TINSLEY ELLIS TO RELEASE NEW ALBUM
ON ALLIGATOR RECORDS!

Alligator Records has set a June 26 release date for MOMENT OF TRUTH, the blistering new CD from guitarist/ vocalist/ songwriter Tinsley Ellis. Tinsley’s hometown paper, The Atlanta Journal Constitution, calls his music, “a potent, amazing trip through electric blues-rock.” Rolling Stone said, “feral blues guitar…non-stop gigging has sharpened his six-string to a razor’s edge…his eloquence dazzles…he achieves pyrotechnics that rival Jeff Beck and Eric Clapton.” MOMENT OF TRUTH is Ellis’ lyrically deepest, most guitar driven and aggressive album of his career.

Produced by Ellis, MOMENT OF TRUTH captures all the power and energy of his legendary live performances. His vocals reach new heights of soulfulness and expressiveness; his guitar playing is ferocious and relentless, but, when the mood calls for it, gentle and moving. But what really sets the album apart is the depth of Ellis’ songwriting. The material deals in matters both personal and universal and runs the gamut of human emotions. MOMENT OF TRUTH is Ellis’ most wide-ranging and inspired recording.

Born in Atlanta in 1957, Ellis grew up in southern Florida and first played guitar at age eight. He found the blues through the backdoor of the British Invasion bands like The Yardbirds, The Animals, Cream, and The Rolling Stones. He especially loved the Kings – Freddie, B.B. and Albert – and spent hours immersing himself in their music. His love for the blues solidified when he was 14. At a B.B. King performance, Tinsley sat mesmerized in the front row. When B.B. broke a string on Lucille, he changed it without missing a beat, and handed the broken string to Ellis. After the show, B.B. came out and talked with fans, further impressing Tinsley with his warmth and down-to-earth attitude. By now Tinsley’s fate was sealed; he had to become a blues guitarist. And yes, he still has that string.

Already an accomplished teenaged musician, Ellis left Florida and returned to Atlanta in 1975. He soon joined the Alley Cats, a gritty blues band that included Preston Hubbard (of Fabulous Thunderbirds fame). In 1981, along with veteran blues singer and harpist Chicago Bob Nelson, Tinsley formed The Heartfixers, a group that would become Atlanta’s top-drawing blues band. After cutting Cool On It and Tore Up with The Heartfixers, Ellis was ready to head out on his own. He sent a copy of the master tape for his solo debut to Bruce Iglauer at Alligator Records. “I had heard Cool On It," recalls Iglauer, “and I was amazed. I hadn't heard Tinsley before, but he played like the guys with huge international reputations. It wasn't just his raw power; it was his taste and maturity that got to me. It had the power of rock but felt like the blues. I knew I wanted to hear more of this guy.”

GEORGIA BLUE, Tinsley’s first Alligator release, hit an unprepared public by surprise in 1988. Critics and fans quickly agreed that a new and original guitar hero had emerged. Before long, Alligator arranged to reissue COOL ON IT and TORE UP, thus exposing Tinsley’s blistering earlier music to a growing fan base. Tinsley’s next releases, 1989’s FANNING THE FLAMES, 1992’s TROUBLE TIME, 1994’s STORM WARNING and 1997’s FIRE IT UP  (produced by the legendary Tom Dowd), solidified Ellis’ reputation as a guitar hero with depth and substance.

Ellis’ 2005 return to Alligator (after short stints with Capricorn and Telarc Records), the searing guitar-fueled LIVE-HIGHWAYMAN, was the live recording his fans had been demanding for years. Recorded at a packed club just outside Chicago, the CD takes Ellis’ extended soloing and heartfelt vocals to staggering heights. The Chicago Tribune said, “Incendiary live performances, inspired, original and funky.” 

Averaging over 150 live shows a year, Ellis has played in all 50 states, as well as Canada, Europe, Australia and South America. Whether he’s out with his own band or sharing stages with The Allman Brothers, Robert Cray, Koko Taylor or Widespread Panic, he spreads his jaw-dropping licks, thunderous axe work and intense vocals everywhere he goes. With the massive touring supporting MOMENT OF TRUTH, Ellis will bring his high-energy, guitar-drenched performances to people all over the world. Tinsley Ellis’ time has come. For him and his growing legion of fans, the moment of truth is now.

MARC LIPKIN

Dear Friedrich,

Good grief folks, things just keeping better and it's starting to heat up in our neighborhood this week. Plus Memorial Day weekend & the Jazz Jubilee is here!

First off, Kyla Brox (from England) is making a number of appearances in our area. She will be performing at the Blue Room Lounge Tuesday night - followed by a gig at the Torch Club on Thursday - then she will perform up in the foothills at the St. George Hotel in Volcano on Saturday night - then at the Speakeasy in Old Sacramento on Sunday.

Secondly, don't miss Bryan Lee and The Blues Power Band at the Torch Club this Tuesday night. Bryan hails from New Orleans and is making his return to the Torch for another great show! This blind performer is special ...I highly recommend checking out Bryan and his band!

A few highlights on Friday include: Sonny Landreth & David Jacobs Strain at The Palms; Blues Farm at Constable Jack's; Johnny "Guitar" Knox & The Soothers in Rocklin; and Terry Evans at da Torch Club.

To round things out, the Lara Price Band will be recording their live show at the Torch Club on Saturday night.

