Tuesday, December 30, 2008

New Year's Eve jazz & blues things in Florida...

This is not a complete list yet, but we are getting closer....

City Limits: 19 NE 3rd Ave. citylimitsdelray.com. 279-8222. Sets 8pm or 9pm Thurs-Sun; Cover varies; Dec 31: New Mastersounds, Bonerama.

Lake Worth Playhouse: 713 Lake Ave. lakeworthplayhouse.org 586-6410 Dec 31: 8pm $35/adm Latin Jazz Project.

Eissey Campus Theatre: 11051 Campus Dr. pbcc.edu/x13029.xml Concerts: 8pm; Dec 31: $40/adm tel. 688-1330 Indian River Pops.

Sunset Bar & Grill: 2500 Broadway. sunsetbarandgrill.biz. 832-2722 1st seating 6-9pm, 2nd seating 9pm-12am, $60 Dec 31: 8pm-12:30am Patti Wicks w/ Mark Braun.

Sushi Blues Café & Blue Monk Lounge: 2009 Harrison St. 929-9560. sushiblues.com. 9:30pm $10 min. Dec 31: The Delusions.

The Regent: 10295 Collins Ave. regenthotels.com 455-5460. 1 Bleu Restaurant; Dec 31: Debbie Orta Quintet w/ Mike Levine, Greg Diaz, Mike Harvey, & Nicky Orta.

Coconut Grove Sailing Club: 2990 S Bayshore Dr. cgsc.org 444-4571 Dec 31: New Orleans Style New Year's Eve Dinner & Party w/ Piano Bob's 88's & Bonefish Johnny.

Tobacco Road: 626 S Miami Ave. Miami. tobacco-road.com. 374-1198. Dec 31: BeBob Grabowski's Jazz Jam.

Beach Shack: 1 Minutemen Causeway, Cocoa Beach FL 32931 beachshackbar.com. 321-783-2250. Ev. Fri-Sat: 8pm Blues; Dec 31: Bone Dogs.

Bradfordville Blues Club: 7152 Moses Ln. Tallahassee. bradfordvilleblues.com. 850-906-0766. Dec 31: Johnnie Marshall Blues Band.

Green Parrot: 601 Whitehead St Key West. greenparrot.com. 305-294-6133. Dec 31: New Years Eve with The Carter Brothers.

Rosey Baby: 4587 N University Dr. 749-5627. roseybaby.com. Dec 31: JD Danner.

Tennis Center: Atlantic Ave. Delary Beach, downtowndelraybeach.com/pdfs/firstnightbrochure.pdf First Night Celebration 8:30pm-midnight Dec 31: Son of Man.

300 Block of Atlantic Ave: Delary Beach, http://www.downtowndelraybeach.com/site.php?PageID=5 First Night Celebration 7-11pm Dec 31: Jazz Stream.

Fritz & Franz Bierhaus: 60 Merrick Way. Bierhaus.cc. 774-1883. Dec 31: Albert Castiglia Band $28 All-U-Can-Eat 7-11pm.

Buckingham Blues Bar: 5641 Buckingham Rd. Fort Myers, buckinghambar.com, 239-693-7111. Dec 31: Blues Jam

Gilbert's Resort: 107900 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, gilbertsresort.com. 305-451-3986. Dec 31: Midnite Johnny w/ Feeda Band.

Elwood's Dixie Barbeque: 301 E Atlantic Ave. 272-7427. Dec 31: Flyers.

Freebird Live: Jacksonville, Dec 31: JJ Grey & Mofro

Heidi's Jazz Club: 7 N Orlando Ave. Cocoa Beach. heidisjazzclub.com. 321-783-4559. Dec 31: New Years Eve Party Featuring the Ron Teixeira Trio.

Bradfordville Blues Club: Tallahassee, Dec 31: Johnnie Marshall Blues Band

MUSIC VISIONARY PHIL RAMONE TO CONDUCT MASTER CLASS AT UM

CORAL GABLES, FLThe University of Miami Frost School of Music continues the Stamps Family Distinguished Visitors Series with a master class by Phil Ramone. The music legend will visit the campus on Thursday, February 19th at 7:30 p.m at the Victor E. Clarke Recital Hall located at 5501 San Amaro Drive.

This unique learning opportunity, which is an integral part of the School's educational mission, is free and open to the public on a first come first serve basis.Phil Ramone is the innovative producer of music by the likes of Bob Dylan, Billy Joel, B.B. King, and Luciano Pavarotti to name just a few. Ramone has won nine Grammy awards and an Emmy since 1965 for his work in composition, sound engineering and record producing.

His new book, Making Records: The Scenes Behind the Music, chronicles his lengthy career.Just this past year, musicians John Corigliano and Joshua Redman have also been part of the Stamps Family Distinguished Visitors Series. This series is made possible with the generous support of Roe and Penny Stamps.

The program, now in its sixth year, brings distinguished musicians and composers together with music students from the University of Miami in performance, lecture, and master class activities. For more information and directions to the master class, please visit www.music.miami.edu or call (305) 284-3941.

Media Contact:
Elizabeth Amore
305-284-6266
eamore@miami.edu

The Frost School of Music, one of two schools created in 1926 when the University of Miami was founded, is one of the largest and best music schools located in a private university in the U.S., and one of the most comprehensive in all of higher education. The naming gift from Dr. Phillip and Patricia Frost was one of the historic highlights in the life of the School. Building on its foundation as a Conservatory of Music, the Frost School has pioneered new curricula and was the first in the nation to offer professionally accredited bachelor's and master's degrees in Music Business and Music Engineering Technology.

The Frost School was also among the first to offer degrees in Studio Music and Jazz, Music Therapy, and Accompanying and Chamber Music. In addition, the Frost School was the first in a major university to develop a student-run label, 'Cane Records, and a publishing company, Category Five. The School's innovative programs, combined with its traditional areas of concentration, offer its students one of the widest choices of career programs of any music school in the nation. The Frost School continues to lead, having recently established a new songwriting degree; the "Bruce Hornsby Creative American Music Program." Also, the world-renowned Henry Mancini Institute has relocated from Los Angeles to the Frost School.

The University of Miami's mission is to educate and nurture students, to create knowledge, and to provide service to our community and beyond. Committed to excellence and proud of our diversity of our University family, we strive to develop future leaders of our nation and the world. www.miami.edu.

Miami-Dade Community College Spring 2009 Latin Jazz Courses

[+] Composition on the Fly. Organize a Jam
This workshop demonstrates ways to create an ensemble performance in an improvised setting. Together, we will create music by converting and refining ideas into melodies and backgrounds. Students are encouraged to bring their instruments and imagination.
Course fee: $49.00 Hours: 3
Ref No
Dates
Days
Time
Room
Campus
516043
2/21
S
9:00 am - Noon
6120
Kendall

[+] I Recorded a Record, Now What?
Do you want to be a recording artist? Have you recorded a single/album? What should you do to begin to realize your dreams? An industry expert will provide useful and practical information that can help you put you on a path to success to include:what should be in your promotional package; can you do it on you own; major label vs. independent labels; the role of the internet.
Course fee: $49.00 Hours: 3
516042
2/7
S
9:00 am - Noon
5105
Kendall

[+] Jazz Drums
The Drums in Latin Jazz-Through discussion and demonstration Grammy award winning Nomar Negroni of Negroni’s Trio will show different rhythms for drums in Latin Jazz. You will also learn about the different styles and how they have changed over the years for drum playing in Latin Jazz.
Course fee: $49.00 Hours: 3
516047
4/25
S
9:00 am - Noon
6120
Kendall

[+] Latin Jazz Experience (Grades 6-12)
Music students of all levels will have a blast at the Miami Dade Kendall Campus for this daylong event. Bring your instruments, and play along with some of the top Latin Jazz artists and band Director Steve Kirkland. Your parents will be thrilled seeing you play in the concert scheduled at the end of the day. Lunch will be provided.
Course fee: $49.00 Hours: 6
516159
4/18
S
9:30 am - 3:30 pm
K413
Kendall
4/18
S
2:00 pm - 6:00 pm
6120

Latin Percussion-Styles Y Patrones
Course fee: $49.00 Hours: 3
516046
1/28
W
6:30 pm - 9:30 pm
6120
Kendall

Percussion in Latin Jazz
Course fee: $49.00 Hours: 3
516048
2/4
W
6:30 pm - 9:30 pm
K413
Kendall

[+] Piano in Latin Jazz
The Piano in Latin Jazz- The piano in all kinds of Latin music began with “montunos” and improvisations. In this workshop Javier Concepcion, Latin music recording artist, will enlighten you to the “roots” and beginnings of the piano in Latin Jazz. Learn the history and get an earful of the different styles of piano that have evolved from the 1920’s and 30’s Big Band and jazz era musicians.
Course fee: $49.00 Hours: 3
516045
2/28
S
9:00 am - Noon
6120
Kendall

[+] Radio Broadcasting in Latin Jazz
Intro to Radio: Behind the Scenes with On Air Personality Cary Alexander of WDNA Radio. Have you ever thought of becoming a radio personality? Do you think that you have the voice and personality? Cary Alexander who hosts “The Latin Jazz Quarter”, a daily show on WDNA, will discuss some of the daily behind the scenes of what it takes to produce and host a successful radio show. Students should listen to show 3 times for a Q & A discussion before start of class.
Course fee: $49.00 Hours: 3
516044
3/7
S
9:00 am - Noon
6120
Kendall

[+] The Bass Guitar In Latin Jazz Holding the Bottom Together
Holding the Bottom Together-The Bass Guitar in Latin Jazz: The bass guitarist is responsible for holding the “bottom” or maintaining the rhythm of the entire group. Learn basic techniques and styles with Sal Cuevas who plays and records with the top Latin groups of today.
Course fee: $49.00 Hours: 3
516040
1/24
S
9:00 am - Noon
6120Community Education Master Music Workshops

[+] Composition on the Fly. Organize a Jam
This workshop demonstrates ways to create an ensemble performance in an improvised setting. Together, we will create music by converting and refining ideas into melodies and backgrounds. Students are encouraged to bring their instruments and imagination.
Course fee: $49.00 Hours: 3
Ref No
Dates
Days
Time
Room
Campus
516043
2/21
S
9:00 am - Noon
6120
Kendall

[+] I Recorded a Record, Now What?
Do you want to be a recording artist? Have you recorded a single/album? What should you do to begin to realize your dreams? An industry expert will provide useful and practical information that can help you put you on a path to success to include:what should be in your promotional package; can you do it on you own; major label vs. independent labels; the role of the internet.
Course fee: $49.00 Hours: 3
516042
2/7
S
9:00 am - Noon
5105
Kendall

[+] Jazz Drums
The Drums in Latin Jazz-Through discussion and demonstration Grammy award winning Nomar Negroni of Negroni’s Trio will show different rhythms for drums in Latin Jazz. You will also learn about the different styles and how they have changed over the years for drum playing in Latin Jazz.
Course fee: $49.00 Hours: 3
516047
4/25
S
9:00 am - Noon
6120
Kendall

[+] Latin Jazz Experience (Grades 6-12)
Music students of all levels will have a blast at the Miami Dade Kendall Campus for this daylong event. Bring your instruments, and play along with some of the top Latin Jazz artists and band Director Steve Kirkland. Your parents will be thrilled seeing you play in the concert scheduled at the end of the day. Lunch will be provided.
Course fee: $49.00 Hours: 6
516159
4/18
S
9:30 am - 3:30 pm
K413
Kendall

