March 2013 - Charlotte Blues Society

MARCH 2013
Vol. 20.03
MARCH 2013
$1.00
1
Charlotte Blues Society
PO Box 32752
Charlotte, NC28232-2752
www.CharlotteBluesSociety.org
March 3 ~ BLUE Sunday
featuring
Gumbo Motion
"
Donn “Prof. Greyhair” Livingston
Keys & Vocals
Michael Wolf Ingmire
Guitar & Vocals
Rick Kausch
Drums
Ray McClelland
Bass
Gumbo Motion plays a combination of originals and select covers of
Blues, New Orleans Funk & R&B, Southern Soul, and Rock and Roll.
Individually, band members have an impressive list of credits — together,
they’ve been heating up stages around Charlotte with their classic sound.
Come join in the fun at BLUESunday ~ March 3!
Doors open at 7:00 PM
Music starts 8:00 PM
1218 Charlottetown Ave.
704-376-1446
CBS Members – FREE
Non-members – $5.00
(2)
Bluesletter
Congratulations to The Cazanovas for a great
performance that took them into the IBC Finals!
IMPORTANT DATES — MARK YOUR CALENDAR!
March 3 — BLUESunday featuring Gumbo Motion
April 7 — CBS 20th Anniversary Party
June 7-9 — Taste of Charlotte
June 21 — Lake Norman’s 50th Year Celebration
Oct. 18-19 — Blues & BBQ Festival
Oct. 19 — Solo/Duo Competition
ED
NEED
S
R
E
GE
NTE
XT PA
E
VOLU
N
LS
ETAI
SEE D
Our 20th Birthday in April! Yes – it’s been 20 years of supporting & fostering live blues in the
city of Charlotte and surrounding area. We are looking to bring you some great shows, so we are
having a $20 for 20 Years Campaign.
Now we know everybody can't do a lot of money, so it will be your choice of what to donate. But
we do need the funds to bring in some great shows for your enjoyment this year. And we are a
501(c)3 organization so it's tax deductible.
The Paypal link (below) is all set up if you wish to contribute to the cause:
https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=7LMMW4RKD6ZHQ
Jeri Thompson, President
Diva
CBS TEES
Long-sleeve & Short-sleeve
White on Blue
Blue on White
Prices range from $15 to $25
Pick up yours at BLUESunday
or order from our website at
www.CharlotteBluesSociety.org
P E R K S !
We are always looking for incentives to
pass on to our fellow members, so if
your company or business offers
discounts for non-profits and their
members or if you work for a matching
contributions company, let us know!!!
Expanding
the Charlotte Blues Society Membership
MARCH
2013
We call ourselves the Charlotte Blues Society…..but have we
gotten Charlotte involved in our Blues Society? Being a nonprofit, we are always looking for more members because we
operate on membership money and participation of members in
our activities. And this being our 20th Anniversary year, we
need to get out of our rut and get involved with Charlotte.
Jay Seileman, Director of The Blues Foundation, said to me
two years ago at the IBCs, “Charlotte is a mecca for music”. He
didn’t say Blues music…he said music. We all like other forms
of music. Our booked and regular jam musicians play other
forms of music as well as Blues. We’ve had major acts come
from this area that were not all Blues. So, what do we do to
expand and grow our membership base and show folks that we
are move?
Well, we have several irons in the fire but the first thing we are
going to do is join forces with the Carolina Entertainment
Network (CEN) and cross memberships.





As a member of Charlotte Blues Society, you are now
entitled to a one year Free membership to CEN and their
club benefits. (Their membership fee is $25.)
They meet at a different location every month – usually on
a Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday night – at 7:00 pm
and at a place that serves food and drinks.
You will receive a monthly email with location and time two
weeks before the meeting.
You will need to have your current Charlotte Blues Society
membership card with you or pay their cover. (If you don’t
have a card, come by the Membership Counter on
BLUESunday, or email [email protected])
The same works for them and our club benefits. So when
you see new faces at our place, make them feel welcome.
Carolina Entertainment Network encompasses all aspects of
the entertainment industry. Musicians, agents, radio personnel,
entertainment managers, lawyers, club owners, etc. Every
month they have a brief topic of discussion about the
entertainment community in our area. It’s a fantastic networking
opportunity. And a lot of folks come from the surrounding
areas, even from Spartanburg. CEN has a website with lots of
information and we will start this program in March. The CEN
meeting for March is Wed., March 27, 7:00 pm at the Wild
Wing Café on Mallard Creek Road. Put it on your calendars!
Here’s another challenge that I’m taking on and one I want you
to consider too. I’m going to bring one new member to the
club this year. Not just another name on the books, a member
that wants to be involved. That potential member will get me
more involved by getting them involved. One year to find an
involved member? If we all get just one, we double our
membership.
3
Now let’s get involved! We’ve got several opportunities
to tie ourselves into the community of Charlotte this year
and we need volunteers. Go ahead and put these on your
calendars now. This is the Charlotte Blues Society’s
20th Anniversary Year and we need to be Out and About,
Loud and Proud! And more than 5 or 6 people to commit
and show up! The more of us who show up and participate,
the better we look as an organization involved with
Charlotte. Buy your CBS t-shirts, wear them, and show up!