Things are definitely heating up in our area! Get ready for the Northern California Blues Festival featuring JLW, Chris Cain, Shane Dwight, Lara Price, SFK & Steve Foster. SBS members will get a $10 discount ..check it out here. (this offer isn't advertised openly and doesn't appear on the web site ..it's only for 'card carrying' members of a blues society). Your card will be honored at the gate to receive the $10.00 discount.

Of course, the Jazz Jubilee is happening in Old Sacramento where one can see & here Mick Martin, Kathleen Cairns, NiteCry, Mike McGowan and "Catfish" performing BLUES on various stages. Click here for the Jazz Jubilee's web site. Have a great Memorial Day weekend!

Here is this week's complete line-up:

Mon. Tues. Wed. Thurs.
Monday: Blue Monday Open w/Jeramy Norris (8:00), Sidelines Sports Bar, Modesto =--= Blues Legends (8:00), Kimballs Carnival - Jack London Square, Oakland =--= Open Mic w/Dave Baldwin (7:30), Fox & Goose, Sacramento =--= The Bonedrivers (4:00), Lou's Pier 47, San Francisco 
Tuesday: Bryan Lee (9:00), Torch Club, Sacramento =--= Jam w/Dan Sadler (8:00), Callison's Bar & Grill, Sacramento =--= Kyla Brox (8:00), Blue Room Lounge - Clarion Hotel, Sacramento 
Wednesday: Acoustic w/Yasutaka & Friends (5:00), Torch Club, Sacramento =--= Americana Ramble w/Richard March (7:30), Marilyn's, Sacramento =--= Blues Jam w/Bluenatics (7:30), Stoney Inn, Sacramento =- -= Blues Jam w/Jeramy Norris (8:00), Sidelines, Modesto =--= Cole Rio Blues Band (8:00), Trino's Lounge, Sacramento =--= Daniel Castro (8:00), Lou's Pier 47, San Francisco =-- = Jam w/The Band With No Name (7:00), Yager's Tap House, Folsom =--= Jimmy Pailer Band (9:00), Torch Club, Sacramento =--= Redwood City Blues Jam (7:00), Little Fox Theater, Redwood City =--= SacBlues All Pro Jam w/ Steve Foster (8:00), Louie's Cocktail Lounge, Rancho Cordova 
Thursday: Acoustic w/Sherman Baker (5:00), Torch Club, Sacramento =--= Big Delta, Vinnie's (9:00) JJ's Blues Lounge, San Jose =-- = Blues Jam w/Equinox Blues Review (7:00), Vega's, Old Sacramento =--= Hucklebucks (8:00), Lou's Pier 47, San Francisco =--= Jazz Jam (8:00), Blue Room Lounge - Clarion Hotel, Sacramento =--= Jeramy Norris Band (4:00), Lou's Pier 47, San Francisco =--= Kyla Brox (9:00), Torch Club, Sacramento =--= Rusty Zinn (9:00), Mojo Lounge, Fremont =--= Terry Evans (8:00), Biscuits & Blues, San Francisco

FRIDAY, May 25
Acoustic Trio w/Pailer, Fratis & Taylor (5:00), Torch Club, Sacramento =--= Black Cat Bone (7:30), Bistro 33, Davis =--= Blues Farm (9:00), Constable Jack's, Newcastle =--= Blues Jam w/Rick Arnold (8:00), Drytown Club, Drytown =--= Daniel Castro (9:30), JJ's Blues Lounge, San Jose =--= Indigenous (9:30), Moe's Alley, Santa Cruz =--= Johnny "Guitar" Knox & The Soothers (6:00), Lucille's BBQ, Rocklin =--= Lightning Hand (8:00), Sacramento Brewing Company, Sacramento =- -= Little Charlie & The Nightcats (9:00), Café Van Cleefs, Oakland =--= Maxx Cabello (9:00), Lou's Pier 47, San Francisco =--= Rockinbocker (9:00), Elk Grove Brewery, Elk Grove =--= Sleeper (9:00), Pistol Pete's, Auburn =--= Spotted Dog Rockin' Blues Revue (9:00), River's Edge Bar & Grill, W. Sacramento =--= Sonny Landreth & David Jacobs Strain (8:30), The Palms, Winters =--= Sonny Rhodes (8:00 & 10:00), Biscuits & Blues, San Francisco =--= Terry Evans (9:00), Torch Club, Sacramento =--= Whitewater Blues Band Jam (8:00), Silver Dollar Saloon, Marysville

SATURDAY, May 26
Santa Cruz Blues Festival - Los Lonely Boys, Indigenous, Jackie Greene, Sonny Landreth, Roy Roger & the Delta Rhythm Kings (11:00) - Aptos Village Park, Aptos.

