belt out a Tyrone Davis sound and then harmonize Al Green?He gave the crowd a sample of a song that I wish he would perform at his shows,"Stage In The Sky" was done acapella and the crowd went wild as he briefly teased us with this cut."You Can Be A Fool And Don't Know It" sounded like another cut from the early Tyrone Davis years.His next song is one of my personal favorites,"Like My Woman" was well received as he begin to adlib with the men and women in attendance.He closed his performance with "Lets Get Drunk"(He downed a half gallon of Crown) and "Back Up Lover" which was the highlight of his performance as several women from the crowd got to go one on one with members of the band and the band got real FREAKY ya'll.For the grand finale O.B. and his hype man were joined on stage by a female fan and like a feather they picked her up in the air and O.B. spreaded her legs over his shoulder and began to simulate his version of "Candy Licking",Marvin Sease eat your damn heart out.He was a crowd pleaser on this night and I can honestly say that O.B. Buchana did his thang.I have to give him mad props and much love,"The Gentle Giant Of Southern Soul" is among the southern soul elite and is definetly one OF MY FAVORITE PERFORMERS.For all the latest news on O.B. Buchana please visit www.eckorecords.com

In closing I just want to say that Larry Chambers of Ecko Records has a very talented roster.I want to give a shout out to Mr. Leroy Brooks and let him know that the fans of this genre of music really appreciate what you have done,there aren't many like you my friend.The good people of Columbus and the surrounding area got the opportunity to see MS. Jody,Donnie Ray and O.B. Buchana for free and these hardworking artist gave us a show to remember.I also would like to give a shout out to Keith & Margie, MS. Jody,Donnie Ray,O.B. Buchana,the Kitty Kitty Club and Rick Mason.I would also like to give a special shout out to my lil sis Yulondra Topp.Yo-Yo I want to thank you for always being so supportive.You were truly the first one to encourage me that I was a positive face and voice for this blues and southern soul thang.I was so glad to finally be in your presence and have the opportunity to get my bluz on with you.And finally I won't be able to get out to many shows in the upcoming weeks.I know a lot of artist and promoters contact me and ask will I be able to make it to one of their shows but my fiance',Sylvia Burks(MZ K9) will be having surgery soon and all my time will be with her.I want you the fans to include Sylvia,myself and the kids in your prayers.I know she will have a sucessful surgery and a speedy recovery.Please continue to get your blues on and maybe some of you can take me on a blues and southern soul ride.Like always I had a great time at this show and I wanted to share it with you the greatest fans in the world.Take care and MAY GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU.

BIG K9

www.bigk9.net

Hello Blues and Southern Soul fans,2007 can be dubbed early on as the year of the outdoor blues shows.I've attended more outdoor shows this year than all of 2006 combined and looking at my calender for other shows that I plan on attending,there are several more to come.I love attending blues shows no matter where the venue is but I have to be honest I do love the outdoor shows a lil bit better.Sunshine and blue skies to go along with good music,good food and most of all good people and you have the setting for a blues paradise.Bentonia,Mississippi was paradise as it hosted the "1st ANNUAL YAZOO COUNTY BLUES FEST".It was a beautiful sunny day(hot as fish grease though) for this blues and southern soul gathering.When I arrived it looked more like a big family reunion was going on,there were the usual spectators on hand with the lawn chairs and ice chests but to my suprise there were a lot of kids on hand, oh sure I've seen kids at these outdoor shows in the past but it was the number of kids that caught my eye.The promoters for this show must have welcomed grown ups and kids because there were plenty of those large inflatable gadgets(the ones where the kids jump around in) on hand that allowed the kids to have Christmas in June.It was a BYOE(Bring your own everything) affair,there were also plenty of vendors on hand and the smell of hot wings,bar-b-que,fried fish and other down home southern cusines filled the air.The smell of the catfish was too much for me so you know I had to get me a plate,well two plates.It was a nice crowd on hand for this show,the lineup included Reggie P,Omar Cunningham,Wilson Meadows,Vick Allen and special guests Lebrado and Billy "Soul" Bonds.The mc was WMPR(90.1 FM Jackson,MS) radio personality DJ Outlaw.With the gin and juice on hand chased with plenty of cold Bud Lights,sit back good people and allow me to take you on this blues and southern soul ride.

The first performer was The Prince of Southern Soul,Reggie P.I've seen a few of his shows now and its one thing that I can honestly say about his performances,I never know what he is going to do and sometimes I don't even think Reggie P knows what he is going to do.He hit the stage and the crowd went wild.I guess waiting in the shade allowed the fans to get their drank on because they were as the young folks would say,crunk up in here.He opened his performance with a rendition of Bobby Womack's "Nobody Wants You".He begin to ad-lib with the crowd using some grown folks language,I had to look around because of the number of kids that were on hand and wouldn't you know it,kids will always be kids because all of them were playing their lil hearts out and allowing the grown folks to enjoy the music.His next song was "Come On Girl" and man did the ladies come.They all flocked down by the stage to get their groove on.His next song was "Hold On" and anyone that has seen his show knows he can't stay on the stage and like vintage Reggie P he exited stage left and walked through the crowd.Midway through the song there was a long pause(I guess about a minute and a half) as he continued his tour through the crowd.I never understood this but the title of the song is "Hold On" so I guess he had to do just that but the crowd all loved it.He made his way back to the stage and did a wonderful rendition of Z.Z. Hill's "Down Home Blues".He closed his performance with his hit single "Why Me" and he received his biggest ovation.Reggie P was very energetic with his performance and this set a great tone for the rest of the show.To get more info on Reggie P please visit ALLINSON RECORDS at www.allinsonrecords.com

After Reggie P's crunk performance DJ Outlaw announced that he had a couple of special guests on hand,the first guest he brought to the stage was Mr. Scat Cat himself,Billy Soul Bonds.I thought that he was going to bless us with a song or two but he only acknowledge the crowd and his time on stage was very brief.The second special guest had no intentions of doing that.IFGAM recording artist,Lebrado was introduced and the ladies started to scream.For those of you who aren't familar with him he is the younger brother of the r&b duo K-Ci and Jo Jo(Jodeci) but he is making a name for himself in the southern soul industry.He acknowledge the crowd and then to everyone's delight begin to perform "Try Me" from his latest cd with the same namesake.He closed his time on stage with the hit song that propelled him to southern soul popularity,"Missing You"(I miss them good old days)and this got everyone on their feet and dancing.I really enjoyed his time on stage.For more info on Billy Soul Bonds please visit www.malaco.com and to get all the latest news on Lebrado please go to his website at www.lebrado.com

The next performer was my man Omar Cunningham.His shows in my area are far and few but whenever he's in the area I make it my business to try and get there.Before he came on stage I noticed three female backup singers and they were harmonizing oh so sweet as Omar made it to the stage area.He received a huge ovation from the crowd and the stage area was now packed with several of the female fans screaming.He opened his performance with "Before I Let You Go" and I rose to my feet to watch this performance.His next song was "Hell At The House" and with the gin and juice kicking in this jam had me trying to cut a rug.He slowed it down with "Baby Don't Leave Me" and this had some of the couples holding each other tight.His next song caught me by suprise.He did a rendition of Johnnie Taylor's "Last Two Dollars" and you know any JT cut will get a crowd going and Omar did his thang on this one.I was really suprised by the depth of his vocals on this one. His next song was my personal favorite,"Sweet,Sweet" and it sounded just like its namesake.I've always boasted that in my opinion Omar has THE BEST LIVE VOCALS in the industry and it continues to remain true.This song should be played on all the mainstream radio stations and his face should be seen on BET,MTV and VH1.He picked up the tempo with his hit "Married Woman,Married Man" as he gave a shout out to someone named Big K9.He closed his performance with the song that introduced us to the best live vocals in the industry."Check To Check" had everyone on their feet and dancing once again.Omar Cunningham's body of work speaks for itself.He is one of the top performers in the industry and did I mention that he has THE BEST LIVE VOCALS IN THE INDUSTRY.Damn good show.To get more info on Omar Cunningham please visit his website at www.endzonerecords.com and his myspace page at www.myspace.com/omarcham

The next performer of the night was one of my favorite artists,the smooth crooner Wilson Meadows.It has been awhile since I last seen him perform.He received a nice ovation as he walked out on stage.He opened his performance with a cut song earlier by Omar,yes JT was given some love on this night as he belted out his version of "Last Two Dollars" and the crowd didn't seem to mind that they had just heard it sang a few minutes ago.During this song Wilson's guitar player Lil 2 Hype gave the crowd a thrill as he went to his knees and almost tumbled backwards grinding out a mean guitar lick.He was set on making this a dance party as he performed "Stroll It".His next song was my personal favorite,"Baby I Promise" filled the night air as I did my personal sing along(too much gin will do that).He did an outstanding rendition of The Love Doctors "Slow Roll It" and this one lady by the stage area stole the moment with her seductive dance version.LAWD HAVE MERCY!Let me just say this every man in attendance cheated on their wives or girlfriends doing this dance routine.DAMN!His next two songs were "I Wanna See You" and "Love Bomb".He was suppose to close his performance with the southern soul classic "Still My Love" but at the end of it the women down front wanted to hear "Just Like I Promised" and Wilson Meadows being the artist that he is,couldn't refuse them so he closed his performance with a bang and the women down front were very appreciative.Wilson Meadows is a smooth crooner that I've always enjoyed.You can purchase his music on several websites including www.amazon.com and www.cduniverse.com

The last performer of the night was the artist that I wanted to see the most.It was late and like other shows many in attendance were beginning to leave but there were still some true dedicated fans on hand to see Vick Allen do his thing.I've seen his performance a couple of times awhile back and I wanted to see how he handle himself on stage.As he walked out on stage I quickly noticed that his stage presence was a lot different from the last time I saw him perform.He looked more comfortable and confident.He opened his performance with "I Better Walk Away" and his soulful voice came across very well on this cut.His next song was "I'm Giving It Up" and this allowed a few of the remaining fans to cut a rug,one lady even kicked her shoes off.His next song was his newest single and my personal favorite,fans I know that this one is going to be a smash hit for him."Baby Come Back Home" is dominating all of the southern soul airways and should be played on mainstream radio.This is a jam that all music lovers can relate too.Vick had the crowd grooving on this cut.You can hear a lil Al Green vibe as his terrific voice echoed through the night.For all you fans who haven't heard this cut yet please do so and I mean very soon.His next song was one that he wrote for his mentor and friend,Willie Clayton.He gave a very soul-stirring performance of "I Love Me Some You" and it sounded oh so good.This gut wrenching version made you think back to his days singing along side Harvey Watkins Jr. and The Canton Spirituals.In other words he took us to church with that tune. I love to see artist paying tribute to the old school and his next two selections brought everyone front and center and cutting a rug.Tyrone Davis "If I could Turn Back The Hands Of Time" and "Give It Up,Turn It Loose" filled the night air.It was a great tribute to Tyrone Davis.He closed his performance with "Lets Dance" and the crowd was in total agreement.His performance was more polished since the other times I saw him perform and with his soulful voice I only expect to see and hear great things from this talented brother.For more info on Vick Allen please visit his website at www.vickallen.com and on myspace at www.myspace.com/vickallen

In closing I would like to say to the fans lets continue to support the artists of this genre of music.I'll never know why this genre of music get black balled by mainstream radio.A few of these artists SHOULD be mainstream artists.I've listened to the likes of Usher,R. Kelly,Akon, and other so called mainstream artists and just can't figure out why Omar Cunningham,Sir Charles,T.K. Soul,O.B. Buchana,Willie Clayton and other artists of this genre of music are labled southern soul blues artists.I'm thankful to be able to not only listen to these talented artists but also have the opportunity to see them all live right here in my own neck of the woods.For all of you who buy Usher and Akon cds they aren't coming to Greenville,Greenwood and Bentonia,MS.They not coming to Ruston,Lafayette and Monroe,LA,they not coming to Pritchard,Huntsville and Dothan,AL but I know you can see the hardworking artists of this genre of music in all those places, so again fans I urge you to continue to support these artists.I want to give a shout out to Reggie P,Billy Soul Bonds,Lebrado,Omar Cunningham,Wilson Meadows and Vick Allen who all took the time to meet,greet and take some terrifc photos for the fans.Also I would like to give a shout out to DJ Outlaw,Lil 2 Hype(Wilson Meadows guitar player),Brenda(from T.K. Soul's camp),members of Soul For Real(T.K. Soul's band)Tshenay(Vick Allen's backup singer and Tammy(Reggie P's camp).I really had a great time at this show and like always I just wanted to share it with you the greatest fans in the world.TAKE CARE AND MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALWAYS.

BIG K9
www.bigk9.net

THE FIRST ANNUAL STONE SOUL PICNIC MUSIC FESTIVAL"

Hello Blues and Southern Soul fans.I was sitting here reflecting back on my childhood when my aunts,uncles,cousins and other friends of the family would all return home to Mississippi and attend the annual outdoor Blues Festivals held in the Mississippi Delta.Back then the outdoor shows were plentiful and the lineups would include such legends like Tyrone Davis,Johnnie Taylor,Z.Z. Hill,Bobby Blue Bland,Latimore,Little Milton and Denise Lasalle just to name a few.I was too young to attend these shows but I can remember all the excitement and fun that was generated around town.These were simplier and better times I guess you could call them the good old days.Fast forward some twenty plus years and the outdoor Blues festivals are far and few,a lot of that can be contributed to the emergence of the Casinos,the closing of the good old fashioned juke joints and the recent deaths of the blues legends that made these festivals really come to life.I was so happy to attend a recent outdoor blues festival here in the heart of the Mississippi Delta.The event was themed "THE FIRST ANNUAL STONE SOUL PICNIC MUSIC FESTIVAL" and Greenville,Mississippi played host to this Blues and Southern Soul gathering.The lineup was a who's who in the blues and southern soul industry and it included Betty Padgett,Nathaniel Kimble,Billy Soul Bonds,Bobby Blue Bland,J. Blackfoot,Sir Charles,Shirley Brown and Bobby Rush.The promoters estimated it was a crowd of about 3,500 fans on hand but it appeared to be closer to 5,000 if you were to ask me.There were plenty of vendors on hand and the air was filled with the smell of bar-b-q,fried fish,hot wings and other down home southern style food to enjoy(damn I'm hungry just talking about it).The promoters allowed the fans to bring their coolers so you know it was plenty of cold beer and alcohol on hand to get this blues and southern soul event crunk(I guess thats how the young folks use that phrase).I was joined by fellow Dawg Pound member "Chill Will" and there were other familar faces present."The Kitty,Kitty Club","The Arkansas Divas" and a few more of my coworkers including Lillian McGee who was one of the vendors on hand and man her hot wings were simply Da Bomb!It was a beautiful sunny day but I can't lie it was hot as fish grease.I've set the scene so good people sit back and let me take you on this blues and southern soul ride.

This won't be a typical drawn out Big K9 concert review.I wasn't working this show like I normally do because I was having too much fun(I think its time for me to hire a staff to help cover these shows lol).I have to be honest never in my wildest dreams did I ever think that I would be so well recognized and received at these blues and southern soul events but it happened at this show.There were several fans who all recognized me from my concert reviews and photos and I spent more time socializing at this show than in recent memory.I want to take this time to thank all the fans who really appreciate the fruits of my labor and this show of support and love is why I continue to bring you the fans so much news,photos and other info about this genre of music.I am glad to be a positive face and voice for this industry and I'm so glad that I continue to remain humble with all this newfound recognition.

The first artist to hit the stage was the lovely diva,Betty Padgett.She was well received by the crowd and she didn't disappoint.Along with her backup singer,Dottie a.k.a. Lady D she got the show started with a bang.She received her biggest ovation when she performed her smash hit "Never Coming Home".She has instantly become one of my favorite female artist.My homeboy Nathaniel Kimble was up next and I was waiting to see if he was going to have a letdown from the last time I saw him perform because the last show that I saw him perform was in my opinion his best.I'm happy to report that he didn't disappoint.Greenville is his own backyard and the hometown folks showed him much love."Can U Bagg It Up" naturally got the biggest ovation but "You Are The One" was the highlight of his performance for me.He is progressing very well as an artist and I look forward to seeing him again real soon.Billy Soul Bonds was the next performer and he had the women excited with his bang-bang sock it to me dance moves.He performed several of his songs with "Scat,Cat Here Kitty Kitty" receiving the loudest ovation but it was his classic hit "Baby I've Been Missing You" that I enjoyed the most.He put a lot of energy into his performance and the crowd was very appreciative.I was very excited about the next performer.Blues legend Bobby Blue Bland hit the stage and everyone rose to their feet and I thought that was the ultimate respect that an artist can garner.I watched his entire performance with an attentive ear.With the recent deaths of some of our beloved legends I wanted to cherish this performance.He song all my favorite Bobby Blue Bland hits including "Members Only","Stormy Monday" and my personal favorite "You Got To Hurt Before You Heal".It was a magnificent performance and the crowd poured out a lot of love and appreciation for this living legend.I hope and pray that he will be around for a lot of years and that I will be able to share plenty more of his performances with you.Greenville,Mississippi native,J. Blackfoot was on next and he received much love from his hometown.He has always been one of my favorite artist and its simply a joy to watch him perform.Of course "Taxi" received the most fanfare but it was the sight of The Queen,Ann Hines that I really enjoyed the most.Their duet "Just One Lifetime" ranks as one of the top duets in southern soul history.They haven't performed together in recent shows(about a year and half to be exact) so to see them reunited and performing together was truly special.For his last song he was joined on stage by Sir Charles and you can only imagine how the crowd reacted as they did a sample of their smash hit "I'm Just A Fool Part 2".After that performance special guest Reggie P was introduced and he received a nice ovation from the crowd.He performed from a music track his smash hit "Why Me" and this got the crowd on their feet.Sir Charles was the next performer and you know the crowd erupted as he hit the stage.The ladies all melted as he performed such classic hits as "Is There Anybody Lonely","Natural Woman", and "Drop That Thang".He received his biggest ovation on "Slow Roll It" as he was joined on stage by Reggie P and they excited the women with their seductive and vulgar slow roll it dance routine.For his final song he was joined on stage by J. Blackfoot and again they performed a sample of their duet "I'm Just A Fool For You Part 2".Up next was the soulful diva,Shirley Brown.She was helped on stage and I notice that she was walking very gently.I hope that she is doing ok physically.I can tell you now that there isn't anything wrong with her voice as she performed a few of her classic hits including "Respect","Poon Tang Man","Too Much Candy" and "Sleep With One Eye Open".Though limited with her physical motion on stage her voice still remain one of the best in the industry.The next performer was another living legend,Sue's boyfriend Bobby Rush hit the stage and after hours of being entertained the still large crowd gave him a thunderous ovation.By now a lot of the guys in attendace had made their way down by the stage and when his dancers came out I can't blame them one bit.I've seen his show numerous times and I believe his dancers are still the favorite with the fellas.He had the crowd singing,dancing and laughing with his performance."Night Fishing" was my favorite part of his performance.He remains one of the top performers in the industry.Several local artist closed this spectacular event with Mississippi Slim performance standing out the most.His version of "I was Checkin Out And She Was Checkin In" is still one of my personal favorites.

The promoters for this event announced that this will be an annual event and myself along with thousands of other fans can't wait.I had so much fun at this event.I spent a lot of time talking with other fans and most of the artists who performed so I wasn't on the job like normal but I was still able to cover most of the show and I wanted to share it with all of you.Trust me fans its hardwork out here for real but I am on the job.I want to give a shout out to Nathaniel Kimble,J.Blackfoot,Ann Hines,Cyreio Hughes,Sir Charles,Bobby Rush and Reggie P who all took the time to converse and take some wonderful photos.To my fellow Dawg Pound member Chill Will I had a blast and now that you got a new truck I can ride shotgun to upcoming shows.Like always I did have a wonderful time at this event and I wanted to share it with you the greatest fans in the world.Take care and MAY GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU.

Big K9
www.bigk9.net

"FIRST ANNUAL OLD SCHOOL PLAYERS BALL"

Hello Blues and Southern Soul fans,Spring time is here and this is probably my favorite time of the year.The weather is starting to warm up(I hate cold weather) and the Blues and Southern Soul shows are plentiful this time of the year.I receive a lot of emails from fans of this genre of music and many of them want to know when and where can they find a good show to attend?People who read my concert reviews say they are able to see themselves at these shows through my words.I received an email a couple of months ago from a southern soul fan who stated she had never attended a show before but after reading some of my concert reviews,she said,she can't wait for the opportunity to attend her first blues and southern soul show.This is why I truly enjoy bringing you the fans these reviews,so let me say thank you to all the fans of this genre of music who really appreciate the fruits of my labor.