4/18
S
2:00 pm - 6:00 pm
6120
Latin Percussion-Styles Y Patrones
Course fee: $49.00 Hours: 3
516046
1/28
W
6:30 pm - 9:30 pm
6120
Kendall

Percussion in Latin Jazz
Course fee: $49.00 Hours: 3
516048
2/4
W
6:30 pm - 9:30 pm
K413
Kendall

[+] Piano in Latin Jazz
The Piano in Latin Jazz- The piano in all kinds of Latin music began with “montunos” and improvisations. In this workshop Javier Concepcion, Latin music recording artist, will enlighten you to the “roots” and beginnings of the piano in Latin Jazz. Learn the history and get an earful of the different styles of piano that have evolved from the 1920’s and 30’s Big Band and jazz era musicians.
Course fee: $49.00 Hours: 3
516045
2/28
S
9:00 am - Noon
6120
Kendall
[+] Radio Broadcasting in Latin Jazz
Intro to Radio: Behind the Scenes with On Air Personality Cary Alexander of WDNA Radio. Have you ever thought of becoming a radio personality? Do you think that you have the voice and personality? Cary Alexander who hosts “The Latin Jazz Quarter”, a daily show on WDNA, will discuss some of the daily behind the scenes of what it takes to produce and host a successful radio show. Students should listen to show 3 times for a Q & A discussion before start of class.
Course fee: $49.00 Hours: 3
516044
3/7
S
9:00 am - Noon
6120
Kendall

[+] The Bass Guitar In Latin Jazz Holding the Bottom Together
Holding the Bottom Together-The Bass Guitar in Latin Jazz: The bass guitarist is responsible for holding the “bottom” or maintaining the rhythm of the entire group. Learn basic techniques and styles with Sal Cuevas who plays and records with the top Latin groups of today.
Course fee: $49.00 Hours: 3
516040
1/24
S
9:00 am - Noon
6120
Kendall

[+] Timbales in Latin Jazz
Timbales in Latin Jazz- “Timbales Latines” were invented in the early 20th century as a more portable replacement for the standard large Timpani drum. Edwin Bonilla, a master “timbalero” will discuss the history of the timbales in Latin Jazz and demonstrate using a variety of stick and hand strokes, rim shots and rolls on the skins to produce a wide range of percussive expressions.
Course fee: $49.00 Hours: 3
516041
1/31
S
9:00 am - Noon
6120
Kendall* End of List *
Kendall

[+] Timbales in Latin Jazz
Timbales in Latin Jazz- “Timbales Latines” were invented in the early 20th century as a more portable replacement for the standard large Timpani drum. Edwin Bonilla, a master “timbalero” will discuss the history of the timbales in Latin Jazz and demonstrate using a variety of stick and hand strokes, rim shots and rolls on the skins to produce a wide range of percussive expressions.
Course fee: $49.00 Hours: 3
516041
1/31
S
9:00 am - Noon
6120
Kendall* End of List *

Monday, December 29, 2008

ST. JOHN’S BLUES FESTIVAL LINE-UP ANNOUNCED

7th ANNUAL ST. JOHN’S BLUES FESTIVAL

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18th
SUN DOG CAFE AND GEKKO GAZEBO
MONGOOSE JUNCTION - CRUZ BAY
8:00 PM
CRUZ BAY OPENING BLUES FESTIVAL PARTY
BILLY GIBSON & MITCH WOODS
FREE

ISLAND BLUES
CORAL BAY
8:00 PM
CORAL BAY OPENING BLUES FESTIVAL PARTY
THE DEB CALLAHAN BLUES BAND
FREE

SHIPWRECK LANDING
CORAL BAY
8:00 PM
CORAL BAY OPENING BLUES FESTIVAL PARTY
DAVE GERARD & GROOVE THANG

THURSDAY, MARCH 19th
THE BEACH BAR
WHARFSIDE VILLAGE - CRUZ BAY
8:00 PM
BILLY GIBSON & MITCH WOODS


AQUA BISTRO RESTAURANT & BAR
AT COCCOLOBA - CORAL BAY
8:00 PM
LIVE BLUES MUSIC ALL NIGHT LONG
FREE

FRIDAY, MARCH 20th
SHIPWRECK LANDING RESTAURANT & BAR
CORAL BAY
8:00 PM
BILLY GIBSON & MITCH WOODS
FREE

SATURDAY - MARCH 21st
ISLAND BLUES
CORAL BAY
3:00 PM TO 6:00 PM
"TGIB" - THANK GOD IT'S BLUES DAY PARTY
BILLY GIBSON & MITCH WOODS

THE 7th ANNUAL ST. JOHN BLUES FESTIVAL
CORAL BAY BALL FIELD - CORAL BAY
7:00 PM
STARRING:
2007 BLUES ENTERTAINER OF THE YEAR MS. JANIVA MAGNESS
ZAC HARMON BLUES BAND
2007 IBC FINALISTS THE RUSTY WRIGHT BLUES BAND
2008 IBC WINNERS TRAMPLED UNDER FOOT
ADVANCE TICKETS - $25
TICKETS @ THE GATE - $30
TICKETS WILL GO ON SALE JANUARY 7TH, 2009
ADVANCE LOCATIONS POSTED SHORTLY
FOOD AND BEVERAGE SERVICE WILL BE AVAILABLE ALL
EVENING
BRING A BLANKET, BRING A CHAIR BUT PLEASE BE
COOL.....NO COOLERS
SAFARI TAXI RIDES AVAILABLE ALL EVENING FROM CRUZ BAY
FERRY DOCK TO CORAL BAY BALL FIELD AND BACK FOR $5 EACH WAY
LATE NIGHT FERRY TO RED HOOK AT 1:00 AM

SUNDAY, MARCH 22nd
CLOSING BLUES FESTIVAL PARTY
THE BEACH BAR - WHARFSIDE VILLAGE - CRUZ BAY
4:00 PM TO 7:30 PM
SURPRISE GUEST BLUES ARTISTS
FREE

additional information at: stjohnbluesfestival.com

New Year's Eve Celebrations in S. Florida w/ Jazz or Blues

We are working on putting a list together and hope to have it posted by this evening. If you know of something we may not be aware of, let us know!
Thanks!

Sunday, December 28, 2008

Wynton Marsalis Tour Schedule

01/09/2009 - 01/10/2009 in Easton, MD Avalon Theatre
01/15/2009 in Wilmington, NC University of North Carolina Wilmington:
01/16/2009 in Charleston, SC Charleston Music Hall
01/17/2009 in Virginia Beach, VA Sandler Center for the Performing Arts
01/18/2009 in Chapel Hill, NC Memorial Hall
01/22/2009 in Miami, FL The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts
01/23/2009 in Daytona Beach, FL Mary McLeod Bethune PAC
01/24/2009 in Jacksonville, FL UNF Fine Arts Center: Lazzara Hall
01/25/2009 in Naples, FL Philharmonic Center for the Arts
01/27/2009 in Sarasota, FL Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall
01/29/2009 in Savannah, GA Trustees Theater
01/30/2009 in Atlanta, GA Atlanta Symphony Hall
02/19/2009 - 02/21/2009 in New York, NY Rose Theater (JALC)
02/27/2009 in Chicago, IL Symphony Hall
02/28/2009 in Springfield, IL UofI at Springfield: Sangamon Auditorium
03/01/2009 in Indianapolis, IN The Madame Walker Theater
03/03/2009 in Sioux City, IA Orpheum Theater
03/06/2009 - 03/07/2009 in Minneapolis, MN Orchestra Hall
03/08/2009 in Milwaukee, WI Uihlein Hall: Marcus PAC
03/10/2009 in Ann Arbor, MI University of Michigan: Hill Auditorium
03/15/2009 in Boston, MA Boston Symphony Hall
03/16/2009 in Washington, DC Kennedy Center: Concert Hall
03/19/2009 in Bergen, NJ Bergen Performing Arts Center
03/20/2009 in Philadelphia, PA Kimmel Center
03/21/2009 in Morristown, NJ Mayo Center for the Performing Arts
04/16/2009 - 04/18/2009 in New York, NY Rose Theater (JALC)
04/24/2009 in New Orleans, LA NO Jazz and Heritage Festival: Jazz Tent
05/10/2009 in New York, NY Avery Fisher Hall
02/09/2009 - 02/10/2009 in New York, NY Rose Theater
04/25/2009 in New Orleans, LA NO Jazz and Heritage Festival

BB King Tour Schedule

#JazzBluesFlorida #jazz #blues #Florida #Concerts #Festivals #Clubs


12/29/2008 House of Blues - Anaheim, Anaheim, CA
12/31/2008 Warnors Centre For The Perf. Arts, Fresno, CA,
1/02/2009 Chumash Casino, Santa Ynez, CA
1/03/2009 Star of the Desert Arena, Primm, NV,
1/04/2009 House of Blues, San Diego, CA
2/05/2009 Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater, FL
2/06/2009 UCF Arena, Orlando, FL
2/10/2009 Shoreline Ballroom, Hilton Head Island, SC
2/12/2009 Ryman Auditorium, Nashville, TN
2/14/2009 Midland Theatre (1) Kansas City, MO,
2/15/2009 Louisville Palace Theatre, Louisville, KY,
2/16/2009 Fox Theatre, Detroit, MI
2/18/2009 Providence Perf. Arts Ctr., Providence, RI,
2/20/2009 Constitution Hall, Washington, DC, DC
2/21/2009 Beacon Theatre, New York, NY,
2/22/2009 House of Blues (5) Boston, MA
2/24/2009 Count Basie Theatre, Red Bank, NJ,
3/25/2009 Murat Centre, Indianapolis, IN,
3/27/2009 House of Blues - Cleveland, Cleveland, OH,
3/28/2009 Rochester Auditorium Ctr., Rochester, NY,
3/29/2009 Lyric Opera House, Baltimore, MD,
3/31/2009 State Theatre Center for the Arts, Easton, PA,
4/01/2009 Keswick Theatre, Glenside, PA,
4/09/2009 First Tier Events Center, Kearney, NE
4/10/2009 Boulder Theater, Boulder, CO,
4/11/2009 Casper Events Center, Casper, WY,
4/14/2009 Kingsbury Hall, Salt Lake City, UT,
4/16/2009 Fox Oakland Theater, Oakland, CA

Saturday, December 27, 2008

Music on the Plaza at Marina Square - Ft. Pierce, FL

#JazzBluesFlorida #jazz #blues #Florida #Concerts #Festivals #Clubs

The City of Fort Pierce, Fort Pierce Redevelopment Agency, and BlueBird Productions, Inc. presents Music on the Plaza at Marina Square, a new and exciting event taking take place the second Sunday of each month until May 10, 2009. The location of this event is Marina Square on Melody Lane in Historic Downtown Fort Pierce. This event runs from 12:00 noon until 4:00 Pm. This free event features a variety of musical genres from Rock to Pop, R&B, Country, Roots and Americana, Latin-Jazz and Salsa, and Jazz & Blues.