Alameda All Stars (9:30), Mojo Lounge, Fremont =--= Black Cat Bone (8:00), Sacramento Brewing Company, Sacramento =- -= Boots Blues Trio (5:00), Torch Club, Sacramento =--= Daniel Castro (9:30), Constable Jack's, Newcastle =--= Guitar Mac (noon), Lou's Pier 47, San Francisco =--= Harlee & The Sugar Daddies (9:00), Elk Grove Brewery, Elk Grove =--= Jeramy Norris Band (9:00), Iron Door Saloon, Groveland =--= Kyla Brox (6:30), St. George Hotel, Volcano =-- = Lara Price Band - Recording Live (9:00), Torch Club, Sacramento =--= Linda Bracamonte Band (8:30), Hacienda Del Rio, Folsom =--= Mitch Woods (8:00 & 10:00), Biscuits & Blues, San Francisco =--= Little Charlie & The Nightcats (9:30), Powerhouse Pub, Folsom =--= Richie Barron Band (1:00), Bridge On The River - Garden Hwy, Sacramento =--= Sacramento Blues Revue (1:00), 2 Grand Saloon, Old Sacramento =--= Shane Dwight Blues Band (9:00), Lou's Pier 47, San Francisco =--= The Bonedrivers (9:00), Old Princeton Landing, Half Moon Bay =--= The Boneshackers (9:30), Moe's Alley, Santa Cruz =--= The Detours (1:00), The Old Sugar Mill, Clarksburg =--= The Detours (9:00), Mark's Sports Bar & Grill, Folsom

SUNDAY, May 27
Santa Cruz Blues Festival - Etta James & The Roots Band, Little Feat, Robben Ford, Tommy Castro, Nina Storey (11:00) - Aptos Village Park, Aptos.

Allen Frank & The Leather Souls (4:00), Drytown Club, Drytown =--= Blues Jam w/Grant & Friends (4:00), Moon River Inn, Freeport =-- = Blues Jam w/Steve Hall & David Brown (5:00), Haven's Acre, Lathrop =--= Daniel Castro (4:00), Half Moon Bay Brewing Co., Half Moon Bay =--= Gove Scrivenor (7:00), Cozmic Cafe, Placerville =--= Jam w/Dave Channell (5:00), Tumbleweed Inn, Rancho Cordova =--= Jam w/Morning Wood Blues Band (3:00), Rumors Sports Bar & Grill, Sacramento =--= Jeramy Norris Band (2:00), Paradise Bar & Grill, Bethel Island =--= Kyla Brox (3:00, The Speakeasy, Old Sacramento =--= Maxx Cabello (4:00), Lou's Pier 47, San Francisco =--= Sacramento Blues Revue (1:00), 2 Grand Saloon, Old Sacramento =--= Showcase Blues Jam w/Jimmy Pailer (5:00), Torch Club, Sacramento =--= Stacie Eakes & The Superfreakes (9:00), Torch Club, Sacramento =--= Sunday Blues Jam w/Steve Mears & Probable Cause (8:00), Powerhouse Pub, Folsom =--= Tommy Castro (9:30), Moe's Alley, Santa Cruz =--= Wingnut Adams Blues Band (4:00), Rusty Porthole, Bethel Island

COMING SOON !!

Saturday, June 2 - Roy Rogers & The Delta Rhythm Kings (8:00), The Palms Playhouse, Winters.
Friday, June 8 - Andy Keane & Kinda Blue (9:30), Constable Jack's, Newcastle.
Saturday, June 9 - Coloma Live - The Fabulous Thunderbirds, Coco Montoya, Sista Monica, Albert Cummings, Mick Martin & The Blues Rockers (2:00), Henningsen-Lotus Park, Lotus near Coloma.
Friday, June 15 - Brad Wilson (9:00), Torch Club, Sacramento.

Keep supporting your Sacramento Blues Society, worthy benefits, the blues clubs and festivals around your area!

Save me a seat,

Willie

May 20, 2007

>>>>> Paris James and Bob Corritore with very special guest Big Pete Pearson this Tuesday at the Farm: Bob Corritore will appear at The Farm at South Mountain, 6106 S. 32nd St, Phoenix, AZ 85042, with Paris James and Big Pete Pearson. Call (602)276-6360 for further information.

>>>>> Chico Chism Birthday Memorial This Wednesday at the Rhythm Room: Hosted by George Vaught and the Flamekeepers, who were Chico's very last band. Bob will make a brief appearance with Big Pete Pearson and guitarist Mike Howard at this event honoring the late Chico Chism. This event takes place at the Rhythm Room Phoenix, AZ; doors open at 7pm, a minimum donation of $5 is asked (goes toward unpaid funeral expenses). This will be a patio smoking only event, no indoor smoking will be permitted.

>>>>> Big Pete Pearson & The Rhythm Room All-Stars with guest guitarst Little Frank This Friday & Saturday at the Rhythm Room: The Rhythm Room All-Stars featuring Big Pete Pearson are excited to have "Little Frank" Krakowski join us for the weekend as he is a deep Chicago blues guitarist. You may know his playing from his excellent performances on the Willie "Big Eyes" Smith CD Way Back on the HighTone Record label, Little Frank plays regularly in the Willie "Big Eyes" Smith Blues Band and also works with Pinetop Perkins, Hubert Sumlin, and Kim Wilson. This event takes place at the Rhythm Room Phoenix, AZ; doors open at 8pm, cover charge is $6. These nights will be patio smoking only events, no indoor smoking will be permitted.

Special Thanks To The Cascade Blues Association: In the last two issues of Portland, Oregon's Cascade Blues Association Newsletter, they ran a two-part feature of commentary on the late harmonica master Paul deLay. Special thanks to president Greg Johnson for including Bob's reflections on this great bluesman in this feature.