Recently I attended "The First Annual Old School Players Ball" held at The Whitehaven Celebration Complex in Memphis,Tennessee.The lineup for this show was Larome Powers,Roni and Mr. Scat Cat himself,Billy "Soul" Bonds.I heard about this show only a few days prior to the show and I wasn't quite sure if I was even going to make it.I was anticipating a large crowd for this event but to my suprise it wasn't hardly anyone in attendance.I made my way to the bar and then I saw Roni's manger Steve Ganaway,we chatted briefly and were soon joined by the CEO of B&J Records,Anna Coday(wife of recording artist Bill Coday).Also in attendace were recording artist Pat Brown,"Kitty Kitty Club" members Bluz Queen,ACT-N-BAD-4-U, and Miss Two Weeks Notice.I've always said that you don't need a big crowd to enjoy a show so with only a handful of people in attendance and my cold Bud Light on hand sit back good people and allow me to take you on this blues and southern soul ride.

The first artist to come to the stage was Waldoxy recording artist,Larome Powers.I met him at The Cotton Capital Festival in Greenwood,Mississippi a few months ago.I was familar with his music so I was looking forward to seeing him perform.He opened his performance with his smash hit,"Shake & Shimmey" which is very popular on the southern soul charts.Usually an artist will save their biggest hit to close a performance but Larome wanted to make a big impression for the small crowd on hand and like so many of his peers it worked to perfection.He left the stage and stood in the midst of The Kitty Kitty Club and begin to get his shake and shimmey on.Act-N-Bad-4-U was dancing like her namesake and the rest of us in attendace enjoyed every minute of it.His next song was "Get Down On It" and he refused to go back on stage as he made his way to another table of females and he really begin to get down on it.One young lady wasn't ready for this grown folk style of dancing as she buried her face with shame as Larome continued to hump,bump and grind all over her(poor baby).I believed he only planned to do a couple of songs but his love affair with the ladies in attendance had him performing some of his other songs including "I Feel Like Cheating","Nothin But A Party","Lets Make Love Tonight(I really liked that one)","Are You Lonely(another nice cut)" and "Won't You Forgive Me".He didn't have a live band but I was still impressed with his vocals.He has the sound of a seasoned southern soul artist and I believe with the backing of a live band his baritone voice will win over a crowd and this will help to establish him into a fine performer.To hear the sounds of Larome Powers please purchase his latest cd titled "What's Life Without Love".I believe the people in attendace really enjoyed his performance and I know for sure that The Kitty Kitty Club are now fans of Larome Powers.

The next performer of the night was "The Sexy Lady Of Southern Soul",Roni and I was so glad to have the opportunity to see her perform again.The crowd led by myself and the Kitty Kitty Club gave her a nice ovation as she came to the stage.She received her biggest ovation from the fellas who were really captivated by this Sexy diva.This was my second time seeing her perform and just like the first time,to see her walk out on stage is truly breath-taking. She thanked the people in attendace for coming out to support her which I thought was a really nice and professional gesture especially with such a small crowd on hand.She opened up her performance with a rendition of Betty Wright's "Cleanup Woman" and man did she begin to belt out this tune.The crowd was very appreciative as they gave her another nice applause.The Kitty Kitty Club once again were making the most noise down front and you would think that it was a full house with all the love they were showing this southern soul diva.The first time I saw her peform she didn't have a live band but now she did and oh what a difference a live band can do for a performance.Her soulful voice filled the air and she had everyone feeling this cut.Her next song was "A Woman Needs Love" and she left the stage area and begin to distibute her cds to the people in attendance.How cool is that?Not only do you get to see her perform live you also receive a free cd.Now you know the audience were loving her now."Do You Want What I Want " was her next selection and me personally,I won't answer that question but I can only imagine how the fellas felt.Betty Wright must have had a big influence on her as she performed a terrific version of "Tonight Is The Night".I was blown away by the depth of her vocals as she had the small crowd all on their feet.She kept the old school theme going with a remarkable rendition of the 70's r&b trio Honey Cone's "Want Ads" and she asked if there were any single men in the house?I couldn't tell it was a small crowd on hand,like a cohesive unit a reply of yes was belted out from some of the fellas in attendance.She had the crowd involved in her show and this was making this a magnificent performance.She begin performing some of her songs from her latest cd,"Call Me" allowed her to slow this southern soul party down.This is a nice slow jam that allowed a few of the couples in attendance to get their slow dance on.Once again she was able to showcase her amazing voice.With the backing of her band this song came across very well.Her next song,"Freaky" got the crowd back their feet as she let everyone in attendance know that there is no shame in her game."Not Gonna Beg" is a nice song that had a lil Mary J Blige vibe to it.I guess the highlight of her performance came when she performed "Let's Shake It",a female fan joined her on stage and she begin to drop it like it was hot and then it was Roni's turn and LAWD HAVE MERCY!The way she shook her money maker you would think that she was back in her days with Nathaniel Kimble as she sho nuff bagged it up.She closed her performance with her biggest hit to date,"A Fool On My Hands" received the biggest ovation of the night.She ad-lib with the crowd with some explicit lyrics and you know this sits well with a southern soul crowd.She paid a tribute to her friend,our beloved Jackie Neal and people who know me well can only imagine how sentimental I felt doing this tribute.Everyone in attendance applauded as she paid tribute to our fallen angel.Roni has truly grown as an artist and performer since the last time I saw her perform.The presence of a live band really showcased her vocals on this night and with her ability to ad-lib with the crowd,those eye popping,sexy dance moves makes her show a must see.Its truly sad that more people weren't on hand to see this young lady perform but Roni my friend I commend you for giving those in attendance one hell of a show.

Unfortunately it was late and I had to leave following Roni's performance but Bluz Queen told me that Billy Soul Bonds kept the party going with "For Your Precious Love" "Baby I've Been Missing You" and "Scat Cat,Here Kitty Kitty".

I would like to take this time to say to all the promoters out there.You have some loyal blues and southern soul fans out here and I think its time to start putting some more upcoming artists and females on these shows that the fans come out to support.I can't tell anyone how to handle their business but with all the emails and just talking to some of the fans they want to see the likes of Walter Waiters,Steve Perry,Lil Fallay,Lil Phil,Sergio Davis,Roni,Ms. Monique,Sheba Potts-Wright,Karen Wolfe,Monique Ford,Dionne,Joy and too many other artists like the above mention perform.I think its enough room to share this blues and southern soul thang.I want to help keep this genre of music alive and I especially want to help make it grow.I want to give a shout out to Larome Powers,Billy Soul Bonds,Pat Brown,Anna Coday,Steve Ganaway,Roni and the members of The Kitty Kitty Club.I really enjoyed this show and I just wanted to share it with you all,the greatest fans in the world.Take care and MAY GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU.

Big K9

www.bigk9.net

"MEGA BLUES FEST FRIDAY"

Hello Blues and Southern Soul fans.The first couple of months of the year are always the best time for the blues and southern soul shows in THE MAGNOLIA STATE(Mississippi).From the top half,thru the central on to the bottom half this time of the year you can see some of the biggest name recording artists in the industry performing for the GOOD people in Mississippi.After a long hard day at work I was able to travel down to the central part of the state and unwind with the good people in Vicksburg,Mississippi.

TOO SWEET PRODUCTIONS played host to a southern soul party dubbed "MEGA BLUES FEST FRIDAY".The lineup for this show was truly an all-star lineup with three of my very favorite artists on the roster.The lineup included my homeboy,"The Gentle Giant Of Southern Soul",O.B. Buchana,my very good friend,"The Bad Boy Of Southern Soul",T.K. Soul and the "King Of Southern Soul",Sir Charles Jones.The good people in Vicksburg sho-nuff know how to party southern soul style.BYOB was in full effect so you know the drinks and food were plentiful.I always describe this enviroment as being a festive one.The Vicksburg Auditorium was the site for this southern soul party and it was standing room only inside.I love to see a full house for these hardworking artists and when I say full house there weren't anymore seats available.The staff for tonights show tried to get in extra chairs which did provide some relief for a few fans but there were many others that just had to Stand Up In This One.When I arrived,there were some familar faces in the house,my homeboy and honorary Dawg Pound member,Nathaniel Kimble was there,the CEO of Foxy Productions,Levonne Sampson was there and looking quite charming I should say,Ecko recording artist Ms. Jody was in da house,my friend Vickie from Hattiesburg,MS was present and too my suprise a couple of co-workers Melissa and Eleasah Granberry made the trip from the Delta after a long hard day of work.The smell of chicken wings and fried fish was too much for me so I directed myself to the kitchen and I wasn't bashful when I ordered my food.Lets keep it simple,I'm writing this review several hours after the show and I'm still not hungry at all.I usually don't get frustrated at a show but I guess its a first Sunday in everyday of the week.Showtime was scheduled for 8:00 P.M. but the soundman for whatever reasons wasn't available and this set the start time way back and really pi**ed off a lot of fans including myself.I must have consumed my normal intake of alcohol before the start of a show but finally after an almost two hour delay somebody had the sound checks straight.So with my gin & juice starting to kick in and my belly satisfied,sit back good people and allow me to take you on this blues and southern soul ride.

A local band by the name,The Project Band opened up the show and the people in attendance gave them a decent reception.All the vocals were done by three females who did renditions of some classic soul hits such as Betty Wright's "Cleanup Woman","Tonight Is The Night", and Denise Lasalle "Trapped By A Thing Called Love".I could tell that the promoters were in rush mode because as they were about to perform The Staple Singers,"I'll Take You There" and the mc's came on stage and abbreviated their performance.Overall it was a good performance and they did set a good tone for tonight's show.

It was announced that a suprise guest was in the house and the guest was none other than "The Prince Of Southern Soul",Reggie P who blessed the crowd with a couple of his hit singles(No band,just a music track) including my personal favorite "Why Me" and of course Reggie P was in the audience for the majority of this brief performance and the crowd loved it.Reggie P,keep doing da damn thang.

The next performer on the night was "The Gentle Giant Of Southern Soul",O.B. Buchana.He hit the stage with aggression and he received a thunderous ovation."I'm In Love" was the beginning of the most exciting performance that I've ever seen from the gentle giant."Booty Scoot" was his next selection and he and his band members have been putting in time on rehearsing some very slick dance moves that went over very well with the crowd.He dances very well to be such a large man(Thanks for giving us big guys hope)."It's Over" allowed O.B. to showcase his deep soulful baritone voice and this vocal style always remind me of our beloved Tyrone Davis.The first time I heard him perform his next selection it caught me off guard but not this time.He did a rendition of Al Green's "Love And Happiness" and fans you got to hear this man sing this song."You Can Be A Fool And Don't Know It" sounded like another cut from the early Tyrone Davis years.His next song is one of my personal favorites,"Like My Woman" was well received as he begin to adlib with the men and women in attendance and like all other male performers who aren't ashame to display their lizard,excuse me their tounge he boasted that Willie Clayton and Marvin Sease ain't got sh*t on him and when he opened his mouth and displayed his lizard I agree sorry Willie and Marvin.He closed his performance with "Lets Get Drunk"(He downed a half gallon of Crown) and "Back Up Lover" which was the highlight of his performance as several women from the crowd got to go one on one with members of the band.O.B. and his hype man were joined on stage by a female fan and like a feather they picked her up in the air and O.B. spreaded her legs over his shoulder and began to simulate his version of "Candy Licking",Marvin Sease eat your damn heart out.O.B. was a crowd pleaser on this night and I can honestly say that he has arrived as a terrific vocalist and showman.AWESOME PERFORMANCE!

The next performer on the night was "The Bad Boy Of Southern Soul",T,K. Soul and before I go into his review allow me to acknowledge his band,"Soul 4 Real".This has got to be one of the top bands in the industry.I don't want to disrepect or p*ss off any of the other hardworking bands with that statement but with all of T.K. Soul's individual accolades they are the rock and a very solid foundation that provides the groundwork for this hit machine.At every show I attend these brothers show me much love and they are hardly mentioned in my reviews so to the baddest band in the land continue to let it do what it do baby. He opened his performance with "Meet Me At The Spot" and the women down front were screaming with pure excitement.He and his band went into a dance routine and this received a nice ovation from the crowd.His next song was "My Kind Of Girl" and T.K. was performing at a high level so I could tell that he was really trying to get the crowd pumped up for this show and believe me the entire auditorium was definetly pumped up.It was very late by now(1:00 am)and the promoters were trying to rush his performance but T.K. being the supreme performer was still able to come across well with "If You Don't Want Me" toward the end of this song he paid tribute to all the beautiful women in attendance with a version of Beyonce's "Irreplaceable" and once again he's found a new routine for his show and the ladies loved it."You Ring My Bell" was his next song and he placed five chairs on stage and five women from the audience were selected to sit on stage and one by one they all received their qualty time(Explicit grown folks dancing) with "The Bad Boy Of Southern Soul".He closed his performance with "Party Like Back In The Day","It Ain't Cheating Til You Get Caught" and "Cheatin And Lying".Once again T.K. Soul was the man.I've seen his shows on numerous occassions and it never gets old.Damn Good Performance!

The last performer of the night was "The King Of Southern Soul",Sir Charles Jones.It was damn near 2:00 am and the house was still packed.In my last review I said that at the end of a show the crowd usually will begin to pour out on the last performer,I stated that with no disrespect to other artists I could only think of three performers who can keep a crowd to the very end of a show and I named T.K. Soul as one and for this show the second performer was on hand,Sir Charles.Its simply amazing to see after hours of being packed in like sardines no one had left the building and fans it was now 2:00 am.He opened up his performance with "Friday" and the ladies begin to make some serious noise.I don't believe the women were even listening to him sing just being in his presence seemed to be enough for them.He did abbreviatied portions of some of his top hits including "Just Can't Let Go","Drop That Thang", and "Natural Woman".The highlight of his performance was on "Slow Roll It" as he was joined on stage by Reggie P and O.B. Buchana and they all belted out their own rendition of this southern soul classic but they were just getting started as they all joined in on a synchronized dance routine which consisted of several hip thrusting, bone it like you own it,I'll lick it before I stick it, and I'll stand up in it all night long(grown folks stuff ya'll) and the crowd exploded.He closed his performance with "Is There Anybody Lonely".In a business where rumored egos do exist Sir Charles gave a shout out to Reggie P,O.B. Buchana,T.K. Soul and Nathaniel Kimble and he called all of them his friends.I thought that this was a very classy gesture and it was very refreshing to hear and see.Good Performance!

In closing I don't like to say who had the best performance because I ALWAYS ENJOY ALL THE ARTISTS PERFORMANCES.On a night with two of the biggest players in the game present,T.K. Soul and Sir Charles Jones my man O.B. Buchana did his thang and I have to give him mad props and much love,"The Gentle Giant Of Southern Soul" is among the southern soul elite. I would like to give some shout outs to Keith Miles, Levonne Sampson,Ms. Jody,Nathaniel Kimble,O.B. Buchana and crew,T.K. Soul and Soul 4 Real,Reggie P,Sir Charles,Vickie and a special shout out to my co-workers,Melissa and Eleasah(I'll see you all back on the grind).Like always I had a great time at this show and I wanted to share it with you the greatest fans in the world.Take care and MAY GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU.

Big K9

www.bigk9.net

ULTIMATE VALENTINES BLUES SHOW"

Hello Blues and Southern Soul fans.Febuary is a month of observance,first it is recognized in this country as "BLACK HISTORY MONTH" and we pay special attention to the contributions,achievements and the legacy of so many great African-Americans in this country.I personally hope that we remember these things not only in Febuary but throughout our everyday existance.Also in Febuary we look on with much anticipation to see if the groundhog will see his shadow and this is suppose to predict the type of weather we will have for the upcoming weeks,yeah right,(I'm through with that one already).Finally there is "VALENTINES DAY",this is without a doubt the most popular day in Febuary.Love is the theme and millions of married and single couples display their devotion to one another with flowers,candy and other things that make you spend your hard earned money on.Well this Valentines Day weekend Rico Owens,the CEO of HUSTLE ENTERTAINMENT provided the wonderful people in the Mississippi Delta with some serious love.The Clarksdale Civic Auditorium in Clarksdale,Mississippi played host to "DA ULTIMATE VALENTINES DAY BLUES SHOW".You all have heard me give much praise to Rico Owens in the past and I hate to sound redundant but I have to just let everyone know that this young man continues to provide the great fans of this Blues and Southern Soul thang with the best and hottest recording artists that this genre of music has to offer.The lineup for this Southern Soul Blues Party was local recording artist Mississippi Slim,Betty Padgett,Nathaniel Kimble,Steve Perry and T.K. Soul.

I was joined on this night by my fellow Dawg Pound member Will Lindsey a.k.a. Chill Will and honorary Dawg Pound member,"The Gentle Giant Of Southern Soul" O.B. Buchana.There were a few familar faces in attendance as we arrived early for the show.My Godfather,Jerry"Boogie"Mason from THE BOOGIE REPORT was the first familar face that we saw.Its always good to go bluzing with the Godfather.Big Joc from WBAD was in the house and Sho-Lo Johnson who was the mc for tonights show was also in the house.Also in attendance were a couple of my in-laws,members from "The Kitty Kitty Club",the "Arkansas Divas" and a slew of other friends and co-workers.As always the local sound man had the likes of Tyrone Davis,J. Blackfoot and Johnnie Taylor sounding oh so good as people were beginning to settle in for tonight's show.It was a BYOB affair so you can already imagine what the atmosphere was like for this Southern Soul party.The smell of hot wings and fried fish were coming from the kitchen in the back and the good people in Clarksdale were grooving to the great sounds being played.It was now showtime,so with my gin and juice chased with cold bud light starting to kick in and Chill Will and O.B. Buchana chilling in DA DAWG POUND good people let me take you on this Blues and Southern Soul ride.

Local recording artist Mississippi Slim opened the show and he opened with a bang.I remember it was a time I wouldn't arrive early to a show because I didn't care about the opening act but Mississippi Slim has changed all that.He began his performance with Z.Z. Hill's "Down Home Blues" and the place immediately begin to rock.He continued with several B.B. King and Bobby Blue Bland hits but he closed his performance with my personal favorite "I Was Checking In,She Was Checkin Out".With his rendition of this one song he can headline a show.I can listen to him sing this song a thousand times.I wasn't the only one enjoying this cut as I glanced around the room.I don't know if he was hitting home for some folks but he sure had them going with this selection even O.B. Buchana was soulfully enjoying this cut.He now set a nice tone for the rest of the show.Good Performance.

The next performer of the night was the delightful Betty Padgett and this was a much anticipated performance for me.I was familar with her music but I've never seen her perform before.Like so many artist that I've never seen perform before,I wanted to see the type of stage presence an artist has and this dictates to me the type of a performer an artist really is,well I can throw all that out for this performance.She walked out on stage and she received a wonderful ovation from the people in attendance.She opened her performance with "Love Light" and I could tell that she was no stranger to the stage.Like so many of her peers she begin to ad-lib with the crowd and they welcomed her with another big applause.She was able to feed off the crowd and for her next song she left the stage.If you are going to do a rendition of someone else song you better come correct somebody should have told me that Aretha Franklin recorded Betty Padgett's "Dr. Feel Good".I love Aretha dearly but Betty Padgett's version of this song is the best I've ever heard.She walked around the entire auditorium and even held my hand briefly as she belted out this soul-stirring rendition of "Dr. Feel Good".Just like Jeff Floyd she has argurably one of the most powerful live female voices that I've ever heard.She now had the crowd at her command.She made her way back to the stage for "Don't Jump My Pony" which got everyone up on their feet,"Treat Your Man Like A Baby" allowed her to display her supple vocals.She closed her performance with her biggest hit to date,"Never Coming Home" this song is making a big mark on the blues and southern soul charts,dominating everyone's playlist and its also my personal favorite.Once again she left the stage area and worked her way around the auditorium as her sultry but soulful voice filled the room.She received her biggest ovation of the night.Her performance might have been new for me but the way she performed I could tell that she has been doing this awhile.Betty Padgett has a strong stage presence with a very powerful voice.She is definetly from the old school with a Denise Lasalle sound mixed with a soulful Aretha Franklin.I hate it took one song for me to get familar with this beautiful and talented young lady who has definetly paid her dues in this industry but I'm also glad that I am very familar with her now.After the show I had the opportunity to talk with her and she told me that she was already familar with me so you know I really love her dearly for that.We took a few photos and agreed to stay in touch.For fans who haven't heard this wonderful lady sing I urge you to please do so and soon,the name of her current cd is "Never Coming Home" from the Meia record label.For all her latest news and much more please visit her website at www.bettypadgett.com Great Performance!