The Sunday January 11, 2009 event will open with Smoothskin a great local smooth-jazz band from Port St. Lucie and the featured act will be the Treasure Coast's favorite Ossie Wright and the Groove Division Band laying down the best smooth-jazz and r&b sounds. www.groovedivisionband.com

This event is surely to become a Sunday afternoon staple. Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy great music, food, and beverage the second Sunday of each month beginning Sunday October 12, 2008 from 12:00 noon until 4:00 Pm. For more information visit www.bluebirdshows.com or call (772) 979-6176

--
BlueBird Productions
809 Delaware Avenue
Fort Pierce, Florida 34950
(772) 979-6176
Fax (772) 460-6491
www.bluebirdshows.com

Friday, December 26, 2008

Gold Coast Jazz to Host Monthly Jazz Jams

#JazzBluesFlorida #jazz #blues #Florida #Concerts #Festivals #Clubs

Gold Coast Jazz to Host Monthly Jazz Jams with a Grant from the John S. and James L. Knight FoundationFort Lauderdale, FL - The Gold Coast Jazz Society is honored to announce the award of an $18,000 grant from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation for the Society’s educational project, First Friday Jazz Jams. The Gold Coast Jazz Society was one of only 31 awardees of the Knight Foundation Arts Partnership grant initiative and one of three organization awarded grants from Broward County. Grant award winners were publicly announced at a special reception held on Dec. 1 at the Miami Art Museum in Miami, Florida.

The $18,000 matching grant from the Knight Foundation will assist Gold Coast Jazz in the first two years of the new educational project, First Friday Jazz Jams. This project, a monthly live jazz jam session to be held at ArtServe in Ft. Lauderdale, will provide students of all ages a chance to perform for free with veteran professional jazz musicians. A live professional backline will be provided for each First Friday Jazz Jam. The “Jams” will be open to students from area middle schools, high schools, colleges, universities as well as to the general public. “This intergenerational community event will provide parents, teachers, students and the public a chance to witness the development of local young jazz talent,” said Pam Dearden, Executive Director of the Gold Coast Jazz Society. “We are indeed privileged to be among the very few to be awarded a grant by this prestigious foundation.” Videos of the other 2008 winners of the Knight Foundation Arts Partnership can be viewed at www.KnightArts.org .

Knight Foundation is the presenting sponsor for the First Friday Jazz Jams project. The Knight Foundation Arts Partnership is a five-year, $40 million initiative to transform the South Florida arts. The effort includes endowment grants to leading arts institutions, plus a community-wide contest to fund the best arts ideas. Other sponsors for the First Friday Jazz Jams project include the HI Foundation, Barbara Cooper, the Florida Marlins Community Foundation, Publix Super Market Charities, DeMeo Young McGrath – Certified Public Accountants and Consultants and ArtServe.

The kick-off event for the First Friday Jazz Jams program will occur on Friday, January 9, 2009 from 7:00pm – 10:00pm at ArtServe, 1350 E. Sunrise Blvd. Ft. Lauderdale. Admission is free and open to the public. The remaining the First Friday Jazz Jams will occur on Feb. 6, March 6, April 3, May 1 and June 5.

The Gold Coast Jazz Society is a not-for-profit organization that is dedicated to the preservation and promotion of jazz music through a mainstage concert series, free community concerts, jazz education programs, a jazz scholarship program and other events. For more information call the Gold Coast Jazz Society office at 954-524-0805 or visit the Gold Coast Jazz website at www.goldcoastjazz.org.

Funding for the Gold Coast Jazz Society is provided in part by the Broward County Board of County Commissioners as recommended by the Broward Cultural Council, and by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Arts Council, the National Endowment for the Arts and Funding Arts Broward.

# # #

About the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation

The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation promotes excellence in journalism worldwide and invests in the vitality of the U.S. communities where the Knight brothers owned newspapers. The Knight Foundation focuses on projects with the potential to create transformational change. For more information, visit www.knightfoundation.org.


Pam Dearden
Executive Director
Gold Coast Jazz Society
1350 E. Sunrise Blvd.
Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33304
954-524-0805 954-525-7880 (FAX)
www.goldcoastjazz.org
Gold Coast Jazz Society The Best in Classic Jazz...

Tuesday, December 23, 2008

#JazzBluesFlorida #jazz #blues #Florida #Concerts #Festivals #Clubs

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
January 10, 2008 - 8:00 p.m.
South Florida JAZZ welcomes the Tiger Woods of jazz piano, Eldar, with his trio making his first appearance in the state of Florida.

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL - South Florida's premier modern jazz organization is excited to be the first jazz presenters to feature the 21-year-old piano phenom Eldar Djangirov. This is actually a sneak preview, as Eldar returns on January 25 to board the m/s Westerdam's Playboy Jazz Cruise along with many other jazz luminaries. At this concert, SFJ will announce the winner of a free cabin on the cruise raffled off among SFJ cruise purchasers.

This concert takes place at the 500-seat Rose & Alfred Miniaci Performing Arts Center on the Nova Southeastern University campus, 3100 Ray Ferrero, Jr Blvd in Davie 33314. Tickets are $35 ($25 for South Florida JAZZ members and $10 for students at any level with I.D.) and may be purchased from the AutoNation Box Office by calling 954.462.0222 in Broward County; also toll-free at 877-311-SHOW, as well as online at: southfloridajazz.org, the presenting organization's official Website.

For more details visit: southfloridajazz.org

Few wear the prodigy/virtuoso label better than Eldar Djangirov, the 21-year-old pianistic phenomenon. Born in Bishkek, Kyrgystan, a former Soviet republic, Eldar, born to a classical pianist mother and a jazz-loving father, began his studies at the age of three and it was quickly apparent that this child had a special talent. At nine he performed at a jazz festival in Novosibirsk, Siberia, impressing an American patron who then obtained consecutive summer scholarships for him at the prestigious Interlochen Center for the Arts in Michigan. Meanwhile, the family decided to immigrate to Kansas City, Missouri, which they recognized as a historical center for jazz.

Some have called him the Tiger Woods of jazz piano. Since immigrating to America at 12, Eldar has dazzled fans and critics with his extraordinary technique drawn from Art Tatum and Oscar Peterson. He appeared on Marian McPartland's Piano Jazz that same year and then Billy Taylor did a feature on him on the CBS Sunday Morning show. Not a bad start for a kid.

With three acclaimed CDs under his own name on Sony with guest artists like Michael Brecker and Chris Botti, Eldar is now a major artist. His most recent CD, Re-imagination, was nominated for a prestigious Grammy Award in 2007 for Best Contemporary Jazz Album. Having discovered the "inner Eldar" he is a truly brilliant performer who no longer feels the need to overplay, a criticism of his teenage years. Along with the obvious influences above, Eldar cites as heroes Herbie Hancock, Chick Corea Brad Mehldau, Gonzalo Rubalcaba, Michael Brecker, Pat Metheny, and Kurt Rosenwinkel. Entering the eclectic mix are classical pianists, Evgeny Kissin and Arcadi Volodos, plus Bjork, Sting and Radiohead.

Eldar's trio has players familiar to South Florida audiences. Bassist Armando Gola also plays with Gonzalo Rubalcaba and Arturo Sandoval. Cuban-born drummer Ludwig Alfonso studied at University of Miami and played with Ira Sullivan, Othello Molineaux, and Sammy Figueroa before leaving for New York and a stint with Spyro Gyra. Both players are in great demand.

Funding for this organization is provided in part by the Broward County Board of County Commissioners as recommended by the Broward Cultural Council.

Monday, December 22, 2008

Gold Coast Jazz Society to Host jams with Grant Money

#JazzBluesFlorida #jazz #blues #Florida #Concerts #Festivals #Clubs

Gold Coast Jazz to Host Monthly Jazz Jams with a Grant from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation

Fort Lauderdale, FL - The Gold Coast Jazz Society is honored to announce the award of an $18,000 grant from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation for the Society’s educational project, First Friday Jazz Jams. The Gold Coast Jazz Society was one of only 31 awardees of the Knight Foundation Arts Partnership grant initiative and one of three organization awarded grants from Broward County. Grant award winners were publicly announced at a special reception held on Dec. 1 at the Miami Art Museum in Miami, Florida.

The $18,000 matching grant from the Knight Foundation will assist Gold Coast Jazz in the first two years of the new educational project, First Friday Jazz Jams. This project, a monthly live jazz jam session to be held at ArtServe in Ft. Lauderdale, will provide students of all ages a chance to perform for free with veteran professional jazz musicians. A live professional backline will be provided for each First Friday Jazz Jam. The “Jams” will be open to students from area middle schools, high schools, colleges, universities as well as to the general public. “This intergenerational community event will provide parents, teachers, students and the public a chance to witness the development of local young jazz talent,” said Pam Dearden, Executive Director of the Gold Coast Jazz Society. “We are indeed privileged to be among the very few to be awarded a grant by this prestigious foundation.” Videos of the other 2008 winners of the Knight Foundation Arts Partnership can be viewed at www.KnightArts.org .

Knight Foundation is the presenting sponsor for the First Friday Jazz Jams project. The Knight Foundation Arts Partnership is a five-year, $40 million initiative to transform the South Florida arts. The effort includes endowment grants to leading arts institutions, plus a community-wide contest to fund the best arts ideas. Other sponsors for the First Friday Jazz Jams project include the HI Foundation, Barbara Cooper, the Florida Marlins Community Foundation, Publix Super Market Charities, DeMeo Young McGrath – Certified Public Accountants and Consultants and ArtServe.

The kick-off event for the First Friday Jazz Jams program will occur on Friday, January 9, 2009 from 7:00pm – 10:00pm at ArtServe, 1350 E. Sunrise Blvd. Ft. Lauderdale. Admission is free and open to the public. The remaining the First Friday Jazz Jams will occur on Feb. 6, March 6, April 3, May 1 and June 5.

The Gold Coast Jazz Society is a not-for-profit organization that is dedicated to the preservation and promotion of jazz music through a mainstage concert series, free community concerts, jazz education programs, a jazz scholarship program and other events. For more information call the Gold Coast Jazz Society office at 954-524-0805 or visit the Gold Coast Jazz website at www.goldcoastjazz.org.

Funding for the Gold Coast Jazz Society is provided in part by the Broward County Board of County Commissioners as recommended by the Broward Cultural Council, and by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Arts Council, the National Endowment for the Arts and Funding Arts Broward.
# # #
About the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation
The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation promotes excellence in journalism worldwide and invests in the vitality of the U.S. communities where the Knight brothers owned newspapers. The Knight Foundation focuses on projects with the potential to create transformational change. For more information, visit www.knightfoundation.org.


Pam Dearden
Executive Director
Gold Coast Jazz Society
1350 E. Sunrise Blvd.
Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33304
954-524-0805 954-525-7880 (FAX)
www.goldcoastjazz.org
Gold Coast Jazz Society The Best in Classic Jazz...

