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Grady Champion
Holds Court At
26th Annual
Chicago Blues Festival
By Brinda Fuller Willis, Ph.D.
Jackson Advocate Contributing Writer
The 26th Annual Chicago Blues Festival was billed
as the largest free blues festival in the world and is considered a right of passage for any blues singer worth the salt is
his bread and Grady Champion demonstrated that he has a lot of that main ingredient as he set the Mississippi Juke Joint Stage
on fire, Sunday night paying homage and tribute to the “Queen of the Blues,” Ms. Koko Taylor, who death and funeral
services coincided with the festival.
This year the 26th Annual Chicago Blues Festival
celebrated the life and works of Robert Nighthawk born Robert Lee McCollum, in Helena, Arkansas on the centennial of his birth
(1909-1967). Nighthawk is said to have traveled throughout Mississippi and was heard on the radio in Jackson during his noted
itinerant career first as a harmonica player and later on received great acclaim as an accomplished slide guitar bluesman
on the historic Maxwell Street in Chicago but is said to have considered the Mississippi Delta his home.
This year the festival was cut short a day starting on Friday,
June 12th and ended on June 14th with no less noticeable enthusiasm or star power delivered by a cast
of characters that embodied the blues music genre. The Blues Festival welcomed two-dozen new performers along with blues icons
such as Ms. Bettye LaVette, Sharon Jones and The Dap-Kings, and a 70th Birthday Party for Eddie C. Campbell, one
of the last originators of the Westside sound that was considered by many as Chicago blues until Chess Records and Willie
Dixon put their indelible stamp on the Southside blues sound that influenced jazz, country and rock and roll, R&B, Hip-hop.
Noted for having several performing stages the Chicago Blues
Festival organizers filled each one with a little something-something for every appetite such as Pinetop Perkins, Magic Slim,
Willie “Big Eyes” Smith, Charlie Musselwhite, Lurrie Bell, Carl Weathersby, Fernando Jones, Cyrus Hayes and Lady
Lee, Lil Ed and the Blues Imperials, Travis “Moonchild” Haddix, Ray Allison and Eddie Taylor, Jr. with Harmonica
Hinds.
As usual the Mississippi Juke Joint Stage was a must-see for
almost every festivalgoer because it showcases bluesmen and women from “The Birthplace of America’s Music.”
The Mississippi stage hosted Grady Champion, Big Jack Johnson, Terry “Harmonica” Bean, Eden Brent, Ben Payton,
and the legendary “Honeyboy” Edwards. The Mississippi Development Authority’s (MDA) Tourism Division was
the title sponsor of the Mississippi Juke Joint Stage along with their hospitality partners, the Mississippi Gulf Coast CVB,
Yazoo County CVB, Greenville CVB, McComb VB, Philadelphia Community Development Partnership, and the Mississippi Blues Commission
all of “whom help to promote and market Mississippi’s music heritage and wealth of travel offerings from its booth
during the festival over the last several years,” according to Alex Thomas, program manager for the Mississippi Development
Authority’s Tourism Heritage Trails Program.
An added highlight occurred just prior to the beginning of
the festival on June 11, 2009, the unveiling of the Mississippi (Chicagoland) Blues Trail Marker, one of a limited number
of markers to be erected outside of the state. The marker was set just inside Grant Park at Indiana & Roosevelt Road,
the site of the old train station where many of the now venerated bluesmen and women first arrived in the Windy City back
in the day.
Another special treat took place at the Willie Dixon Blues
Heaven Foundation (WDBHF) located at 2120 S. Michigan Avenue on June 13th, Saturday night when Grady Champion put
on an after festival set to the delight of approximately 200 very special guests that hailed from as far away as Mexico City,
London, France Germany, Holland, and Australia. Grady was joined on stage at Blues Heaven for a once-in-a-lifetime performance
with blues harmonica royalty, Steve Bell and harmonica master, Billy Branch. Then it really got hot at 2120 when Marie Dixon,
widow of the late Willie Dixon belted out a couple of Dixon tunes such as “Built for Comfort” and “Wang
Dang Doodle,” backed by the threesome. The Mississippi entourage for the after set included the owner of the 930 Blues
Café, attorney Isaac Byrd and Linda & Brinda Fuller, writers of the popular advice column, “Ask The Twins.”
Linda said, “We come to the festival every year as part of the sales team for the (WDBHF) and because Brinda is the
southern representative for the Foundation. We are longtime friends of the Dixon family. We met Willie and Butch Dixon back
in the 1970s when we teenagers and then as adults when we lived in Atlanta in the 1990s.”
The festival had a somber tone because of the death of the
“Queen of the Blues.” The Koko Taylor Celebrity booth remained closed throughout the festival but large sympathy
card hang inside the booth for all to sign. Several times large crowds were seen just standing around the booth exchanging
stories about times when they had encountered the Queen. Some played her music on their electronic devices in front of the
card and other openly wept. The services for Koko were hosted by Rev. Jessie Jackson at Rainbow/ Push headquarters with visitations
on Thursday and Friday from 4-6 p.m. and the funeral from 6-9 p.m. Friday night. During both visitations fellow bluesmen and
women sang their hearts out in tribute. Otis Clay sang his signature song, “When The Gates Swing Open,” during
the funeral services, as it was Koko’s favorite according to Cookie, her daughter. Close family friend, Marie Dixon
spoke passionately during the funeral services about her time with Koko and about Koko’s relationship with Willie Dixon,
who wrote the Queen’s signature song, Wang Dang Doodle,” which the crowd sang at the end of the services. Koko
Taylor will be remembered and cherished by her daughter, Joyce “Cookie” Threatt, son-in-law, Lee and grandchildren.
Tributes from Buddy Guy and Mayor Richard Daley were delivered during the Thursday night visitation. Koko was laid to rest
Saturday, June 13, 2009 in a private ceremony.
The 26th Annual Chicago Blues Festival climaxed
with the finale performance by Sharon Jones and The Dap-Kings under the Petrillo Band Shell.
Big SEXEE in the House
Checkin in "JUST
LIKE THAT"....
May 10, 2008 ROBERT JOHNSON BLUES FOUNDATION ANNUAL
JAMBOREE
THE FOUNDATION PROVED ONCE AGAIN
THAT THEY CAN
"CELEBRATE" JUST LIKE THE BEST. A CELEBRATION OF
BLUES GREATS AND RECOGNITION OF THE FOREFATHERS OF THE
BLUES
ALONG WITH NEW AND UPCOMING ARTIST WAS HELD IN
CRYSTAL SPRINGS. BLUES ARTISTS LIKE JESSE ROBINSON AND
HIS 500 LB BAND
WERE ONBOARD, THE MUDDY WATERS BAND,
LIL HOWLIN WOLF BAND ROCKED THE HOUSE. HONEY BOY
EDWARDS AND PINE TOP PERKINS,
THATS RIGHT GREAT
LEGENDS WERE IN THE HOUSE AS WELL.
THE FOUNDATION PRESENTED THEIR "NEW GENERATION AWARD"
TO
GABRIEL LAMBERT (15 YEARS OLD). HE PLAYS LIKE HE
HAS BEEN HERE BEFORE AND GOT THE SHO NUFF BLUES.
OH AND I MUST
NOT FORGET MR. T.K.SOUL WHO CLOSED OUT
THE EVENING OF EVENTS...WHAT A BETTER WAY TO SAY GOOD
NIGHT AND HAPPY MOTHERS
DAY.
