Bo Diddley will be posthumously inducted into the
Florida Artists Hall of Fame on Wednesday March 24th. The award will be presented by Florida Governor Charles Crist during formal ceremonies to be held at the State Capitol in Tallahassee.
"Bo Diddley Is A ... Songwriter" is due for release Monday April 26th. More info from Ace Records at: http://www.acerecords.co.uk/
The 9th Annual Ponderosa Stomp will take place in New Orleans on September 24th & 25th. They will start announcing some of the line-up at the end of March.
Musicians and more turn out to honor Dale Hawkins in Shreveport Brenda Lee, Marty Stuart and Tanya Tucker.
All three spoke about the pros and cons of becoming successful at an early age. The event was held at Nashville's Country Music Hall of Fame, Saturday, February 20, 2010.
Jerry Lee Lewis headlines Revival Festival #3 in Austin, TX, May 7-8
Bear Family in Germany is reissuing Jerry Lee Lewis' "Live At The Star-Club" next month (2/2) on vinyl.
Charlie Daniels is recovering at his home in Tennessee from a mild stroke he suffered while snowmobiling in Colorado.
Tommy Riddle, 82, died Friday, Jan. 15, 2010 at his residence in Portsmouth, VA. He was a lifetime member of the Virginia Country Music Association and the recipient of the Pioneer Award. He was also a member of the Nansemond Indian Tribe.
Pedro Haley in concert! Bill Haley's youngest son in a classical guitar recital.
He has certainly developed into a masterful classical guitarist.
What is most interesting is that he started in music at a later age - 16! (1988)
Lonnie Viar, from WEVL in Memphis, has a great "Rockhouse" program that airs on WEVL on Friday nights from 7-9 pm or online at WEVL.ORG. He would like to get contact information regarding record/cd labels that feature modern Rockabilly artists, such as Golly Gee Records. If you can supply Lonnie with the right contact people of any label, you will help him increase his new artists' repertoires. It would be most appreciative. Contact Lonnie: memphismusic24@hotmail.com
This 1958 Chevrolet Impala, originally purchased by Buddy Holly, will be
up for bids at the 39th Annual Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction in
Scottsdale, AZ on January 18-24, 2010.
Richard Nader, the concert promoter behind the Rock and Roll Revival concerts of the late 60s-early 70s that brought the likes of Chuck Berry, Jerry Lee Lewis, Little Richard and Bill Haley back to mainstream popularity in America, has passed away after battling Parkinson's disease on December 1, 2009.
Bob Keane,
died of natural causes on Saturday, November 28, 2009. He was 87 years old.
Bob was the owner of the Hollywood-based Del-Fi
Records who released many hits during the late '50s and early
'60s, including those by Ritchie Valens, the Bobby Fuller Four,
Johnny Crawford and many more. A Bob Keane Interview
New 2009 Art Adams Band CD, "The Truth".
Check it out at Art's Website
Chris Scruggs seeks, learns and achieves with 'Anthem'.
Country singer MICKEY GILLEY (cousin of Jerry Lee Lee Lewis) was seriously injured in a fall in Branson, Mo. and underwent surgery.
The 73-year-old has since been flown to Houston, Texas for further treatment but, despite numerous reports, FOXNews.com can confirm Gilley is not paralyzed.
"He is absolutely not paralyzed," his rep said. "He did have a fall and surgery on his back, there was some bruising, and he was flown to Texas for physical therapy, but his doctors are satisfied with his recovery. He will then be flown home in a jet. They just want to make sure it won't tire him out too much."
Gilley's condition does remain serious, however.
"When you have surgery on your back its not a mild thing, it is serious, but he'll have physical therapy because of stiffness and they expect him to be fine," added the rep. "His doctors are satisfied with his recovery everyday. He is 73 so it will take time and therapy to get back to jumping around the stage which is what he likes to do."
Gilley was scheduled to perform in Branson, but the shows have been canceled pending his recovery. (posted Nov. 28, 2009)
BO DIDDLEY's 1956 recording of his song "Who Do You Love" is to be inducted into the GRAMMY Hall of Fame, the Recording Academy announced November 25th.
Twenty-five recordings, including songs by the Beach Boys, James Brown, The Doors, Judy Garland, Mahalia Jackson, Harry James & His Orchestra, Gene Kelly and Jelly Roll Morton, are among the 2009 inductees into the GRAMMY Hall of Fame.
Billy Swan's long awaited release of the album featuring Frank Sinatra covers "SUNatra" is announced. The project was recorded at Sun Studio, Memphis.
Event Poster: Nashville's 2009 Chuck Berry Birthday Tribute Show, Saturday, October 17th at the 5 Spot club.
This book can be ordered directly from author Billy Weir at www.gumballstudio.com "Billy is a great guy and a close friend of Martin Willis and Scotty Moore.
His book is self-produced and worth more than many "professional" books and it is stacked with public domain pictures. I think Billy's memories and personnal pictures need to have some exposure. Billy tells the story in an easy way, just like talking to him at home with a glass of bourbon or mint julep." - Dominique "Imperial" ANGLARES
The first "16" Magazine.
James Roy (Scotty Moore's webmaster) has posted a copy of the very first issue of the magazine and added it as a flip boof for your viewing pleasure.
Last member of Silhouettes has died at 69.
The Rev. John "Bootsie" Wilson, a former lead singer and last surviving member of the soul group The Silhouettes, has died. He was 69. Wilson died Sept. 21 at his home in Spartanburg, South Carolina, after batting cancer and a kidney ailment. The Philadelphia native joined The Silhouettes in 1961, after the original lead singer left the group, perhaps best known for the 1958 smash hit "Get a Job," which stayed at No. 1 for 13 consecutive weeks. It was among the first rhythm and blues songs to cross over and become No. 1 on the pop charts.
Whaley T. "Ric" Cartey R.I.P., age 72 (January 18, 1937-August 5, 2009).
Ric was last known to be living in Palm Harbor, Florida.
For Atlanta, Ga. born Whaley T. "Ric" Cartey, success as a songwriter came awfully young. He was a mere nineteen years old when he composed and published "Young Love" in 1956. The song's lyricist, Carole Joyner, was all of seventeen. Cartey recorded the song with his rock group in November of '56, without much success. By the end of the following year, 1957, however, no less than three hit singles would reach the Top 30; two of them
would reach number one.
Jerry Naylor Live Guest Appearance on "Life Today" International Announcement:
(Posted September 25, 2009) - You are invited to be a guest in the television studio audience for the personal appearance of Jerry Naylor, former lead singer of the Buddy Holly Crickets, and author, creator & producer of The Rockabilly Legends; A Tribute to My Friends Project on the "LIFE Today" international television show with James & Betty Robison. The LIFE Today television taping is Monday, September 28 at 6 p.m. Tickets are Free, But you must Reserve Your Seat. To Reserve Your Free Tickets & Seats, Call 817-354-3655 or email audience@loi.org. LIFE Today Studios are located at: 1801 West Euless Boulevard, Euless, Texas 76040
NOTE: Please go to www.lifetoday.org for LIFE Today's National and International Network Schedules.
United States, Canada, UK, Europe & Australia.
These Two Shows with Jerry Naylor, will broadcast the WEEK OF 30 NOVEMBER, 2009, IN ALL BROADCAST AREAS.
Hey BO DIDDLEY fans:
Two previously unreleased masters of mid-1970s BO DIDDLEY tracks are newly available on download/CD. The 23-track various artists compilation album "That Philly Sound Presents The West Coast Years" (That Philly Sound download/CD) includes the tracks "Kill My Body" and "Ride The Water", both recorded in Seattle, WA in late 1975. The cuts were both originally recorded for the RCA album "The 20th Anniversary of Rock & Roll" in 1976. Further info: http://thatphillysound.com/shopTPS113.html
News from Jim Driver Tue, 22 Sep 2009
CHUCK BERRY IN LONDON: Friday November 27th at Hammersmith Town Hall.
Yessir, legendary rock 'n' roll icon Chuck Berry will be playing a special Rock 'n' Roll show at Hammersmith Town Hall on Friday November 27th, ably supported by the RHYTHM ACES and rockin' DJs. The venue is a delightful old style concert hall, with just 900 seats. Tickets are priced at £59.00. Buy them from www.londonrocknroll.com with no booking fee (£1 per order processing charge). They're sure to go fast, so get yours now.
LITTLE RICHARD:
The word from Little Richard' is that he's gigging in the USA but has yet to have his hip-replacement operation, which means he cannot fly. Another operation (I'm losing count now) is scheduled over the next few weeks, which means he might be ready to travel and perform in February. So fingers crossed...
If it doesn't happen this time, I will give up on him, cancel the gig entirely and forget the whole thing! More news as and when I have it.
Nashville's Country Music Hall downtown may double in size.
Sept. 22, 2009 - The "dream" of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is to double its size, Mayor Karl Dean announced Monday. Dean said an expanded Hall of Fame could tie into the proposed downtown convention center and a 1,000-room convention center hotel.
Blue Suede Shoes Collection [BOX SET] - Elvis Presley.
Comment: "The 2 mammoth 30CD box sets released by RCA ('The Collection' aka 'The Red Suede Collection', and 'The Blue Suede Shoes Collection') have been harshly criticized by some Elvis fans as unnecessary and just another in a very long line of "cashing in" projects by his record label. And while that is probably true - repackaging old material for a quick profit is something that has never been beneath RCA (or the Colonel, or Elvis, for that matter) - let's not throw out the baby with the bathwater. First of all, RCA should get a little credit for the many worthy Elvis projects and box sets released in the past few years. Sure, they were money makers but most of them were put together in a first class manner - unlike much of the stuff released during Elvis's lifetime." -
longstemmedlily2@aol.com
Finland's legendary Goofin' Records is 25 years old. Join them over the
next month as they celebrate a quarter century of sauna-hot Scandinavian
Scorchers with four shows dedicated to the label. Check them out at
www.goofinrecords.com and
www.myspace.com/goofinrecords
Colonel Robert Morris' Benefit Page.
After the Colonel had his heart attack last May he is having a hard time keeping up with his meds and living expenses due to the high cost of his medical treatment.
Caylan Hascall has been an angel and created the Colonel Robert Morris Benefit Page.
Not only can you find out how to donate to this worthy cause, but there will be an online auction soon. Drop by and show your support to this living legend."
Thanks, The Silver Dollar Music Family
Don Woody is coming for two days only to play some your favourite songs for you! Who doesn't know his "Barkin' Up The Wrong Tree", "Make Like a Rock'n'Roll", "Bird Dog" or "Morse Code"? He is also bringing along some of his promotional photos, which you can buy there and give him to sign them for you!
Plus other rockabilly bands will warm you up and play the finest rock'n'roll you like so much! The place is quit small (but certainly the best rock'n'roll club in Holland!), so hurry up with booking tickets if you are coming! Otherwise it can be too late!
Performers: DON WOODY (US) with one and only show in Europe, Lost Hound (NL), Little Neal and Blue Flames (GER), RJ (NL), Tri-Tones (EST). Book your tickets at booking@rockabillybash.com - For more info check
www.RockabillyBash.com
Country Music Hall of Fame to Open Exhibit on Colonel Parker September 25, 2009. Mysterious and shrewd, Colonel Tom Parker revolutionized the business of promotion and management while guiding the careers of Eddy Arnold, Elvis Presley, and others. Marking the hundredth birth anniversary of the late music industry legend, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum will pay tribute to Parker in a spotlight exhibit featuring personal photos, correspondence, documents, apparel, a scrapbook, and other artifacts from throughout his controversial career.
Elvis Commemorative 75th Birthday Train. Celebrate Elvis's 75th birthday anniversary with the ultimate collector tribute: The King of Rock 'n' Roll Express, a real working HO-scale electric train set with locomotive and cars that light up. This exciting, collector-quality train comes complete with a special 75th Anniversary Commemorative Car that marks this milestone event in 2010 with bold Elvis graphics and genuine Elvis style! For more information on this and other exciting Elvis collectibles,
visit collectiblestoday.com.
From MACK ALLEN SMITH: (September 2009) "I have been cancer free since finishing chemo treatments in March, 2001. Thank you to everyone who lifted me up in prayer. The 1959 Sun recordings have been found and are how in my possession. Look for their release in the Netherlands on Fat Possum Records soon." Mack Allen Smith, 814 West Claiborne Ave., Greenwood, MS 38930
CHRIS BARBER interviewed by Giorgio Gomelsky.
Oral History interview by Giorgio Gomelsky of Chris Barber, seminal figure in the chronicle of UK jazz, skiffle and blues from 1948 to now. Part 1 (44:55) Part 2 (30:17) Part 3 (44:30)
"King Of The Queen City", a new 240-page book, will be released
Thursday, Sept. 10, 2009. Written by Jon Hartley Fox, it is a comprehensive history
of King Records.
Imelda May brings rockabilly to Chicago for her first US tour.
Hey BO DIDDLEY fans,
BO DIDDLEY's original July 1965 recording of his track "Let Me Pass" is now available to purchase as an MP3 download album from the Bo Diddley iTunes Store at http://itunes.com/bodiddley and at other major on-line retail outlets.
Ellie Greenwich, who wrote classic pop songs such as "Chapel of Love," "River Deep, Mountain High" and "Be My Baby" with Phil Spector, has died, according to her niece. She was 68. Greenwich died of a heart attack Wednesday, August 19th at St. Luke's Roosevelt Hospital, New York City where she had been admitted a few days earlier for treatment of pneumonia, according to her niece, Jessica Weiner.
Robert Gordon. Here's a review of the Umeå concert on July 10, 2009 from Västerbottens Folkblad in Sweden. Heard some pretty sad things about
recent shows, weak performances, low attendances (as you can see in the photo), poor reviews. Robert Gordon really seems hellbent on ruining his own career. Arjan - deelen@elvis.dk -
See a review in pdf format
Check out the newly updated Lee Rocker page at
MySpace and also the new Lee Rocker artist page at
Facebook. Spread the word!
FROM MARSHALL LYTLE: Here is something that makes me very proud. My old doublebass (That I played on "Rock Around the Clock" and other Haley hits). It is on Display at The World's Largest, Rard Rock Cafe, in Universal, City Walk, Orlando, Florida. They had me come over and Sign it in February '09. This photo was taken recently by a dear friend Phillis Broadhead from Decatur, Alabama, when she and her husband made a special trip to The Hard Rock Cafe just to see and photograph, that little bit of Rock & Roll History. This picture will have a place of honor in my new book, soon to be released called Still "Rockin Around The Clock".
I think by August 1st you should be able to get copies through Amazon.com. I will send out the release date as soon as I have it. I LOVE YOU ALL, Marshall. marshall-tommy@suddenlink.net (Posted July 11, 2009)
Carl Perkins and Friends - Blue Suede Shoes: A Rockabilly Session [VHS] (1985) The appearances of two ex-Beatles, including the late George Harrison, are among the principal attractions in this hour-long 1985 TV show, which spotlights one of the prime movers behind the rock-and-country blend known as rockabilly. Carl Perkins, who died in 1998, was the composer of "Blue Suede Shoes" and other classics, as well as a highly influential guitar player. Here he's joined by a host of luminaries, including Eric Clapton, musical director Dave Edmunds, Rosanne Cash, and members of the Stray Cats, in addition to Harrison and Ringo Starr, who perform the Perkins tunes ("Matchbox" and "Everybody's Trying to Be My Baby") that the Beatles recorded lo, these many decades ago. But star power notwithstanding, it's Perkins's show all the way. Not only can the man still play, but he's clearly basking in all the attention--as is Harrison, whose rare live performances should be treasured all the more now that he's gone. --Sam Graham
WILDEST CATS IN TOWN 2010 HEADLINERS.
BOOK EARLY AS IT ALWAYS GETS SOLD OUT.
PAKEFIELD, LOWESTOFT, UK
www.tennesseeclub.net/index.htm(to be updated soon).
FRIDAY 2nd JULY - MONDAY 5th JULY 2010
MARTY WILDE, SONNY BURGESS, BOBBY CRAFFORD & KERN KENNEDY,
ROCKY & PAT BURNETTE, BOPPIN' STEVE, CRAZY CAVAN, ERVIN TRAVIS,
METROTONES, SANDY FORD'S FLYIN' SAUCERS, LONG BLACK JACKETS, LENNEROCKERS,
VERNON & THE GI's, FURIOUS, HOT ROCKIN', SKYROCKERS, RHYTHM ACES, RAT PACK,
JIVE ROMEROS, KINGCATS, RED HOT ROCKERS, DANNY & THE SENIORS. MORE BANDS TO BE ADDED
It has been reported that Chuck Foreman has died.
Chuck Foreman and Eddie Cochran met in 1952 and began recording together on
Chuck's own recorder in the summer of 1953. They never played again together
(as far as we know) but Chuck had a big influence on Eddie. (Posted July 2, 2009)
Listen here.
Subject: Movie; Through The Eye.
(06/05/2009) Bertie Higgins, recording artist, film producer, & president of CAYO LARGO PRODUCTIONS, in Burbank, CA, has announced that he has signed Marshall Lytle of Bill Haley's Original Comets, to do a featured role in his new film production entitled "Through The Eye" to be filmed in Tarpon Springs, FL. this Fall. The story deals with drugs being smuggled into the Gulf coast of Florida from Colombia, South America during the mid 1970's. ALSO: Marshall's book, "Still Rockin Around The Clock" is ready to go to press.
Drummer Dewey Martin Dies.
(Feb. 09) Canadian-born Dewey Martin, one of the founding members of the country-rock band Buffalo Springfield and drummer for many classic country singers died apparently of natural causes over the weekend. (He'd been ill for some time.) He was 68.
Early in his career he played for Patsy Cline, Carl Perkins, The Everly Brothers, Charlie Rich, Faron Young, Roy Orbison, the Dillards, and others. He was considered by many --- at least in rock music circles --- to be one of the "great" drummers.
LUMBERJACK BOB BEASLEY passed away today the 21st of May 2009. He went peacefully after being ill with Throat Cancer. He was larger than life and I will miss my Uncles laughter. He died at ST. Peters hospital in Olympia Washington.
Melinda Lorene Adams - millie.adams@gmail.com
Rock the Flamin' Cowboy. flamincowboys@gmail.com
- FREE original studio quality Rockabilly to download at http://flamincowboys.googlepages.com
Check it out!!
Leading R&B drummer Earl Palmer, best known
for his New Orleans recording sessions with the likes of Fats Domino
and Little Richard, died on Friday, Sept. 19th at his home in Los Angeles at age
84, his family said. Palmer, who died after a lengthy illness, played on hundreds of hits
during a career that ran from the 1940s through the 1970s and earned
him an induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
The following shows can now be heard each week on Rockabilly Radio:
The Bop2B Show presented by Dave Brighton (UK)
The Rockabilly DJ Show presented by Bill Smoker (UK)
The WildKat Mike Show presented by Mike George (UK)
The Preacher Rocks! Show presented by The Preacher (UK)
The DJ Spy Show presented by DJ Spy (Germany)
Rhythm Blast presented by Dave Brighton (UK)
The Rock & Roll Show presented by Don Freeman (US)
Please check
http://www.rockabillyradio.net for
broadcast times.
CHARLIE WALKER DIES
9/13/08 - Longtime Grand Ole Opry member and famed disc jockey Charlie Walker, whose
shuffling, twinkling "Pick Me Up On Your Way Down" remains a country
music standard a half-century after its recording, died Friday in
Hendersonville. Mr. Walker was 81, and had recently been diagnosed
with colon cancer.
In 1958, Mr. Walker decided to record "Pick Me Up On Your Way Down,"
from the pen of an aspiring songwriter named Harlan Howard who was a
forklift driver at a California printing factory. The song became Mr.
Walker's signature hit and it was Howard's first commercial writing
success. (Howard went on to write more than 100 Top 10 country hits
and to become a Country Music Hall of Famer.)
(UK) - BOOK EARLY for next year's Americana Festival at Newark from July 9 to 12,
and you can get
tickets for Saturday or Sunday at just £25 each, 16 and 17 year olds £10. 15s and under
go free.
The Americana Festival is the biggest music festival in the area, with live music on two
large outdoor stages and three indoor venues, with more than 40 artists from the USA, UK,
Australia and Europe with a mix of country music, rock 'n roll and rockabilly.
There are jive and dance classes, thousands of American vehicles dating from the early
1900s, with hundreds of trade stands and amusements. On site weekend camping is available.
Amongst the artists expected to appear next year are - Rodney Crowell, James Intveld, Levi
Dexter, Danni Leigh, Peter Donegan and the Lonnie Donegan Band, Matchbox, the Jets and the
Hicksville Bombers.
Full details on the
Americana Website.
ROBERT GORDON and CHRIS SPEDDING
An amusing newsitem from
Danish television about Robert Gordon and Chris Spedding
recording a new back-to-the-basics rock 'n' roll album in that country. The newscrew
caught them right in the middle of some serious technical problems. Nevertheless, the
results are amazing, and both men agree that this album may well be their best album in
years. "The recording is just coming out fantastically", Gordon says. Robert and Chris
selected some great rock 'n' roll songs for this album, associated with artists like Eddie
Cochran, Gene Vincent, Johnny Kidd & The Pirates, Ral Donner and Little Richard. "I think
some of it is pretty good", Spedding adds with typical British understatement. Info:
www.robertgordon.dk.
SPECIAL DAY HONORING JANIS MARTIN
The induction of Janis Martin, "The Rockabilly Queen," in to the Danville, VA Museum of Fine
Arts & History's Hall of Fame. 4 p.m. Sunday, July 20, 2008 at the museum.
UPDATE ON GLEN GLENN
July 13, 2008 - "I spoke to Glen today, and he's doing well.
He played the
Hootenanny in southern
California on July 5th, and on July 7th he went in for surgery on his left kidney.
The doctor said a surgery of this type could last as long as four hours, but it
went well and only lasted two and a half hours. Although we won't know for
sure what was wrong until the pathology report comes back in a few days,
the doctor said that it looked like Glen had cancer in the kidney. However,
it looks like it was caught at a fairly early stage so that it may not have
spread and that Glen probably won't need chemotherapy or radiation.
Right now he's recuperating at home and is up and walking around.
He'll have his stitches out next Wednesday and then will follow up with
his doctor the following Wednesday. On July 30th, he'll go to a kidney specialist
to make sure that his right kidney is functioning well enough. If not, Glen might
have to have dialysis later on.
For now, Glen says that he appreciates everyone's good wishes. By the way,
Wednesday, July 16th, is also his wife Mary's birthday. Please continue to
keep them both in your thoughts and prayers."
Dianne Duran - rhofgal@yahoo.com
Unsung: CHIPS MOMAN is one of the key figures in the history of Memphis music.
So why hasn't he been given his due?
LORRIE COLLINS / RICKY NELSON
"Fans of the Collins Kids might want to take note of a new DVD release in
North America (Region 1). "The Adventures of Ozzie & Harriet: Best of Ricky
and Dave" is a 4-disc set that was released last week by Shout Factory, and
the set focuses on some of the major episodes in which Ricky performed. Fans
of Lorrie and Larry Collins will also recall that Lorrie also guest-starred
on a couple of episodes in 1958, which led to her becoming Ricky's real-life
girlfriend.
One of those episodes is included in the set: "The Picture in Rick's
Notebook", in which she actually plays a dual role as twin sisters. One of
them just happens to own a guitar with the name "LORRIE COLLINS" on the neck
and performs "Just Because" in duet with Rick. Not bad, though somewhat more
subdued than the way the Collins Kids usually performed it. I'm actually
surprised that Lorrie didn't make more TV and film appearances and I think
she makes a better impression in her 5 minutes on screen than Tuesday Weld
does in her guest-starring gig on Disc 2! Then again, according to the
latest issue of "Paranoia" magazine (a real publication - check your
newsstands), Weld was busy being High Priestess of the Illuminati at the
time so maybe she wasn't concentrating ... LOL!
This seems to be the only Lorrie episode in the set, however the set does
include an episode called "Who is Betty?" which aired about a month later --
and sure enough (not to be outdone), Larry Collins has a small role (if
you'll pardon the expression)! Cheers!"
Alex F-H - alexfh@shaw.ca
ROBERT GORDON: NEW ALBUM, LANDMARK PERFORMANCES
Robert Gordon is a busy man these days. Following the success of the recent Elvis album,
he will be back in the studio in July for a back-to-the-basics, tough rock 'n' roll
record, in the spirit of his early RCA albums. His musical partner and close friend Chris
Spedding will be playing on the album, as well as Detroit session- drummer Todd Glass and
renowned Helsinki slapbass player Lasse Sirkko.
