The Blues Are Alive!

They might not believe it at the  Grammy Awards, but I witnessed this original American Art Form thriving two weeks ago here in Memphis, TN.

Last year, the National Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences (NARAS), also known as the Recording Academy, the largest non-profit association of musicians, producers and other recording professionals in the U.S., announced that they would eliminate almost one-third of its categories from Grammy consideration, including Native American, Cajun, Hawaiian, Traditional World Music, Gospel, and Latin Jazz, to name a few.  In addition, they combined the Traditional and Contemporary Blues category into one category entitled, Blues.

ONE-THIRD of the categories!

The reasoning for these cuts and the reaction to them is fodder for another time, as this article is to celebrate the musical art form that most of the categories still awarded derived from…THE BLUES.

Memphis, TN came alive with the blues from around the world for 5 days from January 31 through April 4th this year. The International Blues Challenge is the event that, each year, fortifies the passion so many have from around the world.

Largest IBC Ever – More Acts, More Fans

First Time Entrants From Around The World

Yes, I said The Philippines. Bleu Rascals, a group in the Youth Showcase traveled to Memphis marking the first for this country. First time countries also included South Africa, Spain and Switzerland. A total of 16 countries were represented.

Some interesting story-lines also came to light during those five days. Big Daddy Wilson was in Memphis representing the Baltic Blues Society. An ex-patriot who took up residence in Germany in his early 20’s, Big Daddy was back in America for the first time in years. The Blues Are Alive!

To Purchase Big Daddy’s CD, Click it!

The lads from Bleu Rascal were so energetic in their love of the Blues. As they sat and spoke with me the energy in the room was electric. The Blues Are Alive!

Nick Hern Band represented the Topeka Blues Society in the Challenge this year.  For the last three years Nick and his brother Mike have been in the Youth Showcase.  Each year developing more skills, more talent and more finesse

With Johnny Rieger Band representing the Baltic Blues in the Band Challenge

to finally make the challenge as competitors and they were raring to hit the stage and prove their worth. The Blues Are Alive!

And do not think these musicians were there to walk away with the top prize. Of course, they all had dreams in their head, but to a person the mantra I heard all week was, “I would come back here even if I was not competing. The friendships I have made, the industry connections I am making, the music I am hearing, this is what the International Blues Challenge is about”.

And there were bands and artists there who were not competing, but doing those other things. I met a young man by the name of Tallan Noble Latz who traveled with his dad from Wisconsin to just be on Beale that week. A 12-year old guitar wiz, Tallan has already appeared on the TV show America’s Got Talent, played with Les Paul and is releasing his first album very soon. The Blues Are Alive!

A more mature musician, Ms. Lucy Hammond, decided to come to Memphis at the last moment loaded down with 200 CDs that she vowed would not go back to Portland with her. She networked, sang at some jams and spent the week, to paraphrase Marc Cohen “Walking with her feet ten feet off of Beale”. The Blues Are Alive!

Congratulations to every single musician who made it to Memphis to compete.  You were all winners before you even set foot onto Beale Street.

Special congratulations to The WIRED! Band for their winning the Band Challenge and to Ray Bonneville for his win in the Solo/Duo Challenge.  Enjoy the whirlwind which will be your 2012!

To purchase Ray’s CD-Click it!

Yes folks…The Blues Are Alive and if you need proof, book yourself a room in Memphis, TN for next year’s International Blues Challenge (January 29 – February 2) and come see for yourself!

If you need more proof sooner, you can also check out all the podcasts from this year. And I will be doing this all again next year!

One last comment on The Grammy Awards…maybe…just maybe the music business has decided to once again take itself seriously.

Adele winning the 6 Grammy’s serves as a hopeful sign that the music is going to be important once again.

Live shows which consist of more dancing than live singing could possibly be over …

OK, I don’t think this is the end to the blandness and trickery that has been popular music for so many years, but one can hope…

(Memphis, Tennessee) With each succeeding year, the IBC improves in both scope sheer size and also quality. Above photo from Hammond Workshop, Joe Boogie, featured guest Tullie Brae, and Helge “Nick” Nickel of Bluesfest Eutin, Germany.

This year’s big Blues week was highlighted by some cool new stuff:

Bigger and better… Hammond Organ Workshop

This year featured a bigger band, a bigger show and a great turnout of keyboard players and Blues fans. Four Roses Bourbon, Amro Music and American Blues News sponsored the shows. The day began with a Fox 13 television performance by this year’s featured guest, Tullie Brae who leads her band the Medicine Man Review. The Hammond Organ Workshop was the first in what has expanded to IBC clinics for other instruments.