IF I HAD ONE CRITIQUE, THERE SHOULD HAVE BEEN MORE
PEOPLE FROM AROUND THE WORLD. ROBERT JOHNSON WAS A
WORLDY
COUNTRY BOY BUT HIS MUSIC HAS BEEN PLAYED
AROUND THE WORLD AND INFLUENCES MANY ARTISTS. ONE FAN
THAT TRAVELED FROM PEARL
RIVER LOUISIANA THOUT IT WAS
A WELL KEPT SECRET. ME MYSELF DON'T LIKE SECRETS
HOLLA AT YOU NEXT TIME
JUST
LIKE THAT......
Check Out The Pictures
2007 WDIA JUKE JOINT TOUR SECOND STOP"
Hello Blues and Southern Soul fans I am excited to be sitting here and writing my review for the second stop
on the 2007 WDIA JUKE JOINT TOUR.I'm definetly feeling like a lil kid who is opening up all his presents on Christmas Day.Last
week I was able to experience all the excitement that surrounds this WDIA Juke Joint Tour and I thought I had it figured out.Good
people was I wrong.I told myself,you better drive up early so you can get setup and possibly be able to converse with all
these hardworking artists.Showtime was at 6:00 pm so I wanted to arrive a couple of hours early.LD'S CLUB PISCES was the host
for this blues and southern soul party.I arrived at the show around 3:30 pm and I couldn't believe my eyes it was a long line
assembled and fans were hoping to gain entry into tonights venue.I never imagined that it would be so many people already
there.The show was still about three(3) hours away and these fans were all here and waiting to get their partying on.I had
to find out how long these folks had been standing and waiting to gain entry.One lady,MS. Tiffany Hardy said she had come
all the way from Columbus,Ohio with some of her girlfriends and they had been at Club Pisces since 12:30.Thats approximately
three(3) hours and still another three hours before showtime so we are talking about fans waiting at least six(6) hours to
be apart of this WDIA JUKE JOINT TOUR.AMAZING!
Once again Jackie Ward who is The Promotions Director for Clear Channel
Radio Memphis WDIA-AM * WHAL-FM allowed me acess and VIP courtesy to cover this blues and southern soul gathering,so its through
her graciuos heart that I'm able to bring to you all the reviews and photos from this awesome tour.When I arrived I was greeted
by Jackie Ward and Juanita Burton(They look like sisters to me)who were working very hard preparing for tonights festivities.My
good friends Bill and Anna Coday(CEO of B&J Records),Kevin Wilson(B&J recording artist),Karen Wolfe,Cookie(Karen's
sister and backup singer),Star(Karen's backup singer) and Christine Davis(blues promoter from Holly Springs,MS) were already
in attendance so I was able to chat with them as I waited for the show to begin.Also in attendace was the lovely Toni Greene,The
Gentle Giant Of Southern Soul,O.B. Buchana and recording artist Sam Fallie(12 Steps 4 Cheaters).It was packed inside and I'm
very thankful that I didn't have to experience all the pushing and shoving from the previous show.Slowly but surely my WDIA
posse were all starting to assemble themselves in VIP.First there was The Legendary Bobby O'Jay,Charles"Kojak"Caldwell,Mel
Deberry,my good friends Jeff Lee and Steve Ladd who both had just left the air at WDIA.Pulling up the rear was Fred"Hollywood"Moore
and the Queen of the airwaves,Bev Johnson.So with the crew from B&J Records and my WDIA posse all assembled and the Bud
Light oh so cold good people sit back and allow me to take you on this blues and southern soul ride.
Mel Deberry and
Bobby O'Jay got the party started as they brought out local artist Preston Shannon to the stage.He only performed one song
"Baby I Will" but his deep and guttral voice caught my attention.I can tell that he was no stranger to the stage I wish I
could have heard more but he did get the crowd going with a good performance.Karen Wolfe was up next and she has always been
a favorite of mine.She opened her performance with her smash hit "Backdoor Love Affair" and she received a nice ovation from
the crowd.She closed her performance with "What Kind Of Man Is This?" and she allowed her backup singer Kelvin Wilson to share
the spotlight as he showed the ladies what kind of man he was.He is a terrific singer and has a brand new single titled "Daytime
Wit A Flashlight" that you fans can expect to hit stores next month.I thought it was wonderful that my girl Karen Wolfe allowed
him to display his terrific voice.I was disappointed that she didn't do "Unloveable Habits" which is a favorite of mine.Karen
you are truly special and I can't wait to see you perform again.
The next performer was my homeboy David Brinston.I
haven't seen him perform in years.He has always had a unique singing style that I simply enjoy.I describe that style as Southern
Fried Soul And Blues.He opened his performance with "Work That Thang" and he had a couple of sexy dancers that sho nuff was
working it.For fans who haven't seen David perform his dancers were working that thang just as hard as the Bobby Rush dancers
so now you know what they're really working with.He closed his performance with "Party Til The Lights Go Out" and this cut
had everyone up and cutting a rug.It was so good to see him perform again.
The next performer was The Legendary Latimore
and the applause he received was deafing to the ears.He was truly humbled by the big ovation.He opened his performance with
his classic hit "Lets Straighten It Out" and his deep souful baritone voice filled the entire juke joint as the women were
all screaming as the legend did his thing.He closed his performance with a new single from his new cd titled "My Give A Damn
Gave Out A Long Time Ago".This is one of his best songs in years and it will definetly dominate a lot of playlist.He received
another huge ovation as he exited the stage.Latimore appeared to really be doing well these days.I'm so glad to see that he
is still performing like vintage Latimore.
The next artist was THE DIVA ,Shirley Brown.All the other artist were using
tracks but Shirley Brown was not having that.She hit the stage with her band on hand.I guess when you have reached legendary
status you can dictate your performance and to be honest I'm glad she did because a live band in a packed juke joint is definetly
a tribute to the good old days.I was really into a "good old juke joint" mood now.She opened her performance with "Sleep With
One Eye Open" and the packed house was feeling this cut for real especially the ladies as a table of women on the side of
me were all singing their hearts out.She closed her performance with her classic hit "Woman To Woman" and she received a standing
ovation as she exited the stage.I want to extend my thanks to her as she took a few moments to talk with me and she even took
a picture with me(She doesn't take a lot of pictures anymore).She is and will always be "THE DIVA OF SOUTHERN SOUL BLUES".
The next performer of the night was Floyd Taylor(Son of blues legend Johnnie Taylor) and this was my first opportunity
to see him perform.It is truly amazing how much he looks and sounds like his father but make no mistake about it,Floyd Taylor
is his own man and his talent speaks for itself.He opened up his performance with one of his early hits "I'm Crazy About That
Woman In Red" and the ladies were melting as Floyd rocked the juke joint.He closed his performance with "You Still Got It"
and the son of the legend has truly emerged as FLOYD TAYLOR.He gave shout outs to Latimore and Shirley Brown and I can only
imagine all the roads traveled together by Johnnie Taylor,Latimore and Shirley Brown.Those were truly the good old days.
The
next performer was The Juke Joint Man himself,Carl Sims.He was brought out on stage by the beautiful Bev Johnson and the two
of them shared a few moments on stage.He opened up his performance with "House Of Love" and thats exactly what the packed
house showed him.His next song was "I'm A Blues Man" and this got the crowd up and juking led by Bev Johnson and Fred"Hollywood"Moore.He
closed his performance with "I'm Trapped" and this is a personal favorite of mine.It was sing along with Carl Sims as he asked
the crowd to help him on this song.LD,the owner of Club Pisces wanted him to perform "It Ain't A Juke Joint Without The Blues"
but Bev Johnson told him he already had did three songs(one more than the other artist).I've always enjoyed the sounds of
Carl Sims and it was good to see him perform again.
