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New CD/DVD
Releases Here
Hillsdale, MI writer tells story of little-known guitar player
Danny Gatton Book
Sunday, November 05, 2006, By Gail Slaughter, gslaughter@citpat.com -
Why would a Hillsdale man write a book about a guitar player who is virtually unknown outside
of Washington, D.C. - even though he's arguably the best guitar player who ever lived?
Well, that's exactly the point. Ralph Heibutzki had already written a magazine article about
Danny Gatton, a guitar virtuoso who killed himself in 1994.
"The wider world didn't know of him. Why?" Heibutzki wondered. To answer that question,
he wrote the book, "Unfinished Business: The Life & Times of Danny Gatton."
Gatton put his amazing mark on many types of music - country, rockabilly, gospel,
old standards, even the "Linus and Lucy" theme song - plus his own style, "Redneck Jazz."
Gatton could not be pigeonholed, which meant he couldn't be easily marketed either. Nor
would he do much touring, which is another reason he wasn't well known.
Heibutzki made two trips from Hillsdale to D.C. to talk to Gatton's family and
fellow musicians, and conducted many phone interviews. The result is a comprehensive
and highly readable story of Gatton as guitarist, husband, father and car restorer,
though we may never know just why he killed himself.
The book's title, "Unfinished Business," is the name of Gatton's last album
as well as a reference to bringing him some overdue attention. His "time is
now," as Heibutzki put it.
Heibutzki grew up in St. Joseph, tried living in Chicago but "hated it,"
and "escaped" to Hillsdale in 1999 to work at the Daily News for five years.
As "Chairman Ralph," he performs "untamed folk-punk" music at local venues.
His wife, Lisa "Budgie," is an artist.
"Unfinished Business" was published by Backbeat Books. It can be ordered
from the Nomad Bookhouse in Jackson or through amazon.com.
"HEY EVERYONE. Just wanted to remind you that Christmas is coming up and what better a gift to
give than a one of a kind portrait drawn from your favorite photos. There is still time to
commission a portrait and have it ready by Christmas. You can view my gallery at
http://www.coreyfrizzell.com/gallery.html.
I have been real busy with a lot of cool things check out my news page and see what I have been up to at
http://www.coreyfrizzell.com/news.html
I am also launching a new line of portraits where I take photos of your children and add wings to make them look
like real angels, check it out here at
http://www.coreyfrizzell.com/Angel-Baby-page.html.
I look forward to hearing from you. You can contact me at corey@coreyfrizzell.com
or 615-289-7958." - Corey Frizzell: www.coreyfrizzell.com.
Dieselbilly King and Telecaster Titan
Bill Kirchen's CD:
"Hammer of the Honky Tonk Gods"
Nick Lowe, Geraint Watkins, Robert Trehern and Austin DeLone flesh out band on
Proper American Recordings label debut by the man who gave us "Hot Rod Lincoln".
From his twanging tribute to the Fender Telecaster guitar that he plays (and which he
notes "was born at the junction of form and function") to the soulful closing of Arthur
Alexander's "If It's Really Got To Be This Way," Bill Kirchen covers a wide swatch of
musical terrain on his forthcoming album, Hammer of the Honky-Tonk Gods, slated
for January 30, 2007 release in the U.S.
The album is his first for Proper American Recordings, which also gave the world recent
recordings by Dan Penn & Spooner Oldham, the Hacienda Brothers, Bobby Purify and Andy
Fairweather Low.
Best known for his trademark big-rig guitar on the Commander Cody & His Lost Planet Airmen
single "Hot Rod Lincoln," which went Top 10 in 1972, Kirchen has amassed a respectable
catalog of seven critically acclaimed albums that helped crystallize the format
now known as Americana (pioneered by acts like Commander Cody some 35 years ago).
On the new album, Kirchen reunites with friends who have accompanied him on recent
albums. Nick Lowe, who refers to Kirchen as "a devastating culmination of elegant and
funky," signs on as bassist and backing vocalist. Robert Trehern plays drums;
Geraint Watkins and Austin DeLone man the keyboards. Paul Riley and Kirchen
co-produced. For this album, Kirchen decided to put an accent on his songwriting,
a talent that is sometimes overshadowed by his dazzling instrumental virtuosity.
In addition to his paean to the Telecaster and the Arthur Alexander-penned
finale, Hammer of the Honky-Tonk Gods touches on such idioms as Kirchen's Michigan
Motown soul roots ("Soul Cruisin'" and a take of "Devil With the Blue Dress" with
glimmers of the Shorty Long original), barroom blues (Blackie Farrell's "Skid Row
In My Mind"), doo-wop ("Working Man") and Sun Records rockabilly meets Jerry Lee
Lewis boogie-woogie ("Heart of Gold), in addition to the honky-tonk,
Western swing and "dieselbilly," of which Kirchen is an acknowledged master.
Kirchen has appeared on record and stage with a who's who of talent that includes Lowe,
Doug Sahm, Ralph Stanley, Gene Vincent, Elvis Costello, Emmlyou Harris, Hoyt Axton,
Link Wray and Danny Gatton. (At the recent Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival
in San Francisco, Bill played guitar with Elvis Costello, who named his band
for the event The Hammer of the Honky-Tonk Gods after Bill's upcoming release,
and featured Bill singing the title song.) Kirchen was nominated for a 2001
Grammy Award for "Best Country Instrumental Performance" for his song "Poultry
in Motion," and in 2002 was inducted into the Washington Area Music Association Hall of
Fame alongside John Philip Sousa and Dave Grohl of Nirvana and the Foo Fighters.
He has lectured at the Smithsonian Institution and the 1998 Elvis Presley
Conference in Memphis. He is featured in the TNN special Yesterday & Today:
Honky Tonk & Western Swing.
Not bad for one who started his musical journey in Ann Arbor, where he attended high
school with Iggy Pop and Bob Seger. In the late '60s, after leading the hippie rock band
the Seventh Seal in Ann Arbor, Kirchen helped form Commander Cody and His Lost
Planet Airman and relocated them to the San Francisco Bay Area in 1969. The band
recorded seven albums before breaking up in 1975. Their album Live From Deep in the
Heart of Texas was named one of the 100 best albums of all time by Rolling Stone.
Over the course of two subsequent albums on Black Top Records and three on HighTone,
plus appearances on Nick Lowe's recent recordings, Kirchen solidified his reputation
as one of the most thrilling roots-music guitarists as well as a singer and songwriter
of keen wit and poignant insight.