Gordon will be using the same band, which he usually refers to as his "A Team", for
two special concerts in Germany; at the FZW in Dortmund on July 11th and at the
Kulturfabrik in Kassel in July 12th. "I've always enjoyed performing in Germany", he
says "I used to play there often. The last time I played there was in 2002. That was in
Berlin. I look forward to performing in Dortmund and in Kassel since I haven't been in
that part of the country since the early 90s".
They will also be appearing at the Americana Festival in Newark (U.K.) on July 13th.
"I am really looking forward to playing in the U.K. this time around", Robert says.
"Ilove performing in front of large audiences. 'Huge' would be a better way to describe
the audience expected at this 'Americana' Festival. At least 60,000 I believe. See you
there!".
Record labels are invited to contact management for more information about the new album, at
deelen@elvis.dk or through their website at www.robertgordon.dk This is also how you
can contact for booking info.
ANOTHER GREEN BAY FEST?
"Marc Mencher and Phil Doran currently have no plans to hold any more Rockin' '50s Fests
in Green Bay. I'm sure you agree that this would be a big loss to the rockabilly
community. There is a petition circulating to save the Fest. Mr. Mencher has said that
if the petition accumulates a few thousand signatures, they may revive the event. The
petition link is:
www.petitiononline.com/rockin50/petition.html".
Adrian Mazar, RHOF member - ADRIANMAZAR@comcast.net
ED. NOTE: Jerry Lee Lewis, Linda Gail Lewis & Wanda Jackson Live at the
Forum, London - Tuesday 28 October 2008 -
JERRY LEE LEWIS & THE KILLER BAND
+ LINDA GAIL LEWIS
with Darrel Higham and the Enforcers
+ very special guest (flying in from the US for this one show) WANDA JACKSON
with Wes McGhee & The London Party-Timers Bobby Fuller Story ... Keepin' the "Holly Sound" Alive.
Music Review: Reverend (Norton Heat) Organdrum - Hi Fi Stereo
MISSISSIPPI CELBRATES ITS GRAMMY LEGACY
with a Star-Studded Gala hosted by Governor Barbour.
The event, set for the evening of Thursday, May 29th at the Jackson, MS Marriott's Windsor
Ballroom, is a follow-up to Mississippi's salute last year to the GRAMMY 50th Celebration.
The evening's program relates to the contributions of Mississippians to America's musical
heritage and GRAMMY recognition thereof on multiple levels. Participating artists include
country music songwriting legend Paul Overstreet; R&B/Pop star Brandy; Gospel music greats
The Williams Brothers, joined by guitar icon James Burton; the incomparable Mavis Staples;
blues guitar slinger Eddie Cotton; and a trio of Swedish divas: Beatrice, Anorah and
Hannah Holgersson. The event will be hosted by actress Joey Lauren Adams, with a ballet
interlude by Kathy Thibodeaux. The
Williams Brothers who will be joined by Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Rockabilly Hall of Fame
inductee James Burton, the guitar great who toured and recorded with Presley as part of
his TCB Band.
Established in 1957, The Recording Academy is an organization of musicians, producers,
engineers and recording professionals that is dedicated to improving the cultural
condition and quality of life for music and its makers. Internationally known for the
GRAMMY Awards - the preeminent peer-recognized award for musical excellence and the most
credible brand in music - The Recording Academy is responsible for groundbreaking
professional development, cultural enrichment, advocacy, education and human services
programs. In its 50th year, The Academy continues to focus on its mission of recognizing
musical excellence, advocating for the well-being of music makers and ensuring music
remains an indelible part of our culture. For more information about The Academy, please
visit www.grammy.com.
JERRY WALLACE R.I.P.
Jerry Wallace Jr. and he said that his Dad has passed away on 5/5/08 from congestive heart
failure. Considered a pop act during the late '50s with a pair of huge hits, Jerry Wallace
successfully migrated to the country field during the '60s and '70s. Wallace began
recording in 1951 and burst onto the pop charts in 1958 on the Challenge label with "How
the Time Flies" and the even bigger "Primrose Lane" a year later. His focus became more
country-oriented with "Shutters and Boards" and "In the Misty Moonlight" in 1963-64, and
he made a full-fledged switch in 1965 after switching to the Mercury label. A move to
Liberty in 1968 didn't pay off, but in 1972, soon after he began recording for Decca, "If
You Leave Me Tonight I'll Cry" topped the country charts (as did the LP
Get to You). During the
next year, "Do You Know What It's Like to Be Lonesome" and "Don't Give Up on Me" both
reached the Top Five, but Wallac e only managed one more Top Ten, 1974's "My Wife's House"
(for MCA). He charted continually until the end of the decade, though, while recording for
MGM, 4 Star, BMA, and Door Knob.
- Howard Judy Thomason
EDDY ARNOLD, Arnold, country music's "Tennessee Plowboy" whose
rendition of "Make the World Go Away" was an international hit in the 1960s, died on
Thursday at age 89 in Nashville after a lengthy illness.
Rising from a poverty-stricken childhood in Henderson, Tennessee, Arnold connected with
the Pee Wee King Band as a singer and went on to a career in which he was named to the
Country Music Hall of Fame and received the County Music Association's first entertainer
of the year award.
He won many other awards as he moved from pure country into pop-oriented arrangements that
attracted a wider audience. In addition to "Make the World Go Away" he scored 16 other
consecutive hits in the 1960s. His concerts sold out in New York's Carnegie Hall and he
performed in Hollywood's Coconut Grove and top clubs in Las Vegas.
Arnold starred on the Grand Ole Opry in 1943, signed with RCA the following year but did
not have a hit until 1946 with "That's How Much I Love You."
Coming under the management of Col. Tom Parker, Elvis Presley's manager, Arnold quickly
scored a string of hits and graduated from radio to television.
Among others, his hit singles include "Cattle Call," "Just Call Me Lonesome," "After
Loving You," "I Want to Go With You" and "Tennessee Stud."
Arnold's wife, Sally, died earlier this year. Music Review: Ronnie Hawkins - Mojo Man / Arkansas Rockpile
BILL BURK,
publisher of Elvis World magazine passed away. He had been a staple in the Elvis
community since his reporter days for the Memphis Press Scimitar in the '50s. His books
and research about Elvis had been used and quoted by many other subsequent publications
like Peter Guralnicks 2 part biographies in addition to his contributions to Scotty Moore's
website. (posted April 25, 2008).
MY TRIP IN THE USA."
Dominique Anglares reports on his visit to USA April, 2008 (that included Viva Las Vegas #11).
He met "so many wonderful persons that everybody had to be mentioned. Many of my friends now beg me to write a book
... it seems I have started." - Dominique Anglares - anglares.dominique@wanadoo.fr
Floyd M. Ramsey, 82, passed away April 16, 2008 at his home in Phoenix. He was
born in Phoenix on March 22, 1926, to Clay and Virgie Ramsey. Floyd served in the Army
Air Corps from 1943-45 as a radio repairman. Upon his discharge he joined his father's
business, Ramsey's Radio Repair, on the corner of Seventh Street and Weldon Ave. The
two built a small recording studio next to the repair shop and a barber shop. The
building later expanded to include television sales and repair and the Valley's first
self-serve record outlet, Recordland.
The small studio area grew in the mid 1950s to become Audio Recorders of Arizona, where
the worldwide hits "The Fool" (56) and "Rebel Rouser" (58) were created. By 1963, the
company was successful enough to invest in a large, state-of-the-art recording
studio at 3830 N. Seventh Street. Recording music, tape duplication and
advertising clients continued to grow the company. The the early 70's Floyd became
a Sony video equipment distributor and the business name changed to Audio Video Recorders
of Arizona.
Floyd's musical clients over the years included stars Duane Eddy, Wayne Newton, Waylon
Jennings, Sanford Clark, Skip & Flip, Donna Fargo, Elton John, Marty Robbins, Phil
Spector and hundreds more, many of whom first released records on Floyd's own Liberty
Bell, MCI, Rev and Ramco record labels. In 1991, Floyd and Mary sold their successful
business and enjoyed their remaining days together traveling far and wide as well as
spending lots of time with family and friends in their second home in Prescott.
Floyd was a kind, generous and caring man. He loved his family and friends and was
respected and admired by all who knew him For his contribution to Arizona popular
culture, he was inducted into The Arizona Music and Entertainment Hall Of Fame in 2005.
He is survived by his loving wife and partner of 64 years Mary Faye, son Tim, daughter
Dorenda (Misencik) both of Phoenix, four grandchildren, and five great grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be sent to Hospice Of The Valley,
1510 East Flower Street, Phoenix, AZ. (602) 530-6900.
NEW CHARLIE GRACIE CD WITH SPECIAL GUESTS:
Graham Nash, Al Kooper, Peter Noone and many more ... in the works for LANARK MUSIC.
CHARLIE returns to the studio with producer QUENTIN JONES next month to continue the
first U.S. cd-recordings in 8-years! Many of the artists inspired by Philly's
First Rocker will contribute their talents: AL KOOPER (founder of Blood, Sweat
and Tears and Bob Dylan's organist), GRAHAM NASH (of the Hollies and Crosby, Stills & Nash),
PETER NOONE (British Invasion Pop/Rocker) and MORE.
SCOTTY and DJ were consulted and video taped sometime last year talking about some of the
songs they recorded with Elvis and along with instructors teach subscribers to this new
site how to play them. The service will likely be of interest to musicicans. Its kind
of neat because you can't imagine the number of requests Scotty has had for stuff like
this. http://scottymoore.net/ivideo.html Ace Cafe, London: MAY MUSIC
Thu 1st - 8pm - 11pm - Mod n' Mini Night with DJ LITTLE DIANE - Entry Free
Sat 3rd - 8pm - 11pm - RUBBERNECKIN' Record Hop with DJ Bill Guntrip - Entry Free
Sun 4th - 9pm - 2am - SLIM JIM PHANTOM TRIO (From USA) + DJ Bill Guntrip - Entry - £15.
Sorry No Under 18s
Wed 7th - 8pm - 11pm - Hot Rod Night Executioners Spring Riot with THE
HUMDINGERS + DJ Little Carl - Entry Free
Fri 16th - 8pm -11pm - Rockers n' Classic Bike Night with DJ BIG BEAT KRIS - Entry Free -
Sorry No Under 18s
Sun 25th - 9pm -2am - London Debut of PAUL PATERSON & His Rockin' Band
(playing all his dancefloor fillers including his No.1 Blues Bopper "I Got
It Hard" + DJ Little Carl - Entry ¬ £10. Sorry No Under 18s
Mon 26th - Noon - Margate Seafront (The Margate Meltdown) with CARLOS &
THE BANDIDOS with special guest on guitar DARREL HIGHAM + THE
UNKNOWNS + DJ Bill Guntrip - Free
Sat 31st - 8pm - 11pm - Rockin' Record Hop with DJ TRACY DICK - Entry Free
Please check website for regular updates: www.ace-cafe-london.com
Ace Cafe London
Tel: ++44 (0)20 8961 1000
Fax: ++44 (0)20 8965 0161
Ace Corner
North Circular Road
Stonebridge
London
NW10 7UD Solute from Russia! GAGARIN BROTHERS
The Gagarin Brothers refer to their style as "A Neo Retro Alliance",
a description fitting for their talent of taking popular melodies
from Soviet and American music of the 1920's through 1960's and
giving them new life in very unexpected rockabily, gipsy jazz, folk
and zydeco arrangements.
During its formation, the group saw many 'artists' come and go before
it reached the stable collective.Today, however, these professional
musicians have found in each other similar tastes in music, common
ideas, and vital homogenous orientation where this music is concerned,
traits which give Gagarin Brothers the deep personal connection that
comes across so clearly on stage.
The Gagarin Brothers are:
Sergei Kalinin - drums (formerly of Rattlesnakes http://www.myspace.com/therattlesnakesru,
Red Elvises http://www.myspace.com/redelvises) --
Alexei Andreev - guitar
(formerly of Lampa Ladino http://www.lampaladino.ru) --
Sergei Zaslavskii - accordion
(formerly of Amigos de Corazon http://www.amigosband.narod.ru,
Melnitsa http://www.melnitsa.net) --
Dmitry "D-Jazz" Ilyin - upright bass
(formerly of Meantraitors http://www.myspace.com/themeantraitorsfanpage,
Rattlesnakes http://www.myspace.com/therattlesnakesru) --
Alexei Cekatskii - vocals
(formerly of Jazz Dance Orchestra http://www.jazzdanceorchestra.ru ,
Oleg Lundstrem's Jazz Orchestra http://www.lundstrem-jazz.ru/ ,
Ygor Butman Big Band http://www.igorbutman.com/)
Performing in clubs and concert halls, Gagarin Brothers bring
esthetic and emotional satisfaction to audiences throughout Russia
and abroad with their excellent music and original stage costumes.
Russian Rock and Roll Evolution!!
Alexander "Alex" Golubev
e-mail: kap-club@mail.ru
+7 916 153 5322
Moscow, Russland
HIGH-TOME SHUTS DOORS, SELLS
CATALOGUE TO SHOUT! FACTORY
Monday, March 31, 2008 ÀÜ HighTone Records, the one-time home of Dave Alvin, Robert Cray
and Dale Watson, is shutting its doors, an apparent victim of the economic downturn hitting
the music business. HighTone is selling its catalogue to Shout! Factory Records, a California-
based label that is home to Solomon Burke. That deal happened Friday.
No one could be reached at HighTone. The phone number at the Oakland-based label was
disconnected.
HighTone was the first label for bluesman Cray. The label expanded into country and roots
music, releasing artists including Joe Ely, Jimmie Dale Gilmore and Tom Russell. The label cut
back on releases in recent years, opting for repacking and reissuing material from its catalog.
"We got the whole label," said Shout! Factory spokesperson Lauren Gaffney Monday. "We're
still gong through all the titles and deciding what we're going to do. Some of the titles are no
longer in print. Some are in print."
As for future plans by Shout Factory for the HighTone music, "there will be some best of
titles, and they'll start hitting later this year," said Gaffney. ROBERT GORDON: 61 CANDLES
Posted March 29, 2008 - As Robert Gordon celebrates his 61st birthday today,
the thought of retirement is still far from his mind: "Man, are you kidding? I'm
feeling great and my voice is better than ever. Besides, performing is my whole life -
I really can't imagine ever quitting this business’" he says. Robert will be doing
several shows in Norway and in Finland together with the Marco DiMaggio band, and he's very
excited about that: "I always have a lot of fun on the road with those guys.
The bassplayer, Matteo, is a riot - he really kills me every time with his Bee Gees
impersonation!".
Robert also has some shows coming up in May and July together with Chris
Spedding, and in October with the Redhots from Finland. For booking info or
birthday greetings just write to
robert@robertgordon.dk. But right now,
our birthday boy has a busy day ahead of him: "My grandchildren are in town for
the weekend. I'll really need their help to blow out that many candles! (Photo: Frankie Ford with Robert Gordon)
BILL TURNER is still smokin' after strumming with the best of them.
New Gene Summer's CD
Posted March 16, 2008 - Gene has just informed us that he has a brand new CD titled
"Reminisce Cafe", just released on Seduction Records #110. This is Gene's
50th Anniversary Album released in 2008 on the exact date of his first 45 release,
"School Of Rock 'n Roll", which was issued
on February 1, 1958! "Reminisce Cafe" contains (15) NEWLY RECORDED tracks in the rockin'
50s style. This is Gene's first U.S. studio album since 1981! Tracks include: "Reminisce
Cafe", "She Bops A Lot", "Just Together", "Rockin' Fever", "Crazy Cat Corner", "I Won't
Take Any Less", "(It's Love Baby) Twenty Four Hours A Day", "Do A Little Roll",
"Heartbreak City Limits", "Love Me Tender", "Gonna Drive 'Em Up A Wall", "Be-Bop City",
"Hot Rod Baby", "I'm Flyin' In" and Little Lu Ann (a James McClung composition)!
The liner notes were written by legendary DJ Ron Chapman and the album was produced by
3-time Grammy winner Phil York. CD has a 6-page, full color, fold-out with some never
before published, personal pics from the early years to the present!
(Cover Photo: Gene & Dea Summers, Dallas, 1962) [UPC663525221727] CD in stock.
Immediate shipping, order from:
http://siliconmusic.us/.
Autographed copies are available upon request.
MAKE YER RESERVATIONS NOW! ;-)
The Elvis Presley Memorial Dinner will be held at the Peabody Hotel on Thursday, August
14, 2008 in the grand ballroom.
Our guest list includes the famous and fabulous Jordanaires, Terry Mike Jeffrey, Kevin
Mills, Vince Anthony, Gary Coleman, Will Debley , Gary Britt and others. As an added
bonus we have Kevin Adams doing his great impersonations and he is really something and if
you've never seen him perform he will have you in stitches. We have another bonus for you
- we will allow three names to be drawn - on stage - for any amateur present who might
like to come on stage and sing - bring your own CD!
For tickets ($75.00 each) please make checks payable to EPMD and mail to Marian Cocke @
784 Pecan Gardens Circle East, Memphis, TN 38122 and please enclose a SASE for tickets to
be returned to you.
Attire is nice casual - all tables are reserved and for those of you who have specific
folks that you would like to sit with - you must send your checks together in order for
your request to be honored. Children under 10 will be served a childs plate at no cost
to parents but must know the count for proper table seating.
March, 2008 -- Our sister web site: That Bakersfield Sound Website
is celebrating it's 10th Anniversary BILL WOODS
... from Bakersfield.
Bill was the source of inspiration
to start this website back in 1998.
Bill is known as the "Grandaddy of the Bakersfield Sound.
He passed away April 30, 2000.
RIP dear friend.
CRY-BABY READIES TO ROCK BROADWAY.
The latest John Waters film to make the leap from the silver screen to the Broadway stage,
Cry Baby, prepares to rock Broadway audiences at the Marquis Theatre beginning March 15th.
AN OPEN E-MAIL FROM BOBBY CROWN TO A FRIEND Posted March 4, 2008
Laurent, Just got back from Finland. Had a great time. I went on stage about
1:00 o'clock Sunday morning. Was supposed to play about an hour. I wound up playing almost
one and a half hours. They kept wanting more. I did 4 encores and they were still wanting more.
I was running out of songs and I finally just told them that was all and thanked them and J.J.
and the boys played an instrumental and I walked off stage.
You know that Wildfirewillie is really a hard act to follow. They put on such a great show.
But I am very fortunate to have them playing for me. Personally, and I know you do to, feel
that they are the best rockabilly band anywhere. Once again, I have to thank you for talking
me into going to Europe and helping getting me get connected with Wildfirewillie and The Ramblers.
I could have done this show in September, but the band wasn't available so I put it off until they were.
I just won't play a rockabilly gig without them. I don't have to.
I had a guitar player named Buddy Webb that played with me for about seventeen years until about 1990.
Recently Buddy told me that he enjoyed making me look good and he did. I feel the same about Wildfirewilly.
Jan knows my songs better than I do and they are there to catch me if I falter.
They make me feel young again even tho I can't hop up on stage like I use to. I have to use the steps.
Anyway, after the show, I started up to my room to change clothes and there was one of the other bands
having a jam session in the hall way with a couple of guitars, a small amp, a snare drum and a harmonica player.
There was quite a few people listening and they wanted me to sing a couple of songs, so I did.
I changed clothes, came back down. I had a couple of beers and something like jambalaya with rice and stuff.
I sat with Alf, the bass player, who is a real character and some more people.
They closed up the restaraunt and I headed back to my room because I had to get up at 8:00 o'clock
to get ready to catch a plane in Helsinki. Guess what, The jam was still gong on, and Jan was singing.
They wanted me to sing some more. I sang everything I thought they might follow me on including Big Blue Diamonds.
I am going to forward this mail to some other people that might be interested including Gene Summers.
I have told him several times thru E-mail how much I like Big Blue Diamonds.
Anyway I told them that I had to get some sleep and got back to my room about 4:30 A.M.
I had a wake up call at 8:00. Had a shower. ate some Breakfast. I think I had some kind of fish for part
of my Breakfast and I am not sure if it was cooked or not. It was kind of rolled up. A guy told me it was very Nordic.
It didn't taste bad. I never was a picky eater. That is something that my Mother taught me.
Anyway the manager of the hotel took me to the airport . I think he was the only one that wasn't hungover.
Someone told me that the beer was about seven dollars each and they drank a lot of it. The manager said it was an
exceptional crowd and he was very happy. He was a nice man as were all of the people there.
Big Beat magazine did a nice article on me. I can't read it 'but it has several pictures that had never
been published before. It was a race to get the pictures to them and our Gandson, Jordan Adams, helped me
E-mail them because he is pretty sharp on computers and a lot of electronic stuff. Now that I have told
everything I know,I guess I will go. I wish you could have been there Laurent, You would have fit right in.
Thanx again, Bobby Crown
NOEL HAGGARD backstage at the Fox Theatre in Bakersfield Feb 13, 2008.
Noel was the opening act for his father. He's a fine singer in the family tradition.
VISITING BO DIDDLEY, Bo Diddley recovering from his stroke.
Photos taken 1-28-08.
LITTLE RICHARD IN NASHVILLE
It was a standing ovation for rock 'n' roll pioneer Little Richard - and he didn't even perform.
He was seated at the rear of the Ryman Auditorium Sunday (Feb. 17, 2008) night attending a concert by
1960s Motown stalwarts The Temptations and the Four Tops.
Introduced by Otis Williams, an original member of The Temptations, the
75-year-old Little Richard got the extended ovation from the sold-out
crowd of about 2,400.
"We've done some shows together," Williams recalled. Richard, a Macon, Ga., native,
now lives in Tennessee and recently performed with Jerry Lee Lewis and John Fogerty on the Grammy Awards.
WORTH A CLICK: WARREN SMITH Article by "Dominique ANGLARES" - anglares.dominique@wanadoo.fr
ROCKABILLY RAVE USA
Coming to Las Vegas OCTOBER 2nd-6th 2008
Posted, Feb. 15, 2008 - Coming soon is the ROCKABILLY RAVE USA. This will be held every
October in The Orleans Hotel in Las Vegas. It is organised by JERRY
CHATABOX (of The Rockabilly Rave) and Tom Ingram (of Viva Las
Vegas). This group is for you to discuss the Rockabilly Rave USA, to
connect with other attendees and to post information and news
about this event.
The official event website is www.rockabillyraveusa.com and will be
up soon.
http://groups.myspace.com/rockabillyraveusa.
RE: "Crazy" Joe
"We are pleased to announce that the brand-new issue of
Guitar Player magazine features a three-page article on our very own
nerd-a-billy pal, "Crazy" Joe Tritschler! In the article, appearing
in the March 2008 issue and featuring two rather large pictures, Joe
elaborates on such subjects as recording techniques, amplifier
construction, string gauges, and Rigs of Death! Go get yourself a
copy at your local newsstand, or visit international retailers such as
Barnes & Noble!" Sincerely yours, Ed Sinnicky, Press Manager.
For more information, please visit www.madriveroutlaws.com!
Posted Feb. 3, 2008 - Click to Enlarge Visit the Rockabilly Hall of Fame's BUCK OWENS page Ricky Nelson - Greatest Love Songs CD
WORTH A CLICK: JOE BROWN, one of Britain's first pop stars, has just kicked off his 50th-anniversary tour.
He talks to Helen Brown about being supported by the Beatles, the day he upset Johnny Cash,
and how he was almost in the car crash that killed Eddie Cochran.
FYI ... MUSIC HISTORY ARTICLE:
Here's a interesting, no-holds-barred article on the way the music industry
has worked over the past forty years, written by Simon Napier-Bell, ex-manager of
the Yardbirds:
http://observer.guardian.co.uk/omm/story/0,,2241544,00.html The More You Cry (The Matchbox Blues Blues, Two Parts)
Daydream Believer Songwriter Dies
John Stewart, who wrote the Monkees hit Daydream Believer in 1967 and was a member of folk group The Kingston Trio,
has died.
The 68-year-old suffered a massive stroke or brain aneurysm in San Diego on Friday, according to The Kingston Trio's
website.
Stewart joined the group, one of the most successful and influential groups in popular folk, in 1961.