Sunday April 7, 2013: CBS 20th Anniversary Party at the
Double Door Inn. Entertainment to be announced. Bring
friends and show off the Charlotte Blues Society.
Friday-Sunday June 7-9, 2013: Taste of Charlotte in
downtown Charlotte. CBS has a beer booth and we have
an opportunity to work a change booth. The beer booth
generates money for CBS because we get a percentage.
It’s also an opportunity to expose us to Charlotte. We need
a BIG membership volunteer staff to work the booth in
shifts. It’s long on Saturday and Sunday, and it can be
warm. You will get a “call to arms” from Jeri as we get
closer to the dates, so go ahead and pencil in a time on
your calendar that you can man the booth for that
weekend.
Saturday June 21, 2013: Lake Norman’s 50th Year
Celebration at Queen’s Landing. An all day party and
music and we will share space with the folks from WSGE.
The station will be doing phone-ins throughout the day. The
promoters want to start the day around 11am with local
Gospel/Christian music until 4pm or so. This is to
encourage a family atmosphere. The Blues starts at 5 and
runs until 11. The Part-Time boys have already been
booked and we want to use as many of our CBS core
bands and musicians as possible, and so do they. Sets will
be no longer than 60 mins. I don’t know what the budget is
yet so we can’t quote figures. But please pencil it in for
now. This is going to be a long day but one that will do us
proud.
Friday and Saturday October 18-19: The Blues and BBQ
Festival. The Biggie! And it’s back in downtown Charlotte!
We will be set up on the corner of Second and Tryon.
There will be two stages at the event but ours is the Blues
stage. We have booked Delta Moon for our Friday night
headliner. Saturday afternoon will be the CBS solo/acoustic
competition for the IBCs. We will be given a beer booth to
run with 12% of sales going to CBS. We need folks for both
days (Friday will be the shorter day). Other details are
working out as the plans come together. I know it’s eight
months out, but please go ahead and put it on your
calendar.
—Rick Ballew, VP Charlotte Blues Society
(4)
Bluesletter
Congratulations to the winners of this year’s IBCs!!
The top prize in the 2013 Band
competition was awarded to the
Selwyn Birchwood Band of the
Suncoast Blues Society.
When the Blues
Foundation coined IBC
as "the largest battle of
blues bands in the
world," they meant it.
The event seems to
become even more
and more universal
each year.
The Solo/Duo winner was
Little G. Weevil, sponsored by
the Atlanta Blues Society.
(-Blues Festival Guide)
Then there’s the KBAs!!
Let's give a big shout out to the 2013 Keeping
Judges determined the
Best Self-Produced CD to be
Solo Recordings by Steve Hill of
Montreal Blues Society.
the Blues Alive Award recipients.
Affiliate - Colorado Blues Society
Art - Stan Street, Clarksdale, Mississippi
Club - Boulder Outlook Hotel, Boulder, Colorado
Education - Nat Dove, Bakersfield, California
Festival: U.S. - Mount Baker Rhythm And Blues Festival, Bellingham, Washington
Festival: International - Festival International du Blues De Tremblant, Mont Tremblant, Quebec, Canada
Historical - Shelley Ritter, Clarksdale, Mississippi
International - Vicente Zumel, Barcelona, Spain
Journalism - Bob Margolin, High Point, North Carolina
Literature -I Feel So Good: The Life and Times of Big Bill Broonzy by Bob Riesman, Chicago, Illinois
Manager - Marty Salzman, Chicago, Illinois
Print Media -Blues News, Oslo, Norway
Radio- Commercial - Gil Anthony, Dothan, Alabama
Read more about the events during the IBCs
Radio- Public, Scott Mullins, Baltimore, Maryland
at www.blues.org
Record Label - Telarc, Cleveland, Ohio
MARCH 2013
5
Gumbo Motion
Donn, Michael, Rick, and Ray play a combination of originals and select covers of
Blues, New Orleans Funk & R&B, Southern Soul, and Rock and Roll.
Let’s meet the band ...
Donn Livingston (“Professor Greyhair”) began playing professionally in 1966 at the age of 14, and worked
his way through high school and college playing in various jazz, R&B and Rock & Roll bands. His talent landed
him sideman gigs with the likes of Sam the Sham, The Clovers, Percy Sledge, The Showmen, The Beach Boys,
Jimmy Buffett, Jerry Jeff Walker & The Lost Gonzo Band, and The Flying Burrito Brothers, to name a few.
Exhausted from life on the road, he retired in 1974 and entered the corporate world. In 2008, Donn returned to
music. In recent years he has been playing locally as a solo artist and with numerous regional bands, and is also
called on for the occasional national gig.
Michael Wolf Ingmire has been performing for 44+ years and has shared stages with musical legends such as
Kenny Neal, Johnny Copeland, Wilson Pickett, Clarence Carter, John Lee Hooker, Albert King, Tinsley Ellis, and
many others. Michael joined Mac Arnold for the Cornbread and Collard Greens Festival, and his band, Michael
Wolf & The Voodoo Brothers, were winners of the 2011 Charlotte Music Award for Best Blues Band. Michael is
currently guitarist and singer for the D.B.A. Blues Band, and has recently taken on a repertoire of classic New
Orleans R&B. Michael says, “To really perform material by such artists as Professor Longhair, Allen Toussaint,
and Dr. John, you have to have the right piano player. Professor Greyhair is the right piano player….”
