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December 31, 2008

2008 Recap: 2008 was the year that Little Walter was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, a Grammy® was awarded to a CD that featured Robert Lockwood, Jr., Pinetop Perkins, Henry Townsend, and Honeyboy Edwards, Cadillac Records (a movie about Chess Records) was released, and a president was elected that had Howlin' Wolf on his IPod! For me personally, this has been another great year of musical growth, recognition, and accomplishment. Though financially hampered at times due to the rough U.S. economy, progress was nonetheless made. I am very grateful for the huge support system around me and the interest and acceptance that my music has been shown. A heartfelt thank you to everyone!

Festivals and great gigs: So many great on-stage moments this year! I did many great shows with The Rhythm Room All-Stars (Big Pete Pearson, Bob Corritore, Chris James, Patrick Rynn, and Brian Fahey), Dave Riley & Bob Corritore, and Tomcat Courtney, which are the three acts who I most regularly work with. Also, some great shows with Louisiana Red, Bob Riedy, Sam Lay, Eddy Clearwater, Tail Dragger, Diunna Greenleaf, Bob Margolin, Johnny Dyer, Paris James, Fiona Boyes, and more. I had some great sit-in moments last year with Billy Flynn, The John Németh Band featuring Junior Watson, Smokin' Joe Kubek Band featuring B'Nois King, Willie "Big Eyes" Smith, Elmore James, Jr., and Rob Stone and the C-Notes. Of course the majority of gigs were at my nightclub and home base, the Rhythm Room; but I also played many festivals and had three European trips this year. To recap some of the gig highlights:

The Rhythm Room All-Stars at the Santa Barbara Blues Society Anniversary Party (March 15, 2008)

Patrick's II in San Diego for a Tomcat Courtney CD release party (March 20, 2008)

The Spring Harp Fest in San Diego doing a killer Chicago blues set with Johnny Dyer (March 21, 2008)

The 25th Annual Gibson Glendale Jazz & Blues Festival with the Dave Riley/Bob Corritore Band (April 13, 2008)

The Blues Music Awards in Tunica, Mississippi appearing in a duet setting with Dave Riley (May 8, 2008)

The 3rd Annual Delta Groove Showcase (a huge and amazing event), in Tunica, Mississippi where The Rhythm Room All-Stars hosted a Blue Witch Records Revue set featuring vocalists Tomcat Courtney, Big Pete Pearson, Dave Riley, and Chris James (May 9, 2008)

The Silver City Blues Festival in Silver City, New Mexico with The Rhythm Room All-Stars (May 24, 2008)

Old Town Artisans in Tucson, with The Rhythm Room All-Stars as part of Jonathan Holden's Rhythm And Roots Concert Series (May 25 and September 9, 2008)

Buddy Guy's Legends in Chicago with Louisiana Red (June 5, 2008)

Reggie's in Chicago with Tail Dragger as part of at the American Blues Legends Management Showcase (June 7, 2008)

Mississippi Valley Blues Festival in Davenport, Iowa with The Rhythm Room All-Stars (July 4, 2008) (thank you, Harry Turner, for this and other bookings)

The Cognac Blues Passions Festival in Cognac, France with Dave Riley and Bob Corritore (July 25 and 26, 2008)

The Down Home Blues Festival at the Rhythm Room with The Rhythm Room All-Stars as the host band plus Tomcat Courtney, Tail Dragger, Eddie Taylor, Jr., and Paris James (August 31, 2008)

A duet set with Fiona Boyes before Elmore James, Jr. with the Cadillac Zack Band; also played the last 2 numbers of the night with Elmore Jr. (September 6, 2008)

Bisbee Blues Festival in Bisbee, AZ with The Rhythm Room All-Stars (September 20, 2008)

The Lahnstein Blues Festival in Lahnstein, Germany with both The Rhythm Room All-Stars and Louisiana Red (September 27, 2008) (Thank you, Volker Albold!)

Quiessence in Phoenix for a sold out show with Big Pete Pearson and Paris James (October 16, 2008)

The Lodge at Geneva Ridge in Lake Geneva Wisconsin, for a Bob Riedy Blues Band reunion show, with Eddy Clearwater, Sam Lay, Gabriel Butterfield, Chris James, and Patrick Rynn (October 30, 31, and November 1, 2008)

The Blues Blast Music Awards at Buddy Guy's Legends in Chicago with Dave Riley (November 2, 2008)

Aula de Cultura de Collblanc in Barcelona, Spain with Dave Riley (December 12, 2008) (Thank you, Vicente "Harmonica" Zumel)

Jazz Cava in Terrassa, Spain with Dave Riley (December 13, 2008) (Thank you, Vicente "Harmonica" Zumel)

Opening for Leon Russell at the Rhythm Room with Dave Riley (December 22, 2008)

Chief Schabuttie Gilliame's induction into the Arizona Blues Hall Of Fame with a wide array of hall of famers performing. Dave Riley and I kicked it hard on a nice band set with Brian Fahey on the drums. Congratulations, Chief! (December 28, 2008)

New Year’s Eve bash with The Rhythm Room All-Stars and special guest Tomcat Courtney

CDs Released: Bob Corritore's harmonica appeared on three CDs this year: Tomcat Courtney/Downsville Blues on Blue Witch Records (produced by Bob), Chris James and Patrick Rynn/Stop And Think About It on Earwig Music (produced by Chris and Patrick), and Louisiana Red/Back To The Black Bayou on the Bluestown Record label (produced by Little Victor).

Recording Sessions: I did some great sessions this year with Big Pete Pearson, Tomcat Courtney, Diunna Greenleaf, Bob Margolin, Tail Dragger, Eddie Taylor, Jr., and Louisiana Red. Special Thanks to Clarke Rigsby of Tempest Recording, John Wroble and Jeff Harris of Porcupine Studios, Dave Shirk of Sonorous Mastering, and Tony Amato of Amato Image Design.

Press and Recognition: Powerblues Charts: Dave Riley and Bob Corritore/Travelin' The Dirt Road was #1 on the Powerblues Charts in January, Tomcat Courtney/Downsville Blues was #2 for July/August, and Chris James and Patrick Rynn/Stop And Think About It was #1 in November. Living Blues Radio Charts: Chris James and Patrick Rynn/Stop And Think About It debuted the Living Blues Radio charts in September at #8, was #6 in October, and #11 in November; Big Pete Pearson's CD, I'm Here Baby on Blue Witch Records, was named among the top 50 blues CDs by Living Blues. Spain's SBB Blues Magazine (Societat de Blues Barcelona)(Hivern 2008 issue), listed Big Pete Pearson/I'm Here Baby on Blue Witch Records as # 6 in the "Top Blues En La FM Estatal" chart.

Interviews: Published Bob Corritore Interviews included BluesWax (click here to see), La Taberna del Blues (Spain) (click here to see), Blog Critics (click here to see) and a cover story in Belgium's Back To The Roots Magazine (click here to see). Radio Interviews: Bob was interviewed by Roy Prescott for his Blues Summit radio show from 93.5 WMWV of Conway, New Hampshire, by David Baerst of the French blues radio show Route 66, by Clarence Stevens of Blues You Can Use of WGVE 88.7 of Gary, Indiana, Robert Barclay, whose blues show Juke Joint airs on WCMU 89.5FM in Mount Pleasant, Michigan, and by Charlie Hussey, host of the Dublin, Ireland blues radio show Blues Train. J.P. Savouyaud of France's Virus De Blues aired a radio show titled Bob Corritore and Friends which featured numerous projects spanning Bob's career. Filmed interviews were conducted by Jeffry Dyson of the Blue Shoe Project about Bob's long friendship with Robert Lockwood, Jr.. Special thanks to the many publications, websites, and radio shows who kept who reviewed, played, and celebrated the music I was a part of and who consistently kept my name out there.

Nominations and Awards: Being recognized for a job well done is always a pleasure; 2008 was a good year and the awards and nominations were many, including:

Bob played harmonica on Pinetop Perkins' On The 88's CD that was up for a Grammy® this year in the Traditional Blues Category.

Dave Riley and Bob Corritore/Travelin' The Dirt Road was nominated for a 2008 Blues Music Award and a 2008 Blues Blast Music Award.

Bob's harmonica was also a part of three other 2008 Blues Music Award nominated releases: Nappy Brown/Long Time Coming on Blind Pig Records (Traditional Blues Album Of The Year), Pinetop Perkins/On The 88's - Live In Chicago on Sagebrush Productions/VizzTone Label Group (Blues DVD), and Various Artists/House Rockin' And Blues Shoutin!: Celebrating 15 Years Of The Rhythm Room on Blue Witch Records (Historical Album Of The Year).

Chris James and Patrick Rynn/Stop And Think About It was nominated for a 2009 Blues Music Award.

Nappy Brown/Long Time Coming won a Living Blues Award for Album Of The Year.

Big Pete Pearson/I'm Here Baby won a 2008 Independent Music Award for "Best Blues Album".

Tomcat Courtney/Downsville Blues was nominated for a 2009 Independent Music Award for "Best Blues Album".

Tomcat Courtney/Downsville Blues was nominated for Best Blues Album by the San Diego Music Awards.

The Rhythm Room All-Stars won a Phoenix New Times Best Of Phoenix Award for Best Blues Jam!

KJZZ won a Phoenix New Times Best Of Phoenix Award for best station for Blues and Jazz.

The Rhythm Room won a Phoenix New Times Best Of Phoenix Award for Blues Venue!

Bob Corritore was awarded an honorary membership in Europe's Collectif des Radios Blues.

Rhythm Room Concert Club: My nightclub presented a wide array of blues shows. National acts and Phoenix-based acts included Janiva Magness, Bill Lupkin, Little Charlie & The Nightcats, Johnny Rawls, The Fremonts, Zac Harmon, Candye Kane, Tomcat Courtney, Louisiana Red, John Németh with Junior Watson, Rod Piazza & The Mighty Flyers, San Pedro Slim, Jackie Payne/Steve Edmondson Band, Sam Lay, Bob Riedy, Tail Dragger, Eddie Taylor, Jr., Johnny Dyer, Long John Hunter, Phillip Walker, Elmore James, Jr. with Cadillac Zack, Doyle Bramhall, Guitar Shorty, Fiona Boyes, Chief Schabuttie Gilliame, Ronnie Baker Brooks, The Insomniacs, Sistah Blue, Patte' Williams, George Bowman, Rocket 88s, Mr. Boogie Woogie with Guitar Ray, Willie "Big Eyes" Smith, Too Slim and the Taildraggers, Tommy Dukes, Hillstomp, Cold Shott and the Hurricane Horns, Samuel James, Hans Olson, Bad News Blues Band, Big Pete Pearson, and of course The Rhythm Room All-Stars. Special thanks to Rhythm Room general manager Mona Watkins and assistant manager Jen Newhouse for holding down the fort while I am out traveling and touring. Thanks also to all the staff and patrons of the Rhythm Room, and to Martin Elmers, Randy Ledbetter, and Melissa Testa from the adjacent Rack Shack Barbeque.

Website: We have greatly expanded the photo section of www.bobcorritore.com as well as adding numerous articles, reviews, links, and our new international section. New photo pages include tribute pages to Tail Dragger, Ike Turner, Johnny Dyer, Robert Nighthawk, Honeyboy Edwards, CD cover art of this year's releases, the 2007 Lucerne Blues Festival, and a look at the work or photo collections of Bob Riedy, Lindsay Shannon, and the amazing André Hobus photo library. Please note also that all past newsletters are archived in the What's New! section of www.BobCorritore.com.

Those Lowdown Blues on KJZZ: It is always my pleasure to be able to share my favorite music with the Phoenix community. With this being the 24th year of the radio show, much of this year was spent going through the archives in preparation for the 25th anniversary CD, which presents historic on-air performances from 1984 through 2008 (click here to see the album artwork of this soon to be released CD). We had great interviews with Bob Porter (a true blues radio icon), John "Johnny D" Dixon (doing our annual look at the 50s and 60s R&B scene of Phoenix), Janiva Magness, Dave Riley, Louisiana Red, Johnny Rawls, Long John Hunter, and others. Special thanks to my KJZZ assistant Jennifer Waters for her invaluable contributions, as well as program director Scott Williams, and retiring station manager Carl Matthusen. Thanks also to Tony Tingle who worked very hard to help the anniversary CD move forward.

