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.
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.
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.
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!!!!
more pictures here
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.
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.
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.
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 thrustin