He wrote Daydream Believer, a global hit for The Monkees the same year he left The Kingston Trio.
He went on to record more than 45 solo albums and his biggest solo success came with a US top five single, Gold,
in 1979.
LEE HARRELL R.I.P.
Lee Harrell, wife of Jimmy Harrell (Alton & Jimmy) passed away Friday, 28
December 2007 after a courageous nine month battle with cancer.
Folsom Prison Johnny Cash Tribute Concert Scrapped
FOLSOM, CA - A concert marking the 40th anniversary of Johnny Cash's famous concert
at Folsom State Prison has been scrapped, with the prison and the promoter blaming
each other for the cancellation.
The tribute concert, scheduled for Sunday Jan 13th, was to have been staged in
the same prison cafeteria where Cash performed before inmates on Jan. 13, 1968.
That breakthrough performance became a popular live album.
R.I.P. - Rockabilly Hall of Fame Inductee #299, Wally Willette, 1929-2008.
Wallace D. Willette, age 78, passed away on Sunday, January 6, 2008. Wally was born in Bangor, Maine on July 2, 1929.
He was a member of The First Pentecostal Church of Pensacola, Florida.
Survivors include his wife of 58 years, Etta Willette, his daughters, Linda Lowe and Marleah
(Tom) Klingler; his sons, Terry (Debbie) Willette, and Timothy Willette; his grandchildren, Candi,
Terry Jr., Hope, Destiney, Summer, Little Tim, Shiloh and Lily; his seven great-grandchildren;
his sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Jack and Rachel Daughrey, his sister, Carolyn Brebue,
his brothers, Gene of N.C., Stanley and Mike Brebue of N.C.
Book: THINGS DO GO WRONG
tells the story of the 1960 rock 'n' roll tour starring Gene Vincent and Eddie Cochran.
GROUCHO PLAYED THE GUITAR?
Although poor, Minnie Marx required all her boys to learn to play musical instruments.
Groucho played guitar and was a remarkable singer. Chico mastered the piano and
Harpo played everything, but loved the harp.
If Groucho Marx didn't exactly invent rock and roll, he nonetheless embodied its irreverent, rebellious spirit in every medium he came to conquer. He and his brothers would make only 13
feature films, yet in 2000, five of them were honored by the American Film Institute as among the top 100 comedies of all time. Such was Groucho's influence across the generations that he
became an unlikely youth icon in his mid-80s, mobbed like a rock star at rare personal
appearances, and inspiring thousands to pack what's now Los Angeles' Gibson Amphitheater
to view a slate of Marx Brothers films made decades before most in the audience were even born.
See full size flyer
"BOP STREET"!
As of Monday January 7th, listen every Monday to "BOP STREET,"
Big Joe's 50's Rock and Roll Show from 8.30 pm to 21.30 pm on
www.couriradio.com
There's a great story about Gene Maltais in the book:
"The Sounds of Our Town, The History of Boston Rock and Roll." The book can be purchased on the Barnes and Noble Book
Store Web-site for 24.95.
Visit this link.
BROPHY DALE FEATURED IN GUITAR PLAYER MAGAZINE
Brophy (co-lead guitarist for Lee Rocker's band) is featured in the January issue of Guitar Player Magazine.
Brophy is humbled, proud and excited to be the great magazine that he's been reading for years.
His contact: brophydale@charter.net
This weekend on LatiNation TV we celebrate all things Rockabilly!
Rockabilly revelers will get their kicks this weekend (12/15-10/16) as LatiNation
goes on set with vintage and modern pin-up photographer Jorge M. Vargas, then twists and
shouts to the sounds of legendary rockabilly musician, Big Sandy. Next, LatiNation gives
viewers a retro wardrobe and home makeover with the designs & decor of My Baby Jo and
Spitfire Interiors. Viewers are invited to discover Los Angeles, Calif.'s oldest underground
music scene with the documentary, "Rebel Beat: the Story of L.A. Rockabilly," and lastly
a dose of psychobilly sickness with Mexican punk mainstay, Calavera!
This special episode of LatiNation also features interviews and footage from the top
heavyweights of the Rockabilly and Psychobilly scenes, including L.A.'s Black Cat
Entertainment and Austin, Texas's "Rockabilly Magazine," and many more! For a short
teaser of the upcoming episode, check it out here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qOnIUco8ZWA
RONNIE SANDO
a member of the Rockabilly Hall of Fame®, has finalized contract negotiations and has signed to
open shows for "The Branson Country Music Showcase" at the God and Country Theatre, located on
historic Highway 76, close to Dolly Parton's Dixie Stampede and Dick Clark's American Bandstand
Theatre, March 22-28, 2008 in beautiful Branson, MO.
The Showcase is being billed as the "Entertainment Event of the Year" where country and bluegrass
contestants can show their talents on the same stage as the legends perform.
The winner will receive a Nashville recording contract, among other prizes.
It's a show where every contestant will be a winner by receiving some type of prize.
"Turn your talent into a career" -
bransoncountrymusicshowcase.com".
Toll free 1-866-592-7469
Memphis Mike Suffers Heart Attack
On Friday, 9 November 2007, rockabilly guitarist, vocalist, songwriter, Memphis Mike suffered
a massive heart attack. After a brief stay in hospital, Memphis Mike is now recuperating
at his home in Pittsburgh. All shows for the remainder of 2007 have been cancelled.
Memphis Mike, born Michael Metzger, is best known for his work with his bands
Memphis Mike & the Legendary Tremblers, The Rowdy Bovines and The Swingin'
Cadillacs as well as session work with the likes of Alan Leatherwood (US),
Christina Louise (Aus.) and many others.
Memphis Mike' s signature song, "Diamonds & Cadillacs" has been recorded
by numerous artists, including legendary SUN rockabilly, Hayden Thompson.
Memphis Mike has worked with the likes of Sleepy LaBeef, Hayden Thompson,
Billy Poore, LesLee "Bird" Anderson, Big Al Downing, and many more.
Those wishing to send Get Well cards, etc. may do so at this address:
Memphis Mike, c/o Rusted Records, P.O. Box 53, Pittsburgh, PA 15116
A remix of the Sun classic "Baby Lets Play House".
It sounds rather interesting without drastically altering the tempo:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QmTvYpH75sM Rockabilly Show Benefits Linden, TN Middle School
Sat., Nov. 10, 2007 - Among the performers who participated were Art Adams and his band and Mandy Marie
(pictured above). Also appearing on stage were: Leslee "Bird" Anderson, Billy Poore,
Willie Redden, Stacy Evans and Bob Timmers.
The Reverend Horton Heat's Jim Heath forms Reverend Organdrum
From Jim Heath, the man who brought us the perennial sell-out-show-playing,
psychobilly-genre-defining, world-famous Rev. Horton Heat, comes Reverend Organdrum. The
RHH side project features five-time Grammy Award-winning keyboardist Tim Alexander and
Texas local Todd Soesbe on drums to form this soon-to-be-legendary organ trio. Just think,
the chops of a vintage jazz organ trio and the attitude of Reverend Horton Heat at their
pomade-flinging best.
The group's upcoming release, Hi-Fi Stereo, covers the pantheon of hipness, dosing out
greasy soul, funk, blues, lounge, rockabilly and just about everything else that sounds
best dripping from a 45 rpm in the wee hours. Look for the album in stores on January 8th.
Rosanne Cash Has Surgery
November 9, 2007 - Singer-songwriter Rosanne Cash has canceled the four remaining dates on
her "Black Cadillac: In Concert" tour so she can undergo brain surgery.
Cash's upcoming recording session has also been postponed while she has
the operation at New York Presbyterian Hospital to treat a rare, but
benign condition.
The daughter of country music icon Johnny Cash is expected to make a
full recovery and will return to the studio to complete the recording of
her debut for Manhattan Records, the label said in a statement.
Cash also plans to resume her live performance schedule in the spring
and complete a new book to be published by Viking in early 2009.
Elvis is Forbes' Richest Dead Celebrity
Oct 31, 2007 - Elvis Presley is still the King. Presley, who earned an estimated $49
million in the past 12 months, has reclaimed the No. 1 spot on Forbes.com's list of
Top-Earning Dead Celebrities. He last topped the list in 2005.
John Lennon ranks second with earnings of $44 million, followed by Charles M. Schulz ($35
million), George Harrison ($22 million), Albert Einstein ($18 million), Andy Warhol ($15
million), Theodor Geisel (Dr. Seuss) ($13 million), Tupac Shakur ($9 million), Marilyn
Monroe ($7 million), Steve McQueen ($6 million), James Brown ($5 million), Bob Marley ($4
million) and James Dean ($3.5 million).
Presley died in 1977. His estate continues to generate millions from music royalties,
DVDs, licensing deals and tourism at Graceland, the rocker's mansion in Memphis, Tenn. Starfires' Publicity Photo
For information of these Pennsylvania Cats contact
John Hall
FATS DOMINO with MATT LUCAS
October 24, 2007 - "We're in New Orleans right now. Had such fun with Rick Coleman and
Fats Domino yesterday. First we had lunch with Rick who was delighted to let us know us
that he'd just been given the ASCAP award for 'Best Biography' for his book BLUE MONDAY
about Fats which is a great read if you haven't read it yet. After lunch we drove into
New Orleans to Fat's house and were invited into his bedroom by his charming daughter
Adonica. I've met and gotten to know many famous people through Matt but being
entertained in Fat's bedroom by Fats and Matt, with Fats in his PJs, was a real 'hoot'.
We spent the whole afternoon with Fats and his son and he didn't seem to want us to leave
... even asked us what we were doing tomorrow ... ha, ha. It was an experience we won't
forget. Fats and his daughter and son were so down to earth. He loves that 'Fat Man From
New Orleans'. Matt sang along with his CD while Fats played the piano." -Barbara
Lucas
BO DIDDLEY'S HOME TOWN TRIBUTES
October 24, 2007 - Bo Diddley is eagerly awaiting next week's tributes planned for him
in his home town of
McComb, MS. The City is hosting the first Camellia City Festival, Friday and Saturday
November 2nd and 3rd, and the event has been specially timed to coincide with the
unveiling in McComb of the Bo Diddley Blues Marker on the Mississippi Blues Trail.
The Festival will begin at 9.00am on Friday November 2nd, with a bus tour beginning at the
McComb Railroad Museum on Railroad Boulevard, then heading to the renovated State Theater,
the new Hampton Inn, the McComb Tiger Activity Complex, McComb's new Sports Park and then
on to view Bo Diddley's childhood home.
All are then invited to the unveiling ceremony for the Bo Diddley Blues Marker, taking
place from 12.30pm to 2.00pm, with the popular local blues and jazz guitarist/singer Jesse
Robinson performing a historical medley of songs. The City of McComb will present
Bo with a proclamation and City officials are asking the State Senate and House of
Representatives to introduce a similar measure.
Local artist Pat Legg has also donated an acrylic painting of Bo Diddley to the City and
prints of the portrait will be sold during the Festival.
The Festival also coincides with McComb High School's Homecoming. The Homecoming Parade
will be kicking off at 4.00pm, with Bo Diddley this year's Grand Marshal riding in a
convertible from Legacy Ford in McComb. The McComb High and Junior High bands will be
joined in the parade by the Hazlehurst High School and South Pike High School bands in
playing a selection of Bo Diddley's songs.
The McComb High School Homecoming Game in the evening will be followed by a free "Singing
The Blues" concert at the Railroad Depot Pavilion, beginning at 9.00pm.
The second day of the Festival begins at 10.00am Saturday November 3rd, on the grounds of
Southwest Mississippi Regional Medical Center.
Mississippi Blues Trail website: http://www.msbluestrail.org/blues_trail/
Johnny Cash Christmas Show From 1976 and 1977 - Found, Reissued
Lost since 1977, the famous and wildly popular Johnny Cash Christmas Specials from 1976 and 1977 were recently
found in the vaults of ABC Television in Hollywood. These Christmas Specials feature a personal, heart-warming
look at Christmas through the eyes of Johnny Cash, one of Country's Biggest Stars. In addition to an unbelievable
list of guest stars, Cash delves into the meaning of Christmas for himself and talks about the traditions
he enjoyed as a boy growing-up in rural Arkansas. These stories, coupled with the joyous Christmas Music,
and Carols make this a show one you'll watch over and over again.
Through a special arrangement with a Hollywood Studio, Country Music Greats is taking pre-orders for
these shows. The show will be available for shipment November 13, 2007. The Christmas Shows are
available individually (1976 DVD or 1977 DVD) or, as a 2 DVD set. Catalog Music Corporation, PO Box 159297,
Nashville, TN 37215. help@purecountrymusic.com - 1-800-591-2968
ROY HEAD and The (original) Traits were inducted into the Rockabilly Hall of
Fame® at 7:00 PM , Oct 20, 2007 at the LBJ Center's Main Ballroom at Texas State
University in San Marcos, TX. 512-392-2100. RHOF founder/curator Bob Timmers was
on hand to make the presentations.
The Rockabilly Hall of Fame, established more than a decade ago, presents early
rock 'n' roll history as well as information about the artists and personalities
who pioneered this uniquely American music genre. The Hall, which is headquartered
in a former recording studio some 30 miles west of Nashville, has honored performers
such as Gene Vincent, the Everly Brothers, Tom Parker and Elvis Presley, Buddy
Holly, Jerry Lee Lewis, Patsy Cline, Johnny Cash, Bill Haley and the Comets, and
many others.
A corresponding CD, "Golden Anniversary: Rockabilly Hall of Fame Album" is being issued.
See http://myspace.com/royheadandthetraitsfor more information on the band and show.
New York rockabilly fan Larry Shell co-wrote
FISHHEAD, the graphic novel along with Michael H. Price (Prowler,
Forgotten Horrors) which is illustrated by Mark Evan Walker is now being
serialized at ComicMiz.com! A new portion will be posted EVERY Monday
until the complete book is up.
Rockabilly Hot Rod Show at Las Vegas Motor Speedway
The fourth annual
Rockabilly Rod Reunion will be taking place at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway on Saturday,
October 6. The reunion will be an all day event and will feature live music, drag racing, pin-up
girl contest, and more.
Trophies will be awarded to pre-1965 custom cars in three contest brackets during the car show.
The event will happen alongside the Bugorama, which will start on Oct. 4.
Don't miss the 10th Screamin' Festival!
27th May - 2nd june 2008 - 7 nights ...
Festival: Thursday 29th to Sunday the 1st of June - 4 nights.
Where and line up (30 + BANDS) - coming soon!
We are working on a new website; in the meantime please visit:
http://www.myspace.com/screaminweekender -
Carlos @ El Toro - jumpblues@gmail.com
BOBBY CROWN, FORT WORTH'S ROCKABILLY CAT, BACK ON VINYL
Bobby Crown, an original Rockabilly cat who staged with the Big D Jamboree in 1959,
has a new single for 2007. Some vinyl records died long time ago,
so you'd better take note of this new waxing produced by Bobby Crown himself. Bobby's record
issued in 1959 on Felco records is a long time collector item that sold for over $400 each
when an original copy could be located.
Bobby, who played recently in Sweden and France, found a pressing plant and made a new
pressing of those legendary sides. 500 copies, with a neat picture sleeve, are offered
for sale to worldwide Rockabilly die hard fans. In a few weeks 200 copies were quickly gone
so it's last call for that single that will be soon as rare as the original release.
You can secure an autographed copy of "One Way Ticket" / "Your Conscience" directly from
Bobby at the follwing address:
Bcrown5@aol.com.
It's pure Rockabilly from Texas and, for sure Bobby's got, in 2007, ...
his return ticket! Dominique "Imperia" ANGLARES - houstonring@wanadoo.fr
2nd ANNUAL DOO WOP CONVENTION IN VEGAS
It is coming close and tickets are going fast -- The Cool Bobby B 2nd
Annual Doo Wop convention in Las Vegas. This November 15th and 16th.
Original Doo Wop bands, An amateur Doo Wop Contest, Vendors and Much
More. Please if you plan to attend to stop by the Rock-it Radio Booth and
say Hello!
For more information check out our webpage at:
http://www.rockitradio.net/doowopconvention.html
You can hear the Cool Bobby B Doo Wop Show as well 24 hours a day on
demand via Rock-it Radio Online -- Just look for his show and click to
the speaker at: http://www.palmsradio.com/rockittext.htm
WORTH A CLICK:
FATS DOMINO: Walkin', Talkin' and Hopin'
Slim Jim Phantom and others "The Make Climb for Cancer Research".
On October 13th, forty legendary musicians, mountaineers, artists, cancer survivors and
supporters will embark on the most momentous climb of their lives - "Everest Rocks" - a
fourteen-day trek up Mount Everest, culminating with the first-ever rock concert at Base
Camp. The climb was designed to bring awareness to and raise money for the Love Hope
Strength Foundation (LHSF), founded by two-time cancer survivor and rock icon, Mike Peters
of the UK band "The Alarm" and fellow cancer survivor James Chippendale, president of CSI
Entertainment, one of the country's largest entertainment and sports insurance brokers.
Joining Peters and Chippendale on the 18,000 foot climb will be musical legends Slim
Jim Phantom of the Stray Cats, Squeeze's Glenn Tilbrook, Nick Harper, The Fixx's Cy
Curnin and The Fixx's Jamie West-Oram. Following long, strenuous hikes each day, the
musicians will create acoustic recordings that will be fed directly to iTunes from the
mountain. Once reaching Base Camp on October 23, they will perform together - a Mount
Everest first - and will then hike four days down the mountain to play a finale concert in
Kathmandu on October 29. Each day, people all over the world will be able to watch and
listen to video, live recordings, photos and read a daily blog, and even send text
messages to the rockers via www.lovehopestrength.org
MAC CURTIS DVD
Emcee Music Ventures proudly presents this collaboration between the Texas rockabilly legend
MAC CURTIS and young rock 'n roll artist PHIL FRIENDLY. The disc features 21 songs
and a few bonus clips.
www.maccurtislivedvd.com.
Light Crust Doughboys NEA American Masterpieces Artists
The Texas Commission on the Arts has announced that The Light Crust Doughboys have been designated NEA American Masterpieces Touring Artists for fiscal year 2008. According to the Commission, The Light Crust Doughboys are one of 12 outstanding Texas artists from the current TCA Touring Artists and Companies Roster chosen for inclusion in the American Masterpieces program.
The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) has placed a priority on touring and presenting the best in the arts this year, and the Twelve Texas American Masterpieces artists and companies are centerpieces of this initiative. Says Doughboy member Art Greenhaw of Mesquite, Texas: "We're extremely honored by this designation since we're so committed to live performances by professional musicians in all regions of Texas, and we especially wish to thank Texas Senator Bob Deuell for his continued support of our touring in communities of every size, small and large, throughout the great State of Texas."
The Light Crust Doughboys are one of the world's top, historical western swing bands with inductions in many Halls of Fame. The Light Crust Doughboys have recently re-opened a historic showroom on the downtown Mesquite, Texas square to promote music and western arts including The Light Crust Doughboys Model guitars, bass, banjo and mandolin. For further information on this Grammy Award-Winning band, visit www.thelightcrustdoughboys.com -
contact Frank W. Greenhaw, (972) 285-5441.
BOB LUMAN in TEXAS MUSIC HALL of FAME
The 10th annual Texas Country Music Hall of Fame welcomed three new members to their galaxy of stars
this week in Carthage. Red Steagall, Bob Luman and Johnny Rodriguez were honored for their
contributions to Texas and country music.
Red Steagall, a native of Gainesville, who found stardom as a performer, songwriter and actor,
kicked off the entertainment for the standing room only crowd. Melissa Luman represented her dad,
rockabilly star Bob Luman, at the ceremony. Luman died at the age of 38 in 1975. Johnny Rodriguez,
who burst onto the music scene during the 1970's as the first Chicano artist, performed a number of
his hits including Lonely Women Make Good Lovers and Desparado. Rockabilly Hall of Fame volunteer staff member, JOHN HALL,
on stage with Los Straitjackets at one of the workshops at their Summer Camp.
John was one of 25 attendees.
Since they wore no masks, the band was asked to block their faces, and Steve,
who took the photo, got a little creative.
The folks who put on the event are Jake and Connie of 2Jakes Management.
WORTH A CLICK:
CARL BARAT as GENE VINCENT in the set of the movie TELESTAR",
currently being filmed in London and based on the life of legendary producer Joe Meek.
Charlie Gracie on stage at the Lincoln Center in NYC.
This summer the famed Lincoln Center has paid tribute to
"Americana Roots Music" and some of the artists that made it famous.
Over 5,000 attened the outdoor ampitheater to see the August show that featured:
The Dixie Hummingbirds, Roy Head, Dale Hawkins, Karry Johnson and The Comets and others.
Charlie was backed up by the Sleepy LaBeef band.
Photo: Larry Penny
WORTH A CLICK:
HERSHEY PARK AMPITHEATER.
Philly's Pioneer Rocker Charlie Gracie on August 5, 2007 before 1,800 rock 'n' roll fans tears into "Guitar Boogie"
at Jon Bowzer's Rock 'n' Roll Concert.
Brigitte Handley & The Dark Shadows - USA Tour! Sun 2nd September 2007 12pm - Summer Strummer Festival - Santa Monica, California.
Monster Energy Stage alongside the Rezurex, Duane Peters Fight Club, Zeke, Battalions
of Saints, Deadbolt and heaps more. Check the full line up:
http://www.myspace.com/thesummerstrummer Tues 4th September 2007 8pm Dante's - Portland, Oregon
The Rezurex,
Brigitte Handley & The Dark Shadows Wed 5th September 2007 8pm - El Corazon, Seattle, Washington
The Rezurex,
Brigitte Handley & The Dark Shadows Thurs 6th September 2007 8pm - Hell's Kitchen, Tacoma, Washington
The Rezurex,
Brigitte Handley & The Dark Shadows Fri 7th September 2007 8pm - Fritz's Bar Reno, Nevada.
The Rezurex,
Brigitte Handley & The Dark Shadows Sat 8th September 2007 8pm - Sawtooth Ridge Cafe Tahoe City, California.
The Rezurex,
Brigitte Handley & The Dark Shadows Sun 9th September 2007 8pm TBA, Bakersfield California.
The Rezurex,
Brigitte Handley & The Dark Shadows Wed 12th September 2007 8pm - Safari Sams, Hollywood, California.
Brigitte Handley & The Dark Shadows Sat 15th September 2007 8pm - Route 66 After Party -
http://www.myspace.com/route66afterparty -
Neon Kross, Brigitte Handley & The Dark Shadows
Fri 21st September 2007 8pm - Showcase Theatre **ALL AGES** , Corona, California
THE QUAKES,
Stellar Coprses (Santa Cruz),
Brigitte Handley & The Dark Shadows,
The Astounding Roy Gorbisons,
National Hotrods,
Glen or Glenda.
Doors Open at 7:00 p.m. Get There Early Limited Capacity $15.00 Presale;
$17.00 Day of Show! Get Your Tickets NOW before they're Gone! www.ShowcaseTheatre.com
Sat 22nd September 2007 8pm - The Key Club **ALL AGES** Hollywood, California
THE QUAKES,
Henchmen,
Brigitte Handley & The Dark Shadows,
Gamblers Mark,
The Howlers,
Those Rockin Bullets.
Get There Early Limited Capacity Reserve You Dinner Full Bar for 21+.
Best Club in LA Best Lights and Sound,
$17.00 Presale; $19.00 Day of Show! Get Your Tickets NOW before they're Gone! www.KeyClub.com
Sun 30th September 2007 8pm - The Blue Comet Bar and Grill - Glenside, Pennsylvania,
Brigitte Handley & The Dark Shadows
More Dates to be announced!
HANK WILLIAMS, JR. RETURNS TO ESPN'S MONDAY NIGHT
FOOTBALL WITH BRIAN SETZER AND NEW ALL-STAR BAND
Hank Jr. to Sing MNF Anthem for 19th Year; New Open Debuts Sept. 10 ...
The names of the NFL superstars who have performed on Monday Night Football the past two decades are
constantly changing, but one name has remained constant since 1989 Hank Williams, Jr. The
legendary singer has earned four Emmy awards (1991-1994) and national acclaim among fans for singing
the anthem that kicks off the NFL's weekly primetime showcase game. That legacy will continue for
the 19th year when Williams will perform the opening theme to ESPN's MNF this fall with a new
all-star band featuring singer/songwriter Brian Setzer and other popular artists.