Tullie Brae and the author

Memphis Mike Forrest of the Wampus Cats and Joe Boogie

The new fits well with the old…Hammond SK-1 in stereo powered speakers with the classic C-3 and Leslie.

 American Blues News will return again next year for the 3rd Annual IBC Hammond Workshop.

2012 Planet Earth Complex Celebrity Jam

This year’s jam, the 2nd year Jerry Williams of Planet Earth Complex has produced the show, was a tremendous outpouring of talent and music professionals, a nice counterpoint to the regular IBC competition which provides literally hundreds of performances throughout the week. The jam began at 9:30 PM and did not end until about 4 AM, with waves of great performances and Tullie Brae and band backing up the various visiting artists who had travelled to Memphis for this big week of events.

our friend Eddie “Devil Boy” Turner mesmerizes the crowd.

If the IBC were not a big enough draw in and of itself, this jam really took the cake. Seven solid hours of music pros doing what they do best backed up with great studio musicians and other touring artists.  It was the highlight of a tremendous week of great performances. Thanks to Planet Earth Complex, Jerry Williams, Dan Gardner of Four Roses Bourbon, our kind sponsor of the arts, and the Blues City Cafe Band Box.

Doc Samba

Tullie Brae

 Hot Cleaveland

Tullie Brae headlines the show, rocks the house and is followed by a tremendous parade of talent until 4 AM.  It was one hell of a night of great music, Four Roses Bourbon and a houseful of friends and fellow music fanatics. The house was packed full of appreciative fans all the way until the close at 4 AM!

Eddie Turner

Vinny Marini’s live day and night internet radio coverage from the Rumboogie Cafe.

Vinny Marini has a faceoff with Rumboogie ribs and all the trimmings

He featured tons of great artist interviews with participants from near and far making their way upstairs to the interview room that proprietor Carson Lamm so kindly provided for the event.  Carson is now a board member with the Memphis Blues Society.  Stay tuned as the MBS are spearheading an upcoming music event. Vinny Marini’s weekly “Music from the Couch” internet radio show is a worldwide favorite of Blues lovers and this live broadcast was a first.  His shows were really well received by curious Blues lovers who loved the insiders’ glimpse at the future of the music.

Downstairs a capacity crowd enjoys the bands playing hard on into this rainy evening.  A few steps up the spiral staircase…

The view from upstairs at the Rumboogie.

Walk past the upstairs bar and turn down the hall…

Past some sweet hand-painted old show posters…

Two of the world’s best ever vocalists on this poster.

And there’s Vinny broadcasting with a long line of blues luminaries, IBC contestants and lots of great music.

Vinny broadcasting live.

Trent Romens interviews with Music on the Couch

Vinny holds forth broadcasting from afternoon until late at night

Copyright, Robert “Nighthawk” Tooms, 2012

L.A. born in 1938 to a 14 year young prostitute, Jamesetta Hawkins set foot on her musical path at a very early age. By the age of 5, Jamesetta was singing in the gospel choir at her church. Discovered by Jonny Otis when she was 14 years old, the newly renamed Etta James scored her first notable hit with “The Wallflower” (a softly titled “Roll with me Henry.”) when she was just 16. So began a career that would produce the standard “At Last” – her signature song- covered by many, but comparable by none, to the quality of her own unique, original, version.

In spite of her own personal conflicts, Etta became a more than well respected vocalist and was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1999 and received the Lifetime Achievement Award in 2010.

In 1995 David Ritz began an autobiographical journey with her that resulted in their book Rage to Survive which gives an honest, deep look at her life and her struggle with establishing a relationship with her birth mother, a woman who remained largely dismissive of her daughter’s talent. According to David her 1994 release Mystery Lady: The Songs of Billie Holiday – was an attempt at a “peace offering.” (RS 1150)

In 1978, Etta opened for the Rolling Stones. Keith Richards, in his book, Life (Little, Brown and Co, 2010) spoke quite succinctly about Etta’s voice saying that she was “Incredibly strong, Etta, with a voice that could take you to hell or take you to heaven.”

A most telling quote, from none other than B.B. King, retold by author David Ritz, encapsulates what Etta James did for music…

“Back in the Nineties, at dinner with B.B. King, I asked the bluesman where he placed Etta in the history of music. “Ma Rainey sings blues,” he said, “Mahalia Jackson sings gospel, Nancy Wilson sings jazz, and Millie Jackson sings R&B. But Etta James, she sings ‘em all, and she mixes them together in a way that you don’t want to hear no one else.” (As told by David Ritz in RS 1150 Feb. 16, 2012)

But finally, here are Etta’s own words which, very simply, tell the essence of her story…

“On the stage I’m not really Etta James, you know? I’m Jamesetta, and I’m just doing what I really, really love to do.”