Passings: There were many significant losses to the blues world this year. Each person had their own unique contributions to the music we love and will be greatly missed: Uncle Jesse White, Big Joe Turner (a different musician than the famous Atlantic Records vocalist), Bob Enos (of Roomful of Blues), Schoolboy Cleve, Buddy Miles, Jeff Healey, Francis Clay, Calvin Owens, Dillard Crume, Jr., Bill Coday, Lula Reed, Oscar McLollie, Skeeter Brandon, Sean Costello, DC Minner, Danny Rhodes, Chris Gaffney, Jimmy McGriff, Bo Diddley, Chuck Carbo, Jimmy Moore (of the 5 Royales), Isaac Hayes, Alex "Lil’ Bill" Wallace, Lee Young, Jerry Wexler, Maurice Reedus, Hosea Leavy, Phil Guy, Pervis Jackson (of The Spinners), Little Arthur Duncan, Pete Allen, Norman Whitfield, Nappy Brown, Fernest Arceneaux, Earl Palmer, Dee Dee Warwick, Nathaniel Mayer, Levi Stubbs (of The Four Tops), Studs Terkel, Rudy Ray Moore, Mae Mercer, Doris Carr, Robert Lucas, Alice Mae Burnside, Pat Ramsey, Chico Banks, Odetta, Bobbye King, Texas Pete Mayes, Eartha Kitt, and Robert Ward.

The promise of 2009 is great with new releases, gigs and festivals on the schedule, recording sessions, and many other exciting plans. Thanks to all the friends and fans who have shown such support and encouragement. Thanks to great musicians that I have been so privileged to work with. Thanks to the clubs, festivals, and booking agents that believe in me and my musical associates. Thanks to Dale Baich and Beth Lipham of Blue Witch Records, the Phoenix Blues Society, Jerry Del Giudice and Edward Chmelewski from Blind Pig, Scott Cable, the producer of the Nappy Brown/Long Time Coming CD, Michael Frank from Earwig Music, Randy Chortkoff of Delta Groove Productions, Pete Carlson from Sagebrush Productions, Chip Eagle, Richard Rosenblatt and Bob Margolin from the VizzTone Label Group, Jostein Forsberg from Bluestown Records, and Little Victor for including me on his Louisiana Red production. Thanks to Bill and Sheila Wax, Illinois Blues, and The Blues Foundation. Thanks to Scott Dirks for all the valuable work he does behind the scenes in the blues. Special thanks also to photographers David Blake, Jen Taylor and Scott Allen of Vivid Pix, Aigars Lapsa, Dragan Tasic, Sylvia Pitcher, Daniel Swadener, Art Tipaldi, David Horwitz, Nena Anderson, Tony Tomlinson (of The Fremonts), Donovan Allen, Dusty Blues, Jef Jaisun, The André Hobus Library, Jim O'Neal, and many others, too numerous to name, whose great images were featured on CDs and the website. Thanks to the writers and publications who covered my work in the blues. Thanks to my lovely Kim Danielson who stands by my side through it all. A heartfelt thank you to everyone.

-Bob Corritore

December 26, 2008

Chief Schabuttie Gilliame to be Inducted in the Arizona Blues Hall Of Fame on Sunday: Though not a household name in the blues, Chief Schabuttie Gilliame is an amazing blues singer who has been performing in the Phoenix area since the 1970s, Chief's CD, Snakes Crawls at Night on the Random Chance record label, has received worldwide acclaim (click here to see some reviews). The Arizona Blues Hall Of Fame will honor singer Chief Schabuttie Gilliame this Sunday at the Rhythm Room. A who's who of Arizona Blues legends will be on hand Sunday night to honor Chief Schabuttie Gilliame as he becomes one of the newest members of the Arizona Blues Hall Of Fame. Chief will appear on this night backed by Nightshift, who is his regular working band. Also appearing will be George Bowman, Hans Olson, Chuck Hall, Rocket 88s, Tommy Dukes, Rochelle Raya, Nancy D'Alessandro, Mario Moreno, Johnny Rapp, Brian Fahey, Margo Reed, Matt Roe, Jim Dorholt, and Bob Corritore. The Rhythm Room is located at 1019 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix, AZ 85014. Doors will open at 6pm, with music starting at 7pm; a $5 suggested donation is asked. Proceeds go to ABHOF, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. This event is co-Sponsored by Fender and the Phoenix Blues Society. Rack Shack Barbeque will be available at this event. This night will be a patio smoking only event; no indoor smoking will be permitted. Congratulations, Chief!
Dave Riley and Bob Corritore Appear Tuesday at the Rhythm Room! The Mississippi-meets-Chicago juke joint duo of Dave Riley and Bob Corritore bring their celebrated sound to the Rhythm Room this Tuesday, December 30, 2008 for an intimate show. The Rhythm Room is located at 1019 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix, AZ 85014. Doors open at 7pm, cover charge is $5. This night will be a patio smoking only event; no indoor smoking will be permitted.
Rhythm Room All-Stars with Special Guest Set by Tomcat Courtney to Play New Year's Eve at the Rhythm Room: Bring in the New Year with a night of real deal blues. The Rhythm Room All-Stars feature the stellar line-up of Big Pete Pearson, Bob Corritore, Chris James, Patrick Rynn, and Brian Fahey. Look for alternating sets featuring frontmen Big Pete Pearson, Chris James, and special guest Tomcat Courtney. Powerful stuff! The Rhythm Room is located at 1019 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix, AZ 85014. Doors open at 8pm, cover charge is $15 (includes champagne toast and party favors at midnight). Rack Shack Barbeque (including black-eyed peas, a traditional New Year's treat) will be available at this event. This night will be a patio smoking only event; no indoor smoking will be permitted.
Unissued Little Walter to be Included in the New Little Walter Box Set! Scott Dirks has confirmed that some of the previously unreleased material that he heard while researching the book Blues With A Feeling: The Little Walter Story will be included in the upcoming Complete Little Walter box set, which is currently expected to be released in March by Hip-O Select.
Walter Davis Tribute Album in the Works: Billy Boy Arnold recently gave Bob Corritore a listen to a number of tracks he recorded for pianist Christian Rannenberg, who is producing a loving tribute to the great Walter Davis. Davis was very popular in the 40s for his brooding, moody style, and this CD hopes to revitalize an interest in this great artist. Billy Boy's song contributions are nothing short of breathtaking, and lead to an inquiry to Christian about this new project. Christian reports he has also recorded Charlie Musselwhite and Jimmy McCracklin as part of this noble tribute. Thank you, Christian, for keeping this flame alive.
RIP Robert Ward 10/15/1938-12/25/2008: Robert Ward was one of soul music's greatest guitarists. Known as "The King of the Magnatone" for his wild use of that amplifier's exaggerated tremolo sound, Ward made his mark in the 1960s cutting spectacular sides with The Falcons, which also featured a young Wilson Pickett on lead vocals. It was his trademark guitar that was an integral part of The Falcons' classic song "I Found A Love". Ward was a founding member of The Ohio Untouchables, who later became The Ohio Players. Ward's guitar style was credited as a huge influence on guitarist Lonnie Mack. He would do session work for Motown Records in the 1970s, where he recorded sides with The Temptations and The Undisputed Truth. He resurfaced as a star in his own right in 1991, with the brilliant album Fear No Evil on the Black Top record label. He recorded subsequent albums for the Black Top and Delmark labels, before suffering a heart attack in 2000, which led a spiraling trend of health problems. He passed away on Christmas day at age 70. Robert Ward was an unmistakably talented musician whose recordings will live on forever as great works.

RIP Eartha Kitt 1/17/1927-12/25/2008: Though not really known as a blues performer, Eartha Kitt did record some spectacular R&B material during the 1950s for the Groove Record Label, and of course, her spectacular "Santa Baby" will live on through the ages. She is best remembered in her acting role as “Catwoman” on the televised Batman TV series of the 1960s. Click here to read her obituary from the New York Times. To see a great video of Eartha and Nat King Cole performing “Careless Love” together from the movie St. Louis Blues (about W.C. Handy), click here; and from the same movie, Eartha singing “Yellow Dog Blues”, click here. For a nice clip of a fur-clad Eartha singing her hit “Santa Baby”, click here. We will miss you, Eartha.

December 19, 2008

Dave Riley & Bob Corritore Opening for Leon Russell this Monday: Dave has just arrived in Phoenix for his annual winter stay, and he and Bob will open for the legendary Leon Russell for a special show on Monday, December 22 at the Rhythm Room. This show is very close to being sold out at this point, but a few tickets are still available through Ticketmaster or at the Rhythm Room. The Rhythm Room is located at 1019 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix, AZ 85014. Doors open at 7pm. Tickets are $31 in advance or $33 on the day of the show; advance tickets are available at the Rhythm Room, all Ticketmaster store locations, Charge by Phone: (800)745-3000, or Ticketmaster.com. Rack Shack Barbeque will be available at this event. This night will be a patio smoking only event; no indoor smoking will be permitted.
Rod Piazza & The Mighty Flyers appear Saturday at the Rhythm Room: Rod Piazza, the king of West Coast harmonica, brings his groovin' blues band to the Rhythm Room this Saturday. The Rhythm Room is located at 1019 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix, AZ 85014. Doors open at 8pm, Tickets are $15 in advance or $15 on the day of the show; advance tickets are available at the Rhythm Room, all Ticketmaster store locations, Charge by Phone: (800)745-3000, or Ticketmaster.com. Rack Shack Barbeque will be available at this event. This night will be a patio smoking only event; no indoor smoking will be permitted.
BMA Nominations Announced - Chris James & Patrick Rynn CD Nominated! Congratulations to all of the nominees for the 2009 Blues Music Awards. These awards (formerly known as Handy Awards) are presented by The Blues Foundation, and feature 26 categories with five or six nominees in each category. The event tales place May 7, 2009 at the Cook Convention Center in Memphis, Tennessee, and will feature performances by many of the nominees in between awards presentations. We are very proud that Chris James and Patrick Rynn's CD Stop And Think About It on Earwig Music have been nominated in the category of Best New Artist Debut. So many of our friends are in the running, and we are very happy for everyone. To read more about this event, click here; and for the full list of nominees, click here.
RIP Texas Pete Mayes – 3/21/1938-12/16/2008: Texas Blues guitar great Texas Pete Mayes passed away Tuesday after a long fight with heart troubles and diabetes that left him unable to play in his last years. He was 70. Mayes was born in the small Texas town of Double Bayou, where he took up guitar at an early age after being inspired by the music of T-Bone Walker and Lightnin' Hopkins. He moved to Houston in 1960, where he was based for the rest of his life. He performed in the bands of Junior Parker and Bill Doggett before fronting his own band, the Houserockers, which he kept going for over 40 years. Mayes made a handful of well-respected recordings that are definitive of Texas Blues guitar. His song “Lowdown Feelin'” was recently covered by The Mannish Boys, and is the title track of their latest CD. For more information of this great bluesman's life and passing, click here.
RIP Bobbye King – 2/12/1954-12/5/2008: Birmingham, Alabama born blues singer, Bobbye A. King Beavers, AKA Bobbye King, is not a well-known name in the blues, but she was considered to be "the Queen of the Peoria, Illinois blues scene". She passed away on December 6, 2008 at age 54. She brought great joy to her community. To read more about her life in the blues, click here and here.
André Hobus Photo Library, Part 1: The amazing blues photos of the André Hobus Library have been added to the photo section of www.bobcorritore.com. The André Hobus Photo Library features images taken by photographers Bob Vanderschueren, Claude Meyer, Annique Massange, André Hobus, and Marc De Jonghe. Included in the images posted are Eddie Taylor, Jimmy Rogers, Junior Wells, Buddy and Phil Guy, Lowell Fulson, Robert Lockwood, Jr., Johnny Shines, Big John Wrencher, Louisiana Red, Homesick James, Snooky Pryor, B.B. King, Lightnin' Slim, Billy Boy Arnold, Lonnie Brooks, Otis Rush, Dr. Ross, Dave Myers, Freddy Below, Louis Myers, Koko Taylor, Eddie "Cleanhead" Vinson, Fenton Robinson, Etta James, Freddie King, and many others. There are many more photos yet to be posted, so a part 2 will be added to the website at a future date. To view the posted pages click here; then follow the “next page” links at the bottom of the page to view all 14 pages.
Thank you, Spain! Dave Riley and Bob Corritore had a wonderful time performing in Spain last week. Special Thanks to Vicente and Roser Zumel and the Societat de Blues Barcelona for their warm hospitality, and for some wonderful gigs at beautiful venues. Barcelona is an amazing, upbeat city with spectacular architecture and fantastic food. It seems that wherever we go in the world, we meet with blues lovers and are drawn together by our common bond. We are reminded of the universal appeal of this music. We also had the opportunity to enjoy Barcelona's top blues and roots record store, Disco 100, which featured an amazing blues selection and showed a real commitment to the music. Thanks to our new friend Felix Slim who opened Friday's show, and whom we went to see on our last night in town at his gig at the Honky Tonk Blues Bar (owned by harmonica player Blas Picón). It was also great to meet many other blues musicians and blues enthusiasts from Barcelona including Lluís Souto (harp player with The King Revelers), The Suitcase Brothers, Ron Burke, Ana Piana, Francesc Fernandez, Pedro Aguilar and his young harp playing son Daniel Aguilar, and others!
Cadillac Records Reflection: The long-anticipated movie Cadillac Records made its debut a couple of weeks ago to great fanfare and mixed reactions. It is the story of Chess Records, and some of the artists who made the label famous (Muddy Waters, Little Walter, Etta James, Howlin' Wolf, Willie Dixon, and Chuck Berry). The movie was a major production filled with much star power (Beyoncé, Jeffrey Wright, Adrien Brody, Cedric The Entertainer, Mos Def, and others). Though great liberties were taken with the historical facts, the movie presented an entertaining tale of some beloved characters in the blues. Those of us that know the actual history will have many "gulp" moments -- as we bust the flick for its inaccuracies-- but the movie does present a captivating story that will surely bring a new audience to this music. It is also successful in its use of great musicians for the soundtrack (Kim Wilson, Billy Flynn, Eddie Taylor, Jr., Larry Taylor, and Barrelhouse Chuck). Already, sales of the original Chess recordings by Muddy, Wolf, Etta, Chuck, and Little Walter have been boosted. A complete Little Walter collection on Hip-O Select is planned as a direct tie-in with the film. Hopes abound that Cadillac Records will bring a new generation of people into an awareness of this precious musical form and one of the greatest blues labels of all time.
Bob’s Annual Christmas Blues Radio Special this Sunday: Tune in to KJZZ this Sunday for Bob's radio show, Those Lowdown Blues, as he features his annual Christmas blues special. Bob will spin a full 5 hours of Christmas blues, soul and doo-wop. Bob's radio show can heard in Phoenix each Sunday night from 6 to 11pm at 91.5FM, or on 89.5 in Cottonwood, 98.9 in Tucson, and 99.1 in Kingman. It can be heard anywhere in the world (real-time) via online streaming at www.kjzz.org. To get you in the holiday spirit here is a video of a live performance from 1982 of Charles Brown performing his hit "Merry Christmas Baby"; click here to see.