>>>>> Bob Corritore

May 22nd marks the release of the new Crucial Blues series from Alligator Records but you can order yours right now! Buy all three and save!!!! Each of these budget priced releases contains at least 12 tracks of masterful blues from some of the best-known names in the genre, perfect for serious fans and newcomers alike. As with all Crucial Blues titles, these new editions contain no repeat tracks from any previous Alligator Records collections! Crucial Rockin' Blues

Highlights some of our rockin-est tracks from Coco Montoya, Johnny Winter, Lonnie Mack w/ Stevie Ray Vaughan, Shemekia Copeland, Roy Buchanan, Tinsley Ellis, The Holmes Brothers, Lil' Ed & The Blues Imperials, The Paladins, Guitar Shorty, Lee Rocker, and Dave Hole. Order CRUCIAL ROCKIN' BLUES for the low price of $7.98 (including free U.S. shipping)!!! CLICK HERE TO BUY NOW More Crucial Guitar Blues

Features more electrifying guitar performances by Albert Collins, Luther Allison, Lonnie Brooks, Elvin Bishop, Son Seals, Michael Burks, Little Charlie & The Nightcats, Roomful Of Blues, Lucky Peterson, Long John Hunter, Kenny Neal, and W.C. Clark. Order MORE CRUCIAL GUITAR BLUES for the low price of $7.98 (including free U.S. shipping)!!! CLICK HERE TO BUY NOW Crucial Acoustic Blues

Showcases dynamic acoustic performances by Kenny Neal & Billy Branch, Koko Taylor w/ Keb' Mo', Buddy Guy & Junior Wells, Cephas & Wiggins, Lonnie Mack w/ Stevie Ray Vaughan, Sonny Terry, Johnny Winter, Saffire-The Uppity Blues Women, John Jackson, Corey Harris, Carey & Lurrie Bell, Bob Margolin w/ Nappy Brown, and Johnny Jones. Order CRUCIAL ACOUSTIC BLUES for the low price of $7.98 (including free U.S. shipping)!!! CLICK HERE TO BUY NOW The Crucial Blues 3-Pack

Buy all 3 and save! The Crucial Blues 3-Pack is now available for the low price of $21.98!!! Simply order the Crucial Blues 3-Pack and you'll receive Crucial Rockin' Blues, More Crucial Guitar Blues, and Crucial Acoustic Blues. Order the CRUCIAL BLUES 3-PACK for special price of $21.98 (including free U.S. shipping)!!! CLICK HERE TO BUY NOW For more information on anything Alligator, go to www.alligator.com or if you have specific questions about our online store or anything in our catalog, you can call us toll-free at 1.800.344.5609.

Bringing you the best houserockin' music for over 35 years, Alligator Records

Now you can listen to over 225 songs from the Alligator catalog on our online jukebox at www.alligator.com

Dear all,

BlueBridge Network International is proud to present to you the current tour offer from our Artists connected with the request for attention and kind reply. 

Promotion and information material on the tour packages can be mailed out to you immediately, but for more details on the artist, the tours and the dates please also visit our website at www.bluebridge-network.com or contact us directly anytime at your convenience.

Don't miss out to reserve YOUR dates for these incredible tour offers for your city/country, as availability is and becomes more restricted as we go along. 

We are looking forward to your much appreciated response. In the meantime we would like to thank you for your kind consideration and replies.

Always the best and cheers to the Blues.

Ray, Georges and the network team

Biscuits & Blues is proud to present ragtime bluesman Baby Gramps on Saturday, May 19th at 8pm and 10pm at the club, 401 Mason Street, San Francisco. Opening both shows will be English singer-songwriter Kyla Brox.

Tickets are $15, the show is all-ages and reservations can be made by phone at (415) 292-BLUES or online at  www.biscuitsandblues.com

A combination of busker, poet and bluesman, Baby Gramps has recently gained national attention and a spotlight on the David Letterman Show for his collaboration on a collection of pirate songs produced by Johnny Depp called "Rogue's Gallery" (Anti), a two-disc set of sea chanteys. Gramps' original track "Mermaids" opens the album and that's saying a lot: among the other contributors are Sting, Lou Reed, Lucinda Williams, Bono, a gravel-voiced Bryan Ferry, a midnight-voiced Nick Cave, a twee Van Dyke Parks and Bill Frisell with a beautiful guitar track. See and hear Gramps at www.babygramps.com.

Recent press paints Baby Gramps as a Seattle artist who interprets songs with the impatient philosophy of a deranged chef hastily preparing an unthawed game hen: as long as the meat's there, everyone should be happy at the table. His no-frills, knee-jerk attack, mixed with a staunch refusal to perform a song the same way twice, ensures the beautiful spontaneity that slips through the cracks in a Baby Gramps show. Hacking away at a National steel guitar, he performs a stylistic combination of jazz, blues, folk and sea chanteys with an unconventional singing style defined as much by what is overlooked (timbre, resonance) as what is doted on (throat singing, strange gurglings). Nobody knows exactly how old Baby Gramps is, but everyone who has seen him perform has never forgotten the experience. (North BayBohemian)

Baby Gramps performed on The Late Show with David Letterman Aug. 28, 2006 backed up by Tony Garnier (Bob Dylan's band leader and bass player), The Akron Family, and Jason Krekel from "The Mad Tea Party". He was promoting the "Rogues Gallery; Pirate Ballads, Sea Songs, and Chanteys" CD that was produced by Johnny Depp, Gore Verbinski, and Hal Willner in connection with the new "Pirates of the Caribbean" movie. He has two songs on the CD, the very first song, and the only original. On the CD he is backed up by Bill Frisell, Phillip Morgan from The Cutters, and The Akron Family. Some of the other performers on the CD are Bono, Sting, Bob Neuwirth, Bryan Ferry, Bill Frisell, Martin Carthy, Richard Thompson, Nick Cave, Loudon Wainwright III, Rufus Wainwright & Kate McGarrigle, Lucinda Williams, Three Pruned Men, and Lou Reed.