The next performer was one of my favorite Southern Soul divas,Sheba
Potts-Wright and it was so good to see her again.She always take the time to meet and greet me whenever I'm at one of her
shows and I'm very thankful to her for that.She had a foot injury(she came to the show on a cane) but being the entertainer
that she is she left the cane at her table as she came on stage.She opened her performance with "I Need A Cowboy To Ride My
Pony" and I couldn't even notice a a discomfort with her foot as she dazzled the crowd with her sexy dance moves.She closed
her show with a bang.The very popular"Slow Roll It" received a thunderous applause from the crowd led by all the fellas who
were really whooping it up.She was joined on stage by one of her Slow Roll It Dancers(Theresa).Her show is a must see for
all of you who haven't had the opportunity to see her perform.I must commend her on still performing when it was obvious that
she did have a foot injury.Thank you sweetie and thats why you are truly one of my favorite southern soul divas.
Newcomer
Jewel Jones was the last performer on the night.I wasn't familar with her music but she and her backup singers aren't strangers
to the stage.The Memphis native received a lot of love from the hometown folks.She does have a nice voice and I'm looking
forward to seeing more of her in the near future.
I said it last week and probably will be saying for the rest of
the tour but I think it is wonderful how the good people at WDIA provide the fans of this genre of music with these exciting
shows and all of them for free.I would like to thank Bill and Anna Coday,Karen Wolfe,David Brinston,Latimore,Shirley Brown,Floyd
Taylor,Sheba Potts Wright,Sam Fallie and O.B. Buchana.I would like to give special thanks to Jackie Ward,Juanita Burton,Jeff
Lee,Steve Ladd,Bobby O'Jay,Kojak,Mel Deberry,Fred"Hollywood"Moore,Bev Johnson and the rest of the WDIA staff in attendance
who showed me so much love at this southern soul party.To all the fans in the Memphis area I hope you all can come out and
be a part of this blues and southern soul party.For more information on the remainder of "The WDIA 2007 Juke Joint Tour" please
go to www.am1070wdia.com
The smaller the club the bigger the party and I had a blast at this juke joint and like always
I wanted to share it with you,the greatest fans in the world.Take care and MAY GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU.I'll be seeing you down
by the stage.
Big K9
"WDIA 2007 JUKE JOINT TOUR FIRST STOP"
Hello Blues and Southern Soul fans.The last three(3) years has been a wonderful blues and
southern soul ride for this old country boy from a small town in Mississippi.I'm proud to be a native of MOUND BAYOU,MISSISSIPPI,
the oldest all black town in America.A lot of you folks probably have never heard of my hometown but I know many of you have.Mound
Bayou has been dubbed "THE JEWEL OF THE DELTA".Former slaves founded Mound Bayou, and the town remained an all-black community
until seven or eight years ago. "We run everything," and "We take care of ourselves" would be spoken loud and proud from the
young,old,male and females. No one has been able to come in and take it over.The community's self-sufficient history stands
a mark of pride for the town residents.I remember in the early 1980's,I guess I was about eleven(11) or twelve(12) years old,Mound
Bayou was hit with a lawsuit(I won't go into details but a white woman sued the community for a seven figure amount).The legal
system ruled in her favor and this proud community was left devestated.The impact of that ruling left the town pretty much
in limbo,everywhere I would go,to a neighbor's house,school and even church everyone was wondering how the town could overcome
this financial burden.At the end of every bad storm there is a break in the clouds and you can see a bright and sunny sky.For
the citizens of Mound Bayou,WDIA 1070 AM(MEMPHIS,TN) was our sunshine.Americas first black radio station reached out and saved
an entire community.WDIA held several fund raising events including an all star soul blues concert that featured such artists
as Tyrone Davis,The Legendary Bar-Kays,Rufus Thomas and The Reddings(Otis Redding children) just to name a few.I remember
that day just like it was yesterday.It was so much love and everyone was having such a good time that no one even cared about
the lawsuit at least not on that day.I've always held a special place in my heart for WDIA,hell I even use to call myself
"Bobby O'Jay" because he was truly the coolest cat on the airwaves.
I recently attended the first stop of the 2007
WDIA JUKE JOINT TOUR.The Gay Hawk Restaurant & Club was the venue for this blues and southern soul party.When I arrived
there were cars parked for blocks and blocks,I had no idea that so many people would be in attendance.I had to park my truck
and walk about a 1/4 mile just to reach The Gay Hawk Restaurant.Several hundred people were posted outside with lawn chairs,bar-b-q
grills,tables and tents so I assumed that the show was an outside event.You could hear the music playing and the mc's talking
but I didn't see a stage so I asked a fan in attendance,"Where the stage was?".He looked at me as though I fell off the turnip
truck,he said the show was inside and they had already let in full capacity and that everyone else was on the outside getting
their blues on.I couldn't believe what I was witnessing,hundreds of people who couldn't get on the inside for the show but
were all posted on the outside and having more fun than the folks inside.Usually people would be mad and raising all kind
of trouble but I guess these fans knew what to expect on this juke joint tour.Arrive early you might get in but if you don't
the party still goes on.Amazing!
I made my way to the front entrance and I didn't know if I would be able to get in.WDIA
is truly a first class organization because Jackie Ward,The Promotions Director for Clear Channel Radio Memphis
WDIA-AM
* WHAL-FM had left word for me to enter once I arrived.I felt like a VIP for this event.As I entered the building it was packed
wall to wall,I mean standing room only.I made my way to the stage area where I saw some familar faces,my good friends Steve
Ladd(WDIA DJ),Jeff Lee(WDIA DJ),"The Gentle Giant Of Southern Soul" O.B. Buchana,The Legendary Mike Dobbins,recording artist
Sweet Angel and Bill and Anna Coday.I was greeted by Jackie Ward and my man Bobby O'Jay.I went to the bar and grabbed about
five bud lights because I wasn't about to try and work my way through this crowded place again.So with The Gentle Giant Of
Southern Soul and my WDIA posse on hand and a few cold bud lights to get me in a juke joint mood good people let me take you
on this blues and southern soul ride.
All the artist were doing tracks and with the place being so packed I wasn't
able to position myself like I normally do."The Duchess' was the first entertainer to hit the stage when I arrived.She has
toured as a background singer for J.Blackfoot,Archie Love and Lacee but she has now begin her career as a solo artist.She
got the crowd rocking with a remake of Marvin Sease's "Mr. Jody" which is entitled "Doin My Job".She must be popular on the
Memphis scene because they showed her a lot of love.She closed her performance with "It's My Time Now" and this diva really
did her thing.Her show was brief(this would be for all the artist on the night)but it was a terrific performance.She has an
impressive and stimulating voice that any Southern Soul fan can warm up to.The next performer was Dr. Feelgood Potts(Sheba
Potts-Wright father)and he got the juke joint rocking with "Home-Town Boogie" which is a good old foot stomping and hand clapping
cut.He closed his performance with the very popular "Make It Talk" which in my opinion should be ranked right up there with
Marvin Sease's "Candylicker" and Theodis Ealey's "Stand Up In It".Miz B was the next performer and she is another hometown
favorite that received a lot of love from the fans.She had the small stage area packed and dancing as she performed "Back
It Up".She closed her performance with "My Name Is $$$$",she made it clear to the fellas on this cut that to get with her
you got to be willing to pay the rent,the car note and put some bling bling around her neck.The ladies all loved this jam.The
next performer was "The Lil Giant Of Soul",Willie Clayton and he received a thunderous ovation led by my girl Jackie Ward
who now positioned herself front and center along with every other woman in the house.He sampled his hit "I Love Me Some You"
and "Beautiful".He had fun with a young lady from the crowd on "Wiggle".He closed his performance with his smash hit "Boom,Boom,Boom"
and the fans blew the roof off the place.It was still standing room only as the DJ had the crowd doing the Cupid Shuffle.I
couldn't move an inch by now.My good friend Betty Padgett was on next she rocked the house with her sultry voice.She gave
a soul stirring rendition of "Shine On Me" which really had the house up and jookin.She closed her performance with her big
hit "Never Coming Home".She allowed a lady from the audience to share the mic with her and she sounded so good harmonizing
with Betty Padgett.The last performer on the night was Ricky White.I saw him perform at a show last year and I was very impressed
with his vocals and I was glad to have the opportunity to see him perform again.He opened his performance with "Making Love
Like Back In The Day" and the ladies were all feeling him on this song.He closed his performance with "Ride My Pony" and was
joined on stage by a young lady from the audience and they got a big ovation as this southern soul cowgirl strapped on and
begin to ride his pony grown folk style(just use your imagination on that one).