Mark May New CD, “Release My Soul” and 2012 Tour

Mark May Band has been touring in Texas the whole month of January (2012) to promote his new CD ‘Release My Soul – Mark May Band‘, and his Texas fans have had a real treat to be sure. Mark’s fifth CD is a perfect addition to his enjoyable sound catalogue, which is a nice mix of Texas Blues, Blues Rock, and Southern Rock.

To purchase “Release My Soul” click on the album cover!

Right from the first gig at House Of Blues, (with the addition of Eric Demmer, sax and Max Day, harp) to last night’s show at The Hawg Stop in Sheldon, the intensity and artistry of all four of these men is unmatched, and evident in the crowd response and rockin’ good times enjoyed by everyone in attendance. [ 'Call On The Blues' with Eric Demmer (Gatemouth Brown) on sax @ House of Blues. ]

Copyright Abby Owen 2012 – All Rights Reserved

1109 Coronel Street
San Fernando, California 91340

9a-viewing
10a – mass
Burial will follow at San Fernando mission
And reception held at St ferdinand catholic church

It is with a heavy heart that Ameriblues reports the passing of our dear friend Manuel ‘Manny’ Cacho.  The Blues world lost a true treasure yesterday when Manny suffered a fatal heart attack. Details are still forthcoming and funeral services will be announced as soon as we get them. Manny was well loved by all who knew him (myself included) and he will be deeply missed. Manny was a huge supporter of Blues music through his efforts as the founding father of the Bluesaholics  [ www.bluesaholics.com ] and was forever showing his love for and dedication to the Blues. Our deepest sympathy goes out to his wife Gloria and all of his family and friends.

Recording

Ma Rainey first recorded for Paramount in 1923 and went on to collaborations with Louis Armstrong and other talented musicians of the time.  Most notably, she made the first recording of Cee Cee Rider, a tune that has been recorded over a hundred times including Elvis Presley’s version in 1973.  Pianist and arranger Thomas A. Dorsey also played a key role in her evolution as her manager and director in the Wild Cats Jazz Band and he famously said of her “When Ma Rainey started singing, the gold in her teeth would sparkle.”

Inspiration

The sparkle that was Ma Rainey proved to be a source of inspiration, not only for female musicians but also for poets across the ages. She inspired Sterling Brown who wrote…

I talked to a fellow,

an’ the fellow say,

“She jes’ catch hold of us,

somekindaway.

-from the poem “Ma Rainey”

Years later, in 1984, Pittsburgh Playwright and Pulitzer Prize winner August Wilson was inspired to write “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom” a play which encapsulates, through the tension of a recording studio where Ma Rainey and her band are about to perform, the inner turmoil, self hatred and exploitation of a divided black and white America.

Recognition

Long recognized by musicians and performers alike, Ma Rainey was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1990, 104 years after her birth. The legend lives on…

“Ma Rainey.” Encyclopædia Britannica. Encyclopædia Britannica Online. Encyclopædia Britannica Inc., 2012. Web. 17 Feb. 2012. <http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/489922/Ma-Rainey>.

What’s up my fellow Blues lovers! This week I am featuring some photos of Dana Fuchs, a singer that has gathered herself quite a following since arriving in New York some years back at the age of 19. When I went to the Highline Ballroom on April 15, 2011 to catch this show the place was packed. I didn’t know much about Dana then and had never seen her perform aside from a video clip here and there. I was on the upper level of the club so it was easy to look down and see how many people were there. When Dana and the band came out they kicked butt, simple as that. Dana has a good stage presence and command of the stage. She’s been mentioned in the same breath as Janis Joplin so go out and catch her and see what you think. If you read her bio you’ll see that since arriving in New York at 19, alone and broke, she’s worked hard to get herself in the position she’s in now. She’s someone definitely worth catching and I will recommend that you do.

Please note: Dana plays the role of a sympathetic hooker confidante to Method Man’s Mortician character in the upcoming Feb 2012 3D release of “The Mortician”.
NEW WORLDWIDE TOUR DATES ANNOUNCED – SOLD OUT NEW YORK SHOW!
The “Love To Beg” 2012 Tour kicked off with a SOLD OUT Unplugged show this January 27 at The Rubin Museum Of Art in NYC. Dana and the Band will be playing clubs and great festivals throughout the US, Europe and Scandinavia for all of 2012. Check our the Tour Dates Page for details. And check back OFTEN as new dates are being added constantly! Dana and the Band are off to Norway and Denmark Feb 1 -20 for a chilly but rocking tour.