NPR (National Public Radio) All Things Considered interviewed Hal Willner Sept. 19th about "Rogues Gallery" They talked about Baby Gramps and played part of his recording of "Cape Cod Girls". You can hear itat www.npr.org.  There is also a link on the Baby Gramps website.

This past summer he was filmed for a documentary about the history of busking produced by John McEuen (Nitty Gritty Dirt Band). Other performers filmed for the movie include Dylan, Ramblin' Jack Elliot, Dave Matthews, Steve Martin, Jerry Jeff Walker, and Ani DiFranco.

For more information call Bay Area Booking at (866) 439-6483

Ed Ivey

May 17, 2007

Bo Diddley Health Update: This just in from the Associated Press, 7:30 pm Thursday, May 17, 2007: OMAHA, Neb. (AP) Four days after suffering a stroke, Bo Diddley walked around the intensive-care unit at Creighton University Medical Center, and doctors were encouraged that the singer-song writer-guitarist would be able to perform again, his manager said. The 78-year-old Diddley told his audience that he wasn't feeling well during a show in Council Bluffs, Iowa, on Saturday night. Diddley's manager, Margo Lewis, said she had the Rock and Roll Hall of Famer taken to the hospital by ambulance when he appeared disoriented at the Omaha airport on Sunday. Though Diddley's speech is impaired, he's made significant progress.

May 17, 2007

>>>>> Bo Diddley Hospitalized: This just in: Blues and Rock & Roll legend Bo Diddley is in intensive care after suffering a stroke, following a performance in Council Bluffs, Iowa. The AOL entertainment site has this information posted as of this morning:

"Veteran singer and songwriter Bo Diddley is in intensive care after suffering a stroke. The 78-year-old guitarist and Rock and Roll Hall of Famer was said to be in a "guarded" condition at Creighton University Medical Centre in Omaha, Nebraska, said Susan Clary, a publicist for the musician's management team. Diddley, who has a history of hypertension and diabetes, was taken to hospital on Sunday following a concert in Council Bluffs, Iowa, in which he became disoriented, she said. Tests indicated that the stroke affected the left side of his brain, impairing his speech and speech recognition. Clary said she has no other details on Diddley's condition, or how long he would be in intensive care. Diddley, with his black glasses and low-slung guitar, has been an icon in the music industry since he topped the R&B charts with "Bo Diddley" in 1955. His other hits include "Who Do You Love", "Before You Accuse Me", "Mona" and "I'm a Man". Diddley was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987, and was given a lifetime achievement Grammy in 1998."

Bo Diddley's impact on the world of blues and rock and roll cannot be overstated. Bob Corritore has had a long history with Bo Diddley. Bob regularly organized back-up bands for and performed with Bo when he was coming into Phoenix for concert dates during the 80s and 90s. Bo Diddley also made a guest appearance on Bob Corritore's All-Star Blues Sessions on HighTone Records (a 1999 CD release), where Bo contributed a zesty remake of his classic "Little Girl". Let's hope and pray for a speedy and full recovery for this musical icon whose famous songs are so close to our hearts.

To access Bo Diddley's website, click here.

Here are some links to some photos of Bo that are on Bob's website:

Bo Diddley and Bob in the studio: click here

Bo in Performance: click here

Bo and Bob performing at the Mason Jar in 1990: click here

Bo Diddley in session (without hat): click here

>>>>> Bob Corritore

I just returned from Memphis where I had the pleasure and great honor representing Delmark at the National Blues Music Awards held in May.  Although we didn't return home to Chicago with first place "Handys" in our hands, we had an absolute blast meeting many great blues folk and experiencing a dizzying array of outstanding traditional and contemporary blues from around the country.

The charismatic and lovely Zora Young, up for traditional female artist of the year, put on a powerful and moving performance of her fantastic original song "Toxic!" from "Tore Up From The Floor Up" (DE 784) backed by our talented friends Nick Moss and the Flip Tops with Eddie Taylor, Jr.  Delmark's two highly acclaimed mid '70's live club recordings from Chicago's WXRT UnConcert series, Otis Rush's "Live at Wise Fools Pub" (DE 781) and Junior Wells' "Live at Theresa's" (DE 787) had stiff competition from the John Lee Hooker box set in the historical album of the year category.  Stay tuned for more exciting Delmark releases from this UnConcert series of live Chicago club dates from the seventies!  Two of the legends of that thrilling "Chicago West Side sound" that we all love will make your "soul fixed" by the "master of menacing tone."

Speaking of Chicago blues guitar heroes and the BMA's, a special shout out to our dear friend Lurrie Bell, who was up for guitarist of the year (the outerspace guitar of Hubert Sumlin triumphed.)  Please keep Lurrie in your thoughts and heartfelt prayers in that he has had a devastatingly tough year, losing his long time companion Susan Greenberg and now recently his father, Carey Bell.  Lurrie is doing amazingly well, grateful for his worldwide friends and fans, and especially the music!  Delmark is especially proud and excited about our spankin' new release on DVD and CD from Carey and Lurrie Bell, Getting Up (DVD 1791/DE 791), which was recorded last summer from Rosa's Lounge, Buddy Guy's Legends, and an informal home session at Lurrie's home.  This has got to some of the deepest, most emotional blues you can experience anywhere!  Lurrie pleads "Stand By Me, Lord, help me bear this heavy load"- Amen, Lurrie!