Rick Kausch met the blues in a juke joint in Tallahassee, Florida at the age of 12. The boogie disease would not
let him rest until he applied a pair of sticks to a set of drums. After playing in several Rock-Blues cover bands, he
played drums with Michael Wolf and A Side of Blues, and later with the D.B.A. Blues Band. Rick was encouraged
greatly by the drummer Willie ‘Big Eyes’ Smith — an influence that is felt in his solid meter and swinging
drumming style.
Ray McClelland Jr was influenced mainly by The Isley Brothers, Earth, Wind & Fire, The Brothers Johnson,
Stanley Clarke, George Duke, and Parliament Funkadelic. Ray also plays with the D.B.A. Blues Band, the Golden
Eagle Blues Band, and a jazz-fusion band called Azra. His funky style of bass playing solidly anchors Gumbo
Motion.
(6)
Bluesletter
A big THANKS to Nita B & the Swingin’ Soiree for our Pre-Valentine’s Day show last month!
MARCH 2013
7
(8)
Bluesletter
MAGIC SLIM, BLUES ICON, DIES AT 75
Magic Slim, a revered and towering figure in the field of traditional Chicago blues, died Feb.
20 in a Philadelphia hospital at the age of 75. Born Morris Holt in Torrance, Mississippi in
1937, the guitarist performer, bandleader, and recording artist went on to enjoy a career that
launched him to national and international recognition and acclaim.
Slim was one of the foremost practitioners of the raw, gut-bucket, back alley blues associated
with the postwar Chicago blues sound. He and his band, the Teardrops, were known as "the
last real Chicago blues band" for their authentic, no-frills, straight-no-chaser performance of
the music.
Slim's slash and burn guitar technique and booming vocals made for a commanding stage
presence. His intense style was the blueprint that spawned much of the music played by
modern blues artists and rockers. After catching one of Slim's electrifying live shows at a local
nightclub Eddie Vetter invited Slim to open Pearl Jam's concert in Chicago. Magic Slim also
had an encyclopedic repertoire of hundreds of blues songs in his head, giving his live shows a
charming impromptu quality.
Growing up in Grenada, Mississippi, Slim took an early interest in music, singing in the church choir, and fashioning a guitar
for himself with baling wire from a broom, which he nailed to the wall. "Mama whooped me for that," recalled Slim. His first
love was the piano, but having lost the little finger on his right hand in a cotton gin accident, he found it difficult to play
properly. Undaunted, he simply switched to guitar, working in the cotton fields during the week and playing the blues at house
parties on weekends. In 2011 the state of Mississippi erected a Blues Trail Marker in Slim's honor in front of a building in
Grenada where his mother operated a restaurant.
In 1955, like many musicians from the Deep South, Slim migrated to Chicago, where he was mentored by his friend Magic
Sam, who gave the lanky Morris his lifelong stage moniker. Initially discouraged by the highly competitive local music scene,
Slim went back to Mississippi and spent the next five years woodshedding and perfecting his craft. He confidently returned to
Chicago and became a formidable player on the scene, eventually putting together the Teardrops, who would become one of
the busiest and best-loved blues bands around, and one of the most sought-after headliners for festivals in Europe, Japan, and
South America. Slim and his group won the coveted Blues Music Award in 2003 as "Blues Band of the Year," one of six times
Slim won a BMA, considered the highest honor in the blues. Living Blues magazine called Slim and the Teardrops "a national
treasure."
Slim's recording career began with a series of singles in 1966, and he recorded his first album for a French label in 1977. With
the release of Gravel Road in 1990, he began a twenty-two year association with Blind Pig Records, who issued ten albums
and a live DVD over that span. His last release, 2012's Bay Boy, proved that Slim could still deliver the goods. As No
Depression said, "Magic Slim doesn't just play the blues, he body slams his audiences with a vicious guitar attack that pins
them to the floor. His blues are the in-your-face variety." All Music Guide added, "Magic Slim turned 75 in 2012, but his
growling vocals have the fire and brimstone of a Young Lion and his guitar playing is still as razor-sharp as it was when he
turned pro in the '50s."
Blind Pig Records owner Jerry Del Giudice said, "Magic Slim embodied the heart and soul of this label. It was Magic Slim, and
the guys like him, and their music, that inspired us to start the label in the first place."
Blues Revue once remarked, "Whoever the house band in blues heaven may be, even money says they're
wearing out Magic Slim albums trying to get that Teardrops sound down cold." Now Slim can assume his
rightful place as the leader of that band.
North Carolina Heritage Award Recipient George Higgs Died at 82
Music Maker artist George Higgs passed away January 29th, at the age of 82 in Tarboro, NC. The
mouth-harp player had been facing several health issues in the past few months, and we thank you
for all who sent well-wishes to him through Music Maker.
We will greatly miss George, who shared so much of himself through music. He learned to
play the harmonica as a child from his father, who enjoyed playing at home and community events in
his spare time. As a teen he picked up the guitar, and continued honing his musical abilities for
decades. After partnering with Music Maker, George released two CDs and was able to perform for
audiences in France, Switzerland and around the U.S.
In the past six years he was very active with the SOOTS program at Raleigh Charter High School,
visiting the students at their club meetings, performing at fundraisers, and building lasting
friendships and fans through the program.
