I'm excited to announce that since I'm always at KNON on Thanksgiving morning (Thanksgiving is always a Thursday), I have decided to do something extra special this year and open the show up to a studio audience!
Your $20 ticket gets you:
A seat in the studio for the live show
A Thanksgiving Continental Breakfast
A copy of the KNON Texas Blues Radio Vol 4 CD
Live Blues in the studio:
9:20 - 9:40 - Dallas's newest Blues Diva, 14 year old Kayla Reeves
10:20 - 10:40 - Andrea Dawson & Jackie Don Loe
11:20 - 11:40 - Cheryl Arena & Aaron Burton
Doors for this special broadcast will open at 8:30 a.m. at the KNON studio located at 5353 Maple (the corner of Maple and Butler). My BIG TEXAS BLUES show will air as usual from 9 am until Noon, with one important difference - YOU can be there live in the studio with me!
And yeah, I'll be doing all that Thanksgiving stuff I do every year, like offering Turkey and Thanksgiving trivia, and help for all your Turkey Emergencies!!
For more info, check out KNON's web site at http://www.knon.org/. For tickets, call 214-237-3003, or get yours from me at any of my gigs.
Because of space limitations, only 50 tickets are available, so get your's today. Matter of fact, at this moment, less than 50 are available, because they began selling the moment we announced this last night on KNON.
What a great way to kick off your holiday season! See the lovely new KNON studio! Help KNON raise much needed funds! Partake in some delicious food! Be treated to awesome Blues by some of Dallas's most talked about Diva's and guitarists! Take home some fabulous CD's!
You'll be sorry if you wait too long on this! When the tickets are gone, they are gone - we can't squeeze another body past 50 in. So don't be a turkey, get your tickets now!!
Thursday, November 02, 2006
Thursday, October 19, 2006
DIVAWEEN AT NATE'S SEAFOOD
Looking for something really fun to do on Halloween this year?
Join Blue Lisa, Andrea Dawson, Jackie Don Loe, Chuck "Popcorn" Lowden and Jay Dronge for a very special night of blues tricks and treats on Halloween, or as Andrea calls it, "DIVAween" at Nate's Seafood in Addison, Tuesday, October 31 from 7 pm until 11 pm. This is Nate's 18th Annual Halloween Celebration, but I do believe it's his first DIVAween!
It will be THE place to be on Halloween night. Great food, the best blues in town, and a costume contest. (Can't wait to see what Nate himself comes as!) Winners of the costume contest will receive gift certificates from Nate's - 1st Prize - $100.00 gift vertificate, 2nd Prize - $75.00 gift certificate and 3rd Prize $25.00 gift certificate. Now there's a prize worth competing for! That yummy Nate's gumbo. And oh-my-goodness that bread pudding!! Makes me hungry just to think about it!!
You can be sure that all kinds of craziness will be going on. Thank heavens for all our reputations that as Jackie Don says "What happens at Nate's stays at Nate's!"
For directions check out www.natesseafood.com
Be there, Darlings, for a frightfully good time!!
Join Blue Lisa, Andrea Dawson, Jackie Don Loe, Chuck "Popcorn" Lowden and Jay Dronge for a very special night of blues tricks and treats on Halloween, or as Andrea calls it, "DIVAween" at Nate's Seafood in Addison, Tuesday, October 31 from 7 pm until 11 pm. This is Nate's 18th Annual Halloween Celebration, but I do believe it's his first DIVAween!
It will be THE place to be on Halloween night. Great food, the best blues in town, and a costume contest. (Can't wait to see what Nate himself comes as!) Winners of the costume contest will receive gift certificates from Nate's - 1st Prize - $100.00 gift vertificate, 2nd Prize - $75.00 gift certificate and 3rd Prize $25.00 gift certificate. Now there's a prize worth competing for! That yummy Nate's gumbo. And oh-my-goodness that bread pudding!! Makes me hungry just to think about it!!
You can be sure that all kinds of craziness will be going on. Thank heavens for all our reputations that as Jackie Don says "What happens at Nate's stays at Nate's!"
For directions check out www.natesseafood.com
Be there, Darlings, for a frightfully good time!!
Friday, October 13, 2006
NATE AT THE STATE FAIR OF TEXAS
Just a heads up that Chef Nathan Peck, known to blues fans and lovers of fabulous cajun food worldwide as Nate, will be presenting a cooking demonstration as a Celebrity Chef this Saturday afternoon at 2:30 pm in the Creative Arts Building at the Great State Fair of Texas!
Blue Lisa is such a fan of Nate's seafood gumbo, that she has to have it at least once a week, or suffers terrible withdrawl!
Nate is a tireless supporter of Blue Lisa's KNON Big Texs Blues radio show, Blue Lisa & the T-Bonz, and all the blues musicians in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area.
And you just haven't lived until you've seen him doing the "Nate Boogie."
So take advantage of this rare opportunity to see the master at work. Admission to the cooking demo is free with your paid admission to the State Fair.
For more info about the State Fair of Texas, visit www.BigTex.com.
Blue Lisa is such a fan of Nate's seafood gumbo, that she has to have it at least once a week, or suffers terrible withdrawl!
Nate is a tireless supporter of Blue Lisa's KNON Big Texs Blues radio show, Blue Lisa & the T-Bonz, and all the blues musicians in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area.
And you just haven't lived until you've seen him doing the "Nate Boogie."
So take advantage of this rare opportunity to see the master at work. Admission to the cooking demo is free with your paid admission to the State Fair.
For more info about the State Fair of Texas, visit www.BigTex.com.
SOUTHWEST BLUES HERITAGE FOUNDATION FESTIVAL
Blue Lisa & the T-Bonz are honored to be a part of this years Southwest Blues Heritage Foundation Bluesfest in memory of our friend, Sweet Sammy Myers. We are also excited to have with us as our special guest for this show, 17 year old guitarist Jessica Munn!
What: 6TH ANNUAL SOUTHWEST BLUES HERITAGE FOUNDATION BLUESFEST IN MEMORY OF SAM MYERS
When: SATURDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2006 Doors open at 1, music starts at 2 pm and goes on until 2 am!
Where: COWBOY SPORTS CAFÉ9454 N. MACARTHUR BLVD.IRVING, TX(972) 506-8088 in Valley Ranch
Who: 2 pm - Joel Foy
3pm - Some guys I really like with a complete jackass on lead guitar
4 pm - Blue Lisa & The T-Bonz w/ Jessica Munn
5 pm - Cheryl Arena & Aaron Burton
6 pm - Ray Reed
7 pm - Holland K.Smith
8 pm - Dennis Cavalier
9 pm - The Browntones
10 pm - Anson Funderburgh
11 pm - Lou Hampton & Jackie Don Loe
Midnight - Andrea D. Blues Band
1 am - Juke Joint Playboys
TICKETS: $15 ADVANCE / $18 DOOR
COME READY TO PARTY ALL NIGHTLONG!!!!!!!!!!!
THERE WILL BE RAFFLES AND A SILENT AUCTION THATINCLUDES A GUITAR SIGNED BY ALL THE MUSICIANS THAT PLAYED AT SAM MYERS’ BENEFIT LAST YEAR AT THE GRANADA THEATRE INCLUDING ANSON FUNDERBURGH, DELBERT MCCLINTON AND JIMMIE VAUGHAN!
FOR INFO CALL: (214) 887-1188 OR (214) 328-4141
EMAIL: SWBHF@sbcglobal.net
www.swbluesheritagefoundation.com
This festival benefits the Southwest Blues HeritageFoundation, Inc., organized by Southwest BluesMagazine. SWBHF is a non-profit 501(c) 3, allvolunteer corporate organization founded in 2001 forthe purpose of supporting and promoting BluesMusicians and Blues Music. The primary goals are to help educate the musicians so they can further their careers; provide financial relief for the musicians and their families; and to preserve, promote and perpetuate Blues Music for the Southwestern Region ofthe U.S.A. All proceeds from this event go directly into a fund established to help the blues musiciansand are tax-deductible.
What: 6TH ANNUAL SOUTHWEST BLUES HERITAGE FOUNDATION BLUESFEST IN MEMORY OF SAM MYERS
When: SATURDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2006 Doors open at 1, music starts at 2 pm and goes on until 2 am!
Where: COWBOY SPORTS CAFÉ9454 N. MACARTHUR BLVD.IRVING, TX(972) 506-8088 in Valley Ranch
Who: 2 pm - Joel Foy
3pm - Some guys I really like with a complete jackass on lead guitar
4 pm - Blue Lisa & The T-Bonz w/ Jessica Munn
5 pm - Cheryl Arena & Aaron Burton
6 pm - Ray Reed
7 pm - Holland K.Smith
8 pm - Dennis Cavalier
9 pm - The Browntones
10 pm - Anson Funderburgh
11 pm - Lou Hampton & Jackie Don Loe
Midnight - Andrea D. Blues Band
1 am - Juke Joint Playboys
TICKETS: $15 ADVANCE / $18 DOOR
COME READY TO PARTY ALL NIGHTLONG!!!!!!!!!!!
THERE WILL BE RAFFLES AND A SILENT AUCTION THATINCLUDES A GUITAR SIGNED BY ALL THE MUSICIANS THAT PLAYED AT SAM MYERS’ BENEFIT LAST YEAR AT THE GRANADA THEATRE INCLUDING ANSON FUNDERBURGH, DELBERT MCCLINTON AND JIMMIE VAUGHAN!