The next performer on the night was my homeboy,the Bagg It Up Man himself,Nathaniel Kimble.He opened up his performance with "Shake Your Groove Thang" and the ladies down front understood loud and clear as they begin to get their groove on.He kept the dance party going with "You Make Me Happy".He slowed this southern soul party down with "I'm Gonna Wait" and he begin to converse with the women down by the stage area."Lets Have Some Fun" was his next song and thats exactly what he was having as the female fans were are grabbing at his body parts and for you grown folks his private parts(You all get the picture).His next song was a rendition of Ronnie Lovejoy/Tyrone Davis "Sure Wasn't Me" and he suprised me with his vocal range on this one.You know the people in the Mississippi Delta love their beloved TD and Nate did him justice on this one.His next song is a single from his new cd and its also my personal favorite,"You Are The One" and he gave a hellified performance on this jam.I've never given him much praise on his vocals but they came across masterfully on this song.This is definetly a hit for him.He even passed out red stem roses to the women flocked down by the stage area.He picked the tempo back up on his next three selections,"Please Don't Go","Let Me Live My Life" and "Back In The Streets".He closed his performance with the song that made him popular on the blues and southern soul scene, "Can U Bagg It Up?" got everyone up on their feet and dancing and O.B. Buchana left the Dawg Pound briefly to join him on stage for the finale of this song.I've watched Nathaniel Kimble's maturation as an artist I don't won't to say that his shows have never been good or I haven'tbeen impressed but this performance tonight was the best that I've seen from him.The band was tight tonight and his vocals and showmanship came across very well.With more performances like these he will surely begin to be in demand even more.His new cd is titled "I'm Back" and I believe this is his best material to date.For all of you familar with www.myspace.com you can find out all the latest news and much more on Nathaniel Kimble.Damn good performance!

Next on the show was the return of "The Sensational One",Steve Perry.He made his Mississippi Delta debut a few months ago and he left the people in the delta starving for more.I can tell you now they were all ready and excited for his return.He hit the stage and received a huge ovation from the crowd especially from the females.He opened his performance with "Meat On Her Bone" and several of the thick women in the house were feeling him on this jam as they made their way down front to the stage.This song appears to be the one to get folks up and dancing.His next song "You're A Freak" is the comeback or answer song to Shirley Brown's "I Got To Sleep With One Eye Open" but the women in attendance must interpet it another way as they all were reaching for Steve's private parts.He now had these women really doing some grown folk dancing now.His next song was "Let Me Go" and I was looking foward to hearing this one again.I remember this slow jam from his last performance.This is a nice silky ballad the really allows Steve to display his softer harmony and just like Nathaniel Kimble before him he begin to pass out roses to the now packed down stage area.Damn I love that cut.He picked the tempo back up with "Donkey Donk" and he really was playing up to the females now.I don't mind some women up and dropping it like its hot but this one woman had so much a** if you told her to haul it,she would need ten trips but it did have me and O.B. cracking up.His next song was "Come Back Love" and he closed his show with a bang."You Can't Raise Her" which is now the southern soul national anthem for females,got him one of the biggest ovations of the night.Every woman in the house young,old,black and white were on their feet as "The Sensational One " brought down the house.I thought that was the end of his performance but he wanted to let the women in a attendance know that "It's Okay" which is a single from his new cd.This is a bona fide hit.He has a way with the women for real and this will allow him to continue to stay popular with the ladies.I've only seen him perform twice but he has quickly become one of my favorite artists.I can tell by his return this time that he was more than ready for the people in this area and they in return embraced his performance.I saw a confident performer on stage and I only expect to see and hear bigger things from "The Sensational One".His new cd titled "It's Ok" on Bluesland records is availiable now.For more Steve Perry news and much more please visit his website at www.steveperrysoul.com Great Performance!

The last performer on the night was "The Bad Boy Of Southern Soul",T.K. Soul.I've always wonder why people don't let this man close shows?It was late and usually people begin to walk out on the last performer,not on this night.The house was packed and now the entire down stage area was standing room only.No disrespect to all the other artists in this industry but I can only think of three people who can make an entire audience stay for the last performance of the night and lets just say T.K. Soul is one of them.He hit the stage and the thunder came with him.He opened his performance with "You Ring My Bell" I wanted to get some closeup shots of him but the crowd was just too much downstage so I slipped to the back to watch the rest of his performance.He continued to keep the house packed as he performed "Short Skirts,Tight Jeans","My Kind Of Girl" which also got a huge ovation and "If You Don't Want me"."Where Jody Stay" still gets a big ovation when he simulates a knock on the door and he and the baddest band in the land,SOUL 4 REAL continues to turn heads with their tight dance routine on "Meet Me At The Spot Tonight".It was late and fans this man still had a packed house.I've seen his shows many times and I thought that there was no way he can make it any better.Wrong again."All The Man You Need" stole the show.He placed five chairs on stage and five women from the audience
were selected to sit on stage and good people the grown folks show begin.One by one they all received their one on one session with "The Bad Boy Of Southern Soul" and the crowd erupted.1:30 am and these country folks were having the time of their lives.All the women selected were like lil kid at Christmas time and T.K. Soul was Santa Claus.He closed his performance with "Party Like Back In The Day","It Ain't Cheating Til You Get Caught" and "Cheatin And Lying".Once again T.K. Soul was the man.Without a doubt he remains the TOP SHOWMAN IN THE INDUSTRY.To all you promoters out there personally I don't know exactly what determines the last performance of the night but if you won't your crowd to stay packed until the end you better allow T.K. Soul to close your show.To purchase T.K. Soul cds,news and much more visit his website at www.mrtksoul.com This performance was Da Bomb.

In closing I just want to once again thank Rico Owens for another outstanding production.Your love and passion for this genre of music is truly second to none.Thanks for allowing me to be an integral part of your shows because this allows me to bring the shows to so many fans who can't be there physically but are definetly there after reading my reviews.Fans lets continue to show our support for the artists,Rico and all the other promoters who allow us to assemble and witness such a wonderful gathering of talented performers and I really mean this.I would like to give a shout out to Mississippi Slim,Betty Padgett,Nathaniel Kimble,Steve Perry and T.K. Soul who allowed me the time to converse and take all these wonderful photos for the fans.To my in-laws,The Kitty Kitty Club and The Arkansas Divas it was good to see you all assembled.A special shout out to my honorary Dawg Pound members Jerry"Boogie"Mason and O.B. Buchana and to my fellow Dawg Pound members G-Money and Chill Will(Boy you were clean as a $50,000 bubble bath) this was one of our best shows.I'll see you all down by the stage.Like always I had a great time at this show and I wanted to share it with you the greatest fans in the world.Take care and MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALWAYS.

Big K9

www.bigk9.net

Check Out The Pictures

THE ULTIMATE BLUES SHOW SECOND EDITION"

Hello blues and southern soul fans,with the holiday season fast approaching,my blues and southern soul ride continues to get better and better.I've had the opportunity to see more shows and meet more artists in 2006.Hustle Entertainment has been very instumental on this blues and southern soul ride.I recently attended "THE ULTIMATE BLUES SHOW SECOND EDITON" in Greenville,Mississippi and fans this was truly the ULTIMATE SHOW.My good friend Rico Owens,CEO of HUSTLE ENTERTAINMENT who has quickly established himself as one of the biggest and hottest promoters in the industry,provided the wonderful people in the Mississippi Delta with a SPECTACULAR BLUES AND SOUTHERN SOUL SHOW.The Washington County Civic Center played host to this star-studded event.The lineup for this awesome show included Steve Perry,Jeff Floyd,Billy Soul Bonds,T.K. Soul and Shirley Brown.Rico and his staff out did themselves with the setup,the place had a festive astmosphere from start to finish.It was a BYOB affair and the people in attendance had plenty of food and drinks on hand.

I had plenty of my DAWG POUND members,friends and co-workers(KITTY,KITTY CLUB) on hand.I was joined by fellow DAWG POUND members Edward"EZ-E" Hooker,Clide"Big Dawg"Belton,Will"Chill Will"Lindsey,new DAWG POUND members Earl"Big E"Gray and Tony"Lil T"Brown.Also on hand were the ARKANSAS DIVAS,Mattie Perkins(who was also celebrating her birthday) and Debra Barnes who made the trip from Arkansas to kick it with the K9 Posse. It wouldn't be fair to try and name all of my co-workers(KITTY,KITTY CLUB) in attendance and then forget to name someone so I'll just say that there was over thirty(30) of them on hand with Denise"Bluz Queen"Grant at the fore-front and they all made some noise on this night.We had tables reserved on the floor,which were the best seats in the house(thank you Rico).Before the show I was able to chat backstage with WGNL radio personality,Cyreio Hughes and MISS EQUAL OPPORTUNITY,Pat Brown.It is always good to see and talk to Pat Brown who is one of my favorite female artist.When I returned to my table the DAWG POUND were barking and making plenty of noise.The sounds of J. Blackfoot,Tyrone Davis and other artists had the now packed house ready for showtime.My gin and juice chased with Bud Light was starting to kick in big time.With the DAWG POUND,the ARKANSAS DIVAS and the KITTY,KITTY CLUB on hand sit back good people and let me take you on this blues and southern soul ride.

Ricky "Sho-Lo"Johnson was the mc for tonight's show.Popular local artists,Mississippi Slim and John Horton got the party started.They belted out plenty of B.B. King and Bobby Blue Bland hits that set the tone for the rest of the show.Most memorable was Mississippi Slim's rendition of Mckinely Mitchell's "End Of The Rainbow" which got a big ovation from the crowd.

The next performer was the soulful Steve Perry.We have talked on several occasions but this was my first opportunity to meet and see him perform live.I'm a big Steve Perry fan so I couldn't wait to see this performance and I wasn't alone because the place erupted as Steve Perry walked out on stage.I was so happy to see him receive such a big ovation from the crowd especially the females and my man wouldn't disappoint them with his performance.He opened up his performance with "Meat On Her Bones" which got the people in the back of us,up and dancing led by my dawg pound member Clide"Big Dawg"Belton(he would lead the dance party for the rest of the night).His next song was "You're A Freak" and the ladies all surrounded Big Dawg and did their best freak dance and my man who by now was the life of this southern soul party held his own with all of them.He slowed the party down with "Let Me Go" which is a nice ballad that really allowed Steve to showcase his terrifc vocals.He got the dance party started again with the booty shakin "Donkey Donk" and once again the ladies were holding nothing back.There was a whole lot of shakin going on if you know what I mean.I love the way the grown folks do the damn thang.His next two songs were "Come Back Love" and "Too Late".He closed his performance with my personal favorite,"U Can't Raise Her" and the ladies went crazy.This song has become the ladies theme song and has made Steve very popular with female fans nationwide.At an earlier show that I covered I dubbed Donnie Ray's performance as southern soul's best kept secret well Steve Perry is in the same class.Blessed with a strong stage presence and with much charisma Steve looks like a seasoned veteran.The ladies already showed me that he will always be one of their favorite artist.I'm glad that Rico Owens was able to bring Steve to the Mississippi Delta and the fans in attendance felt the same way.For you fans who haven't seen this talented brother perform please do so when he is in an area near you and to all the promoters who want a great performer at your next show look no further than Steve Perry.After his energetic performance I dubbed him "The Sensational One".DAMN GOOD PERFORMANCE!

The next performer on the night was my man Jeff Floyd.In past reviews I've used one word to describe his performance and this night wouldn't be any different.POWERFUL!I can't think of another artist who displays as much energy with his vocals than Jeff Floyd.He opened up his performance with a rendition of Frankie Beverly and Maze's cut "Before I Let Go" and it must have been plenty of old school in attendance because he got a big ovation from the crowd.He followed that with Teddy Pendergrass's song "I Don't Love You Anymore" which received an even bigger ovation.By now he had the crowd up and making plenty of noise.His next song was "Somebody Gonna Loose A Good Woman Tonight" which happened to be EZ-E's personal favorite.Its amazing how Jeff can carry this song so masterfully without his friend and mentor,William Bell.He turned down his powerful voice on this cut and displayed a softer mellow sound to the approval of everyone in attendance.He continued his softer side with "Try A Little Tenderness" which is a nice soulful ballad.He got the dance party going again(led by Big Dawg) with "You Had It All" and "I Got My Woman Upset".By now Big Dawg had become the dance partner for all the females that were seated behind us.He was starting to steal some of the show.I tried to get my newest members,Lil T and Big E up and partying but this was their first show and they were kind of laid back but they were still enjoying the show.He closed his performance with my personal favorite,"I've Found Love(On A Lonely Highway)" and he didn't hold anything back on this song.His powerful voice sounded like thunder as it echoed through the building.I continue to stand by my opinion when I say that Jeff Floyd has the most powerful voice in the industry.It was good to see Jeff perform again.I was able to talk with him after his performance and we can be looking for a new cd in the very near future.POWERFUL PERFORMANCE!

The next performer of the night was the newly resurgent Billy Soul Bonds.I had the opportunity to see him perform a couple of months ago and I was glad to be getting the opportunity to see him perform again.For this performance I joined the ARKANSAS DIVAS,Mattie and Debra at their table.As Billy Soul Bonds came to the stage he recieved a thunderous ovation from the crowd.Greenville was definetly Mr.Scat Cat territory.He opened up his performance with "Give Them Their Flowers",he begins to ad-lib with the crowd.The thing I liked the most about this song is that he talks about the passing of some of our beloved artists but reminds us to support our surviving artists.His next song,"Moving On Again" kept the people in attendance into his show.Toward the end of the song he did renditions of Tyrone Davis,Marvin Sease and Wilson Meadows songs and the crowd loved it.His next song was a wonderful rendition of Jerry Butler & The Impressions classic hit,"For Your Precious Love" and he did Jerry Butler justice on this one."I Found Her In Time" and "Leaving A Good Woman" allowed him to display his versatile vocal range.His next song,"Baby I've Been Missing You" is also my personal favorite.This song has dominated my playlist the last couple of months and it sounded so sweet live on this night.He closed his performance with the song that has put him back on the map.Just like Theodis Ealey with "Stand Up In It",Marvin Sease with "Candylicker" and Clarence Carter with "Stroking", "Scat,Cat Here Kitty Kitty" will now be his signature song.The place erupted and everyone was up and dancing,I was able to dance with the birthday Diva(Mattie Perkins) as Billy had fun with the ladies.Its so good to see an old school artist back in the mix with the young guns of southern soul.GREAT PERFORMANCE!

It was very late but the place was still packed to see the next performer on the night.My man T.K. Soul hit the stage and the ladies all rushed down front to the stage area to get a closer look at "The Bad Boy Of Southern Soul".As he walked out he paid a brief tribute to the late Gerald Levert as he sampled a line of one of G-Bear's(Gerald Levert) classic hits.He opened his performance with "My Kind Of Girl" and the women down front were all screaming that they were the right kind.He performed his newest single,"Party Like Back In The Day" which was well received by the crowd."Where Jody Stay" was his next song and when T.K. began to simulate a knock on the door the crowd erupted.I've seen him do this before and the crowd still enjoys it.Like a magnet all eyes were drawn to him.The young man has much charisma and his showmanship is among the best in the game.His next three songs were,"Meet Me At The Spot Tonight"(huge ovation as he and his band displayed their dance routine),"Ring My Bell" and another one of his new singles,"It Ain't Cheating Til You Get Caught".He closed his performance with "Cheatin And Lying".T.K. Soul is the top showman in the industry and he had three of his biggest fans on hand tonight.Three women,Eleasah Granberry,Gloria White and Mattie Perkins and I'm sure that there are thousands of others with the same claim that they are his #1 fan.This was another electricfying performance by my man T.K. Soul.

It was really late by now but to my suprise there was still a good size crowd in attendance even though people were beginning to leave.The last performer of the night was Shirley Brown.It has been awhile since I last seen her perform so I couldn't wait to see her performance.She opened her performance with "Respect" and she must have felt like she wasn't getting any because she made the comment,"yeah,I see you all walking out of my show".That was funny as hell to me.Her next song was "Too Much Candy" and the remaining people in attendance gave her a nice applause."Joy And Pain" was her next song and it's also one of my favorite Shirley Brown songs.It was helluva late by now but Shirley being the ULTIMATE DIVA continued her performance with "Poon Tang Man" and "I've Got To Sleep With One Eye Open".She closed her performance with her classic hit "Woman To Woman".I've been a fan of her music for awhile.Her motion on stage was limited and it appeared that she moved very gently at times.I don't know if she had any type of physical discomforts but her voice was magnificent.Even though many of the people in attendance had left she gave an awesome performance.

First of all I want to thank my man,Rico Owens,for putting together THE ULTIMATE BLUES SHOW.Your love,passion and commitment for this genre of music is appreciated by the beloved artists and fans.I wish you well as you continue to put together the shows that so many have come to love and enjoy.Fans lets continue to show our support for the artists,Rico and all the other promoters who allow us to assemble and witness such a wonderful gathering of talented performers.I would like to give a shout out to Pat Brown,Steve Perry,Jeff Floyd,Billy Soul Bonds and T.K. Soul who all took the time to meet,greet and spend time with myself,the DAWG POUND and the KITTY,KITTY CLUB.I also want to give a shout out to my man Cyreio Hughes and a special shout out to THE ARKANSAS DIVAS whom I really enjoyed partying with.To my DAWG POUND members,Lil T,Big E,Chill Will,EZ-E and Big Dawg I had a blast.Like always I had a great time at this show and I wanted to share it with you the greatest fans in the world.Take care and MAY GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU.

Big K9
www.bigk9.net

"THE DIVAS OF SOUTHERN SOUL"

Hello Blues and Southern Soul fans.After a day of giving much thanks and praise and after working hard for the man all day long I had the opportunity to unwind with three of the most beautiful women in the world.It was ladies night in Memphis,Tennessee and the Whitehaven Celebration Complex played host to three of the biggest and hottest southern soul divas today.Karen Wolfe,Sheba Potts-Wright and Denise Lasalle made up this angelic lineup that brought plenty of sassy,sultry and grown folks music to this southern soul party.

I arrived at the show early because this was my first visit to this wonderful facility.Upon arrival I was met by some familar faces.First there was WDIA radio personality,Steve Ladd and I hadn't seen him in a couple of months.We stopped at the bar to chat when we were greeted by Ray Ray(Denise Lasalle's son) and Mrs.Anna Coday(wife of recording artist Bill Coday).She had with her fresh off the press from B&J Records a Christmas cd with two songs from B&J recording artist Bill Coday and Karen Wolfe.The first song is titled "My Christmas Is You" by Bill Coday and the second song is "Mr.Claus Is Cheating" by Karen Wolfe.The dj played the songs and folks I can tell you now that these are a must buy.Please look for this cd to be distributed just in time for Christmas.

Steve and I found us a good spot to watch tonight's show.As we waited for the show to start we were greeted by "The Gentle Giant Of Southern Soul",Ecko recording artist,O.B. Buchana.I was suprised to see him at tonight's show but I also was very glad to see him.It had been a few months since we last saw each other.He chatted with Steve and me for a few minutes and returned back to his table.It wasn't a very big crowd on hand,I was informed that there was another show up the road but none the less the people in attendance were all ready to get this southern soul party started.So with my man Steve chilling with the Corona and me sipping my gin and juice,sit back good people and let me take you on this blues and southern soul ride.

The first Diva to perform on the night was B&J recording artist Karen Wolfe.She recieved a nice ovation as she came on stage.I've seen her perform a couple of times before and each time she looked more and more comfortable on stage and tonight she was very comfortable.Just like her mentor and friend Denise Lasalle this sassy diva immediately began to ad-lib with the crowd and this got the party started.She has learned from the best,get the crowd involved early and you will have them for the entire performance.She opened her performance with Betty Wright's "Tonight Is The Night" and the crowd gave her a big applause.The ladies were feeling this song as Steve and I just sat back and soaked it in.She had a nice female fan base down by the stage and they were cheering her on big time.Her next song was "Is This The Way" and her amazing vocals were truly being showcased.She has an incredible sultry delivery that few can match in this industry.You can really see the influence that Denise Lasalle has had on her.While Denise Lasalle is her mentor Betty Wright must have been a big influence because her next song was Betty Wright's "Clean Up Woman".Her next song,"Unloveable Habits" is also my personal favorite.I was joined on the dance floor by a young lady in attendance.She got a big applause when she was letting the women know that they might not go for some of their men's bulls**t but some other woman might be willing to accept it.She closed her performance with her biggest hit to date,"Back Door Love Affair" brought everyone to their feet and kept me on the dance floor.In an earlier review I said that Karen Wolfe is cut from the same cloth as Denise Lasalle and this still holds true.SEXY,SULTRY and SOULFUL all describe this terrific singer.Her show was more polished this time around so I could tell that she has worked hard on perfecting her performance.She set the perfect tone for this southern soul party.TERRIFIC PERFORMANCE!