Williams will again perform "All My Rowdy Friends Are Here on Monday Night" based on his hit song
"All My Rowdy Friends Are Coming Over Tonight." This year's version will offer a "boogie-woogie" and
big-band music flare with the addition of Setzer and 13 members of the horn section from the Brian
Setzer Orchestra. ESPN introduced the all-star band concept during its inaugural MNF season a year
ago, and this year's diverse collection of musicians is scheduled to feature new artists
representing rock 'n roll, pop, country and funk, including:
Guitarists Brian Setzer (Stray Cats/Brian Setzer Orchestra), Richie Sambora (Bon Jovi), country
music sensation Gretchen Wilson, and young phenom Drake Bell, the 21-year-old
actor/singer/songwriter from the popular Nickelodeon series Drake and Josh; Keyboardist John
Ondrasik (Five for Fighting); Funk bassist Bootsy Collins (Parliament Funkadelic); and Drummer Cindy
Blackman (drummer for Lenny Kravitz).
Sun blocks sale of vintage recordings by Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins.
Sun blocks sale of vintage recordings by Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins
August 16, 2007 - Master tapes were to be sold at auction this spring ...
Sun Entertainment Corp. of Nashville said today a federal judge has permanently blocked
the sale of master recordings by former Sun Records artists including Johnny Cash,
Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins.
Creative Sounds Inc. had planned to sell the tapes this spring through the
Chicago auction house Ocean Tomo as part of a larger auction of 30,000 master
recordings by artists from Frank Sinatra to Willie Nelson.
Sun sued to block the sale of the Sun masters, however, claiming ownership of
the recordings, which date to the 1950s.
Ocean Tomo pulled the recordings from the auction, and on July 23,
a federal judge in Chicago issued a permanent injunction preventing
Creative Sounds from selling the tapes, Sun said today. Ronnie Hayward, Art Adams & Steve "Mr. Happy" Kelemen.
Many miles, heat waves and beers later.
BOBBY CROWN REUNION PHOTOS.
Date: Friday, 3 Aug 2007. Courtesy: ramseykeith@sbcglobal.net MANDY MARIE & the Cool Hand Lukes, from Indianapolis, appeared
at the Douglas Corner in Nashville, Thursday, August 2nd. Mandy and the band
did a super charged set. The show's theme was built around the "Outlaws" and
many of Waylon Jenning's former band members showed up to back some of the
other fine talent featured that evening. ROC LaRUE recently made a guest appearance at a rockabilly show
in Jacksonville, FL. "He's still got it!". Brian Setzer with Detriot Rockabilly DJ Del Villarreal.
Photo taken backstage at the recent Stray Cats concert in the Motor City.
READER COMMENT, July 26, 2007: Colonel Robert & Irene Morris, goldenpen@bellsouth.net, Senatobia, MS. USA
We enjoyed hosting a get together at our home in Mississippi last Friday
July 20, 2007. Pasty Andersen who was a part of Elvis Presley Enterprise for twenty two
years and Bob Timmers the prez of the Rockabilly Hall Of Fame joined us in eating pizza,
singing songs and a photo session that was crazy man crazy!
We talked about Elvis and Rockabilly. And discussed how we could work together to bring
more awareness to both.
I sang a few songs I had written then Bob started picking and I got on my drums and a
party was happening.
We covered songs from the 50's through the 80's to the enjoyment of both Pasty and my wife
Irene.
The party ended with promises to do this again. And all agreeing we couldn't wait to see
each other at the Memphis Elvis Gospel Show on Aug. 12th of this year.
With lots of hugs and a handshake or two Pasty and Bob went back to their busy world.
WORTH A CLICK:
Hot 13th Annual Hootenanny Report MERLE HAGGARD DRIVE
Finally after many years the city of Bakersfield pays homage to Merle Haggard by
erecting a sign in his honor. Known as Merle Haggard Drive the road is two and a half
miles long connecting Hwy 99 to North Chester Avenue in Oildale which is the town
Merle grew up in.
FRED FOSTER, is the man who founded Monument Records and re-started Roy
Orbison's career. Fred appeared at a public interview at the Nashville Country
Music Hall of Fame on Saturday, July 21st. He was very informative and entertaining. Rockabilly Hall of Fame photos
Jerry Lee Lewis's Complication -
A Recognised Medical Condition!
We've just been received the following from Scottish Jerry Lee Lewis fanatic and friend
of the Killer himself, Graham Knight: "A doctor friend was looking up references to
"pain relief" in a Medical Dictionary when he noticed that there is a condition
that has been known as "Jerry Lee Lewis's Complication". It was first detailed in the
medical journal "Anaesthesia" in 1997."
It turns out that the doctor in question, Dr Notcutt is a Jerry Lee fan himself. Shaun Mather - July 2007.
TWO ELVIS DRUMMERS ... TOGETHER
Elvis had two incredible drummers: DJ Fontana met and worked with Elvis on the Louisiana
Hayride 1955. He performed on 460 RCA recordings and played drums and appeared in five
movies. Ronnie Tutt met Elvis in Las Vegas in 1969 and was selected as Elvis' drummer as part of
the TCB Band. He is still playing for Elvis today up on the big screen in "Elvis in
Concert".
Now imagine this! Elvis' two incredible drummers FOR THE FIRST TIME on stage performing
Elvis songs TOGETHER! Never before, never again!
It is well known among Elvis fans worldwide that since 1989 the Good Rockin' Tonite
concerts have consistently been the most entertaining, most nostalgic and the most fun
Elvis concerts in Memphis each year.
August 14th at the Peabody Hotel at 5:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. shows, it's up close and
personal with the TCB Band, DJ Fontana, the Jordanaires, Millie Kirkham, and Terry Mike
Jeffrey.
For information and ticket orders call 818 991-3892 or e-mail: elvisint@aol.com
Last Drifter, Bill Pinkney, Dead at 81 Bill Pinkney, the last survivor of the
original members of the musical group The Drifters, died Wednesday, July 4, 2007. He was
81. Pinkney was found dead at the Hilton Daytona Beach Oceanfront Resort,
Daytona Beach Police spokesman Jimmie Flynt said. The death was not
considered suspicious.
Bill recorded one single for Sun Records in 1958. "After The Hop" / "Sally's Got A Sister"
was released on Phillips International under the name Bill Pinky.
The Drifters, whose hits include "Under the Boardwalk," "Up on the Roof,"
and "Save the Last Dance For Me," still performed Wednesday night. An
announcement about Pinkney's death was made after the show.
Pinkney, born in Dalzell, S.C., wasn't with The Drifters when they recorded
their biggest hits. He left in the band in 1958 because of an argument over
cash. His distinctive bass voice can be heard on the group's version of the
holiday classic "White Christmas."
Even though he left the group, Pinkney didn't let go of The Drifters' name.
He fought for laws allowing performers or bands to claim an affiliation with
a classic group like The Drifters or The Coasters only if at least one
member recorded with the original group.
WORTH A CLICK:
A Candid Behind-the-Scenes Recollection!
The July issue of "The Lance Monthly" has been posted and the featured article is a very
candid recollection of the life and times of
The Cavaliers of "Last Kiss" fame, written entirely by founder and original
guitarist, Sid Holmes. Although the recall is quite controversial (it'll be presented in
two parts), it is an excellent, well-written read.
GENE SUMMERS
will be in France on August 17th-19th along with Doug Kershaw.
For details go
here and click on "Programme".
The Essential Waylon Jennings Releases July 24th
Co-produced by Waylon's youngest son, Shooter Jennings, this 42-song on two-CD collection
spans his career from 1964 to 1987. Included are a dozen #1 Country hits and another 14
that reached the Top 10. With the exception of the opening track ("Big Mamou" recorded at
JD's night club in Phoenix) and closing track ("Rose In Paradise" his final #1 single, on
MCA), the balance of the 40 songs celebrate Waylon's two decades on RCA Victor Records
one of the longest (and stormiest), most productive (and most combative), most gratifying
(and most often frustrating) and most talked-about partnerships in Country Music history.
With his extraordinary litany of signature cuts among them Gordon Lightfoot's "That's
What You Get (For Lovin' Me)" (learned from Ian & Sylvia Tyson); "Only Daddy That'll Walk
The Line"; Kristofferson and Shel Silverstein's "The Taker" and Kris' "Lovin' Her Was
Easier (Than Anything I'll Ever Do Again)"; Lee Clayton's "Ladies Love Outlaws"; Steve
Young's "Lonesome, On'ry And Mean" Willie's "Pretend I Never Happened"; Donnie Fritts and
Troy Seals' "We Had It All"; Billy Joe Shaver's "Honky Tonk Heroes"; Bob McDill's
"Amanda"; he and Willie's "Good Hearted Woman"; "Luckenbach, Texas" by Chips Moman and
Bobby Emmons; Ed and Patsy Bruce's "Mammas Don't Let Your Babies Grow Up To Be Cowboys"
(all three with guest vocals by Willie Nelson), Neil Young's "Are You Ready For The
Country"; Rodney Crowell's "I Ain't Living Long Like This"; and many others Waylon's
place in American music history is secured forever.
Adding a small sample of Waylon's own list of original compositions among them "That's
The Chance I'll Have To Take" (penned when Waylon's nom de plume was Jackson King); "You
Ask Me To" (co-written with Billy Joe Shaver); "This Time"; "Rainy Day Woman"; "Bob Wills
Is Still the King"; "Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way"; "Waymore's Blues"; "I've Always
Been Crazy"; "A Long Time Ago" (co-written with Shel Silverstein); "Don't You Think This
Outlaw Bit's Done Got Out Of Hand"; "Theme >From The Dukes Of Hazzard (Good Ol' Boys)";
and "Storms Never Last" (co-written with Jessi Colter) and THE ESSENTIAL WAYLON JENNINGS
earns its title.
Guitar maestro James Burton taken at the Gamla Club in Oslo, Norway on the
26th of May 2007.
James played for nearly two hours and not one time did he repeat himself.
He was backed by norwegian band The Beatnicks.
Photo is taken by Dag Bogeberg (rockabilly-editor in norwegian Backstage magazine).
http://www.musikkavisen-backstage.com/ - dag@tgn.no
London England's Terry Lee & The Rockaboogie Band
"An International Piano Pumpin' Sensation" ...
Terry Lee & The Rockaboogie Band is a high energy, first class show
band built around the lightning fast piano pumpin', rockaboogie
playing of London England's Terry Lee.
Popular with all age groups, Terry Lee & The Rockaboogie Band is right
at home in a small venue, private party, corporate event, casino or a
large outdoor festival.
Terry Lee and the Rockaboogie Band will take you back to the golden
era of Rock-N-Roll when stars like Elvis, Johnny Cash and Jerry Lee
Lewis were making history in Memphis TN. with a new sound that was
sweeping the nation, a sound filled with raw energy and driving rhythm!
www.rockingterrylee.com.
THE "LOST" JOHNNY CASH PERFORMANCE
Johnny Cash fans will soon have access to a new recording of the Man in Black,
the 16th since his September 2003 death.
"The Great Lost Performance," a 1990 Cash concert featuring duets with June Carter
Cash and with singer Lucy Clark, will hit stores July from Universal Music.
The 18-song banter-filled live album was recorded July 27, 1990, at the
Paramount Theatre in Asbury Park, N.J. Cash classics like "I Walk the Line"
and "Folsom Prison Blues" are present and accounted for, the disc also
features Johnny and Carter dueting on "Jackson" and "The Wreck of Old '97"
and tracks "What is Man" and "Forty Shades of Green" with New Jersey native Clark.
The most recent Cash release was "American V: Hundred Highways," the Rick
Rubin-produced collection of Cash's final studio sessions, which made it to No.
1 on the Billboard 200 in July 2006. Here is the track list for "The Great Lost Performance":
"Ring of Fire"
"Life's Railway to Heaven"
"Wonderful Time Up There"
"Folsom Prison Blues"
"Sunday Morning Coming Down"
"What Is Man"
"Forty Shades of Green"
"Come Along and Ride This Train"
"Five Feet High and Rising"
"Pickin' Time"
"A Beautiful Life"
"Hey Porter"
"Ragged Old Flag"
"Tennessee Flat Top Box"
"Ghost Riders in the Sky"
"Jackson"
"The Wreck of Old '97"
"I Walk the Line"
B.B. KING, LES PAUL & OTHERS ROCK!
Here is a really unbelievable Youtube clip showing B.B. King, Les Paul, and Stanley
Jordan doing rock and roll. They are doing Blue Suede Shoes:
Eddie Van Halen, Steve Miller, Waylon Jennings, Jan Hammer, and David Gilmour of
Pink Floyd. The Stray Cats kick it off. They are definitely doing the Carl Perkins' original version of the
song. This is great because here we have B.B. King and Les Paul doing
rock and roll and playing rock and roll licksl. And Jazzman Stanley Jordan
is playing along too. Here is the link:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=gyR3PlP3qRs.
MERLE HAGGARD'S NEW CD / "TRUE DISCOGRAPHY"
More about Merle Haggard's new "Working Man's Journey"
CD and The Hag's "True Discography" can be
found here.
RAY CAMPI AT THE AMERICANA
Ray Campi will be playing in the U.K. at the big Americana International
music festival (http://www.americana-promotions.co.uk/) on Saturday, July 7th, at
the The County Showground, Winthorpe Nr. Newark, Nottinghamshire. The band
will include Ray's longtime lead guitarist Kevin Fennell, so it's gonna be a hot
show!
SPARKLE & TWANG:
MARTY STUART'S AMERICAN MUSICAL ODYSSEY
Shake, Rattle and Roll on down to the Tennessee State Museum at 5th and Deaderick to see
the new FREE exhibit entitled SPARKLE & TWANG: MARTY STUART'S AMERICAN MUSICAL ODYSSEY.
Noe open, this exhibition features treasures from the late Johnny Cash, Hank Williams,
Sr., Patsy Cline, Elvis, Lester Flatt and other notable celebrities in the field of
country, rockabilly, bluegrass and Southern gospel. This uniquely American premiere
collection illustrates the impact of fashion and music on popular culture in the U.S. as
revealed through performance costumes, accessories, hand-written lyrics, personal letters,
instruments and unpublished photographs. Continuing through Nov. 11, 2007, the exhibition
is a culmination of Stuart's nationwide celebration of the past, present and future of
country music.
The Museum is in downtown Nashville and is open Tuesday - Saturday from 10 AM until 5 PM
and on Sunday from 1 until 5 PM. For more information, please call (615) 741-2692.
WANDA JACKSON FILMINGMbr>
Posted June 1, 2007 - "The Nice Lady With the Nasty Voice??? was produced by K.P.I. Film of New York.
Film crews along with an independent film producer from Los Angeles, Joanne Fish,
followed Jackson and her husband, Wendell Goodman, from Hollywood to Helsinki,
Finland, for footage.
Crews filmed her concerts, recording sessions and travels, and interviewed
fans for a feature-length documentary that is in the final editing stages,
the release said.
The Smithsonian Institution-sponsored film will be screened at the
Smithsonian in Washington, D.C., in August.
The first deadCenter Film Festival screening will be at 5:30 p.m. Thursday on Screen 4 at
the Harkins Bricktown Cinemas 16, Okla City. The second showing will be 7:30 p.m.
June 9 at the same location.
Jackson is on a tour of Australia and France until June 22.
SHOW: ERVIN TRAVIS "TRIBUTE TO GENE VINCENT"
26 JUNE 2007 AT MERIDIEN ETOILE - PARIS
Since 1975, the jazz club Lionel Hampton (MERIDIEN ETOILE - PARIS), recieve the most
greats names of the US' music: LIONEL HAMPTON, BB King, FATS DOMINO, SCREAMIN'
JAY HAWKINS ... and recently IKE TURNER. These artists who are built the history of JAZZ,
RHYTHM AND BLUES, R 'n' R and the club's reputation when the last 30 years.
THE TUESDAY 26 JUNE 2OO7, ERVIN TRAVIS WILL BE THE SPECIAL GUEST FOR THE SHOW
"TRIBUTE TO GENE VINCENT". Single event in PARIS, for revival the torrid atmosphere of
the unforgettable ROCKER into a mythical place.
At this occasion we would be glad to invite you (please confirm your presence).
SINCERELY, Serge NEYER Directeur AssociŽ - Tel : +33(0) 1 49 38 13 42
- Port : +33(0) 6 60 49 50 00
BO DIDDLEY UPDATE
We are delighted to be able to report that BO DIDDLEY was transferred on May 21st
from the intensive care unit to a regular room at the Creighton University Medical Center
in Omaha, NE.
In time, it is expected that he will return to his Gainesville, FL home, where he is
expected to continue treatment at Shands Medical Center at the University of Florida. It
also appears that he has suffered no long-term, physical damage from the May 13th stroke.
Fans are asked not to contact the hospital, but can continue to send their well wishes to
him at postmaster@tciartists.com or to TCI (Talent Consultants International, Ltd.), 105
Shad Row, 2nd Floor, Piermont, NY 10968 or via the BO DIDDLEY-The Originator website at
surfsinkorswim@yahoo.com or via the website's Guestbook, located at
http://members.tripod.com/~Originator_2/guestbook.html
We thank each and every one who has e-mailed in with their messages of love, encouragement
and support in recent days. Freda Adams - Wife of Rockabilly Pioneer Billy Adams Passes
May 14, 2007 -- Freda Adams, wife of rockabilly pioneer, and gospel music
recording artist, Billy Adams, passed away on Friday, May 11, 2007 after a long battle with
uterine cancer.
Freda Louise Riffe and Willie Murray "Billy"Adams were married in Flatwoods, Ky., on July
9, 1961. For the last 46 years, the two shared an inspiring and romantic fairy-tale love
story. Three daughters were born to the union; Tina Maria, Teresa Louise, and Janetta
Darlene. Mrs. Adams was a devoted wife and mother who loved cooking and caring for her
family. She also enjoyed crocheting, reading, and working crossword puzzles. After her
husband gave his heart to the Lord in 1965, she worked tirelessly for the remainder of her
life to support his ministry. Together they founded and revived many churches across
Kentucky and Tennessee. As their ministry grew, the family formed a musical group, which
featured Freda on piano and organ, and they spent many years traveling across the United
States to help spread the word of God.
Billy Adams, still an active writer and performer, is best known for his 1957 rockabilly
classic, "Rock, Pretty Mama,"and his gospel song, "I Saw The Man,"both of which he wrote
and recorded. The latter was also a chart-topper for The Happy Goodman Family in 1974.
NEWS FROM DEMPSEY LAND.
May 11, 2007 - We have exciting news involving The King of Rock N' Roll and The
Dempseys. We have been invited to play at Elvis In Concert, wich is
a concert featuring Elvis via Video screen in some of his best 70's
performances with his original TCB band playing live to his
isolated vocal. The event is remarkable due to the technology that
reunites Elvis with his original band mates. We will be backing
Elvis during his 1950's television performances in the same way the
70's footage is used. Elvis' original drummer, DJ Fontana will be
playing with us during this portion of the show. In 2002 we played
at the same show and this year we are honored to be asked back,
considering we're the only musicians on the bill who weren't
actually there with Elvis during these historic performances. For
more information on how the concert is fused together log onto
www.elvis.com and for pictures of us at the last concert log onto
www.thedempseys.net. The concert will be held on Thursday August
16th at the Fed Ex Forum in downtown Memphis.
The Dempseys, 4880 Mendenhall Pl, Memphis, Tennessee 38117, USA -
thedempseys@midsouth.rr.com
ZOLA TAYLOR, of the Platters, Dies.
Ms. Zola Taylor, an original member of the classic Platters
lineup who scored international hits with their smooth vocal
group harmony sides in the 1950s, died Monday morning, April 30,
2007, in Los Angeles County, California at age 69. Additional
details have not yet been made available, although she had been
in ill health for some time. Ms. Taylor, whose date of birth was
given as March 17, 1938, had reportedly suffered a stroke several
years ago.
An attractive contralto, she recorded and toured internationally
with the Platters from 1954-1964 and was heard on the group's
biggest hits including "Only You", "The Great Pretender", "My
Prayer", "Smoke Gets In Your Eyes", and "Twilight Time". Taylor
was featured as the lead vocalist on a number of the Platters'
recordings including "Indiff'rent"recordings including "In
and Ball", "Someone To Watch Over Me", "I Don't Know Why",
"Maggie Doesn't Work Here Anymore", and "Mean To Me".
Before being recruited into the group by manager Buck Ram as a
15-year old in March of 1954, Ms. Taylor had recorded for RPM
Records ("Make Love To Me", RPM #405) and had worked with Shirley
Gunter and the Queens. Taylor and the Platters appeared in
several of the genre's early films, including "Rock Around The
Clock" and "The Girl Can't Help It". At one time, Ms. Taylor was
married to the late singing star Frankie Lymon, and was portrayed
by Halle Berry in the 1998 motion picture "Why Do Fools Fall in
Love".
During the 1970s, she worked with other former originals Paul
Robi and David Lynch in a touring Platters group and was inducted
into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1990.
Ms. Taylor was preceded in death by her former singing partners,
Tony Williams (1928-1992), Paul Robi (1931-1989), and David Lynch
(1929-1981). Today, original founder and bass singer Herbert
Reed, is the classic group's sole survivor.
COLIN WINSKI R.I.P.
APRIL, 2007 - Colin Winski died at his home in Phoenix, AZ at the age of 50.
Born in Hollywood in 1957 he became
interested in Elvis
which eventually lead him to explore the music of Gene Vincent, Roy Orbison
and others. In 1970 he met Ronnie Weiser and became part of Ray Campi's
Rockabilly Rebels.
You can read more about Colin at
http://www.rockabillyhall.com/ColinWinski1.html. A
full discography is included there.
"MONSTER MASH" MAN DIES
April 26, 2007 - Bobby "Boris" Pickett, whose Monster Mash hit in 1962 made him one of the biggest one-hit wonders in
the history of pop music, has died in Los Angeles at age 69. Picket died on Wednesday after a long
battle with leukaemia.
The novelty song, which featured an impression of horror-movie actor Boris Karloff, was an instant
hit when it was released before Halloween 1962, with the chorus: "He did the monster mash ... It was
a graveyard smash".
It charted again in August 1970 and May 1973.
Pickett never recreated the success of Monster Mash but remained in demand for Halloween
performances, continuing to perform until his final gig in November 2006. Rockabilly Boogie 4, 31 August - 3 September
Reservation Form
From Italy ... THE ASTROPHONIX "Suspended Time" CD
Thunderball Rec. 2007 (Neorockabilly, Neosurf, Rock) 10 Tracks Contact
DAVID POZOLINSKI R.I.P.
Who is Dave "Puzzle" Pozolinski from Menasha, Wisconsin? He was a great drummer back
in the late '50s,
and a long time close personal friend of Bob Timmers. Dave was the drummer on
"Rock 'n' Roll Saddles". The song was the first rock "45" recorded in the state of
Wisconsin, released January 1, 1957 and was featured on American Bandstand.
Dave had a large collection of early rock records at his home, all in mint condition.
He was instrumental in getting Bob into the music game back when they were
freshmen in high school. Dave died April 19, 2007 at the age of 66.
Thanks Dave - Bob
April 14, 2007 - Hail, Hail, Rock and Roll!
Some music aficionados argue (quite
convincingly) that rock music was born 53 years ago today, at 4:30PM
in a Manhattan sound studio, when Bill Haley recorded the inspired
and immortal words, "One-two-three o'clock, four o'clock ROCK!"
establishing the song "Rock Around the Clock" as rock's international
anthem. Rock is still alive and well, but Bill died of a heart
attack at just 55.
Bill Haley, July 6, 1925 - February 9, 1981, Cremated.
Hey BO DIDDLEY fans,
The popular AOL Music website has added a collection of photos of BO DIDDLEY taken on-stage
recently in Australia by James Green and Paul Kane of Getty Images Asia Pac. This new AOL
Music BO DIDDLEY Photo Collection is located at
http://music.aol.com/artist/bo-diddley/57518/photos/.