FOR INFO CALL: (214) 887-1188 OR (214) 328-4141
EMAIL: SWBHF@sbcglobal.net
www.swbluesheritagefoundation.com
This festival benefits the Southwest Blues HeritageFoundation, Inc., organized by Southwest BluesMagazine. SWBHF is a non-profit 501(c) 3, allvolunteer corporate organization founded in 2001 forthe purpose of supporting and promoting BluesMusicians and Blues Music. The primary goals are to help educate the musicians so they can further their careers; provide financial relief for the musicians and their families; and to preserve, promote and perpetuate Blues Music for the Southwestern Region ofthe U.S.A. All proceeds from this event go directly into a fund established to help the blues musiciansand are tax-deductible.
Monday, October 02, 2006
SUNDAY'S SHOW AT KC'S
Don't say I didn't warn you. If you missed it, get ready to start hearing about it all over the place.
What a great time last night at KC's. Pat Boyack, Red Young and Brian "H-Bomb" Ferguson put on an awesome show, with a number of guests setting in, including myself, Cheryl Arena, Andrea Dawson, Ponty Bone, Hash Brown (popping in to play before heading over for the first night of his brand new jam in North Dallas), and the one and only Mr. Joe Jonas, in MY opinion, the best blues vocalist in this (and probably every other) area. I was honored to get invited up, but damn, did it have to be right after Andrea? She's my friend and I love her, but she's a tough act to follow!
Joanna Iz, publisher of "Southwest Blues Magazine", was in the house, and I saw her taking pictures, so hopefully some of those will end up in the magazine. (The October issue is on the streets. Be sure to check out my reviews of the new Cheryl Arena and Aaron Burton CD "Good Old Wagon", and also a cool new CD, "Lucky 13", from Australian singer/guitarist Fiona Boyes.)
Every week I tell you on BIG TEXAS BLUES to go out and see some live blues and support the scene, and this show was a true example of just that. Much, much thanks to Jeff & Robin Horton, Swag (also known as Mr & Mrs Salty), Jim Weiss, and Chuck Nevitt, all of whom put their money where their mouths were and made the whole thing possible.
Quite the night of funky blues in the super cool juke joint setting of KC's. Wow.
What a great time last night at KC's. Pat Boyack, Red Young and Brian "H-Bomb" Ferguson put on an awesome show, with a number of guests setting in, including myself, Cheryl Arena, Andrea Dawson, Ponty Bone, Hash Brown (popping in to play before heading over for the first night of his brand new jam in North Dallas), and the one and only Mr. Joe Jonas, in MY opinion, the best blues vocalist in this (and probably every other) area. I was honored to get invited up, but damn, did it have to be right after Andrea? She's my friend and I love her, but she's a tough act to follow!
Joanna Iz, publisher of "Southwest Blues Magazine", was in the house, and I saw her taking pictures, so hopefully some of those will end up in the magazine. (The October issue is on the streets. Be sure to check out my reviews of the new Cheryl Arena and Aaron Burton CD "Good Old Wagon", and also a cool new CD, "Lucky 13", from Australian singer/guitarist Fiona Boyes.)
Every week I tell you on BIG TEXAS BLUES to go out and see some live blues and support the scene, and this show was a true example of just that. Much, much thanks to Jeff & Robin Horton, Swag (also known as Mr & Mrs Salty), Jim Weiss, and Chuck Nevitt, all of whom put their money where their mouths were and made the whole thing possible.
Quite the night of funky blues in the super cool juke joint setting of KC's. Wow.
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
DENNY FREEMAN ARTICLE
Check out this article about Denny Freeman that will be in the new Bob Dylan Encyclopedia!
http://spacemonkeylab.com/dylandaily/blog/archives/00000196.php
Thanks to Chuck Nevitt of Dallas Blues Society Records for making me aware of this. (And for putting out my favorite Denny Freeman CD, "A Tone For My Sins").
http://spacemonkeylab.com/dylandaily/blog/archives/00000196.php
Thanks to Chuck Nevitt of Dallas Blues Society Records for making me aware of this. (And for putting out my favorite Denny Freeman CD, "A Tone For My Sins").
Friday, September 15, 2006
FINALLY, A LOU ANN BARTON WEB SITE!!
Over the years, I have checked periodically, but today www.LouAnnBarton.com actually came up when I searched for it!
Lou Ann is the reason I got into the blues. See her whenever and everytime you get the chance to. This woman is the real deal.
The first show I ever saw of hers, one show, one night, changed my whole life. Without her influence on me, I wouldn't be a Blue Lisa, and there would be no BIG TEXAS BLUES radio program.
If I was ever stranded on a deserted island, and allowed to bring only one CD, it would be Lou Ann's "Read My Lips" on the Antones label. If you don't own it, I strongly suggest you run (don't walk) to the nearest record store and buy a copy. Now. RIGHT NOW.
Lou Ann is the reason I got into the blues. See her whenever and everytime you get the chance to. This woman is the real deal.
The first show I ever saw of hers, one show, one night, changed my whole life. Without her influence on me, I wouldn't be a Blue Lisa, and there would be no BIG TEXAS BLUES radio program.
If I was ever stranded on a deserted island, and allowed to bring only one CD, it would be Lou Ann's "Read My Lips" on the Antones label. If you don't own it, I strongly suggest you run (don't walk) to the nearest record store and buy a copy. Now. RIGHT NOW.
Thursday, September 14, 2006
ANN RICHARDS PASSES
It was with great sadness I learned today of the passing last night of Ann Richards, former governor of the great state of Texas.
I was always a Ann Richards fan for a number of reasons. One, of course, was that she was a strong woman leader, encouraging other women and minorities to get involved with politics on a local, state and national level. Quoting her obituary in the New York Times today:
A champion of civil rights for minorities, gays and women, Ms. Richards first ran for governor calling for a “New Texas” that would offer more opportunity and power to those groups.
As governor, among other achievements, she fulfilled her campaign promise to bring more blacks, Hispanics and women into public office. She appointed the first black regent to the University of Texas and installed the first blacks and women on the state's legendary police force, the Texas Rangers. She also pushed for harsher penalties for polluters and gained control of the state’s insurance board in a drive to reduce the industry’s influence over state government.
Ms. Richards oversaw an expansion of the state’s prison system, increasing the space for prisoners by a third, and cracked down on the number of prisoners being paroled. She also instituted a major substance abuse program for prisoners. And she championed the creation of the Texas lottery as a source of public school financing. She bought the first scratch-off ticket herself on May 29, 1992.
She also was a tireless supporter of the arts in Texas, promoting Texas culture and the arts every where she went. Have to love that. I've always thought a world without the arts is a gray and bleak place indeed. That is one of the reasons I've gotten up early every Thursday morning for nearly seven years now to go down to KNON as an unpaid volunteer and bring you BIG TEXAS BLUES. Everyone needs to believe in something. I believe in the Blues. And I believed in Ann Richards.
I worked on Ann's campaign for re-election because I believed so strongly in what she stood for, the things that she had accomplished as Governor, and all the things she still wanted to get done.
One of the things I did was man the phones in the evenings, calling people who had voted for Ann in 1990. I considered myself fairly politically savvy, but was not prepared for what happened. Which was this. I would call people, thank them for voting for Governor Richards in the first election, and say "We hope we can count on your support in this election." Time after time I heard this a version of this "I like Ann. I think she's been a good governor. I think she's been good for Texas. But I'm a Republican, and I'm going to vote Bush."
The first time I heard it, I was literally speechless. They voted for her, liked her and thought she was doing a good job, AND YET WERE GOING TO VOTE FOR SOMEONE ELSE. I heard it so often, I quickly became numb to it, but by the end I was just disgusted. That kind of blind following scares the hell out of me. I hope it scares the hell out of all of you too. I just don't understand the logic of voting for someone, them getting into office and doing the things you wanted them to do, and then voting for someone else. I don't get it because there is no logic to it. Whatever.
No politician is perfect, and none are without fault, but to me Ann Richards embodied the Great State of Texas and was a superb representative of ALL it's people. With her quick wit, tall white Texas hairdo, and strong opinions, she was as much a Texas icon as Big Tex and the Lone Star Flag itself. Ann Richards was as Texan as they come. God bless her for it
I was always a Ann Richards fan for a number of reasons. One, of course, was that she was a strong woman leader, encouraging other women and minorities to get involved with politics on a local, state and national level. Quoting her obituary in the New York Times today:
A champion of civil rights for minorities, gays and women, Ms. Richards first ran for governor calling for a “New Texas” that would offer more opportunity and power to those groups.
As governor, among other achievements, she fulfilled her campaign promise to bring more blacks, Hispanics and women into public office. She appointed the first black regent to the University of Texas and installed the first blacks and women on the state's legendary police force, the Texas Rangers. She also pushed for harsher penalties for polluters and gained control of the state’s insurance board in a drive to reduce the industry’s influence over state government.
Ms. Richards oversaw an expansion of the state’s prison system, increasing the space for prisoners by a third, and cracked down on the number of prisoners being paroled. She also instituted a major substance abuse program for prisoners. And she championed the creation of the Texas lottery as a source of public school financing. She bought the first scratch-off ticket herself on May 29, 1992.