The world renowned Chicago Blues Fest will be happening soon in June with another stellar line up of local and national heavies, including Delmark artists Jimmy Dawkins (June 7, Petrillo), Magic Slim (June 9, Petrillo), Sunnyland Slim tribute with Steve Freund, Bob Stroger, Kenny Smith, Big Time Sarah (June 10, Petrillo), Ken Saydak, Dave Specter with Aron Burton, Aaron Moore , Lurrie Bell, Little Arthur Duncan, Eddie Shaw, and much more!  Make sure you head on over to the clubs after the Fest to catch Little Arthur and the Back Scratchers with special guests, like Little Al Thomas, at Reynold's Lounge at 938 E. 75th on June 9th, as well as Byther Smith, Michael Coleman, Jimmy Johnson, Jimmy Burns, and more at Buddy Guy's Legends!  A special thanks for all of the fantastic airplay and press for the recent Jimmy Burns release, Live at B.L.U.E.S (DE 789/DVD 1789.)

The first ever live release from the Chicago Underground nucleus of Rob Mazurek and Chad Taylor, Chronicle (DVD 1573, DE 573) is Delmark's most ambitious and visually/sonically stimulating DVD yet- "one of the most compelling jazz teams to come from the Chicago scene in the past few decades."- Dusty Groove.  Look for Rob Mazurek to perform at this year's Chicago Jazz Festival where the DVD will also be shown!!  Keefe Jackson's Fast Citizens (Ready Everyday, DE 571) will be performing at the Jazz Fest, as well as Von Freeman, Bill McFarland and the Chicago Horns, Ernest Dawkins (in a salute to Jimmy Ellis), and many more greats.  Make sure you head on over to Fred Anderson's Velvet Lounge to catch the most exciting live jazz in the city.

Kahil El' Zabar's recent release, Ethnic Heritage Ensemble's "Hot 'N' Heavy, Live at the Ascension Loft" is just what the title says and features an all star cast of Corey Wilkes, Ernest Dawkins, and Fareed Haque -"ancient rhythms coupled with forward looking improvisers have made the EHE one of Chicago's jazz treasures for more than a quarter century"- All Music Guide.   Kahil's newest release, Transmigration, (DE 576) is a wild live show with the 39 piece Infinity Orchestra from Bordeaux, France, along with friends, Ernest Dawkins and Joseph Bowie.

Looking ahead to our next DVD/CD recording, we are excited about documenting the Ari Brown Quartet at the world famous Green Mill on June 22, 23. On June 23rd, we will have a very special guest on "electric mud" guitar, Pete Cosey!!  Ari Brown and Pete Cosey are two of the greatest unsung heroes on the Chicago music scene, and we are thrilled about this much anticipated event for a future Delmark release.

A very heartfelt thanks goes out to our friends at Illinois Entertainer magazine who featured Delmark recently after spending a day at the Delmark and Riverside studios finding out how this little ol' family run label has stayed busy for almost 55 years documenting talented jazz and blues artists.

http://illinoisentertainer.com/2007/04/27/indie-label-month-inside-delmark/print

Kevin Johnson

Carey Bell RIP 1936-2007
We miss you Carey, Bonnie Lee, Willie Kent, Lockwood, Malachi Thompson...the list goes on, unfortunately. GO out and experience live music from the living legends!!

Born In The Honey ~ The Pinetop Perkins Story

When: Thursday, May 24, 2007 @ 8 p.m.
(Doors 7 p.m.)

Where: Antone’s, 213 W. 5^th Street, Austin,
TX 78701, 512.320.8424, www.antones.net

Charge: $12 GA, $30 for reserved seats, www.antones.net

Information: www.pinetopperkins.com, www.vizztone.com

Special Guests: Pinetop will be joined by Hubert Sumlin, Gary Clark Jr., Chris Layton, Scott Nelson, Riley Osborn and Buddy Flett.

May 15, 2007

>>>>> What a week: After an amazingly busy week filled with travel back and forth to Memphis, the 2007 Blues Music Awards, the Delta Groove Revue, three recording sessions (one with Diunna Greenleaf and the Bob Margolin Band and two with Tomcat Courtney), a photo shoot, a radio interview, and gigs with Bob Margolin with Diunna Greenleaf, Big Pete Pearson, and Tomcat Courtney, we finally can settle down enough to resume the newsletter.

>>>>> Big Joe Duskin passes: Cincinnati Blues pianist and vocalist Big Joe Duskin left us on Sunday, May 8, 2007. We found out about this after we sent out the notice of Carey Bell's passing (Big Joe and Carey passed away on the same day), and we were unable to send out a news blast in a timely fashion, as we were preparing for travel. For a complete bio on Big Joe Duskin, please refer to the Yellow Dog Records web site by clicking here. Bob had the pleasure of sitting next to Big Joe in 2005 at the Hall Of Fame dinner the night before the Handy Awards (now called Blues Music Awards). Click here to see a photo of Big Joe at that event.