December 10, 2008

Off to Spain! Dave Riley and Bob Corritore head to Spain for shows this weekend in Barcelona. They will appear on Friday, December 12, 2008 at a venue called Aula de Cultura de Collblanc in Barcelona, and on Saturday, December 13, 2008 at Jazz Cava de Terrassa. Special thanks to promoter/harmonica player/blues radio show host Vicente "Harmonica" Zumel for organizing these shows. To see the ad for Friday's show, click here, and for Saturday's show, click here.
Candye Kane at the Rhythm Room this Saturday: Candye Kane will play a show this Saturday, December 14, 2008 at the Rhythm Room. This is her first Phoenix appearance since her cancer surgery, and she victoriously returns. To read Candye's latest press release including an update on her recovery, click here. The Rhythm Room is located at 1019 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix, AZ 85014. Doors open at 8pm, cover charge is $12. Rack Shack Barbeque will be available at this event. This night will be a patio smoking only event; no indoor smoking will be permitted.
Podcast of Bob Corritore interview for French radio show Route 66 now online: David Baerst of the radio show Route 66 of Colmar, France, 103.5FM interviewed Bob Corritore in July after his set with Dave Riley at the Cognac Blues Festival. To hear a podcast of this program (complete with French translation), click here and scroll to the September 17, 2008 show link. Thanks, David!
Podcast of Tomcat Courtney on A1 Artist Spotlight: After interviewing Chris James and Patrick Rynn, the interviewer (Mark Wade) heard numerous references to Chris's teacher, Tomcat Courtney. This created a curiosity that lead to an interview podcast of Tomcat featuring music from his Blue Witch CD, Downsville Blues. Check out this great podcast by clicking here.
Dave Riley And Bob Corritore Recent Press and Acknowledgements: Thanks to "Hairy Larry" Heyl for the commentary and video posting on Daily Kos. Click here to see. Also, thanks to Wisconsin's WOJB for featuring the song "Overalls" in their Americana show. To see this playlist, click here.
New Reviews! Broadcasting The Blues was reviewed by Jean Luc Vabres in Juke Joint Blues And Soul. To see this review, click here. Tomcat Courtney/Downsville Blues was reviewed in La Hora Del Blues by Vicente "Harmonica" Zumel, and in A1 Artist Spotlight by A1 Mark. To read these reviews, click here. Dave Riley and Bob Corritore/Travelin' The Dirt Road reviewed in Natchel’ Blues Network by Jackie Merritt. To see this review, click here. Chris James and Patrick Rynn/Stop And Think About It was reviewed in the Washington Blues Society Newsletter by Malcolm Kennedy. To see this review, click here.
Grammy® Nominations Announced: Here are the blues nominations: Best Traditional Blues Album: Elvin Bishop/The Blues Roll On (Delta Groove), Buddy Guy/Skin Deep (Silvertone), John Lee Hooker, Jr./All Odds Against Me (Steppin' Stone Records), B.B. King/One Kind Favor (Geffen), Pinetop Perkins/Pinetop Perkins And Friends (Stoneagle Music/Telarc), Best Contemporary Blues Album: Marcia Ball/Peace, Love & BBQ (Alligator), Solomon Burke/Like A Fire (Shout! Factory), Dr. John/City That Care Forgot (429 Records), Taj Mahal/Maestro (Heads Up), Irma Thomas/Simply Grand (Rounder). Congratulations to the nominees!
Rhythm Room All-Stars with Special Guest Set by Tomcat Courtney to Play New Year's Eve at the Rhythm Room: Bring in the New Year with a night of real deal blues. The Rhythm Room All-Stars feature the stellar line-up of Big Pete Pearson, Bob Corritore, Chris James, Patrick Rynn, and Brian Fahey. Look for alternating sets featuring frontmen Big Pete Pearson, Chris James, and special guest Tomcat Courtney. Powerful stuff! The Rhythm Room is located at 1019 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix, AZ 85014. Doors open at 8pm, cover charge is $15 (includes champagne toast and party favors at midnight). Rack Shack Barbeque will be available at this event. This night will be a patio smoking only event; no indoor smoking will be permitted.

December 3, 2008

More Info on Chico Banks: News has come in Chico Banks apparently died just today Word from Katherine Davis via Chris James is that Chico was pronounced brain dead yesterday and died this afternoon. Apparently yesterday's word around Chicago of Chico's passing was premature, but was nonetheless circulating throughout the city. After receiving Michael Freeman's notification, we did a web search and found other listings of Chico's passing before we published our newsletter notification. We apologize for our part in spreading inaccurate news on such a hurtful subject. We just pass on what information comes to us and we always list our sources. Let's hope that Chico is at peace now, and that those of us who cared about him can heal and focus on celebrating his life's contributions. Rest in peace, Chico Banks.

December 3, 2008

RIP Odetta 12/31/1930-12/2/2008: It is with great sadness that we write about the passing of Odetta Holmes. Known in the circles of blues, spirituals, and folk, as well as being a beacon for the civil rights movement, Odetta was one of the most memorable musical personalities to emerge from the 1960s. She died of a heart attack on December 2, 2008 after being hospitalized for kidney failure. She was 77. Odetta was born on December 31, 1930, and at age 3, she moved to Los Angeles with her mother where she started singing and playing guitar. She earned a music degree from Los Angeles City College, focusing on musicals and classical, but her real love was the expressiveness of folk songs and spirituals. While working in the West Coast theater circuit, she found her way to the then emerging San Francisco folk scene, where she felt right at home. She made her first record, Odetta Sings Ballads & Blues, of which Bob Dylan stated in a 1978 interview with Playboy, was "The first thing that turned me on to folk singing". She recorded several albums during the 1960s, and became perhaps the most prominent musical voice in the civil rights movement, highlighted by a famous performance of the song "Oh Freedom" at the August 1963 March On Washington. She married three times, with one of her husbands being Louisiana Red, whom she wed in 1977. In recent years, her career was revitalized by her recorded work with Mark Carpentieri's MC Records. She recorded three CDs for MC, which earned her a W.C. Handy Award nomination (now called Blues Music Awards) and two Grammy® nominations. In 1999, Odetta was awarded the National Medal of the Arts and Humanities by President Clinton. In 2003, the Library Of Congress presented her with a Living Legend Award. She was a great musician and a kind and insightful person with a purposefulness to all her actions. God bless Odetta. To see a brief clip of her performing at Newport during the 1960s, click here, and to see a beautiful gospel duet with Tennessee Ernie Ford performing "What A Friend We Have In Jesus", click here.

December 2, 2008

RIP Chico Banks: Word just came to us from Michael Freeman of Coachouse Industries that the young Chicago blues guitarist Vernon "Chico" Banks passed on December 2, 2008. He was 47. He was the son of legendary guitarist Jesse Banks (of The Mighty Clouds Of Joy), and he represented a younger generation in the Chicago Blues scene that mixed elements of rock and funk into the blues. He has performed and/or recorded with Willie Kent, James Cotton, Mavis and Pops Staples, Little Milton, Magic Slim, Big Time Sarah, Buddy Guy, Melvin Taylor, Freddie Roulette, Otis Clay, and others, as well as being a star in his own right. A popular hometown attraction with an international reputation, Chico will be greatly missed. There was no additional information available at the time of this writing.