She also was a tireless supporter of the arts in Texas, promoting Texas culture and the arts every where she went. Have to love that. I've always thought a world without the arts is a gray and bleak place indeed. That is one of the reasons I've gotten up early every Thursday morning for nearly seven years now to go down to KNON as an unpaid volunteer and bring you BIG TEXAS BLUES. Everyone needs to believe in something. I believe in the Blues. And I believed in Ann Richards.
I worked on Ann's campaign for re-election because I believed so strongly in what she stood for, the things that she had accomplished as Governor, and all the things she still wanted to get done.
One of the things I did was man the phones in the evenings, calling people who had voted for Ann in 1990. I considered myself fairly politically savvy, but was not prepared for what happened. Which was this. I would call people, thank them for voting for Governor Richards in the first election, and say "We hope we can count on your support in this election." Time after time I heard this a version of this "I like Ann. I think she's been a good governor. I think she's been good for Texas. But I'm a Republican, and I'm going to vote Bush."
The first time I heard it, I was literally speechless. They voted for her, liked her and thought she was doing a good job, AND YET WERE GOING TO VOTE FOR SOMEONE ELSE. I heard it so often, I quickly became numb to it, but by the end I was just disgusted. That kind of blind following scares the hell out of me. I hope it scares the hell out of all of you too. I just don't understand the logic of voting for someone, them getting into office and doing the things you wanted them to do, and then voting for someone else. I don't get it because there is no logic to it. Whatever.
No politician is perfect, and none are without fault, but to me Ann Richards embodied the Great State of Texas and was a superb representative of ALL it's people. With her quick wit, tall white Texas hairdo, and strong opinions, she was as much a Texas icon as Big Tex and the Lone Star Flag itself. Ann Richards was as Texan as they come. God bless her for it
ADVANCE WARNING OF SURE TO BE AWESOME UPCOMING SHOW!
Mark your calendar folks for Sunday, October 1 from 6 pm to 10 pm.
The line up is Pat Boyack on guitar, Red Young on organ and Brian "H-Bomb" Ferguson on drums, plus special guests. Rumor is at least some of those special guests will be selected Dallas Blues Diva's.
The place: KC's in South Dallas. There is no more real a juke joint in Dallas than KC's! The patron's of KC's know how to party and have a good time, and they really know good music. KC's is located at 3317 Malcome X Blvd, 214-421-3051.
This awesome line-up + this fabulous place = one night of music to remember.
I'm telling you folks, this will be one of those shows people will talk about for years. Don't just hear about it later, be there and be part of it!
The line up is Pat Boyack on guitar, Red Young on organ and Brian "H-Bomb" Ferguson on drums, plus special guests. Rumor is at least some of those special guests will be selected Dallas Blues Diva's.
The place: KC's in South Dallas. There is no more real a juke joint in Dallas than KC's! The patron's of KC's know how to party and have a good time, and they really know good music. KC's is located at 3317 Malcome X Blvd, 214-421-3051.
This awesome line-up + this fabulous place = one night of music to remember.
I'm telling you folks, this will be one of those shows people will talk about for years. Don't just hear about it later, be there and be part of it!
ALREADY, A NEW WEDNESDAY NIGHT HASH BROWN JAM!
This man moves at the speed of light! Shortly after I received the e-mail from Hash about the end of the Hole jam, I got this message from him:
Subject: HASH BROWN MOVES WEDNESDAY NIGHT JAM!Hey everybody, I just wanted to let everyone know that althoughtonite is the last night of the wednesday night jam atthe Hole in the Wall, Next week is the first week ofthe NEW HASH BROWN WEDNESDAY NIGHT JAM! WHERE : MARDI GRAS CAFE 2720 N. STEMMONS FREEWAY(ONTHE ACCESS ROAD NORTH OF THE MOTOR STREET EXIT, RIGHTHAND SIDE IN THE BOTTOM OF THE MIDDLE WHITE TOWER-LOOK FOR THE AWNING!) PH-214.404.8425 WHEN: WEDNESDAY NIGHTS, 9-1, STARTING SEPTEMBER 20TH! PLUS: CLEAN REST ROOMS, GREAT FOOD, FUN AND CLEANENVIROMENT TO JAM IN! HOPE TO SEE EVERYONE OUT THERE! THANKS, HB
They don't call him the "Jam-meister of the Known Universe" for nothing!
Subject: HASH BROWN MOVES WEDNESDAY NIGHT JAM!Hey everybody, I just wanted to let everyone know that althoughtonite is the last night of the wednesday night jam atthe Hole in the Wall, Next week is the first week ofthe NEW HASH BROWN WEDNESDAY NIGHT JAM! WHERE : MARDI GRAS CAFE 2720 N. STEMMONS FREEWAY(ONTHE ACCESS ROAD NORTH OF THE MOTOR STREET EXIT, RIGHTHAND SIDE IN THE BOTTOM OF THE MIDDLE WHITE TOWER-LOOK FOR THE AWNING!) PH-214.404.8425 WHEN: WEDNESDAY NIGHTS, 9-1, STARTING SEPTEMBER 20TH! PLUS: CLEAN REST ROOMS, GREAT FOOD, FUN AND CLEANENVIROMENT TO JAM IN! HOPE TO SEE EVERYONE OUT THERE! THANKS, HB
They don't call him the "Jam-meister of the Known Universe" for nothing!
Tuesday, September 12, 2006
END OF HASH BROWN'S HOLE IN THE WALL JAM
I just received this e-mail from Hash Brown:
Sad news indeed!
I just got off the phone with Tom Ford, the owner over at the Hole in the wall. He informed me that this wednesday would be the last Hash Brown Hole in the Wall jam. Because of rising costs and declining revenues, he is unable to pay us the monies we make on wednesdays(the same pay without a raise for over 10 of the 12 years we have been there). He is contemplating closing during the week on nights, but i assume he will get someone to work for a percentage, which we will not do. I invite everyone to come out and help give the jam a good viking/new orleans funeral. I also wish Tom and the crew at the Hole the best in future endeavors. It has been an unforgetable 12 1/2 years!
yours,
Hash Brown
And so there we have it folks. This year has seen the demise of both Hash's Bone Jam and The Hole In The Wall Jam, the longest running jams in Dallas.
Not a good sign of the times.
I say it every week on my show when I give the live music calendar, but I'm going to say it again here. Get out and support live music, because if you don't, it will go away.
Sad news indeed!
I just got off the phone with Tom Ford, the owner over at the Hole in the wall. He informed me that this wednesday would be the last Hash Brown Hole in the Wall jam. Because of rising costs and declining revenues, he is unable to pay us the monies we make on wednesdays(the same pay without a raise for over 10 of the 12 years we have been there). He is contemplating closing during the week on nights, but i assume he will get someone to work for a percentage, which we will not do. I invite everyone to come out and help give the jam a good viking/new orleans funeral. I also wish Tom and the crew at the Hole the best in future endeavors. It has been an unforgetable 12 1/2 years!
yours,
Hash Brown
And so there we have it folks. This year has seen the demise of both Hash's Bone Jam and The Hole In The Wall Jam, the longest running jams in Dallas.
Not a good sign of the times.
I say it every week on my show when I give the live music calendar, but I'm going to say it again here. Get out and support live music, because if you don't, it will go away.
Thursday, August 31, 2006
IF YOU ARE A TEXAN BY BIRTH OR A TEXAN BY HEART......
The Texas Highway Department's anti-litter slogan "Don't Mess With Texas" has been nominated for a very prestigious advertising award. If it were to win, a Bronze Plaque would be placed on Madison Avenue's "Advertising Walk of Fame" in New York City and would also get a permanent place at the Advertising Icon Museum in Kansas City.
Please go to the Advertising Week Favorite Slogan's Website http://advertising.yahoo.com/advertisingweek_06/slogan_poll.html and vote!
The competition is tough, like "Got Milk? "What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas"; "The breakfast of Champions"; and others; so please vote before September 29, 2006 and tell your fellow Texans to do likewise.
Wouldn't it be cool for New Yorkers to have to walk past a Bronze Plaque every day that said, "DON'T MESS WITH TEXAS?"
PS Please pass this on to all of your Texas friends!! This is a matter of "Texas Pride"! We can win this if everybody forwards the link to their friends, and they vote. Do it now.
Please go to the Advertising Week Favorite Slogan's Website http://advertising.yahoo.com/advertisingweek_06/slogan_poll.html and vote!
The competition is tough, like "Got Milk? "What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas"; "The breakfast of Champions"; and others; so please vote before September 29, 2006 and tell your fellow Texans to do likewise.
Wouldn't it be cool for New Yorkers to have to walk past a Bronze Plaque every day that said, "DON'T MESS WITH TEXAS?"
PS Please pass this on to all of your Texas friends!! This is a matter of "Texas Pride"! We can win this if everybody forwards the link to their friends, and they vote. Do it now.
Monday, August 28, 2006
GREAT TIME AT THE TX INT'L BLUESFEST
What a great time I had at the Texas International Bluesfest on Saturday! The T-Bonz and I were already in a festive mood since it was Jim Hunton's birthday, but the enthusiastic response we received from the crowd really made our night!