-- Music Maker Relief Foundation
MARCH 2013
9
Bobby Rush receives MS Governor’s Award
Mississippi artists were honored Feb 21, during a rocking ceremony
at Belhaven University in Jackson.
Five-time Grammy award winner Marty Stuart hosted the 25th
annual Mississippi Governor's Arts Awards ceremony with his band,
The Fabulous Superlatives. He said Mississippians should be proud of
their artistic accomplishments and inspired by the music icons who
have lived and worked in the state. "When it comes to creativity,
we're unparalleled," Stuart told the crowd.
The Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to musician Bobby Rush (above rt), a Louisiana native who was
named Living Blues Magazine's Best Live Performer of the year in 1995 and every year from 1997 to 2000. Rush
performed for many years in Chicago before moving to Jackson. He is known for a unique musical style he calls
"folk funk." Rush gave a solo performance at the end of the ceremony.
www.BluesFestivalGuide.com now offers FREE GIG/CONCERT LISTINGS
to benefit fans, bands, and venues. It’s easy to use and completely free!
To post your gig or concert, simply go to www.BluesFestivalGuide.com,
click on “Submit Gig/Concert,” and fill in the blanks.
It will appear in the Gig/Concert calendar within 24 hours.
Fans can then search by date, band, venue, city, state, and country.
‘Music Maker’ Partners with Duke’s Center for Documentary Studies
Music Maker has announced a partnership this spring with an undergraduate class offering at Duke University’s
Center for Documentary Studies. DOCST 460S: “Multimedia Documentary” is a course taught by Christopher
Sims. Students will have access to MMRF archives but will also create original content for our website through
video, still photography and audio fieldwork.
Students in the small class will likely work in pairs to create the multimedia documentary projects. They will
also fulfill a service-learning component for the course in the process. Some ideas that students might choose
to cover include the relationship between Southern food and music, American roots abroad, MMRF programs
and tracking the history and use of different instruments.
March 18 — Music Maker Blues Revue
at the Havelock Tourist & Event Center
Havelock, NC
Music Maker Relief Foundation, Inc.
helps the true pioneers and forgotten heroes
of southern music gain recognition and meet
their day-to-day needs. We present these
musical traditions to the world
so American culture will flourish
and be preserved for future generations.
(Member of the North Carolina Arts Council)
(10)
Bluesletter
Roscoe Chenier
Legendary Louisiana blues musician,
guitarist, and singer
March 8
A celebration of the life & music of
Joe Thompson
Roscoe Chenier died Feb. 21 in Opelousas,
Louisiana, from complications related to
diabetes. An accomplished blues musician who
sometimes dabbled in the world of zydeco, he
was also the second cousin of the late King of
Zydeco Music, Mr. Clifton Chenier.
He began playing the guitar at the age of 17,
and in 1959 decided to form his own band. In
1961 he recorded a highly popular single called
"Born for Bad Luck" and the “B” side "Annie
Mae's Yo-Yo." From that hit single, Roscoe
Chenier began a successful musical career that
remained faithful to the rhythm and blues
music tradition for five decades.
Rhiannon Giddens Laffan, Joe Thompson, Justin Robinson
Our March 8th Gathering celebrates the life and music of
Mebane fiddler Joe Thompson, mentor to the Carolina
Chocolate Drops. The memorial tribute concert features
Grammy winners Rhiannon Giddens Laffan and Justin
Robinson.
Joe Thompson died last year at the age of 93. In his lifetime,
he played at Carnegie Hall and the Kennedy Center and
toured in Australia, Yet, he might well have left this world
without passing on the African American fiddle-and-banjo
string band tradition handed down through the Thompson
Family, from Joe's enslaved grandfather to his father, John
Arch, and his uncle Walter, and on to Joe, his brother Nate,
and his cousin Odell. None of his younger family members
were interested in taking up the string band tradition.
In 2005, 86-year-old Joe Thompson met three young
musicians at the landmark Black Banjo Gathering in Boone.
Soon, the trio was traveling to Joe's Mebane home every
Thursday night. During those weekly visits, Joe shared with
Dom Flemons, Rhiannon Giddens, and Justin Robinson what
his father had taught him.
In 2007, the National Endowment for the Arts recognized
Joe Thompson's preservation of his family tradition with a
National Heritage Fellowship. Happily for us, Joe not only
preserved it - he passed it on! Please join us in remembering
Joe Thompson on March 8th.
This great tribute to a national treasure will get underway at
7:30 PM in the Great Aunt Stella Center,
926 Elizabeth Avenue, in Charlotte. Doors open at 7 PM.
Folk Society Gatherings are Free & Family-friendly.
Bcked by his former band, the "Blues Snapp
Band," and by his current band, the "Inner City
Blues Band,", Chenier was known for his
“boogie” blues and his soulful scorching blues.
He played the Louisiana and Chittlin’ circuit
clubs, church bazaars, and festivals well into
the 1990s.
In 1993, Roscoe Chenier recorded one of his
classic albums entitled “Roscoe Chenier” – it
was a collection of R&B and soul-tinged blues
with a heavy Fats Domino sound. It was then
Roscoe Chenier began to enjoy the worldwide
exposure he long sought, touring multiple times
throughout the United States and Europe where
he became hugely popular. (His original vinyl
recordings have become a highly sought after
commodity sometimes selling for as much as
$200.00 per recording.)