The next Diva on the night is slowly becoming one of my favorites.Ecko recording artist,Sheba Potts-Wright hit the stage with the "Slow Roll It Dancers" and every guy in the place came to their feet.This is the time of the year to be thankful and GOD knows I'm thankful to be in the presence of these SEXY young ladies.LAWD HAVE MERCY!Steve and I moved closer to the stage for this performance.She is also a Denise Lasalle protege` and you could tell with her raw and explicit lyrics which the crowd loved.Just like Karen she was able to get the crowd involved in her show.She literally talks to each individual in attendance and this has made her a fan favorite at a lot of her shows.I guess this was Betty Wright's night because she opened her performance with "Clean Up Woman" and no disrespect to Karen Wolfe's version but the fellas had more eye candy to look at with Sheba's version.Her next song,"I Can Bagg It Up" which is the answer to Nathaniel Kimble's "Can U Bagg It Up" allowed the slow roll it dancers to do their thing and fellas you are going to have to take my word on this one,they were doing their thing tonight.I love Beyonce` but on this night I rather be in the presence of Sheba Potts-Wright and her dancers,enough said about that.The highlight from this song was when this rather large guy(bigger than me) joined her on stage drunk as hell and almost pulled her off the stage with his hilarious dance moves.The crowd got a big laugh out of that. "I Need A Cowboy To Ride My Pony" kept the guys drawn to the stage like a magnet.Can you all tell that I was enjoying this performance?The Soul Children's "I'll Be The Other Woman" was her next song and once again I was pulled to the dance floor.I guess I've been so caught up with Sheba's dance routines that I never realized that she has a terrific voice.She gave a very sensual rendition of this song and I was simply blown away.She continued with several of her other big hits including "Lipstick On His Pants","Don't Get Yours Before I Get Mine","Big Hand Man", and the crowd pleasing "I Can Hear Your Macaroni".I guess we can call Sheba the queen of the answer song because she closed her performance with "Slow Roll It" which is the answer song to the Love Doctor's "Slow Roll It".Once again her and the slow roll it dancers closed the show with more eye popping,hip twisting,rump shaking and dropping it like its hot dance moves that went over well with me and the rest of the fellas.This diva is a star on the rise.I have to give her more props for her vocals.She is a terrific singer with a sexy show that will continue to allow her to be a fan favorite especially with the fellas.I was able to spend some time with her after the show and let me tell you people she is a wonderful person.I can't wait to see her perform again.SIZZLING PERFORMANCE!

After Sheba Potts-Wright performance the mc brought O.B. Buchana to the stage and he performed an acapella version of "Like My Woman" from his new cd and it was sing along with O.B. Buchana.The crowd gave him a nice ovation.Oh how I wish that he was performing on this night.

The last Diva to perform on the night was my Godmother,Denise Lasalle.I saw her before the show and she had the biggest grin on her face when she saw me coming.I love having the opportunity to be in her presence.She received the biggest ovation of the night when she was led on stage by her son Ray.Just like her protege's before her,it was time for the Queen to get very raw and explicit with her grown folks language.Why do the fans love it when this woman talk sh*t?There is not another artist,male or female in the industry that can talk more sh*t than Denise Lasalle.She opened her performance with"Lady In The Streets" and received another huge ovation.Her next song was "Down Home Blues" and everyone got on their feet and began to cut a rug.Denise Lasalle was rocking the house tonight.I was feeling good and tipsy by now.Her next song,"Trapped By A Thing Called Love' which is also my personal favorite landed me on the dance floor again.I've heard this song a million times and it sounds just as good as ever.I was having a damn good time you all.Her next song,"Drop That Zero" had the ladies making some serious noise.With her next song she paid tribute to her life long friend,B.B. King.He is known for his song the "The Thrill Is Gone" well Denise along with her guitar player,Marvin Hill have come up with a smash hit with "The Thrill Is On" and Marvin's masterful skill on the guitar is showcased."Snap,Crackle And Pop" was the best part of her performance as she had the crowd cracking up with her raw and exlpicit lyrics.Her reference to Clarence Carter(Strokin'),Love Doctor(Slow Roll It),Theodis Ealey(Stand Up In It) and Marvin Sease(Candy Licker) went over very well.She closed her performance with "My Toot Toot" and she was joined on stage by her son Ray as he received a nice ovation from the women on hand as he begin to display his freaky side.It is always a pleasure for me to see a Denise Lasalle performance and I hope and pray that I will be able to see her for many more years to come.

I would like to thank Karen Wolfe,Sheba Potts-Wright and Denise Lasalle for taking the time to allow me to be in their presence.You all are three of the most gifted women in the world and I want to wish you all much sucess as you continue to bless us through your music.To my man Jai(photographer)the photos are awesome.And finally a quick shout out to "The Gentle Giant Of Southern Soul",O.B. Buchana and WDIA radio personality,Steve Ladd,it was good to hang out and drink it up with you guys.We are going to have to do this again for sure.I had a great time last night and like always I wanted to share it with you,the greatest fans in the world.I hope you all enjoyed this review.Take care and MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALL.

Big K9
www.bigk9.net

"10TH ANNUAL COTTON CAPITAL BLUES FESTIVAL"

Hello blues and southern soul fans.My 2006 ride continued in the heart of the Mississippi Delta.I enjoy shows in any state and just about any venue but there is no better place for me to really enjoy my blues and southern soul than in the Mississippi Delta.Greenwood,Mississippi hosted its "10th ANNUAL COTTON CAPITAL BLUES FESTIVAL".The lineup for this spectacular event included Lebrado,Sheba Potts-Wright,Omar Cunningham,T.K. Soul,Latimore,Marvin Sease and Clarence Carter.It was a very large crowd on hand and it was a BYOB setting.I was joined on this night by fellow Dawg Pound member T-Bone and honorary Dawg Pound member,the CEO of Hustle Entertainment,Rico Owens.I guess the biggest suprise for me was when I spotted my mentor and Godfather,Jerry"Boogie"Mason from The Boogie Report posted and ready for work.WGNL radio personality,Cyreio Hughes was the mc for tonights show and my man granted me a backstage pass to cover this awesome event.There were vendors on hand that had the air filled with the smell of good barbque.So with the baby-back ribs tasting finger licking good and the gin and juice chased with cold bud light kicking in sit back good people and allow me to take you on this blues and southern soul ride.

The first performer of the night was IFGAM(Theodis Ealey label) recording artist,Lebrado.He is new on the southern soul/blues scene but certainly not new to the music scene.He is the younger brother of the R&B duo sensations,K-Ci and JoJo(Jodeci).The good people in Greenwood gave him a huge ovation as he was introduced,especially the ladies who all flocked down by the stage.He began his performance like a seasoned veteran,he quickly began to ad-lib with the young ladies in attendance and they loved every minute of it.His first song was "Coffee" and this one was definetly for the ladies.He makes no secrets about the kind of woman he likes,hot,black and strong.He continued his love affair with the women in attendance with his next song "First Lady".On his next song I was blown away by his vocal range.Greenwood is Ronnie Lovejoy and Tyrone Davis territory and "Sure Wasn't Me" had everybody standing on their feet.He delivered one of the best renditions of this song that I had ever heard.He got everyone up and steppin with "Dancin" which is a nice dance(steppin) groove.I'm suprised that I haven't heard this one in one of the local juke joints.He showcased his silky ,soulful voice on the ballad "Try Me".I expect this to be a favorite for all the quiet storm lovers.He closed his performance with his biggest hit to date and my personal favorite,"I'm Missin' You Babe".It was not a person in attendance sitting down on this cut.He had the place up and jumping which was the perfect start for this show.Lebrado is one of the top newcomers on the southern soul/blues scene.He is a terrific singer and with a good stage presence.He is continuing to expand the music legacy started by his brothers.With a little more polish this star is going to shine very brightly.Good performance.

The next performer on the night was Greenwood native,Sheba Potts Wright.She is the daughter of Ecko recording artist,Dr. Feel Good Potts.After the ladies made some noise for Lebrado it was time for all the fellas to make some noise in Greenwood and boy did WE ever.Sheba along with her "Slow Roll It Dancers" came on stage and LAWD HAVE MERCY!Can I say it one more time?LAWD HAVE MERCY!Only one word is needed for this young artist and her dancers,S-E-X-Y!I missed an earlier performance by her but I did have the opportunity to meet her but this was technically my first opportunity to see her perform.Just like her mentor and friend,Denise Lasalle this young lady was very raw with her grown folks language.Only at a blues and southern soul show does explicit lyrics get a huge ovation from the crowd.She opened her performance with Betty Wright's "Clean Up Woman" and she received a big ovation.Her next couple of songs she along with her dancers were able to provide the crowd with some nice eye candy dance moves."I Can Bagg It Up" and "I Need A Cowboy To Ride My Pony" went over well with the fellas.She slowed it down with a rendition of the Soul Children's "I'll Be The Other Woman".This was my favorite part of her performance.There was a young lady in the crowd crying and Sheba saw her and asked security to bring her up on stage.When the fan arrived on stage it was a very heart warming moment,the two of them embraced and for a moment I think Sheba even became teary eyed.She continued with several of her other big hits including "Lipstick On His Pants","Don't Get Yours Before I Get Mine","Big Hand Man",Private Fishing Hole" and the crowd pleasing "I Can Hear Your Macaroni".She closed her performance with more fan participation.On "Slow Roll It" she was joined by several female fans on stage.The fans along with Sheba and her dancers began to shake it and drop it like it was hot,it was definetly a whole lot of shaking going on.Sexy,sultry and soulful best describes this talented recording artist.With a nice voice but even better dance moves this Diva continues to turn heads on the southern soul scene.I know the rest of the fellas in attendance along with the ladies have to agree that this was a nice performance.

The next performer was my good friend,Omar Cunningham.I always look forward to his performances.Once again the ladies all race to the stage to get a closer look at Omar.He received a huge ovation from the crowd.He opened his performance with "Before I Let You Go" and the women down front were all feeling this one."Baby Don't Leave Me" continued to make the women melt.He got the people dancing with "Hell At The House"."What Makes A Man" was very popular with the women and it also showcased his new background singers.His next song was my personal favorite,"Sweet,Sweet" sounded just like its namesake.I've always boasted that in my opinion Omar has THE BEST LIVE VOCALS in the industry and it continues to remain true.This song should be played on all the mainstream radio stations and his face should be seen on BET,MTV and VH1."Married Woman,Married Man" got the people back up and dancing.His soulful voice filled the air with his rendition of Sam Cooke's "A Change Is Gonna Come".He closed his performance with the song that put him on the map."Check To Check" had everyone on their feet and dancing once again.Omar Cunningham's body of work speaks for itself.He is one of the top performers in the industry and did I mention that he has THE BEST LIVE VOCALS IN THE INDUSTRY.Damn good show.

The next performer was my man T.K. Soul and he received the loudest ovation of the night.It was a large number of females around the stage area now.He opened his performance with "My Kind Of Girl" and the women down front were pleading that they were the right kind for him.He performed his newest single "Party Like Back In The Day" and fans let me tell you now he has another big hit on his hands.He kept the crowd at his command with "Ring My Bell","If You Don't Want Me","Where Jody Stay" and "Meet Me At The Spot" which always get a big applause when he and the baddest band in the land(Soul 4 Real)go into their dance routine.He performed another one of his new singles called "It Ain't Cheating Til You Get Caught".He closed his performance with "Cheatin And Lying" and my personal favorite "My Life".I've seen his shows many times and they continue to be very entertaining.T.K. SOUL in my opinion is THE TOP SHOWMAN IN THE INDUSTRY.Helluva show.

It was now time for the old school to perform.It was getting late and it appears that the promoters were starting to speed things up.Latimore came on next and Greenwood gave him a thunderous ovation.To see Latimore walk out on stage is a stimulating experience.He opened his performance with "Take Me To The Mountaintop" and Greenwood,Mississippi was now a blues paradise.Both young and old were all on their feet and enjoying The Living Legend.It was good to see that so many fans still enjoy the sounds of Latimore."Sunshine Lady" had all the women by the stage screaming.He got the crowd involved when he performed "I'm An Old Dog".He closed his performance with "Bad Risk" and my personal favorite "Lets Straighten It Out".It was good to see him perform again and I hope and pray that I will have many more opportunities to see him.

The candy licker,Marvin Sease was up next and it was really getting late.People were starting to leave but it was still plenty of blues and southern soul lovers left to get their bluzing on.There was still a large fan base down by the stage and Marvin Sease gave them a good show.He opened his performance with "Clean Up,What I Messed Up".His next song,"Mrs. Right" was a crowd pleaser especially from the women.He had the remaining faithful up and juking with "Sit Down On It".He performed several of his other classic hits including "Mr.Jody","Please Take Me", and "Do It Tonight".He closed his performance with his signature song and my man T-Bone's personal favorite"Candy Licker".Although his show was abbreviated it was still a good performance.

It was very late and by now the place was all but empty but there were still a handful of loyal fans who stayed until the end.I went down to the stage and got a good close view of the last performer of the night.Clarence Carter came on stage and the remaining fans all made some noise for this blues and southern soul icon.He poured a lot of energy into all of his songs.He performed all his classic hits including "Too Weak To Fight","Take It All Off","It's A Man Out There" and "Love Me With A Feeling".He performed my father's personal favorite"Patches" and its now one of my personal favorites.He closed his performance with "Slip Away" and his signature song "Strokin".Its ashame that so many people left and didn't get to see this icon perform.With so many of our beloved artists going home I make sure that I get a chance to see a performance whenever I get the opportunity.It was great to see Clarence Carter perform again.

While I was backstage I met Malaco recording artist Larome Powers whose songs include"Shake & Shimmy,"Get Down On It" and "I Feel Like Cheating".We chatted briefly and he wanted to let fans know that he will be out and performing real soon.I want to give a shout out to WGNL radio personality,Cyerio Hughes and my Godfather Jerry"Boogie"Mason.Rico and T-Bone I had a blast and I can't wait to go bluzing with you all again.I had a great time last night and like always I just wanted to share it with you the greatest fans in the world.Take care and MAY GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU.

Big K9

www.bigk9.net

MORGAN FREEMAN AND GROUND ZERO WELCOMES DENISE LASLLE AND FRIENDS"

Hello Blues and Southern Soul fans.I couldn't wait to sit down and begin this review.Just when I thought this blues and southern soul ride couldn't get any better,academy award winning actor Morgan Freeman who along with business partner Bill Luckett provided the good people in the Mississippi Delta with a good old fashion DOWN HOME BLUES REVUE.Ground Zero(Owned by Freeman and Luckett)was the place and Clarksdale was the host city.The performers for this awesome show were B&J recording artists Karen Wolfe and Bill Coday and my Godmother and favorite female performer,The Queen of the Blues,Denise Lasalle.Ground Zero has always been one of my favorite juke joints and to be in the presence of these talented artists made this an exciting night.I was joined on this night by fellow Dawg Pound member Terry Lomax a.k.a. T-Bone.It was a diversified crowd on hand and this is always a great sight for me.I love the fact that this genre of music can bring people from different ethnic backgrounds together and enjoy themselves the way all men and women both young and old are suppose to be able to do.

We arrived early because I wanted to have a good seat for tonight's show.I walked through the front door and there sat a familar face,one I hadn't seen in months or talked to for that matter but I was very happy to see this familiar face.Mrs. Anna Coday(CEO of B&J records and wife of Bill Coday)was holding down the door for tonight's show.We hugged each other and we had a brief chat,I told her that I was trying to get a good seat for the show and I would talk to her after the show.As we made our way down front,right by the stage(damn we got lucky)I saw two more familiar faces.My good friends,WDIA radio personality Steve Ladd and Denise Lasalle's son Ray were both standing by the stage and I greeted both of them with open arms.As we were talking B&J recording artist Bill Coday came over to say hello.I had met him once at Club Ebony in Indianola,Mississippi and to my suprise he remembered me very well.I am very humbled that these hard working recording artists actually appreciate me and the fruits of my labor.Thats why I love sharing these experiences with you the fans.The mc for tonight's show was the host with the most,my man Steve Ladd. It was now showtime so with some old friends on hand and with the gin and juice,chased with bud light kicking in big time,sit back good people and let me take you on this blues and southern soul ride.

The first performer of the night was B&J recording artist Karen Wolfe.I watched her perform for the first time several months ago in Jackson,TN.I knew back then that she was well on her way to becoming a major diva on the southern soul scene.She was introduced to the now packed house and received a nice warm ovation led by T-Bone and myself.She opened her performance with a rendition of Betty Wright's "Tonight Is The Night" and the ladies on hand made some serious noise.They were feeling her on this song and just like her friend and mentor,Denise Lasalle she begin to ad-lib with the audience with some grown folks language.I tell you the ladies really had her back on this cut.Her next song was "Is This The Way" and she was able to display her amazing voice.With this song you can hear the influence that Denise Lasalle has had on her.With a sassy but sultry delivery her voice filled the room.Her next song was from her debut cd titled "Unlovable Habits" and she was letting the women know that they might not go for some of their men's bulls**t but some other woman might be willing to accept it,enough said about that cut.Her next song was "Grown Ass Man" and once again she begin to ad-lib with crowd.Like so many of her peers she realizes to keep an audience you have to allow them to be a part of the show.She had the people in attendance laughing along with this jam especially when she made the point that if her man wanted someone to clean up behind him his a** better get a maid.She closed her performance with her biggest hit to date and my personal favorite "Backdoor Love Affair".As she was performing this song there was an older gentleman on the dance floor cutting a rug by himself.He was soon joined to the delight of everyone in attendance by academy award winning actor Morgan Freeman who made a spectacular grand entrance.The two of them shared the spotlight on the dance floor briefly.The place erupted as the two of then begin to strut around like they had rehearsed this little dance glide.I was up on my feet and was able to capture that brief moment on camera.You had to be there to feel the excitement that this moment brought to everyone in attendance.Thats why I love this blues and southern soul thang.He settled at a table down by the stage and was met by a slew of people who were all trying to get photos of him.I don't think Karen mind Morgan Freeman gracing the dance floor on her final song.Karen Wolfe is cut from the same cloth as Denise Lasalle.SEXY,SULTRY and SOULFUL all describe this terrific singer.Her show was more polished this second time around so I could tell that she has worked hard on perfecting her performance.With the divas of southern soul continuing to make their stride in this industry you can throw Karen Wolfe right at the top with the rest of them.For those of you who haven't heard this diva please go and buy her debut cd titled "First Time Out".It is a can't miss for people who love and enjoy southern soul music.I look to see and hear great things from this talented young lady and yes fellas SHE IS SEXY AS HELL.Terrific performance!

The next performer on the night was B&J recording artist,the one and only Bill Coday.I mentioned before that I met him on one ocassion but this was my first opportunity to see him perform.He and Denise Lasalle share a friendship that has expand some three decades.He was introduced to the crowd and they gave him a huge ovation.He opened his performance with "Love Of Mine" and he was able to get the people up and dancing.Morgan Freeman even joined the crowded dance floor and we were now having a blues party with Bill Coday at his best.He kept the party going with "It's A Blues Thang" and this is a nice foot-stomping and hand-clapping old school blues cut.His next selection"Stormy Monday" got a huge ovation from the crowd.I've heard a lot of artist cover this classic hit and Bill Coday's gut wrenching performance was among the best that I had ever heard.He performed two songs from his latest cd "Jump Start" and "One Side Love Affair" which kept the dance floor jumping.He closed his performance with "Get Your Lie Straight" and this brought back some memories for me.My father and uncles use to love this song.I was disappointed that he didn't perform "Bo Hawg Grind" which is one of my favorite Bill Coday jams.With so many of our beloved blues and southern soul artists who have passed on its so good to see an old school artist like Bill Coday still out here on his paper chase(making some money).Just like Billy "Soul" Bonds a couple of weeks ago I was able to see another great artist from back in the day bring back some of the magic from yesterday.I wish that all you fans would go out and buy Bill Coday's music.His last cd titled "Jump Start" is a great buy and it includes the hit single "Love Gangsta".Bill Coday along with Karen Wolfe is a solid foundation for B&J Records and I know with them being the cornerstone that this label will be a major factor for this genre of music.I wish them well as they continue to make their mark on this industry.

The last performer on the night was the undisputed QUEEN OF THE BLUES,Denise Lasalle.She was led on stage by her son and my good friend Ray.She received the loudest ovation of the night.This being a juke joint she was very explicit tonight.Can't no one in this industry male or female talk more sh*t than Denise Lasalle and tonight would be no different.I've seen her show so many times and I'm not tired of it yet.She opened her performance with"Lady In The Streets" and received another huge ovation.Her next song was "Down Home Blues" and once again Morgan Freeman blessed the dance floor with his presence.I stopped to take a few photos of this larger than life movie star as he cut a rug with the good people in the Mississippi Delta and let me tell you folks he didn't mind me taking these photos at all.This will be a moment that I will surely never ever forget.Denise kept the party going with my personal favorite "Trapped By This Thing Called Love".I was front and center taking photos of her on stage when I was joined on the dance floor by my co-worker,Denise Grant a.k.a Bluz Queen.With this cut playing I'll dance with the anti-christ(thats how much I love this song).She paid tribute to Little Milton as she did a rendition of "The Blues Is Alright" and she allowed the crowd to sing along on this cut.Her next song was "Drop That Zero" and the ladies were feeling this one."Snap,Crackle And Pop" was the best part of her performance as she had the crowd cracking up with her raw and exlpicit lyrics.Her reference to Clarence Carter(Strokin'),Love Doctor(Slow Roll It),Theodis Ealey(Stand Up In It) and Marvin Sease(Candy Licker) went over very well.She closed her performance with "My Toot Toot" and she was joined on stage by her son Ray as he received a nice ovation from the women on hand as he begin to display his freaky side(Got you Ray).It is always a pleasure for me to see a Denise Lasalle performance and I hope and pray that I will be able to see her for many more years to come.