I didn't get there in time to see all the acts (I hear Dallas's newest Blues Diva, 13 year old Kayla Reeves and her band Triple Threat were awesome - no surprise to me!), but I caught Cookie McGee's masterful set, and it was great to get to hang out with our friends The Silvertones, who not only played a fabulous set of their own, but then backed up Mr. Cold Blue Steel himself, James Buck.
My boys looked amazing and played even better! I dare say my boys were the eye candy of the evening - and ladies, you know how I like some eye candy at my shows! I was very, very proud to be on stage with all of them. Special thanks to Mick Carr for sitting in with us on drums. We owe you one!
And thanks again to James Buck for including us on the bill for this years Bluesfest, and for inviting me and Jim up to be part of his closing set! It was a fun night for us James. Thank you SO MUCH.
For the next 5 days, you can see pictures of us onstage at the Bluesfest taken by my friend Ginny Ivey by clicking this link: http://server.inalbum.com/cgi-bin/ia20/i2_view?117028682313234604541770361907
I didn't get there in time to see all the acts (I hear Dallas's newest Blues Diva, 13 year old Kayla Reeves and her band Triple Threat were awesome - no surprise to me!), but I caught Cookie McGee's masterful set, and it was great to get to hang out with our friends The Silvertones, who not only played a fabulous set of their own, but then backed up Mr. Cold Blue Steel himself, James Buck.
My boys looked amazing and played even better! I dare say my boys were the eye candy of the evening - and ladies, you know how I like some eye candy at my shows! I was very, very proud to be on stage with all of them. Special thanks to Mick Carr for sitting in with us on drums. We owe you one!
And thanks again to James Buck for including us on the bill for this years Bluesfest, and for inviting me and Jim up to be part of his closing set! It was a fun night for us James. Thank you SO MUCH.
For the next 5 days, you can see pictures of us onstage at the Bluesfest taken by my friend Ginny Ivey by clicking this link: http://server.inalbum.com/cgi-bin/ia20/i2_view?117028682313234604541770361907
Monday, August 21, 2006
SCHEDULE FOR TEXAS INTERNATIONAL BLUESFEST
Come see us this Saturday at the Texas International Bluesfest at the Sons of Hermann Hall. Make sure to say Hi to our guitarist Jim Hunton - Saturday is his birthday!
We are thrilled to be on the bill between our friends Cookie McGee and The Silvertones! (Congrats to Silvertone Leo DelaVega on his recent marriage!) Thanks to James Buck for including us in this years fest.
Here's the line up:
4 pm Ed
5 pm Elmo Blue
6 pm Kayla Reeves & Triple Threat
7 pm Damaged Goods
8 pm Cookie McGee
9 pm Blue Lisa and the T-Bonz
10 pm Silvertones
11 pm Cold Blue Steel
For more info, see my earlier post.
We are thrilled to be on the bill between our friends Cookie McGee and The Silvertones! (Congrats to Silvertone Leo DelaVega on his recent marriage!) Thanks to James Buck for including us in this years fest.
Here's the line up:
4 pm Ed
5 pm Elmo Blue
6 pm Kayla Reeves & Triple Threat
7 pm Damaged Goods
8 pm Cookie McGee
9 pm Blue Lisa and the T-Bonz
10 pm Silvertones
11 pm Cold Blue Steel
For more info, see my earlier post.
Wednesday, August 09, 2006
TEXAS INTERNATIONAL BLUESFEST COMING!!
LADIES SING THE BLUES
Dallas -- Three female acts are among the headliners at the ninth annual Texas International Blues Festival. Blue Lisa and the T-Bonz, Cookie McGee, and Kayla Reeves & Triple Threat will be joining Dallas-based award-winning blues band the Silvertones on the stage at the Sons of Hermann Hall in Deep Ellum on Saturday, August 26.
Also appearing will be two-time winner best blues band Dallas Oserver Music Awards Cold Blue Steel, Elmo Blue, from Austin Trent Turner and the Moontowers, Damaged Goods, and new band Ed, plus special surprise guests.
Admisson is $10 in advance or $15 at the door. Tickets are general admisson and can be purchased via the internet at acteva.com/go/texasblues. Bring two cans of food for the North Texas Food Bank and receive $5 off the ticket price. The Sons of Hermann Hall is located at 3414 Elm at Exposition in Dallas. Showtime is 4 pm.
For more information contact J&B Productions at 214-823-3966 or email jeb@brightok.net. Sons of Hermann Hall can be contacted at 214-747-4422.
Dallas -- Three female acts are among the headliners at the ninth annual Texas International Blues Festival. Blue Lisa and the T-Bonz, Cookie McGee, and Kayla Reeves & Triple Threat will be joining Dallas-based award-winning blues band the Silvertones on the stage at the Sons of Hermann Hall in Deep Ellum on Saturday, August 26.
Also appearing will be two-time winner best blues band Dallas Oserver Music Awards Cold Blue Steel, Elmo Blue, from Austin Trent Turner and the Moontowers, Damaged Goods, and new band Ed, plus special surprise guests.
Admisson is $10 in advance or $15 at the door. Tickets are general admisson and can be purchased via the internet at acteva.com/go/texasblues. Bring two cans of food for the North Texas Food Bank and receive $5 off the ticket price. The Sons of Hermann Hall is located at 3414 Elm at Exposition in Dallas. Showtime is 4 pm.
For more information contact J&B Productions at 214-823-3966 or email jeb@brightok.net. Sons of Hermann Hall can be contacted at 214-747-4422.
Monday, August 07, 2006
HAPPY BIRTHDAY DENNY FREEMAN!
Today is the birthday of one of my all time favorite guitarist, Mr. Denny Freeman.
To call him a blues guitarist would only be lightly scratching the surface. He is an EXCELLENT blues guitarist: tasteful yet powerful. But Denny can play just about any style and make it work - blues, rock, jazz. Right now, he's on tour as guitarist for Bob Dylan. (Nice work if you can get it!) On top of that, he's also an accomplished pianist.
Some of my favorite stuff Denny's done include his solo CD's (my favorite - A TONE FOR MY SINS on Dallas Blues Society Records), his work on Angela Strehli's SOUL SHAKE (there just doesn't exist a more Texas guitar tone than this - and his playing on "Stranger Blues" is awesome), his work on Lou Ann Barton's READ MY LIPS (My all time favorite blues CD by anyone, anywhere), and his work on the Jimmie Vaughan solo CD's.
Go look at his website at www.DennyFreeman.com Everybody has pictures on their website, but Denny's are a history of the Austin, Texas blues scene. Look carefully, you'll see some very young versions of quite familiar faces! And don't miss the last page of the photos - his collection of business cards. True blues treasure!
In Texas, we breed some of the finest guitarist in the world. Denny Freeman is right at the top among the the best the state has ever produced. Visit his website and find out why!
To call him a blues guitarist would only be lightly scratching the surface. He is an EXCELLENT blues guitarist: tasteful yet powerful. But Denny can play just about any style and make it work - blues, rock, jazz. Right now, he's on tour as guitarist for Bob Dylan. (Nice work if you can get it!) On top of that, he's also an accomplished pianist.
Some of my favorite stuff Denny's done include his solo CD's (my favorite - A TONE FOR MY SINS on Dallas Blues Society Records), his work on Angela Strehli's SOUL SHAKE (there just doesn't exist a more Texas guitar tone than this - and his playing on "Stranger Blues" is awesome), his work on Lou Ann Barton's READ MY LIPS (My all time favorite blues CD by anyone, anywhere), and his work on the Jimmie Vaughan solo CD's.
Go look at his website at www.DennyFreeman.com Everybody has pictures on their website, but Denny's are a history of the Austin, Texas blues scene. Look carefully, you'll see some very young versions of quite familiar faces! And don't miss the last page of the photos - his collection of business cards. True blues treasure!
In Texas, we breed some of the finest guitarist in the world. Denny Freeman is right at the top among the the best the state has ever produced. Visit his website and find out why!
HOW HOT IS TEXAS?
I've told this story to several people now, and they've suggested I post it here.
I have to admit, even after living in Texas all of my life, it was a first for me.
The Saturday I returned from Scotland, my band and I played Stroker's Icehouse on the outside stage. The actual temperature was around 101 when we started and the heat index was 106.
It was a long, hot 4 hours. When we were done, all I wanted to do was get a shower and go to bed. When I was getting undressed, I took off my tennis shoes and went to pull off my socks. Remember, I'm pretty wiped out from 4 hours in the heat, but I couldn't get the sock off my foot. I'm thinking I've got a hangnail, but no.
My toe nail polish had melted to my socks. On both feet.
THAT'S how hot it is in Texas!
I have to admit, even after living in Texas all of my life, it was a first for me.
The Saturday I returned from Scotland, my band and I played Stroker's Icehouse on the outside stage. The actual temperature was around 101 when we started and the heat index was 106.
It was a long, hot 4 hours. When we were done, all I wanted to do was get a shower and go to bed. When I was getting undressed, I took off my tennis shoes and went to pull off my socks. Remember, I'm pretty wiped out from 4 hours in the heat, but I couldn't get the sock off my foot. I'm thinking I've got a hangnail, but no.
My toe nail polish had melted to my socks. On both feet.
THAT'S how hot it is in Texas!
NORTH TEXAS BLUES SOCIETY IBC INFO
A heads up for musicians interested in entering: The North Texas Blues Society is looking for Band and Best Self-Produced CD submissions for International Blues Challenge, otherwise known as IBC.