December 1, 2008

Rhythm Room All-Stars Perform at their Home Base this Weekend: This weekend, The Rhythm Room All-Stars (Big Pete Pearson, Bob Corritore, Chris James, Patrick Rynn, and Brian Fahey) play the blues at their home base. This world renown blues band will perform their special brand of houserockin’, Chicago Blues on Friday and Saturday, December 5 and 6, 2008 at the Rhythm Room, 1019 E. Indian School Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85014. Doors open at 8pm, cover is $7, and Rack Shack Barbeque will be for sale.
Cadillac Records Opens in Theatres this Friday! New Clips from the film: Cadillac Records is a star studded, major motion picture portraying the rise of the famed Chess Records. This movie will be out in theatres this Friday, December 5, 2008. Here is a glimpse of what we can expect from the movie: this clip depicts Muddy Waters (played by Jeffrey Wright) and Little Walter (Columbus Short) recording “Forty Days And Forty Nights” with Leonard Chess (Adrien Brody) in the control booth of the studio. To see this scene, click here. Here is another scene portraying Etta James in the session that created the song "All I Could Do Is Cry", referred to as "Church Bells" in this video title (click here to see). Here is a sizzle preview of the movie complete with interviews (click here to see).
A Second Film about Chess Records Forthcoming: It is hard to believe, but apparently a second film on the famed Chess Records is in production. It is called Who Do You Love, and it apparently focuses on Leonard Chess, Bo Diddley, Muddy Waters, and Willie Dixon. To read a short summary on this movie, click here.
Dave Riley and Bob Corritore to Perform in Spain Next Week! Dave and Bob bring their rowdy brand of Delta-meets-Chicago blues to Spain next week. They will appear on Friday, December 12, 2008 at a venue called Aula de Cultura de Collblanc in Barcelona, and on Saturday, December 13, 2008 at Jazz Cava de Terrassa, Terrassa, Spain. Special thanks to promoter/harmonica player/blues radio show host Vicente "Harmonica" Zumel for setting up these shows. To see the ad for Friday's show, click here, and for Saturday's show, click here.
Bob Corritore Interview with Spain's La Taberna del Blues: Check out Bob Corritore's interview just posted on La Taberna del Blues. La Taberna del Blues is Spain's top blues website, and is run by Chema Nuñez, Alejandro Pulido, and Mabel G. Bolaño (AKA LadyBlues). To see the La Taberna del Blues website, click here, and to see this interview, click here. Thanks, La Taberna del Blues!
2009 Ponderosa Stomp Partial Lineup Announced: Dr. Ike reports that "The 2009 Ponderosa Stomp will take place on April 28 and 29, 2009 at the House Of Blues in New Orleans. Details of the stomp lineup and conference are taking shape. Here's a partial list of who will be playing the Stomp: Otis Clay and the Hi Rhythm Section, Lazy Lester, Jerry McCain, Long John Hunter, L.C. Ulmer, James Blood Ulmer, Texas Johnny Brown, Ray Sharpe, Little Joe Washington, Lil Greenwood, Classie Ballou, Lil' Buck Sinegal & the Top Cats, and Little Willie Littlefield". This gathering always lovingly gathers the legends of American roots music, and presents them in a sympathetic way to bring out the vintage sound that made them famous. Though Ike just mentioned the lineup's blues performers, the Ponderosa Stomp will also feature other roots music, including early rock and roll and rockabilly. To see the Ponderosa Stomp website, click here.
New Reviews of Broadcasting The Blues, Chris and Patrick, Tomcat, Dave and Bob CDs! Broadcasting The Blues, a compilation of on air radio performances celebrating the forthcoming 25 year anniversary of Bob Corritore's radio show, has received its first review courtesy of Rob Lehrian and Rob's Blues Blog on MySpace! This CD will be released in January of 2009. To see this review, click here. Nine new reviews of Chris James and Patrick Rynn ’s new release Stop And Think About It on Earwig Music have just come in, and are posted on the Blue Four website; click here to see them. Also, Tomcat Courtney/Downsville Blues, and Dave Riley and Bob Corritore/Travelin' The Dirt Road, both on Blue Witch Records, have each recently received new reviews. To see Tomcat's new review in Albany, New York's Times Union, click here, and to view Dave and Bob's new review in Juke Joint Soul, click here. Thanks to all the reviewers for covering these great releases.
The Blue Shoe Project Launches a Campaign to have Honeyboy Edwards and Pinetop Perkins Play the Presidential Inauguration: The Blue Shoe Project, headed by the father/son team of Jeffry and Mike Dyson, is an educational organization dedicated to bringing the elder tradition of blues into the lives of school-aged children. Though many other noble organizations also work in unison for this cause, it could be said that nobody has done it with a higher profile than Blue Shoe. Their latest effort is aimed at getting the two oldest surviving bluesmen, Honeyboy Edwards and Pinetop Perkins, the chance to perform at Obama’s inaugural ball. They have created a very entertaining video to promote this cause. To see the clip, click here. To read more about the Blue Shoe Project and to see their website, click here.

November 24, 2008

Complete Little Walter Box Set Being Considered by Hip-O Select! Scott Dirks reports that he and his co-authors of the Little Walter biography Blues With A Feeling: The Little Walter Story, Ward Gaines and Tony Glover, are working on liner notes for a proposed Complete Little Walter Box Set by the Hip-O Select label in the near future, with the hope of capitalizing on the upcoming film Cadillac Records, in which the Little Walter character is featured prominently. The box would contain material that Little Walter recorded for the famed Chess Records. The official word is not out yet so we can only be hopeful. More information forthcoming as it becomes available.
Chris James/Patrick Rynn CD is #1 in the Powerblues Radio Charts! Powerblues is a European blues radio chart based in France that reflects airplay of new releases. This month the #1 record is Chris James & Patrick Rynn/Stop And Think About It on the Earwig Music label. To see this chart, click here. This is yet another nod to add to the long list for this highly regarded CD.
Tomcat Courtney's 80th Birthday Party Announced: Tomcat Courtney has been San Diego's hidden blues secret until earlier this year when Blue Witch Records released Tomcat's CD Downsville Blues to international critical acclaim. Tomcat's down home blues style is completely distinctive while recalling the flavor of Texas blues greats Lightnin' Hopkins, Lil' Son Jackson, and Smokey Hogg, all of whom he knew and played with. Michael Kinsman, the president of Blues Lovers United of San Diego, has put together a birthday party and celebration to honor Tomcat on Friday, January 30, 2009 at Humphrey's in San Diego. Details are still coming in on the show; so far, Chris James, Patrick Rynn, and Bob Corritore will be there to perform behind Tomcat along with other artists and bands. Tomcat Courtney's CD Downsville Blues is up for an Independent Music Award. Please consider supporting this great blues veteran with your vote by clicking here.
Phoenix Blues Society Announces Blues Blast Festival Lineup; Bob Corritore Included in Phoenix All-Star Set: The Phoenix Blues Society will celebrate its 20th anniversary with the annual festival called Blues Blast (not to be confused with Illinoisblues.com's newsletter of the same name). The show will take place at the Mesa Amphitheatre on Saturday, February 21, 2009 as a daytime event. The lineup will include Janiva Magness, Omar & The Howlers, Cedric Burnside and Lightnin’ Malcolm (who have a new release on the Delta Groove record label), AZ Blues Showdown winners Mikel Lander & Meridith Moore, Kathy Mabry & Kevin Casenheiser (playing in between sets), and a Phoenix All-Star set featuring veteran Arizona Blues Hall Of Famers in a revue setting. Bob Corritore will be included in this set with the full lineup yet to be announced. For more information on the Phoenix Blues Society, click here.
RIP Alice Mae Burnside 4/26/1932-11/16/2008: Ben "The Harpman" Cox of the online publication Juke Joint Soul reports that Alice Mae Burnside, the beloved wife of the late R.L. Burnside, passed away Sunday, November 16, 2008. She was a loving mother to 12 children and grandmother to a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Services were arranged by the Rodgers Funeral Home and held on Saturday, November 22, 2008 at the Tchulahoma Church in Byhalia, MS. R.L. Burnside recorded the song "Alice Mae" as a tribute to his wife on his 1997 CD Mr. Wizard on the Fat Possum Record Label. To see of photo page of R.L. Burnside, click here.
RIP Pat Ramsey: Harmonica player Pat Ramsey was best known for his associations with rock and blues-rock artists. He performed and recorded with Johnny Winter and Butch Trucks, and was a major influence on Eclecto Groove recording artist Jason Ricci. He died on November 17, 2008 from complications of Hepatitis C. He was 49. Click here for his complete bio. Thank you, Pat, for bringing blues harmonica to a wider audience.
RIP Robert Lucas: Blues harpist/guitarist/singer Robert Lucas passed away Sunday November 23, 2008 of a drug overdose. He was 46. Lucas worked in the 80s and early 90s, fronting a California based blues unit called Luke & The Locomotives. He went on to be the frontman in a revised version of Canned Heat, filling the character role of the late Bob "The Bear" Hite. Being a rotund man, he both musically and visually fit the job description. In addition to a number of recordings with Canned Heat, he had seven solo albums. He was a stirring harp player with a great sense of tradition, a great slide guitarist and a hearty vocalist. He will be greatly missed. For more information and a photo of Robert Lucas, click here.
Additional Information on Earwig's Bea and Baby Reissue: Joe Rutan from Earwig Music will be doing the research for the Bea and Baby reissue that we mentioned in our last newsletter. He e-mailed to tell us that in addition to the blues and doo-wop on the label, there were some gospel gems issued by Eddie Dean & The Biblical-Aires, The Glory-Airs, The Norfolk Singers, and The Pilgrim Harmonizers. Joe is also on the search for a number of 45s for which no masters are available, as well as any photos, interviews, press clippings, memorabilia, or anything concerning the Bea and Baby record label. Note that the Bea and Baby label group also includes the Key, Keyhole, and Miss labels. If you have any helpful information on the Bea and Baby label, please email Joe at earwigmusic@aol.com.
Happy Thanksgiving! Here is a link to a YouTube tribute to Little Eva (famous for the hit song "The Loco-Motion") and her 1963 song "Let's Turkey Trot". Click here to see and hear it. Wishing everyone the best of Thanksgiving holidays. Thank you for your cherished friendship.

November 20, 2008

Bob Corritore Cover Story in Back To The Roots Magazine is out! Belgium's Back To The Roots Magazine has just published its current issue featuring a cover story on Bob Corritore, complete with an 8-page interview/article by editor Franky Bruneel. The article (published in Nederlands or Dutch) features numerous great photos and a beautiful layout. We have posted this article online, and you can check it out by clicking here. Thank you, Franky!
Rhythm Room All-Stars to Perform at the 2009 Spring Blues Festival in Belgium: This just booked: The Rhythm Room All-Stars are honored to be part of the 2009 lineup of the famed Spring Blues Festival in Ecaussinnes, Belgium on May 16, 2009. The Rhythm Room All-Stars feature a highly credentialed lineup consisting of Big Pete Pearson, Bob Corritore, Chris James, Patrick Rynn, and Brian Fahey.
Chris James & Patrick Rynn CD on the Roots Music Radio Charts for 18 Straight Weeks! Chris James and Patrick Rynn are one of the great partnerships in the blues. Firmly rooted in the traditional Chicago blues sound, they have performed for decades together in their own Blue Four band, as well as with Sam Lay, Jody Williams, Dennis Binder, Tomcat Courtney, Rob Stone and the C-Notes, and of course, The Rhythm Room All-Stars. It is very gratifying to see the way that Chris and Patrick's CD, Stop And Think About It on the Earwig Music label, has been received. In addition to earning over 20 great reviews so far (click here to see them), this CD has been on the Roots Music Report's Blues Radio Charts for 18 weeks now, and as of November 14, 2008 it was at #6! The CD also debuted the Living Blues Radio charts in September at #8, was #6 in October, and #11 in November!
Tomcat Courtney Nominated For Independent Music Award! Beth Lipham of Blue Witch Records just emailed to inform us that Tomcat Courtney/Downsville Blues has been nominated for an Independent Music Award for best blues CD! Tomcat is now 79 years old, and possesses one of the greatest voices in down home blues. Anyone can vote for the IMAs, so we encourage you to consider voting for the amazing Tomcat Courtney by clicking here to make your ballot choice. To see some great photos of Tomcat, click here and here. To read some of the great reviews of this record, click here.

New Louisiana Red CD Released! Little Victor informs us that the new CD Louisiana Red/Back To The Black Bayou has just been released on Bluestown Records, based in Norway . Victor produced, arranged, and played on this wonderful Louisiana Red record and guests include Kim Wilson, David Maxwell, and Bob Corritore. This CD will remind the world of the great talent of the legendary Louisiana Red. To see the beautiful CD artwork, click here. Thank you, Little Victor, for this great album!
Earwig Music to Release Bea and Baby Masters: Michael Frank, owner of Earwig Music, reports his plans to release a multiple CD set of music from Chicago's famed Bea and Baby Records. Frank states that this reissue will be an extensive release that will include not only the better-known blues tracks, but also some doo-wop performances from the label. Apparently, there are a number of rare and unissued sides that will appear on CD for the first time, including a session by Sleepy John Estes and Hammie Nixon. Bea and Baby Records was formed in 1959 by Narvel Eatmon, who went by the name Cadillac Baby. He named his label after himself and his wife, Bea. Eatmon recorded many great Chicago artists such as Sunnyland Slim, Little Mack Simmons, Eddie Boyd, Detroit Junior, James Cotton, L.C. McKinley, Willie Williams, Johnny Littlejohn, Homesick James, Hound Dog Taylor, and others. The label's biggest hit was Bobby Saxton's "Trying To Make A Living", which was released in 1960. The label also released records by vocal groups such as The Daylighters, Faith Taylor and The Sweet Teens, and The Chances. Eatmon also owned a club called Cadillac Baby's Show Lounge on 47th and Dearborn in Chicago, where many of his recording artists played. Michael Frank met Cadillac Baby in 1974, and the two became good friends; they even produced a session together in the 80s by a rapper named 3D (this session will be included in the CD). Eatmon passed away in 1991, but he left us with a treasured legacy of great recordings, which will be lovingly re-released next year on Earwig Music.
Bob's Blues Radio Show to Celebrate 25 Year Anniversary in February 2009 with Commemorative CD and Special Event: Bob Corritore has hosted his radio program, Those Lowdown Blues on KJZZ in Phoenix, since February of 1984. Over the course of these 24 plus years, the show has been highly celebrated by both the Phoenix blues community and the blues world at large. The show has been annually recognized by the New Times Best Of Phoenix Awards, as well as winning a KBA Award from The Blues Foundation in 2007. Just this year, the show was honored at the Cognac Blues Festival in France, as an honorary membership to Collectif des Radios Blues was presented to Bob onstage just before his set with Dave Riley. Bob's radio show has always stood for the deep traditions of the blues, and the majority of the music heard on a typical show is from the 1950s. The show draws from Bob's extensive personal library of blues recordings. A CD has been compiled featuring highlights of on-air performances from the course of the program's history. The disc will be titled Broadcasting The Blues, and will feature great artists such as Lowell Fulson (from 1984 performing a solo version of "Sinner's Prayer"), Billy Boy Arnold, Louisiana Red, Dave Riley, Otis Clay and Johnny Rawls (together singing a spiritual), Willie Dixon (giving a spoken plug for the show), Chief Schabuttie Gilliame, Lazy Lester, Tomcat Courtney, Jerry Lawson (of The Persuasions), CeDell Davis, Chris James (who beautifully backed many of these artists on guitar), Margo Reed, Johnny Dyer, Henry Gray, Billy Flynn (doing a great harmonica instrumental), and more. This CD will be released on the Southwest Musical Arts Foundation label, and will be available in early 2009. To see the beautiful cover design by Tony Amato, click here. Also, Bob plans a big party on February 20, 2009 at the Rhythm Room, which will also be the pre-party for the Phoenix Blues Society's annual Blues Blast Festival. Bob's radio show can heard in Phoenix each Sunday night from 6 to 11pm at 91.5FM, or on 89.5 in Cottonwood, 98.9 in Tucson, and 99.1 in Kingman. It can be heard anywhere in the world (real-time) via online streaming at www.kjzz.org.
More Blues Blast Music Awards Photos posted: Thanks to Lordy of Chicago Blues Beat for posting these wonderful images remembering a great party. The Blues Blast Music Awards, sponsored by Illinoisblues.com, happened Sunday, November 2, 2008 at Buddy Guy's Legends in Chicago. Lordy has divided his photos into two sections: the performances (click here to see) and the party (click here to see). Images include Magic Slim, Sugar Ray Norcia, Johnny Drummer, Michael Frank, Dave Riley and Bob Corritore, Lurrie Bell, Nick Moss, Deak Harp, John Németh, Eden Brent, Kilborn Alley Blues Band, Too Slim, Lonnie Brooks, Jennifer Wheeler, Mary Lane, and more!
Odetta Hospitalized: Odetta was admitted to a New York hospital last week with kidney failure. Well known among fans of blues and folk music, Odetta has been called "The Voice Of The Civil Rights Movement". She is doing better and hopes to be able to perform at Obama's inauguration ceremony. You may send get well cards to:

Ms. Odetta Gordon

Room # 719, 7th Floor ICU Unit

Lenox Hill Hospital

100 East 77th Street

New York, NY 10021

Prayers for her speedy recovery. To see a great 1978 photo of Odetta with Louisiana Red, click here.

Doris Carr additional Funeral Information: A little more complete information on Doris Carr's funeral:

Visitation is Friday, November 21, 2008 from 5pm to 7pm. Doris's "Homegoing Celebration" services will be held at 12 noon on Saturday, November 22, 2008. Both take place at:

Century Funeral Home

506 Ashton Ave.

Clarksdale, MS 38614

(662) 627-4182

November 16, 2008

Doris Carr Memorial Information: This just in from Geni Ward, Sam Carr’s sister: Doris's services will be held at noon on Saturday, November 22, 2008 at the Century Funeral Home in Clarksdale, Mississippi: For further information:

Century Funeral Home

506 Ashton Ave.

Clarksdale, MS 38614

(662) 627-4182

November 13, 2008

RIP Doris Carr: This sad news just in from Roger Stolle: Mrs. Doris Carr of Lula, Mississippi, passed away early this morning at age 80, according to long-time Carr Family friend and former Rooster Blues co-owner Patty Johnson of Clarksdale. Known by many as the beloved wife of legendary blues drummer Sam Carr, Miss Doris was also a blues singer in her own right and a caretaker of other Deltans in the past. She is survived by her husband, Sam Carr -- the son of slide guitar master Robert Nighthawk and drummer of the world-famous Jelly Roll Kings. Sam and Doris Carr have been together since she was 13 years old. Mrs. Carr had been in poor health for some time. Mr. Carr still resides in Lula. Funeral arrangements are pending with more information forthcoming.

November 11, 2008

Rhythm Room All-Stars Perform this Weekend at the Rhythm Room: There is something special about seeing The Rhythm Room All-Stars at their monthly home base gig. This Friday and Saturday, November 14 and 15, 2008, Big Pete Pearson, Bob Corritore, Chris James, Patrick Rynn, and Brian Fahey (AKA The Rhythm Room All-Stars) take the stage and work their magical musical chemistry on the crowd. The Rhythm Room is located at 1019 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix, AZ 85014. Doors open at 8pm, cover charge is $7. Rack Shack Barbeque will be available at these events. This night will be a patio smoking only event; no indoor smoking will be permitted.
Tomcat Courtney CD Praised by Blues Revue: Much appreciation to writer Art Tipaldi for his glowing review of Tomcat Courtney/Downsville Blues on the Blue Witch record Label. Tomcat Courtney, now 79, is one of the few remaining direct links to the music of Lightnin' Hopkins, Lil' Son Jackson, and Smokey Hogg. To see this review, click here. Thanks, Art, and thanks, Blues Revue Magazine.
Cadillac Records, a Movie about Chess Records, Opens Dec. 5: Cadillac Records, a film depiction of the rise of Chess Records, will open in Theatres on Friday, December 5, 2008. Let's see how Hollywood will handle a subject so dear to every blues lover's heart. Certainly, the movie trailer is intriguing. Cadillac Records stars Beyoncé Knowles at Etta James, Jeffrey Wright as Muddy Waters, Adrien Brody as Leonard Chess, Columbus Short as Little Walter, Mos Def as Chuck Berry, and Cedric The Entertainer as Willie Dixon. The behind-the-scenes soundtrack musicians (who recreate versions of classic Chess hits) are top notch, and include Kim Wilson, Billy Flynn, Eddie Taylor, Jr., and Barrelhouse Chuck. To see the preview to Cadillac Records, click here.
Chicago Blues Guide Posts Article on the 2008 Blues Blast Music Awards! The Chicago Blues Guide is a website that celebrates and supports the great blues scene of Chicago. CBG contains listings for Chicagoland’s blues clubs, bands, radio shows, record labels and links. The webzine features plenty of photos, news and features on what’s happening in the current Chicago blues world, including interviews, events, DVD and CD reviews, and live blues reviews. Check out their wonderful article on the 2008 Blues Blast Music Awards (hosted by Illinoisblues.com) which took place on November 2, 2008 at Buddy Guy's Legends. This article was written by CBG chief Linda Cain and includes nice photos by Jennifer Wheeler. To see the piece, click here.
2009 KBA Award Winners Announced: The KBA (Keeping The Blues Alive) award is The Blues Foundation's recognition of those individuals and organizations that have excelled in their support of blues music and its community. The 2009 recipients have been announced, and include:

1) Agent: Steve Hecht, Piedmont Talent, Charlotte, NC

2) Art & Photography: Dusty & Val Scott, Dusty Blues, Pittsburgh, PA

3) Blues Club: B.L.U.E.S., Chicago, IL

4) Education: Monroe County Black History Month, Monroe County, MI

5) Festival: Telluride Blues and Brews Festival, Telluride, CO

6) Film, Television and Video: Willy Bearden, Memphis, TN

7) Historical Preservation: Shack Up Inn, Clarksdale, MS

8) International: Associazione Roots And Blues, Parma, Italy

9) Internet: Pandora.com, Oakland, CA

10) Journalism: Hal Horowitz, Marietta, GA

11) Literature: Craig Hopkins, Cedar Hill, TX

12) Manager: John Hahn, New York, NY

13) Organization: Washington Blues Society, Seattle, WA

14) Print Media: Il Blues, Milan, Italy

15) Producer: David Z., Nashville, TN

16) Promoter: Omega Events, Van Nuys, CA

17) Publicist: Betsie Brown, Blind Raccoon, Memphis, TN

18) Radio (Commercial): Kai Turner, Denver, CO

19) Radio (Public): John Kessler, Seattle, WA

20) Record Label: Delta Groove, Van Nuys, CA

21) Retailer: Manifest Disc, Charlotte, NC

22) Sponsor: Barbara Hammerman, Gig Harbor, WA

Congratulations to all these worthy recipients for their great work in the blues. The awards ceremony will take place in Memphis on Wednesday, February 4, 2009, in conjunction with the International Blues Challenge (IBC). For more information on these awards and their recipients, click here.

Biscuits & Blues Celebrates the Life of Francis Clay: Legendary drummer Francis Clay passed away on January 21, 2008. He was known best for his work in the Muddy Waters band, though he also worked and recorded with James Cotton, John Lee Hooker, Big Mama Thornton, Lightnin' Hopkins and many others. In later years, he settled in the San Francisco bay area, where he became an esteemed community figure. For our complete obituary, please reference the newsletter of January 23, 2008 by clicking here, and scrolling to the date. This Sunday, November 16, 2008, Biscuits & Blues will host an event of reflection on this great man's life. The club's website titles this event "Music and Words Honoring Drummer Francis Clay" and the show will include speakers, musical performances, a slide show, a video presentation and cake (it would have been Francis's 85th birthday on this date). Biscuits & Blues is located at 401 Mason Street, San Francisco, CA 94102, tel. (415)292-2583. Doors open at 1:30pm, and the event runs from 2pm to 5pm. There is no cover charge, but donations are accepted for a headstone fund. To see a clip of Francis Clay performing with Muddy Waters on a classic 1960 performance of "Got My Mojo Working" live at Newport, click here.
Additions and Corrections to Last Newsletter: 1) The Robert Lockwood, Jr. Article in ABS Magazine was written by Mark Hoffman (Co-author of the Howlin' Wolf bio Moanin' At Midnight), and translated into French by Jean-Luc Vabres. 2) Apparently, Honeyboy Edwards did see the mystery photo speculated to be that of Robert Johnson, and did not give it his seal of approval. 3) Please note that we misspelled and omitted some of the names of the people at the Blues Blast Music Awards, and you can see an amended article by clicking here, and scrolling down.