Roscoe
Chenier
appeared at the
Blues
Estafette
in 1992, 1993,
1996, 1998 and
2001.
He
also
performed at the
very
prestigious
North Sea Jazz
Fest in the Hague.
He
regularly
toured
Europe
and performed on several major blues festivals.
Though his health was declining in recent years,
Roscoe continued to perform at local venues
throughout the Opelousas area.
When not
touring, Roscoe Chenier could be found playing
several nights a week at the Rose Room in
Opelousas, Louisiana where he mentored
younger musicians.
MARCH 2013
11
Were
There??
Dilworth Billiards
Ricky J’s
Delbert McClinton Concert
Puckett’s Farm Equipment
(12)
Bluesletter
The Double Door Inn
FINZ Raw Bar
Forty Rod Roadhouse
MARCH 2013
13
Sports Page Deli
Comet Grill
Smoky Joe’s
Send in pictures where
you hear the Blues!!
The Piedmont Blues Preservation Society’s 27th Annual Carolina Blues Festival
presented by YES! Weekly is being held in downtown Greensboro, NC, May 18, 2013.
Headliners are Janiva Magness and Kenny Neal.
More Info at http://fest.piedmontblues.org
(14)
Bluesletter
Be sure to check websites, Facebook, ReverbNation, MySpace, or
“Google Search” for bookings and updates
about your favorite band or venue.
CLUBS THAT HAVE THE BLUES!
Big Al’s Pub & Grubberia … 704-664-0992
631 Brawley Sch. Rd, Mooresville, NC
The Comet Grill … 704-371-4300
2224 Park Rd., Charlotte, NC
Finz Raw Bar & Grill ... 704-814-9114
142 E. John St, Matthews, NC
Forty Rod Roadhouse ... 704-573-1773 9229-15 Lawyers Rd, Mint Hill, NC
>> Open Jam 2nd Sundays - Hosted by Horsefly Blues Band <<
Hojo & CC’s Wing Shack … 704-827-8867
130 W. Charlotte Ave, Mt. Holly, NC
Kickstand Burgers-n-Bar … 704-332-1010
McHale’s Irish Pub ... 803-548-2151
Miciah’s Speakeasy ... 704-799-0095
1101 Central Ave., Charlotte, NC
1820 Goldhill Rd, Fort Mill, SC
229 Medical Park Rd, Mooresville, NC
MVP’s Raw Bar & Grill … 704-394-2129
10916 Black Dog Ln., Charlotte, NC
Neighborhood Theatre … 704-358-9298
OneMor Bar & Grill … 704-788-8874
846 Union St. South, Concord, NC
River City Bar & Grill … 704-660-9797
Skinnyz Bar & Grill ... 704-893-2157
36th St. in NoDa, Charlotte, NC
155 Pinnacle Ln, Mooresville, NC
15060 Idlewild Rd, Charlotte, NC
Smoky Joe’s Café ... 704-338-9380 510 Briar Creek Rd, Charlotte, NC
>> Open Jam Every Tuesday Night - 9:00 - Hosted by the Smokin’ J’s <<
Speakeasy Alehouse ... 704-784-0107 9 Union St. N, Concord, NC
>> Open Jam 1st Tuesdays - 7:00 - Hosted by the Speakeasy Blues Combo <<
The Blue Vine … 704-797-0093
209 S. Main St., Salisbury, NC
The Evening Muse ... 704-376-3737 N. Davidson St. , Charlotte, NC
>> “Find Your Muse” Open Mic Every Monday <<
The Lodge … 704-544-5226
7725 Colony Rd, Charlotte, NC
Tropical Escape Café … 803-366-3888
Wet Willie’s … 704-716-5650
564 N. Anderson Rd, Rock Hill, SC
900 Seaboard St, Charlotte, NC
We’re sure there are more …
Let us know where YOU hear the Blues!!
MARCH 2013
15
Early shows 9:00 most Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays. Check website for mid-week discounts!
EVERY MONDAY
MONDAY NITE ALL STARS
EVERY TUESDAY
JAZZ JAM NIGHT
The awesome Monday Nite All-Stars
will be playing some of your favorite
Soul / Funk ... easy to listen to and
great to dance to!!
Bill Hanna's Jazz Quartet has been hosting this jam session at the club for
years. Whether you are an up-and-coming jazz musician, or someone
shaking the dust off the old instrument, either way this is the place
where you can come out and jam with one of the best.
MARCH BLUES ‘N’ THEN SOME!
Adv. Tix purchased at www.doubledoorinn.com
3/3
Gumbo Motion @ BLUESunday
(8:00)
Blues/New Orleans R&B
3/9
Chris Duarte
(10:00) Blues/Rock
$12 ($10 Adv Tix)
3/16
Jimmy Thackery & The Drivers
(10:00) Blues
$15 ($12 Adv Tix)
3/20
Bill Kirchen “Titan of the Telecaster”
(9:00)
Americana/Roots Rock
$15
3/21
The Steepwater Band
(9:00)
Americana/Rock/Blues
$12 ($10 Adv Tix)
3/23
Marvelous Funkshun
(10:00) Blues/Rock/Southern Soul
$8
3/28
Southern Experience
(9:00)
$8
Southern Rock/Blues
$5 (Members Free)
Coming in April … Charlotte Blues Society’s 20th Anniversary Party!