Friday, December 19, 2008

40th ANNIVERSARY NEW ORLEANS JAZZ & HERITAGE FESTIVAL LINE-UP

#JazzBluesFlorida #jazz #blues #Florida #Concerts #Festivals #Clubs


GO TO NEW ORLEANS JAZZ & HERITAGE FOR DETAILS

APRIL 24 - 26 (1st WEEKEND)

Wynton Marsalis, Dave Matthews Band, James Taylor, Joe Cocker, Earth Wind & Fire, Wilco, Spoon, Erykah Badu, Irma Thomas, Orishas, Third World, Robert Cray, Etta James & the Roots Band, Mavis Staples, Drive-By Truckers feat. Booker T. Jones, Johnny Winter, Pete Seeger, Hugh Masekela, Better Than Ezra, Sharon Jones & the Dap Kings, Galactic, Roy Haynes, Pete Fountain, Avett Brothers, Kinky, Roy Rogers, Del McCoury Band, Terence Blanchard, Marc Broussard, DJ Jubilee with 5th Ward Weebie and Ms. Tee, Buckwheat Zydeco's 30th Anniversary feat. The Hitchhikers, Tab Benoit, Locos por Juana, Trombone Shorty, Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra, Yacub Addy and Odadaa of Ghana, Rebirth Brass Band Reunion with Kermit Ruffins, Ivan Neville & Dumpstaphunk, Big Sam's Funky Nation, Terrance Simien & the Zydeco Experience, Amanda Shaw & the Cute Guys, Donald Harrison, The Anointed Jackson Sisters, Tribute to Mahalia Jackson featuring Irma Thomas, Mavis Staples, and Pamela Landrum, Chris Smither, Henry Butler, Papa Grows Funk, Robert Mirabal, Harlem Blues & Jazz Band, Rockin' Dopsie, Jr. & the Zydeco Twisters, Sonny Landreth, Benjy Davis Project, The Vettes, Mem Shannon & the Membership, Stephanie Jordan, Warren Storm, Willie Tee and Cypress feat. Tommy McLain and T K Hulin, Astral Project, Ladysmith Redlions of South Africa, Don Vappie & the Creole Jazz Serenaders, Amammereso Agofomma of Ghana, The Dixie Cups, Chubby Carrier & the Bayou Swamp Band, Germaine Bazzle, John Mooney & Bluesiana, Marlon Jordan, Tabby Thomas, Spencer Bohren, Savoy Music Center of Eunice Saturday Cajun Jam, Dew Drop Inn Revisited hosted by Deacon John feat. Wanda Rouzan, Eddie Bo, Allen Toussaint, Robert Parker, and Al "Carnival Time" Johnson, Paul Sanchez & the Rolling Road Show, Wayne Toups & Zydecajun, Leroy Jones presents the Fairview Brass Band Reunion Tribute to Danny Barker, Bruce Daigrepont, Vivaz!, Pfister Sisters' 30th Anniversary, Gringo do Choro, Dr. Michael White & the Original Liberty Jazz Band, Thais Clark, Big Chief Monk Boudreaux & the Golden Eagles Mardi Gras Indians, Henry Gray & the Cats, Joe Krown, Walter "Wolfman" Washington & Russell Batiste, Jr., Lil' Buck Sinegal Blues Band, EOE, Pine Leaf Boys, Ebony Hillbillies, Crescent City Allstars feat. James Andrews, Hot 8 Brass Band, Schatzy, Jake Smith, 19th Street Red Blues Band, Brasilliance!, Mighty Chariots of Fire, Sharde Thomas & the Rising Star Fife & Drum Band, Chris Owens, Topsy Chapman, New Bumpers' Revival Jazz Band of France, Zulu Male Ensemble, Jo "Cool" Davis, Leah Chase, Herlin Riley, Roderick Paulin, Mahogany Brass Band, Ingrid Lucia, MyNameisJohnMichael, Texas Johnny Brown & the Quality Blues Band, Rockie Charles & the Stax of Love, AsheSon, Jim McCormick, Lil' Malcolm & the House Rockers, Dwayne Dopsie & the Zydeco Hellraisers, Thomas "Big Hat" Fields & his Foot Stompin' Zydeco Band, Guitar Slim, Jr., Storyville Stompers Brass Band, Willis Prudhomme & Zydeco Express, Lost Bayou Ramblers, Waterseed, Creole Wild West and Golden Blade Mardi Gras Indians, DJ Hektik & the New Orleans Society of Dance with Freedia and Nobi, Tipsy Chicks, Jonno Frishberg & Bayou DeVille, Christian Serpas & Ghost Town, Kumbuka African Drum and Dance Collective, NewBirth Brass Band, High Ground Drifters Bluegrass Band, New Orleans Night Crawlers Brass Band, Hadley Castille & the Sharecropper Band, Carrollton Hunters and Cherokee Hunters Mardi Gras Indians, Big Steppers, Furious Five, and Untouchables SAPCs, Patrice Fisher & Arpa feat. special guests from Brazil, Clive Wilson's New Orleans Serenaders feat. Butch Thompson, Young Tuxedo Brass Band, Betty Winn & One A-Chord, McDonogh #35 High School Gospel Choir, Sophisticated Ladies feat. Barbara Shorts, Leslie Smith, Cindy Scott, and Judy Spellman, Golden Comanche and Seminoles Mardi Gras Indians, N.O.C.C.A. Jazz Ensemble, Real Untouchables Brass Band, Olympia Aid, New Look & First Division SAPCs, New Orleans Jazz Vipers, Tommy Sancton, Society Brass Band, Connie Jones, St. Joseph the Worker Music Ministry, UNO Jazz Combo, June Gardner & the Fellas, New Orleans Spiritualettes, Smitty Dee's Brass Band, Kid Simmons' Local International Allstars, Semolian Warriors, Comanche Hunters, and Golden Star Hunters Mardi Gras Indians, Louisiana Repertory Jazz Ensemble, Tyronne Foster & the Arc Singers, Loyola University Jazz Ensemble, Franklin Avenue B.C. Mass Choir, Small Souljas Brass Band, Val & the Love Alive Fellowship Choir, Single Ladies, Family Ties, Big Nine, and Keep N It Real SAPCs, Second Mount Carmel Gospel Choir, Xavier University Jazz Ensemble, Heritage School of Music Band, Gospel Soul Children, Nine Times Men, Single Men, Dumaine Gang, Divine Ladies, and Lady Jetsetters SAPCs, Red, White & Blue and Wild Mohican Mardi Gras Indians, Reverend Charles Jackson & the Jackson Travelers, Nineveh B.C. Mass Choir, Kid Simmon's Local International Allstars, Voices of St. Peter Claver, David & Roselyn, Grayhawk, Washboard Leo, Red Hot Brass Band, Kayla Woodson & Louisiana Lightnin'....



40th ANNIVERSARY
NEW ORLEANS JAZZ & HERITAGE FESTIVAL
PRESENTED BY SHELL
APRIL 30 - MAY 3 (2nd WEEKEND)

Aretha Franklin, TBA, Sugarland, Ben Harper & Relentless7, Tony Bennett, Kings of Leon, The Neville Brothers, Bonnie Raitt, Common, Emmylou Harris, Dr. John, Buddy Guy, Los Lobos, The O'Jays, Toots & the Maytals, Allen Toussaint, John Mayall, Solomon Burke, Doc Watson, Maze featuring Frankie Beverly, The Whispers, Jakob Dylan, Chuck Brown, Meter Men: Zig, George, and Leo, Kurt Elling, Rance Allen, Cowboy Mouth, Guy Clark, Radiators, Aaron Neville, Lil' Ed & the Blues Imperials, Tab Benoit & the Wetland Allstars, Marcia Ball, Ellis Marsalis, Kermit Ruffins & the Barbecue Swingers, Dirty Dozen Brass Band, Poncho Sanchez Latin Jazz Band, Jon Cleary & the Absolute Monster Gentlemen, Frankie Ford, BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet, Mississippi Mass Choir, Walter "Wolfman" Washington & the Roadmasters, Anders Osborne, the subdudes, Esperanza Spalding, Patty Griffin, Deacon John, Chris Thomas King, Kind of Blue @ 50 Tribute to Miles Davis feat. Jimmy Cobb, Wallace Roney, Larry Willis, and Buster Williams, John Scofield & the Piety Street Band, George Wein & the Newport Allstars feat. Randy Brecker, VaShawn Mitchell & Friends, Nicholas Payton, Linda Tillery & the Cultural Heritage Choir, Irvin Mayfield & the New Orleans Jazz Orchestra, Bonerama, Preservation Hall Jazz Band, The Genius of Sidney Bechet: A Tribute feat. Bob Wilber, Dr. Michael White, and Brian "Breeze" Cayolle, Delfeayo Marsalis Quintet, Geno Delafose & French Rockin' Boogie, Nathan & the Zydeco Cha Chas, Theresa Andersson, Cedric Burnside & Lightnin' Malcolm, Bobby Lounge feat. Sarah Quintana, Chieck Hamala Diabate of Mali, The Iguanas, Treme Brass Band, Lars Edegran & the New Orleans Ragtime Orchestra, Lionel Ferbos & the Palm Court Jazz Band, Fredy Omar con su Banda, Rosie Ledet & the Zydeco Playboys, Big Chief Bo Dollis & the Wild Magnolias, Soul Rebels, Steve Riley & the Mamou Playboys, Luther Kent & Trickbag, Banu Gibson's Hot Jazz with Bucky Pizzarelli, Mark Braud, Sunpie & the Louisiana Sunspots, Marva Wright & the BMWs, Kenny Bill Stinson & the Ark-LA-Mystics, Gregg Stafford's Jazz Hounds' Tribute to Danny Barker feat. Juanita Brooks, Eric Lindell, C.J. Chenier & the Red Hot Louisiana Band, Rumba Buena, Roddie Romero & the Hub City Allstars, Charmaine Neville Band, Eddie Bo, Ori Danse Club of Benin, Crocodile Gumboot Dancers of South Africa, Rotary Downs, George French & the New Orleans Storyville Jazz Band, Walter Payton & Filé Gumbo, Dash Rip Rock, John Boutté, Sonny Bourg & the Bayou Blues Band, Johnny Sketch & the Dirty Notes, Sherman Robertson, Honey Island Swamp Band, The Revealers, I'Voire Spectacle feat. Seguenon Kone, Alex McMurray, 101 Runners, Midnite Disturbers, Paulin Brothers Brass Band, Big Chief Peppy & the Golden Arrows Mardi Gras Indians, D.L. Menard & the Louisiana Aces, James Rivers Movement, Otra, Tony Green's Gypsy Jazz, New Orleans Klezmer Allstars, John Rankin, Betsy McGovern & the Poor Clares, Kenny Neal, Lil' Brian & the Travelers, Jeremy Davenport, Keith Frank & the Soileau Zydeco Band, Jamal Batiste & the Jam-Allstars, Red Stick Ramblers, Ensemble Fatien feat. Seguenon Kone, Dr. Michael White, and Jason Marsalis, Sharon Martin, St. Louis Slim, Bryan Lee & the Blues Power Band, TBC Brass Band, Lady Rollers, Original C.T.C., and Nine Times Ladies SAPCs, Feufollet, War Chief Juan & Young Fire and White Cloud Hunters Mardi Gras Indians, New Orleans Bingo! Show, David Egan, Kidd Jordan-Al Fielder & the IAQ, Drew Landry Band, Driskill Mountain Boys, Jumpin' Johnny Sansone, Washboard Chaz, Bamboula 2000, Danza, Marisa y Mariachi Agave, J. Monque'D Blues Band, Cedric Watson, Twangorama, Higher Heights, Tim Laughlin, Elysian Fieldz, Percussion Inc., Pinettes Brass Band, Scene Boosters, Old N Nu Fellas, Secondline Jammers, and Ladies of Unity SAPCs, Little Freddie King Blues Band, Glen David Andrews, Po' Henry & Tookie, Sherman Washington & the Zion Harmonizers, Culu Children's Traditional African Dance Ensemble, Paky Saavedra's Bandido, New Orleans Mardi Gras Indian Rhythm Section, Bob French & the Original Tuxedo Jazz Band, Shamarr Allen, Free Agents Brass Band, Jambalaya Cajun Band, Benny Grunch & the Bunch, Javier Tobar & Elegant Gypsy, Creole Zydeco Farmers, Bonsoir Catin, Corey Ledet, Gina Brown, Reggie Hall & the Twilighters feat. Lady Bee, Forgotten Souls Brass Band, Young Magnolias, Golden Sioux, and Black Feathers Mardi Gras Indians, New Leviathan Oriental Foxtrot Orchestra, Westbank Steppers, Valley of Silent Men, and Pigeon Town Steppers SAPCs, Doreen's Jazz New Orleans, Truth Universal & Jimi Clever, Shades of Praise Gospel Singers, Brother Tyrone, Lazarus, Berard Family Band, New Orleans Jazz Ramblers, Courtney Bryan Trio, Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz, DJ Captain Charles, Blodie's Jazz Jam, New Orleans Helsinki Project, Original Last Straws, Chris Clifton, Panorama Jazz Band, Mario Abney, John Lee & the Heralds of Christ, Original Dixieland Jazz Band, Hot Club of New Orleans, The Moonshiners, Clarinet Woodshed feat. Evan Christopher and Gregory Agid, SUBR Jazz Ensemble, Michael Ward, DJ Soul Sister, The Johnson Extension, Black Eagles, Geronimo Hunters, Wild Tchoupitoulas, and Wild Apaches Mardi Gras Indians, Watson Memorial Teaching Ministries, Tulane University Jazz Ensemble, First Emmanuel Baptist Church Choir, Louis Ford & his New Orleans Flairs, Fi Yi Yi & the Mandingo Warriors, Red Hawk, and Black Seminoles Mardi Gras Indians, Leviticus Gospel Choir, Dillard University Jazz Ensemble, Bester Singers and the Dynamic Smooth Family Gospel Singers, Bon Temps Roulez, New Generation, and Undefeated Divas SAPCs, The Electrifying Crownseekers, Pinstripe Brass Band, Ebenezer Baptist Church Radio Choir, Trouble Nation, Black Eagles, and Ninth Ward Hunters Mardi Gras Indians, Famous Rocks of Harmony, Highsteppers Brass Band, McMain High School Gospel Choir, Voices of Distinction, Gal Holiday, Lyle Henderson & Emmanuel, Coolie Family Gospel Singers, Original Big 7 and Original 4 SAPCs, Tornado Brass Band, Eddie "Chops" Paris, Apache Hunters, Wild Red Flame, and Mohawk Hunters Mardi Gras Indians, Morning Star B.C. Mass Choir, New Wave Brass Band, Julio y Cesar Band, First Emmanuel Church Gospel Choir, Greater Antioch Full Gospel B.C. Mass Choir, Roderick Paulin, N'Kafu African Dance Ensemble, Original Prince of Wales and the Original Lady Buckjumpers SAPCs, Johnette Downing, Young Guardians of the Flame, Eric McAllister, N'Fungola Sibo West African Dance Company, Mt. Hermon B.C. Mass Choir