To purchase “Love to Beg” click on the album!

I again want to thank Lauren Sachs for her continued support. Thanks Lauren!

Nelson G. Onofre
e-mail: nelson@electriceyes.us
my websites: http://www.electriceyes.us/
http://electriceyesphotography.blogspot.com/

all photos: Nelson G. Onofre © 2011 Copyright
All Rights Reserved
click on images for a larger view

thanks for stopping by and supporting the Blues
you might also enjoy these posts-
Lance Lopez here
Shemekia Copeland here
Eric Gales here

M: What I’m always interested in, is the songwriting. Did you do any of your songs?

S: Oh Gosh. I don’t do a whole lot of songwriting.

M: You don’t. I thought you did!

S: No, I’m not a…I like to write…but….there are people’s songs that I like a whole lot more than mine. Some people have a knack for doing that. I usually do other people’s songs more than mine. I’m one of those people that actually care about the record. And, I don’t want to put a bunch of bullshit songs on the album, because I wrote them like so many people do. I refuse to do that. I prefer to put a good song on it. When someone writes better songs than I do, I do that one.

M: Wow! Most artists I have interviewed have written their own songs. Let’s talk about how you select your songs. Do you already have a theme in mind, or is something going on in your life that you want to convey? How do you go about that?

S: Absolutely!  I’ve been working on albums for years and the songwriters know what I am looking for. And, I’ve worked with them. It was great! Really cool!

M: So you gave them the concept, and from there they wrote for you.

S: There you go!

M: That’s awesome. How about the interpretation of getting these songs. How do you go about tackling someone else’s words?

S: It takes me a long time to find songs and to write them. Songs are very special and in your soul. I really take pride in it. You have to believe it. That’s how you perform a song. You believe in it or you just don’t get it…the words of that song.

M: Do you try out the songs before you record them to see if your audience receives them well?

S: Not usually. You can’t make a record for everyone. If you try to do that then nobody will like it. What one person dislikes another person will. You have to make songs and do them because you are passionate about it. And, then you hope and pray other people will like it. (she laughs) The one thing that I’ve learned in my career is that you can’t please everybody.

M: I hear you.

S: You just can’t. It’s impossible. Believe me, I stopped trying to.

M: I respect that and yeah, I can relate..I can relate to that. Let’s talk a little bit about Shemekia. What is the mark that you want to leave on blues. What do you want people to say about you and your music?

S: I want them to say that I was an innovator and I had a hand in evolving this music and making it grow by being an artist. I mean..I’ve had so many ways to grow as an artist… voice lessons, this lesson..that lesson… because I want to grow as a singer, as an entertainer…acting lessons and things like that. That’s what I do. I have to be sure that I am good at what I do. I want them to say that I helped keep blues music evolving and growing.

M: I do have to tell you that I have an experience with you that backs what you are saying. You were at Wheeling at the blues festival, probably two or three years ago. I took my daughter to see you and she got in line for you to sign her CD. You signed the CD for her, and asked her if she was going to keep the blues alive. She just looked at you in awe and finally I said, Jessica tell her Yes! So, I just want to say that you are what you say. You are keeping the genre alive. So, thank you!

S: Oh, Thank you! I definitely try.

M: If you had to thank someone for your career who would that be?

S: If I had to thank someone?

M: Yes. For motivating you… for…

S: It would really be hard. I would say at this point…If it wasn’t for my father, I wouldn’t be doing this. You know what I mean. If it wasn’t for my parents being such great parents, raising me, and keeping me grounded in my life. I wouldn’t be here, and I wouldn’t be doing this. As far as my career and the direction of it, I would definitely think of John Hahn, because he has just been instrumental and amazing. I could not have been here, couldn’t have gotten here without him.

M: When you are listening to music, who is in your player?

S: Oh my God! I wish you could see my ipod! I really do, because no one would ever know it!

M: Well, we Want to!

S: I got Dean Martin in there. I got ..just everything…Nancy Wilson…Etta James…Ruth Brown…I just downloaded a bunch of Curtis Mayfield…I love so many different types of music.

M: I think everyone is all over the place. It’s so accessible to pull a song here and there. What are the things you like and dislike about being on the road?

S: I don’t like beds in the hotels! (we laughed) But recently I found something that helps, like taking my own pillow. Some of my guys are doing it, and I thought let me try this cause they never have problems sleeping! And, I’ve been taking a pillow, and I’m telling you that I think it makes a difference! (we laughed).

M: Cool! Glad it works!