Ma rc h 20 ~ Bi l l Ki rc he n ~ “Ti ta n of the Tel ec as ter”
Kirchen has been everywhere since he first plugged in during the mid-’60s: he was a founding
member of the legendary Commander Cody and His Lost Planet Airmen, he’s released eight
critically acclaimed solo albums, he’s toured internationally with Nick Lowe and has performed
with the likes of Doug Sahm, Gene Vincent, Elvis Costello, Dan Hicks, Emmylou Harris and Link
Wray. Each step of the way, he’s made a deep impression with his singular six-string virtuosity.
As the Washington Post’s Mike Joyce put it, “The folks who make Fender Telecasters ought to
stop what they’re doing and cut Bill Kirchen a fat check.”
Check out The Double Door’s Website for these and other bands playing this month,
updates and future bookings, show times, admission, nightly drink specials, & more!
Sign up for weekly updates.
www.doubledoorinn.com
Purchase Advance Tickets for selected shows.
1218 Charlottetown Ave.
704-376-1446
Join the DDI Fan Club at www.facebook.com
(16)
Bluesletter
4Jacks
Deal With It
4Jacks is the all-star cast of Texas guitar legend Anson Funderburgh, DC singer/drummer Big
Joe Maher, keyboardist Kevin McKendree, and Nashville session bass player, Steve Mackey.
Truly four of a kind and their first release Deal With It, is full of house-rockin', soulful originals.
The list of the accomplishments of these four artists is long but one can attest that the whole is
maybe even better than the parts. That’s a pretty big claim but the music on this disc is all the
proof one needs. It's just what you would expect from these top shelf musicians whose song writing
and playing skills have the authenticity that few players can produce while still sounding fresh and
vital.
Deal With It features instrumentals, funky blues, house rockin', bare bones flavors, swingin' blues and more. It's got real tasty
grooves and is the kind of "hand" that you surely would like to be dealt.
(Adapted from Blues Festival E-guide)
Hadden Sayers
Rolling Soul
(Blue Corn Music)
Stories from the road have resonated in Hadden Sayers’ head and heart as he's traveled the
country, driving him to explore the human condition more deeply. The result of that troubadour
experience is the eagerly anticipated album Rolling Soul, released in late February. Confident
tunes from a mature, assured composer, the record features Sayers at his best. Heartfelt lyrics
sung from deep inside matched with innovative guitar work, recorded with the warmth and soul
and depth of the best vintage gear. It’s a record to contemplate and savor.
To celebrate the release of the record, Sayers is doing what he does best: he’s hitting the road.
Hadden Sayers belongs on the road, amongst the music lovers of our small towns and big cities.
He’s lived his own hard times, and he’s taken in the challenges of his fans. He’s persevered and
witnessed tremendous determination in the faces of the crowd. And with the Rolling Soul album
and tour of 2013, he’s celebrating it all.
(Adapted from Blues Festival E-guide)
Dave Widow and The Line Up
Waiting For The World To End
(An IBC Finalist for Best Self Produced CD)
With his distinctive style of finger picking and soulful vocals, Dave Widow brings a fresh
approach to the Blues by combining elements of R&B, Funk, Soul and Rock. His musical
style is influenced by his close relationships with great blues and R&B talents including
Buddy Miles, Bonnie Bramlett, Bill Champlin, Lonnie Mack, and his mentor and collaborator
(the late) Roger "Jellyroll" Troy, bassist and vocalist for The Mike Bloomfield Band.
‘The Line Up’ consists of L.A.’s most noteworthy and well-recorded musicians who have
played with the likes of Marviin Gaye, Steve Miller, B.B. King, Elton John, and more. Music
Connection wrote "Their masterful musicianship and deep understanding of the blues is a
major draw, but the humble nature of each outrageously skilled player is what gives this
group's music its genuine soul.”
Dave Widow & The Line Up’s new CD "Waiting For The World To End" is a collaborative effort. Four tracks are Dave
Widow compositions and eight were co-written with a mix of The Line Up members. The CD features the incomparable
Mike Finnigan on Hammond B-3 and piano, and a special appearance by Bill Champlin and Barry Goldberg. To attract
and assemble such a collective pedigree takes more than cash and a pretty please. The reason Dave Widow attracts
elite talent is crystal clear upon first listen to Waiting For The World To End.
(Provided by Michael McClune Media)
Danny Marks
A Friend In The Blues
(Self produced)
There’s no doubt about it there are some fabulous blues musicians in Canada. Well, here’s Danny
Marks, one more to add to the bunch. A fixture on the Toronto blues scene for many years,
Danny’s roots go back to the 1960s as a founding member of the band Edward Bear. He is an
accomplished singer and songwriter (with a nice storyteller touch) and a highly skilled guitar
player who can move from rocky electric blues to beautifully controlled Mississippi John Hurt style
finger picking, at the drop of a plectrum.
This his fourth album – it comes with an excellent mix of songs and a super mix of musicians.
Danny is a recipient of the Toronto Blues Society’s “Blues With Feeling” Award for lifetime
achievement, and on this showing it is a well-considered accolade. Mr. Marks does indeed deliver
his blues with a feeling and long may he continue so to do. Strongly recommended.
(Adapted from Blues Blast Reviewer, Ian McKenzie)
MARCH 2013
17
Showcase Your Music!