Thursday, December 18, 2008

New rules for dealing w/ people during these trying times...Day Three

#JazzBluesFlorida #jazz #blues #Florida #Concerts #Festivals #Clubs

1) Be nice. You never know when the person you are dealing with is just one little 'tap' from going over the edge in a manic psychotic wipe-out, that would of course, include you.

2) Be honest. Can’t pay that bill now? Tell them before not doing so draws someone else into your world of misery and despair. Somewhere down the line someone else needs the money, and if they can’t plan for not getting, it makes it worse for everyone. And we don’t want that, now, do we?

3) Be responsible. This may be the hardest short-term change to accomplish, but it will pay off the most in the long run. If you say you are going to do something; do it, and do it as best you can. And if things don’t work, take responsibility for it and do something to fix it. Inaction in delaying implementation and inaction and inaction in moving to correct things gone awry creates layers of pain that are heavier to lift with each passing moment nothing is done.

Wednesday, December 17, 2008

New rules for dealing w/ people during these trying times...Day Two

#JazzBluesFlorida #jazz #blues #Florida #Concerts #Festivals #Clubs


1) Be nice. You never know when the person/musician/club owner/server you are dealing with is just one little 'tap' from going over the edge in a manic psychotic wipe-out, that would of course, include you.

2) Be honest. Can’t pay that bill now? Tell them before not doing so draws someone else into your world of misery and despair. Somewhere down the line someone else needs the money, and if they can’t plan for not getting, it makes it worse for everyone. And we don’t want that, now, do we?

Tuesday, December 16, 2008

30th Blues Music Awards Nominees and Event Announced

December 16, 2008

MANNISH BOYS TOP NOMINATIONS WITH SIX; OTHERS NOMINATED INCLUDE BUDDY GUY, B.B. KING, ELVIN BISHOP, MAGIC SLIM

For a complete list of the 30th Blues Music Awards Nominees, see below.

WHAT: The Blues Music Awards
WHEN: Thursday, May 7, 2009
WHERE: Cook Convention Center, 255 N. Main, Memphis, TN
TICKETS: $125, available December 16, 2008 via http://www.blues.org or 901.527.2583 x10. (Tables of 10 are $1200.)

The Blues Foundation has confirmed the thirtieth annual Blues Music Awards, a seven-plus hour throw-down featuring dozens of incredible musicians and honoring the best of the blues world. Blues Foundation members will be able to vote starting today, through March 1, with the results determining the winners.

West coast-based group The Mannish Boys lead the pack this year with six nominations, including band, traditional album and album of the year in addition to individual nominations for band members Richard Innes (drums), Kid Ramos (guitar), and Larry Taylor (bass). Tied with four nominations each are slide guitar legend Elvin Bishop, pianist Eden Brent, songstress Janiva Magness, soul man Curtis Salgado, and former truck driver Watermelon Slim. Buddy Guy is nominated for three awards and B.B. King for two.

The Mississippi-based Homemade Jamz Blues Band are the youngest nominees at 9, 14, and 16 years of age. Sadly, Sean Costello received two posthumous nominations while Jeff Healey received one. Chicago elder statesman and torch bearer Magic Slim earned three nods. Lurrie Bell earned two nominations for an album he made while grieving the loss of his wife and his father, harp man Carrie Bell.

The Blues Foundation has added a Rock Blues category for the first time in 2009, with nominations going to Gary Moore, Jeff Healey, Michael Burks, Smokin' Joe Kubek & Bnois King, Sonny Landreth, and Walter Trout.

Performers have not yet been confirmed for the 2009 show but all nominees are invited to take the stage, showing a broad range of blues styles from solo resonator fingerpicking to soul-blues shouters. For the blues fan, it's the only way to see a lineup like this and it annually threatens to rage well into the night.

The awards ceremony and concert will be broadcast live by Sirius XM Satellite Radio's B.B. King's Bluesville channel. The Blues Music Awards will be shot in HD for a DVD to be released in by October, 2009.

The Blues Foundation has 3,000 individual dues-paying members around the world and 160 affiliated grassroots, member-based local blues societies in a dozen countries.

The Blues Music Awards are produced by The Blues Foundation, a non-profit organization established to preserve Blues history, celebrate Blues excellence, support Blues education and ensure the future of this uniquely American art form. In addition to the Blues Music Awards, the Foundation also produces the Blues Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, the International Blues Challenge and the Keeping the Blues Alive Awards. It fosters education through its Blues in the Schools programming and supports the medical needs of Blues musicians with its HART Fund.

Throughout the year, the Foundation staff serves the worldwide Blues community with answers, contact information and news. For more information or to join The Blues Foundation, log onto www.blues.org

2009 - 30th Blues Music Awards Nominees

Acoustic Album of the Year
Eden Brent - Mississippi Number One
Rory Block - Blues Walkin' Like a Man
Paul Rishell & Annie Raines - A Night in Woodstock
Hans Theessink & Terry Evans - Visions
Fiona Boyes, Mookie Brill & Rich Del Grosso - Live from Bluesville


Acoustic Artist of the Year
Doug MacLeod
Rory Block
Otis Taylor
Paul Rishell & Annie Raines
Eden Brent


Album of the Year
The Mannish Boys - Lowdown Feelin'
Curtis Salgado - Clean Getaway
Buddy Guy - Skin Deep
Janiva Magness - What Love Will Do
Elvin Bishop - The Blues Rolls On


B.B. King Entertainer of the Year
Janiva Magness
Watermelon Slim
Bobby Rush
Lil' Ed
Magic Slim


Band of the Year
Magic Slim & the Teardrops
Nick Moss & the Flip Tops
The Mannish Boys
Watermelon Slim & the Workers
Lil' Ed & the Blues Imperials


Best New Artist Debut
Chris James and Patrick Rynn - Stop and Think About It
Delta Highway - The Devil Had a Woman
Cedric Burnside & Lightnin' Malcolm - 2 Man Wrecking Crew
The Homemade Jamz Blues Band- Pay Me No Mind
Eden Brent - Mississippi Number One


Contemporary Blues Album of the Year
Elvin Bishop - The Blues Rolls On
Watermelon Slim & the Workers - No Paid Holidays
Janiva Magness - What Love Will Do
Sean Costello - We Can Get Together
Buddy Guy - Skin Deep


Contemporary Blues Female Artist of the Year
Gaye Adegbalola
Marcia Ball
Robin Rogers
Bettye LaVette
Janiva Magness


Contemporary Blues Male Artist of the Year
Michael Burks
Elvin Bishop
Sean Costello
Watermelon Slim
Buddy Guy


DVD
Broke & Hungry Records, Cathead Blues & Mudpuppy Recordings - M For Mississippi: A Road Trip Through The Birthplace of the Blues
Eagle Eye Media - Albert Collins Live at Montreaux 1992
Eagle Eye Media - Carlos Santana Plays Blues At Montreux 2004
Stony Plain Records - Ronnie Earl & Broadcasters - Hope Radio Sessions
Delmark Records - Little Arthur Duncan Live at Rosa's Blues Lounge


Historical Album of the Year
Eagle Records - Albert Collins Live At Montreaux 1992
Jamie Records - Barbara Lynn: The Jamie Singles 1962-1965
Delmark Records - On Highway 80 (Sleepy John Estes)
Ruf Records - Rich Man's War: New Blues & Roots Songs of Peace and Protest (Various Artists)
TopCat Records - Hollywood Fats & The Paladins Live 1985


Instrumentalist-Bass
Bob Stroger
Mookie Brill
Larry Taylor
Bill Stuve
Jeff Turmes


Instrumentalist-Drums
Cedric Burnside
Richard Innes
Jimi Bott
Tony Braunagel
Kenny Smith
Willie 'Big Eyes' Smith


Instrumentalist-Guitar
Sonny Landreth
Lurrie Bell
Michael Burks
Kid Ramos
Ronnie Earl


Instrumentalist-Harmonica
Steve Guyger
Billy Gibson
Mark Hummel
Jason Ricci
Rick Estrin
Willie 'Big Eyes' Smith


Instrumentalist-Horn
Deanna Bogart
Kaz Kazanoff
Terry Hanck
Keith Crossan
Doug James


Instrumentalist-Other
Johnny Sansone - Accordion
Bob Brozman - Mandolin, Ukulele
Otis Taylor - Banjo
Rich Del Grosso - Mandolin
Gerry Hundt - Mandolin


Pinetop Perkins Piano Player
Henry Butler
David Maxwell
Eden Brent
Bruce Katz
Marcia Ball


Rock Blues Album of the Year
Jeff Healey - Mess of Blues
Sonny Landreth - from the REACH
Michael Burks - Iron Man
Gary Moore - Bad for You Baby
Smokin' Joe Kubek & Bnois King - Blood Brothers
Walter Trout - The Outsider


Song of the Year
Dave Duncan & Curtis Salgado - 20 Years of B. B. King (Curtis Salgado)
Kenny Neal - Let Life Flow (Kenny Neal)
Elvin Bishop - The Blues Rolls On (Elvin Bishop)
Albert Castiglia - Bad Year Blues (Albert Castiglia)
Sonny Landreth - Blue Tarp Blues (Sonny Landreth)


Soul Blues Album of the Year
Irma Thomas - Simply Grand
Curtis Salgado - Clean Getaway
Jackie Payne Steve Edmondson Band- Overnight Sensation
Clarence Spady - Just Between Us
Johnny Rawls - Red Cadillac


Soul Blues Female Artist of the Year
Sharrie Williams
Irma Thomas
Jean Shy
Etta James
Denise LaSalle


Soul Blues Male Artist of the Year
Tad Robinson
Bobby Rush
Jackie Payne
Johnny Rawls
Curtis Salgado


Traditional Blues Album of the Year
Lil' Ed & the Blues Imperials - Full Tilt
B.B. King - One Kind Favor
Honeyboy Edwards - Roamin' and Ramblin'
Eddy 'The Chief' Clearwater - West Side Strut
The Mannish Boys - Lowdown Feelin'


Traditional Blues Female Artist of the Year
Koko Taylor
Maria Muldaur
Nora Jean Bruso
Diunna Greenleaf
Ruthie Foster


Traditional Blues Male Artist of the Year
B.B. King
Lurrie Bell
Magic Slim
Eddy 'The Chief' Clearwater
Honeyboy Edwards

Monday, December 15, 2008

Happy Birthday to Eddie Palmieri and Stan Kenton!