S: I really love being out on the road. I really do enjoy it. Otherwise I don’t think I’d be doing it. Does it get hard? Yeah. You get tired and you run into all different kinds of weather. You got to deal with the weather change. That’s not all that great for the voice. A lot of things about it and I’m…Oh God what am I going to do? But, yes I always enjoy it.

M: Your vocals are always so powerful and strong. What do you do when there is a cold…how do you get through that…for other vocalists that are looking to you for guidance…any tidbits?

S: Well you know what? For a long time it was just prayer. And, I think that…because I had no formal training. I didn’t know anything about the voice, other than simple breathing techniques at the very beginning. Now I’ve been taking voice lessons. So lately I’ve been learning all kinds of techniques to keep my voice in tact.

M: How long have you been taking voice lessons? It doesn’t sound like very long.

S: No. Probably about a year and a ½.

M: That is amazing Shemekia with your power!

S: I tell you what. The other night I was on stage. And, I was talking about how much I’m missimg Koko and that no matter how close we got over the years I always had a…she had been to my house…from the first time that we met…I couldn’t say a word to her because I was just so damn nervous but….she had been to my house….we cooked catfish…we got so close over the years…she would just call me randomly to see how I was doing…but I still felt that Oh my God…I’m in the presence of greatness. You know… I never lost…I never lost that feeling over the years…So, anyway, to make a long story short. After the show a young woman came up to me and she said, You are my KoKo Taylor. I’ve been listening to you since I don’t know what age. I’m telling you…I teared up…I tried not to let her see it…I teared up…And I thought Oh My God, what I have been doing for these past fifteen years or so really matters. And, I just…it made everything fine. So, I could say that was my greatest accomplishment.

M: Shemekia that’s wonderful. What’s your fondest memory of Koko?

S: Oh my Gosh! I remember I was somewhere…I don’t even remember where it was at this point. But…Koko came out to see me. I was so sick. I think it was heat exhaustion. I don’t know what the hell happened to me. But I was just…the paramedics were there before the gig…thinking Oh My God…am I going to pass out? Anyway…the show must go on. So I went over there and I saw her. And when I saw her…I was like…if Koko Taylor can be here…you know…and she is not in the best of health…if she can be sitting right here in this heat, and come to support me and watch what I do. Then, I can get my ass on stage and I can do this. I saw her and it seemed like she gave me all the energy I needed. I went up there and…I did the show.

M: That’s really touching. It seems that all of the blues artists I interview have talked about how this is a family. When someone pulls in at a festival. They are excited to see one another, and they mention that they just saw them here or there. The blues community is truly a family. I keep hearing more and more of that.

S: Oh! Definitely! Hell. There aren’t that many of us when you really look at it. So we have to stick together. We have to support each other because the support for blues is kind of limited. Not to minimize the fabulous, wonderful fans that we have, and many of them are die hard and always come out to support us. If you have three or four blues acts coming to your town in a week…you know what I mean…a person can not afford to come out and see three or four blues acts in a week. You know what I mean? You have to pick and choose.

M: Pittsburgh is a huge blues town. We have really good fans, and we really have good acts coming in., probably because of the fan base. You will go where you are heard!

M: Anything you want me to ask you that I didn’t cover?

S: I don’t think so…I think this has probably been one of the best interviews that I have had in a long time.

M: Thank you.. I’ve been a fan of yours for years. I love Beat Up Old Guitar.

S: That’s a great song.

M: I appreciate all that you do. Good luck with your upcoming marriage. That’s such an exciting time. We’ll catch you on the road.

S: All right then. Thank you.

 ”Hey, guys, you need some help?” Having just arrived in Ft. Lauderdale twelve hours later than expected, I had wearily retrieved my bags. Turning around, I saw the Tommy Castro Band gathering their many guitar, sax and trumpet cases in the baggage area.They quickly thanked me for my offer to help. Their immediate looks of recognition, their smiles and the hugs were all that I needed to be “back in the game.” I was back with my blues family.

Docked at St. Croix

The pre-party had already started and this blonde had to be there yesterday. I rushed to the check-in desk at the Ft. Lauderdale Hilton and found myself standing beside Coco Montoya. His kind and patient smile, his warm eyes and his soft chuckle proved to be a wonderful welcome. He laughed as we chatted. He wisely moved aside not wanting to be in the “danger zone” as a dizzy blonde raced to get to THE party. Yes, I was back home with my blues family.

JP Soars and Victor Wainright

Minutes later, I caught the last of Brandon Sandini’s act. Southern Hospitality came on next…Victor Wainright, Damon Fowler and JP Soars. What an act to kick off a Blues Cruise! Scott Sutherland and Shakura S’aida joined the mix and really kicked things up on stage. The dance floor was filled all evening. Everyone busied themselves meeting new friends and getting reacquainted with others. The feeling of the evening: warm and welcoming. The music: spectacular and worth the trials and tribulations of the day.