All it takes is a spin of Hammer of the Honky-Tonk Gods or a night with Bill
Kirchen onstage as he tears the roof off anywhere he appears, to agree with what the
Austin American-Statesman says: "Bill Kirchen rules. It's just that simple."
For more information on Bill Kirchen and Proper American Recordings, please contact conqueroo:
Cary Baker (818) 501-2001 - cary@conqueroo.com
Michael Buffalo Smith is a along time supporter of the RHOF
Michael Buffalo Smith Releases
Outlaws, Rebels and Renegades
GREENVILLE, SC - OCTOBER 12, 2006 - Michael Buffalo Smith, Publisher and Founder of GRITZ (www.gritz.net the original
online magazine of Southern Music, is happy to announce the first in a series of books from GRITZ Publishing,
Outlaws, Rebels & Renegades. The book is available exclusively through Lulu (www.lulu.com)
Outlaws, Rebels & Renegades (available exclusively at Lulu.com)
contains over 500 pages filled with personal interviews with the biggest stars of Sout
hern Rock and Outlaw Country, including Gregg Allman, Dickey Betts, Charlie Daniels, David Allan Coe, Bonnie
Bramlett, Ed King, Artimus Pyle, Tom Dowd, Billy Bob Thornton and many others. There are hundreds of great
stories here, all told by the people who lived them. Offset by dozens of never before published photographs,
Outlaws is a true Southern music treasure and the perfect Holiday gift for any Southern Rocker.
Michael Buffalo Smith assembled Outlaws, Rebels & Renegades because of the ongoing requests from GRITZ
readers for a collection of these conversations in book form.
"Independent publishing and print-on-demand is the wave of the future, and the future is now," said Michael Buffalo
Smith. "Much like GRITZ Magazine going 100 percent digital, Lulu's publishing options cut out the middle man,
creating a real win-win situation for everyone."
Interviews included in this volume: Dickey Betts, Gregg Allman, Dangerous Dan Toler, Johnny Sandlin,
Bonnie Bramlett, Les Dudek Gov't Mule: Warren, Woody & Matt; Warren Haynes; Jimmy Hall;
Pete Carr; Red Dog Campbell; Chuck Leavell; Jimmy Nalls; Tom Dowd; Doug Gray; George McCorkle; Moon
Mullins; Chris Hicks; Charlie Daniels; Tommy Crain; Charlie Hayward; Taz DiGregorio;
Jakson Spires; Ricky Medlocke; Gary Rossington; Jo Jo Billingsley; Ed King; Artimus Pyle;
Edgar Winter; Jerry LaCroix; Johnny Winter; Bruce Brookshire; Van Zant; Don Barnes; Dennis Winters;
Papa Don Winters; Danny Joe Brown; Dave Hlubek; Jay Johnson; Dru Lombar; Larry Howard; Patterson Hood;
David Allan Coe; Billy Bob Thornton (Look for a second volume in 2007).
Link to Publication: http://www.lulu.com/gritzpublishing
ABOUT AUTHOR: Michael Buffalo Smith is the Publisher/Editor of the Digital magazine of Southern Music, GRITZ
(www.gritz.net/), and the author of Carolina Dreams: The Musical Legacy
of Upstate South Carolina (MTE, 1997). He is a freelance music journalist as well as performing singer/songwriter.
Michael Buffalo Smith, editor@gritz.net.
Bloodshot's 1st DVD + New Wayne Hancock CD
Bloodshot Records:
"Life in the Trenches"
Available October 10th in stores near you or
Get a full list of all the goodies contained on it, or order one at:
http://www.bloodshotrecords.com/album/bloodshotrecordscompilations/264.
Yes, our first DVD and it's quite the spectacle. 31 videos and live performances from
Waco Bros, Ryan Adams, Detroit Cobras, Wayne Hancock, Alejandro Escovedo, Scott H. Biram,
Graham Parker, Bobby Bare Jr, Old 97s, Deadstring Bros and so many more; 8 short films
with appearances by Meat Purveyors, Sundowners, Neko Case, Kelly Hogan, Split Lip
Rayfield and a documentary on the rough and tumble world of an independent label;
a poster gallery and a photo gallery.
You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll point excitedly at the screen and say "I was there" or "I've
seen them" or "I hate this." You might even find a new favorite band. We promise you probably
won't learn anything of value.
Over 3 and half hours of material or only $20!!\ Have we lost our minds?
This is an NTSC DVD and plays on in all formats in all regions and all countries
(well, maybe not North Korea) No worries, mate!
Get a sneak preview on
http://www.youtube.com/BSHQ
Also, there will soon be the "soundtrack" to the DVD. 18 live audio performances from
the DVD are available ONLY on iTunes and eMusic. Tracks from Bobby Bare Jr,
Graham Parker, Jon Langford, Kelly Hogan, Sally Timms, Wayne Hancock and more.
There are also four BONUS live tracks not available anywhere else from Trailer
Bride, Waco Brothers etc. Take a peek and have a listen:
http://www.bloodshotrecords.com/album/bloodshotrecordscompilations/281
ALSO AVAILABLE NOW:
WAYNE "The Train" HANCOCK - "Tulsa"
BS 134 / 2006 / $14.00. Pick it up at a store near you, or go to:
http://www.bloodshotrecords.com/album/waynehancock/252
and listen to samples, read more about it, or buy one.
The undisputed king of Juke Joint Swing--that alchemist's dream of honky-tonk, western swing,
blues, Texas rockabilly and big band--Wayne "The Train" Hancock has been, in his own words,
"the stab wound in the fabric of country music" since his debut. Always an anomaly among
his country music peers, Wayne's uncompromising interpretation of the music he loves is
in fact what defines him: steeped in traditional but never "retro;" bare bones but
bone shaking; hardcore but with a swing. Like the comfortable crackle of a Wurlitzer
45 jukebox, Wayne is the embodiment of genuine, house rocking, hillbilly boogie.
Wayne's latest effort, Tulsa - his third for Bloodshot Records and first studio record
since 2001 - is a testament to the version of America he loves; one decorated with
lonesome desert highways, cheap hotels, dancehalls, and lost loves along the way.
Wayne Hancock personifies the two great American inventions of jazz and country and
creates his own style of uncompromising western swing; as much Gershwin as Hank;
equal parts Art Blakley and Bob Wills.
Catch one of his gigs and understand why you come early, you stay late and you dance
and drink, and drink and dance some more.