I heard about WDIA's Juke Joint Tour
last year and all the festivities that surrounded it.I was determine to join them on this years tour.I think its wonderful
that this radio station provide the fans of this genre of music with these exciting shows at various venues in Memphis and
its all for free.I want to give a shout out to Bill and Anna Coday,Miz B,Lee Parker,Betty Padgett,Ricky White,Willie Clayton,O.B.
Buchana,Mike Dobbins and Sweet Angel.I enjoyed hanging out with all of you.I would like to give special thanks to Jackie Ward,Jeff
Lee,Steve Ladd,Bobby O'Jay and the rest of the WDIA staff in attendance who showed me so much love at this southern soul party.I
plan to ride out the entire tour with you all.To all the fans in the Memphis area I hope you all can come out and be a part
of this blues and southern soul party.For more information on the remainder of "The WDIA 2007 Juke Joint Tour" please go to
www.am1070wdia.com
The smaller the club the bigger the party and I had a blast at this juke joint and like always
I wanted to share it with you,the greatest fans in the world.Take care and MAY GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU.I'll be seeing you down
by the stage.
Big K9
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FIRST FRIDAYS ROCKS AT FRONT STREET
by Boogie
When Darryl E puts together a show you can bet
its gonna be a winner.
On the show was Guitar Slim
The Baby Boy records revue
Ms. Jody and Sir Charles Jones!!!
Desiree and LaLa were working point for Baby Boy and had secured us a choice table right down
front.
Special guests at our table included recording artist
Chuck Roberson,
Young Joe Tex II , independent artist AB, Baby Boy Artist Raine , her
manager,
Juke Joint Monday night television correspondent Carmen Boose and yours truly.
When we walked in the door and
saw the dance floor jam packed
My home boy VIRGIL K on the 1s
and 2s with Darryl E
I knew we were in for a party .
We missed Guitar Slims performance
, but were just in time for the special guest portion of the show.
first up was Young Joe Tex .
It takes a lot of nerve to follow a live
band with a track. , but as we were soon to learn its all in the line of duty for Young Joe Tex.
Joe greeted the crowd full of confidence and
told them of his pedigree Then in a commanding voice he asked
"ARE YALL READY TOPARTY"?
HELL YEAH
was The response from the near capacity crowd .Then as the speakers belted out a familiar
party anthem" I Got My Money I Got My Whiskey".
Young Joe Tex took Mel Waiters song and made it his very own,
He gave us and outstanding performance which included cuts from his new Cd titled Joe Tex II
.
We really got into "Shake It" which we all agree is gonna be
a Big record for Young Joe Tex.
Next on the
bill was Baby Boy artist RAINE who immediately took control of the show by establishing a close relationship with the audience.
RAINE continues to broaden her fan base every time she appears .
Apparently the men love what they saw and the women
love what they heard. Raine's message to the fellas "ask you woman what she likes" hit home .
Montgomery Alabama wont soon forget RAINE'S energy
filled performance.Let me interject here that Jerry The Iceman Jackson has got to be one of the funniest entertaining Masters
of Ceremonies this reporter has had the pleasure of enjoying.NEXT UP
Miss Jody. at first glance Ms. Jody appears
to be a nice looking middle aged lady maybe a school teacher or an insurance saleslady,
But when she takes the stage she transforms into
the most lascivious sensuous salacious woman on the circuit.
Her smooth moves and suggestive posture demands the
undivided attention of the entire audience , in addition to that Ms. Jody's Got Chops TOO,
YEAH she can really sing. As an extra added attraction
Ms Jody was joined on stage by her labelmate O.B. Buchanna Their duet of her current hit "Yo Dog Is About To Kill
My Cat" was a real crowd pleaser make sure you check out the pictures .My favorite segment was the finale
where Ms.Jody demonstrated her versatility with a ZYDECO flavored ditty called "Big Daddy Don't You Come"and of course
The Ice man Jerry Jackson "Being A Big Daddy had to get into the act. make sure you check out the pictures. We enjoyed Ms
Jody cant wait to check her out "one mo time"
After a brief intermission which was highlighted
by a packed dance floor doing the latest line dance "The Shuffle " by the way Where can I get a copy of that record?
Its Star Time- Its Star Time. GREGG KING has got the Sir Charles Jones Orchestra Sounding like A 20 Piece Band.
Not since the heyday of the TYRONE DAVIS PLATINUM
BAND have I heard any band make such a powerful opening statement .
When They Hit you could feel it from the bottom of your feet to the top of your head and
then you know that something very special was getting ready to happen.Sir Charles took the the stage
and proceeded to do what he does best ,that's entertain
while injecting himself into the personal lives of his audience and injecting the love thoughts and desires of his fans into
his life and performance. through smooth and vocals and almost sermon like interludes The King Of Southern Soul took
the audience on a trip through life with stories of love and loss.Friday, For Better or Worse, Just Cant Let Go ,in
rapid fire succession all turned into giant sing a longs with the audience hanging on every phrase, Then with James
Brown like control of the band The Young King Changed everythang with the movement of a hand and asked the crowd "What
Yall Wanna Hear" at that point he said I feel like doin some Al Green and like magic the band broke into "Love and Happiness"
at that point Charles was joined on stage by Reggie P, and O.B. Buchanna and they jammmed and jammmed and jammed.
The audience went crazy hundreds of people rushing
to the stage with their camera phones ready to capture this special happening It was crazy.
After The Jam Session Sir Charles introduced
his concert master Gregg King's mom to the crowd and everybody knew the next song was gonna be
" Take Care Of Mama"but then Charles let us
in on a personal situation he told us that his own mother"Ms. Blanche" was recuperating from surgery and that he was very
worried about her and he asked the audience to pray for her recovery as the emotion begin to grow throughout the venue,Sir
Charles said that he almost canceled the show because of his mothers condition but she told him to go on to Montgomery cause
the Good Lord Would take care of Her , you could feel the love and compassion the fans had for the Young King as he began
to sing .
He sang the first verse with compassion still growing
and when he got to the bridge he stopped and said I'm dedicating this song to my mama if she were hear I would
tell her that I as of tonight IVE GIVEN MY LIFE TO JESUS CHRIST !!!!!! Then He Dropped The Microphone and walked
of the stage !! THE CROWD WENT WILD Everybody WAS- SCREAMING SOME WERE CRYING -SOME WERE APPLAUDING- then came the chanting
Sir Charles, Sir Charles, Sir Charles Sir Charles.
The only way the crowd could be satisfied was for
The King to come back out on stage then from backstage we he started the finale with ' Is Anybody Lonely
'
The crowd went wild again As Sir Charles answered
the Curtain with his Biggest Hit was truly a remarkable happening. Something tells me there gonna be more to this
story Stay Tuned.
| Click here to see pictures |
|
BIG FUN IN MOBILE
by Boogie
The stars turned out Saturday night for Bama recording artists' CoCo's Album release party.