TRAVIS LaDOYT USA SHOW
Friday, May 18 - CLEVELAND TN - Allied Arts Council - 5633 Lexington Place NW -
Two 40-minute shows at 6:30 pm and 8 pm - Contact Connie Gatlin 423-472-0167
Mike Vincent, Dickie Harrell, Jay Chevalier, Glen Glenn, Billy Lee Riley, Bob (Git It)
Kelly, Chan Romero and Art Adams at the VLV Rockabilly Hall of Fame 10th Anniversary Show
April 6 2007. (from Bob Kelly's camera, taken by Sandy Vincent)
Donnie Brooks' Family and Friends Tribute Video
MOVIE: "Walk Hard"
March 28, 2007 - Jack White is to appear in a new film as Elvis Presley, according to
reports. The White Stripes and Raconteurs star will feature in a forthcoming parody of
the 2005 Johnny Cash biopic "Walk The Line".
The movie is called "Walk Hard", and is expected to focus on a fictional rockabilly
musician in the vein of Roy Orbison and Johnny Cash, played by John C. Reilly.
A spokesman for Jack, who has previously appeared in both "Cold Mountain" and "Coffee
And Cigarettes", yesterday confirmed he would play Elvis in the film.
Obituary: Paschall Parsons, drummer for the
Strikes
Cmdr. Walter Paschall Parsons, USN Ret., 68, of Norfolk, Va., died Friday, March 9, 2007,
at his residence. He was a native of Graham and a resident of Hampton Roads for more than
30 years. He was the son of the late George Edwin Parsons and Margaret Stovall Parsons.
Commander Parsons retired from the United States Navy after 35 years of service to his
country. He also retired from Verizon Virginia Inc., as supervisor of engineering after
12 years of employment. One brother, George Edwin Parsons Jr., preceded him in death in
March 1995.
He is survived by his wife, Shigeko Parsons of Chesapeake, Va.; two sisters; Margaret K.
Gallegos and her husband Seferino of Graham and Martha A. Thetford and her husband Ron
of Flower Mound; one half brother, John Edwin Parsons and his wife Josephine of
Lafayette, La; and seven nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his best friend,
Brian Rone of Jackson, Miss.
A MESSAGE FROM BILLY HANCOCK
March 23, 2007 - I would like to say that on Sat. March 17th, I attended a stage
performance of the Buddy Holly Story at the Wayside Theatre in Middletown, VA and
what a stellar performance it was. The cast, the music and story followed
everything we have come to know or read about Buddy's short life and career.
As most of my fans already know, Buddy was one of my major influences, so
I have come to know a good deal about him and his band of Crickets. It is
at this time, I would like to set the record straight on one of the most
misunderstood gigs Buddy Holly & The Crickets ever played.
On or about the same time that Buddy formed his group of Crickets,
there were another bunch of guys with that same name, only they were a
black group called "The Crickets". The Crickets featuring Dean Barlow, to be exact.
The black R & B Crickets were actually breaking up as Buddy's group was
getting recognition. When the booker for the Apollo Theatre booked Buddy
& the boys, he thought he was getting the Black Crickets. So it never was an
issue that Holly's voice sounded so black that he was mistakenly booked
into an all black music venue. However, all's well that ends well,
and the audience that night at least accepted Buddy's efforts and
all was forgotten, at least until some Hollywood screenwriter decided to change
history.... well enough of that. - Billy - cslark51@msn.com TAKE NOTE: WANDA TO VISIT AUSTRALIA ...
"Big Al Downing Live At XM Radio Washington, D.C."
Albe Music proudly announces the March 1st, 2007 release of "Big Al Downing Live At XM Radio.
The two CD set contains the Live Concert recorded at XM Radio on August 6th,
2003 and the interview with XM Radio's Country Dan Dixon recorded at the Country Music Hall of Fame
on May 6th, 2005. "Big Al Downing Live At XM Radio Washington, D.C." represents Big Al's first
release of previously recorded but unreleased material since his death on July 4th, 2005.
Order online at http://www.bigaldowning.com or
www.aldowning.com.
John Beland Goes to Norway
John, renown guitarist for Ricky Nelson, and leader of the legendary band The
Flying Burrito Brothers, will perform at the Ose Country Music Festival on July 19
in Setesdal, Norway. John will perform with fellow Burrito (and writer for Carl Perkins)
Larry Patton as, THE BELAND / PATTON BAND. John & Larry will appear as a trio along
with longtime drumming partner Will Roberts. All three once made up Bobby Bare's
touring band, appearing worlwide with Bare during the mid 80's.
This is rare chance to see Beland in action, as most of his time is now spent exclusively in the
studio where he produces acts in the USA as well as Australia.
Beland will be playing his famous Fender BBender Telecaster and will also perform a few of
Nelson's rockabilly numbers. John was instrumental in helping Rick Nelson with his comeback
in the late 70's. He and Rick recorded Nelson's critically acclaimed album THE MEMPHIS SESSIONS in
1979, which yielded Rick his last chart single, "Dream Lover."
Since then, John has written and played on many hit records from Garth Brooks to the Bellamy Brothers.
The duo is currently in the studio recording their debut album "THE BELAND / PATTON BAND "THE BAR IS OPEN!"
Set for release this summer.
If you're in the Norway area ... don't miss John & Larry. Rockin country blues with a taste of west coast
rockabilly. For more info click onto. www.johnbeland.com www.myspace.com/flyingb56
or... www.myspace.com/belandpatton
R.I.P: DONNIE BROOKS
Donnie, a singer with rockabilly roots who sang the hit song MISSION BELL in 1960, has died. He was 71.
Brooks died on Friday, Feb. 23, 2007 of congestive heart failure in Panorama City, California. In the 1950s
and 1960s, Brooks appeared at El Monte Legion Stadium, a popular venue for rock concerts featuring
such performers as RAY CHARLES and STEVIE WONDER. Recording under the name JOHNNY FAIRE in the
late 1950s, he released the single BERTHA LOU, which became a rockabilly favourite. Among his
hits were DOLL HOUSE, MEMPHIS and his most famous song, the top 10 pop hit Mission Bell.
In the 1970s, he began producing and appearing in revival tours featuring musical acts
from the 1950s and 1960s and continued to perform until he was injured in a car accident in 2003.
Brooks was inducted into the Rockabilly Hall of Fame in Burns, Tennessee in 2003.
COMET JOHN LANE HAS DIED
"Drummer John "Bam-Bam" Lane, a member of the Comets
during the 1960s and who for the last 20 years or so has run his own Comets
group, passed away on February 18.
I'll be posting an RHOF 'Extra' column update with more information soon." - Alex, alexfh@shaw.ca
THE ROCK N ROLL HALL OF FAME will be celebrated on the music television
network CONCERT.TV from March 1st March 31st. CONCERT.TV is a FREE to view on demand
television network that programs memorable performances, compelling documentaries
and unique originals for subscribers of Comcast, Cox, Insight, Charter
and many other digital cable services. To check for availability of CONCERT.TV
on your local cable service, look in the on demand listings or visit them
online at www.concert.tv.
"EVERY NIGHT IS SATURDAY NIGHT:
THE STORY OF WANDA JACKSON" Message to RHOF readers: My name is Jeff Meltz and I work for a documentary production company in New York called KPI.
I'm currently working on a feature length documentary about Wanda Jackson, the queen of rockabilly
and the first lady of rock and roll. It follows Ms. Jackson's musical career that includes
hits in the country, rock 'n' roll, gospel and rockabilly genres.
We have been filming on the road, at home, and in the studio with Wanda - getting her story every step
of the way. Our working title is "EVERY NIGHT IS SATURDAY NIGHT: THE STORY OF WANDA JACKSON".
Our goal is that this documentary is not just to give this female pioneer her due, but also will
act as a catalyst for her induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. This film will shine a
light on the immeasurable impact Wanda Jackson had on the birth of rock 'n' roll.
It is because of Wanda's influence that I'm trying to find footage/home movies or photographs
of modern kids doing the rockabilly look. You know what I mean. The cars. The hair.
The furniture. The guitars. The lifestyle. I'm trying to illustrate the resurgence that's
happened in the past 10 years in regard to the new styles of psychobilly and roots musical
groups and fans. Anything you can think of to send to me for inclusion in the documentary
would be most helpful. We'd be glad to give a special thanks credit in the film to whomever
submits material to us. Please let me know if you know of someone or if you yourself
are interested in helping out. Thanks so much!! Jeff Meltz - jmeltz@kpitv.com
MARCO DI MAGGIO the DI MAGGIO CONNECTION in CHINA!
Feb 27 2007 - JAZZ CLUB SHANGAI
Feb 28 2007 10:00P - CLUB 288 SHANGAI
Mar 1 2007 10:00P - Yu Gong Yi Shan PEKING/BEIJING
Mar 2 2007 10:00P - Traveller Club HANGZHOU
Mar 3 2007 8:00P - JAZZ Club Hangzhou HANGZHOU
FIFTIES in FEBRUARY at the SURF BALLROOM, Iowa
"This year was one of the best Fifties in February I have been to at the Surf Ballroom
Except for Friday night they only had two Bands then they had a sock hop they should have
those sock hops in the afternoon a lot of people left when that started.
Tommy Allsup & Friends, The Cleftones, Barbara Lewis, Jimmy Gilmer & the Fireballs,
The Crickets, Bobby Vee & his 3 boys all sounded Great.
Dale Hawkins Sounded & Looked Great said he had one more Chemo treatment to go I wish
Him well. I Look forward to seeing him again. Dale Hawkins had a guitar player with him
from Scotland He was awesome as well.
All so when Bobby Vee was doing his part of the show he mentioned Buddy Knox &
Gene Vincent which was nice. There were jam sessions with other musicians that did a
few Gene Vincent Songs. Allan Clark did a nice Eddie Cochran Tribute."
- Tony Flores - flores_tony@msn.com CONNIE FRANCIS, 2007
Photo: Marshall Lytle
Check on ROCKY BURNETTE'S new album here:
www.myspace.com/burnetterocky.
WORTH A CLICK: SHOUT, SISTER, SHOUT!
The Untold Story of Rock & Roll Trailbrazer Sister Rosetta Thorpe.
WORTH A CLICK: allmemphismusic.com Check out this 24 hour webcast radio station.
DANNY GATTON PODCAST
January 21, 2007 - "Hi, Please join me for a podcast interview at 8 p.m. (EST) on Tuesday, January 23,
on the Artist First Internet Radio Network, where I'll be doing an hour-long live
interview on behalf of my book, UNFINISHED BUSINESS: THE LIFE & TIMES OF DANNY GATTON.
As usual, the focus will be Danny's life, licks and legacy, and listeners will have a
chance to have their questions read over the air. Once it's broadcast, the show
will be archived for four months.
To listen, click http://stream.netro.ca/afrn,
or log in on www.artistfirst.com, and click
the 'Click here to listen' button. Regards," Ralph Heibutzki - chairmanralph@yahoo.com Bob Halley Productions is proud to announce the signing of Rockabilly Hall of Famer,
Gold Recording Artist, Matt Lucas, to Halley's new recording label. The debut release by Lucas
is set for March 15.
Halley has enjoyed much success as a songwriter with recordings by artist's ranging from Nat King Cole,
Baby Washington, The Tempations to Johnny Duncan and Bette Midler. As an arranger and producer
he worked with 60's-70's stars Bobby Darin, Helen Reddy, and many others.
Right now Matt and Bob are putting the finishing touches on his above mentioned CD.
They look forward to a long and rewarding collaboration together.
More info is being prepared for updates at www.bobhalley.com
JON JOHNSON R.I.P.
Writer/musician Jon Erik Johnson passed away the morning of Wednesday January 17th at
home in his apartment in Wollaston at around 8:15 AM. It appears he
died of complications from a sudden seizure. He probably was
unconscious before he even knew what was going on, and passed away
quickly without suffering.
I'd not been able to reach him over the course of the afternoon
Wednesday, and when I called his place of work, he'd not come in and
they'd not been able to reach him. On hearing this I felt worried and
headed over immediately to his place and let myself in. I found him
already gone.
Police, paramedics and others of that sort came over and were
professional and warm. Their appraisal of what had happened was the
same as mine. He'd had serious seizures of an epileptic grand mal type
starting 9 months ago, and even though the meds he'd been taking for
that had seemed to be helping, there's just no way to completely
protect against this kind of circumstance.
It had been his 43rd birthday this last weekend, and he and I had a
great weekend up in New Hampshire visiting with our parents. He'd been
in excellent spirits, had a notable glow of well being and happiness.
We had great family time together. Tuesday night he'd had a filmed
interview and rehearsal with Lenny and the Piss Poor Boys, and they
say he'd been in fine form, happy and laughing and doing some of what
he loved best.
If it just has to happen that someone has to go, this is as good as it
gets. Top of the game, enjoying life, and no warning or suffering.
But I miss him so bad. He was an amazing person, and my only brother.
I loved him so much. Still do.
-Courtesy: Jon's brother, Scott
A NOTE ABOUT JON ...
I am heartbroken. I am not going to write an eulogy .. there are
others here who knew him better. But I will say this hurts. This
really hurts. He is a founding member of the rockabilly list from
1996 (and its various offshoots, such as RaB-HoF, hillbilly, and
rockinrecords). For a very long time he was probably the most
informative and interesting contributor, and an early behind the
scenes foot-soldier in every aspect of making the world safe for
rockabilly and dynamic roots music. He was a journalist, a musician
and an active fan, the kind who helped round up the early support for
such experiments as Viva Las Vegas. He is also one of only a small
handful of people I would seek out at international festivals, as he
was someone both down-to-earth yet filled with interesting knowledge
and insight, someone who would have likely have been a close friend
if we had ever lived in the part of the country. But the bonds of
time sometime compensate for the bonds of geography. Also on a
personal note Jon wrote and published the first and still among the
most articles about Marti.
-Bobby Brom
From Jon's mother:
Dear Friends Of Jon, Thank you for your many condolences and prayers
after the sudden and shocking death of our son Jon yesterday. We have
received many inquiries as to arrangements for days & times for
visitation & funeral service, internment, memorial fund, etc. This
information is provided in italics at the end of Jon's obituary which is
below. Thank you for your prayers for all of our family and friends in
this time of loss. Jon was a wonderful, loving, gifted, caring, and
unusual man who left an impact on all those he shared his life with. It
was a privilege to have him with us for as long as we did. Although it
was short in human terms, it was filled to the brim with many diverse
accomplishments and an enthusiasm for life, and a love for music, people
and God that was remarkable. Mary Johnson (Jon's Mother)
Hey BO DIDDLEY fans,
The Cavern Club in Liverpool, England celebrated its 50th birthday in style January 16th by
announcing that BO DIDDLEY is set to play the world-famous venue this summer.
The Saturday June 9th appearance will be one of several high-profile "Legends" concerts
to be staged at the club in coming months.
The 13-hour VIP celebration at the Cavern featured more than 30 live rock & jazz
bands, some paying tribute to The Beatles as well as some of the new bands who still
play at the club.
BO DIDDLEY last appeared at the Cavern Club in 2001, performing 2 ecstatically-received
sold-out shows. It is possible that more European dates for this summer will be added
and fans in Europe are therefore advised to check with the BO DIDDLEY-The
Originator website's Forthcoming Appearances page located at
http://members.tripod.com/~Originator_2/dates.html for any further details.
The Official Cavern Club website's BO DIDDLEY profile:
http://www.cavern-liverpool.co.uk/cavernclub/profiles/bodiddley_profile.htm
JAMES BROWN: 1933-2006
December 25, 2006 - James Brown, the dynamic, pompadoured "Godfather of Soul", whose rasping
vocals and revolutionary rhythms made him a founder of rap, funk and disco, died today
in Atlanta, aged 73. Brown, whose career spanned six decades, was taken to hospital
yesterday with pneumonia.
Brown, who had his first hit, Please, Please, Please in 1956, earned the nickname
"The Hardest Working Man in Show Business" for his tour schedule and number of performances.
He was still touring this year, with concerts as far flung as Auckland, New Zealand.
Brown won a Grammy award for lifetime achievement in 1992, as well as Grammys in 1965
for Papa's Got a Brand New Bag (best R&B recording) and for Living In America in 1987
(best male R&B vocal performance.)
He was one of the initial artists inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in
1986, along with Elvis Presley, Chuck Berry and other founding fathers.
He triumphed despite an often unhappy personal life. Brown spent more than two years
in a South Carolina prison for assault and failing to stop for a police officer.
Born in poverty in Barnwell, South Carolina, in 1933, he was abandoned as a four-year-old
to the care of relatives and friends and grew up on the streets of Augusta, Georgia,
in an "ill-repute area", as he once called it. There he learned to wheel and deal.
"I wanted to be somebody," Brown said.
His troubled childhood saw him duck in and out of reform school, and it was
there that he met Bobby Byrd, a major early influence. While most of Brown's
life was glitz and glitter, he was plagued with many charges, among them: abusing drugs and
alcohol and hitting his third wife, Adrienne.
Hayden Thompson Country CD to be Released Feb., 2007.
Hayden Thompson, the legendary Sun Records rockabilly artist fromthe 50'S, has made country
recording to be released in February 2007. The pictoresque recording location, an old school
house at a lakeside, is situated in the very heart of the Finnish countryside.
The musician on the album represent the top Finnish country pack. "The talent of
these guys really knocked me out", says Hayden.
"Cutting a country album does not mean that I am turning my back to lny rockabilly fans",
states Hayden. The songs with a country flavor suit this Southern gentleman beautifully
and when Bluelight Records from Finland offered a chance to record a country CD
he accepted it without hesitation.
Also: Hayden plans to record a new rockabilly CD for St George Records in February.
"THE BO DIDDLEY STORY"
"The Bo Diddley Story" is the title of a major new 3-part series to be broadcast during
January 2007 by the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) Radio 2 network.
Narrated by The Who's Roger Daltrey, "The Bo Diddley Story" features a new interview with
BO DIDDLEY along with conversations with harmonica player Billy Boy Arnold, drummer
and harmonica player Willie "Big Eyes" Smith and guitarist Jody Williams, plus
Dave Davies (The Kinks), Ray Fenwick (Spencer Davis Group, Ian Gillan Band,
Syndicats etc), Wilco Johnson (Dr. Feelgood, Solid Senders etc) and Tom McGuinness
(Manfred Mann, The Blues Band, John Mayall etc), among others.
Episode 1 of "The Bo Diddley Story" is scheduled to air on BBC Radio 2 on
Tuesday January 16th from 9.30pm-10.00pm (GMT/UTC), Episode 2 on Tuesday January 23rd
from 9.30pm-10.00pm (GMT/UTC) and Episode 3 on Tuesday January 30th from 9.30pm-10.00pm
(GMT/UTC).
Listeners around the world will be able to listen on-line to this 3-part series
streamed in RealMedia format by visiting the BBC Radio 2 Documentaries webpage located
at http://www.bbc.co.uk/radio2/documentaries/ and clicking the "Listen Live" link or,
for an additional 7 days after each of the 3 programs has aired, by clicking the
"Listen Again" link.
THE LEGENDARY LEON BASS:
Mr. "Love-a-Rama" and "Country Hicks" would like to let rockabilly fans know
that he has a rare CD for sale. You may contact him at: Leon Bass, 3-CR 116,
Apt. 6, Cornith, MS 38834. Phone 662-286-0151. DON "BOB" JOHNSTON INDUCTED TO RHOF
Wednesday, December 13, 2006, at a prominent Nashville
Recording Studio,
Don "Bob" Johnston received his
Rockabilly Hall of Fame® induction certificate. Johnston
will release a special Carl Perkins CD project in the spring of 2007.
Pictured, L-R: Dan Mitchell, "Bob" Johnston, Bob Timmers and
Gordon Stinston.
RAY CAMPI'S "with friends along the way" CD. 27 great tracks. SONNY DECKELMAN'S CD and title track song here.
ALAN CLARK: Shows and Merchandise ... January 6, 2007 Glen Glenn, Tommy Sands and Alan Clark-Elvis Honeymoon Home -
Palm Springs, Calif. (2 to 4:00 p.m.) February 1, 2007
The Shackshakers, Alan Clark and others - Stillman Auditorium-Clear Lake, Iowa
(1:30 to 3:00 p.m. ?) February 2, 2007
Little Richie and Alan Clark - Ventura Community Center - 4 North Weimer St. - Ventura,
Iowa (7 to 11 p.m.) February 3, 2007
The Shackshakers and Alan Clark-Surf Ballroom Lounge-Fifties in February-Clear Lake,
Iowa (12 noon to 3:00 p.m.)
Alan will also be selling items at the memorabilia show in the Surf Ballroom from
9 in the morning until noon.
He will have my new duet CD available which includes duets with Hank Ballard,
Glen Glenn, Frankie Ford, Ray Campi,
Ron Holden, Jody Reynolds, Donnie Brooks, Ronnie Height and Frankie Ford.
Alan will also be appearing on the 2007 Rockabilly Hall of Fame shows in Vas Veags
and Green Bay.
Contact Alan: aclarkarchive@earthlink.net
HEY BO DIDDLEY FANS:
In recent weeks, yet more bands and artists have joined the growing ranks of those who have
released tributes in song to BO DIDDLEY: the popular California-based blues/roots band Them
Junko King Hats ("Rhythm Gladiator - Tribute to Bo Diddley"), San Francisco-based
punk/country/gospel/rockabilly quartet the Suicide Doors ("Hey Mr. Diddley"), the
prolific Pittsburgh-based experimental artist Mike Macharyas ("Bo Diddley") and the
Long Island teacher, writer and children's songwriter Richard Younger ("Thank Bo Diddley").
His fans can now "Thank Bo Diddley" too, as one of the founding fathers of rock & roll
celebrates his 78th birthday on Saturday December 30th and we are encouraging all his many
admirers around the world to sign the BO DIDDLEY-The Originator website Guestbook with your
special birthday greetings and messages.
As we always do at this time of year, we are making special arrangements for BO DIDDLEY
to view each and every one of your greetings. This is an opportunity for you to convey
your appreciation and best wishes to one of the undisputed legends of rock & roll and a
true original, on the occasion of his 78th birthday.
Please sign the Guestbook, located at
http://members.tripod.com/~Originator_2/guestbook.html
and show your support for The Originator - BO DIDDLEY. Thank you very much. "Rockin' in Wisconsin: The Cuca Records Story Vol. 3".
on ACE RECORDS.
2007 Red Hot & Blue Rockabilly Weekend Scheduled.
Québec. - The dates are now confirmed for the Red Hot & Blue
Rockabilly Weekend 2007, the festival will take place
at the Hotel des Seigneurs, August 3, 4 and 5th
(Friday Saturday and Sunday).
Mark your calendars and don't miss this event!
Nathalie Lavergne: Coordonnatrice d'événements/Productrice de spectacles,
Event coordinator/Show producer -
www.rockabillyjam.com
RE: TILLMAN FRANKS:
Dear friends, If you want to access Tillman Franks' guest book you can use the following link: http://www.legacy.com/shreveporttimes/Obituaries.asp
Use Search option, by last name, FRANKS and at the bottom of his biography you will find the guest book.
Tillman will be missed by all his friends ... and that is a nice place to share our feelings with his family.
Sincerely yours from France. Dominique ANGLARES - anglares.dominique@wanadoo.fr
ELECTRIC GUITAR DAY: NOVEMBER 27th: 123greetings.com has some free Ecards for Electric Guitar Day.
Send an ecard to your friends and loved ones.
Nashville songwriter and publisher Marijohn Wilkin dies.
October 28. 2006 - Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame member and prominent Music Row song
publisher Marijohn Wilkin died this morning at age 86.
She was the co-writer of such classics as "The Long Black Veil" and "One Day at a Time."
Johnny Cash, The Beatles, Patsy Cline, Rod Stewart and dozens of other greats have sung
her songs. Wilkin is also credited with discovering Kris Kristofferson.
She was an award-winning gospel recording artist as well.
Her "Cut Across Shorty" was recorded by both rockabilly sensation Eddie Cochran and country
superstar Carl Smith. The song was revived by rocker Rod Stewart in 1970 and again in 1993.
Debbie Reynolds, The Fleetwoods, Johnny Ray, Goldie Hill, The Chordettes, Les Paul & Mary Ford,
Brenda Lee, Mel Tillis, Cowboy Copas, The Osborne Brothers, Johnny Rivers, Billy Walker,
Teresa Brewer, Johnny Horton, Rex Allen and dozens more recorded her songs in the
1960s. An average of one Marijohn Wilkin song was recorded every week
during her Cedarwood career.