I said that I would start to shorten these concert reviews but you fans have got to bare with me,just like a preacher in the pulpit I've got a message to deliver.I try to make you feel like you were actually at the show.I want to give a blues and southern soul shout out to my man Steve Ladd and Karen Wolfe's older sister "Cookie" (who is also a backup singer for Karen).HAPPY 50TH BIRTHDAY COOKIE!I would also like to give a shout out to my fellow Dawg Pound member T-Bone who told me that he had the time of his life.I had a great time on this night and like always I just wanted to share it with the best fans on the planet.Take care and MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALWAYS.

Big K9
www.bigk9.net

" CLUB FUGEES WELCOMES MISS EQUAL OPPORTUNITY & MR. SCAT CAT "

Hello blues and southern soul fans.Somebody pinch me and tell me that I'm dreaming,on two consecutive weekends I was able to attend a blues show right here in my own backyard.While the rest of the country is allowed a day off for this labor day weekend two of the hardest working artists in the blues and southern soul industry were hard at work for the good people in the Mississippi Delta.Club Fugees was the place and Miss Equal Opportunity,Pat Brown and Mr. Scat Cat,Billy" Soul"Bonds were the special guest.I was joined on this night by the newest member of Da Dawg Pound,Terry Lomax a.k.a. T-Bone,fellow dawg pound member Glenn Tutwiler a.k.a. G-Money and the president and ceo of hustle entertainment Mr. Rico Owens.We positioned ourselves upstairs to view this show.It was a full house on hand but it wasn't as big as last week's grand opening.The local dj had the sounds of Tyrone Davis,Jackie Neal,Big Cynthia,Wilson Meadows,Omar Cunningham and other various artists echoing through the building and several of the line dance songs kept the dance floor full.There was plenty of food and drinks on hand as well.With the gin and juice kicking in and my cold bud light on hand sit back good people and let me take you on this blues and southern soul ride.

The first performer of the night was Miss Equal Opportunity,Pat Brown.I've met her on several ocassions but this was my first opportunity to see her perform.Her band kicked off a nice set that got the crowd going early and this allowed this soulful diva to make her entrance,as soon as she appeared the crowd gave her a big ovation.Just like so many of her female peers(Denise Lasalle & Shirley Brown) she immediately begin to ad-lib with the crowd which is always very popular for an artist to do.This allows the artist to get the crowd involved in the show.Club Fugees is not your typical juke joint but Pat Brown begin to talk grown folks language and the crowd loved it.She opened her performance with "I Can Do Bad By Myself" and the women in attendance had her back on this one.Her next song "If It's Good For You" showcased her sultry soulful vocals."Live In Woman" she was able to once again work the crowd with her raw and explicit lyrics.She closed her performance with my personal favorite "Equal Opportunity" and she received her biggest ovation of the night.Without Willie Clayton on hand her soulful rendition was still a big hit with the people in attendance.Pat Brown is a wonderful singer and entertainer.She was able to work the crowd all night with her terrifc voice and explicit lyrics.Her ability to ad-lib with the crowd will only continue to keep her popular at her upcoming shows.She only did a limited selection of her hits but she got the house rocking for Mr. Scat Cat.Terrific show!

I guess this was one of my most anticipated shows to date.Billy" Soul"Bonds is no stranger to the blues and southern soul scene.As a matter of fact he told me about how his career has expand some three decades.Like so many artists whose body of work goes relatively unknown to many it took a big hit to make his name resurface again.The buzz all week long was Mr. Scat Cat is coming to town.By now T-Bone was having the time of his life and the gin and juice had me feeling damn good as well.As the band begin to play Mr. Scat Cat appeared from the dressing room area and as he made his way to the stage he received a thunderous ovation from the now packed house.This is a BAD MAN you all.Only Billy"Soul"Bonds can hit the stage in a PU**Y PINK SUIT and get the ovation from me and the many other fans in attendance.I can't hate,the man was clean and looking sharp as hell.The damnest thing I've ever seen.He opened his performance with "Give Them Their Flowers" and just like Pat Brown before him he begin to ad-lib with the crowd.He talks about the passing of some of our beloved artists but reminds us to support our surviving artists.His next song "Moving On Again" kept the people in attendance into his show.Toward the end of the song he did renditions of Tyrone Davis,Marvin Sease and Wilson Meadows songs and the crowd loved it."I Found Her In Time" and "Leaving A Good Woman" allowed him to display his versatile vocal range.Next was my favorite part of the show.For the ones who have seen him perform already know but for those of you who haven't he performed Jerry Butler and The Impressions song "For Your Precious Love" and LAWD HAVE MERCY did he do them justice on this one.He left the stage and serenaded the crowd.From table to table he swooned the ladies as his soulful voice filled the room.I didn't think anyone could come close to Jerry Butler on this cut.He made his way back to the stage and got the crowd jumping with his rendition of "Down Home Blues".His next song was "Baby I've Been Missing You" and I hadn't heard it in years,hell I forgot he song it but it sounded oh so good as he gave a soul-stirring performance.He closed his performance with the song that has put him back on the map.Just like Theodis Ealey with "Stand Up In It",Marvin Sease with "Candylicker" and Clarence Carter with "Stroking", "Scat,Cat Here Kitty Kitty" will now be his signature song.The crowd erupted and the dance floor filled as he closed his outstanding performance.Billy "Soul" Bonds is from the old school but he also realize that the young guns sound is moving this genre of music into the future.I was hoping that he perform "Reverened Joe" which was one of his popular songs from the good old days.Still it is good to see him back on the scene again and hopefully fans will get familar with his earlier body of work.Fans please don't miss Pat Brown or Billy"Soul"Bonds if they are ever near you.I promise you that you won't be disappointed.I would like to give a shout out to Billy"Soul" Bonds band members "Romeo" and "Tiger".To my newest dawg pound member T-Bone,G-Money(damn he was working the crowd) and Rico Owens I really enjoyed this show with you guys.As always I had a great time last night and I just wanted to share it with the greatest fans in the world.By the way September 9th is my birthday so if you all want to give me lots of gifts please feel free to do so,but seriously it also marks the one year anniversary for my website.I would like to thank you the fans for following and supporting me this last year and hopefully I can continue to make this website flow for you the fans.E-mail any birthday wishes or one year anniversary comments to bigk92003@yahoo.com or just simply sign my guestbook.Take care and MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALWAYS.

Big K9

"THE 19TH ANNUAL SUNFLOWER RIVER BLUES AND GOSPEL FESTIVAL"

Hello Blues and Southern Soul fans.I live in the heart of the Mississippi Delta and the people here take great pride in declaring that the blues were truly born in the Mississippi Delta.
Clarksdale,Mississippi is a town in the Mississippi Delta that is the birthplace for a number of blues and southern soul artists.Sam Cooke,Ike Turner,O.B. Buchana, and Luther Lackey are all Clarksdale natives.W.C. Handy and Muddy Waters at one time called Clarksdale home.I had the opportunity to attend THE 19TH ANNUAL SUNFLOWER RIVER BLUES AND GOSPEL FESTIVAL in Clarksdale.I've heard about this festival before but this was my first time attending this event.I have to be honest,legendary southern soul recording artist Latimore was the headliner and I've never had the opportunity to see him perform before.So after a long hard day at work I manage to drive up the road to Clarksdale and I'm very glad that I did.I hate that I haven't attended this annual festival before.

I have to tell you about these wonderful people who dedicate their time and energy to provide a three(3) day FREE festival,yes I said free festival for not only the good people in the Mississippi Delta but for people from all over the world.I met people from Italy,Finland, and Switzlerland who all told me that they attend this festival every year.The Sunflower River Blues Association is an all volunteer,501 c 3 organization committed to keeping the festival free and acessible to all.Please visit their website at www.sunflowerfest.org to see how this wonderful group of people bring joy to thousands of people who have a passion for this genre of music.

I arrived at the festival right before Latimore was about to perform.I hate that I didn't get the opportunity to see the local acts that had already performed.It was a diversified crowd of thousands in attendance.It was young and old,black and white and this was a nice sight for these pair of eyes.That were plenty of vendors on hand selling everything from cold beer,bar-b-q,fried fish, and get this alligator meat.Steve Ladd was the MC for tonight's show,he was standing backstage so I went over and introduce myself.I wanted to get some close up photos of Latimore and hopefully get an opportunity to talk to him after his show.With the blink of an eye Steve led me to the dressing room where he introduce me to Latimore's band and road manager.Steve and I chatted briefly and he informed me that he was going to join the broadcast team at WDIA 1070(Memphis,TN) and I congratulated him on that.Latimore stage manager said that I could take some photos and talk to Latimore after the show.So with the bar-b-q grills smoking and the beer ice cold,throw in a melting pot of people from all ethnics from around the world sit back good people and let me take you on this blues and southern soul ride.

I was able to position myself right down front by the stage where it was standing room only.I'm glad at these blues and southern soul shows that the people are really good people because we were all jammed so close together your pocket could get picked and you wouldn't even know it.Steve introduced Latimore and the crowd gave him a thunderous ovation.He recieved one of the longest opening ovations that I've ever witnessed.This was the legend that everyone had come to see.This was my first opportunity to see him and I was caught up like everyone else in attendance.I've seen my photos of him and when he appeared on stage images of Charlton Heston's Moses character came to my mind.With his trademark ghostly white hair he looked like a GOD on stage and we were all his faithful servants.He wasted no time in leading the crowd to the promise land.He opened his performance with "Take Me To The Mountaintop" and again the crowd went wild.His deep,sultry voice echoed through the night air.It was several women screaming and trying to get close to the stage.Myself and some other gentleman allowed them to stand in front of us.This one lady said she had drove from St. Louis to see him and she stood there crying as Latimore closed his eyes and lifted his head towards heaven and continued to deliver this classic hit.His next song was "Sunshine Lady" and this received an even louder ovation from the crowd.I had taken enough photos and the women were taking over down front of the stage so I retreated backstage to catch the rest of his performance.I was able to view the entire crowd now and it was a sea of people as far as the eye could see and Latimore was making all the women melt.His live vocals are amazing.He had the crowd at his command.He began to ad-lib with the crowd and he was able to have them singing,dancing and laughing.He picked up the tempo with "Stormy Monday" and this made the crowd do a lot hand-clapping and foot-stomping.By now Latimore had turned this into a wang dang doodle and the faces in the crowd told the story."I'm An Old Dog" and "Keep The Home Fire Burning" kept the crowd juking.His next song was "Bad Risk" and this is one of my favorite Latimore songs.He closed his performance with "Let's Straighten It Out" and once again he ad-lib with the crowd and they simply loved it.Latimore is truly a living legend.I'm glad that I got this opportunity to see him perform.We took a couple of photos and talked briefly after his performance.He doesn't tour as much as he use to but he is enjoying life in the sunshine state of Florida.We agreed to stay in touch and I told him that I can't wait to see him perform again.

The only regret that I have about this show,is that I wasn't here for the entire show and other obligations won't allow me to attend the next two days but people from the Sunflower River Association I promise that I will be back next year for the entire festival.I want to give a special thanks to Steve Ladd,Yvonne Stanford and Meville Tillis who all made me feel at home backstage.Again please visit there website at www.sunflowerfest.org and learn more about this festival and the wonderful people behind it.As always I had a great time and I just wanted to share it with the greatest fans in the world.Take care and MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALWAYS.

Big K9

"THROWBACK FRIDAY"

Hello blues and southern soul fans.With the dog days of summer upon us this Big Dawg was able to escape to Vicksburg,Mississippi to experience one hell of a show.Before I begin my review a friend of mine asked me,"how can you write a good review everytime"? Well my answer is a simple one.I work long hard hours just like millions of other americans do,I use the blues and southern soul music to be my escape.Wheter I'm playing them on my stereo or listening to them on the internet radio the blues and southern soul music allows me to free my mind from all the stress and worries that come from work.If I plan to attend a show my mindset is to go and have a good time PERIOD.I won't allow myself to be worried or bothered about something while I'm attending a show.Throw in my GIN & Juice and chased with some COLD BUD LIGHT,I'm as happy as a lark before I step inside the venue,thats why I am able to always give good reviews.Last night in Vicksburg was no different.

Too Sweet Productions played host to a blues show dubbed "THROWBACK FRIDAY".The lineup for this show was Donnie Ray,T.K. Soul and Mel Waiters.The good people in Vicksburg sho-nuff know how to party southern soul style.BYOB was in full effect so you know the drinks and food were plentiful.I always describe this enviroment as being a festive one.The Vicksburg Auditorium was the site for this southern soul party and it was standing room only inside.I love to see a full house for these hardworking artists.I arrived early because this was my first time attending a show in Vicksburg.I arrived before the doors opened and to my suprise one of the sponsors recognized me and allowed me to enter and I was really appreciative for that.As I walked inside the smell of fried fish and bar-b-q filled the air.They actually had a kitchen and were preparing to sell fish and bar-b-q plates inside the auditorium.I asked," if I could buy a fish plate right now"?The answer was yes and for those of you who don't know from my website that fried fish served with hush puppies and fries is my favorite meal.After I finished my plate,Mel Waiters band was doing a sound check and Donnie Ray's band were standing by.I got the opportunity to chat with some of the members from both bands and they all were familar with me and my website and that just showed me that the fruits of my labor are truly being recognized by the artist in this industry.You the fans have always been appreciative but now I truly realize that the artists feel the same way.I went backstage and bumped into a couple of familar faces.Willie Clayton's bodyguard Steve was in the house as well as MS. Equal Opportunity,Pat Brown.I chatted with the two of them as the crowd began to pour in.I positioned myself right down by the stage because the fans were really starting to pour in.So with my gin & juice starting to kick in and my belly satisfied,sit back good people and allow me to take you on this blues and southern soul ride.

A local band by the name,The Project Band opened up the show and the people in attendance gave them a decent reception.All the vocals were done by four females who did several renditions of some classic soul hits such as Betty Wright's "Cleanup Woman","Tonight Is The Night",the Staple Singer's "I'll Take You There" but the one the got the biggest approval was Jackie Neal's "Right Thang,Wrong Man".Overall it was a good performance and they did set a good tone for tonight's show.

The next performer was southern soul recording artist,Donnie Ray and this was my first opportunity to see him perform.I've listen to his music and I've always enjoyed it.I've never,ever heard anyone talk about this guy live performance.I see artists nominated for awards and his name is never,ever mentioned in any category.I know some of you fans have seen him perform but I can honestly say that this man is southern soul's BEST KEPT SECRET.Its possible I'll be saying this again about another artist that I might see in the future but for now I stand by my comment.The people in Vicksburg must be familar with him because he received a thunderous ovation when he hit the stage.He opened his performance with "Bang That Thang" and the party was on.I jumped to my feet because everyone near me did and I wasn't about to be a wet blanket for this performance.We were all cutting a rug down by the stage.His next song,"I'll Be Good To You" kept the people dancing and Donnie even got into the act as he showcased some slick dance moves for the crowd.His next selection was "Bottoms Up" and now it was clear that Mr. Ray wanted everyone up and dancing.It was some gorgeous women down by the stage and they were all shaking their bottoms to the delight of myself and I'm sure all the other guys who got a closeup view.LAWD HAVE MERCY!Looking ain't never hurt nobody.He slowed it down with his next song,"Too Close For Comfort"and this was my first time hearing this cut.For those of you who haven't heard this one please hurry up and do so.I've already added it to my favorite's list.This song allowed him to display his soulful side.Like the flick of a switch he was able to swoon the entire crowd.I was the luckiest man in the building as I was caught right in the middle of two beautiful sisters who decided that I was BIG enough to dance with the two of them.I LOVE THIS BLUES AND SOUTHERN SOUL THANG.I promise you that this song is going to be a big hit for him.He pick the tempo back up with "Come Back" and "Get It While It's Hot".He received his biggest applause of the night with "Let's Go Dancing" and thats exactly what the people in Vicksburg did.From the people uptop to the people down on the floor nearly everyone was up and dancing.He closed his performance with probably his biggest hit to date,"A Letter To My Baby" and the place erupted.He had everyone up on their feet for his entire performance including me.I can't ever remember standing so early at a show for an artist entire performance before.Donnie Ray is a terrific singer with a strong stage presence.I was simply blown away by his performance.I am now a BIG FAN of Donnie Ray.After his performance I went over to his merchandise area and introduced myself and fans this man already knew who I was.Its moments like this that really make me want to continue to bring you the fans with me to all of these shows.It is truly humbling to be in the presence of these beloved artists but its my personal joy to share it with you the fans.We can't turn on BET,MTV and VH1 so I'm glad to be able to at least provide you with some news and photos of some of today's biggest blues and southern soul artists.

The next performer was T.K. Soul and its amazing how his shows continue to get better all the time.He made a entrance right through the middle of the crowd covered with his silk boxing robe and being led to the stage by his bodyguard as well as Big Steve(Willie Clayton's bodyguard).He opened his performance with "You Can Ring My Bell" followed by "Short Skirts,Tight Jeans".The highlight of his performance came when he performed "My Kind Of Girl".A lucky young lady in the crowd won a T.K. Soul drawing for an autographed silk robe(like the one he performs in).He left the stage and went to her table and personally presented her with the robe as he serenaded her.Another young lady who will be married in only a few hours requested a personal performance because she didn't have a bacholrette party so with her fiance' by her side and with his blessings he allowed T.K. to give his wife one last moment of freedom with another man.T.K. Soul is my boy and I love him dearly but after watching him bump and grind with this man fiance' she'll be thinking about T.K. while she is getting married today.Fellas don't do it.Keep him away from your woman.He performed several of his other songs including "If You Don't Want Me","Meet Me At The Spot","Where Jody Stay", and"Cheating And Lying".He was joined on stage by his neice for "Real Love Is Calling" and she continues to gain more confidence with each performance.I can see her stage presence getting stronger.He closed his performance with my personal favorite "My Life".As usual he delivered big.The crowd was into his performance the whole time especially the ladies.

The last performer of the night was Mel Waiters and Vicksburg must be Mel Waiters country because the building erupted when he hit the stage.He opened his performance with "Pop It Baby" and as he went low to pop it the women gave him a nice ovation.His next song,"Smaller The Club" had the Vicksburg auditorium rocking.He performed two of his early hits next."Hit It And Quit It" and "Swing Out" according to Mel himself were made big hits from the fans in the Jackson and Vicksburg,Mississippi area.By the reception he received when he performed them they are still big hits in Vicksburg."Throwback Days" and "Get It On Song" are two singles from his new cd.The "Get It On Song" is going to be another hit for Mel.He was able to ad-lib with the ladies in attendance on this one.His next song,"Got My Whiskey" allowed him to receive his biggest ovation of the night.It was one guy that had too much whiskey,the poor guy was down front asleep doing a Mel Waiters performance.That should be a crime in Mississippi.How can you fall asleep on Mel?Mel did his personal testimony next and he gave GOD all the praise for his sucess as an artist with "Thank You Jesus".The crowd was very respectful as Mel was giving GOD his glory and even T.K. Soul came on stage and shook Mel's hand as he performed his spiritual hymn.He closed his performance with the song that shot him to superstardom."Hole In The Wall" was the perfect song because it was 2:00 am in the morning.The crowd was trying to get Mel to extend the song because it was still standing room only this late in the show but Mel told the crowd he had to go.

Tonight was a great night for the fans of this blues and southern soul thang.Plenty of food and drinks accompanied by the sounds of these dynamic recording artists made this a sucessful southern soul party.The highlight for me was having the opportunity to see Donnie Ray perform.As always I had a great time and I just wanted to share it with you the greatest fans in the world.Take care and MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALWAYS.

Big K9

"PARTY WITH THE STARS TOUR"

Hello Blues and Southern Soul fans.After working hard for the man all day long I was able to "Party With The Stars Of JEA/RIGHTNOW RECORDS".Anybody thats a fan of the Memphis Music scene can recall the glory days of Stax records with artists such as Otis Redding,Johnnie Taylor,Albert King,Rufus Thomas,William Bell,Sam & Dave,Carla Thomas,The Soul Children and Booker T & The MG'S just to name a few.Last night I was able to be in the midst of some of that soulful history.Thanks to LeVonne Sampson and Larry Dodson I was able to sit backstage and be in the presence of James Alexander(Orignal Bar-Kay) and J. Blackfoot(Soul Children).These artists were creating this magical music before I was born but I can remember my uncles and aunts playing their old 45's and this brand of soul music has always been a part of me.The orignal Bar-Kays were the spiritual sons of "The Mar-Keys".The original group consisted of Phalon Jones, James Alexander, Jimmie King, Carl Cunningham, Ronnie Caldwell and Ben Cauley.Doing their first record in March 1967, most of them died tragically in the same airplane crash with Otis Redding in December of 1967.This year "THE LEGENDARY BAR-KAYS" will be celebrating their 40th year anniversary in the music business.It is truly a BLESSING to have this much longevity in the entertainment business and thats why I was truly humbled and honored to be in the presence of this Legendary Band and J. Blackfoot.