IBC Best Self-produced CD submissions deadline is September 21, 2006
IBC Band audition reservation mail-in deadline is September 17, 2006. The juried audition event will be held in Denton on Sunday, September 24, 2006.
Complete information is available at www.northtexasblues.com.
IBC Best Self-produced CD submissions deadline is September 21, 2006
IBC Band audition reservation mail-in deadline is September 17, 2006. The juried audition event will be held in Denton on Sunday, September 24, 2006.
Complete information is available at www.northtexasblues.com.
Thursday, July 27, 2006
SERVICES FOR RAY T MYERS
Many thanks to Jackie Don Loe for the tribute he did this morning on my show for Ray T. Myers.
Here is the service information he gave on air:
The Wake for Ray T. Myers will be held Friday, July 28 at the Golden Gate Funeral Home in Oak Cliff at I35 and Ann Arbor from 7:15 pm until 8:15 pm.
The funeral will be Saturday, July 29 at the True Love Missionary Baptist Church located at 3711 Humphrey Dr., Dallas 75216 214-371-5932
Burial to follow at Lincoln Memorial Park.
Jackie Don will also be presenting another tribute this evening on Ginger's Texas Blues Radio show that is on air at KNON from 6 pm until 8 pm.
And later tonight, I believe between 10pm and 11 pm, he will be doing a call in interview with Ernie Johnson on his show, which I believe is on KKDA. (If I'm wrong about the station, someone let me know and I'll correct this.)
Here is the service information he gave on air:
The Wake for Ray T. Myers will be held Friday, July 28 at the Golden Gate Funeral Home in Oak Cliff at I35 and Ann Arbor from 7:15 pm until 8:15 pm.
The funeral will be Saturday, July 29 at the True Love Missionary Baptist Church located at 3711 Humphrey Dr., Dallas 75216 214-371-5932
Burial to follow at Lincoln Memorial Park.
Jackie Don will also be presenting another tribute this evening on Ginger's Texas Blues Radio show that is on air at KNON from 6 pm until 8 pm.
And later tonight, I believe between 10pm and 11 pm, he will be doing a call in interview with Ernie Johnson on his show, which I believe is on KKDA. (If I'm wrong about the station, someone let me know and I'll correct this.)
Tuesday, July 18, 2006
SERVICES FOR SWEET SAM MYERS
Services for Sam Myers will held at the Sandra Clarke Funeral Home in Oak Cliff, Texas (6029 South R.L. Thornton Freeway, phone 214-371-2600)
There will be a visitation on Thursday evening, July 20th, from 6 pm until 9 pm.
Funeral services will be on Friday, July 21st at 11 am.
Sam's body will then be sent to Jackson, Mississippi for a second service and then Sam will be laid to rest in Mississippi where his Mom and Dad are buried. Both passed away in the last year.
Sam's passing is mentioned on the front page of the Dallas Morning News today, directing you to Section G - The Guide Live page, where there is a touching tribute article on the front page. Thor Christensen did a nice job on the story, but my favorite part was the caption on page 5G where the story continues "Tender, gentle guy was known for his gruff exterior."
If you knew Sam, you know how true this is. If you didn't, well the stories of what happened to those who annoyed him are legendary.
People always ask, but personally, I never wondered where Sam got that "Sweet" tag. During and for quite a while after my divorce Sammy and Joe Jonas took me under their wing, allowing me to cry and fret under their watchful eyes, never making light of my self-absorbed plight, all the while knowing I'd be OK. (I loved the all knowing comment of my good friend Andrea Dawson during this time, "When you're going through something like this you think "But my pain is DIFFERENT! My pain is WORSE!") When Sam left on tour shortly after he made a point of calling Joe to check on me "Have you seen Blue Lisa? Is she Ok?" I found it so touching that he and Joe both would be so worried about me. And that Sam would take the time to check on me.
Sam encouraged me to start a new band, and boy did THAT spark some spirited discussions about what guitar player to use! (Sam had some, shall we say, rather STRONG opinions on guitar players!) Before his illness made it impractical for him to be out, he even showed up for a few of the first gigs. Upon seeing him arrive, I'd always go to him and threaten him not to terrorize my guitarist. To which he would reply only with that wicked laugh of his! It's amazing I got anyone to play with me at all!
He always liked my niece, Amanda. One truth about Sam's blindness was that he could see well enough to see a pretty girl! Sam always liked to keep company with the prettiest girl in the room, and when Amanda was there, she was it. In those days, I was living in the same apartment complex as Sam, and when Amanda came to visit and we came out to swim, Sam always poked his head out his front door and invited Amanda in for ice cream. Sam always had ice cream! I have some great pictures I took on one of the "Bowling With Sammy" nights where 69 year old Sam is showing 16 year old Amanda how to bowl, and yes, I got one of him "blessing" her bowling ball! After Sam was well into his treatment for cancer, a tumor was discovered in Amanda's side. Thank God it ended up being benign, but I'll never forget the night I told Sam about it over at the Hole in the Wall - he started crying. In the middle of all of his own pain and suffering, he was worried about Amanda. How can you not love a man like that?
My favorite memories of Sammy will always be the ones that happened outside the view of the public eye - afternoons and evenings sitting around his apartment (usually eating) or driving to a show, listening to him tell his stories. I've got literally hundreds of memories of Sam that have flooded me over the last 24 hours in my grief - some have made me cry, some have made me laugh. Huh. Just like Sam. Some stories I have and will continue to tell. But some I will keep to myself, just for me and Sam. As much as he adored the limelight, he also had a very private side. I think I honor him best by keeping some of those private moments private.
I will always be grateful for the honor of his picking my radio show for the world debut of his solo CD "Coming From The Old School". We can all keep part of Sam alive and with us forever by playing his music, which I'll be doing this Thursday on my show, like I have almost every Thursday for going on 7 years. (When he was in town, he was always listening. And quick to call me if I didn't play his music, or made a mistake when talking about someone elses.)
But the next time I feel the urge to smack a guitar player, there will be no one for me to call to encourage me to do just that. Pity. For me, it will never be the same. Our friendship was never really about the music. It was about love and trust. The music was just a bonus.
Sam loved to laugh, and was sharp as a tack right to the very end. So I think the best way to end my ramblings here is to tell one of my favorite Sammy stories.
Several years ago Hash Brown had a weekly jam in the basement of a short lived club in downtown Dallas. I had been called up and was exasperatingly trying to turn the main PA speakers in a little so there would be at least a chance I could hear myself when I started to sing.
Hash NEVER has monitors. It drives me nuts!
So when I got to the mic, I started in. "You know, last night I had a dream I died and went to heaven and Hash Brown had monitors at his jam." From way in the back of the room, far out of my sight, came the unmistakable voice of Sam Myers. "Honey", he said "If Hash was there, you weren't in heaven." The whole room, including Hash, burst into laughter.
It would be wrong to say I'm GOING to miss you Sammy. I miss you already. I feel an emptiness in my heart and soul you only feel when you lose someone you love and who loves you back. Thanks for everything Sam.
There will be a visitation on Thursday evening, July 20th, from 6 pm until 9 pm.
Funeral services will be on Friday, July 21st at 11 am.
Sam's body will then be sent to Jackson, Mississippi for a second service and then Sam will be laid to rest in Mississippi where his Mom and Dad are buried. Both passed away in the last year.
Sam's passing is mentioned on the front page of the Dallas Morning News today, directing you to Section G - The Guide Live page, where there is a touching tribute article on the front page. Thor Christensen did a nice job on the story, but my favorite part was the caption on page 5G where the story continues "Tender, gentle guy was known for his gruff exterior."
If you knew Sam, you know how true this is. If you didn't, well the stories of what happened to those who annoyed him are legendary.
People always ask, but personally, I never wondered where Sam got that "Sweet" tag. During and for quite a while after my divorce Sammy and Joe Jonas took me under their wing, allowing me to cry and fret under their watchful eyes, never making light of my self-absorbed plight, all the while knowing I'd be OK. (I loved the all knowing comment of my good friend Andrea Dawson during this time, "When you're going through something like this you think "But my pain is DIFFERENT! My pain is WORSE!") When Sam left on tour shortly after he made a point of calling Joe to check on me "Have you seen Blue Lisa? Is she Ok?" I found it so touching that he and Joe both would be so worried about me. And that Sam would take the time to check on me.
Sam encouraged me to start a new band, and boy did THAT spark some spirited discussions about what guitar player to use! (Sam had some, shall we say, rather STRONG opinions on guitar players!) Before his illness made it impractical for him to be out, he even showed up for a few of the first gigs. Upon seeing him arrive, I'd always go to him and threaten him not to terrorize my guitarist. To which he would reply only with that wicked laugh of his! It's amazing I got anyone to play with me at all!
He always liked my niece, Amanda. One truth about Sam's blindness was that he could see well enough to see a pretty girl! Sam always liked to keep company with the prettiest girl in the room, and when Amanda was there, she was it. In those days, I was living in the same apartment complex as Sam, and when Amanda came to visit and we came out to swim, Sam always poked his head out his front door and invited Amanda in for ice cream. Sam always had ice cream! I have some great pictures I took on one of the "Bowling With Sammy" nights where 69 year old Sam is showing 16 year old Amanda how to bowl, and yes, I got one of him "blessing" her bowling ball! After Sam was well into his treatment for cancer, a tumor was discovered in Amanda's side. Thank God it ended up being benign, but I'll never forget the night I told Sam about it over at the Hole in the Wall - he started crying. In the middle of all of his own pain and suffering, he was worried about Amanda. How can you not love a man like that?