Blues Revue members are considered by many to be the most
knowledgeable and informed blues music fans around the world,
not to mention passionate.
Interested in sharing your music with
The Tribe at Blues Revue? Call 888-565-0554
Pam Taylor did! We spotted her Hot Mess cover in the
Artist Showcase #2 distribution from Blues Revue.
The highlighted tune was “All the Same to Me.”
Readers of Blues Revue got a chance to click on
the album cover and download the tune to mp3.
John Németh
Blues Live
(Self-release – 1 of 2)
It is commonly understood that the best music, no matter what genre, happens live on stage
where the artist/band can interact with the audience and feed off their energy. After deciding to
release two live projects on his own, one focusing on blues and the other on his soulful side,
Németh was rewarded with five Blues Music Award nominations, including B.B. King Entertainer
of the Year, Contemporary Blues Album, Instrumentalist – Harmonica, Soul-Blues Album, and
Soul-Blues Male Artist. It is quite an accomplishment and one listen to the blues disc quickly settles any doubts one might have about Németh getting so much acclaim.
Right from the start Németh's voice delivers an emotional wallop which he matches with some
hard blowing on his harp. His songwriting skills are highlighted with seven songs that clearly
illustrates his deep understanding of blues traditions. The tracks come from three California
shows recorded over an eight day stretch last year. The band is with Németh every step of the way.
. Whether it's his electrifying vocals or tasty harp playing, John Németh delivers outstanding performances throughout a firstrate collection of material. After you hear it, there will be no doubt in your mind that Németh deserves any of the honors that
come his way – making this one highly recommended!.
(Adapted from Blues Blast Reviewer Mark Thompson)
John Németh
Soul Live
(Self-release – 2 of 2)
The second of a set of live recordings that display the full scope of John Németh's talents, this
one focuses on his skill as a blue-eyed soul singer and songwriter. These tracks catch his voice
getting down and dirty in a lower register one minute, then soaring to a spine-tingling soul shout
the next. His passionate renderings make each of his nine originals sound like tunes rescued from
vintage soul albums from decades past.
Besides Contemporary Blues Album and Instrumentalist – Harmonica, Németh also received
recognition for Soul Blues Album and Male Soul Blues Artist. You would be hard-pressed to think
of any other musician, with the possible exceptions of Curtis Salgado or Bobby Rush, who could
duplicate this level of success in two different styles of music.
Wasting no time, Németh and his crack band settle into a funky vamp on “Blue Broadway” that
recalls a Wilson Pickett hit of a similar vein. Németh may not be able to match the gritty edge of the wicked Pickett but he can
grab your heartstrings with a sweet, passionate tone that won't let go.
By the time the CD’s over, you will have fallen under the spell of this bold statement from an immensely talented artist who
can hit you with romantic charm or gut-bucket intensity. Don't miss it – highly recommended!!.
(Adapted from Blues Blast Reviewer Mark Thompson)
(18)
Bluesletter
The Bluesletter is published monthly by the
www.charlottebluessociety.org
Charlotte Blues Society
PO Box 32752
Charlotte, NC28232-2752
The Charlotte Blues Society (CBS) is dedicated to the promotion
and preservation of the American Blues tradition through the presentation
of concerts, forums, workshops, and educational programs in Charlotte and
surrounding areas. Founded in the Spring of 1993, CBS has steadily
grown in membership and popularity in support of this musical art form.
CBS is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization governed by a Board of
Directors and is an affiliated member of The Blues Foundation the
umbrella organization for a worldwide network of 165 affiliated Blues
societies and has individual memberships around the globe. The Blues
Foundation produces the Blues Music Awards, Keeping the Blues Alive
Awards, Blues Hall of Fame Induction, and the International Blues
Challenge.
CBS members gather on “BLUESunday,” the 1st Sunday of each
month, 8:00 PM, at The Double Door Inn.
Meetings include
announcements and updates, special guests, and an Open Mic Blues Jam.
BLUESunday is free to CBS members and only $5.00 for non-members.
The Board of Directors also meets every 1st Sunday. Meetings are open to
the membership.
Members receive a monthly newsletter and free admission to monthly
meeting entertainment (unless otherwise posted). In addition, members
receive discounts and co-sponsored or CBS-advertised events. Annual
dues (12-month period) are $20~ Individual, $35 ~ Family, and
$75 ~ Sponsor Membership. Corporate sponsorships and individual
contributions are welcome and are tax deductible (excluding dues).
The CBS Bluesletter is published monthly and distributed to
approximately 600 readers. It includes information on Society activities, a
local blues calendar, and a variety of blues-related items of interest.
CBS is proud to call The Double Door Inn home. The Double Door
Inn, winner of the 1994 Keeping the Blues Alive award from The Blues
Foundation, is located at 1218 Charlottetowne Ave., Charlotte, NC (704376-1446) Over the past 38 years, the DDI’s stage lights have shined on
Willie Dixon, Koko Taylor, Lil’ Ed & the Blues Imperials, Marcia Ball,
Saffire ~ The Uppity Blues Women, Lonnie Brooks, Eddy “the Chief”
Clearwater, Stevie Ray Vaughan, and Luther Allison, just to name a few.