Friday, October 13th in DENTON TX @ Dan's Silverleaf
Saturday, October 14th in AUSTIN @ Continental Club
Tuesday, October 17th in ATLANTA @ Smith's Olde Bar
Wednesday, October 18th in WINSTON-SALEM @ The Garage
Thursday, October 19th in CHARLOTTE @ Neighborhood Theatre
Saturday, October 21ST in RALEIGH @ Hideaway BBQ
Sunday, October 22nd in NORFOLK @ Taphouse Grill
Check details for rest of tour on the Website.
Wayne and the boys are ALWAYS on the road.
More Pop/Rock/Soul/Country in the 50's & 60's
On That Wisconsin Beat
The long awaited follow-up to Do You Hear That Beat is here! ON THAT WISCONSIN BEAT -
More Pop/Rock/Soul/Country in the 50's & 60's is 352 pages of biographical information,
quotes, record listings, musicians' names and more - a continuing encyclopedic compilation
of Wisconsin's contributions to the first 20 years of the rock 'n' roll era.
ON THAT WISCONSIN BEAT covers:
*Bands and artists we couldn't find the first time.
*An amazing number of additional artists and records that have since turned up.
*More famous and varied Wisconsin-related musical discoveries.
*Discography and personnel additions and corrections for Do You Hear That Beat.
*Photos, discographies and more.
Including:
*What Milwaukee r&b band had connections to a 50's star, a 60's star, and two 80's stars?
*Who had Chicago and Milwaukee-based releases under seven different names?
*Which Milwaukee band included a future member of a group with five top-40 hits?
*When did the writer of a 1981 Crystal Gayle hit have her only record release?
*How did an early rockabilly artist land in Wisconsin and later work for Bill Clinton?
*Where was the seemingly ubiquitous Sammy Marshall actually based?
Plus:
*Hundreds of bands and artists - from the Afro Jazz Ensemble to the Zoo.
*The Fendermen the REST of the story
*The strange saga of Rob Kirk
*More Cuca artists and their stories.
*Artist discographies.
*Label discographies.
*275 photos and label scans.
Makes a great gift for the record collector or music trivia buff,
as well as the fans and musicians who were there!
To order: On That Wisconsin Beat: $31.95 ea
California residents add 8.25% sales tax: $2.64 per book
Shipping/Handling. Priority: $5.75
or Media Mail: $2.25
Mail check or money order to:
MusicGem
PO Box 4777
Downey, CA 90241-1777
Or, for additional information:
MusicGem, PO Box 4777, Downey, CA 90241-1777, USA
562-927-8536 (24 hours a day)
gem777@earthlink.net
- http://home.earthlink.net/~gem777/
Robert Gordon, Chris Spedding:
New Album, New Tour
Robert Gordon's and Chris Spedding's trip on the comeback trail has been
quite successful so far, with wildly enthusiastic sell-out crowds in the
U.S., Canada, and all over Europe - from Sweden to Greece. The duo is about
to embark on their fourth trip, a 12-concert tour that will no doubt gain
them even more new fans. Gordon has promised to premier several songs from
hisforthcoming Elvis tribute album on the forthcoming tour, including his
personal favorites 'Don't Be Cruel' and 'A Mess O' Blues'. Robert says that
for him, doing the Elvis tribute album is almost like coming full circle,
because hearing 'Heartbreak Hotel' at the tender age of 9 was the first thing
that really moved him musically.
One of the highlights of the upcoming tour is an exclusive gig at the Lady
Luck (Solo) in London on November 6th, 2006. Both Gordon and Spedding are
very excited about performing in London again, as it is their first concert
in that city since October 1991. Here's a quick overview of the forthcoming
tour:
Oct 27 - Club Redline, Lulea (SE);
Oct 28 Medborgarhuset, Lycksele (SE);
Oct 30 - John Dee, Oslo (NO);
Oct 31 - Bruunske Pakhus, Fredericia (DK);
November 2 - The Rock, Copenhagen (DK);
Nov 3- Klubben / Fryshuset, Stockholm SE);
Nov 4 - Rock 'n' Roll West, Uddevalla (SE);
Nov 6 - Lady Luck, London (UK);
Nov 8 - Nightclub Doris, Sokos Hotel Lappee, Lappeenranta (FI);
Nov 9 - On the Rocks, Helsinki (FI);
Nov 10 - Rock House, Tampere (FI);
Nov 11 - House of Rock, Kouvolu (FI).
For more details, please go to the official website:
www.robertgordon.dk
Indiana Rockabilly Goes to France
By Camille Daddy, Brest R'n'R Appreciation Society. -
At the end of October, Art Adams will be in Concarneau (France) with Bobby Crown
for them annual international Rockabilly show. Last year it was Janis Martin who
brought "Drugstore R'n'R" here and next year will that will be Glen Glenn who
made "Everybody's Movin'". But let's get back in the late 70's when we just got
two tracks on two German LP's and bootlegs of Art's singles on "Cherry".
Rock'n'Roll buffs were then looking for him in Kentucky and can't find him. He
had made the move for Indiana since long and we had to wait some years more to
learn about that great rockin' cat. Today, with the wonder of internet, you will
know as much as me ... but your will not have to wait 25 years. So let's get back
to the start!
Arthur Adams was born in Kentucky on 12th February 1935 in a musical family. Few
years later his family moved way up North in Indiana, and after a short come back
in Kentucky, he settled in Indianapolis. He obtained a fake driving licence for $10 and
started to work for a factory. Here he would meet his wife to be and they were
wed in 1951. Next year he bought a D28 Martin guitar. The cost was a big
amount of money way back then and maybe it explains why he still own it. He
started to play bars with two friends until Uncle Sam called him for a 18 months
stay in Korea.
Back in USA in November 1954, the Kentucky Drifters were reunited and back in
clubs and bars. In 1956, the band took the name of "The Rhythm Knights" and were on a
radio show sponsored by a car dealer. Art soon find his way on a radio station
for a "demo" session. There he recorded two songs, "She's from Tennessee" and
"Down in Tennessee" and hit the road for Memphis. Art brought those two primitive
Hillbilly Bop songs to Jack Clement at Sun. Jack told him to find his own style
and to stop to sounding like Johnny Cash.