The
party took place at the new Delta House of Blues on water street in Mobile. First let me say
this is a world class juke joint spacious comfortable and scenic.the staff was friendly and
accommodating. CoCo Put on a Hell of a spread of real food no finger sandwiches
the baked
ham was a big favorite. upon my arrival i was ushered to the exclusive VIP section upstairs
The
first person I saw was my Good Buddy Funky Larry Jones of the Soul and Blues Report.
who introduced me to his lovely date
Ms.Jennelle Larry you are truly blessed.Also in attendence was ABNs Beverly MsDowell, Veteran Broadcast Mike Marlow and many
others.
also chillin in the VIP Lounge was Tee recording artist Dee Dee Starz who was having a very
good time.
Soon it was show time first up was Mobile's on Ray Charles a very talented performer who had
did a number of Ray Charles tunes with perfection the resemblance is remarkable! Bama recording
artist Rufus G" the man with the Barry White pipes" was next was next Rufus had the ladies swooning with his deep baritone
melodic presentation.Up next was Shonn Marshall who rocked the house with his latest release Mr. Wrong.Andre Lee was up next
who
performed a set of his old and some of his new product Andre did an unreleased cut called Ive Been
Hurt which I predict is gonna be his biggest hit to date This jam is BAADDDDD!!!!!!
and Andre delivered it with Soul and
Conviction everybody agreed This ones gonna be Da Bomb
Remember "Boogie Told Cha".Next up was the Singing comedian POONANNY
who cracked the crowd up with his stand up act from his soon to be released comedy CD. The Lady of the Night took the stage
next and rocked the crowd with an" All The Way Live" performance. thanks CoCo for including my favorite My Man My Boo
in your set. We saw Omar Cunningham two years ago in Greenwood at Mr. Ruben Hughes show that was an outstanding performance
But Omar has been working on his stage presence and it showed. Omar Worked the entire room and kept the party jamminOmar has
definitely taken his show to the next level. Last but not least was Jeff Floyd who rocked the house as only he can do.
It was a tremendous evening Thanks to Big Joe, Carien, Cheryl, Sara and the staff of the Delta Blues house for your hospitality
Thanks to Sylvester Parsons, CoCo and the Bama Records family for an outstanding evening we look forward to the next one.
Terry Cummings Has Arrived
by Kim Culver
Recently retired, veteran NBA player Terry Cummings has proved the point; consistency and
constancy scores! One of only eight players in NBA history to play 18 years or more (Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Robert Parish, Moses
Malone, James Edwards, Tree Rollins, Rick Mahorn, Danny Shayes, Herb Williams), Terry Cummings ranks 17th in NBA history in
games played (1,183 career games). The 6-foot-9, 250-pound forward stands in 29th place in NBA history in points scored (19,460)
and 22nd in field goals made (8,045). These facts alone were enough to make us very excited about the opportunity
to cover the Listening party for the new Terry Cummings Music Project.
I t was excellent weather for a drive to the ATL The party took place at the
sumptuous
Park Tavern and was hosted by Tommy Ford from "Martin" and yes ladies Tommy is as fine in person as he
is on TV.
Danielle Cummings VP operations of Cummings
Entertainment Group who by the way is Terry's Sister
and Director of marketing Renee Atkins did an excellent job in setting the stage for this outstanding event.
Guest were treated to massages by Di-ISIS Egyptian Spa.
on display were beautiful art pieces by Lydell Martin
(vases with faces)
The highlight of the evening came when the man of the hour serenaded the crowd
with selections from his
debut CD."Nothing Is What It Seems. My favorites were
" All I Want"
"Butterflies",
" Marvin's Vibe" then
and
"To Serve you Lord"
this was an outstanding entertainment as well as cultural event
Look out music world Terry Cummings
has arrived and the industry won't be the same
Thanks to Danielle, Renee Allen Johnston "The Music Specialist. and Terry
Cummings for an evening I wont soon forget
Click here to jump to The Terry Cummings Web Site
The scene was the Metropolitan Elks Lodge In Meridian Mississippi.
The occasion was the taping of The Soultrax television show hosted by Carmen Boose
As we arrived we noticed lots of excitement the reason being DR Graham of FM 102.1 was doing a live
remote from the lodge.
the Elks lodge had been transformed into a lvely television set. Sylvester Parson and his professional television
production crew were on thhe scene with the latest technology .apprearing would
Lenny Williams at The Treasure Chest Casino
by Carmen Boose.
Well, Its Mardi Gras so I jumped at the opportunity to go to New Orleans to cover Lenny Williams at the Treasure Chest
Casino for The Boogie Report.
The Traffic during Mardi Gras is unreal it seamed like everyone in the entire state was on the road going to the parades.
Joe Pete "our driver" took every short cut he knew and we finally arrived at the Treasure Chest which is located in Kenner
at the end of Williams Street on the lake.
. When we arrived "a little late" we noticed the show had already begun. Lionel Robinson was on stage with his rendition
of the old school sounds. We first met Lionel when he was the concert master for The Love Doctor. Lionel held the jammed pack
room spellbound with a montage of Classic Soul Hits from Percy Sledge's "When a man loves a woman, to" TheTemptations "My
Girl" and the O'Jays "Family Reunion." Lionel's performance filled the room with nonstop ovations. On to the introduction
of the band members on Bass the multitalented (cancer) Kenny Jones...from Washington State and on the Keyboard the amazing
style of (Virgo) Matt Vinson it's no surprise why from1993-1997 they were the band behind Lenny Williams, Dennis Edward's,
Jones Girls and Millie Jackson just to name a few...on Guitar Roy "Dollar Bill" Joseph, the newest member to the Lionel Robinson
band for 5 months with incredible beats was Mike Travis (Aries) as though the music didn't capture the audiences attention
enough Southern University graduate Tyrone Norwood's (Leo) magical fingers was the second half of the keyboard section, this
was real treat watching the two synchronize their talents, and last but surely not least a man who is no stranger to the world
of music Mr. Lionel Robinson (Leo) lead vocals, Robinson's, melodic sounds made you feel every note bring back memories that
you'd want to hold on to, the audience was receptive to his dazzling showmanship and outstanding performance.
Lenny Williams, opens the show with "This Time It's Real" into "Midnight Girl" from the start Lenny reels the audience
in with classic hits, which included the old Hall & Oates anthem "Sarah Smile" this one brought the crowd to their feet.
When Lenny tapped into 1973 back in the Tower of Power days with a tune written by he and Johnny "Guitar" Watson "So Very
Hard To Go" the excitement filled the room, this hit had everybody singing and dancing, the hits kept coming with (William
DeVaughn) "Just Be Thankful" where even there was audience participation on the hook ladies versus the men YOU KNOW THE LADIES
TOOK THE FLOOR:) up next was an amazing blues medley with "Rock Me All Night Long" (BB King), "Night Time Is The Right Time"
and "Stoop Down Baby" Lenny touched on one of my favorite songs, which sold 16 million copies in 1986 a duet with Kenny G
featuring the sultry vocal sounds of Lenny Williams "Don't Make Me Wait For Love" into "Ooh Baby Baby" (Smokey Robinson) "Ain't
too Proud To Beg" (temptations), "I'll Be Around" and "Let's Do The Twist" (chubby checker) were among the final medley before
the last song of the evening, the song that everyone was waiting the Lenny Williams Anthem "Cause I Love You" brought lovers
together as he crooned this hit that will always be a favorite to all, The audience was so charged Lenny had to make two curtain
calls he left the crowd satisfied but still wanting more. Make sure to check out Lenny Williams new CD on Thump Records MY
WAY, and be sure to check out Lenny when he comes to a venue near you .You will be glad you did.Thank you Boogie I look forward
to my next assignment
Theodis Ealey Live at Studio 201
Lafayette Louisiana
The Theodis Ealey "Stand Up In It " Review swept into Lafayette La.