My favorite memories of Sammy will always be the ones that happened outside the view of the public eye - afternoons and evenings sitting around his apartment (usually eating) or driving to a show, listening to him tell his stories. I've got literally hundreds of memories of Sam that have flooded me over the last 24 hours in my grief - some have made me cry, some have made me laugh. Huh. Just like Sam. Some stories I have and will continue to tell. But some I will keep to myself, just for me and Sam. As much as he adored the limelight, he also had a very private side. I think I honor him best by keeping some of those private moments private.
I will always be grateful for the honor of his picking my radio show for the world debut of his solo CD "Coming From The Old School". We can all keep part of Sam alive and with us forever by playing his music, which I'll be doing this Thursday on my show, like I have almost every Thursday for going on 7 years. (When he was in town, he was always listening. And quick to call me if I didn't play his music, or made a mistake when talking about someone elses.)
But the next time I feel the urge to smack a guitar player, there will be no one for me to call to encourage me to do just that. Pity. For me, it will never be the same. Our friendship was never really about the music. It was about love and trust. The music was just a bonus.
Sam loved to laugh, and was sharp as a tack right to the very end. So I think the best way to end my ramblings here is to tell one of my favorite Sammy stories.
Several years ago Hash Brown had a weekly jam in the basement of a short lived club in downtown Dallas. I had been called up and was exasperatingly trying to turn the main PA speakers in a little so there would be at least a chance I could hear myself when I started to sing.
Hash NEVER has monitors. It drives me nuts!
So when I got to the mic, I started in. "You know, last night I had a dream I died and went to heaven and Hash Brown had monitors at his jam." From way in the back of the room, far out of my sight, came the unmistakable voice of Sam Myers. "Honey", he said "If Hash was there, you weren't in heaven." The whole room, including Hash, burst into laughter.
It would be wrong to say I'm GOING to miss you Sammy. I miss you already. I feel an emptiness in my heart and soul you only feel when you lose someone you love and who loves you back. Thanks for everything Sam.
Monday, July 17, 2006
SAM MYERS PASSES
I have just received word that Sam Myers has passed away.
Shock and grief prevent me from saying much else. This is the moment I have feared for many months now as Sam fought and won his battle with cancer.
When I have details of a viewing or funeral services, I will pass them on to you.
Sam lived for his music. If there is comfort to be found today my friends, it is in the Blues that Sam loved so very much.
Shock and grief prevent me from saying much else. This is the moment I have feared for many months now as Sam fought and won his battle with cancer.
When I have details of a viewing or funeral services, I will pass them on to you.
Sam lived for his music. If there is comfort to be found today my friends, it is in the Blues that Sam loved so very much.
Thursday, July 13, 2006
I'M BACK!!!
More about that when I've had a little time to recover! I've only had about 5 hours sleep in the last 48 hours, and have to get ready in about an hour for the radio show!
Thursday, July 06, 2006
LISTENING TO KNON FROM SCOTLAND
It's 3:45 in the afternoon on a sunny, breezy, warm day here in Aberdeen, Scotland, and I'm listening to Cheryl Arena fill in for me real time from the link at the KNON.org web site!
This trip has really crystallized several things for me personally. First, how small a place the world really is. Yeah, there are differences here. But when it comes to the blues, it's the same here as back in the States - people love good Blues music!
I'm also just that much more fired up about what a great scene we have in the DFW area. I've been working hard to get the word out about KNON, and know we have gained lots of new listeners from my trip. That's good for my tiny ego (!), KNON and most importantly, all of the fabulous Blueswomen and Bluesmen I play weekly on Big Texas Blues.
Now that I have experinced first hand the amazingly welcoming reaction here to my personal Texas Style blues, my mind is just zooming about all the fabulous artists at home that should be making this trip themselves! If the blues lovers here could just see and hear for themselves the soulful blues of Andrea Dawson, Joe Jonas and Jackie Don Loe! If they could witness the power of Cheryl Arena, Kerri LePai and Miss Marcy! I know some of the local artists are already hooked into the European scene, but so many aren't that should be!
So you can count on my hitting the ground running when I get back to Dallas. As Jackie Don says "It's time to get our kicks in 2006!" And that's just the start!
And right here I really need to give a huge, HUGE "Thank You" to Son Henry for opening my eyes and making my dreams come true. For over a dozen years now you have encouraged, enlightened and empowered me. My debt to you is imeasurable. Thank you, my friend. Thank you.
This trip has really crystallized several things for me personally. First, how small a place the world really is. Yeah, there are differences here. But when it comes to the blues, it's the same here as back in the States - people love good Blues music!
I'm also just that much more fired up about what a great scene we have in the DFW area. I've been working hard to get the word out about KNON, and know we have gained lots of new listeners from my trip. That's good for my tiny ego (!), KNON and most importantly, all of the fabulous Blueswomen and Bluesmen I play weekly on Big Texas Blues.
Now that I have experinced first hand the amazingly welcoming reaction here to my personal Texas Style blues, my mind is just zooming about all the fabulous artists at home that should be making this trip themselves! If the blues lovers here could just see and hear for themselves the soulful blues of Andrea Dawson, Joe Jonas and Jackie Don Loe! If they could witness the power of Cheryl Arena, Kerri LePai and Miss Marcy! I know some of the local artists are already hooked into the European scene, but so many aren't that should be!
So you can count on my hitting the ground running when I get back to Dallas. As Jackie Don says "It's time to get our kicks in 2006!" And that's just the start!
And right here I really need to give a huge, HUGE "Thank You" to Son Henry for opening my eyes and making my dreams come true. For over a dozen years now you have encouraged, enlightened and empowered me. My debt to you is imeasurable. Thank you, my friend. Thank you.
Wednesday, July 05, 2006
ADVENTURES IN SCOTLAND PART II
Yesterday was 4th of July. As you can imagine, they don't celebrate that here in the British Isles. Last year, I made quite a joke out of that to Son Henry, who was spending his first 4th of July in Scotland. And this year, I'm here with him. Anyone think that is an accident?
So yesterday Son took the day off and he, his drummer from Alaska, John Clark, Johns wife Marietta and I went to see some real Scottish castles!
The first one was a castle in ruins, Dunottar Castle. It was a lovely, huge place, accessable by a VERY long winding set of steps up and down from the main road. (Those of you who told me to bring sturdy shoes and prepare to do alot of walking were right on the money - I think I've walked more here in the last 7 days than I have in the last 6 months in Dallas!) The castle ruins are high on a cliff over looking the North Sea. Mel Gibson filmed "Hamlet" on the battlements here. You can see pictures and check out the castles history at www.VisitScotland.com
After that inspiring and beautiful but exhausting walk, we drove into the charming small fishing village up the road and had fish and chips on the patio facing the harbor of a great little pub. Now HERE'S a life I could get used to living!
After eating we proceeded by car to Drum Castle. The main tower of Drum Castle is believed to be among the oldest of structural remains in Scotland. The castle was built in sections, and today is part residence and part furnished and refurbished museum like tour (the last Laird lived in the family part of the castle until his death in 1975. The oldest part of the castle, the main tower, is mostly untouched, but visitable. Drum Castle is also surrounded by beautiful gardens. You can see more about it at www.drum-castle.org/uk
Everyone here is out doing thier own thing today, so I'm going to take a walk into downtown Aberdeen in search of a new pair of walking shoes - the brand new pair I bought for the trip have already started coming apart! Son's wife Carolina drew me a map last night and pointed out some sites of interest I will be in the vacinity of. Hopefully I can do a little gift shopping while I'm out.
And should I get lost, I'm sure I'll be able to find myself a cute and helpful Scotsman to help me find my way!
So yesterday Son took the day off and he, his drummer from Alaska, John Clark, Johns wife Marietta and I went to see some real Scottish castles!
The first one was a castle in ruins, Dunottar Castle. It was a lovely, huge place, accessable by a VERY long winding set of steps up and down from the main road. (Those of you who told me to bring sturdy shoes and prepare to do alot of walking were right on the money - I think I've walked more here in the last 7 days than I have in the last 6 months in Dallas!) The castle ruins are high on a cliff over looking the North Sea. Mel Gibson filmed "Hamlet" on the battlements here. You can see pictures and check out the castles history at www.VisitScotland.com
After that inspiring and beautiful but exhausting walk, we drove into the charming small fishing village up the road and had fish and chips on the patio facing the harbor of a great little pub. Now HERE'S a life I could get used to living!
After eating we proceeded by car to Drum Castle. The main tower of Drum Castle is believed to be among the oldest of structural remains in Scotland. The castle was built in sections, and today is part residence and part furnished and refurbished museum like tour (the last Laird lived in the family part of the castle until his death in 1975. The oldest part of the castle, the main tower, is mostly untouched, but visitable. Drum Castle is also surrounded by beautiful gardens. You can see more about it at www.drum-castle.org/uk
Everyone here is out doing thier own thing today, so I'm going to take a walk into downtown Aberdeen in search of a new pair of walking shoes - the brand new pair I bought for the trip have already started coming apart! Son's wife Carolina drew me a map last night and pointed out some sites of interest I will be in the vacinity of. Hopefully I can do a little gift shopping while I'm out.