After seeing Little Jimmy Dickens on stage with two guitarists, Art made the
decision to play in a more Rockabilly style. He made some home recordings of
such songs as "Good Rockin' Tonight", "Matchbox", "Mystery Train" or "Woman
Love". He was deep into Elvis, Carl Perkins, Johnny Cash, Ernest Tubb or Gene
Vincent's music. Thanks to a friend he had a record contract
with the tiny "Cherry" recording company. Two recording sessions were in
Nashville and would give birth to two fabulous singles. Few titles will stay in
the can 'cause the deal was set for three singles. Among them an instrumental
titled "The Orange Blossom Special". Those two records failed and are now high
collectable items. Art and his band will made a TV appearences and worked on
a steady basis on clubs. They worked also as backing band for Jerry Lee Lewis,
Conway Twitty and Gen Simmons when they were in town.
In 1968, Art tired by that musician life with ups and downs, hung up his guitar
until fans came rattle his cage in the early 80's. So, in 2002, Art was back on
stage. In 2003, he played "Viva Las Vegas" festival and flew to England for the
highly popular Hemsby rockabilly festival. Then Collector Records from
Holland issued on CD all his 50's home recordings.
In 2005, he was back in England and Collector records issued his second CD, but
that time, with new recordings. Starting with The Burnette's classic "Tear It
Up", that record really cook. No Hillbilly there ... only straight rock'n'roll.
Even classics as "Walking the Dog" or "The Wreck of Old 97" recieved high
powered treatment and move fast. On that record, Art got the support of his old
pal Bill Stewart on guitar. They've played together since 1961 and they know how to
blow your socks off.
Bill Stewart also played on the last Art Adams CD issued few months ago in USA on
Flying Saucer Records CD titled "Dancing Doll". On that record, Art give a new
birth to Lattie Moore's' "Juke Joint Johnny", Jimmie Davis "Columbus Stockade
Blues" and Eddie Noack's classic "To Hot To Handle". Pure frantic rockin' sound
with the support of a first class combo. That record really rocks and will made
your old legs shaking.
Art plays Rock and Roll and that's ... all! So tell "Indian Joe" to grab his
"Dancing Doll" and to shout this "Rock Crazy Baby" until "She don't live here no
more".
Links : www.rockabillyhall.com - www.collectorrecords.nl
Released on the 35th Anniversary of his death
New Gene Vincent "Rarities" CD
Gene Vincent. The name conjures up one of the most definitive images from
the rock 'n' roll era: Gene looking upwards as if in a trance, his black
gloved hands wrapped firmly around the mike, one knee bent and the cripled
leg stretched. Dressed in black leathers, with a huge chain around his neck,
singing 'Be Bop-A-Lula' with an otherworldliness that was both intimidating
and enthralling at the same time.
To commemorate the 35th anniversary of his passing, Virginia Records is
celebrating his legacy with this new release, titled 'Gene Vincent: That
Be-Bop-A-Lula Cat!', which contains 78+ minutes of rare and unreleased
recordings from his final years. Near the end, Gene was fighting a losing
battle against his personal demons, and no doubt he realized that. One of
the few things that remained a constant in those last years was his
commitment to his music. In an interview recorded just weeks before his
death, he told journalist David Simmons: "Now politically, business-wise,
husband-wise, I might be a no-good son-of-a-gun, but there's one thing I can
do - I know my music. Can't mess me up on it, baby. Try it!".
Highlights on 'That Be-Bop-A-Lula Cat!' include an unreleased rehearsal and
concert in Lyon, France (09-28-67) as well as the never-before released
songs 'Sunday Morning Coming Down' and 'Corrine, Corrina' from a June 1971
gig in California. He instills both songs with all the Gene Vincent
characteristics, and 'Sunday Morning Coming Down' in particular is a moving
performance. Much the same can be said about Gene's version of the Jim
Reeves hit 'Distant Drums', an unrehearsed performance recorded less than a
forthnight before his death.
"I'm a rock 'n' roller and I'll die a rock 'n' roller", Gene told Ronnie
Weiser in '71, and perhaps that credo goes some way in explaining his
continuing popularity. Unlike Elvis, he never went Hollywood, and unlike
Jerry Lee, he never went country. He stuck to what he loved best - rock 'n'
roll. He was one of the prototypes of the rock 'n' roll lifestyle, and was
one of the first to pay the ultimate price, an early grave. Gene Vincent was
one of the main inspirations behind the punk revolution, with bands like The
Sex Pistols clearly being inspired by his fatalistic 'dying-for-the-art'
attitude and lifestyle.
All 29 tracks on 'That Be-Bop-A Lula Cat!' were digitally remastered using
the latest state-of-the-art technology, and even those tracks that have been
released before now sound significantly better. The 16-page booklet contains
a generous amount of unpublished photos and memorabilia, as well as
detailed liner notes. Only 500 copies will be pressed, so 'That Be-Bop-A
Lula Cat' is bound to become a true collectors item. Order your copy today
from: transalpinus1@yahoo.com
TRACK DETAILS:
She She Little Sheila
Susie Q
'Saturday Club' BBC Radio Show, Playhouse Theatre, London (U.K.), November
25th, 1963
Bird Doggin'
Say Mama (excerpt)
Long Tall Sally (excerpt)
I'm Going Home
Hi-Lily Hi-Lo
Rehearsal at Salle Rameau, Lyon (France), September 28th, 1967
Gene Vincent's message to his U.K. fans
Recorded during the September / October 1967 French tour
Say Mama
Long Tall Sally
I'm Going Home
Hi Lily Hi-Lo
Recorded live at Salle Rameau, Lyon (France), September 28th, 1967
Bi-lingual interview for Radio Suisse Romande, Geneva, Switzerland*
Recorded on October 6th, 1967
Rainyday Sunshine
(Looking For The) Green Grass
Mr. Love
Roll Over Beethoven
Demo Recordings, Salem, Oregon, May 14 & 15, 1969
Pistol Packin' Mama
Be Bop A-Lula
Say Mama
Rocky Road Blues
Dave Lee Travis BBC Radio Show, Maida Vale Studio 4, London (U.K.), November
16th, 1969
Sunshine
I Heard That Lonesome Whistle
Woman Love
San Francisco State College Folk Festival (U.S.A.), September 25th, 1970
The Day The World Turned Blue
'Top Gear' BBC Radio Show, Playhouse Theatre, London (U.K.), January 25th, 1971
Baby Blue
'All Our Yesterplays' BBC Radio Show, Aeolian Hall 1 - Studio 2, London
(U.K.), February 3rd, 1971
Sunday Morning Coming Down
Corrine, Corrina
Recorded live at the Corral Club, Topanga Canyon, Ca. (U.S.A), June 6th, 1971
Distant Drums
Johnny Walker BBC Radio Show, Maida Vale Studio 4, London (U.K.), October
1st, 1971
*The complete interview, including 'Hi-Lily Hi-Lo' from the October 6th,
1967 concert at the Salle de la Réformation in Geneva, Switzerland.