The Washington County Civic Center in Greenville,Mississippi was the place and the lineup for this soulful gathering were the artists of the JEA/RIGHTNOW RECORDS LABEL.This awesome lineup included Lacee',Archie Love,J. Blackfoot and The Bar-Kays.Also on last nights show were Soul & R&B crooners Tony Terry,Glenn Jones and new and upcoming r&b sensation "TEMMORA".I arrived at the show early and was greeted by Larry Dodson(lead singer and front-man for the Bar-Kays)and he allowed me to settle backstage to take photos and just chat with some of the JEA/RIGHTNOW RECORDS artists.I knocked on the dressing room door and a rapy voice said ,"come in".I would recognize that voice anywhere it was the original lead singer for The Soul Children and present day southern soul legend,J. Blackfoot.I introduced myself and to my suprise he opened his arms and embraced me and this allowed me to settle down and relax.The other artists hadn't arrived yet so J. Blackfoot and I were able to sit and talk for a few minutes.He was actually born in Greenville and still has relatives here and some were in attendance for tonights show.The rest of the JEA family arrived including Lacee',Archie Love,SAM FALLIE(got it right boy),James Alexander,Darryl,Ducthess and their events coordinator,LeVonne Sampson.After taking a few photos and chatting,it was now showtime.I left to sit with the best group ever assembled,the fans of this blues and southern soul thang.It was a BYOB affair so the atmosphere for tonight's show was a festive one.So sit back good people and let me take you on this blues and southern soul ride.

The first performer on the night was "The Songstress",Lacee'.I saw her perform a couple of months ago and I was very impressed with her performance to be a newcomer to this southern soul thang.I wasn't sure if the people in Greenville were familar with her music so I had to sit back and see what type of reception she would receive.She walked out on stage and received a huge ovation from the people of Greenville.She opened her performance with a rendition of Cheryl Lynn's "Got To Be Real" and the crowd jumped to their feet.A seventies(70's) disco hit was moving the crowd.Her next song was "No Pain No Gain" and the ladies down front by the stage were all into Lacee's performance.She was able to ad-lib with the ladies and this made the fans feel like they were a part of her show.Her next song was a rendition of Aretha Franklin's "Dr. Feelgood" and she did the Queen of Soul justice on this one.She gave a very moving and gut wrenching performance and the women down by the stage was cheering her on big time.She closed her performance with her biggest hit to date,"You-Gon-Make-Me"(Clown About My Man) and again she was able to ad-lib with the crowd and they simply loved it.She closed her show with the people up and dancing to her smash hit.The best way to describe Lacee' is sultry,soulful and sexy.She is becoming one of my favorite southern soul divas.For people who haven't heard this soulful diva please purchase her debut cd "The Songstress" and I promise you that you will not be disappointed.She set the tone for a very soulful evening.Great performance.

The next performer was "The Amazing",Archie Love.I saw him perform for the first time about a year ago in Greenwood,MS.On that night his show was limited so it was hard for me to determine just what kind of artist he truly was.Well last night I found out that he is truly "AMAZING".He opened his performance with Frankie Beverly & Maze's "Joy And Pain" and immediately the people of Greenville were feeling Archie Love.He had the crowd up and dancing.I didn't ask him if Frankie Beverly & Maze were his musical influence but he kept their theme going with his next song "Southern Girl".This nice uptempo song kept the crowd up and dancing and then toward the end of the song Archie along with his backup singers SAM FALLIE and Dutchess went into a tight dance routine and they received a nice ovation from the crowd.His next song,"Loving On Borrowed Time",allowed Archie to display his vocal range as he slowed down his performance with a nice silky ballad. He closed his performance with his smash hit "Should've Been There For You" and the ladies down by the stage who were beginning to be the life of the party were all loving this cut.He asked all the single ladies to come to the stage and did they ever.Several young F-I-N-E women flocked to the stage as Archie had a dozen long stemmed roses and he serenaded the ladies with Eddie Holman's "(Hey There)Lonely Girl" and he had the ladies swooning.Other women began to flock to the stage but only a lucky dozen received a rose from the "Amazing One".Archie Love is a terrific entertainer.His smooth soulful voice to go along with a strong stage presence was a joy to watch.I've seen my share of performers the last couple of years and Archie Love is truly among the best.Excellent performance.

The next performer in my opinion is a living legend.Greenville,Mississippi's very own J.Blackfoot hit the stage and he received the biggest ovation of the night.Everyone in attendance were on their feet and the stage area began to get crowded.He opened his performance with "Just Got Paid" and the opening lyrics are,"its Friday night and I just got paid" and several of the people in attendance said,"damn right".I got a big chuckle from that.A dance floor had formed on the side of the stage and it was packed with people getting their groove on.Greenville's native son had the place rocking.His next song was a personal favorite of mine.He was joined on stage by JEA recording artist Lacee" for "Just One Lifetime".The original duet is with Ann Hines but Lacee' did her proud on this night.The chemistry between J. and Lacee' was terrific.They had several couples in attendance slow dancing to this cut.I was just blown away by Lacee's abilty to sing this song just as equal to Ann Hines.His next song he was joined on stage by JEA recording artist Archie Love."Same Woman" also provided some good chemistry between J. and Archie.They were able to ad-lib with the crowd and with themselves which made this a very entertaining cut.The higlight of the song was when Archie left the stage area and chose a woman from the crowd to be the theme for this song.Archie remained on stage to help J. with the song that propelled him to superstar status as a solo artist."Taxi" received a thunderous ovation from the crowd and it was like a bomb had went off.He closed his performance with a sample of his song from his new cd titled,"It Ain't Over Til Its Over" and the crowd loved it.As he walked off stage the people in Greenville wanted more of the living legend and believe me he wanted to go back out there but as we all know that these shows are on a schedule.Damn good show.

R&B crooners Tony Terry,Temmora and Glenn Jones all performed in sucession.Tony Terry performance was highlighted by his song,"Look To The Hills" which was his testimony song.He stated that he once was a drug addict but now he's not."In The Shower" and "With You" were very popular with the ladies in attendance.

Glenn Jones also received a big ovation from the people in Greenville.The ladies down front were his biggest support base for his performance."We've Only Just Begun" and "Baby Come Home" highlighted this soulful crooner's performance.

The biggest suprise of the night for me was new and upcoming sensation,Temmora.I had never heard of her before but now all of that has changed.One of the most beautiful and sexiest ladies that I've ever seen walked out on stage and myself and the rest of the guys in attendance just melted.She opened her performance with Erica Badu's "Tyrone" and she got the crowd on their feet.She was able to get the crowd really hyped with her rendition of The Pussy Cat Dolls,"Don't Cha".She performed Chaka Kahn's,"Ain't Nobody" and this kept the crowd dancing.Her next two songs were Donna Summers' "Bad Girls" and "She Works Hard For The Money" and these two disco songs had the people up and dancing.She closed her performance with two of her own songs,"Catch You On The Flipside" is a nice R&B cut and I hate to compare artists because I know an artist want their own identity but she sounds very similar to R&B recording artist Chante' Moore.She closed her performance with a nice quiet storm cut titled "There's No Me" and her angelic voice filled the civic center.Pretty,sexy, and talented makes her a very good recording artist.A sultry voice with eye popping sexy dance moves makes her a complete artist.I don't follow mainstream R&B like I use to but I know that I can expect bigger things from this gifted young lady in the future.You won my heart.A breath-taking performance.

The final performers of the night were "THE LEGENDARY BAR-KAYS".I remember seeing them as a little kid at a fund raiser back in my hometown of Mound Bayou,Mississippi.I was only about 10 or 11 years of age at the time and I still remember that performance.Fast forward some twenty five(25) years later and I am still excited about seeing this group perform again.The Bar-Kays on this night consisted of James Alexander(Original Bar-Kay),Larry Dodson,Archie Love and Darryl(I forgot his last name but I will get it).When they hit the stage the place erupted.They opened their performance with "Boogie Body Land" and fans alike young and old now made the whole damn civic center a dance floor.The stage was flocked by female and male fans who all wanted to get a close-up look at the legends performing."Shake Your Rump To The Funk" kept the Civic Center grooving to the P-Funk sound from the seventies that made this band so unique.With background vocals from Archie and Darryl,the electrifying sounds coming from James Alexander's bass guitar and the smooth but funky vocals from lead singer Larry Dodson The Bar-Kays were bringing the house down.They continued the P-Funk groove with "Do It/Let Me See You Shake" and "Certified True".Larry Dodson's was able to display some slick and dynamic dance moves with these classic hits.They slowed the party down with a cut I hadn't heard in years,"Anticipation" showcased Larry's laid back soulful vocals.Much of The Bar-Kays sound is a hard hitting,funky vibe but this song allowed them to display their abilty to make you want to dim the lights down low and make your family grow,if you know what I mean.It was getting late and I guess the local law enforcement were ready to go but The Bar-Kays and the people in attendance weren't ready to leave just yet.They did portions of their other classic hits such as "Too Hot To Stop","Holy Ghost","Move Your Boogie Body", and "Freakshow On The Dance Floor".After forty(40) years in the game The Bar-Kays are still able to deliver big time.Larry Dodson is one of the bestshowman in the world and James Alexander skills on bass guitar are second to none.Throw in the perfect vocals of Archie Love and my man Darryl,the Bar-Kays are still show-stopping performers.Before they left the stage they brought back the whole JEA/RIGHTNOW family on stage.This was a solid display of unity and the people at JEA Records are truly one big happy family.

"The Party With The Stars Tour" is a must see show for fans of all varieties.It was an honor for me to witness this talented group of entertainers.I would like to thank again my girl LeVonne Sampson and Larry Dodson for allowing me to cover this show from backstage.To be in the presence of this collective group will be something that I will cherish always."The Party With The Stars Tour" will be coming to a city near year.For more information about this tour and artists for JEA/RIGHTNOW RECORDS please call (601)540-1130 or (601)368-9766.Temmora you have a BIG fan now so please keep in touch and let me know about future shows.Good people I had a great time last night and as always I just wanted to share it all with you.Take care and MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALWAYS.

Big K9

TEXAS BLUESFEST REVIEW

BY DJ Chatterbox

HEY WHATS GOING ON EVERYBODY?WELL I HAD A CHANCE TO COVER THE 2006 BLUES FEST PROMOTED BY COBALT ENTERTAINMENT RECENTLY IN CROSBY TEXAS.WELL EVERYONE WAS ON PINS AND NEEDLES BECAUSE THE TEXAS WEATHER CAN ACT FUNNY ON YOU @ ANY GIVEN MOMENT BUT THE GOOD LORD HELD UP THE RAIN AND THE SHOW WAS AWESOME.HOUSTONS OWN RUE DAVIS AND LADY AUDREY & THE SUPERIORS KICKED THINGS OFF IN FINE FASHON,THE SHOW STARTED @ 12 OCLOCK IN THE AFTERNOON AND IT WAS STANDING ROOM ONLY.AND THERE WAS A BRASS BAND FROM NEW ORLEANS THE CROWD WENT WILD AND THERE WERE A LOT OF THE HURRICANE KATRINA SURVIVORS @ THE BLUESFEST AFTER THE BRASS BAND FINISHED THE CROWD JAMMED TO THE SOUNDS OF D.J RICHIE RICH AND D.J JAZZY JEFF DURING THE INTERMISSION .AFTER THAT ZYDECO SUPERSTAR STEP RIDEAU GAVE THE CROWD SOME FOOTSTOMPING ZYDECO MUSIC!!(dust was flying everywhere)AFTER STEP RIDEAU FINISHED MALACO RECORDING ARTIST FLOYD TAYLOR MADE THE LADIES WEAK @ THE KNEES AS HE SANG SOME OF HIS TUNES AND THEN WOWED THE CROWD BY SINGING SOME OF HIS DADS MATERIAL.AFTER FLOYD TAYLOR WAS DONE THE INCREDIBLE LENNY WILLIAMS TOOK THE STAGE AND HE WENT TO WORKS SINGING SOME OF HIS OLDER TUNES AND SOME OF THE SONGS FROM HIS CURRENT ALBUM "MY WAY" BUT WHEN HE BROKE DOWN WITH "CAUSE I LOVE YOU"EVERYBODY STARTED SINGING IT WITH HIM,OOH OOH OOH OOH OOH OOH OOOH AND I DAMN SURE CRIED HELL I WANTED TO PROPOSE TO MY WIFE ALL OVER AGAIN,HE EVEN CAME BACK OUT FOR AN ECORE THEY WENT BANANNAS!!!D.J RICHIE RICH TOOK THEM BACK IN TIME WITH SOME OLD SCHOOL BLUES,I MEAN SOME LOWDOWN BACKALLEY BLUES.3BUD LIGHTS AND 2 SHOTS OF CROWN LATER IT WAS TIME FOR THE HOMETOWN BOY THE PG MAN PATRICK GREEN TO TAKE THE STAGE AND TAKE THE STAGE HE DID,HE CAUGHT FIRE FROM THE VERY BEGINNING AND WITH THE SUPERIOR BAND BACKING HIM UP IT WAS ON LIKE DONKEY KONG.UNFORTUNATLEY HIS TIME HAD TO BE CUT SHORT IN ORDER TO KEEP THINGS ON TIME BUT PATRICK GREN BEING THE GRACIOUS HOST THAT HE IS OBLIGED THE PROMOTERS WITH OUT TALKING SHIT.(you know how some artists act,they do more trash talking than singing)AFTER THE PG MAN IT WAS TIME FOR THE QUEEN OF THE BLUES MS DENISE LASALLE WHO HAD THE LADIES SCREAMING AND THE GROWN MEN CRYING CAUSE SHE WAS TALKING CRAZY TO ALL OF US FELLAS(she encouraged all of the women to drop that zero and get yourself a hero,but the only problem was i was already spoken for)AND THEN THE CROWD JUMPED TO ITS FEET AS THE LAST SOUL SINGER TOOK THE STAGE,I'M TALKING ABOUT THE POET,THE PREACHERMAN,BOBBY WOMACK!!!!!EVERYONE GAVE HIM A STANDING OVATION IT WAS SO MUCH NOISE THAT THE STRUCTURE STARTED TO SHAKE.SONG AFTER SONG AFTER SONG THE CROWD SUNG RIGHT WITH HIM UNTIL THE END.HE THANKED ME FOR FEATURING HIS MUSIC DURING MY FRIDAY OLDIES SHOW(every friday i feature an artist for an hour which is called the bunch for lunch)FINALLY THE POET SAID GOODNITE HE CLOSED THE SHOW WITH"NO MATTER HOW HIGH I GET" EVERYONE LEFT WITH NO VIOLENCE ,IT WAS JUST A PLAIN OLE GROWN FOLKS EVENT!!!TALK TO YOU LATERAND REMEMBER "IT'S TOUGH OUT HERE"AND YOU'D BETTER KNOW IT"

JUNE 3,2006

MEGA BLUES SHOW

Hello Blues And Southern Soul Fans.Last night was a great night for the people from the Mississippi Delta.The king of the blues,B.B. King had his annual homecoming in Indianola,Mississippi and 15 miles down the road in Greenwood,Mississippi a MEGA BLUES SHOW with a lineup that included Willie Clayton,Omar Cunningham,Jeff Floyd,Reggie P and Roni took place.I honestly don't know who booked these two shows on the same night but I wish that they could have made an adjustment.I was going back and forth on which show to attend last night.I've seen B.B. King in concert numerous times,dating back some twenty(20) plus years ago but with the passing of some of our most beloved artists the last couple of years it made me wonder if I would ever get the chance to see him perform again?He is now in his early eighties(80's)and he only come this way once a year now.On the other hand I've never had the opportunity to see Jeff Floyd,Reggie P and Roni perform live before.I didn't want to miss the opportunity to see someone perform for the very first time because you really don't know if you will get that opportunity again so I decided to go to Greenwood for the Mega Blues Show.

When I arrived in Greenwood at the Leflore County Civic Center,I couldn't believe my eyes.Showtime was at 8:00 pm and it was now 7:45 pm and the building was just about empty.I was joined by my co-worker,Micheal Simms(Big Mike) and his friend Jackie.Three months ago in this very same building they had to turn away fans who didn't already have an advance ticket for a show and now tonight it was barely a hundred fans in attendance.We had no problem getting a good seat right down by the stage.I saw Willie Clayton and his bodyguard,Steve over by his merchandise table so I went over to say hello.I asked Willie was the show going to be postponed and he simply said, "no way Big K9".This is why I truly love this blues and southern soul thang,with an empty building the artists and the promoters said the show would go on.I went back to my table and let Big Mike know that the show was still on.He said the smaller the crowd the better so we began to sip our gin and juice and chase them with Bud Light.So with about only 200 hundred fans in a building that seats thousands sit back fans and let me take you on this blues and southern soul ride.

My homegirl(Mississippi native),Roni was the first performer of the night and just like Ms. Monique a couple of weeks ago this was a much anticipated performance for me.We both were looking forward to meeting each other and I told her that I wouldn't miss an opportunity to see her perform.She and Jackie Neal were good friends and it was in this same building that I saw Jackie perform for the first and only time.As Roni walked out on stage she made it clear that although the house wasn't packed she was ready to let it do what it do.She graced the stage with a S-E-X-Y outfit and myself and a few of the guys in attendance were simply blown away.LAWD HAVE MERCY!I got the same feeling when I saw Jackie Neal hit the stage.She truly deserves the title of "Sexy Lady Of Southern Soul".With the face of an angel she began belting out Betty Wright's "Clean Up Woman" and we all gave her a nice ovation.She has an amazing voice and everybody down by the stage was feeling her."Do You Want What I Want" was her next song and the guys at the table across from us all said in unity, "hell yeah".It was nice to see with the small crowd that everyone was still having a good time.Her next three songs "Hit It Like U Miss It","Not Gonna Beg" and "Freaky" continued to keep the guys across the table from us hyped.Before she began her show Big Mike and Jackie weren't familar with Roni but by now they were loving her,her next song "Call Me" got the two of them up and slow dancing and they continued on dancing with "Cheating On Me".By now I observed that although she is a new artist she knows how to carry a show.I just hate that it wasn't a full house to see her doing her thang.She saved the best for last "A Fool On My Hand" she began to ad-lib with some explicit language which got a nice ovation from the people in attendance.Just like Denise Lasalle,Millie Jackson and Big Cynthia to name a few she delighted the crowd.She closed her performance with "Lets Shake It" and she asked the guys if anyone wanted to join her on stage?I'm from the old school and shaking it ain't my thang and I guess I hadn't had enough gin and juice to go on stage and make a damn fool of myself.I hate that the other guys in attendance didn't join her on stage but when she asked if any of the ladies wanted to join her she was able to get a fan to join her.Together Roni and the fan began to work it together and the fellas were loving it.I love how the artist in this genre of music allow the fans to be a part of the show.Before she ended her performance she said she had to really SHAKE IT and LAWD HAVE MERCY did she ever.She began to shake and wiggle like an exotic dancer and this received a nice ovation from everyone in attendance.Roni has the stage presence of a veteran recording artist.Her live vocals are terrific and those exotic dance moves makes her the total package.Sexy and soulful would describe her best.She is truly a major star on the rise.The divas of southern soul are getting stronger and along with a few more divas I can honestly see females dominating shows in the very near future.Take a bow Roni,your friend Jackie Neal is looking down smiling.This was a great performance that set the tone for the rest of the show.After her performance I had the opportunity to talk to her and like so many of these beloved artists from this genre of music she is very humble and appreciative to the fans who support their music.We took several photos and agreed to stay in touch.While taking pictures Miss Equal Opportunity,Pat Brown came over to say hello and this was my first time meeting her.She wasn't performing so I was suprised to see her,she joined me and Roni for a photo.This is why I love this blues and southern soul thang.

The next performer was my man Omar Cunningham and just like Roni he acknowledge that the house wasn't full but he was going to deliver big.He opened his performance with "Before I Let Go" and the ladies in attendance started making some noise."Hell At The House" got me up and juking.He slowed it down with his next three songs."Baby Don't Leave Me","Married Man" and "Sweet,Sweet" got Big Mike and Jackie out their seats and slow dancing again,by now they were having a great time and this was just amazing to see.Omar had the people in attendance at his command.I've always boasted about his live vocals and with only a small crowd on hand he still delivered.A woman by the stage was wanting to hear his song "What Makes A Man" and it probably wasn't on his playlist but staying true to this genre of music Omar carried the tune by himself( this song is a duet with Jennifer Robyn)and everyone gave him a nice ovation.His next song was a rendition of Freddie Jackson's "You Are My Lady" and his soulful vocals were showcased to the maximum on this one.Damn that boy can sing!He performed his first big hit "Check To Check" and once again I began to get my groove on.He closed his performance with a sample from his new cd,"I Think I Have Made My Move To Soon" is the title and he was joined on stage by his friend and mentor,Willie Clayton.It looks like he's got another hit with this one.As always my man did one hell of a performance for us country folks tonight.