And should I get lost, I'm sure I'll be able to find myself a cute and helpful Scotsman to help me find my way!
Monday, July 03, 2006
BLUE LISA'S SCOTTISH ADVENTURE!!
Greetings from Aberdeen, Scotland. I had some pretty big expectations upon my arrival, since this is the trip I've always wanted to take, and I have to say, I have not been disappointed at all in anything! The views of the countryside are spectacular, the people are very warm and friendly (especially the men who are just adorable!), and my shows have been VERY well received. The Dundee Blues Bonanza is a huge event, and literally on every corner there's a poster for the event with my name on it! How cool is that - they're everywhere!! And I'm not even going to pretend I didn't get a constant buzz from it all - I am on cloud nine! Wooo-hooo!!!
As a bonus, I saw lots of men in kilts! Once passing a church where the ladies were entering for a wedding with thier very British hats and the men were decked out in thier finest dress tarten kilts. And again, in the main town square where a kilted Scottish bagpipe and drumm band were doing an outdoor performance.
I didn't get to meet as many of the local musicians at the festival as I would have liked, due to time restraints. Thursday night before heading for Dundee, I did see a really amazing one man band kind of act, a guitarist based here in Aberdeen named Gerry Jablonsky. He's a very skilled and innovative guitarist, but, ladies, well, you know how I like Eye Candy! And this guy is just gorgeous! (Hey, I still respect him as a musician!)
On Friday night we played the Bonanza opening event, "International Night" at The Marquee Club. My set with Son Henry ended the show, and we played to a packed house of very appreciative blues fans. What a blast! I just don't get enough chances to play with Son these days, so every time it's a treat for me. His band here are all great musicians and really nice guys as well.
The Scottish band "Lazy Poker" did a great job playing for me on Sunday when Son Henry got sick and had to go back to Aberdeen early. So yeah, I traveled 4,448 miles and played with a band I'd never even sat eyes on before! I was worried that Son was feeling so bad, because he NEVER misses a gig. (Looks like it was a 24 hour bug of some kind - he's alright now,) But the show ended up still being cool and lots of fun. Really now, how upset do you think I could be - I'm in Scotland for God's sake with all these lovely, lovely Scottish men! This is hands down the happiest I've been in a very long time! Son Henry's guitarist Dave also stayed and played with me since he had learned the songs. Other than a few tiny bumps, the show went off without a hitch!
Dundee itself is a lovely city with really interesting old buildings and lots of lovely little shops lining the streets. Coming in from Aberdeen, I took a double decker bus (and sat at upstairs at the front) ang going back I rode the ScotRail train. On both trips, my view of the country side was amazing!
So there's your first report. I've got a little over a week to go, so I'm sure there will be more stories to come! (And no, I haven't been arrested. Yet.)
As a bonus, I saw lots of men in kilts! Once passing a church where the ladies were entering for a wedding with thier very British hats and the men were decked out in thier finest dress tarten kilts. And again, in the main town square where a kilted Scottish bagpipe and drumm band were doing an outdoor performance.
I didn't get to meet as many of the local musicians at the festival as I would have liked, due to time restraints. Thursday night before heading for Dundee, I did see a really amazing one man band kind of act, a guitarist based here in Aberdeen named Gerry Jablonsky. He's a very skilled and innovative guitarist, but, ladies, well, you know how I like Eye Candy! And this guy is just gorgeous! (Hey, I still respect him as a musician!)
On Friday night we played the Bonanza opening event, "International Night" at The Marquee Club. My set with Son Henry ended the show, and we played to a packed house of very appreciative blues fans. What a blast! I just don't get enough chances to play with Son these days, so every time it's a treat for me. His band here are all great musicians and really nice guys as well.
The Scottish band "Lazy Poker" did a great job playing for me on Sunday when Son Henry got sick and had to go back to Aberdeen early. So yeah, I traveled 4,448 miles and played with a band I'd never even sat eyes on before! I was worried that Son was feeling so bad, because he NEVER misses a gig. (Looks like it was a 24 hour bug of some kind - he's alright now,) But the show ended up still being cool and lots of fun. Really now, how upset do you think I could be - I'm in Scotland for God's sake with all these lovely, lovely Scottish men! This is hands down the happiest I've been in a very long time! Son Henry's guitarist Dave also stayed and played with me since he had learned the songs. Other than a few tiny bumps, the show went off without a hitch!
Dundee itself is a lovely city with really interesting old buildings and lots of lovely little shops lining the streets. Coming in from Aberdeen, I took a double decker bus (and sat at upstairs at the front) ang going back I rode the ScotRail train. On both trips, my view of the country side was amazing!
So there's your first report. I've got a little over a week to go, so I'm sure there will be more stories to come! (And no, I haven't been arrested. Yet.)
Wednesday, May 24, 2006
Very Well Put
The following is part of the weekly gig e-mail that my friend Cheryl Arena put out this week. I really agree with what she had to say.
********
All I can say is I feel lucky to be alive and well..this past week has been a shocker losing two great people who were dedicated to promoting Blues music and Blues musicians..that being Teo Leosmeyer (former keyboard player with Johnny Copeland and booker for the original House of Blues in Cambridge Mass.) who passed away last week at the age of 58 and then today hearing about Clifford Antone who was also in his 50's and I'm sure you all know who he was and how much he contributed to trying to keep the Blues alive...it's so sad and shocking.
I feel on the one hand kind of tacky telling ya'll my gigs for this week but then on the other hand I feel like that's what I do and I do it because I truly love this music and I want to share it with as many people as I can and carry it on...for as long as I'm living and breathing on this earth. Life is so precious and short and I feel blessed to have the gift of music to share that's why I play as much as possible..not just my gigs but the jams around town..there is so much talent down here and I hope that ya'll get out and hear some Blues this weekend..not just my gigs but any of the many gifted musicians in DFW.
KNON's Don O. has a website with all kinds of listings..Joanna has listings in Southwest Blues Magazine ...KNON's Blue Lisa tells ya every Thursday morning around 11am what's happening around town... please get out and support the Blues.
That I think is the best way to honor these two fine gentlemen.
Listen to KNON!!! Support the Blues!
There USE to be Blues on the radio all the time in Boston..but not anymore..there wasn't enough support for it and it dwindled from every day and night for many hours,on several college stations, to once or twice a week on a few stations for a few short 1-2 hour shows. There USE to be alot of Blues clubs up in New England but not anymore...that's what happens when people don't go out and support live music...please don't let that happen here...I love it here and I wanna stay here.
Peace & Love,
Cheryl
********
All I can say is I feel lucky to be alive and well..this past week has been a shocker losing two great people who were dedicated to promoting Blues music and Blues musicians..that being Teo Leosmeyer (former keyboard player with Johnny Copeland and booker for the original House of Blues in Cambridge Mass.) who passed away last week at the age of 58 and then today hearing about Clifford Antone who was also in his 50's and I'm sure you all know who he was and how much he contributed to trying to keep the Blues alive...it's so sad and shocking.
I feel on the one hand kind of tacky telling ya'll my gigs for this week but then on the other hand I feel like that's what I do and I do it because I truly love this music and I want to share it with as many people as I can and carry it on...for as long as I'm living and breathing on this earth. Life is so precious and short and I feel blessed to have the gift of music to share that's why I play as much as possible..not just my gigs but the jams around town..there is so much talent down here and I hope that ya'll get out and hear some Blues this weekend..not just my gigs but any of the many gifted musicians in DFW.
KNON's Don O. has a website with all kinds of listings..Joanna has listings in Southwest Blues Magazine ...KNON's Blue Lisa tells ya every Thursday morning around 11am what's happening around town... please get out and support the Blues.
That I think is the best way to honor these two fine gentlemen.
Listen to KNON!!! Support the Blues!
There USE to be Blues on the radio all the time in Boston..but not anymore..there wasn't enough support for it and it dwindled from every day and night for many hours,on several college stations, to once or twice a week on a few stations for a few short 1-2 hour shows. There USE to be alot of Blues clubs up in New England but not anymore...that's what happens when people don't go out and support live music...please don't let that happen here...I love it here and I wanna stay here.
Peace & Love,
Cheryl
Clifford Antone Passes
I am still reeling from the news yesterday of the death of Clifford Antone. I was in my car on the way to my gig when Joanna Iz from Southwest Blues called to tell me. I instantly felt like a lead weight had been dropped to the bottom of my stomach, where it has sat ever since. I've probably eaten 20 Tums today, but I still just feel incredibly nauseous. I can't help but feel that it is the end of a golden era in Texas Blues.
It's funny how your mind works. I had the toughest time gripping the reality of it as I drove, but I suddenly realized I was wearing the exact outfit I had on the last time I saw him. (Those of you who know my love of clothes shopping and vast wardrobe will understand how highly unlikely an occurrence that was.)
It was last summer during Antone's 30th Anniversary week, when Andrea Dawson and I drove down for the "Chick" show and then came right back the same night so I could do the radio show the next morning. We went to see all the fabulous Antone's Women appearing that night - Lou Ann Barton, Marcia Ball, Angela Strehli, Sister Sarah Brown, and Sue Foley. (Okay, Okay. I also went to look at Derek O'Brien - I love me some looking at- and listening to, of course! - Derek O'Brien!!) We were especially eager to see our friend Cheryl Arena on stage performing with Candye Kane, which eventually led to Candye coming to Dallas last year to headline my radio anniversary show.