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum Announces
Eleventh Annual American Music Masters Series
"Only the Lonely:
The Life and Music of Roy Orbison"
The weeklong tribute coincides with Sony/Legacy re-release of Orbison's music, the performer's 70th
birthday and the Museum's "Haunting and Yearning" Exhibit.
CLEVELAND (September 25, 2006) - The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum and Case Western Reserve
University will celebrate the legacy of Roy Orbison during the Eleventh Annual American Music
Masters Series this October 30th through November 4th. This 2006 American Music Masters series,
"Only the Lonely: The Life and Music of Roy Orbison," will pay tribute to a performer who has been
described as "rock and roll's Caruso."
Orbison was a pioneer of the dark, sophisticated and solitary side of rock and roll. He possessed a
three-octave range and sang in a soaring, operatic tenor. A balladeer with a timeless quality to his
music, Orbison specialized in heartbreaking musical meditations on the subject of love. He was
inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987 and would have been 70 on April 23, 2006.
Though the Texas-born singer/guitarist briefly recorded for Sun Records where he had one modest hit,
"Ooby Dooby," Orbison never really fit in with the rowdy rockabilly crowd. Early on, he enjoyed
success as a songwriter, placing songs with Jerry Lee Lewis, the Everly Brothers and Buddy Holly.
After signing with Nashville-based Monument Records in 1960, his own career took off. Orbison's
sumptuous, sophisticated pop hits include "Only the Lonely," "Blue Bayou" and "It's Over." On the
rock and roll side, he cut his biggest hit, "Oh, Pretty Woman," in 1964.
The 11th Annual American Music Masters week begins on October 30th and extends through November 4th.
The schedule of events includes:
Monday October 30: Roy Orbison on Film! A special screening of Black and White Night, preceded by a
showing of rare television clips of Orbison performances. This event will take place at 7:00 p.m.
in the Museum's 4th Floor Theater and will be open to the public. The evening will be introduced by
the Rock Hall's Warren Zanes, vice president of education and public programs. This event is free
with a reservation. Email education@rockhall.org or call 216.515.8426 to RSVP.
Tuesday, October 31: An Evening with Bill Dees. With Roy Orbison, Bill Dees co-wrote "It's Over,"
"Oh, Pretty Woman," "Ride Away" and more. Dees will be the subject of an in-depth interview in the
Museum's 4th Floor Theater at 7pm. This event is free with a reservation. Email
education@rockhall.org or call 216.515.8426 to RSVP.
Wednesday, November 1: Orbison from Every Angle: Panel Discussion with special guests in the
Museum's 4th Floor Theater at 7:00 p.m. This event is free with a reservation. Email
education@rockhall.org or call 216.515.8426 to RSVP.
Thursday, November 2: An Evening with Joe Melson With Roy Orbison, Joe Melson wrote such Orbison
classics as "Uptown," "Only the Lonely," "Blue Angel," "Crying," "Blue Bayou" and many more. He
will be will be the subject of an in-depth interview in the Museum's 4th Floor Theater at 7:00 p.m.
This event is free with a reservation. Email education@rockhall.org or call 216.515.8426 to RSVP.
Friday, November 3: At Wilbert's in Cleveland! Live Interview at 8:00 p.m. with Fred Foster,
producer of Roy Orbison's Monument-era hits, followed by live music in honor of Roy Orbison. Music
will be provided by the Ryan Humbert Band and the Truly Lover Trio. Tickets are $5 and will be
available at the door or in advance at Wilbert's.
Saturday, November 4: Daylong Conference at Case Western Reserve University's Ford Auditorium, 9:00
a.m. 5:00 p.m. Participants will include Billy Pat Ellis of the Teen Kings (one of Roy's first
groups), Virgil Johnson of the Velvets, a vocal group discovered by Orbison, Grammy-winning author
Colin Escott, former Sun Records engineer Cowboy Jack Clement, Sun Records guitar slinger Roland
Janes, Fred Foster, former members of Orbison's road bands, including Buddy Buie, Rodney Justo,
Terry Widlake, and Bucky Barrett, author Chet Flippo, and author Peter Lehman. Tickets are $30 will
be available to Museum members starting Friday, September 21 through Ticketmaster and the Museum box
office. Tickets for the general public will go on sale Wednesday, September 27 also through
Ticketmaster and the Museum box office.
Saturday, November 4, 8:00 p.m. at Playhouse Square's State Theater: A tribute concert, in honor of
the great Roy Orbison. The concert will feature Raul Malo (formerly of the Mavericks), Ricky Skaggs,
the Velvets, Patty Griffin, the Crickets (with Sonny Curtis), Mandy Barnett, Cowboy Jack Clement and
Billy Burnette, who will serve as the bandleader for the night. More surprise artists will be
announced over the coming weeks. Tickets are $30, $40 and $50. Museum members can purchase tickets
for the tribute concert at 216.515.8427 starting Thursday, September 21. Tickets go on sale to the
general public on Wednesday, September 27 through tickets.com and at Playhouse Square.
Exhibit Open at Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum:
An exhibit, entitled "Haunting & Yearning: the Life and Music of Roy Orbison," opened to the public
on April 19, 2006 in the Museum's Circular Gallery. The exhibit includes handwritten lyrics and set
lists, production notes, handbills, clothing, rare records, instruments, pieces from Orbison's model
plane collection and other personal artifacts. It will remain open through December 31, 2006.
The exhibit coincides with the release of Legacy Records Roy Orbison Reissue Project. The first
Legacy releases are Black & White Night, the 1987 star-studded concert originally aired as an
HBO-Cinemax special, and the long-awaited The Essential Roy Orbison, the first-ever "best of"
collection spanning Orbison's entire career. Black & White Night and The Essential Roy Orbison are
currently in stores.
During his remarkable career, Roy Orbison received multiple Grammy awards including the prestigious
Lifetime Achievement award and is also a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the
Songwriters Hall of Fame. In 1990, two years after his death, Roy received a Grammy for best male
vocalist for his performance of "Oh! Pretty Woman" from Black & White Night. The love and respect
for the writer and singer, Roy Orbison, didn't end the day he died in December of 1988, and it is
still ongoing.
The singer was enjoying a successful comeback, on his own and with the Traveling Wilburys, when he
died of a heart attack on December 6, 1988.