Friday night after hitting Lake Charles like a hurricane the night before. The Scene was the
luxurious Studio 201
One of the most spacious and modern venues in the South.
Tommy C of MAGIC 104.7 Welcomed the near capacity crowd and kept the pre show going smoothly
with lots of wit and Jammin Southern Soul Music.
 Veteran frontman Mack Davis opens up the show with style and class.Mack masterfully presents two cuts from his current Cd Big Dog gets the crowd to rockin Then its on to one of my favorites
the title Cut from the Better Man Cd Mack Closes his set with a new cut soon be released The Big Dog Slide which
gets the crowd out of their seats.Up next is Andre Lee
Andre Lee is one of the new crop of Southern Soul crooners.after paying his dues in the Sir
Charles Jones Family andre has ventured out on his on and is making a name for himself.
Andre opened up his set with a cut from his Cd
"Simply Dre" with Special Lady followed by Got To Get Away
then on into his Big hit Pony Ride where he is joined on stage by ladies from the audience
Doing The PONY RIDE.
`All and all The pre show was exciting and entertaining but all through out the night the buzz
was brang on the Stand Up In It Man- Bring On Theodis Ealey. The crowd was not gonna
be disapointed cause immediately after the Andre's set.Mack
Davis was back onstage Bringing on the band. As always Mack Does a tremendous job
of getting the crowd ready for the star of the show . with the funkiest version of the blues standard "Lover Of
Mine "The StandUp In It band Shows That they are second to no band in the land The sound is bright and crisp the
rhythm section is tight as a fat girls girdle you cant help but notice the Reverned Linwood Cherry Whip those drums like they
stole something.Sistah BJ Miller on the Key Boards all IN The Mix that makes you wanna jump up and move somethin.Theodis
Ealeys Performance is the most energetic of any BLUESMAN that comes to mind.He jumps from genre to genre to let everybody
know that he is as comfortable jammin the Isley Brother"FIGHT THE POWER" as he is FUNKIN Jr. Parkers" DRIVIN WHEEL" Not
only does he glide smoothly from Rock To Soul to POP and Blues He Takes everybody in the club with him as he Play and
moves all over the club to the table to the bar Steady Jammin.First interlude Theodis
gives us a brief history of how he got where he is he took us back to Sibley and Natchez
Mississippi
Where He teased the crowd by offering to take them to the "HOLE IN THE WALL" not the Mel
Waiters Hole In the Wall But The Hole In The wall where he taunts and teases the audience with
The Real Blues Riff reminding us of Johnny Lee Hooker That start low and grew and grew
and exploded into Jimmy Reeds "LET IT ROLL"
OH YEAH THE YOUNGSTAS DUGIT TOO!!
 SECOND INTERLUDE
THEODIS EALEY TAKES TIME OUT TO
TO EXPRESS HOW IMPORTANT THE FAMILY ATMOPHERE IS TO THE SUCCESS OF HIS GROUP. AT THIS
POINT HE INTRODUCES BJ MILLER.
ITS HARD FOR A WOMAN TO WIN OVER A MOSTLY FEMALE AUDIENCE WHO CAME OUT MAINLY TO SEE
A MALE HEADLINER ,BUT THATS NOT THE CASE WITH BJ MILLER.
BJ KNOCKED THEIR SOCKS OF WITH HER MUSICIANSHIP AND OVERALL PROFESSIONAAL PRESENTATION
SHE CAME ON WITH HER TRADEMARK 'GOING TO KANSAS CITY'
SHOWED OUT ON THE KEYBOARDS AT THE BRIDGE -THEN THEY TOOK IT TO THE SECOND MOVEMENT
WHERE SHE BLEW EM AWAY WITH HER TROMBONE SOLO. THE MEN WERE STUNNED WITH THIER MOUTHS HANGING
OPEN- AND THE WOMEN WERE JUMPIN UP AND DOWN HOLLERIN YOU GO GIRL
THE FINALE
WHEN THE BAND PLAYED THE FIRST FOUR NOTES OF ;STAND UP IN IT' THE CROWD WENT
WILD THE DANCE FLOOR FILLED UP PEOPLE DANCED IN THEIR SEATS THIS WAS THE PART I WAS WAITNG ON TOO CAUSE IN A RADIO STATION
INTERVIEW EARLIER THEODIS HAD PROMISED THAT HE WOULD GIVE US STEP BY STEP INSTRUCTION ON HOW TO STAND UP IN IT.
AND HE DID HETOLD US IN THE LYRICS OF STAND UP IN IT PART TWO WHERE HE
CAME HOME ONE NIGHT AFTER PARTYING HE SAID HE HAD BEEN DRINKING E&J WELL iLL LEAVE IT RIGHT THERE BUT
IT IS POSSIBLE TO STAND UP IN IT AND IF YOU WANT TO KNOW HOW I SUGGEST YOU CATCH THE STAND UP IN IT TOUR COMING TO A TOWN NEAR
YOU.
CHECK THE WEBSITE OUT FOR TOUR SCHEDULE.
BB KING AT THE CALVIN THEATRE
A completely sold out
crowd squeezed into the Calvin Theater
Sunday night for a
glimpse of royalty - blues royalty.
Indeed, B.B. King,
the 78-year-old reigning king of the electric
blues received a royal
welcome from some 1,300 adoring fans.
But the legend quickly
proved song after song that he was no
high and mighty aristocrat,
but a musical man of the people
during his excellent
1-hour and 50-minute set.
After The B.B. King
Blues Band warmed the crowd up with a
couple of jazzy instrumentals,
the icon took a seat on his throne -
center stage, front.
The diabetic septuagenarian
made no apologies for having to sit
for his entire 13-song
performance saying, "I'm not 19 anymore.
I'm old enough that
I can sit down if I want to." He then joked, "I've
got bad knees, a bad
back and even a bad head - I can't
remember anything!"
He couldn't have been
more wrong. He hadn't forgotten his
irresistible charm,
jovial swagger, nuanced singing or bent
guitar playing as he
opened his old-fashioned blues set with a
rowdy performance of
"I'll Survive" quickly followed with "Bad
Case of Love."
Next, he tore into
the ballad "I Need You," a fine aching ballad off
of his 2003 release
"Reflections." Though unable to get up and
dance, King shook his
thing in his seat, spreading joy and
humor to the entire
audience. Perhaps looking forward to his
brief break in touring
before crossing the globe for a string of
sets in Russia, King was in fine form, cracking jokes and
grinning ear to ear
all evening.
To the audience's delight,
King was sure to touch on most of his
classics including
a fiercely entertaining rendition of his concert
staple "Caldonia,"
and perfect performance of the traditional
blues classic "I've
Got Mind to Give Up Living."
Later, King teased
the crowd with a bit of "Nobody Loves Me But
My Mother (And Even
She Might Be Jivin')" a track he wrote for his
excellent 1970 release
"Indianola Mississippi Seeds" before
leading into a delightful
take of his trademark "How Blue Can
You Get?"
King continued to thrill
the crowd with a wonderful performance
of "Key to the Highway,"
Big Bill Broonzy's classic song of
personal liberation,
and then enjoyed a fun call and response
exchanged with the
audience on his own classic "Rock Me
Baby."
But of course, no King
concert would be complete without a
performance of "The
Thrill is Gone," the one song (if you had to
pick just one) most
often associated with the king of the blues.
"I'm gonna do this
'til I die, folks," assured King.
Listening to his terrific
set closing performance of, "I Know You
Don't Love Me Anymore"
from his 2000 Release "Makin' Love Is
Good for You," one
can only hope that he'll be around for a long,
long time.