Eddie Palmieri (born December 15, 1936), is a Grammy Award winning Puerto Rican American pianist, bandleader and musician, best known for combining jazz piano and instrumental solos with Latin rhythms.

See Full Entry at: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eddie_Palmieri

Stanley Newcomb Kenton (December 15, 1911 – August 25, 1979)[1] was a pianist who led a highly innovative, influential, and often controversial American jazz orchestra. In later years he was widely active as an educator.

See Full Entry at: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stan_Kenton

Thursday, December 4, 2008

Tampa Bay Blues Festival March 20, 21, & 22, 2009

Tampa Bay Blues Festival March 20, 21, & 22, 2009

Friday - 3/20/09
12:30 p.m. Seth Walker
2:30 p.m. Lurrie Bell
4:30 p.m. COCO MONTOYA
6:30 p.m. CURTIS SALGADO
8:30 p.m. THE FABULOUS THUNDERBIRDS

Saturday, 3/21/09
11:30 a.m. Teresa James and the Rhythm Tramps
1:30 p.m. Eric Lindell
3:30 p.m. RUTHIE FOSTER
5:30 p.m. TOMMY CASTRO and THE LEGENDARY RHYTHM and BLUES REVUE
8:30 p.m. DELBERT MCCLINTON

Sunday, 3/22/09
1:00 p.m. Robin Rogers
2:30 p.m. Tinsley Ellis
4:30 p.m. DARRELL NULISCH
6:30 p.m. BERNARD ALLISON
8:30 p.m. IRMA THOMAS

The Official Tampa Bay Blues Festival "After Hours" Party is scheduled for Friday & Saturday nights, on March 20 & 21, 2009. This music party is hosted by Nova 535, a large, upscale special events venue located at 535 Dr. M.L. King Jr. Street North, St. Petersburg, Florida. Nova 535 is only a few minutes from Vinoy Park and customer parking is provided across the street from the club. All musicians from the festival will be invited, and this party will be the ultimate blues music celebration. The performers on Friday night include Robin Rogers and Coco Montoya, with special guest Kim Wilson. Saturday night features Teresa James & the Rhythm Tramps and the Tommy Castro Band. The doors open at 9:30 p.m. each evening. Nova offers three full liquor bars (cash), late night cuisine, and an intimate environment for enjoying great live blues.

Capacity at Nova is limited, and we encourage you to buy your tickets prior to the festival. This event will be a “sell out,” and you won’t want to miss this great opportunity. Advance tickets are available for $20.00, and all proceeds from the After Hours Party benefit our charity partner, the Pinellas Association for Retarded Children. To purchase a ticket, please visit our Buy Tickets Page.

Tampa Bay Blues Festival1535 Dr. M.L. King Jr. Street NorthSt. Petersburg, FL 33704727/502-5000 (Charles Ross)
727/502-5001 fax
cwross@tampabay.rr.com
www.tampabaybluesfest.com

Sunday, November 30, 2008

In case you haven’t decided about the Zac Harmon/Albert Castiglia Concert on 12/5

Performance Reviews

While vacationing in Paris, France, I had a chance to attend a blues show featuring D.C. Bellamy, whom I wrote about in the last issue. This issue will feature the headliner that performed at the same Paris show held at the Lionel Hampton Jazz Club.This jazz club is the most revered of jazz venues in Paris. It is named after Lionel Hampton, who still is considered a favorite jazz musician among the Parisians. The Lionel Hampton Jazz Club is located in the Le Meridian Hotel, a five star facility in the northwest part of the city. This is the venue that hosts the world’s biggest names in jazz and blues.The night I chose to attend a show at this venerable club, it happened to be the last night that Zac Harmon & the Mid South Blues Revue were performing in Paris. They, along with D.C. Bellamy, were completing a two week stint in Paris. Prior to their Paris show, they had been in the Bahamas. After Paris, these wonderful musicians were slated to tour Canada.D.C. Bellamy set the performance bar very high during the first half of the show. By the time he left the stage, he had the audience clapping wildly on its feet. By the time Zac Harmon took the stage, it was clear that we were all prepared to be disappointed. After such a spirited performance, it was hard to imagine anything to surpass it.Zac Harmon took the stage quietly. He looked rather subdued and somber as he stood quietly. The audience connected with his quiet demeanor and silence fell over the large and crowded room. This quiet moment gave all of us an opportunity to study Zac Harmon’s tall frame. Age and the challenges of life were easily visible on his face.Zac opened up with an impassioned gospel song. He and the band played the song as if they were deep in a prayerful trance, in a state that ignored the presence of the audience. This was raw emotion and spirituality and the audience understood. The musical wizardry that the band was capable of was forgotten as they prayed on with their instruments.After the gospel rendition, Zac Harmon & the Mid South Blues Revue brought Zac’s native Mississippi sound to the multi-national crowd. The band’s sound was intense and unrelenting. Zac’s Fender Stratocaster wailed loudly at times, and it moaned softly at other times. At no time did the band release its iron grip on the audience.Harmon’s roots ooze out of his music and are the foundation of his experiences. Even when talking to the diverse audience in the club, he used colloquialisms from Mississippi. For those who did not understand either Zac’s language or the Mississippi vernacular, the music did the talking. Harmon’s long life of experiences came through in his music. We re-lived the ebb and flow of his life through his performance. As a performer, he is a "no frills" musician. Those who want the most music out of a show would be very please by Zac Harmon. Although he does not waste precious time talking endlessly, he does share enough of himself and his background for the audience to know who he is and where he is from.In appearance, Zac Harmon could be mistaken for a preacher. The large and prominent cross on the front of his guitar strap only helps to confirm the suspicion. He is clean cut, conservatively dressed, and clearly is a very disciplined man. His love of gospel and the way he plays gospel songs is proof of how much time he has spent in church. However, the gospel Harmon is preaching around the world is that of the blues. In many ways, it is not so far fetched to call him a preacher.If you should be curious to find out more about Zac Harmon, his performance schedule, and his recordings, surf over to his website at www.zacharmon.com or check out his record label’s website at www.bluestonerecords.com.That’s the word from Chicago y’all!

Vuyani Wakaba - The Walla Walla Blues Society
(Jun 8, 2005)
2004-02-04 - Blues First Weekend Best Yet!The BluesFirst weekend just concluded and what a great series of events. The panels, the receptions, the old friends are all part of it. The Keeping the Blues Alive Awards ceremony Saturday morning had folks verklempf throughout the ceremony as one recipient after another talked about how much the award meant to them.The marquee event of course was the 20th International Blues Challenge. With a record 94 acts, the competition was better than ever.First place in the band contest was awarded Saturday night to Zac Harmon and the Midsouth Blues Revue (Southern California Blues Society-Los Angeles CA). Coming in second, Reverend Slick and the Soul Blues Boys (Howlin Wolf Blues Society—West Point MS). Third place went to The Matthew Stubbs Band (Boston Blues Society—Boston MA). As announced Saturday, the Solo/Duo winner is Lightnin’ Lee & the Upright Rooster (Spa City Blues Society—Hot Springs AR).It was certainly a night to remember on old Beale Street. With temperatures outside in the 30's, temperatures inside the New Daisy began heatin' up within minutes of the night's first performance. Put 1500 enthusiastic fans and nine top notch bands and you have the recipe for a tasty winter blues stew.The seven judges included Bruce Iglauer, president of Alligator Records, Bob Koester, founder of Delmark Records, Jay Sheffield, owner and talent buyer for Huey's in Memphis, David Bennett, T-Bone Erickson, Beanie Self, and recording artist Kenny Neal.Neal gave up four days to attend the event and told the Foundation, "These are my fans. Because they come out to see and support me when I play in their towns, it's important for me to be here and support them."Musical highlights of the performances included the super cool swing and jump blues of Boston's Matthew Stubbs Band, the riveting performance of "John The Revelator" by the Tennessee Hat Company from the Magic City Blues Society, some cool Little Feat-styled keyboard and vocals by Atlanta's Ken Rhyne band, the earthy singing and harmonica playing of Robin Rogers from Charlotte, the B-3 work of the Partick McLaughlin band from Marrietta, Ohio, the spontaneous preachin' of Rev. Slick Ballinger from the Howlin' Wolf Blues Society of West Point, Mississippi, and the decidely traditional bluesy guitar harmonica approach of the night's winner, Zac Harmon and the Mid-South Blues Revue from the Southern Cailfornia Blues Society.The real highlight was the enthusiastic member support every blues society brought to the New Daisy. Seeing dozens of society members rush to the dance floor when their home town bands performed and then stay to support the next band is what the blues is about.The Albert King Flying V guitar, presented to the best guitarist of the night, went to Slick Ballinger.One lucky fan, Boyd Chavis from Plymouth, Michigan, won the Gibson guitar that was autographed backstage at the 2003 W.C. Handy Awards that was raffled off this weekend.And after the competition was over, parts of all the bands turned up on stages in the Blues City Cafe and Pat O'Brien's and carried the music long into the morning hours. In fact, Kenny Neal was spotted on many of these after hours stages.The weekend also featured performances by Watermelon Slim and Joe Bonamassa and the awarding of the Keeping the Blues Alive Awards to 17 deserving recipients.Thanks to all the blues lovers and bands that came, saw and conquered and all the volunteers that make this event not only possible, but magical.The Foundation and all participants are grateful to sponsors King Biscuit Time, Budweiser, Legendary Rhythm and Blues Cruise (they are on the high seas bluesifyin' now), XM Satellite Radio, Tennessee Film and Music Commission, Memphis Convention and Visitors Bureau, Gibson Guitars, T. Joseph Clifton Gallery. We also want to acknowledge Big City Rhythm and Blues magazine, Blues Revue, Blues Wax, the Commercial Appeal and Memphis Flyer and all the societies that help spread the word about this "largest gathering of blues bands in the world."Now the focus switches to the 25th W.C. Handy Blues Awards on April 29 followed by Memphis in May's Beale Street Music Festival with three days of our favorite music in the Blues Tent.