November 5, 2008

Willie “Big Eyes” Smith Arizona Dates This Weekend: Though most famous for being the long-time drummer in the Muddy Waters Blues Band, Willie “Big Eyes” Smith has been making quite a name for himself over the last few years as a singer/harmonica player/frontman. Willie “Big Eyes” Smith's first instrument was harmonica, and he recorded sides behind Bo Diddley and Arthur "Big Boy" Spires during the 1950s. Willie played drums with Muddy Waters through portions of the 60s and 70s. After leaving Muddy's band, he worked for years in an outfit called The Legendary Blues Band, where he began to emerge as a vocalist. In recent years, he has released two straight-ahead Chicago blues records as a harmonica player, fWay Back on the HighTone record label (released in 2006), and most recently Born In Arkansas on the Big Eye label. Willie makes two appearances in Arizona this weekend: Friday, November 7, 2008 at Old Town Artisans in Tucson for Jonathan Holden's Rhythm And Roots Concert Series, and Saturday, November 8, 2008 at the Rhythm Room in Phoenix. Willie brings with him a great Chicago blues band that includes "Little Frank" Krakowski on guitar, Bob Stroger on bass, and Eddie Kobek on drums. The Rhythm Room is located at 1019 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix, AZ 85014. Doors open at 8pm, cover charge is $12. Rack Shack Barbeque will be available at these events. This night will be a patio smoking only event; no indoor smoking will be permitted.
Robert Lockwood Article in new ABS Magazine: The late great Robert Lockwood, Jr. is remembered in the latest issue of ABS Magazine. The article, written by Mark Hoffman (Co-author of the Howlin' Wolf bio Moanin' At Midnight) reflects on the life of a man who can arguably be called one of the most influential figures in the blues. The article also uses a wide array of great historic photos, a few of which are from Bob Corritore’s archives. The Lockwood article was part of the magazine's feature on Mississippi down-home blues. Thanks to ABS Magazine for remembering this great man. To see more photos of Robert Lockwood, Jr. on BobCorritore.com, click here.
Vanity Fair Possible Photo of Robert Johnson: It’s always wonderful when blues meets mainstream media. Vanity Fair recently posted an article delving into a mysterious photo that some believe to be a recently discovered shot of the rarely photographed Robert Johnson. (Only two confirmed photos of Johnson exist; with this one still having a question mark behind it.) Too bad that Robert Lockwood, Jr. isn’t around to make the final call on this one, but we wonder if anyone checked with Honeyboy Edwards (who also played with Johnson) to verify this. To see this controversial photo and the Vanity Fair article, click here.
Electro-Fi Releases Harmonica Collection from Hummel Archives: Harmonica ace Mark Hummel has created a niche in the blues world by combining harmonica legends into a series of concerts coined as “blowouts”. The Canadian Electro-Fi label has recently put out a collection of these shows over the years featuring some simply great performances. Mark Hummel’s Harmonica Blowouts Still Here and Gone (EFI-3410) is a two CD set that showcases the very best of Mark’s legendary “Harmonica Blowout” shows recorded live between 1993 – 2007. It features blues artists such as Magic Dick (J. Geils Band), Lee Oskar, Rick Estrin, William Clarke, Paul DeLay, Carey Bell, James Harman, Johnny Dyer, Sam Myers, Lazy Lester, Billy Boy Arnold, and Mark Hummel. Guitarists on this record include Rusty Zinn, Anson Funderburgh, Charles Wheal, and Junior Watson. Thanks, Mark, for sharing these gems with us.
RIP Rudy Ray Moore 3/17/27-10/19/08: Rudy Ray Moore, also known as Dolemite, The Disco Godfather, Petey Wheatstraw, and The Human Tornado, passed away on October 19, 2008. He was 81. Best known as being a XXX-comedian, a blaxsploitation film star, and a precursor of rap, Rudy got his start as a blues recording artist, and made a number of great R&B recordings during the 50s and 60s, which would later be reissued on a wonderful collection on the Norton record label. Though Rudy is hard to classify, he always had one foot in the blues, and his beautiful, brash personality will be deeply missed.
Midwest Trip Recap - Bob Riedy Reunion, Blues Blast Music Awards, Jazz Record Mart, Obama Rally: Kim and I began our trip by landing in Chicago. We met Chris James and Patrick Rynn at the airport, who had come from San Diego. Since we all had slightly different itineraries, we each rented our own vehicles before heading to Lake Geneva to do a mini-festival celebrating the 30-year anniversary of the Bob Riedy Blues Band. This show would include: original members of the Bob Riedy Blues Band, Jon Hiller, Mark Wydra, and Rick Knapp, as well as guest stars Sam Lay, Eddy Clearwater (a last minute special surprise), Gabe Butterfield (the son of Paul Butterfield), Chris James, Patrick Rynn, Eddie Kobek, and myself. Bob Riedy had arranged it where we would come in a few days earlier to check out the backline and rehearse. My function was both to be the harmonica player with Chris and Patrick, who performed the opening set each night, and to be a Carey Bell fill-in for the Bob Riedy Blues Band. I had many memorable nights watching this band and its special guests at Biddy Mulligan’s in Chicago during the 1970s. Though I had performed many times over the years with Sam Lay, this was my first time working with the legendary Eddy Clearwater. I had been a fan of Eddy’s music for many, many years, and Eddy seemed happy to be able to utilize my harmonica on songs like “Blue Over You”, “Pretty Baby”, "A Good Leavin' Alone", “I’m Ready”, and “Came Up The Hard Way”. We had three wonderful nights of playing and camaraderie on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. Bob Riedy put together a truly memorable gathering, which included a display of rare photos, show posters, and the actual mandolin and guitar of the late Johnny Young (who used to play in the Bob Riedy Blues Band). Chris, Patrick, Eddie Kobek, and myself were very thankful to be included in this special event.

After the gig on Saturday, Kim and I drove to Chicago in preparation for Sunday’s Blues Blast Music Awards at Buddy Guy's Legends. This was the first year of these awards, which promises to be an annual event. Bob Kieser and Ann Caldwell from IllinoisBlues.com ran a very successful, well-organized show that was filled with hospitality. Performers included Magic Slim & The Teardrops, Lurrie Bell, Nick Moss & Gerry Hundt, Tim "Too Slim" Langford (from Too Slim and the Taildraggers), John Németh, Kilborn Alley Blues Band, Eden Brent, Sugar Ray Norcia, Teeny Tucker, and Gina Sicilia and Dave Gross, and the duo of Dave Riley and myself. The winners included The Holmes Brothers - State Of Grace for Best Contemporary Blues Recording, Lurrie Bell - Let's Talk About Love for Best Traditional Blues Recording, Nick Moss - "Mistakes from the Past" for Best Blues Song, Magic Slim & The Teardrops for Best Blues Band, Buddy Guy for Best Male Artist, Koko Taylor for Best Female Artist, John Németh - Magic Touch for Best New Artist Debut Recording, and John Németh for the Sean Costello Rising Star Award. Presenters included James Walker (primary reviewer for Blues Blast Magazine), Ben Cox (also a reviewer for Blues Blast Magazine), August "Lordy" Lord (writer for Chicago Blues Beat), Linda Cain (of Chicago Blues Guide), Eric Steiner (President of the Washington Blues Society), Deb Seitz, and Matt Eimer (festival promoter for the Simply Blues Festival in Fort Madison, Iowa). Some of the celebrities in attendance were Ben Cox of Juke Joint Soul, Mark Thompson, Cyndy Lee of WDCB Radio and Jennifer from Chicago Blues Guide, Jerry Del Giudice from Blind Pig Records, Deak Harp, Matthew Skoller, Marty Salzman, manager of Magic Slim, Johnny Drummer (with whom I reminisced about seeing him as a featured vocalist with The Aces during the early 1970s), Lonnie Brooks (who I found out was a neighbor and good friend of Dave Riley’s), Kate Moss of Blue Bella Records, Pat Smillie, and others. Though Dave and I did not win in our nominated category, we were thankful for the honor of being part of this great event.

After Sunday night, all my scheduled performances were over; so on Monday, I made it a point to stop by to visit my dear friend and longtime mentor, Bob Koester at his famous record store, the Jazz Record Mart. Bob Koester and I visited for about an hour and a half, as I listened to him tell his pearls of wisdom and stories of his adventures in the music business. I had arranged to also meet Chris and Patrick, Bill Dahl, and Scott Dirks there, making it a great afternoon of story telling and record shopping. That night I took Kim to one of Chicago’s many excellent restaurants, Rhapsody, which was in walking distance of our hotel. The next night was the main reason for our extended stay; to attend the election night Obama rally at Grant Park. Please note that politics is not the focus of our newsletter; but I will say this: aside from my support of Obama, he was the only candidate to buy a full page ad in Living Blues Magazine, and has recently been the subject of numerous blues and R&B songs; also of note were his blues fundraisers at Rosa’s Lounge during his past campaigns. Rolling Stone Magazine reported in a candidate IPod playlist comparison that Barack had included Howlin' Wolf among his favorite music. As we piled into Grant Park, the joy and hopefulness was contagious among the quarter million people who were there. Since we did not have tickets to get up close, we were in an outlying area of the park, where we watched CNN on a Jumbotron (there were a number of screens scattered throughout the park). As we settled into our spot, we realized that we had landed in the exact area that was where at the 2006 Chicago Blues Festival, we had a wonderful backstage conversation with Robert Lockwood, Jr., and Kim and I reflected on this great man and wished he was still alive to see this moment. During the CNN announcements, commentator Roland Martin referenced Chicago Blues, and before Obama’s acceptance speech, one of the songs played was a version of "Sweet Home Chicago". Aside from all of these blues connections, it was great to be back in my hometown and be a part of this amazing moment in American history. We write this newsletter as we wait in the airport on Wednesday morning, ready to head back to Phoenix, after the most satisfying of trips.

-Bob Corritore

October 22, 2008

Rhythm Room All-Stars This Weekend at the Rhythm Room! The Rhythm Room All-Stars with Big Pete Pearson, Bob Corritore, Chris James, Patrick Rynn, and Brian Fahey present their special brand of heartfelt blues this Friday and Saturday, October 24-25, 2008 at the Rhythm Room. The Rhythm Room is located at 1019 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix, AZ 85014. Doors open at 8pm, cover charge is $7. Rack Shack Barbeque will be available at these events. These nights will be patio smoking only events; no indoor smoking will be permitted.
Harmonica Showcase: The Rhythm Room will present its annual Blues Harmonica Showcase this Thursday, October 23, 2008 featuring a dazzling array of Phoenix's top harmonica talent. The show is hosted by harmonica master Bill Tarsha and his band, the Rocket 88s. In addition to Bill Tarsha, the harmonica players include Big Nick, Bill Tarsha, Blind Ronnie, Bob Corritore, David Winston, Dwight Miles, Gypsy, Jerry Schwartz, Jimmy "Harp Jam" Johnson, John Calley, Keith Rodgers, Lady Dee, Larry Dee, Larry Polk, Lee Poole, Paul Klapper, Ray "Root Doctor" DeSylvester, Robert Jackson, Rob Hale, Rusty Walker, Sam McRae, Sarge Lintecum, Steve Passanelli, Walkin' Cane Mark, and more. The Rhythm Room is located at 1019 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix, AZ 85014. Doors open at 8pm, cover charge is $7. Rack Shack Barbeque will be available at this event. This night will be a patio smoking only event; no indoor smoking will be permitted.
Lake Geneva Dates: Next week Chris James, Patrick Rynn, and Bob Corritore are off to Wisconsin to join Bob Riedy and a reunion of the Bob Riedy Blues Band for a 3-night stint at The Lodge at Geneva Ridge on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, October 30, 31, and November 1, 2008. Other guests for this event include the legendary Sam Lay, Gabriel Butterfield (the son of Paul Butterfield), and Eddie Kobek. A fourth day at The Lodge will happen on Sunday, November 2, 2008 with Rob Stone filling in for Bob, while Dave Riley and Bob Corritore perform at the Blues Blast Music Awards at Buddy Guy's Legends in Chicago as part of a huge star-studded lineup. To see the poster for the Bob Riedy reunion show, click here.
Blues Blast Music Awards: Dave Riley & Bob Corritore will perform at the 2008 Blues Blast Music Awards happening Sunday, November 2, 2008 at Buddy Guy's Legends, 754 S. Wabash Avenue, Chicago, IL 60605. Featured acts include nominees Magic Slim &; The Teardrops, Lurrie Bell, Nick Moss, John Németh, The Kilborn Alley Blues Band, Dave Riley & Bob Corritore, Eden Brent, Sugar Ray Norcia, Teeny Tucker, Tim "Too Slim" Langford (from Too Slim and the Taildraggers), Gina Sicilia, and others. Dave Riley and Bob Corritore were nominated for "Best Traditional Blues Recording" for Travelin' The Dirt Road on the Blue Witch Record Label. To read more about the 2008 Blues Blast Music Awards and purchase advance tickets, click here.
Nappy Brown Gets Living Blues Award for Album Of The Year! The recent issue of Living Blues Magazine (issue # 197 for October 2008) features the Living Blues Music Awards. In that issue, our beloved friend, the recently deceased Nappy Brown, received three Living Blues Music Awards including the prestigious "Album Of The Year" category. Congratulations to all the winners, including Koko Taylor for "Female Blues Artist Of The Year", Lurrie Bell for "Male Blues Artist Of The Year", Pinetop Perkins for "Most Outstanding Keyboard Player", James Cotton for "Most Outstanding Harmonica Player" , Bob Stroger for "Most Outstanding Bass Player", Phillip Walker/Going Back Home for "Contemporary Blues Record", Robert Lockwood, Jr./Steady Rollin' Man for "Best Historical Reissue/Post War", Delta Groove label chief Randy Chortkoff for "Producer Of The Year', and Willie "Big Eyes" Smith and his son Kenny "Beedy Eyes" Smith who tied for the "Best Blues Drummer" category! Also in this issue is a beautiful article on the late Little Arthur Duncan by Justin O'Brien, and a piece on Blind John Davis by Jas Obrecht.
Big City Blues Gives Chris James and Patrick Rynn’s New CD a Glowing Review! Special thanks to friends Robert Jr. Whitall and Shirley Mae Owens for their wonderful publication Big City Blues, and for their dedication to the blues world in general. The most recent issue includes a glowing review of Chris James and Patrick Rynn's CD Stop And Think About It on Earwig Music, written by Roger and Margaret White. Thanks, Big City Blues!
Blues Art Journal Posts Reviews of 4 Bob Corritore-Produced CDs: Special thanks to reviewer Norman Darwen, who wrote a glowing, multi-CD review in Blues Art Journal of Bob Corritore's 4 productions for the Blue Witch Record Label: Big Pete Pearson/I'm Here Baby, Various Artists/House Rockin' And Blues Shoutin!: Celebrating 15 Years Of The Rhythm Room, Dave Riley & Bob Corritore/Travelin' The Dirt Road, and Tomcat Courtney/Downsville Blues. To see this great review, click here.
Dave Riley and Bob Corritore to Open for Leon Russell in December: The BMA and BBMA-nominated duo of Dave Riley and Bob Corritore will provide an opening set at the December 22, 2008 Leon Russell concert at the Rhythm Room in Phoenix, Arizona. The Rhythm Room is located at 1019 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix, AZ 85014. Doors open at 7pm. Tickets are $31 in advance or $33 on the day of the show; advance tickets are available at the Rhythm Room, all Ticketmaster store locations, Charge by Phone: (800)745-3000, or Ticketmaster.com. This night will be a patio smoking only event; no indoor smoking will be permitted.
Big Walter Article in Back To The Roots: Thanks to Belgium's Back To The Roots Magazine and its editor Franky Bruneel for a beautiful article on harmonica master Big Walter Horton in last month's issue (#66) featuring the recollections of André Hobus, Bruce Iglauer, Bob Corritore, and Franky Bruneel. To see this article, click here.
RIP Levi Stubbs of the Four Tops 6/6/1936-10/17/2008: Levi Stubbs was the charismatic lead vocalist of The Four Tops. The Four Tops had a number of Motown classic hits, including “Baby I Need Your Loving”, “I Can’t Help Myself (Sugar Pie Honey Bunch)”, “It's The Same Old Song”, “Reach Out I'll Be There”, “Standing In The Shadows Of Love”, "Bernadette",and many others. Levi was an original member of the band and remained in the band until his passing. The Four Tops were elected to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1990. Levi had been in bad health over the last few years. His songs will live on forever. For a complete bio, click here. To see a vintage film clip of The Four Tops performing “Baby I Need your Loving”, click here.
RIP Dee Dee Warwick 9/25/1945–10/18/2008: The great soul and gospel singer Dee Dee Warwick passed away on Saturday in a nursing home in New Jersey. She was 63. The sister of Dionne Warwick, Dee Dee was a star in her own right with numerous hits including “I'm Gonna Make You Love Me” which was later covered by Diana Ross & The Supremes. For more information, click here. To see a vintage film clip of Dee Dee Performing “We’re Doing Fine”, click here.
André Hobus Photo Library Coming Soon to BobCorritore.com! We are preparing a new photo tribute section celebrating the 1970s photography of the a group of Belgium photographers known as The André Hobus Photo Library, featuring the images of photographers Bob Vanderschueren, Claude Meyer, Annique Massange, André Hobus, and Marc De Jonghe. These people took many stunning photographs of blues artists touring Europe during the 1970s. Among these images are Eddie Taylor, Junior Wells, Lightnin' Slim, Louisiana Red, Koko Taylor, The Aces, Jimmie Lee Robinson, Buddy Guy, Johnny Young, B.B. King, Lowell Fulson, Billy Boy Arnold, Jimmy Dawkins, Otis Rush, Phillip Walker, Juke Boy Bonner, Big John Wrencher, Hubert Sumlin, Lonnie Brooks, John Lee Hooker, Snooky Pryor, Hammie Nixon, and many more! These photos are spectacular, and we are very excited about our forthcoming photo section. This idea was started by Marc De Jonghe, who stumbled across www.bobcorritore.com, saw the extensive photo section, and offered this wonderful work a home on Bob's website. We hope to have these photos up within the next few weeks.