MEL WAITERS at THE ATRIUM
If you weren't at the ATRIUM Friday nite, you missed a fantastic
show ... MEL WAITERS was at his BEST!!! (I saw him at both Huntsville
and Columbus last month). Although the
weather may account for the
low attendance, you missed a GREAT performance by MEL WAITERS and his
REVUE. The
fact that he wasn't a part of a festival line-up and
restricted to performing only a few songs, he had time to mingle
in
the audience and made you feel he was genuine and wanted everyone to
enjoy the show. He encouraged folk to
get up (I think everybody was
on their feet dancing on "Hole In The Wall" and "Got My Whiskey") and
sing along with
him. Mz Mary (his sister/background singer)stepped
out and performed with the band on a couple of number.
Joe and Mel
did the dueling "old school/new school" segment. In my opinion
there's no winner or loser because
they are both FANTASTIC in their
respective deliveries ... Joe has "Luther" for sure. I cannot forget
to mention
his "Inspirational" segment ... as is usual Mel Waiters
sings "How I Made It" and reflects on his "Big Mama's" teachings
about keeping GOD in his life ... I always love this part. I can
agree with him when he say that although he
sings R&B for a living he
has JESUS all in his life and he proves that with his testimony.
..................................................................
The Downhome Blues Festival
by Ms Honey
I went to the 14th Annual Alabama Downhome Blues Festival on
Saturday,
in Huntsville, Alabama. Although I'd heard about it and
wanted to go for the last few years, I made up my mind this
year to
go even if I had to go by myself. I have to admit that I was a
little hesitant about going alone, but
I have to recognize that I'm
SINGLE and I can't wait around on someone else to want to do what I
want to do in order
to have someone accompany me ... that's just my
philosophy and I believe that "I can do all things thru CHRIST who
strengthens
me"... so I headed to HUNTSVILLE, AL alone. I met some
wonderful folk, enjoyed a GREAT show and arrived at my next
destination safely (I really don't like traveling on holiday
weekends), which was the 1st Memorial Day Blues Festival
in Columbus,
GA (my hometown).
The HUNTSVILLE Festival opened with a guy named T.J. Hooker who
claims to be a son of Johnnie Taylor (I think there are about 6 of
them out there). Yes he did perform JT's music
and says he'll have a
cd released soon. I wasn't impressed with his performance. Mz Pat
Brown was next
and she was GREAT ... I love several of her
songs, "Two Week Notice", "99%", "Trapped", "Equal Opportunity" and
her
new cd, "New Tricks" appears to be worth purchasing. X-MAN was
next and he's something else! Other than his performance
of "CROWN"
(and he should really be getting paid for that one ... black folk
drink that stuff), he's a bit vulgar
for me (and I consider myself
very broadminded)! You wouldn't think that kids would be at the
festival, but
they were and certainly didn't need to see his act. I
think promoters should make it clear that Blues Festivals are "FOR
GROWN FOLKS". The Mel Waiter's Show was next. I say "Show" because
in addition to Mel Waiters, his sister, Mz
Mary and the other backup
singer (don't know her name) and the horn player are talented
performers. I always
love when they do the inspirational segment and
it speaks volumes to me that he's strong enough to include it as a
part
of his act ... major props to Mel Waiters (Did I mention that
other folk are trying to imitate him; i.e. Willie
Clayton and even
Marvin Sease). Of course he did his "Hit It & Quit It", "Got My
Whiskey" and the infamous
"Hole in the Wall" YES, Mel Waiters is a
favorite of mine ... I love the blonde hair!!! And while it's
entertaining,
the "battle of song" between Mel and the guy in the
band is getting old ... It's ok for the young man to get some
exposure,
but I want to hear Mel perform some ballads. Willie
Clayton was next and of course had a good performance, but ticked
me
off by saying his performance henged on the audience's enthuiaism
because he'd already been paid and he could leave
at any time. I
thought that was in poor taste, even if he felt that way. It's his
responsibility to make
every performance his BEST because there just
might be someone out there that hadn't heard of Willie Clayton
before.
I love his music ("I Love Me Some You", "Drowning In The Sea
of Love", "Three People In My Bed") and own several of his
cds, but
didn't like his attitude, but then I usually have a problem
with "short men" (hahaha). He also threaten
to leave the stage
because a guy was video taping him. By the time Marvin Sease came
out, folk had left and
I was ready to go because it was cold, but I
did hear him do my favorite "Please Take Me", "Do You Qualify" and of
course
"Candylicker". It was an easy nite for him. Oh, the MCs
(local djs) were very good, they were entertaining and creative
with
prize give-aways to keep things lively. I'll definitely be making
plans to attend another year too. Big
"UPS" to Mr. Lee Parker, who
brings this festival each year.
------------------------------------------------
ON THE TOWN IN ATLANTA
by Ms.Honey Lou
When you say it you're describing O.B. Buchana's intoductory
performance
last Friday nite at the ATRIUM in Atlanta. I think that
everyone who saw it will remember his name. It was
his first time
appearing in HOTLANTA, but I don't think it'll be his last!
Initially I didn't feel it was a
good idea to have him on the same
show with the legendary Bobby 'Blue' Bland, but as it turned out he
was GREAT, even
Mr. Bland complimented him. He recognized the
position he was in and he took the show to a whole new level. O.B.
joked
that he knew folk were surprised that he was a young man
singing about such mature blues subjects. He had the folk up
shouting
O.B., O.B. after he left the stage. He did a cut from a soon to be
released cd (1st of June), "Daddy,
I Love You" which was very
dramatical (I think he lost his father last year). In addition to my
favorite, "I Can't
Choose", he did "Backdoor Lover","I Got
Caught", "The Booty Scoot", "It's Over" and "Love & Happiness" He
literally
brought the house down when he did "Let's Get Drunk" and
was pouring Crown Royal in audience members cups (HAHAHA). He
was I-N-
C-R-E-D-I-B-L-E, EXUBERANT AND STIMULATING!!!I was so very proud of
him. If I sound a little bias, most of
you already know that I am
because he's one of my babies (young Southern Soul men) (SMILE) Don't
miss an opportunity
to see him.
Bobbie 'Blue' Bland was wonderful. He has an endless repertoire
and
he could perform for hours. However, he's been doing it so long that
he has it timed to precisely an hour ...
no one could say they were
disappointed because except for his latest cd, he did a little old,
old, a little not so
long ago and some standards like "Members Only",
St James Infirmary, "As Soon As The Weather Breaks", "Further On Up
The
Road", "Hurt Before You Heal", and "I Pity The Fool". And I
could go on. He's getting older and if you have
a chance to see him,
by all means do
BLUES IN THE ALLEY, UNDERGROUND ATLANTA
by Ms.Honey Lou
I had the opportunity to check out this night spot the other weekend, compliments of "Deacon
Blues", FM 91.9, Saturday morning blues show host. The club is a very nice venue and would be a wonderful place to showcase
some of the HOT SOUTHERNSOUL
men/women! (Of course, myopinion).
The "Deacon" and his Holy Smoke Band are the entertainment
on Saturday nights. Initially
I thought it was not a good night to be there (Atlanta Falcons were in the playoff against Green Bay and it was freezing outside);
however, it was a greatexperience because it was like the band was playing to me; they played as if the place was packed (it
was far from it!!!). And in between sets they blast good recorded blues. Atlanta's own blues artist Chick Willis has some
kind of affiliation with the club, but he wasn't there that night.
They offer a FREE Sunday afternoon 'Open Jam Session' from 5pm-9pm. Check it out when
you're in Atlanta.
Ms.Honey is Moderator of the down home Blues group at yahoo
Feel Free to check us out and join at:
 The Love Doctor In Columbus Georgia
by Sweetness
The Love Doctor really got the crowd going wild at the First Annual Memoral Day Festival in Columbus, Georgia.