Betsie Brown - The Blues Foundation
(Feb 4, 2004)
Sacramento Heritage FestivalA dedicated group of volunteers organized as the Sacramento Heritage Festival has been presenting special shows at the Horsemen's Club in Sacramento for a few years. This is a wonderful venue outside town with an indoor stage and comfortable listening room and outdoor lawn where the music is piped for those who wish to sit at tables under the awnings and eat or socialize. In connection with a series of shows, Blues Across America, the festival focused on Chicago Blues in October and Mississippi Delta Blues in November.At the Chicago Blues show in October, featured artists were Son Seals, Byther Smith and Magic Slim. Unfortunately, Magic Slim was hospitalized with pneumonia and unable to make the show and two acts were booked to replace him (Chris Cain and Phillip Walker who actually are not Chicago blues artists).The outstanding performance of the day was that of Byther Smith who has been a fixture in the Windy City since the early sixties playing in small clubs and recording critically acclaimed music. Smith's forte is songwriting and his lyrics reflect the struggles of life in Black America with intelligence and clarity. Smith has a congenial stage presence and on this day he had the audience captivated with the complexity of blues grooves on guitar. On the slow blues tune "Hold That Train Conductor," Smith's raw vocal style was enhanced by innovative guitar phrasing. Whether covering original tunes or standards, Smith's performance was permeated with the tough Chicago sound. Byther Smith was a delicious treat for the ears this day!Son Seals is a blues veteran of the Chicago scene and widely acclaimed as a trailblazer with his hard-hitting raw sound. In recent years, he has been battling diabetes and various other health problems. Sitting behind a large stand emblazoned with his name, Seals performed a heartfelt set.Contemporary blues artist Chris Cain gave a crowd-pleasing performance with his Jazz-inspired searing guitar style and rich vocals. Phillip Walker and his band closed out the show with a Texas influenced set which featured the wonderful Hollis Gilmore (photo at left) on tenor saxophone and Joe Campbell on trumpet along with the flamboyant bassist "Broadway" James Thomas. Soul singer Frankie Lee jammed with the Walker band to close out the show in a rollicking finale.At the November Mississippi Delta Blues show, the festival presented Lil' Dave Thompson (Greenville, MS), Zac Harmon & The MidSouth Blues Revue (Jackson, MS) and Michael Burks (Camden, AK). After a rousing opening by the wonderful group W.D. Gospel singers, Dave Thompson hit the stage with his band which included a local band including Henry Oden on bass and Michael Skinner on drums. Thompson covered standards displaying a gritty guitar style and engaging vocal delivery which testified to his Mississippi roots.Zac Harmon (photo at right) is enjoying a revitalized career thanks to his first-place win of the 20th annual International Blues Challenge sponsored by The Blues Foundation and held in Memphis in January. His show on this day affirmed all the hoopla that surrounds those dubbed as the hottest new act. Harmon paid tribute to his Mississippi roots and what has been described as the Farish Street sound (a legendary home location for many early blues artists). Harmon's soulful vocals and breathtaking showmanship were well displayed on the tune "Full Figured Woman." His flashy style guitar style belies the solid sound that he radiated on every tune. He was admirably backed by a fantastic band which included his daughter playing hard driving drums, D. J. on rhythm guitar and Jeff Stone on harmonica.The star of the evening was Michael Burks in a two and a half hour demonstration of dynamic guitar pyrotechnics and a silky rich vocal style reminiscent of Albert King. He possesses one of the best voices in blues and the conviction of his delivery is uncommon. Burks usually lacks a personable stage presence but this day, he related to the audience with an unusual fervor. On "Everyday I Have The Blues," he demonstrated a Jimi Hendrix inspired guitar style, bending and distorted notes. On "Make It Rain," Burks displayed riveting passion on this slow burner tune. Adding to the pleasure of the adoring fans, Burks prowled his way through the audience playing with the intensity of a man possessed by the blues!

Dorothy Hill - Blues & Boogie
(Dec 2, 2004)
The blues are alive and well. And Zac Harmon is proof positive!A funny thing happened on the way to trying to find a phone number I’d lost. Lewis Napper had given me permission to cite a piece of his work in my novel, “Heart Seizure” and I was going to call him about something. But I couldn’t find his number. I did a Google search for his wife’s name (she and I had gone to school together back in Jackson) and ended up on the message board for a guy named Zac Harmon who, it turns out, is a musician. Then I saw the names of several other old school mates on the board and I was intrigued. Zac’s name seemed familiar but I couldn’t place it. But based on comments left on the message board I thought he might have gone to St. Joe (class of ’75). Coincidentally, in the mail that day I received a copy of St. Joe’s alumni directory. Sure enough. Zac was a year ahead of me at St. Joe.So I looked at Zac’s performance calendar. Turned out he was playing at a club (Cozy’s) in Sherman Oaks. So we went. He and his band blew us away. In addition to a good set of standards (One Way Out; Got My Mojo Working; John the Revelator) he did a Hendrix set (Machine Gun, Them Changes, Little Wing) that was astounding. If Zac gets within driving distance of where you live, get on out and see him! You’ll be glad you did.His website is: www.zacharmon.com .Tell him I sent you

Bill Fitzhugh - Get The Blues
(Aug 2, 2005)
Mon, August 22, 2005They blew the roof offFest wrap like a cannonball expressBy MIKE ROSS, EDMONTON SUNWillie 'Big-Eyes' Smith was just one of many legends at the fest. (PRESTON BROWNSCHLAIGLE, Sun)Like a southbound train on a one-way trip to blues nirvana, the last day of the Edmonton Labatt Blues Festival started slow, hit a little congestion, commenced to cruise, kicked into high gear and ended with a great big bang.Or maybe that was CN Rail.Anyway, a train is a perfectly acceptable blues vehicle. Stops along the way included Chicago, Detroit City, Mississippi, New Orleans, Texas and even Portland, Oregon. Took the scenic route.The big bang came courtesy of the Delbert McClinton Band, which closed the seventh annual event in Hawrelak Park with a straight-ahead set that made up with in-yer-face volume for what it lacked in soul.Opening with a pair of standards - Take Me to the River and Shaky Ground - the headliner had no trouble packing the dance floor with 90 minutes of rocking, bluesy goodness. But there still seemed to be something missing. While McClinton's shoutin' pipes were in good order and the six-piece band hot, the arrangements were generally far too busy and far too obvious.There was little space, little subtlety, little dynamics. Every note was in exactly the right place. They basically pushed the pedal to the metal and went for it the whole time. It was easy to hear what the Blues Brothers heard in Delbert McClinton. The movie band was actually modelled after the real band - and that's what a good deal of this set felt like: Movie band blues.Earlier, the Steady Rollin' Bob Margolin Band came off like the best Saturday Commercial Hotel blues jam ever, a "Sidemen to the Stars" sort of thing. The band featured Willie "Big Eyes" Smith, former drummer for the great Muddy Waters - here in spirit, it was pointed out several times yesterday - along with the red-faced Garcia-ish shouter Margolin on vocals and bassist Mookie Brill, mentioned primarily for his excellent blues name.They started as a trio, with Willie on harmonica and vocals (and no drummer) before he took his place behind the kit. There were a few sparks of greatness, but these guys clearly needed help - the scheduled special guest, the Reverend Billy C. Wirtz, had to bow out because of a bout of kidney stones - and they got it. Delbert's amazing pianoman Kevin McKendree joined in and delivered a boogie woogie element, and the blues train started to roll nicely with the addition of members of Zac Harmon's band - including Zac Harmon.I might've preferred that Zac played longer. It was by far the best show of the day - no disrespect to earlier acts Craig Horton and the opening solo finger-picking guitar of Mary Flower, speaking of great blues names. Or folk, anyway.But while most of the acts yesterday merely played the blues, Harmon and his Mid-South Blues Revue slammed the blues to the ground and blew the roof off the joint, which was especially impressive as this venue was outdoors. The first tune made the hair on the back of my neck stand up, always a good sign. It dealt with reincarnation, in the blues way, of course: "Don't worry about that train, 'cause it's coming on back again." There are some comforting words that fit nicely into today's theme.Harmon, the closest the blues gets to a heavy-metal star, was intense, a force of nature, a monster. Don't cross this guy. He plugged his new album, The Blues According to Zacariah, and no one dared to argue with its intended message. He kept saying "let me tell ya something" - and boy did we listen. This was the real deal, up, down, sideways, whatever.And the Mississippi bluesman didn't just sing the blues, he provided some personal background, too. Tales of mean mistreaters, cheatin' hearts and even a rare form of Civil War viagra were a vivid and dramatic addition to the hard, full-contact blues the band pumped out. You could sense his excitement as Harmon related a tale of travelling to Chicago as a young boy. And how did he get there? By train, of course.
Mike Ross - Edmonton Sun (Aug 22, 2005)

Tuesday, November 25, 2008

Jaco Pastorius Park - Grand Opening & Concert



ENJOY A FREE “JAZZ ON THE GREEN” CONCERT
AT THE GRAND OPENING OF



JACO PASTORIUS PARK

DECEMBER 1st, 2009

Artists performing include: Toni Bishop, Ira Sullivan, Bobby Thomas, Othello Molineaux, and Randy Bernsen.

The City of Oakland Park Florida will take another important step in its downtown redevelopment at 4:30 p.m. on Monday, December 1st when City officials and other dignitaries cut the ribbon for the grand opening of Jaco Pastorius Park at 4000 North Dixie Highway (Between Oakland Park Blvd and Commercial Blvd.)

The ceremony will be followed by a free “Jazz on the Green” concert featuring several artists who were closely associated with the new park’s legendary namesake Jaco Pastorius.

“We selected December 1st as this was Jaco’s birthday,” says Mayor Layne Dallett Walls. “And we are excited to feature performances from musicians who had personal connections to Jaco, as well as the jazz band from Northeast High School which Jaco attended.”

Pastorius, who grew up near Oakland Park City Hall, showcased what would soon become extraordinary musical talents at Northeast High School. More than 20 years after his untimely death, he is still considered by many in the music industry as the world’s greatest bass guitarist. During his short yet brilliant career Jaco also recorded albums with other jazz legends including, Pat Metheny, Herbie Hancock, Joni Mitchell and the super-group Weather Report.

According to Parks and Leisure Services Director Jenna LaFleur, the 6 p.m. jazz concert will feature a “who’s who” of South Florida jazz. Songstress Toni Bishop, Othello Molineaux, Ira Sullivan, Bobby Thomas, and Randy Bernsen are among the artists scheduled to perform.

“We are pleased to present this free concert for our residents and anyone else who would like to come and see why we refer to Oakland Park as a ‘hometown choice,’” said LaFleur, who encourages everyone to bring blankets or lawn chairs as the concert will take place on the park’s large grassy field.

For information on the grand opening of Jaco Pastorius Park or the free jazz concert, please call the city’s Parks and Leisure Services at 954-630-4500.

SUMMARY:
Jaco Pastorius Park: 4000 North Dixie Highway, Oakland Park, FL 33334, jacop.net 954-630-4500 4:30pm Dec 1: Grand Opening of Jaco Pastorius Park w/ FREE “Jazz on the Green” concert featuring Toni Bishop, Ira Sullivan, Bobby Thomas, Othello Molineaux, Randy Bernsen and other luminaries associated with Jaco.

JAM after concert at ALLIGATOR ALLEY: 1321 E Commercial Blvd, Oakland Park, FL 33334, alligatoralleyflorida.com (954) 771-2220. Directions: North 1 mile on Dixie, right onto Commercial Blvd., u-turn at .2 miles at Chevron Station, right turn into strip mall.