The next morning, the cruisers were at full tilt. The mission: board that big Holland America boat and head for the high seas. The smiles, the laughter and the sharing…yes, the cruisin’ blues family was back together again.

As the boat readied to steam out of that Floridian port, the stage was being assembled on the top deck. Supplies were being loaded in by the crew and the cruisers. (The rule of the high sea: never leave port without adequate provisions…and the cruisers were not taking any chances.) The hardworking crew labored to set up a very elaborate buffet for the sail away party. ….and what a party that turned out to be. Yes, two thousand blues fans were taking to the high seas and holding a boat, its crew (500 workers)  and 27 acts (115 musicians) hostage for seven short days. Super Chikan, the opening band, christened the cruise and rocked the crowd. The boat started swaying and shifting. The promise of continuous dancing to the Caribbean and back was the mandate. Yes, those pesky blues cruisers waved goodbye to all of those other “traditional cruisers” who watched us slowly moving out of port…wishing that they too were on the “blues highway” of the sea.

Kenny Neal and Shakura S'aida

There was no shortage of music or places to see an act. Every evening an itinerary was left in each cabin detailing the activities for the next day. There were acts in the Ocean Bar, the Crow’s nest on the top deck, the Queen’s room, the main showroom, the piano bar and the top pool deck. Something was going on at all times. Many had their week mapped out. Some kept referring to their schedules throughout the day to manage their time to get to all of the shows. People raced up and down the stairs, up and down elevators and down hallways crossing the ship to get to the music. The acts included: Bettye LaVette, Cafe R& B, Chris Cain, Coco Montoya, Homemade Jamz Blues Band, Joe Louis Walker, Kenny Neal, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Latimore, Legendary R & B Revue (Tommy Castro, Rick Estrin, Theodis Ealey, Debbie Davies and the Tommy Castro Band), Lowrider Band, Matt Anderson, Nick Moss with Jimmy Johnson, Philipp Fankhauser, Rod Piazza and the Mighty Flyers, Schroeter & Breitfelder, Shakura S’Aida, Shemekia Copeland, Bill Sim, Jr. & Mark Lavoie, Super Chikan & the Fighting Cocks, Taj Mahal & the Phantom Blues Band, Tommy Castro, Dion Dimucci, and the piano bar hosts (Dave Keyes, Mitch Woods, Eden Brent and Frederick Neal.). There were various workshops: cooking shows, photography clinics, drum classes to learn various blues shuffles, band and promotional clinics, film showcases, songwriting forums, Sonny Boy Williamson studies, and many more. Of course, there were the usual spa treatments, theme nights, the photo sessions, the shore excursions, the elaborate dinners, the buffets, the endless cocktails, the walking on the decks, the exercise classes, the raffles and the onboard shopping. Life is about choices. The choices were many and at times overwhelming.

Lee Oskar and Chris Cain

There are many, many things to share about the cruise…and it definately would fill a volume…I will share my favorites with you.

The sail away parties are always memorable. The music, the food, the cocktails and the blues fans make for a fun time. They mingle, they share, they enjoy. The shows on the pool deck are unmatchable. During the day, the endless sunshine made the afternoon shows delightful. The evenings on the pool deck were just as enjoyable: moonlight, warm breezes, the sounds of the seas and of course, the outstanding assortment of shows. The acts all performed on the top deck and in the showroom. There were late night jams that were unbelievable. The eager mix of players waiting to take the stage was endless. The many combinations of players and their various styles of music was “worth the price of admission.” The players were enjoying their time with their fellow musicians…all agreeing that time on the road and great distances made this a rare treat. The dancing was endless. The blues fans were thrilled that this time we could use the pool on the top deck while the music was playing. (We promised to try and behave ourselves…and they still had the life preservers on hand…just in case.)