About the American Music Masters Series:
The American Music Masters series, a co-production of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum and
the College of Arts and Sciences at Case Western Reserve University, celebrates the lives and
careers of artists who changed the shape and sound of American culture. Each year, the series
explores the legacy of one of those pioneering figures in a range of events that includes Museum
exhibits, lectures, films, a major conference and a tribute concert benefiting the Rock Hall's
Education Department. Drawing together experts, artists, fans and friends, these events aim to
provide new perspectives on some of the most beloved and influential musicians of the past century.
The American Music Masters® series began in 1996 when the museum paid tribute to Woody Guthrie with
a 10-day celebration of his life and legacy. Other American Music Masters® series honorees have
included: the father of country music, Jimmie Rodgers in 1997; blues legend, Robert Johnson in 1998;
rhythm and blues pioneer, Louis Jordan in 1999; the legendary Muddy Waters in 2000; the "Empress"
Bessie Smith in 2001; Hank Williams, the first country western superstar in 2002; Buddy Holly in
2003; folk-blues artist Lead Belly in 2004; and Sam Cooke in 2005.
About the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum:
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum is the nonprofit organization that exists to educate
visitors, fans and scholars from around the world about the history and continuing significance of
rock and roll music. It carries out this mission both through its operation of a world-class museum
that collects, preserves, exhibits and interprets this art form and through its library and archives
as well as its educational programs.
The Museum is open seven days a week from 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. On Wednesdays the Museum is open
until 9:00 p.m. Museum admission is $20.00 for adults, $14.00 for seniors (60+), $11 for children
(9-12) and children under 8 and Museum members are free.
New memoir shows the human side of
"A Guy Named Elvis"
August, 22, 2007 - When he was 12, Jerry Schilling couldn't believe the voice he heard on the radio
singing "That's All Right" belonged to a teenager from his own north Memphis neighborhood.
A few days after hearing the song, he was playing a pickup football game, and the quarterback on his
team was the same kid from the neighborhood, 19-year-old Elvis Presley.
"We went into a huddle, and I said, 'Wow, that's the guy with a song on the radio!'" Schilling said.
Schilling has written a new memoir about his 23-year friendship with Presley, but he didn't use the
book to convince anyone that his childhood friend was a great performer or a rock 'n' roll legend.
Instead, "Me and a Guy Named Elvis," written with Chuck Crisafulli, shows Presley's more human side,
the intelligent and passionate man who struggled with drug abuse and was frustrated with his
mediocre Hollywood movies.
After Presley's death in 1977, Schilling, who still lives in the Hollywood Hills, Calif., home that
Elvis bought for him, worked for Elvis Presley Enterprises and produced documentaries and TV
specials about the performer.
But Schilling had always said he wasn't interested in writing an Elvis book, as other members of the
inner circle had done. He changed his mind only when Schilling's wife, Cindy, urged him to tell the
story.
Schilling worked with Crisafulli, an entertainment journalist who has written several books.
Publisher Gotham, an imprint of the Penguin Group, said that the pair wrote the book side by side
over the course of three years, and it was a very successful collaboration. There are about 30,000
copies in print of the book, which already has been sent back for a second printing since its Aug.
17 release.
"It's a fun, complicated book about a simple friendship in a complicated world," Schilling said in a
recent interview while in town to promote his new book. "(His death) was the biggest loss of my
life, ever. I still miss him."
Peter Guralnick, author of the two-volume biography of Presley, "Last Train to Memphis" and
"Careless Love," said Schilling's memoir is a balanced treatment of Presley and offers insights into
the characters that surrounded the musician.
The book is "a personal memoir that, while it places its narrator squarely in the midst of historic
events, never claims credit for those events in the way that so many self-serving memoirs are
inclined to do," Guralnick wrote in the book's foreword.
The memoir also received the blessing of Presley's wife Priscilla and his daughter Lisa Marie.
Davis-Kidd Bookseller in Memphis sold more than 80 copies of the book during a preview weekend - a
good showing for a topic that has tired most folks in Memphis, said Katherine Whitfield, marketing
manager for the store.
"Me and a Guy Named Elvis" stands out from other Presley-themed books because it's clear he's not
just trying to make a buck off his famous friend, Whitfield said.
"I think a lot of care was put into it," she said. "He talks about Elvis sort of like an older
brother. I've seen a lot of people tell a lot of stories; it's hard to fake that sincerity."
Publisher's Weekly agreed, saying the memoir's "heartfelt narrative makes this more than just
another piece of Elvis product."
Schilling started working for Presley in 1964, doing whatever was needed as Elvis moved from
concerts to movie sets to the studio.
Those who worked for Presley - the so-called Memphis Mafia - became his friends and confidants.
Presley even allowed Schilling and the others to live in his Memphis home at Graceland.
Schilling recalled a time while he lived at Graceland when Presley asked him to go for a drive with
him. After a quiet ride, they pulled into the cemetery where the entertainer's mother, Gladys, was
buried.
"Seeing him before that monument, it came to me that, perhaps for the very first time, I could see
my friend as a small, fragile human - just like any other," he writes.
Even when Presley started seeing Priscilla, the Memphis Mafia was always around. Presley's manager,
"Colonel" Tom Parker, shut his buddies out of their 1967 wedding in Las Vegas, but Presley managed
to invite them along on the honeymoon.
"When he carried Priscilla across the threshold of their new Palm Springs home - the so-called
Honeymoon House - the first thing Priscilla saw on the other side was us," Schilling writes.
Presley wanted his buddies around, but he wanted them to keep their distance from Priscilla,
Schilling said, even though they were all living under the same roof.
Schilling once saw Priscilla in the kitchen of Graceland looking flushed and asked her if she was
feeling OK - not realizing she and Elvis had been arguing. Priscilla later told Elvis that Schilling
cared about her feelings, and it drove Elvis crazy. Schilling said Presley stormed into a room where
his friends were watching TV and announced, "I don't need anybody else taking care of Priscilla and
checking how she is." Schilling said he didn't talk to Priscilla again for almost a full year.
Even though the couple argued and eventually divorced, they remained close through the rest of the
singer's life. But the person who made him the happiest was his daughter, Lisa Marie.
"Elvis and Lisa were just magic together," Schilling said, adding that Presley wanted more time with
his family just before his death.