Distribution by:
Hot House Florida
www.HotHouseFlorida.com


HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO THREE MAJOR PLAYERS:

Willie "The Lion" Smith
William Henry Joseph Bonaparte Bertholoff Smith (23 November 1893 – 18 April 1973), aka "The Lion", was an American jazz pianist and one of the masters of the stride style. Smith was born as in Goshen, New York. In his memoir he reports that his father, Frank Bertholoff, was Jewish, and his mother Ida Oliver, had "Spanish, Negro, and Mohawk Indian blood". "Frank Bertholoff was a light skinned playboy who loved his liquor, girls, and gambling." His mother threw Frank out of the house when "The Lion" was two years old. When his father died in 1901, his mother married John Smith, a master mechanic from Paterson, NJ. The surname Smith was added to that of the "The Lion" at age 3.

READ MORE AT:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Willie_%22The_Lion%22_Smith


Paul Desmond
Paul Desmond (November 25, 1924 - May 30, 1977), born Paul Emil Breitenfeld, was a jazz alto saxophonist and composer born in San Francisco, best known for the work he did in the Dave Brubeck Quartet and for penning that group's greatest hit, "Take Five". Known to have possessed an idiosyncratic wit, he was one of the most popular musicians to come out of the West Coast's "cool jazz" scene. He played a Selmer Super Balanced Action alto saxophone with an M. C. Gregory model 4A-18M mouthpiece — both circa 1951 — with Rico 3 ½ reeds.

In addition to his work with Brubeck he led several of his own groups and did significant collaborations with artists such as Gerry Mulligan, Jim Hall and Chet Baker. After years of chain smoking and general poor health, Desmond succumbed to lung cancer in 1977 following one last tour with Brubeck.

READ MORE AT:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paul_Desmond


Nat Adderley
Nathaniel Adderley (November 25, 1931 in Tampa, Florida – January 2, 2000 in Lakeland, Florida) was an American jazz cornet and trumpet player who played in the hard bop and soul jazz genres. He was the brother of saxophonist Julian "Cannonball" Adderley

READ MORE AT:http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cannonball_Adderley

Monday, November 24, 2008

Johnny Mack's Friday Night Blues Attack program on WDVX nothing but the blues

(HHF note: This show only streams live - no archives)

By Marlene Taylor features@knoxnews.com Sunday, November 23, 2008

To say that Johnny Mack's got the blues may be the understatement of the year.
Johnny Mack (a.k.a., John McCormack) hosts Knoxville's WDVX weekly program Johnny Mack's Friday Night Blues Attack!, and each program is a crash course in American-born blues music.

"I couldn't have asked for anybody else to do this show," says WDVX General Manager and Program Director Tony Lawson. "John has so much knowledge and is so passionate about the blues. He receives phone calls and e-mails from all over the world."

SEE FULL ARTICLE AT:
http://www.knoxnews.com/news/2008/nov/23/johnny-mack-program-nothing-blues/

Sunday, November 23, 2008

Jazz Cruising - Taking music appreciation to a higher level..

DAVE KOZ & FRIENDS 4th ANNUAL SMOOTH JAZZ CRUISE SETS SAIL FROM FT.LAUDERDALE

Posted by: editoron Thursday, November 20, 2008 - 10:11 PM
"AND I AM ON BOARD TO PARTY AT SEA"
By Babbie De Derian

For the past seven years, Jazz Cruises, llc has hosted jazz lovers and top jazz musicians on the only full-ship cruise charters in the world dedicated to live jazz music. They offer four different jazz cruises for every jazz music taste including: The Jazz Cruise; The Smooth Jazz Cruise, hosted by Wayman Tisdale; Dave Koz & Friends at Sea, and their newest edition to the family, the Playboy Jazz Cruise™.

I must admit I am not a jazz aficionado; seven nights and days of jazz as part of a captive audience of 1,950 jazz fans aboard Holland America's Westerdam was a little daunting until I met Dave Koz and his saxophone.I quickly became part of his family of fans who are here to spend a week of music packed performances, workshops and seminars with their idols. From the time I embark to the time I disembark, I find myself clappin and hootin just as loud and as often as the rest of the crowd.

We get off to a stompin start with a 4:45 sail away party by the Lido Pool. Dave Hooper, Rayford Griffin and Ramas Yslas jam to everyone's delight. Later that evening, Rick Braun and Richard Elliot join Dave when he hosts the "welcome Show".

The scheduling and rotating of performances to accommodate the early and late dinner seating, makes it possible to miss a concert one night but see it two days later.The second night at sea, Richard Elliot almost blows me into the water with his sensuous and faithful love affair with his saxophone. I later tell him that when he sank to his knees writhing with passion over every note that came out of his sax, I felt we were watching and listening to him make love on stage. Rick Braun joins him and together they send mellow haunting notes into the night in a duet with his trumpet and Richard Elliot's sax.

Lynne Fiddmont, who has sung back-up for an astonishing roster of singers that includes: Phil Collins, Stevie Wonder, Mariah Carey, Gloria Estafan, Whitney Houston and Seal, wows me with her sultry velvet voice and calming stage presence. Her voice, the music she writes and her story are waiting to be heard; it is time for her to spread her talents into a solo career.

One night on my way to one show, I pass the lounge where Denise Williams and Eric Benet are rehearsing a duet for her 11 o'clock show. I feel compelled to sit and listen as they prepare a soulful rendition of "Too Little Too Late". Legendary Ellis Hall, singing and playing the piano, is another moment in time that will be slow in fading. U Nam, "the guitarist with the memorable name and an acrobatic, soulful and sweet melodic touch" who calls his music "classy, jazzy, funky and Frenchy" performs hits from his CD: "Back From the 80's. Jeff Golub's dexterity on his electric guitar sends chills up and down my spine.

One of the highlights that touched me deeply was the Gospel Hour featuring Jonathan Butler & friends. When he sang "Falling in Love with Jesus" regardless of your religion, there wasn't a dry eye on the ship. On a lighter funnier note, Comedian Alonso Bodden was absolutely hilarious; I couldn't stop laughing as tears ran down my face.Not only did I get to appreciate these performers in concert, but I also had the opportunity to interact with them and their families, personally and informally . . . from chatting with Eric Benet on the beach in the Dominican Republic to hanging out with Ellis Hall and George Duke . . . to a wine tasting and brisket cooking demonstration with Dave, his sister Roberta, his brother-in-law Pat Wilson and his older brother Jeff , a jazz musician in his own right who inspired Dave to pursue a musical career.The KOZ Idol contest was a big hit; quite a few devoted fans who brought their own instruments, or a practiced vocal renditions, auditioned to perform with all the stars the last night at sea.

Everyday brought new surprises; when we docked in St. Thomas special guests Tower of Power come on board to play two shows at 7:15 and 9:30; the group is celebrating 40 years of playing together.Brian Simpson, an extraordinary musical director and talented recording artist, captured my heart with songs from his latest album, "Above the Clouds" and some of his biggest hits like "It's all Good". Candy Dulfer, another special guest, flew in from Holland; when this blond, beautiful performer put her sax to her lips, the power of her mastery was electrifying.I skipped two musical workshops: guitars in the round, featuring four unique artists each with a different sound and style; Jonathan Butler, Jeff Golub, Dwight Sills and U Nam who shared how they master their craft; and the sax academy with Candy Dulfer, Richard Elliot, Najee and Dave. Quite a few passengers brought their own saxophones on board to hone their techniques, and have the honor of jamming informally with Dave & his friends. I would have liked to meet the Jazz Historian who was on board to answer questions and share a little jazz history, but I went off on a shore excursion instead.

I chat with other passengers. After all, we're in this together. Some comments worth sharing: "What works about this is that people not only go on a physical, but also an emotional journey. Its an experience you won't find anywhere else" . . . " I'm from Philadelphia, Dave Koz left no stone unturned"… or the couple from Virginia "its our first jazz cruise, but it won't be our last, we've already signed on for the Dave Koz/Wayman Tisdale 2010 Cruise". Richard Elliot tells me"The difference between this and a show or a festival, where we do our gig and leave, here we get to play and hang out with our peers in front of our fans".

Our last day in paradise is spent on Harbor Cay, Holland America's private island, where we ride horses into the sea, swim and feast on a beach BBQ. When we return to the ship, the afternoon ends with a poolside jam session that brings fifteen artists together to tell their last melodious story; it is one that reverberates across the sea and into the hearts of old and new fans and friends. Dave, carried away by his own emotions, takes off his shoes and socks and walks into the swimming pool, playing his heart out as he wades through the water, bending down to play in the faces and ears of cheering seated fans. Dave Koz: the unconventional, the original, the eclectic and the amazing belts out what everyone has come on this cruise to hear. I look up to the sky and watch two pelicans flap their huge wings to the smooth sounds of Dave Koz and Friends.

It's equal parts party and equal parts music. As jamming goes, its great quality music, not just noise or stumbling on genius. It is a willing suspension of disbelief and a suspension of reality for the moment. I stand in awe; it is totally unplugged, uncensored and unrehearsed. "Even if you don't like smooth jazz, it's a great party".

Our last night at sea, Dave Koz & friends go over the edge. I am humbled, honored and inspired. It has indeed been a floating celebration, a series of musical adventures, the beginning of new friendships, a chance to feel and hear the passion of 40 artists playing with their peers, and the love that flows and connects us all.

Dave Koz: " you and your friends are living legends in the world of jazz . . . a title you have all worked hard, and traveled far, to earn".

The fun, excitement and camaraderie of my first jazz cruise far exceeds my expectations. There is no other cruise, jazz festival or music venue that offers such personal interaction with so many jazz stars; the venues are intimate and the dress code is casual, which made it easy to meet, mix and share the incredible wealth of unbridled and uncensored talent with other jazz lovers.

Nowhere else can you treat yourself to such a unique vacation; one that offers a bountiful array of delicious food, pampering in the ship's beautiful Greenhouse Spa and a wide selection of port tours and beach activities. Swimming is my passion and the Caribbean beckons on every island.

Once we dock, every artist is off to another challenge. I spent a lot of time chatting with gentle, caring George Duke who has become my new idol.. George is going back into the studio. He's working on an album with a female singer from Cameroon. He tells me: "you have to love people, you have to love to give, my fans are very important to me; if there were none of them, there would be no me. Art has to communicate; music is the ultimate wireless communicator. This is the "music boat". What I do is continue to make the music I am spiritually led to do; if it happens to be a hit, that's fine, but I do not make music to make a hit, my music is a little funkier". Richard Elliot is going to play a nightclub gig for a week; Dave Koz will be preparing for a December concert at the Nokia Theatre in New York City.

I am hoping to trade the January blahs and blizzards for another sensational week of world class jazz when the 8TH Annual COOL JAZZ CRUISE, hosted by Wayman Tisdale, sails out of Ft Lauderdale, January 17th to the 24th, 2009 with a line up of musicians that includes: Jonathan Butler, Jeff Golub, Marcus Miller, Everette Harp with special guest RUFUS, featuring Chaka Khan . . . or on the January 28th Inaugural Playboy Jazz Cruise, featuring Dianne Reeves, with special guest Herbie Hancock.

It's the best vacation bargain I know of! THE DAVE KOZ & FRIENDS SMOOTH JAZZ CRUISE, FEATURING WAYMAN TISDALE THAT WILL SET SAIL FROM FT. LAUDERDALE, JANUARY 17TH, to the 24th, 2010 ALSO PROMISES A PHENOMENAL LINE-UP. . . AND AN AMAZING SCHEDULE OF EVENTS AND PORT EXCURSIONS.

For more info and to book a cruise:www. jazzcruisesllc. com or USA & Canada 888-852-9987.International: 1-800-852-9987