GARLIN HACKNEY UPDATE:
The new cd "All of the Sinners Are Not In the Bars" Release Party and food at Mother
Road Harley-Davidson Kingman Arizona Friday October 27th at High Noon (lunch time)
with Members from Mark Chesnutt's New South Band that played on the cd, Steve Ledford-Bass,
Delaney Jackson-lead and Lee Kelley-drums also from Mark's band, Shawn Bailey-fiddle
and Tim McDonald-piano. The cd Features the top 40 Country Hit 'Honky Tonk Outlaw,'
which peaked at # 47 on New Music Weekly's Main Country Chart July 7th 2006. Hope to see y'all there.
Hack
www.garlinhackney.com
BOB DYLAN INTRODUCES GENE SUMMERS
Here is a link to the MP3 of "School of Rock 'n Roll" with commentary by Bob Dylan
on his XM Satellite Radio Show "Theme Time Radio Hour With Your Host, Bob Dylan"
BobDylanPlaysSRR.mp3
DEMPSEYS UPDATE
Their faces were recently added to the walls of the world famous Palm Restaurant in Nashville
at 837 Second Avenue! The Palm, which was founded in New York in the 1920's, is a virtual
museum of cartoons and caricatures. When it was opened by Italian immigrants Pio Bozzi
and John Ganzi, they had no money to decorate. Luckily, their restaurant was located
very close to the headquarters of King Features Syndicate, and attracted a large
clientele of cartoonists. Often, to pay for a plate of spaghetti, the cartoonists would
draw their own creations on the walls. They're proud to be among the familiar faces to
receive what has since become an honor. Our thanks to The Palm Restaurant and
fans in Nashville for helping to make this possible.
The Dempseys, 4880 Mendenhall Pl, Memphis, Tennessee 38117, USA Art Adams and Bobby Crown to headline the "Crazy Legs Party".
Click on above graphic to view full poster. SCOTLAND - On Saturday, September 9th members of
Carrick Sports Club marked what would have Buddy Holly's 70th birthday.
Buddy Holly was born on September 7, 1936 and was tragically killed on February 3,
1959 although for many his music still lives on. Maybole's own rockabilly band "The
Peas" performed and the resident DJ, known to be a Buddy Holly fan, provided a good
night of old fashioned rock'n'roll.
LEONARD CHESS FEATURED ON BBC
Fans may be interested to know that the "Marc Riley's Mint" radio show on the British
Broadcasting Corporation's BBC 6 Music network on Sunday (September 17th) will include a
special "Producer Spotlight" feature on Leonard Chess, record company executive and the
founder of Chess Records.
"Marc Riley's Mint", a weekly program looking at the world of record collecting, is
broadcast Sundays from 10.00pm-12.00 midnight BST (9.00pm-11.00pm GMT/UTC).
Listeners around the world can listen on-line to this program streamed in either RealMedia or
Windows Media formats by visiting the BBC 6 Music "Marc Riley's Mint" webpage located
at www.bbc.co.uk/6music/shows/mint/ and clicking the "Listen Live" link or,
for an additional 7 days after the show has aired, by clicking the "Listen Again To This Show"
link.
WORTH A CLICK:ROY ORBISON The Big O: Beyond the Dark Glasses! All three Roy Orbison re-issues
were released by Monument/Legacy on 8 August 2006 in the US.
George Klein, long-time Elvis friend, hosts a regular program about Elvis which is broadcast live from Graceland
over Sirius radio. He invited Bob Timmers, Rockabilly Hall of Fame® founder, to be interviewed on Friday, September 1, 2006.
Among other things, they discussed the purpose of the "Rockabilly Hall of Fame®" Web site, which is to preserve the music
by giving exposure to veteran artists and today's performers via biographical features, news items, CD releases, etc.
One major accomplishment is that because of their association with the RHOF, many of the legends' careers have been
jumpstarted, and several of them have begun recording and touring again.
ACTOR GLENN FORD'S PASSING
8/31/06, Matt Lucas reports: "I am so sad to have learned that Glenn Ford has died.
Barb & I were at his home in Beverly Hills, Ca. in Jan. His son Peter is a friend of mine.
Although he was 90 and in bed I told him, "Boy Mr. Ford! Barb & I travel all over the world
and when I mention the name Glenn Ford they all smile as they know you & love you!
He looked up and said 'Thanks, Matt' and a tear rolled down his cheek!
I'll never forget that moment! I treasure every day with Barbara as I was so sick early
in the year out west. Im such a lucky guy to have my friends and still get to travel
and play my drums and sing my songs. Thinking of you!" Matt - bluejammatt@hotmail.com
SAMPLE THE NEW "KILLER" CD:
ARTIST: Jerry Lee Lewis
ALBUM TITLE: Last Man Standing
RELEASE DATE: September 26, 2006
LABEL: Artists First
AUDIO - 15 MIN. MEDLEY OF LAST MAN STANDING windows media real media
ROCKY BURNETTE JOINS THE EL TORO FAMILY!
Rocky Burnette, the son of legendary Johnny Burnette just joined the El Toro
roster of top class artists. Rocky flew dawn to Barcelona last July to record a full
length album to be released late this year or early next year.
15 songs were cut down in just 3 evenings and they include new ones and covers from his
dad demos such as "Wampus Cat" and "Crazy Legs" - plus Rocky's daughter Shanti
(3rd generation of Burnettes) is on Rock Therapy.
CHARLIE GRACIE CONCERT IN LONDON ENGLAND
Charlie departs for a month-long concert tour of Great Britain with stops in Amsterdam,
Holland and Berlin Germany (recording session) beginning Sept. 12th
with an appearance at the CLUB 1OO on OXFORD ST. in LONDON. ALBERT LEE, guitar legend,
follows Charlie at the same venue.
BUCK PAGE, Veteran Cowboy Singer Passes Away.
August 22, 2006 - Buck was a legend in the music industry. He was the founding member of
Riders of the Purple Sage, established in 1938. At age 84, he died at his home, peacefully.
Buck will be remembered as the last of the "Singing Cowboys" as he help build what we now call
"Western Music." Gene Simmons' Health Update
Aug. 21, 2006 - "Just happen to see your site and want you to know that Gene is in the
Sanctuary Hospice House in Tupelo, MS. He made it through a cancer operation
a few months back. There will be a benefit for him this Sunday August 27th at Good Time Charlie's
Restaurant in Tupelo. Thank you for your great music site."
Dean Koon - deandrd44@yahoo.com
Fred Foster celebrated his 75th birthday at BMI Party.
Fred Foster, legendary producer and founder of Monument Records, celebrated his 75th birthday
recently (July) with a cocktail reception at BMI-Nashville. Over 150 friends and family members
gathered to share in the fun, including: Matraca Berg, Dane Bryant, Buzz Cason, Jack Clement,
"Funky" Donnie Fritts, Vince Gill, Margie Hunt, Jerry Kennedy, Joe Mansfield,
Charlie McCoy, Beth Nielson-Chapman, Steve Popovich, Boots Randolph, Billy Swan,
and many more. Foster's age has not diminished his talents; recent projects include
Willie Nelson's YOU DON'T KNOW ME (Lost Highway), and an upcoming album featuring Merle
Haggard, Nelson and Ray Price.
Kern County Museum's Website
For those of you wishing to know more about Bakersfield's history the Kern County Museum which
is located in Bakersfield has a very in depth website at
www.kcmuseum.org .If you click onto Exhibits it will
take you to the Bakersfield Sound section which includes articles on many of the artists known
as the early pioneers of the Bakersfield Sound.
SUPPORT TRADITIONAL COUNTRY LEGENDS.
ATTENTION HANK/COUNTRY MUSIC FANS - Joe Penny is offering a great special
offer on his CD "The Hank Williams 50th Anniversary Tribute Album" and his
50-page booklet "Lookin' Back On Hank"" - For a limited time you can buy
both for only $15.00 (which includes shipping and handling) - and this is a
significant savings over the prices listed in the Drifting Cowboys web
site - and for more details on the CD and booklet and biographical info on
Joe see the web site at
http://www.angelfire.com/ny3/thedriftingcowboys/catpenny.html .
Joe's CD is one of my favorite Hank tributes and it tells quite a story in
itself - but the book is a must to complete the picture - and do ask for
Joe's autograph on both items when ordering.
To order send a check or money order to:
Joe Penny,
4013 Cork Rd.,
Plant City, FL 33565-3851.
If you order directly from Joe via this special offer you get a better
deal - it beats buying the CD on www.cdbaby.com (the price there for the CD
alone is $12.97 - plus S&H). It is like getting the book free - but do
check the cdbaby site if you want to hear some song samples (go to web site
http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/joepenny).
The web sites given provide a lot of info on Joe and he did also point out
that he was lead guitarist for Hank in 1947 and 1948 - so he was there and
knows what he is singing and writing about.
FREDDY FENDER'S CONDITION
August 03, 2006 - Musician Freddy Fender has incurable cancer, discovered after tumors
were found on his lungs, and his wife said they are "hoping for a
miracle."
"I feel very comfortable in my life," Fender told the Corpus Christi
Caller-Times. "I'm one year away from 70 and I've had a good run. I
really believe I'm OK. In my mind and in my heart, I feel OK. I
cannot complain that I haven't lived long enough, but I'd like to
live longer."
Fender started his career in the late 1950s and hit the charts
with "Before the Next Teardrop Falls," "Wasted Days and Wasted
Nights" and "You'll Lose a Good Thing." He has won three Grammy
Awards, the most recent in 2002.
He was to have surgery in early January to remove the upper left
lobe of his lung because of a fungal infection, but surgeons found
two large tumors and left the lobe intact. Fender underwent
chemotherapy in late January but stopped because of its side
effects. A scan later found nine more tumors.
He was resting at his home in Corpus Christi, said Vangie Huerta,
his wife and manager, adding that she did not ask doctors to
estimate how long he might live.
Fender, who has canceled all performances, has decided to resume
chemotherapy at a lower dosage. "We can prolong his life with
medication or chemo, but it's not a cure," his wife said.
Fender received a kidney from his daughter in 2002 and a liver
transplant in 2004. He has had problems with diabetes and hepatitis
C.
Goodness gracious: Lewis has an album on the way
Great balls of firepower. As if legend Jerry Lee Lewis weren't imposing enough to pull off a
noteworthy rock 'n' roll return, he has bolstered his upcoming album with a superstar roster
that includes three Rolling Stones, two ex-Yardbirds and a former Beatle. Last Man Standing,
due Sept. 26, finds The Killer roaring through 21 classics. Five years in the making and nearly
50 years after disturbing the peace with Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On and Great Balls of Fire,
Lewis, 70, plays piano and belts out retro tunes with Jimmy Page, Bruce Springsteen,
John Fogerty, Mick Jagger, Ron Wood, George Jones and Little Richard. Keith Richards,
B.B. King, Neil Young, Rod Stewart, Eric Clapton, Ringo Starr, Merle Haggard, Willie Nelson
and Buddy Guy also chime in.
TOMMY CASASSA R.I.P.
The Tennesean Nashville Newpaper reported the recent death of Tommy Casassa.
No details, except that others knew he had Cancer.
He's listed among the Rockabilly Hall of Fame legends, but he was much more known as a Music Publisher over the years.
Does anyome have more informarion on Tommy's career? Details on his early recordings.
Rockabilly Artists' Death Reported.
Rec. 7/28/06 - "Hi My father's name is Richard "Rick" Valletta. He was a member of Ricky Coyne
and the Guitar Rockers. In fact, my fathers name appears on the credits of the 45 for
Rollin Pin Mim and I'll Love you Forever.
To make a long story short, my father passed away last week. I dont know how to get ahold of Ricky
Coyne but I wanted to let him know of my father's passing.
Does anyone have any suggestions? I'm also looking for a copy of the album they did. Do you know where I
might find one?
The Guitar Rockers were way before my time, but none the less I'd still like to find an album."
Thanks! Michael, 602-614-7700
DANNY DOLLAR R.I.P.
We make many acquaintances in our lives, and few good friends. All are a
valuable asset to hang onto. Some are extensions of our right arm. Such as
it was with my friend
Danny Dollar. Always "up" always Possitive, always
with that big smile and blue eyes that let you know everything was gonna
be alright. When Dan walked in front of a band, they all perked up because
they knew they were in for a hard ride. Whenever I was fortunate enough
to be on stage with Danny, HE was the star. HE was the one they came to
see. Those Elvis love songs would reach out and touch even the hardest of
hearts, and take us back to a time we all want so much to remember and cherish. Always friendly, always looking out for the other guy, always there
when you just needed a friend. Danny wasn't just there for "Danny Dollar"
but for everyone around him. I was there when Dan accepted Christ - and believe me, he was one proud person. He wanted the world to know what he had done and how it had changed his life.
A fellow member of the Rockabilly Hall of Fame - and a memory etched in stone
in my life that will live as long as I do. I salute my friend that PASSED AWAY early this morning. I salute him and will hold his friendship in my heart.
His picture will remain on my webpage as long as it exists.
Respectfully, Ronnie Haig (7-14-2006) DANNY DOWLER OBITUARY
Daniel N. 'Danny' Dowler (Dollar), 63
JUNE 1, 1943-JULY 14, 2006
Daniel N. "Danny" Dowler, 63, of Nashville, Ind., died at his residence early Friday morning.
Born June 1, 1943, in Indianapolis to the late Donald F. Dowler and Norma E. Jones of Indianapolis.
He was a retired entertainer and a member of the Rockabilly Hall of Fame.
He is survived, in addition to his mother, by his wife, Tony (Morse-Gregg) Dowler of Nashville, IN;
sons, Darren (Dianne) Dowler of Beverly Hills, Calif., Charlie and Uri Stiles of Nashville,
Ind.; grandchildren, Raina Sofia Dowler, Shelby, Hannah and Cory Stiles; brother, Dennis (Linda)
Bond of Franklin; nephews, David (Caren) Bond of Indianapolis and Ryan (Joanna) Bond of Plainfield;
niece, Sherri Hansen of San Diego; and aunt and uncle, Bud and Dorothy Smith of Indianapolis.
A singer/entertainer/songwriter his entire life, he had an angelic voice and was truly the "other"
Elvis. Danny had records out in Daytona and L.A. He is remembered worldwide for his music,
kindness and generosity. Danny loved people and people loved Danny! His sparkling blue eyes,
blond hair and dazzling smile will be remembered by all who knew him - forever. Danny was
officially inducted into the Rockabilly Hall of Fame June 27, 1998.
Danny truly loved his wonderful mother, beloved wife, and his pride and joy were his three sons.
He is preceded in death by one brother, David Dowler, and his step-father, Dee Jones. From Darren, Danny's son:
Hey everybody. Just letting you all know, my beloved
father passed away last night at 3:20 a.m. He left a message for all and sends his
love to all his family, friends and aquaintances. I got to see him and tell him I loved
him, and he I, before he slipped into a coma and then almost a day later passed away.
There is a pretty incredible story involved with his passing which I'll share later.
I've posted an announcement on my website - DarrenDowler.com -
Thanks to all of you for your friendship, support and kindness. -Darren
DAVE RICH TO APPEAR WITH WILLIE NELSON
7-14-06. This is an update! Rockabilly Hall of Fame readers are first to find out!
RHOF inductee Dave Rich will be
appearing with Willie Nelson September 30th on Willie's "Farm Aid"
program. This will be aired nationally and internationally. NICK WILLETT
and the boys knocked 'em dead at the Oneida Casino in Green Bay recently.
Make you plans now for the casino's big Rockin' Fifties Fest III - May 15-20, 2007.
The Rockabilly Hall of Fame® gang will be there ... will you? ROCKABILLY ON LINE. Friday, 5:00 to 7:00 pm. Live streaming audio from
90.1 FM, Kansas City, www.kkfi.org. Audio archives and more at www.kcrockabilly.com.
Contact: Lynne at kcrockabilly@yahoo.com, hepkat@kcrockabilly.com or toodles@kcrockabilly.com.
Also: www.myspace.com/rockabillymoodswing Sun Records rockabilly artist Hayden Thompson will record a new CD for Finnish Bluelight
Records in August 2006. There will be few rockabilly songs on the new album, but most of the
tracks will be country and close to the style of Hayden's 1966 Kapp LP "Here's Hayden Thompson".
More info, press release and song list will follow when the recordings are finished.
Musician Who Pioneered R&B in Detroit R.I.P. JOE WEAVER, one of the key figures of the 1950s Detroit R&B scene, died Monday, July 3, 2006 in
Providence Hospital in Southfield, MI of complications from a stroke. He was 71.
Weaver, pianist and bandleader with his Blue Note Orchestra, was a human thread linking the 1940s
big band era with the '50s R&B era, a musical mix that led directly to Motown.
First, he performed jump blues and jazz in the very early '50s, then throughout that
decade performed as the Fortune Records house band, backing up the Fortune roster,
including Andre Williams and Nolan Strong and the Diablos.
Later, Weaver and his band, the Blue Notes, worked for Berry Gordy Jr., playing on early
Tamla sessions such as "Shop Around" for Smokey Robinson and the Miracles.
A lifelong Detroiter, Weaver was still a student at Northwestern High School when he met
guitar player Johnnie Bassett. With several friends they formed the Blue Notes and
started winning talent shows at the Warfield Theater on Hastings Street.
Despite all his work, in the '60s Weaver packed in the precarious life of a musician to work on a
Ford assembly line for 30 years.
In 2002, Weaver got together with two old friends, Stanley Mitchell of Stanley and the
Hurricanes and solo singer Kenny Martin, both '50s hitmakers out of Detroit, to
form the Motor City Rhythm and Blues Pioneers.
The R&B Pioneers released a self-titled CD that year. In May of this year, in one of
his last public appearances, Weaver was honored at the Detroit Music Awards with a
Distinguished Achievement Award.
HAIL, HAIL
A new one-hour radio special titled "Chuck Berry: Hail, Hail The King of
Rock 'n' Roll" will air between 10.00am-11.00am (Eastern) next Wednesday (July 5th)
on Bob Putignano's popular "Sounds of Blue" radio program on WFDU-FM 89.1 in the
New York tri-state metro area. It will also be available to listeners around
the world via a live stream at the WFDU-FM website located at
http://wfdu.fm/ and
for an additional 7 days after the show has aired at the Live365.com website located at
http://www.live365.com/stations/bob8003.
WORTH A CLICK:MATT LUCAS "Back In The Saddle Again" CD.
WORTH A CLICK:REGGIE YOUNG Memphis R & B to Nashville Studios.
BILLY PRESTON DIES
June 6, 2006 - Billy Preston, who won fame as a joyful singer-songwriter of with Grammy-winning singles
"Outta Space," "Will It Go 'Round In Circles" and "Nothing From Nothing," died in an Arizona
hospital early Tuesday. He was 59. Preston's longtime manager, Joyce Moore, said Preston died at 3:35 a.m. at Scottsdale
Healthcare Shea hospital in Scottsdale. Preston had been in a coma since November in
a care facility and was taken to the hospital Saturday after his condition deteriorated.
Preston, who had battled chronic kidney failure, had undergone a kidney transplant in 2002,
but the kidney failed and he has been on dialysis treatments ever since, Moore said earlier
this year.
Preston was a teen prodigy on the piano and organ, and lent his gospel-tinged touch
to classics such as the Beatles' "Get Back" and the Stones' "Can't You Hear Me Knocking?"
He broke out as a solo artist in the 1970s, winning a best instrumental Grammy in 1973 for
"Outta Space," and scoring other hits with "Will It Go 'Round In Circles," "Nothing From Nothing"
and "With You I'm Born Again," a duet with Syreeta Wright. (AP) Billy Preston's Bio
SKIFFLE MEETS ZYDECO!
Saturday 10 June 2006, 3 Bands - 2 Styles.
East Side Skiffle Group on stage at 7.30pm,
HottBoxx a Midlands based band playing a mix of Zydaco, swamp, blues and
rock 'n' roll (http://www.hottboxx.co.uk) -
Doors open at 7pm, Tickets 10.00 or £8.00 in advance.
Bookings phone Keith Woods on 0208 460 6941.
Venue is the Water Rats Theatre Bar, 328 Grays Inn Road, Kings Cross,
London.
VINCE EAGER GIG!
Saturday, 8 August 2006. The first pure rock 'n' roll gig in forty years from British rock 'n'
roll originator Vince Eager backed by Rockola. Venue is the Water Rats Theatre Bar, 328 Grays
Inn Road, Kings Cross, London, England. In addition, support act and DJ as well plus licensed bar.
Doors open at 7.00 pm.
Tickets are £10.00 in advance or £12.00 on the door. Contact Keith Woods on telephone number
(0)20 8640 6941 for tickets or further information.
FATS DOMINO BOOK
The long awaited book is available ... in stock now according to Amazon.
"Lost Dawn of Rock and Roll" Da Capo Press, 364 pages), by the
Louisiana-based music journalist Rick Coleman.
More about Fats Domino here.
TRAVIS LeDOYT - "LONELY STREET"
Travis first CD of original songs is out and available for purchase.
You may order on line www.travisledoyt.com under merchandise using Paypal if desired.
Audio clips from the CD available on line also. [chuckledoyt@comcast.net]
SONNY WEST LIVE
Here Mark Dillman's [daddyodilly@yahoo.com] photos taken at a rare Sonny West concert May 20, 2006
in Leavenworth, KS. Sonny wrote two of Buddy Holly's biggest hits and made some cool rockabilly
records of his own, all in the famed West Texas style!
View Photos
BILLY WALKER, WIFE, MUSICIANS PERISH IN CAR ACCIDENT.
(5/21/06) Billy Walker, his wife Bettie Walker, musicians Charlie Lilly Jr., and Daniel Patton Sr.,
lost their lives in a one car accident on I-65-11 miles N. of Ft. Deposit, Al.
Injured in the accident was Joshua Brooks who was traveling with the group.
He was taken to an Alabama hospital.
"FREDDIE" Dies in Wales Hospital
Posted May 20, 2006 - Freddie Garrity was famed for his energetic dance moves
Freddie Garrity, the lead singer of the 1960s pop band Freddie and the Dreamers, has died in hospital.
The 69-year-old, originally from Manchester, had been receiving treatment for what were described
as "circulation problems".
He died on Friday at Ysbyty Gwynedd in Bangor, North Wales.
The five-piece band had success in both Britain and the US with hits such as I'm Telling You
Now and You Were Made For Me.
Mr Garrity, who lived in Newcastle-under-Lyme in Staffordshire, was on holiday with his
wife Christine when he was taken to hospital.
A family friend, Eric St John-Foti, said Mr Garrity had been suffering from
circulation problems.
He paid tribute to the star, who was famed for his manic dance routine,
which he called "the Freddie".
URGENT PRAYER REQUEST for DANNY DOLLAR
He needs your spiritual support now.
His condition has advanced to the point he can't talk and can't eat! (only liquids by tube).
No one is allowed to visit him. Thank you, Ronnie and Bob.
APPEARING AT HEMSBY #36, (UK)
Carl Mann, Bobby Crown, Bobby Brown. Photos: Rod Pyke
JERRY LEE LEWIS ON "THE LATE SHOW":
Legendary Rock 'n' Roll icon Jerry Lee Lewis is set to perform his classic hit, "Great Balls of
Fire," on The Late Show with David Letterman this Friday, April 28th. Joining Lewis, who will
be accompanied by Paul Shaffer and members of the Late Show Band, will be guitarist Jimmy
Rip, who produced Lewis' forthcoming CD, "Redemption," along with Steve Bing for Shangri-La
Entertainment, as well as guitarist Kenny Lovelace who has been a member of Lewis' band for
a remarkable 39 years.
The rockabilly legend and first great wild man of rock and roll, who first broke on the
national scene nearly 50 years ago with "Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On," is getting ready
to celebrate his 70th birthday. He is planning a summer release of a new CD,
with appearances by B.B. King, Bruce Springsteen, Mick Jagger, Rod Stewart, Willie Nelson
and other stars.
BONNIE OWENS DIES AT 76
4/24/06 - Just one month after the death of country legend Buck Owens, there comes word that Bonnie
Owens has passed away. The death of Bonnie Owens was reported Monday afternoon by Buck Owen's
Bakersfield Radio Station KUZZ.
She was the wife to both of Bakersfield country legends Buck Owens and Merle Haggard.
Bonnie was born in Oklahoma City and met Buck in a roller rink in Mesa, Ariz. and they were
married in 1948. She was the mother of Buck's two sons, Mike and Buddy Owens. However, the
marriage to Buck did not last and the two divorced.
Like Buck, she was a country singer and after the divorce from Buck, she became closer to
Merle Haggard. The two married in 1965 but that marriage dissolved in 1978.