Drugs have long been the suspected cause of Presley's death, and Schilling said he took pills to
escape the disappointment he felt about the direction of his career. Elvis wanted to produce his own
film about karate, but Parker refused to allow it. Elvis tried to make the movie himself with
Schilling's help, but it was shelved as Elvis spent more time in the hospital to combat fatigue and
drug usage.
He was also excited about the chance to appear alongside Barbra Streisand in the movie, "A Star Is
Born." He thought the role - which eventually went to Kris Kristofferson - would prove he could do
more than be the good-looking nice guy he played in most of his movies.
Parker ended Presley's participation in "A Star Is Born" with demands of twice the salary that Elvis
was being offered and that he be billed before Streisand, who not only starred in the film, but also
co-produced it.
"It was the creative disappointment that killed Elvis," Schilling said. "The drugs were just a
Band-Aid." - Beth Rucker (AP)
Special Edition, Bonus Content, Remastered Audio, Additional Footage
Elvis DVDs:
'68 Comeback Special Edition,
Aloha From Hawaii
Aug. 2 - In stores NOW! The SONY BMG Strategic Marketing Group and Elvis Presley Enterprises
released two new single-disc versions of Elvis: '68
Comeback - Special Edition DVD and Elvis, Aloha from Hawaii - Special Edition DVD on August 1 as
follow-ups to
the smash hit, deluxe edition box sets,
which were released 2004.
Elvis: '68 Comeback - Special Edition features a new expanded version of the historic TV broadcast
including additional footage of Elvis clad in his iconic
black leather suit. Elvis, Aloha from Hawaii - Special Edition includes the original January 14,
1973 concert from Honolulu, Hawaii. Both discs boast bonus
content including a photo gallery and hidden content as well as audio that has been remastered for
optimum sound quality and rechanneled and remixed for
5.1 surround. The discs will be priced at $19.98 and have a total running time of 94 ('68 Comeback)
and 87
minutes (Aloha from Hawaii)
ELVIS: '68 COMEBACK - Special Edition DVD
In the 1950's, singer Elvis Presley led the rock 'n' roll revolution in music and pop culture. In
the 1960's he concentrated mainly on his successful movie
career. By 1968, it had been more than seven years since he had appeared on stage in front of a live
audience. In his first television special, clad in
his now-iconic black leather suit, Elvis performed classic hits both on stage alone and, in
sequences generally regarded as the forerunner of today's popular
"unplugged" jam sessions, with friends and original bandmates. The program also included splashy
production numbers. Usually referred to as the '68 Comeback
Special, the actual name of the program was Elvis. Taped in June 1968 in Burbank, it first aired
that December 3rd on NBC -- the network's biggest ratings
victory that year and the season's top-rated show. It stands today as one of the great moments in
rock music history and as a stunningly brilliant milestone
in Elvis Presley's career. After this triumph, Elvis poured renewed creative vigor into his
recording work, wrapped up his movie contract obligations and
returned full-time to the concert stage, beginning a new and exciting era of the Elvis
phenomenon.
ELVIS: ALOHA FROM HAWAII - Special Edition DVD
Elvis Presley made television and entertainment history with his Elvis, Aloha from Hawaii concert,
performed at the Honolulu International Center Arena
on January 14, 1973. It was beamed live via to various countries and it first aired in America on
April 4th on NBC in edited form, including four "insert"
songs shot just after concert. In all, the concert was seen in about forty countries by close to 1.5
billion people that year which was a global ratings
smash. Never before had one performer held the world's attention in such a way. Aloha from Hawaii
presents Elvis Presley at the pinnacle of his superstardom,
giving one of the most outstanding concert performances of his career.
Your Songs on Memphis Radio
The Rock House Show
Memphis DJ "Lonnie" hosts a great on-line show every Friday 7-9 pm on WEVL.
He is looking for material from rockabilly artists. So if you'd like to have
you music played in Memphis - wehere it all started - please contact
Lonnie. His MySpace site is
www.myspace.com/rockhouseshow.
AMY BETH PARRAVANO lives in New England, but she's an honorary
Kentucky Colonel - the only female colonel in her state. She's also known as
celebrity artist - "Elvis' Lil Sister" - and has performed her Elvis
imitation for several events including in Las Vegas at the "Peabody
30th Anniversary of Rock & Roll" and in Memphis at ETA Week.
Accomplishments include listings in "Who's Who of Women" in both
the USA and London, awards for songwriting and "Songwriter and
New Artist of the Year" and the "Best in Texas" Award for her ETA tribute.
Recently, Amy Beth hosted and
produced a public access TV show on
COX cable: "Amy Beth Presents," a musical magazine program. One show
was filmed in Cannes, France where she interviewed the mayor of that city.
She appeared as an extra in the movie "The Last Shot," filmed in
Providence. RI, starring Mathew Broderick, Calista Flockhart and Alex Baldwin.
Contact information: amybeth_e@yahoo.com and
www.peridotrecords.com
AN OPEN "THANK YOU" / "REVIEW" LETTER:
Eddie Cochran Tribute in Sept.,
Bristol to Ace Cafe in London
HI LINDA + MARK + YOUR TEAM
ON BEHALF OF US ALL, I WOULD LIKE TO SAY A VERY BIG WORD OF THANKS FROM EVERYONE AT BRISTOL
FOR MAKING US SO WELCOME. FOR EVERYTHING YOU DID TO HELP US IN RAISING FUNDS FOR THE
MEMORIAL OF OUR IDOL EDDIE COCHRAN.
WE ARRIVED AT THE ACE CAFE AROUND 5.30PM, WE WERE WELCOMED BY SANDY FORD, FROM FLYING
SAUCERS WHO WAS FILMING THE CRUISE COMING IN. OUR JOURNEY HAD STARTED MUCH EARLIER THAT
DAY FROM BRISTOL. WHERE MARK HONEYCHURCH FROM THE RED HOT BAND + ROCKIN' GERRY DID THEIR
RENDITION OF THE COCHRAN BROTHERS. THEY WERE REALLY EXCELLENT. THE CARS + BIKES WERE
PARKED ALL AROUND THE CITY CENTRE.
OUR CRUISE SET OFF AT AROUND 11AM WE MADE OUR WAY TO CHIPPENHAM ON THE A4 THE SAME ROUTE
THAT EDDIE + GENE HAD TAKEN 46 YEARS BEFORE. WE WERE WELCOMED HERE BY A VERY LARGE CROWD
OF DEDICATED FANS THAT HAD TRAVELLED IN FROM SURROUNDING AREAS. HOWEVER THERE WAS
A MAN AND HIS FAMILY WHO HAD TRAVELLED ALL THE WAY FROM IRELAND TO BE WITH US ON
THIS VERY SPECIAL OCCASION. THAT IS DEDICATION!!