October 14, 2008

Paris James, Big Pete Pearson and Bob Corritore To Appear Thursday at Quiessence in Phoenix: Quiessence at The Farm at South Mountain is an intimate dinner-oriented venue where Paris James performs regularly. He will be joined this Thursday by Big Pete Pearson and Bob Corritore for a special show of down-home blues! The Farm at South Mountain is located at 6106 S. 32nd St., Phoenix, AZ 85042. The show will start at 8pm. For more details on this event, click here.
This Weekend At The Rhythm Room: Friday night the Rhythm Room features Guitar Ray and Mr. Boogie Woogie (both from the Netherlands) and a show called "Dutch Blues Explosion". Should be lots of jumpin', danceable swing and jump blues. Then on Saturday, the Rhythm Room features the Phoenix debut of The Insomniacs, a youthful, Portland-based blues outfit who have a hot disc out on the Delta Groove Record label. The Rhythm Room is located at 1019 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix, AZ 85014. Doors open at 8pm both nights, cover charge is $8 Friday and $10 Saturday. Rack Shack Barbeque will be available at these events. These nights will be patio smoking only events; no indoor smoking will be permitted.
New Photo Page of the 2007 Lucerne Blues Festival Added: The Rhythm Room All-Stars were honored to be part of last year's spectacular lineup at the Lucerne Blues Festival in Switzerland. The Rhythm Room All-Stars (Big Pete Pearson, Chris James, Patrick Rynn, Brian Fahey, and Bob Corritore) brought along special guest Bob Margolin and had two magical night of playing at the festival. Also on the bill in 2007 were Koko Taylor, Paul Oscher, Janiva Magness, Mike Morgan & The Crawl, Billy Branch, Coco Montoya, Willie Walker, Jumpin' Johnny Sansone, Sonny Rhodes, Zac Harmon, and many others. This year's Lucerne Blues Festival will take place November 7-16, 2008, and will feature The Mannish Boys, Buckwheat Zydeco, Steve Guyger, Little Freddie King, Bettye LaVette, The Campbell Brothers, Curtis Salgado, Fruteland Jackson, Fernando Jones, Homemade Jamz, Sue Foley, and more! To check out the festival website, click here. To see our new photo page of the 2007 Lucerne Blues Festival, click here.
New Louisiana Red CD Produced by Little Victor to be Released Later this Month! For Little Victor, it has always been a dream to produce an album by the bluesman who has been his blues idol. That dream has become a reality with the forthcoming release of Back To The Black Bayou, to be released later this month on Bluestown Records. Victor's close bond with Red enabled him to produce a feisty, deep blues record with a personal touch! Little Victor plays guitar on most tracks and harmonica on a few, as well as arranging a sympathetic band lineup to back Red. Special guests include Kim Wilson, David Maxwell, Bob Corritore, and others. We look forward to Louisiana Red's new release! To see the album artwork, click here.
Wisconsin Dates with Bob Riedy, Sam Lay, Gabriel Butterfield and others Announced: A series of shows arranged by blues pianist/bandleader/booking agent Bob Riedy will take place October 30, 31, and November 1, 2008 at The Lodge at Geneva Ridge, Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. In addition to reuniting the famous 70s blues collaboration known as the Bob Riedy Blues Band, the show will include special guests Sam Lay, Gabriel Butterfield (the son of Paul Butterfield), Chris James, Patrick Rynn, Eddie Kobek, and Bob Corritore. A fourth night at The Lodge will happen on Sunday, November 2, 2008 with Rob Stone filling in for Bob, while Dave Riley and Bob Corritore perform at the Blues Blast Music Awards at Buddy Guy's Legends in Chicago as part of a huge star-studded lineup.
Rhythm Room All-Stars Featured in Blues Report E-Zine: Thanks to Blues Underground Network for their recent feature of The Rhythm Room All-Stars in their Blues Report E-Zine. To see the article, click here.
Chief Schabuttie Gilliame to be Inducted in the Arizona Blues Hall Of Fame! This just announced! Chief Schabuttie Gilliame will be among the 2008 inductees of the Arizona Blues Hall Of Fame. Originally from Africa, Chief relocated to the USA during the 1950s, where he spent time learning the blues in Arkansas and Louisiana before relocating to Phoenix in the 1970s. He worked as a featured vocalist in various Phoenix based bands including Chief & The Good Time Rollers, The Tommy Dukes Blues Band, The Rhythm Room All-Stars, Blues Connection, Nightshift, and The Blues Keepers. His 2004 CD, Snakes Crawls at Night on the Random Chance record label (produced by Bob Corritore) brought him worldwide attention (to see many wonderful reviews, click here; for more information on this CD, click here; and to see the cover art, click here). We are proud to see Chief receive this acknowledgment of his great talent. Congratulations also to Marty Kool (Tucson's blues radio king!), Marx Lobe, and Ed Delucia who join Chief as 2008 inductees in the Arizona Blues Hall Of Fame! To see the ABHOF website, click here.
Forthcoming Back To The Roots Magazine to feature Bob Corritore Cover Story! This just in: The soon-to-be-released new issue of Belgium's Back To The Roots Magazine will feature a Bob Corritore cover story by editor Franky Bruneel. Back To The Roots is one of Europe's leading blues publications, and Bob is honored to be featured in such a fine magazine. Franky asked Bob a wide range of thoughtful questions concerning both Bob's early Chicago days and his relocation to Phoenix, Arizona. The cover will feature a beautiful photo of Bob by playing at the 2007 Lucerne Blues Festival by photographer Aigars Lapsa. To see the cover of the forthcoming Back To The Roots Magazine, click here.

October 9, 2008

This Weekend at the Rhythm Room: This weekend at the Rhythm Room features two big events: our dear friends, the Smokin' Joe Kubek Band featuring B'Nois King appear Friday night (October 10, 2008), bringing their rockin' Texas blues to Arizona. On Saturday (October 11, 2008), it's a birthday party for "Arizona's King of the Blues", Big Pete Pearson. To see the flier for Big Pete's birthday bash, click here. The Rhythm Room is located at 1019 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix, AZ 85014. Doors open at 8pm both nights, cover charge is $10 Friday and $7 Saturday. Rack Shack Barbeque will be available at these events. These nights will be patio smoking only events; no indoor smoking will be permitted.
International Page Added to B obCorritore.com! Visitors to B obCorritore.com can now access text in multiple languages. Simply click on the flags on the lower left of Bob's home page. These links will take visitors to texts in nine languages (Deutsch, Español, Français, Italiano, Magyar, Nederlands, Norsk, Polski, & Pусский язык). Bob appreciates his exposure on the national and international blues scene, and Bob welcomes press and reviews written in any language.
Paris James, Bob Corritore & Big Pete Pearson to Perform at The Farm next Thursday: On Thursday, October 16, 2008, Bob Corritore will appear at The Farm at South Mountain, 6106 S. 32nd St., Phoenix, AZ 85042, with Paris James and Big Pete Pearson. The show will start at 8pm. Visit The Farm at South Mountain's website for more details.
Tickets Now On Sale for Blues Blast Music Awards Ceremony: You can now purchase tickets online to the 2008 Blues Blast Music Awards happening Sunday, November 2, 2008 at Buddy Guy's Legends, 754 S. Wabash Avenue, Chicago, IL 60605. Featured acts include nominees Magic Slim &; The Teardrops, Lurrie Bell, Nick Moss, John Németh, The Kilborn Alley Blues Band, Dave Riley & Bob Corritore, Eden Brent, Sugar Ray Norcia, Teeny Tucker, Tim "Too Slim" Langford (from Too Slim and the Taildraggers), Gina Sicilia, and others. Dave Riley and Bob Corritore were nominated for "Best Traditional Blues Recording" for Travelin' The Dirt Road on the Blue Witch Record Label. To purchase advance tickets, click here.
Tomcat Courtney: #2 on French Powerblues Charts! Tomcat Courtney's stunning new CD, Downsville Blues on Blue Witch Records, appears as #2 on France's Powerblues charts in the July/August report. Tomcat, now 79 years old is a true keeper of the Texas country blues flame and his music has been compared to that of Lightnin' Hopkins. To see the Powerblues charts, click here and scroll down to the July/August section.
Chris James & Patrick Rynn CD Gets More Great Reviews: Chris and Patrick's CD, Stop And Think About It on Earwig Music, continues to get critical acclaim. Chris reports that it made #6 on the September Living Blues Radio Charts. New reviews from Jazz & Blues Report, Blue Suede News, Exclaim! (Canada) and Cruisin’ For A Bluesin' have recently been posted on their website. To see these and other reviews, click here.
Bob Corritore Recent Media Coverage: Special thanks to Roy Prescott and his Blues Summit radio show from 93.5 WMWV of Conway, New Hampshire. Roy did a live phone interview on Wednesday, October 8, 2008 with Bob, and featured many of Bob's recordings. Check out this Arizona Daily Star article by Gerald Gay highlighting Bob Corritore as it advanced The Rhythm Room All-Stars' show at Old Town Artisans last month. To see this article, click here. The Rhythm Room All-Stars (Big Pete Pearson, Chris James, Patrick Rynn, Brian Fahey, and Bob Corritore) recently appeared on a German public television special that featured highlights of the Lahnstein Blues Festival. Bob Margolin emailed to report that he happened to see the program while on tour last week in Switzerland. Thanks to Roy, Gerald, and the Lahnstein Blues Festival for spreading the news about Bob.