>>>>> Last Week's Trip To Memphis: After flying in Tuesday night, Kim and I settled into our room at the Memphis Marriott in preparation of the busy week ahead. We started our activities Wednesday with a lunch at Automatic Slim's with our friend Steve Simon, best known as the person behind the St. John Blues Festival in the Virgin Islands, and also a board member of the Blues Foundation. Afterwards, we stopped in to the Blues Foundation office to say "hi" to Executive Director Jay Sieleman. Then, we headed back to the hotel, where the lobby seemed to be the hangout. That night we attended the Charter Members Dinner, which was also the awards presentation for the Blues Hall Of Fame. As was typical of the entire trip, this was a great reunion of longtime blues friends, and an introduction to some new ones. The event was hosted by blues radio heroes Bob Porter and Bill Wax, who were consummate emcees. The night featured memorable speeches by inductees Bobby Blue Bland, Dave Bartholomew, Dr. John, Dick Waterman, Scott Dirks, Ward Gaines, and Mark Carpentieri. We sat with Bob Auerbach (of HighJohn Records) and Johnny Tucker on one side of us, and Pat Morgan and Pinetop Perkins on the other. It was also great to see Mary Lockwood (Robert Jr.'s widow), who we had not seen since the funeral (though we have kept in touch by phone). It was especially exciting to see our close friend Scott Dirks (along with Ward Gaines) accept the award for Classics of Blues Literature for the Little Walter biography, Blues With A Feeling. Click here for a complete list of all the Blues Hall Of Fame inductees from this year's event.

The next morning began with a photo shoot for the new Dave Riley and Bob Corritore CD, which will be called Travelin' The Dirt Road, and will be out later this year on Blue Witch Records. Dave said he knew a pretty little dirt road just 20 minutes outside of Memphis in Walls, Mississippi (just before Tunica). Jen Taylor and Scott Allen were the photographers, and Dave was cracking us all up with his rowdy humor. From there, we went back to the hotel, where we attended a press conference for this year's nominees. It was especially great to see so many of our close friends up there on the nominees panel (Willie "Big Eyes" Smith, Bob Stroger, Janiva Magness, and on and on). Please note that while all this is going on, you could not get from one place to the other without saying hello to at least 20 people (the mark of a great party gathering). Then, Big Pete and I enjoyed a half-hour interview with Charlie Hussey for his radio program called Blues Train in Dublin, Ireland, Then, it was off to the Blues Music Awards, a wild marathon party where people from all parts of the industry gather (artists, promoters, club owners, publicists, labels, radio show hosts, journalists, festivals, managers, producers and, most importantly, fans). The night was filled with award presentations, speeches, live music by every sub-genre in the blues and a memorial section. We sat at the table with Big Pete Pearson, Candye Kane, Bill Stuve, and others which was a blast. Dave Riley was also in attendance. It was great to see all the respect and recognition that Big Pete was shown as a result of his current release I'm Here Baby, on Blue Witch Records In this year's memorial section our fallen heroes were remembered with a slide presentation. It was sad to say goodbye to so many including Floyd Dixon, Robert Lockwood, Jr., Carey Bell, Big Joe Duskin, Homesick James, Henry Townsend, Tina Mayfield, Jessie Mae Hemphill, Ruth Brown, Ahmet Ertegun, Paul deLay, Clifford Antone, H-Bomb Ferguson, and our beloved Chico Chism (who was the final goodbye in the presentation). Among the highlight performances that night. a rowdy, sexy show-stopper by Bobby Rush complete with his big-booty dancing girls, a touching ballad by Irma Thomas backed by Marcia Ball on the piano, a deep country blues performance by John Long, a stompin' set of Chicago Blues by Lil' Ed and the Blues Imperials, A tight soul revue led by The Jackie Payne/Steve Edmondson Band with guests Johnny Rawls, Sugar Pie DeSanto, Frankie Lee, and more, a great harmonica romp with Mark Hummel, Kim Wilson, Willie "Big Eyes" Smith, Johnny Dyer, Mitch Kashmar, and Magic Dick, a great Chicago blues set by Nick Moss & The Fliptops with guests Zora Young, Eddie Taylor Jr., and many more. The big winner of the night was Charlie Musslewhite, who took home four awards. Robert Lockwood, Jr. won Traditional Blues Male Artist Of The Year, and Mary Lockwood was there to receive it. Willie "Big Eyes" Smith got Best Blues Drummer, Eddie Shaw got Best Blues Horn player, Hubert Sumlin got best blues guitar, and Mookie Brill got the Blues Bass award. Lil' Ed and the Blues Imperials received the Best Blues Bands award. It was great to see my friend Janiva Magness win Contemporary Blues Female Artist Of the Year for the second year in a row. To see a complete list of winners click here. The 2007 Blues Music Awards was a memorable and historic night. Special thanks to The Blues Foundation's Executive Director Jay Sieleman, and everyone who works behind the scenes to put on this event.