Family spokesman Jim Shaw said she passed away from complications of Alzheimer's. TRAVIS LeDOYT, is back in the states after his recent UK tour.
COLLINS KIDS ALERT!
The Collins Kids are making a one off UK appearance on Saturday, 2nd
September 2006 at the Bisley Pavilion, The National Shooting Centre, Bisley Camp,
Queens Road, Brookwood, Woking. Tickets are priced at £19.00 in advance or
£23.00 on the door. Support act will be Charlie Thompson and Miss Mary Ann.
Dave Alvin's new studio album is "West of the West"
West of the West is Dave Alvin's tribute to the songs and songwriters of California.
It's the fourth-generation Californian's latest excursion into the sounds and history of
his home state, continuing the high standard he set with King of California and
Blackjack David. Produced by Greg Leisz (Wilco, Lucinda Williams, Beck, Brian Wilson), the new album
mixes much loved songs by Merle Haggard, John Fogerty, Tom Waits, Brian Wilson, Jackson
Browne, Jerry Garcia, Kate Wolf, Robert Hunter and Los Lobos' David Hidalgo and Louis
Perez, with unearthed gems from such previously overlooked talents as Blackie
Farrell and Jim Ringer.
More Information.
Jay Chevalier Song
A Cajun two-step called "Come Back to Louisiana" could be named the state's official hurricane
recovery song, a House panel decided on April 19th.
The song, a remake of a 1963 single by rockabilly singer-songwriter Jay Chevalier,
would commemorate the state's ongoing recovery effort, said Rep. Danny Martiny, the sponsor
of the bill. The measure would also name Chevalier, who continues to perform,
Louisiana's "official state troubadour" for hurricane recovery.
The bill moves to the full House.
CHARLIE GRACIE with EDDIE COCHRAN and the EVERLYS
Charlie pays tribute to his late great buddy, EDDIE COCHRAN in a PBS documentary.
Charlie is scheduled to headline the annual Eddie Cocharan Festival in Chippenham, England this fall
and will dedicate a new outdoor memorial for his late friend.
(photo: Charlie with Eddie (to Charlie's right) - with the Everly's and Don Cherry in Chicago - late 50s)
Here's Charlie Gracie with Johnny Hall (a big RHOF fan and supporter)
at Pennsylvania Music Expo, Lancaster, PA, April 9, 2006
Cleveland's Rock Hall Opens Roy Orbison Exhibit
April 19, 2006 - Roy Orbison! The Wink, Texas native, who grew up in Vernon, Texas, died in 1988
at age 52 of a heart attack, has been a part of the Rock Hall since his induction in 1987.
Orbison was known for his blending rock and country music. The exhibit called "Haunting and
Yearning: The Life and Music of Roy Orbison" offers a glimpse into his rockabilly career
and his personal struggles. The exhibit is not traveling. His widow Barbara Orbison put it
together for the Rock Hall. She came to Cleveland from Nashville for the opening.
The display is coinciding with what would have been Roy Orbison's 70th birthday April 23rd.
RETIREMENT FOR THE LEGENDS OF THE OPRY?
... which would mean no more George Jones, Loretta Lynn, Porter Wagoner, Del McCoury, Billy Walker,
Charlie Louvin, Jimmy Dickens, Jean Shepard, Jeannie Seely, Jan Howard ... and list just goes on.
We love the Grand Ole Opry legends no matter what their age is ... No forced retirement for
Opry legends at 65! Please help us keep the tradition alive and support these legends by signing
the petition at
www.petitionspot.com/petitions/oprylegends.
JOEL MARSHALL SHUMAKER R.I.P.
Joel Marshall Shumaker, 51, of Horn Lake, MS, died
Saturday, April 1, 2006, after a long illness. Joel was best known as
a long time band member with Jerry Lee Lewis. Playing Bass and Guitar, Joel
toured with Lewis for 15 years. "One of the best guitarists", as fans and
friends would say, Joel toured all over the world winning the adoration of
many fans. He leaves a wife, Deborah; one son, Derek of Memphis; one
brother, Terry of MN; and countless friends. He will be missed by everyone
that knew him. He touched many lives while he was with us. The family requests that
memorials be made to The Alpha 1 Foundation, 2937 SW 27th Avenue, Suite 302, Miami,
FL 33133. Twin Oaks Funeral Home 662-349-9720
JAMES MASK R.I.P.
Smithville, Miss., March 26, 2006 - Funeral services were held today for Rockabilly singer James Mask.
Mask died last week at the Gilmore Memorial Hospital in Amory. He was 73. The cause of death was unavailable.
Mask lived in Shannon and spent the past 15 years in Smithville. He performed across the globe, alongside
greats like Johnny Cash, but Mask always kept a fondness for his Mississippi home.
"He loved the people at home in Lee County," said his wife, Susan Mask.
One of his most popular songs was "Beer Drinking Blues" in 1959.
"James sang all his life," his wife said. "He sang country and a little rock.
He really loved to perform and he had a beautiful voice."
FOR SALE - A MEMPHIS MUSIC LANDMARK
World Famous Hernando's Hideaway, 3210 Hernando Road, Memphis, TN. 901-398-7496.
Great commercial investment.
8200 total sq. ft., 1450 sq. ft. 3 br. apartment upstairs. Bar, dance floor, seating for 150 or more.
Kitchen and downstairs, on a 1 acre lot. Motivated seller, bring all offers.
Seller will assist with closing, plus $1000 binus to selling agent.
Contact Carolyn Kent at 901-345-1600 or 901-650-6673. MLS #2614863, $450,000
CHARLIE HODGE, age 71, of Sevierville, TN died Friday March 3, 2006 at Fort Sanders Regional,
Knoxville, Tennessee. Charlie's love of music and comedy led him to a long career of singing
with quartets, one of the first included Bill Gaither and Charlie's own quartet, The Foggy
River Boys. Charlie entered the Army with Elvis Presley and they became good friends.
He worked for Elvis and lived in Graceland for 17 years. After Elvis's death, Charlie
continued to perform in shows dedicated to Elvis's memory. For the past 15 years,
Charlie performed at Memories Theatre in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee and also traveled
the world sharing Elvis stories speaking and performing. He was preceded in death by
his parents, George and Mattie P. Hodge. Survivors: loving wife: Jennifer Hodge;
sister: Margie Poteet; nephew: Lyle Poteet; great niece: Caitlin Poteet and several
cousins; cousin: Sedema Poole. In lieu of flowers the family asks that you make a
donation to your favorite charity in Charlie's memory.
HONKY TONK in NEW YORK CITY
"March 5th (and every first Sunday) it's the Honkytonk Hootenanny at CBs
Gallery (313 Bowery, NYC, 10003, 212-677-0455). From 5-9 pm, it's nothin'
but gin-joint country, bluegrass, rockabilly, and all things Americana. There
will be three hours of open mic, plus the 'Freeform Hootenanny' at 7pm:
Three featured acts, plus one "wildcard" picked from the open mic, round-
robin in a song circle format with a central theme. The features exchange
notes in advance so the stage is set for impromptu leads, harmonies, and
twang-core 'billy madness. The Hootenanny finishes up with the 'Hillbilly
Improv' - all the features join in for a set that's sure to break something. The
theme for March 5th, tying our features and song picks together is 'What
becomes a legend most', and the features will include Seth Kess, yours truly,
and others TBA. For you pickers and guests out there, the details of the night
and format can be found here: Hoot Facts, Fiction & Fliers
http://gregphoenix.net/shows.htm and here:
HonkyHoot at CBGB http://cbgb.com/gallery/0305.jpg - Y'all come on down, hoot and holler, hear?"
Greg Phoenix, Gregphoenix.net, Myspace,com/phoenixgreg
"Walk the Line" Hits Video Tuesday, Feb. 28th.
It will arrive in three different versions: a single-disc widescreen, a full-screen version and
a limited edition two-disc set with lots of bonus features.
The film stars Reese Witherspoon and Joaquin Phoenix as June Carter and Johnny Cash.
Both are nominated for Oscars.
The Walk the Line DVDs, from Fox Home Entertainment, are priced at $29.98 for the widescreen
and full-screen single discs and $39.98 for the two-disc Collector's Edition.
All three versions feature running commentary by director James Mangold, deleted scenes
and the original theatrical trailer.
TRAVIS LeDOYT UK TOUR
"If you never got the chance to see Elvis live, get yourself along to one of the venues on Travis
LeDoyt's debut tour of the UK. Believe me you wont be disappointed I saw Travis a few years
back in Jackson, USA and he blew me and the rest of the audience away. Forget all the other
Elvis impersonators, Travis is the real thing. He has the voice, the looks and all the
movements. D J Fontana says of Travis that it is almost as if you were watching Elvis
back on stage in the fifties.
Some of these shows are already sold out so check with the venues first.
All the details can be found at http://www.jacksonville-americana.piczo.com/?cr=1&rfm=y
and on Travis's own site at http://dickmcvey.com/ScheduleTravis.htm.
I promise you wont be disappointed." -Rod Pyke
BOBBY MOORE P.I.P.
Vocalist Bobby Moore of Bobby Moore and
the Rhythm Aces died in Montgomery,
AL, at age 75, Feb.7th.
Cause od death was kidney failure.
The New Orleans native had Top 40 hits in the mid-1960s with "Searching For My
Love" and "Try My Love Again."
His son, Bobby Moore Jr., has been playing with his father`s group for 40
years and told the newspaper he would continue
to keep the name Bobby Moore alive.
ELVIS NEWS. Preliminary calendar of events for Elvis Week
2007 - 30th Anniversary announced.
Click for more information.
DALE HAWKINS HEALTH UPDATE
Message courtesy: Mikesandy999@aol.com - 2/9/06
"Hello Friends, I left the hospital yesterday after my 4th CHEMO treatment, many
PRAYERS and all the natural nature herbs that GOD led me to take happy. My Doctor went over my
progress sence the operation with a smile. My white blood count was back to normal and all
of the other charts that he showed me were beautiful. I have not had any bad side
effects from the CHEMO. I am starting to get my strength back and my attitude is
still on it's positive KIK-ASS mode. I am continuing with the treatment and with your
prayers & by the grace of GOD will win. Thank You!!" R&R, Dale Hawkins
THE FRANKS ... 60 YEARS!
Tillman and Virginia Franks celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on February 9th.
A family dinner was hosted by their children on February 11, 2006.
Tillman Franks and Virginia Suber were married February 9, 1946 in Shreveport,
where they are lifelong residents, The couple has four children: Darlene Pace of Bossier
City; Carolyn Browning and Ben Franks, both Shreveport; and Rev. Watson Franks
of Vidor, TX. They have eight grandchildren.
DYNAMITE MAGAZINE
issue #46 comes with a 13-track rockin' disc: "CD #01". To find out more about this great German
rock and roll publication, please click on the graphic above.
NARVEL FELTS, RODNEY LAY, DON WILLIAMS.
Narvel along with the Rodney Lay Trio (Rodney Lay, Vernon Sandusky and Ron Lee)
will be in Ft. Smith, Arkansas, February 23rd with Don Williams. This will be the final
tour for Don Williams, Don will retire after this tour. The show will be at the Ft. Smith
Convention Center in downtown Ft. Smith, Arkansas 7:30 pm. For info: warangel1@cox.net
The History Of Country Music Radio program is now available 24
hours per day from Las Vegas. Host, Cowboy Paul Bowman. These shows consist of all the top country
songs from 1920 to 2005 along with bio information and gossip on the artists,
writers and how their songs affected the mood of the nation at the time.
http://kowlasvegas.com/. A New Design for Elvis.com -
Elvis.com's home page has a new look. If you haven't seen it yet, you need to check it out.
And, as always, Elvis.com still has all the Elvis content you need and want so be sure
to continue to enjoy all the features, including Elvis wallpapers, screensavers,
the GracelandCam, e-cards and more.
Johnny Bienstock, Longtime BMI Publisher, Dies at 83.
Johnny Bienstock, a 60-year publishing and record label veteran, died Jan. 20 in Naples, Fla.
The cause was complications from heart disease and a stroke, according to his family. He was 83.
Bienstock, a native of Vienna, Austria, fled to the U.S. with his brother Freddy at the
onset of World War II and later served in the U.S. Army Mountain Division.
He began his music career in 1944 when he and his brother joined the music publishing company
of their cousins Jean and Julian Aberbach, who went on to found Hill & Range
Music. While there, he worked with such BMI songwriters as Ernest Tubb, Eddy Arnold,
Hank Snow and Elvis Presley.
WORTH A CLICK:"FARTHER UP THE ROAD."
Ronnie Hawkins and others made a distinctive home for rock 'n' roll in Northwest Arkansas.
"THE NOTORIOUS BETTIE PAGE" MOVIE
The story of the super successful 1950's pin-up model, Bettie Page, one of the first sex
icons in America, and the target of a major Senate investigation - based on her highly
provocative bondage photos. Release Date: April 14th, 2006 (limited)
Born April 22 1923, in Nashville, TN., the real Bettie Page had a difficult childhood
including a stint in orphanage. But she did well in high school and voted 'Most Likely to Succeed'.
In 1950, while walking along the beach at New York's Coney Island, she was approached by
Jerry Tibbs, a police officer and amateur photographer who put together her first portfolio.
Bettie became an underground sensation and in 1955, became a "Playboy" magazine centerfold.
In 1957, Bettie quit modeling, had a failed marriage, then entered a religious seminary, where
she worked as a Christian missionary. Eventually she was institutionalized for mental problems.
Now in her 80's, Bettie Page lives in southern California, and reportedly has not
received one dime of the hundreds of millions of dollars that has been earned through
the exploitation of her name and image over the past 50 years.
In retrospect, she says, "I wasn't trying to change society, or to be ahead of my time.
I didn't think of myself as liberated and I don't believe that I did anything important.
I was just myself. I didn't know any other way to be ..."
Legendary Shack Shaker Injured
Th' Legendary Shack Shakers guitarist David Lee was injured in a hit-and-run accident on
Tuesday, Jan. 17th as a car ran into him while he was in the midst of a 100-mile bicycle ride.
"I suffered cuts to my face (about 40 stitches worth, split my upper lip in half) and knocked
out two teeth," wrote Lee in a message posted on the band's website. "No broken bones and
the hands are fine."
Perhaps all of Lee's tattoos protected him from more serious injuries, as he expects
to be fully recovered by the time the band begin a short U.S. tour in Nashville,
Tennessee on February 7. That's the same day as the group's Pandelirium album hits
the streets via Yep Roc/Outside. Pandelirium is the Nashville band's third LP,
following 2003's Cockadoodledon't and 2004's Believe.
ANOTHER LANDMARK BITES THE DUST
NASHVILLE, Jan. 19, 2006 - The Nashville recording studio where Elvis Presley cut the RCA hit
Heartbreak Hotel, the King's first breakout hit, is being torn down
to make way for that unmistakable sign of urban progress: A parking
lot. The studio, wedged between Broadway and Demonbreun at 1525 McGavock
St. and purchased by auto-dealership magnate Lee Beaman in 1999, was
the longtime home of the United Methodist Television, Radio and Film
Commission.
During Presley's Heartbreak Hotel session "which lasted only three
hours and took place on Jan. 10, 1956, almost 50 years ago to the
day". Presley also recorded Ray Charles' I Got A Woman, according to
John Rumble, senior historian at the Country Music Hall of Fame and
Museum.
Soul Legend Wilson Pickett Dies At 64
Soul/R&B legend Wilson Pickett died of a heart attack Jan. 19 at a hospital near his Virginia
home, according to a spokesperson. He was 64.
Born in Pratville, Ala., Pickett moved to Detroit as a teen and joined the Falcons,
singing on their 1962 hit "I Found a Love." By 1965, he had signed a solo deal with Atlantic,
scoring a No. 21 pop hit with "In the Midnight Hour," which he co-wrote with legendary
sessions musician Steve Cropper.
A slew of late '60s R&B/soul hits followed, including "Land of 1,000 Dances," "Funky
Broadway," "634-5789," "She's Lookin' Good" and "Mustang Sally." As the '70s dawned,
Pickett scored three consecutive top 20 pop singles with "Engine Number 9," "Don't Let the
Green Grass Fool You" and "Don't Knock My Love Pt. 1."
In all, five of his singles reached No. 1 on the Billboard R&B charts.
He will be buried beside his mother Lena in Louisville, KY.
CHESS RECORDS' HISTORY
The February 2006 issue of the popular UK monthly magazine "Record Collector" (Issue #320),
which went on sale Thursday, January 19th, includes a feature on the history of Chess
Records written by Kingsley Abbott plus an interview with Marshall Chess.
"Record Collector" magazine is the world's leading publication for collectors of rare
records and memorabilia. In the feature, along with Bo Diddley, Chuck Berry, Muddy Waters and Howlin'
Wolfis described as "one of the Big Four of Chess who revolutionised popular music".
Metropolis Publishing's "Record Collector" website:
www.metropolis.co.uk/recordcollector.html
UK "ROCKABILLY RAVE" LINE UP
The Rockabilly Rave is to be held at the Pontins
Leisure Centre, Camber Sands (near Rye) on the south coast of England between 9 and
13 March 2006 is:
Janis Martin
Sonny Burgess
Dave & Deke Combo
Original High Noon
Big Sandy & Flyrite Boys
Neva River Rockets (Russia)
Mad Men (Croatia)
Go Getters
Kim Lenz
Ike & the Capers
Tin Stars
Charlie Thompson & Miss Mary Ann
Mars Attack
Taildraggers
Skiprats
Marti Brom
Two Timin' Three
Infernos
High Voltage
Buzz & The Flyers
Ragtime Wranglers
Ruby Ann
Radio Ramblers
+ Official Ronnie Dawson Tribute
JIMMY KELLY had a hit in 1958: Little Chickie. His band, the Rock-a-Beats
backed him on this hit. It is categorized as Rockabilly.
Courtesy: Rich Miller - richard.miller1@sbcglobal.net
Major Music Endorsement Deal Signed.
Senatobia, MS - January, 9, 2006 - Colonel Robert Morris (Two time hall of fame musician)
signs full endorsement deal with Viper Drums. Colonel Robert has been inducted into the
Rockabilly and Traditional Country Hall Of Fame and is a master drummer.
Viper Drums is a high end custom drum maker located in Denver Colorado.
Colonel Robert & Viper Drums look forward to many years of success together.
Contact Viper Drums at www.viperdrums.com (303) 587-4836, Marketing Director Jeremy Kumpf
LOU RAWLS died of cancer in LA at 72, Friday, January 6, 2005.
The velvet-voiced singer who started as a church choir boy and went on to sell more than 40
million albums and win three Grammys in a career that spanned nearly five decades and a
range of genres, has passed on. Lou died at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, where he was
hospitalized last month for cancer treatment. His wife Nina was at his bedside.
His voice was his inimitable trademark. His debut effort, "Stormy Monday," recorded with
the Les McCann Trio, was the first of 28 albums he made with Capitol.
His 1966 hit, "Love Is a Hurtin' Thing," topped the charts and earned him his first two
Grammy nominations. He received 13 during his career.
Lou also appeared in 18 movies, including "Leaving Las Vegas" and "Blues Brothers 2000,"
and 16 television series, including "Fantasy Island" and "The Fall Guy."
He was diagnosed with lung cancer in December 2004 and brain cancer in May 2005.
The December 2005 issue of AMERICAN MUSIC MAGAZINE features an extensive
article and many photos of Roy Milton. For more information on this great Swedish mazagine,
please e-mail Bo Berglind at
bo@americanmusicmagazine.com.
JAMES CHARLES AUSTIN, JR., 68, of Memphis, died Saturday, December 24, 2005
at Methodist University Hospital after a short battle with lung cancer. Professionally,
he was a singer with the renowned "Platters," having traveled and performed all over
the world. He was predeceased by his parents, Mr. & Mrs. James C. Austin, Sr. He
is survived by his wife, Janet "J.P." Netters-Austin; four daughters, Tonyus Chavers of
Minneapolis, MN, Angela Austin of Jacksonville, FL, Linnea Epstein of Seattle, WA and
Kim Netters of Memphis; three sons, Terry Chavers of Memphis, James L. Netters III of
Las Vegas, NV and Julian Netters, Sr. of Atlanta, GA; four grandchildren; two brothers,
William Austin and Victor Austin, Sr., and three sisters, Aranda Robinson of Detroit, MI,
Violetta Rollins and Vishnu Jennings.
In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to James Austin Benefit Fund, P.O. Box
820905, Memphis, TN 38182. R.S. Lewis & Sons Funeral Home 901-526-3264 BOBBY WAYNE RECORDINGS
CARL PERKINS' SON R.I.P.
November, 2005 - One day after his mother's funeral, Gregory Jay Perkins, 46, died in
Jackson General Hospital after a long battle with cancer. He played
bass guitar in Carl Perkins band from 1976 to 1997. He died November
18. Funeral from Smith Funeral home on the 21. He leaves behind his
wife Dawn of 26 years marriage and a son, Jay Paul, 17. Many people
will remember Gregory Jay Perkins on bass from his many t-v shows and
world tours with his father. He was Carl's youngest son, and he leaves
two brothers, Stan and Steven, and sister Debbie.
Mark W. Winchester, Mark Horn and Chris Casello a/k/a "The Starlighter Drifters,
perform for an upcoming "Rockabilly Radio Show". These programs are hosted and produced
by Billy London and air on WAKM 950 am radio, Franklin, TN, Saturdays, 10:00 AM.
A ROCKABILLY TRIBUTE ON WHEELS
Like the music it represents, the Rockabilly Tribute chopper is as distinctive and stylish as
the artist famous for the blend of sounds that make up Rockabilly. Recently debuted at the
Seminole Hardrock Bike Fest in Tampa, by world renowned bike builder, Alan Bernard of Santiago
Chopper, the chopper is a fusion of what makes Rockabilly one of the oldest forms of Rock-N-Roll.
The bike is also a tribute to the old school "Bobber" popular in the 1950s and 1960s around
the same time Rockabilly was in its heyday. It incorporates details by using parts of a
Grestch Guitar, an old style microphone carburetor and memorabilia from some of the
best performers of the original Rockabilly sound. It captures the attention of a crowd
wherever it goes, winning several "Best in Show" awards, the bike is sure to bring you back.
Santiago Chopper is fast becoming legendary in the US by taking on the biker world by storm
and winning top honors at numerous bike shows including Sturgis and Easyrider shows, respectively.
The Rockabilly Tribute is a fine example of the craftsmanship put into each Santiago Chopper.
Santiago Chopper Specialties and the "Rockabilly Tribute" will be featured at the upcoming
Big Twin West, AMD Pro Show and the Custom Chrome Dealer Show at the Mandalay Bay Hotel
and Casino in Las Vegas Nov. 17 20, 2005. Don't miss the chance to see art in motion.
You can also visit them online at www.SantiagoChopper.com
Hello, my name is Billy Jones and I am writing a book about the rockin clubs
in London in the 1980s. The book has contributions from Tom Ingram, Wanda Feathers, Paul
Roman, Clive Osborne and many many more. If you were on the scene then I would love to hear
your memories and see your photos.
You can join in the discussion at
http://groups.myspace.com/RockabillyUnderground
or http://hometown.aol.com/rockinelectro/.
There is a questionnaire which everyone is welcome to have and return if they wish.
Please participate and get your memories in the book. - Rockinelectro@aol.com
JOHNNY CASH SWEEPSTAKES
Port Halcyon and Legacy Recordings have come together to bring you the opportunity to win an
amazing musical package by entering the Johnny Cash: The Legend Sweepstakes. One (1)
Grand Prize Winner will receive the Johnny Cash - The Legend [4 CD Box Set] and June Carter
Cash Keep On the Sunny Side - June Carter Cash: Her Life In Music CD.
Click here
to view all prizes and enter the sweepstakes. Contest runs until November 30th, 2005.
WORTH A CLICK:Larry DeRieux, 1959 'Chicken Session' gets retired rocker back on stage.