The next performer was Reggie P and this was my first opportunity to see him perform.I didn't really know what to expect from him especially since the house wasn't packed.He came on stage and received a nice ovation.He opened his performance with "Nobody Wants You" and this was one of his songs that I really liked.I've never been to a Blues/Southern Soul show where an artist didn't have good live vocals.I just can't believe how good the artist from this genre of music sound live.Since the place was not full I was able to really study the artist during their performances last night and Reggie just like the other performers before him,he belted out every lyric with lots of energy.This energy carried over to the people in attendance because they were really into his performance by now.His next song "Come On Girl" allowed him to get the fans involved.He was joined on stage by a female fan and he and his band members began to cut up big time.This got everyone up on their feet.She was a large woman who was on stage doing her thang an those cats had a job on their hands.I don't won't to call it freak dancing that they were doing,I will refer to it as grown folks dancing.Enough said.I did get a big chuckle out of it.His next song was "Hold On" and went he left the stage thats exactly what he did.I thought the brother had lost it for a minute,he was walking around and not singing at all for about two minutes.I was worried about a brother for a minute but after the long pause(I still didn't get it)he resumed his singing and was even joined by Pat Brown to close the song and their vocals blended very well together.His next song was Z.Z. Hill's "Down Home Blues" and the small crowd made lots of noise.He closed his performance with my personal favorite "Why Me" and he was joined on stage by his neice and daughter.Reggie P is a solid performer who did exert a lot of energy for the people in attendance.Somebody just got to explain to me about that long pause in "Hold On".

The next performer was Jamming Jeff Floyd and I've been a big fan of his for awhile now.I know that southern soul legend,William Bell has been a friend and mentor to Jeff since he began his recording career.I was looking forward to his performance.When he walked out on stage several more people had showed up and though still small in number he received the loudest ovation of the night.He opened up his performance with "Let Me Know" and for anyone who has seen this young man perform already know what I just found out,he has the most P-O-W-E-R-F-U-L live voice that I've ever heard.Whew!His voice echoed through the civic center like thunder.Damn!I can't count the number of fans in attendance but all of them were on their feet now.I stood in awe as Jeff began singing "I Got My Woman Upset".I've listened to his cd "The Power Is Still On" but I never really noticed how POWERFUL his vocals were.By now he had my full attention.The next song was "Lets Git It On" and I tell you people,the more Jeff sang the better it sounded to me.His next song was a rendition of Solo's "Heaven" and if you remember this song you know you got to have some strong pipes to pull this one off and my man didn't disappoint at all,he received another big ovation from all in attendance.The small crowd in Greenwood,Mississippi was loving Jeff Floyd.His next song was "Somebody's Gonna Lose A Good Woman Tonight" and just like Omar Cunningham had earlier carried a duet solo,Jeff Floyd did the same thing.I wish William Bell could have been there but Jeff didn't disappoint.He closed his performance with my personal favorite "I've Found Love On A Lonely Highway" and once again he displayed his POWERFUL vocals.Jeff Floyd has a strong stage presence and much charisma,as a matter of fact I would say much like T.K. Soul,Omar Cunningham and Sir Charles.Did I also mention that he has a POWERFUL VOICE?I've always loved his music but last night I became a BIG FAN.Damn good show!After his performance I got the chance to talk to him briefly.I told him that I was looking forward to seeing him on The Young Guns Tour.We took a couple of photos and agreed to stay in touch.

The final performer of the night was the dynamic Willie Clayton.Believe it or not it appeared to be more people in attendance now or the Bud Lights were beginning to get to me.Anyway he opened his performance with "I want U" and the country folks appeared to want him too because now everyone was right at the stage for the final performance.His next song was "Party Like We Use To Do" and partying down by the stage they were.He slowed it down with "Simply Beautiful" and Big Mike and Jackie along with everyone else was again in slow dance mode."Cheating On Me" kept everyone up and dancing.His next song was my personal favorite"I Love Me Some You" and people I never get tired of hearing it.I've said this a thousand times,I can listen to Willie sing this all night long.He closed his performance with "Love Mechanic",Kanye West's "Gold Digger" and "Wiggle".Wille Clayton remains one of the top performers on the Southern Soul scene and I continue to enjoy all of his shows.

I found out a couple of things last night.First of all the bigger the venue and the smaller the crowd,you can still have a great time at a blues and southern soul show,secondly the artists and the promoters for this genre of music are simply the best,thirdly B.B. King is still THE KING IN THE MISSISSIPPI DELTA because everyone was in Indianola and finally Jeff Floyd has a POWERFUL VOICE.To my co-worker Big Mike and his friend Jackie I really enjoyed you all at this show.I hope that we can continue to take this blues and southern soul ride together.Good people I had a great time last night and like always I just wanted to share it with you.Take care and MAY GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU.

Big K9

WALTER WAITERS MISSISSIPPI DEBUT

Hello Blues And Southern Soul fans.This Memorial Day Weekend will be well remembered by me.After the destruction of Hurricaine Katrina, life on the Gulf Coast is slowly but surely picking up the pieces.I watched on television just like the millions of others around the world as Hurricane Katrina ripped apart the gulf coast.I will never ever know how painful it was for the people in this area to experience such a catastrophe but I can only imagine the worst.My friend Herman Wilson has a Blue's Club in Gulfport,Mississippi that was spared by Hurricane Katrina.Other than the POWER OF PRAY AND THE FAITH & TRUST IN THE GOOD LORD,there is no better therapy for healing than the sweet sounds of the blues and southern soul music.Herman has dubbed his club "THE TURNING POINT LOUNGE" and our beloved Tyrone Davis has got to be looking down on Gulfport with a smile on his face.This club has played host to the likes of T.K. Soul,Jeff Floyd,Big Cynthia and Reggie P just to name a few.

Last night I attended my first but it certainly won't be my last show at "THE TURNING POINT LOUNGE".My lil brother,Walter Waiters was making his Mississippi debut.I put emphasis on Mississippi because this is my home state and we love and treasure our blues and southern soul heritage.I'll never say that we are the best fans of this genre of music but I do know we aren't the worse.I was joined on this night by a couple of my DOWN-HOME-BLUES-GROUP(DHBG) members Hazel(Music Lady) and her dear sweet sister Bell Ann.The two of them drove from Tallahasse,Florida to attend Walter's debut in the Magnolia state.I arrived at "The Turning Point Lounge" and locals were starting to show up.I was met at the door by my man Herman who immediately began to make me feel right at home.He was still preparing for tonight's show so I told him to handle his business because his club was like Club Ebony back in Indianola so I knew I would be alright.The sounds of Marvin Sease,Theodis Ealey,Billy "Soul"Bonds and many other artists were echoing from th DJ booth and this had the locals in attendance geared up for Walter's performance.I use to sterotype against people who lived on the gulf coast.I live in the Mississippi Delta and we are country folks but after seeing the crowd juking before the show these are some C-O-U-N-T-R-Y folks too.Walter's cousin Mel was right when he said the smaller the club the bigger the party.With the fish frying and the gin kicking in good people let me take you on this blues and southern soul ride.

Before Walter came on I had to look around the room to capture the moment.I know this boy is bad and I told Herman and many of the people in attendance that he was going to do the damn thing tonight but the look on some of their faces was we shall see.He hit the stage and myself along with Hazel and Bell Ann down front led a thunderous ovation.We got the crowd pumped for one hell of a show.He opened up his performance with "Don't Scratch My Back" and the crowd was into the show early.It had been a few months since the last time I seen Walter perform and I simply forgot how good his live vocals are.His laid back delivery and soulful voice got the people of Gulfport on their feet and dancing.It was about five females on the floor juking and no guys hit floor.I took it upon myself to get the fellows up and dancing so I hit the floor and stepped right in the middle of these women and ya'll they began to scratch my back.I began calling for the guys to hit the floor and just like that,Walter Waiters had won the hearts of the people of Gulfport.His rendition of Rufus Thomas "Walking The Dog" got a roaring ovation from the now packed "Turning Point Lounge".I've described Walter's music as the blues smoothed out on the southern soul tip and his next two songs personified that."Creepin" and "Careful Woman" got me up off my feet again to join a now crowded dance floor.He began belting out Ray Charles "The Night Time,Is The Right Time" and I was trying to convince one of the ladies in attendance to join him on this selection.She almost bit but I guess the thought of fame was too much for her.I love the way Walter makes the crowd a part of his show.When it came time for Margie Hendricks part the entire crowd helped him on the delivery and this was great for all in attendance.He kept the southern soul sound going with a rendition of Otis Redding's "Sitting On The Dock Of The Bay" and by now it was sing along with Walter Waiters and the packed house was feeling this TEXAS BLUESMAN.He performed a couple of songs,"Just Me" and "Twerk It" from his new cd and the people of Gulfport gave them a stamp of approval.

He switched gears for his next few selections.Walter is a Bluesman first and he always has acknowledge this fact.I watched Theodis Ealey perform a couple of months ago and I was impressed by his ability to be soulful but maintain his true music identity which is the blues.Walter is cut from the same cloth.He kicked off his blues set with our beloved Little Milton's "The Blues Is Alright" and the good people in Gulfport agreed.He took me home with some deep down home tradional blues.He played several hand-clapping and foot-stomping blues songs.His masterful skills on "LUCY"(his keyboard)were taken to a different level.In the middle of one of his selections my lil brother began to get a little explicit.Every show that I attend now the male artist display tounges that would put an anaconda to shame and lil Walter was no different.I guess its a good thing because all the females came front and center with cameras in hand and began snapping,even Bell Ann joined in on the photo shoot.Marvin Sease,whats really going on?Not to be ignored was the sounds coming from this keyboard.The sounds of B.B. King,Buddy Guy and the late great Albert King filled the room.I guess the best part of the show ocurred while Walter was performing Z.Z. Hill's "Somebody Else Is Stepping In".I forgot to get her name but their was an 82 year old lady in attendance and she was helped to the dance floor.The entire club zoomed in on her and bless her little heart she began to cut a rug and the place erupted.She was joined by her son who also had been a mainstay on the dance floor once the guys began getting their groove on.Walter closed his performance with a tribute to his mentor and friend,the late Buddy Ace."It Don't Hurt No More" is one of my personal favorites and Walter closed the show with a bang.Everbody was on their feet and clapping in approval as Walter strolled from center stage and entered the crowd.The good people in Gulfport embraced this TEXAS BLUESMAN with an extended ovation.They loved Walter so much that it was announced that he would do another show the next night.The place again erupted in approval.I was so moved by the overflow of love being displayed for Walter who came to the Gulf Coast region and helped the good people in this area for one night forget all about the destruction of Hurricane Katrina.I've heard what goes on in the club,should stay in the club.I have to disagree this time around.Walter's performance tonight should be told and I just had to tell it.I heard about an all-star lineup going on in Huntsville,Alabama and I know the fans there had a great time but I bet if you ask anyone who was at "The Turning Point Lounge",they wouldn't trade Walter's performance on this night for anything in the world and unlike Huntsville, Gulfport has Walter for one more night.I made a comittment to my friend and I'm glad that I joined the people in Gulfport on this night.

After the show,Herman was the DJ for the after party and his sounds kept everyone partying.We took a few photos and talked with a lot of the people in attendance.I told the people that Big K9 would be barking in Gulfport again.Hazel and Bell Ann it was good to party with you all again.Herman thanks for the invitation and with you running the "Turning Point Lounge" the good people in Gulfport will always have a place to escape.Walter,thank you for allowing me to be an integral part of your show.People in attendance thought that I was your hype man(lol!).

Good people I had a great time in Gulfport and like always I just wanted to share it with you,the true fans of this BLUES AND SOUTHERN SOUL THANG.TAKE CARE AND MAY GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU.

Big K9

1ST ANNUAL CANTON BLUESFEST

Hello Blues and Southern Soul fans.Yesterday I attended my first outdoor blues show in about three(3)years at THE JUNKYARD SPEEDWAY in Canton,Mississippi.The lineup for the show included Lacee,Ms. Monique,Vick Allen,Omar Cunningham, and Willie Clayton.I was joined at the show by fellow Dawg Pound member Cyrus Duvall(Sly Cy).When I first arrived it wasn't a very large crowd on hand but after about thirty(30) minutes the fans really started pouring in.The sight of the big stage made me reflect back some twenty plus years ago when I was just a kid attending all those outdoor shows back in the Mississippi Delta.Every year B.B. King does an outdoor concert for his homecoming but I haven't attended his outdoor concerts for a couple of years now.I always catch his second show at Club Ebony but after yesterday I plan on going to more and more outdoor concerts.It was a bright sunny day and you couldn't have asked for a better enviroment.The Bar-B-Q grills were smoking and the Beer was on ice.Sit back good people and let me take you on this BLUES AND SOUTHERN SOUL RIDE.

The first performer on the evening was JEA/Right-Now recording artist Lacee.I've heard her song You-Gon-Make Me(Clown About My Man)but I wasn't very familar with her.Well good people all that has changed now.She walked out on stage and immediately commanded the crowds attention.Since this was a grown folks show Lacee was a little sassy and explicit with her performance and the crowd loved it.She opened the show with "Im In Over My Head" and was then joined on stage by recording artist Archie Love for her next song titled "Ooh Wee".Their chemistry together on stage was wonderful.With their powerful voices blending together and the way they ad-lib with one another was very solid.The crowd was really into her performance by now.I hope to see more duets from these two recording artists.Her next song was a rendition of Aretha Franklin's "Dr. Feelgood" and this got the crowd out their lawn chairs.She did the Queen of soul justice on this one.She closed her performance with her biggest hit to date "You-Gon-Make Me Clown About My Man".After her performance I had the opportunity to meet her Events Coordinator,LeVonne Sampson and we chatted briefly about Lacee.She introduced me to James Alexander and Larry Dodson of the famed Bar-Kays who own JEA/RIGHT NOW RECORDS.Lacee is a sensational performer who reminds me of a young Denise Lasalle especially with her grown and sassy lyrics.She set the tone for a great show.

The next performer was my girl Ms. Monique.She and I have anticipated this day for awhile now and when I found out that she would be in the surrounding area I promised her that I would attend her show.This was my first opportunity to see her perform.As I was standing there waiting on her to come on stage I began thinking about Jackie Neal.I wish that she was here to see the divas of southern soul representing the industry now.My thoughts were soon turned back to the stage as the soulful Ms. Monique made her way onto the stage.For those of you who have seen her show already know that her entrance is one of the most heavenly sights for the eyes to see.Like an angel coming down from heaven Ms. Monique graced the stage and the crowd gave her a big ovation.She is smooth,sassy and soul sexy.My heart along with the other guys in attendance just melted.LAWD HAVE MERCY!She opened her performance with "Get Up" and believe me all the fellows did.Sly Cy and myself with Bud Light in hand began to get our groove on.I was glad to see that Cy was enjoying himself and my girl Monique had a lot to do with it.Her next song was my personal favorite"Mr. Do Right" and it sounded so good.Her soulful vocals filled the air and I could have listen to her sing this song all night long.The fellows as well as the ladies were loving this one as well.To hear all the positive things being said about Ms. Monique was very nice.She has a strong stage presence with an amazing powerful voice.She closed her performance with "Love Therapy" and once again her soulful voice was sweet music to the ears.Ms. Monique is truly classic soul all over again.I call her the Beyonce Knowles of southern soul music but make no mistake about it she is her own woman.I'm a big fan of hers and she is one of my favorite recording artists.Since our beloved Jackie Neals' death I've been in tuned with the ladies of southern soul music now more than ever.Denise Lasalle will always be my favorite but Ms. Monique and a couple of more divas are now close behind.In a industry that is so male dominated I want to let the ladies know that your music is right up their with the guys and it is so good to see the impact that you all are starting to have on the Blues And Southern Soul scene.After her performance we took a couple of photos together and agreed to keep in touch.I am very humbled but I'm also very glad to call her my friend.Great show Ms. Do Right.

The next performer was Vick Allen and this was my second opportunity to see him perform.I saw him once before in Jackson,Missisippi at one of Willie Clayton's cd release parties.As he walked out on stage I quickly noticed that his stage presence was a lot different from the last time I saw him perform.He looked more comfortable and confident.He opened his performance with "I Better Walk Away" and the crowd gave him a nice ovation.He followed that with "Who You Been Given It to" and my personal favorite "Creepin Ain't Easy" which by now had made several of the women in the crowd flock to the stage.His next song "Clean House" was a show stopper.He really had the women going with this one.Let me just say this,when he displayed his tongue to the women Marvin Sease would have had to take a backseat for this one.Enough said."Wrong Place Wrong Time" kept the women on their feet.I love to see artist paying tribute to the old school and his next two selections brought everyone front and center and cutting a rug.Tyrone Davis "If I could Turn Back The Hands Of Time" and "Give It Up Turn It Loose" filled the night air.It was a great tribute to Tyrone Davis.He closed his performance with "Lets Dance" and the crowd was in total agreement.His performance was more polished since the first time I saw him perform and with his soulful voice I only expect to see and hear great things from this talented brother.After his performance we took a photo together.I talked to him briefly and he said that he would stay in touch.

The next performer was my man Omar Cunningham.It had been awhile since I seen him perform or talked to him but like always the brother saw me and showed me some love.It was really good to see him again.He has always been one of my favorite artists.He opened his performance with "Before I let Go" and immediately all the women in attendance flocked to the stage.This brother stage presence is outstanding.I've always said that his live vocals are the best in the industry and his powerful voice filled the night air.He already had the audience at his command.He followed that with one of his classic hits "Hell At The House" and once again me and Sly Cy began to cut a rug.It was getting late but everyone in attendance was still getting their groove on.He slowed it down with one of my favorite songs "Baby Don't Leave Me".As I was standing there with Sly Cy,Ms Monique and her manger Tony Taylor came over to me to thank me for supporting them and she presented me with an autograph picture of herself.This was the classiest act ever displayed to me by a recording artist.I gave her a big hug and almost came to tears.This is why I love this blues and southern soul thang.My attention was back to Omar's performance and he continued to swoon the crowd.During "Married Man" and "Sweet,Sweet" he was giving away free t-shirts and I felt bad for the women who damn near broke neck trying to get one.It was nice to see that doing the attempt to get those t-shirts no violence erupted.He closed his performance with "Check To Check" which happens to be the song that shot him to superstardom.It has always been one of my favorites.After his performance we took a couple of photos together and he told me that he had been following my website.We vowed to stay in touch this time around.As always damn good show.

The last performer of the night was the dynamic Willie Clayton.I've seen him,T.K. Soul and Denise Lasalle perform a lot the last couple of years but as always I never get tired of them.Last night was no exception.Earlier during the show I took a couple of photos with him and its always good to see and talk to him.I got the opportunity to talk to his son Young Bap who told me that Willie had just finished shooting a music video so blues and southern soul fans stay tuned for that one.He opened his performance with "I Want You" and followed that with "Party Like We Use To".During "Simply Beautiful" he was joined on stage by Vick Allen and Omar Cunningham.He has been a mentor and friend to these young guns and you can see their admiration for him as well.He performed my personal favorite "I Love Me Some You" and like fine wine its sounds better and better whenever I hear him sing it live.Now I realize what I miss most about these outdoor shows.The sound of music and voices filling the air,simply beautiful.He performed "Love Mechanic","If You Ever Get Lonely","Unconditionally","Three People Sleeping In My Bed" and "Wiggle".Young Bap(son) joined him on stage for a couple of songs as he closed his performance.It was late and me and Sly Cy was ready to exit stage left.

I had a great time last night and as always I wanted to share it with you the true fans of the BLUES AND SOUTHERN SOUL MUSIC.I would like to give a shout out to the crew of the Blues And Soul Report.I had the opportunity to meet Funky Larry and the crew at the show.Take care and MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALWAYS.

Big K9

TheUltimate Blues Show
Hello Blues and Southern Soul fans.My 2006 reviews continue with a show that I attended last night in Greenville,Mississippi."The Ultimate Blues Show" was the theme of last night's show that was being sponsored by Rico Owens.The lineup for tonight's show included Carl Sims,T.K. Soul and Lenny Williams.After working a 12 hour shift I was joined at the show by several co-workers of mine.For some it was their first time attending a show and I really wanted them to have a good time on this night.When I first arrived the crowd was still pouring in.I was hoping to get a good place down by the stage so I could be joined by my co-workers.As I entered the seating area I saw my man Keith Miles(T.K. Soul's publicist)setting up his table with lots of T.K. Soul merchandise.We talked about the upcoming "Young Guns Tour" and the M.L.K. cruise(Martin Luther King Day )which I gladly paid my deposit on last night.Its always good to talk with Keith and T.K. Soul these are some humble and down to earth brothers and its a pleasure for me to call them friends.My co-workers all walked in the seating area and they came over to join me and Keith.After a brief introduction we all found us a nice spot close to the stage.This was my second show in Greenville this year and the good people in Greenville do know how to party.It was BYOB so the atmosphere was a very festive one.Sit back good people and let me take you on this Blues and Southern Soul ride.