The next day was all about the Second Annual Delta Groove All-Star Blues Revue. The event was sub-titled "West Coast Meets Chicago", as it combined the roster of artists from Delta Groove Music with that of Blue Bella Records out of Chicago (run by Nick and Kate Moss). Delta Groove chief Randy Chortkoff and his team put together a well organized, musically amazing showcase that include non-stop great performances from start to finish (all tough, no fluff). The event was co-hosted by Bill Wax, of XM Satellite Radio’s Bluesville Station and Brett Flemming of WEVL 89.9 (Memphis). This was a player's event and Big Pete Pearson and I were honored to be among the great list of featured performers which also included The Mannish Boys (with the all star lineup of Finis Tasby, Johnny Dyer, Kid Ramos, Paris Slim, Bobby Jones, Kirk Fletcher, Tom Leavey, Richard Innes, Leon Blue, and Randy Chortkoff who played some great Jimmy Reed-style harp in the set). Nick Moss & The Fliptops with guests Eddie Taylor Jr. and Bill Lupkin (former Jimmy Rogers harp player), The Hollywood Blue Flames (featuring killer harp by Big Al Blake, the legendary Larry Taylor on bass, and a great unscheduled appearance by Kim Wilson), Mitch Kashmar (playing masterful, definitive West Coast harmonica), Kilborn Alley Blues Band, Johnny Long, and The Jackie Payne/Steve Edmondson Band. So many great harmonica players were in the audience of this event, including Memphis kingpin Billy Gibson, Scott Dirks, Manu from the French blues band Malted Milk, R.J. Mischo, Dave Gonzalez (Chicago Blues Angels), and more. It was also great to see my dear friend Wesley Race at this event. Big Pete and I were given prime time as we ended The Mannish Boys' set, with two well-received numbers, complete with top-notch backing. Thanks to Randy, Frank, Josh, Kate, Nick, and everyone at Delta Groove and Blue Bella for their kindness and generosity in allowing us on this fantastic show. For a look at this event's show poster now up in the photo section of www.bobcorritore.com, click here. Photos from the showcase, as well as the Blues Music Awards, will be added to the website soon!

>>>>> Chief Schabuttie Gilliame Health Update: The Chief is still hospitalized, but is slowly recovering. He was transferred from Phoenix Baptist Hospital to the Arizona Heart Institute, where he is getting more specific help and will hopefully be released later this week. Chief Schabuttie Gilliame suffered a heart attack with complications from a respiratory infection a few weeks ago. A thank you goes out to the many musicians and fans, and to organizer Tommy Grills, who participated in a fundraiser for Chief last Sunday at the Rhythm Room.

>>>>> Press Recognition: Thanks to Blues Revue Magazine, whose latest issue (June/July) includes glowing reviews of Big Pete Pearson's I'm Here Baby on Blue Witch Records (by Eric Thom) and Chico Chism's West Side Chicago Blues Party (by Michael Cala), as well as remembering Paul deLay and Chico Chism in their obituary section (by Kenneth Bays). Thanks also to the always supportive Blueswax (a great on-line blues magazine) for numerous mentions. Thanks to Vicente "Harmonica" Zumel, who has been featuring Big Pete on his radio show. Look for a forthcoming interview with Big Pete Pearson in Living Blues Magazine.

>>>>> Lil' Ed Photo Page Added: Check out the new photo page featuring Bob's dear friend Lil' Ed, who is the nephew of the legendary J.B. Hutto. This page includes photos of Ed with Willie Dixon, Koko Taylor, H-Bomb Ferguson, Albert Collins, and more, as well as candid shots of Ed that highlight his fun-loving personality. Also included is photo of Ed embracing his lovely wife, Pam, on their wedding day. Special thanks to Kelly Littleton (Ed's great drummer) for sharing some of his great photos. To see this page, click here.

>>>>> John Németh and Junior Watson to appear Friday at the Rhythm Room: Check out our friends John Németh and Junior Watson this Friday, May 18, 2007 at the Rhythm Room. They will surely deliver a great set of top-notch traditional blues and R&B. John's new CD, Magic Touch on Blind Pig, has been getting glowing reviews. Doors open at 8pm, cover charge is $9. In compliance with A.R.S. § 36-601.01., in effect 1 May 2007, this will be a patio smoking only event; no indoor smoking will be permitted.

>>>>> Big Pete Pearson to open for Buddy Guy this Sunday at the Mesa Arts Center: Fans of Chicago Blues Legend Buddy Guy will be treated Phoenix Blues Legend Big Pete Pearson who will open the show in a duet setting with guitarist Mike Howard. The event is at the Mesa Arts Center on Sunday, May 20, 2007 at 7:30pm. Tickets may be purchased by clicking here.

>>>>> Big Pete Pearson CD now available from KJZZ: You can now pick up Big Pete Pearson's I'm Here Baby online from www.kjzz.org by clicking here. Sales support the station. Other Bob Corritore-produced CD available from KJZZ are the Blues On My Radio CD, and The Reed Family Album - Blood Harmony: A Cappella.

This Week on Bob's Blues Radio Show: Featured this week on Bob's radio show, Those Lowdown Blues on KJZZ-91.5FM, will be an extensive tribute to the legendary Chicago blues harmonica master Carey Bell. Note that last week's show was pre-recorded in advance to allow the trip to Memphis, so it did not reflect the recent passings. Carey Bell's music as a frontman and a sideman will be included throughout the show, with last hour being completely devoted to highlights of this stunning artist's huge body of recorded work. Also featured will be a tribute to the late Big Joe Duskin, some reflections on the Blues Music Awards, as well as the music of the late Chico Chism, who would have been 80 years old on May 23, 2007 (A musical birthday tribute to Chico happens May 23, 2007 at the Rhythm Room with many special guests).

>>>>> Bob Corritore