I have become absolutely addicted to the beach parties. The ones on this cruise were the best ones to date. Picture St. Croix: sunshine, blues skies, exotic beaches, friendly people and everything within walking distance. We visited a local pub at the port exit where regular cruiser, Jersey Dave, played some harp for those who stopped by in transit to various parts of that small island. Picture a pub crawl: strolling (not stumbling) along a roadway that flanked a beautiful coastline that led to five various pubs all loaded with blues musicians. We never made it past the first pub, Sand Bar. It was not because we had too many tropical drinks but because Mitch Woods had brought along an outstanding cast of players that included Debbie Davies. We could not drag ourselves away. The blues, the people and the setting were priceless. Later in the day St. Croix hosted a blues festival for the cruisers. Three local bands and three “Cruise” bands shared the music on a stage that was in a grassy park adjacent to the port. The locals had set things up in a very tasteful festival format with tents for food, drinks and merchandise. A good time was had by all who chose to attend. The best advantage: walking off the boat and walking to a festival. The cruisers were also treated to a party at Little Divi Resort on St. Martin. The resort welcomed our large group with bar kiosks and a lavish buffet. The beach was pristine, the water warm and the skies cloudless and a brilliant blue. The beach chairs and umbrellas were waiting for us. A nicely done stage had been erected to host Kenny Neal. Kenny and his hard working family provided hours of entertainment. Someone in our group joked as she languished in the warm sea, sipping a cocktail and listening to the music, “Wow, I am having such a terrible time, I think that I am booking a flight home at the end of the day.” She winked and laughed uproariously. Who could not have a good time?

My biggest addiction on the cruise is the piano bar. The mantra: It stays open until the last player or the last fan falls. You never know who will stop by and sit in. On past cruises, our room was directly under the piano bar. When the stomping, clapping and boisterous cheers reached a crescendo after we had gone to bed, we would put on our robes and run back to the piano bar to see what was happening.

Latimore, Eden Brent, Georg Schroeter

It was the signal that the place was rocking. On the last cruise, one gathering included Tommy Castro, Keith Crossin, Kenny Neal (playing a little drum), Renee and Deak playing harp, Steve Simon on clarinet, Mitch Woods on piano and Todd Sharpville on guitar. This time my roommate distanced me by a five minute walk instead of my usual two minute sprint up to the piano bar. The last night of this past cruise: Latimore, Frederic Neal, Eden Brent, Paul Baughman ( a Pittsburgh bass player), Hawkeye the harp man and Renee on harp had gathered around 3 AM. Some of us wanna be musicians provided the rhythm section effects with tambourines and shakers. The collection of players got bigger, the laughter louder and the music wilder. I left at 5 AM so that I would be able to disembark the boat on time. Shhh…don’t tell anyone about my favorite “gig” on the boat. The place is so tiny that I don’t want any more cruisers squeezing in ( I am amazed at how many can be packed into that space)….it is a wonderful cruiser “discovery.”

The Ocean Bar with Schroeter & Breitfelder was an unexpected treat. They were the 2011 International Blues Challenge Solo/Duo winners. Their music drifted down the many levels of the glass stair case. The fans were lured by the blues that were floating their way. The lounge and the outer lying areas were packed each time they played. One afternoon, Tommy Castro, Keith Crossin and Rick Estrin had an “impromptu” practice session before their official Legendary Review Show. Tommy apologized for their
casual appearance because it was not a scheduled show. Not one fan complained… their “show” was that good! I laughed when Rick suddenly got up and put away his harps saying that he was done. Tommy stood there for a moment in the silence…looking a little lost…he soon said with a laugh, “Let’s do something unique…let’s play a song.” He brought down the house. Again, the place was packed…the cruisers just followed the music. Later in the week, I went to see Rick Estrin and Nick Moss. Rick was serious with the music but hilarious with the quips that he shared. Nick, quiet and into the music mode, finally started trading some stories and facts. He was soon smiling and joking. He told his story of how Rick was the reason that he played music. I had tears in my eyes…I laughed that hard. The cost of that set…priceless.

Some of the highlights about the other players:

Watching Shemeika on stage is always worth the trek across the country. She packs a big wallop and you get a big dose of heartfelt blues. Not only does she cook on the stage but she cooks in the kitchen. Her culinary segment was filled with her amazing stories. Her humor was refreshing and her frankness about life unmatchable. I found myself writing down the recipe and I don’t even cook!

Shakura S’Aida is a power house no matter when and where she performs. She was everywhere and at many of the jams. I even walked laps on the deck with her. Shakura has been a favorite of mine since I met her and her family in Memphis years ago when she competed. Her energy is endless. Her enthusiasm to work with her fellow musicians infectious.

Debbie Davies added her edgy type of blues and provided a deeper dimension to many of the jams and many of the shows.  Dion had asked to have her as his special guest for a CD release segment…and he had never played or rehearsed with her before that “gig.” Good choice on Dion’s part…she did a great job. His latest Cd is one you will want to give a listen.

Kenny Neal and his family were the hardest working people on the boat. They not only played but they shared their warmth and appreciation for being able to participate. Their graciousness was well noted by many. Kenny and I talked about how things happen in your life. We agreed that sometimes those changes take you down a different path and if you are one of the lucky ones, you get to choose a more postive route.