Local natives John Horton and Mississippi Slim opened the show.I've seen their shows advertised here locally but I've never seen them perform.I feel kind of bad about that also.The very genre of music that I love and support is right here but yet I only attend when the more established artists come to town.I made a promise to myself that I'm going to support the local blues artist right here in the Mississppi Delta.I wasn't familar with their songs but I could see that they were very polished performers.They performed their own material which was a mix of traditional blues and a little soul music.The crowd was feeling these guys because they had them on their feet and dancing which set the tone for a great night of entertainment.

The next performer was the M&M man ,Mr. Carl Sims.I've always enjoyed his music and this was my first opportunity to see him perform.I had to glance around to see how my co-workers were feeling after the opening act.With the help of some Hennessy,Gin,and Crown Royal chased with Budweiser and Bud Light my co-workers were getting their Bluz on for sure.Carl Sims opened his performance with "It's Just A Party" and the crowd agreed,he received a thunderous ovation.His live vocals were good and his band was providing some nice grooves especially his bass player.The next song he performed was "I'm A Blues Man" and the ladies in attendance all flocked to the stage.He has a strong stage presence because he was really working the crowd by now.Midway through the song he went into a hip-swerving and pelvis thrusting dance routine that set very well with the females in attendance.I don't know if the women knew the lyrics to this song but they were deep into his dance routine.His next song was "Seventeen Days Of Loving" and the women all stayed down by the stage.Carl Sims is a very smart entertainer,if it ain't broke don't fix it because he began doing the same damn dance routine and the women were still eating up.I had to step out for a moment and when I returned to my suprise he was still bumping,humping,grinding and singing the same damn song.Don't get me wrong that is not a bad thing but I know about twenty minutes had passed so my man Chill Will said he should rename this song "Seventeen Minutes" because of the long version and this had me laughing.He closed his performance with my personal favorite "I'm Trapped" and he received another thunderous ovation.One of my co-workers(Cory) who is new to this blues and southern soul thing really like this song and when he heard it he began to get his bluz on.I was so happy to see my co-workers really enjoying themselves thus far.Carl Sims is one of my favorite male artists and I was glad to see him perform for the very first time.

The next performer was my man T.K. Soul.I've seen his show so many times but a couple of my co-workers who are big fans of his were really anticipating this performance.No disrespect to Carl Sims or Lenny Williams but "The Bad Boy Of Southern Soul" was the reason my co-workers were coming to this show.He came out on stage in his boxing robe and the whole building jumped to their feet.My co-workers(male and females) were loving it.Its amazing that I've seen his entrance lots of times but I even got hyped when he came out on stage.It seem like everyone was trying to rush to the stage so security had to step in and unlike Carl Sims performance the women were not allowed to come directly to the stage.He opened the show with "Meet At The Spot" and the ladies as well as the guys were up and dancing.By now my co-workers were the ones tyring to get me to get my bluz on.I was just so happy to see all of them having a good time.I've said this many times,this young man is among the best showman in the business today.He has much charisma and throw in his sensational dance moves with some of the best live vocals I've ever heard and now you have the total package.He kept the crowd up and dancing with "Short Skirts,Tight Jeans" and "Cheating And Lying".He made the ladies melt with "Where Jody Stay" and "Ring My Bell".He closed his performance with my personal favorite "My Life".I asked my co-workers was it a good performance? Now they want to know when and where is the next show?It was another great performance by my man T.K. Soul.

The last performer of the evening was Lenny Williams and just like Carl Sims this was my first opportunity to see him perform.I hate to admit it but at the beginning of his performance many of the people in attendance headed straight to T.K. Soul's merchandise and photo area.Following T.K. Soul is a hard act for anyone to follow.The former lead singer of the "Tower Of Power" opened the show with "This Time It's Real" and the people of Greenville gave him a nice ovation.He followed that with "Midnight Girl".I do remember these classic soul songs from back in the day.Its been awhile since I heard those two.I was hoping that he would perform some of "Tower Of Power" other classic songs.To my suprise his next song was a Hall And Oates song called "Sarah Smile" and the audience really embraced this song.His next song was William Devaughn's classic hit "Just Be Thankful" and this brought everyone attention back to Lenny Williams and I was glad to see it.Before this song his performance was kind of fading but "Just Be Thankful" got the crowd back up and dancing.His next song was from his new cd titled "Can't Nobody Do Me" and the people still in attendance were feeling it.I believe this is going to be a hit for Lenny.He closed his performance with the song that shot him straight to superstardom "Cause I Love You".He blew the roof off the building.Every couple in the house all swarmed the floor when he began this medley.To hear this song live is truly an amazing experience.Whew!!!!!!!!!!!
I even got chills from this one.Its not how you start the race,but how you finish the race and the soulful Lenny Williams finished with a bang.All the couples in the crowd were all hugging and kissing during this song.I've seen some powerful songs in my lifetime but to make the audience do what I WITNESS LAST NIGHT IS THE ULTIMATE.I saw a man dancing with his wife or girlfriend or whomever the hell she was breakdown and cry.Enough said.Lenny Williams you are the man.

I had a great time last night and as always I wanted to share it with THE TRUE FANS OF THE BLUES AND SOUTHERN SOUL MUSIC.Take care good people and MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALWAYS.

Big K9

Hello Blues and Southern Soul fans.Last night I attended The 2006 BLUES A LA CARTE at the Washington County Convention Center in Greenville,Mississippi.This was a night of firsts for Da Big Dawg.The awesome lineup included Mississippi native Theodis Ealey,Mel Waiters,Denise Lasalle and Bobby Rush.I was joined on this night by WILL"CHILL" LINDSEY A NEW MEMBER OF DA DAWG POUND.This was his first Blues & Southern Soul show so I had to make sure that this was a night that he wouldn't forget.When we arrived the crowd was still pouring in,we noticed a nice spot right down by the stage and we quickly settled in for the start of the show.The DJ was playing a lot of Tyrone Davis and that was just fine with the people in attendance,Greenville is the birthplace of "THE LEGENDARY HALL OF FAMER" who had family and friends in attendance.The people in Greenville were juking before this show got started and this set the tone for one hell of a show.The people in Greenville know how to have a good time.The only problem that I had was the beer line was too damn long.Sit back folks and let me take you on this Blues and Southern Soul ride.

The first performer of the night was "THE STAND UP MAN" himself, Mr. Theodis Ealey.This was my first time seeing this Mississippi native perform.The crowd gave him a huge ovation when he walked out on stage.His band sounded so good as he joined them with his guitar licks.If anyone has ever seen Theodis perform already know that he is a wiz with his guitar.He went into a routine that was made famous by fellow Mississippi Bluesman Charlie Patton.He raised the guitar behind his head and continued to jam without missing a beat.I knew right then that Theodis Ealey is a BLUES MAN.He started to perform some deep traditional blues and when I say deep I mean foot-stomping and hand-clapping blues.I'm not sure if it was Charlie Patton or Howlin Wolf but the BLUES was alive and kicking in Greenville,Mississippi.He told the crowd that he was proud to be a Mississippian and they showed their appreciation by letting out a loud roar of approval.I was feeling his performance and so was my man Chill Will.The place was rocking and Theodis would make sure that it stayed that way.He left the stage and made his way to the audience and the people loved it.His skill on the guitar is truly amazing.He had that guitar talking to the crowd and they enjoyed every minute of it.He made his way back to the stage and began performing some of his own music."MOVE WITH THE MOTION" and "DON'T YOU WANT TO PARTY" kept the people dancing but his next two songs would blow the roof off the building."LET ME PUT MY HEAD IN IT" received a thunderous ovation.The men and the women flocked to the stage.He closed his performance with the song that shot him to superstardom "STAND UP IN IT".The women in the place went wild.Let me just say this,every man in attendance lost focus on Theodis when he performed this song.I got the chance to talk with him and we took a couple of photos together after his performance.I had to ask him who inspired him on the guitar?The answer was fellow Mississippi native,The Late Great Albert King.I really enjoyed his performance and on this night I also became a big fan.

Mel Waiters came on next and just like Theodis this was my first time seeing Mel Waiters perform.I've been a big fan of his for years and he is one of my favorite artists and I was thrilled to have this opportunity to finally see him perform.He opened up the show with "POP IT BABY" and the folks in Greenville immediately jumped out of their seats and would remain standing for his entire performance.I was very impressed with his band especially his sax man Bigg Joe.Mel's live vocals were terrific.I didn't know he had such a powerful voice.The next song he performed was "SMALLER THE CLUB,BIGGER THE PARTY" and he began working the crowd.He has much charisma and he also displayed a strong stage presence.His next performance really moved me.For the true Mel Waiters fans you've probably seen him do this a thousand times but once again this was my first time seeing him perform.He took the time to give GOD praise and he touched the crowd with his testimony."THANK YOU JESUS" was truly soul-stirring.I was so glad to see that the people in attendance were very receptive and respectful doing this particular performance.He put a lot of things in perspective and I think everyone in the place felt both humble and blessed.It was truly amazing the way he was able to work that into his performance.I hope that this is a fixture in his shows I would love to see it again.His next song was "THROW BACK DAYS" which is also from his new cd.The people in Greenveille must already have it because they did a sing along through the entire song.Mel has another hit with this one."GOT MY WHISKEY" got a huge ovation and it got my man Chill Will up and dancing and I'm not one to be out done so I began to cut a rug myself.I really love this blues and southern soul thang.He closed the show with his biggest hit "Hole In The Wall" and the place erupted.I love to see these country folks having a good time.Mel Waiters was a master showman on this night.Great performance.After the show we talked for an extended period of time and we also took a couple of photos together.He said he had visited my website and enjoyed it.I am truly blessed to have the opportunity to rub elbows with the likes of Mel Waiters.Only with this genre of music that you are allowed this chance.We agreed to stay in touch.I'm looking forward to seeing him perform again.

The next performer was "THE QUEEN",Denise Lasalle.You all have read several reviews of mine from her show but it never gets old for me.She is and will always be my favorite female performer.She was led on stage by her son and my friend Ray.She opened up her performance with "Lady In The Street" and the people were up and dancing.By now it was a Blues Party going on in Greenville,Mississippi and I was happy to be a part of it.The Bud Light had me feeling good and I was enjoying The Queen as always.She performed her version of "Down Home Blues" and she told the crowd that she and her friends Z.Z HILL,TYRONE DAVIS, and LITTLE MILTON use to play Greenville all the time back in the day.Some of the people in attendance must have remembered because she got a large positive response from that one.Can you imagine a show with Z.Z. HILL,TYRONE DAVIS,LITTLE MILTON and DENISE LASALLE?Next she performed my personal favorite "TRAPPED BY THIS THING CALLED LOVE".I was joined on the dance floor by a young lady in attendance.Only at a blues and southern soul show will the ladies come and ask the guys to join them on the dance floor."SNAP,CRACKLE AND POP" and "DROP THAT ZERO" both received huge ovations and she closed the show with "DON'T MESS WITH MY TOOT-TOOT" accompained by her son Ray who got on stage and "twerked it" for the females.After the show I went greeted her.Its great to see the smile on her face when she sees me.I affectionally call her GOD-MOTHER and she calls me her GOD-SON.Ray and I chatted briefly also.Its always good to see Denise and her son Ray.

Bobby Rush was the last performer and just like Denise Lasalle I've seen his shows more times probably than any other performer.As usual he hit the stage with his dancers and LAWD HAVE MERCY!He opened the show with "AIN'T SHE FINE?" directing his attention to his dancers who were doing their thang.The answer to his question is HELL YEAH!Bobby Rush was his vintage self tonight.He had the crowd singing,laughing and dancing with his show but once again his dancers stole the show.The men all gathered around the stage to get a closer look at these lovely ladies.Bobby kept the women hanging on too.His raw lyrics accompanied by his "twerk it" dance moves allowed the women to have their time to get a liitle bit wild also.He performed all his classic hits "GARBAGE MAN","BIG FAT WOMAN",HOOCHIE COOCHIE MAN","EVERYBODY LIKE THAT THANG","HENPECKED", and "SUE".He closed the show with "NIGHT FISHING".In my opinion he and T.K. Soul are the best showman on the scene today.It was another awesome performance by Bobby Rush.After his performance Chill Will,one of his college buddies(who also performed with Bobby Rush) and myself took a picture with this Living Legend who by the way is seventy-two(72)years old.

I had a great time last night and as always I just wanted to share it with the true fans of this BLUES AND SOUTHERN SOUL THANG.Chill Will told me that he had a great time and that this is just the beginning of his blues and southern soul ride.Good people take care and MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALL.

Big K9

TRI STATE BLUES FEST

by Big K9

DownHomeBluesgroup@yahoo.com

Hey Good People, Its been awhile since I've posted a message but this country boy has been working 12-15 hours a day six(6) days a week.I did take a break this weekend to attend the 3rd Annual Tri State Festival in Southaven,Mississippi.I've attended a couple of blues shows this year and each time it was after the death of a blues artist.First it was Tyrone Davis and then Jackie Neal.Saturday's show came right after the passing of our beloved Little Milton Campbell. I can call this show a show of first.I had an oppurtunity to see some blues great for the first time.The lineup for this show included Denise Lasalle,Willie Clayton,Shirley Brown,Bobby Blue Bland,Sir Charles,Bobby Rush and Marvin Sease.Denise Lasalle opened the show and she was great.She got the audience invloved quickly and it set the the tone for the rest of the night.Her show was brief but she performed every song with a lot of energy.Willie Clayton was on next and as always he was vintage Willie Clayton.I've seen his show numerous times and I seem to enjoy it more and more.I thought it was awesome when he did a tribute to blues greats Johnnie Taylor,Tyrone Davis,Little Milton and even Luther Vandross.He always have a way to warm up to the audience with his tributes.He said he wish his show could have been longer but he was dynamic as always.Shirley Brown came on next and this was the first time that I saw her perform.She has an amazing powerful voice.I've been a fan of her music for awhile.Her motion on stage was limited and it appeared that she moved very gently at times.I don't know if she had any type of physical discomforts but her voice was magnificent.I was she would sing" Don't Go Looking For My Man" a personal favorite of mine but none the less I enjoyed her Performance.Bobby Blue Bland came on next and once again this was the first time that I saw this living legend perform.The crowd gave a thunderous ovation when he walked out on stage.I couldn't help but to think about Little Milton when he started to sing.Those two must have did a lot of shows together.Members Only got the crowd on their feet.I'm glad that I was there to see a living legend perform.Sir Charles came on next and just like the previous performers this was my first time to see him perform.He came off stage and walked through the crowd and every woman in their must have been screaming.The young man has much charisma and he showed a strong stage presence.He stole the show.I took a couple of pictures with him and he told me to tell his friend in Dothan,Alabama hi.(Smile Margie!)Bobby Rush came on next and he looked great.I've been watching him perform since I was a teenager.I'm glad to see him still going on strong especially with us losing our beloved artists this year.The last performer was Marvin Sease.I watched him earlier in the year and he was so electricfying but his performance at this show did not measure up to the earlier one.It was a good performance but I was hoping that he could close the show with a bang.He did get the ladies up when he performed "Please Take Me". After the show I took pictures with a few of the performers and I just wanted to share them with the group.I take a lot of pictures because you never know when or if you will get a chance to see some of these artists perform live again.

Bigg Robb and The Problem Solvas Headline In Montgomery

By LeighalaJ

A bit weary from the weekend, I am still buzzing from the excitement of last nights events. Radio station owner Roscoe Miller really knew what he was doing when he billed Bigg Robb and The Problem Solvas at Montgomery Alabama's Carmichael Center. Let me begin by saying that the Carmicheal Center which is black owned and Operated, is undoubtedly one of the nicest venues I have had the opportunity to visit to date. It is a community center/concert hall which hosts on ongoing variety of musical shows ranging from Hip-Hop and R&B to Blues, Gospel concerts and Plays. Walking into the back stage area I was amazed at how relaxing and homey it was. There are four nice sized dressing rooms with showers, well lit mirrors (which is very important for an entertainer) the main sitting area back stage is a seafoam green color with four state of the art flat screen tv's on the wall which allow you to see what is going on in the front of the theatre and on stage from several angles. Also there are two sets of black leather couchs with matching overstuffed chairs. Very inviting specifically since I had just driven in from Atlanta, where I had been to an event earlier that day. I was a little off time wise, however, after pushing the gas peddle a little too much I noticed the clock in my car had gone back an hour, time change (duh!) I slowed down and still made it to the venue safely and the soundcheck was still going on.

    With very few hitches, the show went on as scheduled as local recording artist Monique Ford, opened the show. She performed a few cover tunes to include Earth, Wind and Fires, Let's Groove and her own songs to include her hit song "Get A Maid" which is in the top 5 on several charts. She really got the crowd going.   Next up was Montgomery's own Jody Sticker, who returned to his hometown to rock the house with his mix of down home southern soul adding a few props which left little to the imagination as to what was on his mind. I must admit I have never thought of oil sheen as an afrodisiac before (still don't) I guess it's an inside joke that i'm not party to. Somebody please ask Jody what it's used for. Accompanied by a local band his show was entertaining as his outfit was colorful. Brother had a multi-colored sequinned suit on with a black silk t-shirt and all I can say is he did his thing.

   At 11:15 p.m the real show began, as the voice of Bigg Robb came over the sound system, to announce that the party was about to start and start it did... Bigg Robb, Bigg Woo, Sure 2 B and Mr. Walt marched out from behind the curtains all clad in Pink Suits, fedora hats with one long feather sticking out for effect along with Uncle Mel in a classic black suit and pink silk tie. Women ran from all parts of the room to crowd the stage to get a closer glimpse and a possible touch from the guys who did the damn thing, for real. Bigg Robb, the consumate professional and perfectionist made sure that the crowd got exactly what they came for and more. He came prepared for multiple wardrobe changes which is his M.O... For those of us who know Bigg Robb from ZAPP we were prepared for the unexpected, however for those new fans they received a treat like none other. Before I go to far I want to shout out his road crew, The Smith Family, his beautiful wife who took the reigns and did not take down when it came to the Bigg Man's business and his three children Max, R-3 and Destiny and which were his supporting cast, doing everything from wardrobe, lighting, camera operation and merchandising. That is what I call a family affair. Also kudos to Davie O, of the Sir Charles organization who put it down on the sound system. (I hear his new band Nappy's Groove is H-O-T!!! on the Atlanta music scene).

   Now back to the show....Initially, there were a few techical difficulties which affected the sound however, like the true pro's that they are Bigg Robb and Da Problem Solvas weathered it like champs, using it as an opportunity to show the crowd that they were not just a studio band. Just to prove it he put, front man Bigg Woo to the test his vocal abilities and sing he did....That man knows he can sang. Take a hint of gospel, soul and blues and the fact that he's a good looking man and a star is born, he had the ladies were screaming and fanning themselves as he walked up and down the stage, So remember the name Bigg Woo. Mr. Chip was even called away from his drums to give the women a little something extra, he took off his shirt to show off his chistled upper body which had the ladies in an uproar especially when Bigg Robb threw it into the audience and two women vyed for it (incidentally, the shirt was not returned, OOPS). After getting the sound together they continued to do what they do best Funk The Crowd Up!!!! People were dancing in the aisles and showed no signs of slowing up. They performed Problem Solvas hits, Same Thing, Weekend, Grown Folks Music...Guys, I was waiting for the Macaroni song...maybe next time, huh? They also did a tribute to Roger Troutman as Sure 2 B struck up the Robb Box and did a medley of Zapp tunes including More Bounce To The Ounce and Doo Wa Diddy, which saw Bigg Robb so from a Pink suit to a Silver outfit with his trademark funky rhinestone clad glasses. After Changing into a blue suit with Rhinestone butttons Bigg Woo once again showed his prowess as he sang the Ojay's hit "Let Me Make Love To You Baby" it was enough to melt a block of ice. All I can say is OOH WEE!!!

   The piez de resistance came after the last clothing change of multi colored rainbow like fishnet material in Bigg Robb fashion he had the hat, shoes and a little something extra to set it off. He announced that he was about to give all the full figured women exactly what they came for "The Bigg Woman Song" which was remixed into a Montgomery Alabama version siting all of the landmarks and hot spots in town both past and present. Now this is where all the fun starts because as they asked for audience participation of a few plus sized beauties, enlisted from the side of the stage was yours truly who hit the stage along with three other bbw's to drop it like it's hot with the Bigg Man himself who midway through the song, dropped his pants to display his trademark sequinned diaper which further served as a catalyst driving the crowd of ladies wild with excitement