The Love Doctor accompanied by the Chocolate Buttermilk Band out of Fayetteville, North Carolina performed
many songs off of his current CD. Everyone could feel the electricity in the air when he performed "Slow Rollin". There
was not a person left in their seat. I can truly say I enjoyed the concert very much and I left a true fan of the Love Doctor.
Tyrone Davis In Columbus Georgia
I was blown away by the Tyrone Davis and the Platinum Band at the first All Star Memorial Day festival in Columbus,
Ga. I waited half the night for the star to hit the stage but when he hit he hit it hard Tyrone was dressed in all white
looking good and he started with can I tip toe in the bedroom and sung one I of my all time favorite Baby can I change my
mind. And when he opened the mike on Kiss you were I miss you the crowd went wild I can truely
say that was one of the best performance I have seen Tyrone do in a long time it was great. It was truly worth the wait.
BB King In Birmingham
By Andrew
Tell everybody Andrew's back in town. I gotta dollar an' a quarter and
I'm raring to clown! But don't let nobody play
me cheap I got I got
fifty cents more than I'm gonna keep!
First let me say there are only two Blues artists I ever wanted to see
in concert; Bobby "Blue" Bland and B.B. King.
Well I've had the
pleasure of seeing Bobby in concert twice and just last night I
travelled to Birmingham, AL from Dallas
(Georgia that is) to see B.B.
in concert. You know the only thing that would or could be better than
seeing either in
concert is seeing them in concert together, more on
that later.
B.B. King proves to be the consummate performer. At the age of 77 he
still plays hard. He sat during the concert and
even had comments
about that, saying about half way though the show, "I know some of you
out there thinking 'poor old
B.B. done got too old to stand up and
play' and to you I say you right. When you been around as long as he
has (77 years
old) you'd set down too." But Mr. King made it clear
that he still liked to boogey and says he still shakes it, just not
as
hard because at his age something is liable to fall off!
The show was held at the Alabama Theater in downtown Birmingham, it is
a magnificent facility, one that I paid no
attention to when I lived
there for two years. It was a packed house eventually, although when
the show started there
were a considerable number of seats open. I
think most folks would just think it was a CPT issue, but it was not
as
the house was mostly our brethren that are lighter on melanin. The
support by the Black community was sorta disappointing
but the makeup
of the audience just better reinforced the fact Blues transcends all
social boundaries.
B.B. King Blues Band opened the show with an excellent performance,
showcasing their vast talents. All were extremely
talented but two
stood out; the guitar player, who had some mad skills and cahonies of
steel to play with The Undisputed
King of the Blues. And my man was
good, very good. The other person that caught my attention was the
band's director
and lead horn, he is called Boogaloo, cause he
can,
the man dances hard and if you are like me and are pleasingly plump,
as
he was, you know that is not an easy task. What was more striking
about him is that he sorta resembled comedian Bruce Bruce,
sure it was
a matter of size. Since mentioned the lead horn man, I can tell you
the guys are great, but they don't really
hold a comparison to
Bobby's
horns.
B.B. opened the show with "Let The Good Times Roll" hence my
opening.
He sang many many familiar tunes that anybody
could easily recognize
as being his. At any rate it was a top notch show that one would think
just couldn't be beat.
I always figured it would be like drinking
top
shelf liquor to see him in concert and I can tell you it was even
better
than imagined. I don't think I stopped smiling until I had
made
the hour and half drive home.
But you know there is one thing that would just make my year, seeing
Bobby and B.B. together in concert, well on Thursday,
February 27th,
at 8pm they will be appearing together in Greenville, SC at the Peace
Center and guess who will be sitting
in the audience? No not DJ Krip,
even though he should have come and gone with me, but yours truly! I
don't care if
I ever attend another Blues concert because come
Thursday night I will be content to have seen the two of if not the
greatest
Blues artist to have ever graced this earth.
........................................................................
 Hi Boogie,
I am happy to hear Funky Larry is recouperating swiftly. He is da man behind the soul and blues report.
Keep your chin up Larry we have placed prayers on the alter for you.
In other news, Boogie, Papa Rock had a bang up anniversary party at the Bay City Blues Club in Pensacola. It was awesome.
In attendance were Robert "Smokehouse" Moore, Jeff Floyd and Lee Fields. Your elegant commedian and air personality for 98.3
WDLT FM, yours truly , Beverly McDowell served as emcee. The crowd was ready to party and laugh and we took the house.
Robert Henderson, Mike Austin, Alex Gavin were all there to wish Papa Rock well. If my memory serves me correctly Papa Rock
has been in the business of radio for about 47 years. And the old gent is still doing it and doing it well. Once again lets
all give Papa Rock a hand for hanging in there. Funky Larry Jones we await your return. See ya guys and dolls.
Beverly McDowell
98.3 WDLT FM Mobile
 Floyd Taylor and Marvin Sease in St Louis......
by Ms.Lee
I've been running back and forth, so it's been a while since I had a chance to attend a blues show. However, on
January 10, I went to see Marvin Sease and Floyd Taylor at Club 54 in St. Louis. This makes the third time I've seen
Floyd since September 2000. Where I first saw him in Dallas Texas. When he stepped out on the stage with the Taylor
Made band playing "Disco Lady" I had to do a double take, for a minute, I thought Johnnie was back. The next time I
saw Floyd was at The Ambassador in St. Louis, his act had a gospel flair. At Club 54 it became apparent that while Floyd
was Johnnie Taylor's son, he is definitely not Johnnie Taylor. something which Floyd seemed to have more problem with than
the audience. Club 54 is a BLUES CLUB. The patrons not only love the blues, but they know the blues. And
on January 10, 2003, Floyd Taylor was not the blues. Floyd was more concerned with people separating him from his father,
which was easy to do. Johnnie Taylor is missed, not only by his family, friends and fans. But also by the music
industry. His contribution to music goes deeper than many of us realized during his lifetime. We love him and
still love his music. Johnnie's fans were excited to see his son. Johnnie's fans were thrilled to see his son.
Johnnie's fans were there for his son. People bought Floyd Taylor's, Legacy CD, some because he was Johnnie's son and
some because it's a very very good CD. Legacy is giving Floyd Taylor his own fans, not only his father's, but his.
The material is good and that's what the people came to Club 54 on January 10, 2003, to hear. No one came to hear Floyd
Taylor give them a lecture of how they were there thinking about his father and not there for him. Well, many may have
come because of the Taylor name. But many also came because of the Legacy recording. Floyd Taylor needs to give
people a chance to respect him and enjoy his performance for him and not his heritage.
Marvin Sease came out and did what Marvin does best. MAKE THE PEOPLE HAPPY!!!! and, that just what he did.
Marvin Sease has a way of making the new sound good and the old sound better. He sang several songs from his new CD,
which many of the people sitting around me said they either already had or were going to purchase. Marvin let
the audience know that he is thankful to his fans and to JESUS for his career. It is a pleasure to see blues artists
remember where they came from and be aware of how fast they can go back there if they don't give thanks to the right people.
Marvin is a performer who can teach a lot to the young upcoming blues artists of today. When Marvin did his signature
song "Candy Licker," he rocked the house. No matter how many times he sings "Candy Licker," it sounds like the first
time. WE LOVE YOU MARVIN!!!
On Sunday, January 12, 2003, I attended the funeral of Ms. Lizzie Brown, the mother of Shirley Brown. This
was a small lady who had a tremendous impact on her daughter's career. It was apparent that JESUS was with Shirley
as she sang for her mother, with nothing but love. God is so good!! Ms. Lizzie will be missed not only by
her family but by her church family, friends, relatives and anyone who had an opportunity to meet her. I don't know
Shirley Brown, but anyone who ever met her mother knew, Ms. Lizzie is the real star, for now she truly is in "Soul Heaven"/
Take care Boogie, Ms. Lee
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