The cool thing was after Candye's set, Clifford called Cheryl back on stage and made a big deal about her. I think he was just blown away (pun intended) by her harmonica talent. Luckily, I got a picture of them together. The man was just like that all the time - always listening, always recognizing and encouraging talent.
It never dawned on me that night that the next time I went to Antone's, Clifford would be gone. During my formative years in the blues (the early 90's) I was driving to Austin 2 or 3 times a month to go to Antone's. I never bothered to check ahead - Clifford always had someone or something amazing going on. And he was always there, standing to the side of the stage, helping artists on and off, soaking it all in, and occasionally jumping on stage and strapping on a bass for an impromptu jam. I'll never forget the night during on of his anniversary week celebrations -the year Derek was away on his , shall we say, government paid vacation. I was really blue that O'Brien wasn't there to be a part of it, but what I didn't know is that Clifford had helped arrange for his early release, driven a long round trip to get him, and much to my happy amazement, brought him straight to the Antone's stage still in his prison issue finest. I consider my time spent at Antone's my Blues education, and I will be eternally grateful to Cliff for making it all happen so this 30 something white woman rock and roller could discover the American treasure we call the Blues.
I love Dallas, and think we have one of the finest blues scenes in the world today, but those Antone's Austin blues are the very backbone of what I do and who I am. I can't imagine my life without them.
Thank you Clifford Antone, for your unwavering love and devotion to the blues. I know when you walked in to that big blues jam in the sky, all your many, many friends that had gone on before you held you your bass and welcomed you to the band.
It's funny how your mind works. I had the toughest time gripping the reality of it as I drove, but I suddenly realized I was wearing the exact outfit I had on the last time I saw him. (Those of you who know my love of clothes shopping and vast wardrobe will understand how highly unlikely an occurrence that was.)
It was last summer during Antone's 30th Anniversary week, when Andrea Dawson and I drove down for the "Chick" show and then came right back the same night so I could do the radio show the next morning. We went to see all the fabulous Antone's Women appearing that night - Lou Ann Barton, Marcia Ball, Angela Strehli, Sister Sarah Brown, and Sue Foley. (Okay, Okay. I also went to look at Derek O'Brien - I love me some looking at- and listening to, of course! - Derek O'Brien!!) We were especially eager to see our friend Cheryl Arena on stage performing with Candye Kane, which eventually led to Candye coming to Dallas last year to headline my radio anniversary show.
The cool thing was after Candye's set, Clifford called Cheryl back on stage and made a big deal about her. I think he was just blown away (pun intended) by her harmonica talent. Luckily, I got a picture of them together. The man was just like that all the time - always listening, always recognizing and encouraging talent.
It never dawned on me that night that the next time I went to Antone's, Clifford would be gone. During my formative years in the blues (the early 90's) I was driving to Austin 2 or 3 times a month to go to Antone's. I never bothered to check ahead - Clifford always had someone or something amazing going on. And he was always there, standing to the side of the stage, helping artists on and off, soaking it all in, and occasionally jumping on stage and strapping on a bass for an impromptu jam. I'll never forget the night during on of his anniversary week celebrations -the year Derek was away on his , shall we say, government paid vacation. I was really blue that O'Brien wasn't there to be a part of it, but what I didn't know is that Clifford had helped arrange for his early release, driven a long round trip to get him, and much to my happy amazement, brought him straight to the Antone's stage still in his prison issue finest. I consider my time spent at Antone's my Blues education, and I will be eternally grateful to Cliff for making it all happen so this 30 something white woman rock and roller could discover the American treasure we call the Blues.
I love Dallas, and think we have one of the finest blues scenes in the world today, but those Antone's Austin blues are the very backbone of what I do and who I am. I can't imagine my life without them.
Thank you Clifford Antone, for your unwavering love and devotion to the blues. I know when you walked in to that big blues jam in the sky, all your many, many friends that had gone on before you held you your bass and welcomed you to the band.
BLUE LISA DOES SCOTLAND
Sounds kind of kinky, doesn't it? (I can only hope.)
Here's the official press release:
####
Blue Lisa heads for Scotland in June where she will be one of the headliners of the largest free blues festival in Europe, the Dundee Blues Bonanza. She'll be on the bill with Bob Hall (Savoy Brown, Peter Green and others), Otis Grand, Little Jimmy Reed, and will be backed by the incomparable Son Henry Band. Last years festival drew over 12,000 people, and this years festival will be even bigger. Blue Lisa will be doing 2 shows, one on the main stage and one at a 300 seat venue that's already a sell out. www.dundeebluesbonanza.com
While in Scotland, Blue Lisa will begin work on her debut release for Scottish label Front Porch Records. www.frontporchrecords.co.uk
####
I'm very excited for the chance to work again with my friend the legendary Son Henry. I never know what kind of musical mischief we'll get up to, but I always know it will be a good time. And as long as someone brings a fire extinguisher, we'll be all right!
This is the trip I've been wanting to take since I was 13 years old (and in love with Eric Faulkner of the Bay City Rollers!), and I'm finally going. I'm really beginning to believe that saying "Life starts at 40" is true!
Cheryl Arena has graciously agree to get up early the two Thursday's I'm gone and bring you BIG TEXAS BLUES, so I'm leaving you in great hands.
I'm sure I'll have many adventures to share with you. Keep watching this space!
Here's the official press release:
####
Blue Lisa heads for Scotland in June where she will be one of the headliners of the largest free blues festival in Europe, the Dundee Blues Bonanza. She'll be on the bill with Bob Hall (Savoy Brown, Peter Green and others), Otis Grand, Little Jimmy Reed, and will be backed by the incomparable Son Henry Band. Last years festival drew over 12,000 people, and this years festival will be even bigger. Blue Lisa will be doing 2 shows, one on the main stage and one at a 300 seat venue that's already a sell out. www.dundeebluesbonanza.com
While in Scotland, Blue Lisa will begin work on her debut release for Scottish label Front Porch Records. www.frontporchrecords.co.uk
####
I'm very excited for the chance to work again with my friend the legendary Son Henry. I never know what kind of musical mischief we'll get up to, but I always know it will be a good time. And as long as someone brings a fire extinguisher, we'll be all right!
This is the trip I've been wanting to take since I was 13 years old (and in love with Eric Faulkner of the Bay City Rollers!), and I'm finally going. I'm really beginning to believe that saying "Life starts at 40" is true!
Cheryl Arena has graciously agree to get up early the two Thursday's I'm gone and bring you BIG TEXAS BLUES, so I'm leaving you in great hands.
I'm sure I'll have many adventures to share with you. Keep watching this space!
Friday, May 12, 2006
Services for Alan Wiggins
A memorial service for Alan Wiggins will be held at 4 pm, Friday, May 12, 2006.
Services will be at Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Furneral Chapel in Plano/McKinney.
Highway 75 and Exit 38 - Ridgeview Dr. P.O. Box 1007 McKinney, Texas 75070-1007
Phone: 972-562-2601
Graveside services will be at Red Hill Cemetary in Murchison, Tx on Saturday at 2 pm.
Thanks to Bob Fisk for putting it into words for us all:
'This all just too sad for words. When you go out and play tonight, tomorrow, this weekend. Think about our friend Alan who loved the blues. Play loud cause that's the way Alan liked his blues. To my friend Wiggins who's up there getting to jam with the greats who have passed before him. God Bless."
Services will be at Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Furneral Chapel in Plano/McKinney.
Highway 75 and Exit 38 - Ridgeview Dr. P.O. Box 1007 McKinney, Texas 75070-1007
Phone: 972-562-2601
Graveside services will be at Red Hill Cemetary in Murchison, Tx on Saturday at 2 pm.
Thanks to Bob Fisk for putting it into words for us all:
'This all just too sad for words. When you go out and play tonight, tomorrow, this weekend. Think about our friend Alan who loved the blues. Play loud cause that's the way Alan liked his blues. To my friend Wiggins who's up there getting to jam with the greats who have passed before him. God Bless."
Wednesday, May 10, 2006
Sam Myers
Sam Myers is still in Minnesota recovering from his most recent surgery. Now I know a bigtown playboy like Sweet Sam is going nuts in a place like Minnesota! A web site has been set up to track Sam's progress. It also has a place where you can send Sammy an e-mail message. All the messages are printed off and read to Sam daily. Send him any kind of message you want, but don't bother sending him messages of a sexual nature - Andrea Dawson already has that covered! You can check on Sam's progress and e-mail him at: www.caringbridge.org/visit/sweetsam
Wednesday, March 29, 2006
I'm On Front Porch Records UK!
Check out the website for Front Porch Records (see the link to the right). There will be a couple of releases on the label during the first half of this year that I guest on, and in late June, I go to Scotland to work on the very first Blue Lisa CD!
Friday, March 24, 2006
Woo-Hoo! I'm able to post again!
Thanks to my harmonica/guitar player Tim Dougherty selling me his Dell laptop (at a ridiculously low price - boy, do I owe you one!), I can get back in here. Thanks also to my friends Michael & Donovan for the drinks at the VERY cool Belmont Hotel bar and for then taking me back to their equally cool house and letting me keep them up way too late getting AOL to load on here.
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