ROBERT GORDON - CHRIS SPEDDING
Following the success of the September '05 tour, we are proud to announce
the fact that the January/February 2006 tour is now almost in place, and the dates
are as follows:
Jan 26 - Tobakken, Esbjerg, Denmark
Jan 27 - Katalin, Uppsala, Sweden
Jan 28 - Mejeriet, Lund, Sweden
Jan 31 - Rock Bottom, Oslo, Norway
Feb 1 - Nevada, Porvoo, Finland
Feb 3 - Hotel Sokos Night Club, Lappeenranta, Finland
Feb 4 - Rockin' Race Jamboree, Torremolinos, Spain
Feb 5 to 9: FRANCE (To be specified later)
Feb 10 - Club Ydrogeios, Thessaloniki, Greece
Feb 11 - Club An, Athens Greece
Bakersfield Country Music Museum 6th Pioneer Reunion
The BCCM has scheduled its 6th Pioneer Reunion on Sunday, November 13, 2005 from 1-6pm.
The event will be held at the Best Western Inn (Sequoia Room) 2620 Buck Owens Blvd-Bakersfield, CA.
The event will feature the ALL STAR BAND featuring Tommy Hays, Jimmy Phillips, Billy Mize &
possibly Lawton Jiles, Cliff Crofford & others. BCCM members free and public $5 donation at the
door. 24/7 Information (661) 366-6003
NEW GENE VINCENT CD
Rockstar just released a CD version of their famous LP "Important Words" published 15 years ago.
The new version includes 12 previously unreleased versions of GENE VINCENT songs. Absolutely
amazing sound and booklet (not like some other English labels).
Included Anna Annabelle, Who's Pushing Your Swing, Gone Gone Gone, The Beginning Of The End,
Where have You Been All Of My Life, Temptation Baby, There I Go Again, Spaceship To Mars,
King Of Fools, You are Still In My Heart (complete unheard versions). A real must.
Available from: Rockstar Records, PO BOX 22, WOODFORD GREEN ESSEX 168 GEH, ENGLAND
Hey BO DIDDLEY fans,
One of the founding fathers of rock & roll, BO DIDDLEY celebrates his 77th birthday
on Friday December 30th and we encourage all his many fans around the world to sign the
BO DIDDLEY-The Originator website Guestbook with your birthday greetings and messages.
As we always do at this time of the year, we are making special arrangements for BO DIDDLEY
to view each and every one of your greetings. This is an opportunity for you to convey your
appreciation and best wishes to one of the undisputed legends of rock & roll and a true
original, on the occasion of his 77th birthday.
Please sign the Guestbook, located at
http://members.tripod.com/~Originator_2/guestbook.html
and show your support for The Originator - BO DIDDLEY. The Home of "THE HAWK" (Ronnie Hawkins) at "Hawkstone Manor" in Lakefield Ontario.
Photo (taken October 5, 2005) courtesy of Matt Lucas.
HEMSBY #35 PHOTOS
These are afew of my photos taken at Hemsby 35.
Andy Anderson is the performer with the white beard.
Pat Cupp is the one with glasses.
Narvel you all know.
Pookie Hudson is the coloured singer.
Andy was performing live. Narvel and Pat Cupp were rehearsing.
More photos to follow soon. Rod - RodPyke@aol.com Rod Pyke's Album: Hemsby 35 (3)
Click on the link to view the 15 pictures in this Album.
As the recipient you can download, re-share and order prints and gifts containing these pictures.
Please do not use the owner's pictures in an unexpected way.
BRANSON SHOW SCHEDULE
"Hi Everyone, This is the completed schedule for our opening on March 17th plus the rest of the year.
It also shows that Gary Lewis and The Playboys will be playing on the Weeks That The COMETS Are OFF.
We hope that EVERYONE OF YOU will come see us and this beautiful
DICK CLARK AMERICAN BANDSTAND THEATRE. You can click on the months individually and
see the names and Times of the SHOWS. We Love You All" - THE COMETS TRAVIS LeDOYT DVD INFORMATION
DEAD MEN WALKING featuring SLIM JIM PHANTOM: TOUR September 2005
Wed 21 House of Blues, Anaheim, California, USA - www.hob.com 714 778 2583
Thur 22 Key Club, Los Angeles, California, USA = www.keyclub.com 310 274 5800
Fri 23 CBGB's, Manhattan, New York, USA - www.cbgb.com 212 982 4052
Sat 24 Downtown, Farmingdale, New York, USA - www.thedowntown.com 516 293 7700
Tue 27 Wulfren Hall, Wolverhampton, UK - www.wolvescivic.co.uk 01902 552121
Wed 28 Central Station, Wrexham, UK - www.centralstation-yales.co.uk 01978 264940
Thur 29 Sugarmill, Stoke on Trent, UK - www.thesugarmill.co.uk 01782 206000
Fri 30 The Loft, Kinloss, UK - www.loftgigs.co.uk 01343 850078 October 2005
Sat 1 Lemon Tree, Aberdeen, UK - www.lemontree.org 01224 642230
Sun 2 King Tuts, Glasgow, UK - www.kingtuts.co.uk 08701 690100
Tue 4 Forum Theatre, Billingham, UK - www.forumtheatrebillingham.co.uk 01642 552663
Wed 5 Boardwalk, Sheffield, UK - www.theboardwalklive.co.uk 0114 2799090
Thur 6 Winter Gardens, Cleethorpes, UK - www.winter-gardens.co.uk 01472 349222
Fri 7 Library Theatre, Darwen, UK - www.darwenlibrarytheatre.com 01254 706006
Sat 8 Library Theatre, Darwen, UK (2nd night) - www.darwenlibrarytheatre.com 01254 706006
Sun 9 Civic Centre, Whitehaven, UK - www.copelandbc.gov.uk 01946 852821
Tue 11 Irish Centre, Leeds, UK - www.theleedsirishcentre.co.uk 0113 2480887
Wed 12 Assembly Rooms, Derby, UK - www.assemblyrooms-derby.co.uk 01332 255800
Thur 13 Arts Centre, Colchester, UK - www.colchesterartscentre.com 01206 500900
Fri 14 Voodoo Lounge, Dublin, Ireland - www.toxicpromotions.net 353 1 8736013
Sat 15 The Platform, Morecambe, UK - www.lancaster.gov.uk 01524 582803
Sun 16 Barracuda, Newquay, UK - www.barracudanewquay.com 01637 875 800
Tue 18 Cox's Yard, Stratford Upon Avon, UK - www.coxsyard.co.uk 01789 404600
Wed 19 Princes Hall, Aldershot, UK - www.princeshall.com 01252 329155
Thur 20 Academy, Birmingham, UK - www.birmingham-academy.co.uk 0870 771 2000
Fri 21 Academy, Liverpool, UK - www.liverpool-academy.co.uk 0870 771 2000
Sat 22 Academy, Manchester, UK - www.manchesteracademy.net 0161 832 1111
Mon 24 Academy, Bristol, UK - www.bristol-academy.co.uk 0870 771 2000
Tue 25 Arts Centre, Swindon, UK - www.swindon.gov.uk/artscentre 01793 614837
Wed 26 Waterfront, Norwich, UK - www.ueaticketbookings.co.uk 01603 508050
Thur 27 Wedgewood Rooms, Portsmouth, UK - www.wedgewood-rooms.co.uk 02392 863911
Fri 28 Beaufort Theatre, Ebbw Vale, UK - www.blaenaugwentvenues.com 01495 350360
Sat 29 Shepherds Bush, London, UK - www.shepherds-bush-empire.co.uk 0870 771 2000
Sun 30 Martlets Hall, Burgess Hill, UK - www.midsussex.gov.uk 01444 242888
Please continue to check in at www.SlimJimPhantom.com for further updates.
WORTH A CLICK:Skinny McGee and his Mayhem Makers, CD Review
Merle Haggard digs the Rockabilly Hall of Fame.
Here's "The Hag" at home, sporting his RHOF cap.
Visit Merle's web site.
Photo: Glenn J. JPogatchnik Master producer Ray Ruff passed away 9-15-05. He was one of the founding partners in
CURB records and produced Donnie Brooks.
He died due to a brain anurisum caused from an attack by his longtime pet mountain lion.
More about Ray. James Inveld and Rosie Flores. It was Rosie's Birthday.
BARCELONA HAYRIDE 2005
Everything is ready for the next BARCELONA HAYRIDE FESTIVAL. There will be release the flyers
released in September. For this year they repeat the venue "Sala Carretera 13", with two rooms:
One with the shows and Djs, the other with stands and Djs. We have a great international line-up
for this year with differents bands and styles. Hope you like it.
INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OF RETROAMERICANA 7th edition
BARCELONA HAYRIDE 2005 - December 2005 8th, 9th,10th & 11th BANDS
CRAZY CAVAN & the RHYTHM ROCKERS (UK)
EDDIE CLENDENING (USA)
THE JIVE ACES (UK)
THE BRICATS (Ger)
THE MEAN DEVILS (POR)
BULLDOG (SP)
RUBY ANN (POR)
THE HILL TOPS (SP)
THE HAYRIDE KINGS (SP)
Djs: Nino(Uk), Alex (Sp), Chino Crazylegs (Sp), Jordi Rockola(Sp), Roll
Over Moreno & Beibi X (Sp), Ruben "Jack the Ripper" (Sp) ... + more.
Venue:CARRETERA 13
Isidre Nonell 9 Badalona - Barcelona SPAIN
Tickets:
Thursday:10,00¥
Friday: 30,00¥
Saturday:30,00¥
Sunday: Free
More info in our website:www.bcnhayride.com
Contact:Kike Hayride
www.myspace.com/kikehayride festival@bcnhayride.com
New contact info for JOHNNY POWERS: (Sept. 15, 2005)
Jet-Eye Music.<
5421 Andrew
Harrsion, MI 48625
jeteyemusic@hotmail.com
WARNER MACK
The following information is in regard to one of country music's
legendary stars, Warner Mack, who is not feeling too well these
days. After making contact with family, I have his address and I am
asking you to continue to pray that Warner will get back on his feet
and keep recording his great music. I have included his address,
and I know that the cards and letters will give him an extra boost
towards his recovery. Thanks to each of you. - billfielding@juno.com
His address is as follows:
Warner Mack
60 Lester Ave., Apt 1447
Nashville, TN 37210
His successes include 40 chart-busting hits, including such greats
as "The Bridge Washed Out," "Talkin' to the Wall," Is it Wrong (for
Loving You)," "Sittin' in an All Night Cafe," "Driftin'
Apart," "After the Lights Go Out," and "It Takes a Lot of Money."
The list goes on and on.
Warner wrote "Is it Wrong (for Loving You)" at the age of 13, after
failed teenage romance. It stayed on the Billboard Magazine's Top
Ten for 36 weeks and is on the album "The 30 Greatest Country
Songs."
Rudy "Mountain Guitar" Thacker R.I.P.
Posted Setember 12, 2005 - Rudy "Mountain Guitar" Thacker passed away in Houston,
Texas, from cancer at age 74. He was a fine guitarist, song writer and singer. His
band "The String Busters" was the staff band some years back at the WWVA Jamboree in
Wheeling. WV. Roy Acuff, Skeeter Davis, Howard Vokes and others recorded his songs.
Rudy wrote and recorded the only tribute song to the late Johnny Horton, titled
"The Ballad of Johnny Horton." Rudy also backed the late Bill Browning on all
of his recordings, including "Dark Hollow." Sympathy cards can be sent to his son:
Randy Thacker, 11018 Maize Lane, Houston, TX 77041. 713-896-7013
Legendary Shack*Shakers to tour Europe with Robert Plant
Nashville-based rockers, th' Legendary Shack*Shakers,
have recently received an invitation from, of all
people, former-Led Zeppelin singer Robert Plant to
open for him and his band, Strange Sensation, across
Europe this fall.
"He called me while I was up visiting my mom,"
Shack*Shakers' frontman/harmonica player Colonel J.D.
Wilkes said.
"She answered and hollered down 'JOOSSHH! Telephone!'
I picked it up and I was talking to the man himself.
She actually has no idea who he is, bless her heart."
Wilkes was personally offered the European bus-tour
(which starts in Paris France at the famous Olympia
Theatre) just a few months after having opened for
Plant at this years' South By Southwest music
conference in Austin Texas. Both bands rely heavily
on blues music, which "makes for a good fit", Wilkes
said. Th' Legendary Shack*Shakers are probably best known
for their gecko-friendly sound heard on a certain,
famous Geico television commercial...the one where the
driver cruises the backroads while wearing sunglasses.
For more information on th' Legendary Shack*Shakers, visit www.theshackshakers.com
The newly-confirmed tourdates are as follows: NOVEMBER 2005
WED 9 - PARIS, FRANCE (OLYMPIA - cap: 2,574)
THU 10 - CAEN, FRANCE (ZENITH - 3,000)
SAT 12 - RENNES, FRANCE (MUSIKALL - 3,000)
SUN 13 - BORDEAUX, FRANCE (LE MEDOQUINE - 2,500)
TUE 15 - TOULOUSE, FRANCE (SALLE DE L'UNION - 2,500)
WED 16 - MARSEILLE, FRANCE (DOCKS DE SUDS - 2,500)
FRI 18 - NICE, FRANCE (NIKAIA - 2,500)
SUN 20 - LYON, FRANCE (TRANSBORDEUR - 1,500)
MON 21 - DIJON, FRANCE (ZENITH - 3,000)
THU 24 - FRANKFURT, GERMANY (JAHRUNDERTHALLE - 4,800)
FRI 25 - MUNICH, GERMANY (TONHALLE - 2,400)
SUN 27 - FLORENCE, ITALY (SASCHALL - 2,500)
TUE 29 - PORDENONE, ITALY (SPORTHALL - 3,500)
WED 30 - MILAN, ITALY (ALCATRAZ - 2,700) DECEMBER 2005
SUN 4 - LONDON, UK (HAMMERSMITH PALAIS - 2,500)
TUE 6 - LONDON, UK (FORUM - 2,000)
WED 7 - LONDON, UK
FRI 9 - DUBLIN, IRELAND (OLYMPIA - 1,600)
SAT 10 - DUBLIN, IRELAND (OLYMPIA - 1,600)
MON 12 - WOLVERHAMPTON, UK (CIVIC - 3,000)
TUE 13 - WOLVERHAMPTON, UK (CIVIC - 3,000)
EVERLY BOX SET TIP
Bear Family is now advertising the Everly Brothers Warner Bros
box-set (7 CD's) on its website, which probably means that the
set is in an advanced stage. Release was originally scheduled
for December, but might be a little earlier now.
http://www.bear-family.de/mailorder/showoneproduct.html?lang=de&p=BCD+16511
WORTH A CLICK:LARRY DOWD:
Rockabilly wonder of the '50s returns to the spotlight after a long gig as a Cherokee plumber
FROM LINDA GAIL LEWIS:
"Hey Everybody, I'm really looking forward to seeing you all at the celebration of
Jerry Lee's birthday in Holland on September 16 !!! We have a lot to
celebrate this year, now that Jerry is finally being recognized for his
great talent. I'm so excited about his new album, and I had tears in my
eyes when I saw him get his award on tv.
I'm ready to rock and I know the band is as well. Come on out and rock
with us. Love To All," Linda Gail
Vassar Clements Dead at Age 77
Vassar Clements was an extraordinary fiddler, a self-taught virtuoso who appeared on more than
2,000 albums and also played viola, cello, bass, mandolin, guitar and tenor banjo.
Clements died Tuesday at his home in Goodlettsville at age 77 after a battle with lung cancer.
Clements, who was born in Kinard, S.C. but grew up in Kissimmee, Fla., began playing as
a seven-year old and never had a formal music lesson in his life. His association with the
legendary Bill Monroe initially established his reputation in bluegrass circles.
His work bridged a variety of styles, including country, jazz, bluegrass, rock 'n' roll and
classical.
Mr. Clements recorded with artists as varied as Johnny Cash, Bonnie Raitt, the Grateful Dead,
Bruce Hornsby, the Byrds, Woody Herman and the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band.
He even once recorded with the Monkees ‹ by happenstance. He was working on a recording
session when someone asked him whether he wanted to stay and play on another one.
"I didn't know until later it was the Monkees," he said.
Vassar had recorded several times at Burns Station Sound,
where the Rockabilly Hall of Fame® office is located.
CHARLIE FEATHERS SONG IN JOHNNY CASH MOVIE
Wanda Feathers informs us that her father's recording of "Defrost Your Heart" is being
used in the new Fox film on Johnny Cash - "I Walk the Line".
Visit Charlies's site: www.charliefeathers.com
DALE HAWKINS NEWS
The Oxford American Southern Music issue is on the stands now!! Fabulous essays on Dale Hawkins,
Elvis, Buddy Holly, Cowboy Jack Clement, Loretta Lynn, Ricky Skaggs, Johnnie Lee Wills,
and many others. Included with the issue is a 29 song CD with a song from each of the
featured artists. Dale Hawkins will perform at the Old State House Museum in Little Rock
Thursday, August 25 at 7:30 for a Launch Party sponsored by the Oxford American and
the Old State Hosue Museum. (Some might remember the Old State House Museum hosted a
marvelous, long-running music exhibit "Gonna Send You Back to Arkansas.") Check Dale's website
for more information: http://www.dalehawkins.com
DRUMMER CARLO LITTLE DIES
It is with great sadness that we have to inform you of the passing of the
legendary drummer Carlo Little. Carlo passed away at 2.05am on the morning
of the 6th August 2005 at St. Claire's Hospice in Jarrow, Tyne & Wear. Carlo
was only 67 years old and had suffered from cancer in the latter part of his
life.
He was best known as the drummer with Screaming Lord Sutch and the Savages
from 1961 to 1970. He started his career with the Rolling Stones before
Charlie Watts joined the band. In 1963 Carlo joined the Cyril Davies group.
He also taught the late Keith Moon of The Who how to play the drums. Carlo
played with numerous bands over the years and had many lifelong friends.
Please read the life story of this legendary drummer on his website at
www.carlolittle.com. We will miss him so much he was a lovely bloke and a
good friend. Our thoughts go out to Iris his wife and his family at this sad
time. - In sympathy, Dell & Karen Richardson (Radio Caroline). On October 4, Sony BMG Strategic Marketing Group will release Hitstory, an 80-track,
three CD set of Elvis's chart hits. Spanning his entire career from 1954's "That's All Right"
to 1976's "Way Down," this deluxe three-disc set combines two landmark collections of Elvis's
indispensable smash hits with a brand new compilation of more essential Top 20 singles.
EDDIE SCHULER Sr. R.I.P.
Founder and owner of Goldband Records, Eddie Shuler Sr. passed away on
Saturday, July 23rd in a a hospital in Atlanta, GA. He was 92.
See: http://www.billybop.be/styles/cajuncorner/cajuncorner.htm
for more information on Eddie.
LONG JOHN BALDRY R.I.P.
VANCOUVER (July 2005) -- Vancouver-based blues legend Long John Baldry has died after a four-month battle
with a chest infection, his agent said Friday on the musician's
website. The 64-year-old musical giant was admitted to the intensive-care unit of a Vancouver
hospital in April after returning from a trip to his native Britain with respiratory problems.
Baldry is credited as one of the main forces in British blues, rock and pop music in the
1960s and first hit the top of the U.K. singles charts in 1967 with Let the Heartaches Begin.
He has released over 40 albums.
Baldry, nicknamed Long John because of his six-foot-seven-inch height, had been living
in Canada for most of the past 25 years.
He has performed and recorded with such top rock 'n' rollers as Rod Stewart,
Elton John, Charlie Watts and Mick Jagger. The Rolling Stones even opened for Baldry
in London during an early performance in the 1960s, before the band became a household name.
The British press reported that Stewart considered Baldry a mentor, and was at his
bedside when he was first admitted to hospital after he fell ill in March. There were reports
Stewart even helped to pay his ailing friend's medical bills.
Baldry claimed blues legends like Big Joe Turner, Muddy Waters and Chuck
Berry as his earliest musical influences.
Adam Spellicy Reports:
(July 23, 2005) - Hi folks, just thought I'd let you all know that my Gene Vincent biopic script
"Race With The Devil" (based on Sue Van Hecke's 2001 biography) won
2nd prize in the 2004 Nashville Screenwriters Conference screenplay
competition.
Since then, it has been sent to around 20 production companies in the
US, and I have garnered a lot of interest in the project from some
very interesting people: actors, directors, producers. There have been
some very positive developments recently, and I'm hoping to post some
more definite and exciting news here soon.
I have been working on this project for 4 years now (14, if you
include the decade I spent dreaming about writing it!).
I'd just like to extend a personal note of thanks to Derek Henderson
for putting me in touch with Sue Van Hecke several years ago - it's
been a very interesting ride so far, and you gave it the initial shove!
You can read about the competition win here:
http://nashscreen.com/nsc/successstories/ - Adam For those of you visiting Bakersfield, here is a current list of nightclubs showcasing
Live Country music:
Ethel's Old Corral Cafe
4310 Alfred Harrell Highway
(661)873-7613
Kern River Belle
100 North Chester Ave.
(661)392-9002
Rockin' Rodeo
3745 Rosedale Hwy
(661)323-6617
Tejon Club
117 El Tejon Ave.
(661)392-1747
Trout's Nightclub
805 North Chester
(661)399-6700
Vinny's Bar
2700 S. Union Ave.
(661)835-7444
SONNY BURGESS' SON
July 18, 2005 - I just got word to day from Sonny Burgess that they have found the body
of his son who drowned the weekend of the fourth.
They had been searching since the 3rd of July. Sonny got the news
after he and I returned from doing a show in London. He alledgely drown
on the 2nd or 3rd of July. He was found in Lake Hamilton near Hot
Springs, Arkansas. I think his burial will be in Newport, Arkansas, his
home town sometime Thursday. Sonny said that he was very thankful for
your prayers. -Billy Lee Riley NEWS REPORT: 7/19/05 - The body of a missing Hot Springs man has been found by construction workers on the shore
of Lake Hamilton. Newport native Payton Burgess, 40, was found yesterday, two weeks after he disappeared and
was presumed drowned. Police say Burgess was driving a party barge on the lake and dropped off a friend
after a fireworks display. Fishermen found the empty barge four hours later, trolling and moving in circles.
Police suspected Burgess fell off the boat and drowned. Divers searched for Burgess, but had no success.
Burgess' body was found a half-mile from the search area.
Burgess is a graduate of Newport High School and the son of Newport-based musician Sonny Burgess,
who gained moderate fame in the fifties as a rockabilly star. www.billsterlingpickin.com
AMERICANA 2005
Go to THE JACKSONVILLE-AMERICANA website to view over one hundred auto pics etc. recently posted.
With another five hundred to go it certainly an eye-opener for those of you who
were there or couldn't attend for what turned out top be the hottest and most successful
event ever. www.jacksonville-americana.piczo.com
CRY-BABY ON DVD
Johnny Depp couldn't have had better initials to star in Cry-Baby, a musical comedy about
greasy-haired punks vs. clean-cut squares in '50s Baltimore. From James Dean to Juvenile
Delinquent, you were a cool cat if you were a JD back then.
The first studio movie from writer-director John Waters, 1990's Cry-Baby is out of print
on VHS and was not available on DVD ‹ until now. Cry-Baby hits stores today in a director's
cut edition.
Extras are minimal but juicy. Besides Waters' commentary, seven minutes of deleted
scenes include a lively battle of the bands and an absurd, smutty photo shoot.
"Cry-Baby"'s documentary about the making of the film includes a couple of interview
segments with D.J. Del Villareal (filmed at VLV two or three years ago).
He also gets thanked in the credits! Way to go, Del!
CHRIS SCRUGGS DOES IT ALL! His new
"Honky Tonkin' Lifestyle" CD doesn't have a clinker on it.
The sound is very refreshing with young Chris (the grandson of
Earl Scruggs) bouncing between rockabilly and honky tonk.
He's on to something! Buy one ... we did.
More info here.
BIG AL DOWNING R.I.P.
From the Big Al Downing website:-
We regret to inform you that on July 4th, 2005 at approx. 6:45pm,
country music legend and Rockabilly Hall of Famer, Big Al Downing,
passed away from complications stemming from Leukemia. Please keep his
family in your prayers. Big Al's music and warm personality shall surely
live on forever! Leslee "Bird" Anderson. just one of the many talented
performers who appeared at David Loehr's 13th Annual Rockabilly
Rebel Weekend (June 23-25) in Indianapolis, IN. Watch for Barry Klein's
RHOF complete review of this event coming soon.
Photo: Dave Hermsen
Leslee "Bird" Anderson. just one of the many talented
performers who appeared at David Loehr's 13th Annual Rockabilly
Rebel Weekend (June 23-25) in Indianapolis, IN. Watch for Barry Klein's
RHOF complete review of this event coming soon.