Super Chikan and I shared some stories about past cruises and festivals. He enjoyed being on stage and working with everyone. His show was humorous and packed with energy. He said that he liked what he did and had fun with the music. What a brave guy…working in a band with three women. The three ladies each brought a zestiness to the act. It was a melding of many characters that made the act an intense performance. His Chiktar presentation was incredible. His talent in designing his unusual guitars is impressive.

Kenny Wayne Shepherd is always a favorite. I have watched him since the first time he came to Pittsburgh way back when he was a youngster. He has grown into the role, musician and showman, and is flanked by his friend, Noah Hunt. It is always a sizzling show…and he always gives a different show each time he plays. That in itself is refreshing.

Coco Montoya is a giant of a man with a simple kindness that understates the fierceness of his playing. His song, “Am I Losing You” brings down the house with its anguish and sadness at a live show.

Chris Cain was the surprise of the trip. He had contacted me a few months earlier for help in working his way across the country. Wow, what a performer. He is free with his emotions and his love of the music. He was a very humble man who thanked everyone for listening. Whew, what a show. His after jam was memorable.

The Homemade Jamz Blues Band was a pleasure to watch. I had first encountered them when they had competed in Memphis. They too have grown into young adults and have really upped their game. What impresses me the most besides their music…their politeness and their manners. Years ago at the IBC, I saw the older brother quietly bringing his sister front and center to be recognized as being an integral part of the band. On the cruise, their quiet demeanor and shy smiles belied the fierce music that they unleashed to the blues fans.

The Phantom Blues Band….wow, they packed in the blues…all are very talented. Their shows were always well attended. They too were at every jam and performed everywhere on the ship. They backed Taj Mahal. It was wonderful that the cruisers honored Taj at the Returnees party.

Joe Lewis Walker with his new blues belting singer, Bertha, proved to be a crowd favorite. His playing was superb but Bertha stole the show.

Rod Piazza and The Mighty Flyers was also a crowd pleaser. Rod, the best dressed harp player on the boat, tore things up with his west coast style and Honey, ever devastating, ripped the keys off her keyboard on her Boogie Woogie songs.

Mikey, Jr., a Pittsburgh favorite, was on the boat and working with the Windy City Blues group. Mikey, Jr. ran a jam and mixed it up in the poole area.

A special highlight for the cruise, Pittsburgh songstress, Jill West, hosted her usual jam in the Crow’s Nest. Known for her skills at leading a jam, I finally witnessed her unique finesse at managing one. An added treat was when she was called to the stage on the pool deck to join a “Pro Jam”…that does not usually happen. What a thrill it was to see my friend and fellow BSWPA member, Jill West, perform with Mitch Woods and an assortment of the Pro players.

A special note: The theme parties were fun. The cruisers take everything to heart, embracing the moment and providing endless hours of entertainment with their resourcefulness.

Thinking back…it was a blues party and blues festival on the high sea with 3000 of our closest friends. (The staff had became willing converts while being held hostage.) Friendship, music and sharing…it was a good feeling for those seven short days.

Yes, that big boat rocked and rolled all the way to the Caribbean and back. The dancing was endless. The fun immeasurable. The music unbeatable. The price…27 bands (115 musicians)…worth every penny.
See you on the next cruise.

See you on the next cruise!

Yours in blues,

Blues Society of Western PA

Serendipity

At times there seems to be certain movements of the universe that can only be described, in retrospect, as serendipitous. One wonders what the outcome of a life would be had not singular events taken place at particular times and this could not be stated more truly than in the life of Elizabeth Cotten.   After moving to Chicago, Elizabeth became employed at a department store, where, one day, a little girl got lost. Elizabeth found the little girl and returned her to her mother. The little girl was Penny Seeger, daughter of Ruth and Charles Seeger and Elizabeth soon became a domestic in their household.

Revival

As the children grew, they became acquainted with Elizabeth’s playing and in the 1950′s it was Mike, a Seeger son, who ultimately recorded Elizabeth and her unique finger picking style for Folkways. Her popularity rose during the roots music revival era during the 60′s and she became a popular presence at the folk festivals.   Elizabeth honed her performance, often sharing stories of her life with her audience. Playing upside down left handed guitar, Elizabeth’s style is often referred to as “Cotten Style” – a style in which she would play the base line with her fingers and the melody with her thumb.

Celebration

Elizabeth played almost up until her death in 1987, capping her life with a  Grammy in 1984 for Best Ethnic or Traditional Folk Recording for “Elizabeth Cotten Live!” when she was 90 years old.

“Nobody did teach me. Everything I know, I learned all by myself, so, I give myself all of the credit”

-Elizabeth Cotten

Resource: L.L. Demerle’ www.electica.org