October 5, 2008

Rhythm Room All-Stars, Rhythm Room Concert Club, and KJZZ get Best Of Phoenix Awards! Once again, the Rhythm Room has won the New Times Best Of Phoenix editorial award for "Best Blues Club" (click here for the New Times' full description). The readers' poll also picked the Rhythm Room as the "Best Blues Club" and KJZZ for "Best Blues/Jazz Radio Station" (click here to view). In another category, The Rhythm Room All-Stars were named as the "Best Monthly Blues Jam" (click here for the New Times full description). Thank you to the New Times and its readers for their recognition and these wonderful awards.
Watermelon Slim Harmonica Protégé Craig Lawler Passes: Watermelon Slim reports with sadness the passing of his friend and harmonica student, Craig Lawler, from Stillwater, Oklahoma. Though never recorded, Slim reports that Craig became an amazing player with a mastery of seven different positions (or musical keys) on any one harmonica. Craig passed at 5:30pm on September 6, 2008, after a courageous battle with inoperable kidney cancer. He was 33. For more information on Craig, stop by Watermelon Slim’s website by clicking here.
Earl Palmer Tribute featured on Bob's Radio Show this Sunday: Tune in to a tribute to Earl Palmer, one of the greatest drummers of all time. Bob will be playing sets each hour featuring Earl Palmer's drumming. Included in the tribute will be Earl's work with Professor Longhair, Little Richard, Smiley Lewis, Dave Bartholomew, Fats Domino, Etta James, Richard Berry, Johnny Otis, Shirley and Lee, Lloyd Price, Amos Milburn, Don and Dewey, Joe Turner, Johnny Fuller, and others. Listeners may hear Those Lowdown Blues, anywhere in the world (real time Sunday nights from 6pm-11pm Phoenix time) via web streaming by clicking here, or on KJZZ in Phoenix at 91.5 FM in Phoenix, Arizona, 89.5 in Cottonwood, 98.9 in Tucson, and 99.1 in Kingman.
Jimmy Rogers with Big Walter on YouTube! Check out this wonderful 1970's film clip of two masters of Chicago Blues playing together. Jimmy Rogers sets it up for Big Walter Horton to really play. Check out Big Walter's characteristic amazing harmonica tone (click here to view).
Blues Blast Music Award Ceremony announces lineup of performers: Blues Blast Magazine, an online publication that is an extension of Illinois Blues, will host the 2008 Blues Blast Music Awards on Sunday, November 2, 2008 from 7pm to Midnight at Buddy Guy's Legends, 754 S. Wabash Avenue, Chicago, IL 60605. Tickets are $25, and are available online at www.illinoisblues.com starting October 7, 2008. The Blues Blast Music Award Ceremony will include confirmed appearances by nominees Magic Slim & The Teardrops, Lurrie Bell, Nick Moss, John Németh, The Kilborn Alley Blues Band, Dave Riley & Bob Corritore, Eden Brent, Sugar Ray Norcia, Teeny Tucker, Tim "Too Slim" Langford (from Too Slim and the Taildraggers), and Gina Sicilia. Bob Kieser of Blues Blast Magazine reports, "There may be a few surprise appearances by other nominees". Dave Riley and Bob Corritore were nominated for "Best Traditional Blues Recording" for Travelin' The Dirt Road on the Blue Witch Record Label.
Germany recap: After a nice run of September shows including a weekend at the Rhythm Room, a wonderful show at Old Town Artisans in Tucson for Jonathan Holden's Rhythm And Roots Concert Series, and the fantastic Bisbee Blues Festival, The Rhythm Room All-Stars continued their busy month with a festival appearance at the Lahnstein Blues Festival in Germany. Though Chris James, Patrick Rynn, and Brian Fahey had played Germany numerous times before, this was a first for Big Pete Pearson and myself. Lahnstein is a beautiful area of Germany, with surrounding forests, wonderful timeless architecture, cobblestone streets, and a spectacular view of the Rhine River. Volker Abold was the agent responsible for bringing us to this festival. He saw the band performing last year at the Lucerne Blues Festival. While in Lahnstein, I was able to connect with my longtime friend, Louisiana Red, who Chris James and I backed up for part of his set at the festival. It was great to see his wife Dora also, who presented me with Red’s CD Blues Classics, which reissues selections from various L+R releases by Louisiana Red. On the CD is the song “Arizona Blues”, which I previously had only on vinyl. “Arizona Blues” recalls Red’s stay in Phoenix during 1982, and Red sings my name in one of the verses. The festival was held at a beautiful auditorium called the Stadthalle Lahnstein. In addition to The Rhythm Room All-Stars and Louisiana Red, the bill included Rudy Rotta, The Lahnstein Blues All-Stars, and Lars Vegas and the Love Gloves. Also included in the festival was an award presentation to Siegfried Schmidt-Joos, for his book Rock Lexikon. Professor Günther Kieser, who also designed the classic guitar posters for the American Folk Blues Festival, designed the poster for the festival. To see this poster, click here. It was an honor to have the headlining slot of this festival, and to play to a full house of enthusiastic blues fans. After a warm introduction by moderator Thomas Breuer, I was presented with a birthday cake (the festival date was my actual birthday) before we rocked through our set, starting out with selections from Chris James and Patrick Rynn ’s new album, Stop And Think About It. Then we were joined by Big Pete Pearson, whose natural showmanship and charisma filled up the auditorium. Towards the end of our set, we were joined by Louisiana Red who played some wicked slide guitar on “Possum Up A Tree”. Special thanks to all the staff and leadership of the festival: Volker Abold, Leo Gehl, Sonja Graf, Markus Graf, Walter Nourortne, Renzo Panciera, Christian Pfarr, Fritz Rau, Tom Schroeder, and Michael Stoll. We were treated with great hospitality, and the audience was just wonderful. Thanks for this great experience. To read Franz "Shen" Deckarm's review of the concert (in German), click here.

–Bob Corritore

September 22, 2008

Nappy Brown Funeral Information: Arrangements have been made for Nappy Brown’s funeral. The viewing will be 1pm-1:30pm on Saturday, September 27, 2008, with services to follow. Both the viewing and the service will be held at:

St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church

1401 Allen St.

Charlotte, NC 28205

Tel: (704)334-5309

Fax: (704)376-0072

September 21, 2008

RIP Earl Palmer 10/25/1924-9/19/2008: Legendary New Orleans drummer Earl Palmer passed away on Friday. He was 83. Earl Palmer was simply one of the greatest drummers of all time. He created a number of distinctive beats and drum accents that became synonymous with the early sound. of Rock 'N Roll. Can you imagine Little Richard's "Lucille" or Fats Domino's "I'm Walkin'" without Earl Palmer's catchy beat? His session credits from both New Orleans and his later home of Los Angeles read like the greatest hits of all music, but his contributions to early Rock 'N Roll are perhaps his most influential. To read the LA Times obituary, which contains a beautifully written biographical overview of Earl Palmer's amazing musical life and achievements, click here. Thank you, Earl Palmer, for the grooves!

September 21, 2008

RIP Nappy Brown 10/12/1929-9/20/2008: The legendary blues shouter Nappy Brown left us Saturday, September 20, 2008 at 10:30 pm. He was 78. In addition to being blessed with one of the greatest voices the blues has ever known, Nappy was a true character, and his action-packed stage performances were simply amazing. He had experienced a comeback of late after the release of his brilliant 2007 CD Long Time Coming, produced by longtime Nappy friend and advocate Scott Cable for the Blind Pig record label. He was born Napoleon Brown Culp on Oct 12, 1929 in Charlotte, North Carolina, and started his music career singing gospel before switching to Rhythm & Blues in the early 1950s. He landed a contract with Savoy Records in 1954 which yielded numerous hits, including “Don't Be Angry”, “I Cried Like A Baby”, and “Night Time Is The Right Time” (which Ray Charles would cover shortly afterwards). His music career had a resurgence in the 1980s with albums on Alligator, Ichiban, and Black Top. He also made guest appearances on albums by Bob Margolin and Bob Corritore, as well as appearing on the Rhythm Room Blues anthology released on HighTone (Nappy's photo appeared on the cover of that CD). His powerhouse performance last May at the 2008 Blues Music Awards ceremony was the highlight of that event. Shortly after that, Nappy was hospitalized; and never was able to get his health back. Information regarding his services (forthcoming on Saturday, September 27, 2008) will be posted as it comes in. Bob Corritore will play a number of sets of Nappy's unforgettable music throughout the course of his 5 hour show tonight; listeners may hear Those Lowdown Blues, anywhere in the world (real time Sunday nights from 6pm-11pm Phoenix time) via web streaming by clicking here, or on KJZZ in Phoenix at 91.5 FM in Phoenix, Arizona, 89.5 in Cottonwood, 98.9 in Tucson, and 99.1 in Kingman. Rest in peace, Nappy.

September 18, 2008

Big Pete Pearson & the Rhythm Room All-Stars perform Friday at the Old Town Artisans in Tucson: This weekend's schedule for Big Pete Pearson & The Rhythm Room All-Stars begins with a show at Old Town Artisans, 201 N. Court, Tucson, AZ 85701 in the downtown Tucson area on Friday, September 19, 2008 at 7:30pm. This is part of Jonathan Holden's amazing Rhythm And Roots Concert Series (click here to find out more about this series). Gerald Gay interviewed Bob Corritore for a piece in Tucson's Arizona Daily Star, which should be out in advance of the show. To see the press release for this show, click here.
Bisbee Blues Festival This Saturday! Big Pete Pearson & The Rhythm Room All-Stars (Big Pete Pearson, Chris James, Patrick Rynn, Brian Fahey, and Bob) will appear Saturday, September 20, 2008 at the Bisbee Blues Festival in the historic and beautiful border town of Bisbee, Arizona. Also on the show will be Austin music legend Doyle Bramhall. Other acts on the bill are Blue Mystics, 56 Deluxe, Hans Olson, Train Wreck, and other great acts. If you are having a hard time finding a hotel room in Bisbee, then please note that the close-by neighboring towns of Sierra Vista and Tombstone also have hotel accommodations. Big Pete Pearson & The All-Stars' set is at 5pm, and will be followed by Doyle Bramhall. Please note that there is a festival after-party planned at the Stock Exchange Bar. For more information, check out the fest website, which includes the radio ad that includes snippets of Bob Corritore's harmonica as the music bed (click here).
Little Arthur Memorial Benefit Friday in Chicago: The beloved Chicago blues harmonica ace Little Arthur Duncan passed away on August 20, 2008. There will be a musical celebration of his life on Friday, September 19, 2008 at 9:30pm, in Rosa's Lounge, 3420 W. Armitage, Chicago IL 60647. Appearing at this event will be many of Chicago's top players including Little Arthur's band, The Back Scratchers (Illinois Slim, Rick Kreher, Michael Azzi, and Twist Turner) as well as Tail Dragger, Zora Young, Billy Boy Arnold, Eddie Taylor, Jr., Eddie C. Campbell, Mud Morganfield, Vernon and Joe Harrington, Little Al Thomas, Justin O'Brien, and many more! Little Arthur was an amazing talent and a great man.
Lahnsteiner Blues Festival in Germany next weekend! Big Pete Pearson & The Rhythm Room All-Stars (Big Pete Pearson, Chris James, Patrick Rynn, Brian Fahey, and Bob), will appear at the Lahnsteiner Blues Festival in Germany on Saturday, September 27, 2008. Also on this show is Bob's longtime friend and musical partner, Louisiana Red. The festival site now displays beautiful poster for the event, which can be seen by clicking here. Check out the festival MySpace by clicking here. This festival takes place on Bob Corritore's actual birthday (note that the party in Phoenix last weekend was the closest that Bob could schedule to his actual birthday). Big Pete Pearson & The Rhythm Room All-Stars are excited to make their debut performance in Germany!
Chris and Patrick's CD is Making Waves! The new Earwig CD by Chris James and