(And that doesn’t even include the countless local and regional performers
who otherwise would not have had a stage to stand on.) Thank you,
Double Door, for all your support for live blues, zydeco, reggae, Americana,
and most of all, your support of the Charlotte Blues Society!
SMF PBN: 1938390
OFFICERS AND BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Jeri Thompson, President
Rick Ballew, Vice-President
(tbd), Secretary
(tbd), Treasurer
Phil Beam
Jill Dineen
704-488-9608
Dick Gilland
Larry Pace
Betsy Norton-Stowe
Nick Polyzos
Michael Simonetti
Advisors: Beth Pollhammer, Bill Buck,
Rita Miller, Michael Simonetti
BLUESLETTER STAFF & CONTRIBUTORS
Bluesletter Staff— Rita Miller, Michael Simonetti
Contributing Articles/Photos– Jeri Thompson, Rick Ballew, Rita Miller,
Jan Jenson, Ron Hargett,
Artists, Media, & Websites
Memberships / Address Changes - www.charlottebluessociety.org
Printing Services - International Minute Press, South Blvd, Charlotte
Submissions Welcome!
Blues Articles, CD Reviews, Concert Reviews, Interviews,
Calendar Events, Advertising, News Releases

Items due no later than the 15th of the month for the following
month’s issue.

Items received beyond deadline will be used the following month,
if still timely.
Scanned or digital photos should be e-mailed to the editor; other
photos are also accepted and will be returned.
(Note: Photos with matte finish or screen print may not reproduce
as sharp as glossy prints.)
Articles may be edited for brevity or clarity, unless otherwise
requested by the writer. (Please do not exceed 500 words for
articles or 300 words for reviews.)


Views expressed by the writers do not necessarily reflect
those of CBS or its members
You can help increase revenue by selling (or buying) advertising in the
Bluesletter.
Our rates are very inexpensive compared to other local
newsletters … and now that previous issues are posted on our website, your ad
can be viewed by more readers for a longer period of time.
Ads are due by the 10th of the month for the following month’s issue.
Ads must be pre-paid unless billing arrangements have been approved.
(Federal Tax ID available upon request)
Contacts for questions are:
- Betsy at [email protected] (704-351-3848)
- Rita at [email protected] (980-226-0917)
(Print this page as a handout for ad sales!)
MONTHLY RATES
$ 15 ............... Business Card
$ 40 ............... Quarter Page
$ 75 ............... Half Page
$125 .............. Full Page
Package Rates Available
10% discount to CBS members
(excluding business card)
Due to e-mail distribution, we can
now accept ads related to finance,
insurance, or credit cards.
MARCH 2013
19
The Bluesletter is published monthly by the
www.charlottebluessociety.org
Charlotte Blues Society
PO Box 32752
Charlotte, NC28232-2752
Something New for 2011!
You can now renew your membership online at
www.CharlotteBluesSociety.org.
We have a new email-able form and PayPal Button.
Just go to the Membership page and click!
Membership Application
PLEASE PRINT
Name:
Address:
_________________________________________________
_______________________________________________
_______________________________________________
Phone (Day):__________________
(Night): __________________
E-mail: _________________________________________________
(Not shared – Used only for Blues updates and late-breaking news!)
Please list members’ names for Membership Cards:
________________________
_________________________
________________________
_________________________
HOW DID YOU HEAR ABOUT CBS?
[
[
[
[
] Web Search
[ ] The Double Door Inn
[ ] News Media
] Concert / Festival
________________________________
] Other __________________________________________
] Referred by: _____________________________________
SMF PBN: 1938390
Today’s Date: _________________
[ ] New Member
[ ] Renewal
MEMBER CATEGORY:
[ ]
[ ]
[ ]
e-mail / postal
Individual ........... $20 / $25
Family (2-4) ....... $35 / $40
Sponsor ............. $75 / $80
(includes Qtr page ad
or T-shirt) Size: __________
VOLUNTEERS ALWAYS NEEDED:
[
[
[
[
[
[
[
]
]
]
]
]
]
]
Merchandise Sales
Membership Development
Fundraising / Sponsorships
Educational Programs
Promotion / Publicity
Festivals / Event Booths
Bluesletter / Writing / Photos
ARE YOU A MUSICIAN?
[ ] Yes
[ ] No
[ ] vocalist
[ ] Instrument(s)
____________________________
If you are a CBS member who still gets your Bluesletter by “Snail Mail,”please send us your e-mail address
for faster delivery … and it’s in COLOR!
(On-line delivery saves postage and helps the environment.)
Turn Your Radio On!
Mondays, 6:00-9:00 PM .................... WSGE 91.7 FM
“Hwy 321 Blues”
Mondays, 11:00 PM-12:00 AM ............ WGWG 88.3 FM
“Blues & Roots”
Tuesdays, 6:00-9:00 PM ................... WSGE 91.7 FM
“Hwy 321 Blues”
Wednesdays, 6:00-9:00 PM ............... WSGE 91.7 FM
“Hwy 321 Blues”
Fridays, 11:00 PM-12:00 AM............... WGWG 88.3 FM
“Blues & Roots”
Saturdays, 7:00-11:00 PM ................ WNCW 88.7 FM
“Saturday Night House Party”
Saturdays, 9:00-12:00 PM ................ WFAE 90.7 FM
“Blues Central”
Please help us stay current – send radio updates to [email protected]
(20)
Bluesletter