AT THIS POINT THE CROWD GATHERED AROUND THE ROADSIDE PLAQUE AND WE ALL PAID TRIBUTE TO OUR
IDOL EDDIE COCHRAN, I PLACED SOME FLOWERS HERE ON BEHALF OF ALL THE FANS FROM EVERYWHERE ALL
OVER THE WORLD. THERE WERE SOME PERSONAL FLORAL TRIBUTES AS WELL. WE ALL HAD THAT SPECIAL
MOMENT TO REFLECT OUR MEMORIES.
OUR LADY OF CHIPPENHAM ANGELA POWELL WAS PRESENT HERE, AND IT IS WITH THANKS TO HER
THAT THIS ROADSIDE PLAQUE WAS PUT HERE BY HER SEVERAL YEARS AGO.
WE LEFT CHIPPENHAM AT 1PM AND TRAVELLED ON TO MARLBOROUGH WE HAD A SHORT STOP HERE GATHERED
A FEW MORE FANS AND THEN MADE OUR WAY TO READING SERVICES ON THE M4. MAKING SURE ALL WERE
PRESENT ETC WE MADE OUR FINAL LEG OF THE JOURNEY TO THE ACE CAFE, WE WERE WELCOMED HERE BY
SANDY FORD WHO FILMED THE CRUISE COMING IN. AFTER SOME REFRESHMENT WE HAD A FANTASTIC EVENING
BEING ENTERTAINED BY OUR DJs THE FLAT TOP BROTHERS (BOOKED FOR SEPT 2007 CHIPPENHAM).
WE HAD A GOOD ATTENDANCE FOR THE EVENINGS ENTERTAINMENT AROUND 350 TO 400 FANS
FIRST BAND OF THE EVENING WAS RED HOT FROM BRISTOL + A LITTLE HELP HERE FROM THE MUSKRATS
DRUMMER + BASE PLAYER IT WAS A TREMENDOUS SET WELL DONE LADS.
OUR NEXT BAND CHRIS BLACK WITH BLACKCAT I HAVE KNOWN CHRIS FOR CLOSE TO 30 YEARS HE AND
HIS BAND DID A FABULOUS SET THE CROWD DIDNT WANT HIM TO STOP. AT THIS POINT THERE WAS
A GUEST APPEARANCE OF ONE OF BRISTOL'S TED'S GERRY SHORE HE SANG "THREE STEPS TO HEAVEN"
"CUT ALONG SHORTIE" AND A COUPLE MORE,GERRY WAS BACKED BY BLACKCAT.
THEN CAME THE PRESENTATION OF A SPECIAL PLAQUE THAT I PRESENTED TO MARK WILLSMORE
{OWNER OF THE ACE CAFE}
WE CONTINUED WITH " THE MUSKRATS" WHO DID A ROCKABILLY SET. THESE GUYS ARE VERY DEDICATED
TO THE CAUSE.
TO FINISH THE EVENING OFF WAS THE GUY WE ALL LOVE AND APPRECIATE SO MUCH SANDY FORD
WITH HIS BAND "FLYING SAUCERS" SANDY WENT DOWN A STORM AS USUAL. THE EVENING WAS
FINISHED OFF BY THE GREAT FLAT TOP BROTHERS OUR DJs WHO SIMPLY LOVE EDDIE COCHRAN MUSIC.
I WOULD LIKE ALSO TO SAY A BIG THANK YOU TO TINA + SONYA FROM BRISTOL WHO COLLECTED £240.00
ON OUR RAFFLE PROCEEDS WILL GO TO OUR FUND-RAISING FOR THE MEMORIAL OF EDDIE COCHRAN.
SO REGARDS TO FURTHER FUND RAISING WE HAVE WRITTEN TO THE NATIONAL LOTTERY TO SEE WHAT
THEY MIGHT DO TO HELP US. WE ARE ALSO LOOKING FOR DONATIONS AS WELL, FROM ANY ONE WHO
FEELS THAT THEY WOULD LIKE TO HELP US IN THE GOOD CAUSE. MAYBE THERE ARE CLUBS OUT
THERE THAT WOULD LIKE TO PUT ON A GIG OR HAVE A RAFFLE AND GIVE THE PROCEEDS TO
THE FUND-RAISING. PERHAPS ANYONE THAT READS THIS MAY HAVE AN IDEA THAT THEY
WOULD LIKE TO LET US KNOW. WE ARE OPEN FOR SUGGESTIONS.
LINDA I HAVE ATTACHED A FILE WHICH GIVES ALL DETAILS OF OUR EDDIE COCHRAN SEPTEMBER 2006 EVENT.
AGAIN WE DO THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR EVERYTHING.
KIND REGARDS
GWEN HALE
SHOWTIME ENTERPRISES
www.rocknrollhq.com
TEL: 0117 904 26 58
3 Years on the Pop Charts ... 50 Years Underground.
An exclusive musical tour of the history of LA rockabilly,
featuring interviews and music by Glen Glenn, Ray Campi,
Rockin' Ronny Weiser, Big Sandy, Dave Gonzales (Padalins),
Omar Romero, Little Luis, Moonlight Crusiers and more!
A great musical tour of the La cars. DVD Running time: 106 minutes. For information,
please e-mail
Rebel Beat.
Gone Farther Down The Road
This book is now on sale at the Country Music Hall Of Fame and Ernest
Record Shops. Author: Jimmy Adams - JimmyLAdams@aol.com
"FARTHER DOWN THE ROAD" Book web site
Nashville Palace Re-Opens
The Nashville Palace has re-opened with a modern, state of the art venue and a renewed commitment
to providing the very best in Live Country Music.
The Nashville Palace is located near the corner of McGavock and Briley Parkway, Nashville, TN,
just blocks from the Grand Ole Opry and Opry Mills.
For ticket and hotel package information call (615) 884-3004.
Latest from Charlie Gracie
CHARLIE is back to his roots again - rockabilly/early RnR/Rhythm and Blues recorded
in the fabulous Lightning Recording Studios in Berlin, Germany!
CHARLIE GRACIE is one of a diminishing number of rock-n-roll innovators, who continues
to actively perform. A native of South Philadelphia, he became the FIRST successful
recording star of the "Rock Era" to emerge from that neighborhood. In 1957, Charlie's
'Butterfly' topped the American and British music charts, selling over 3 million copies.
His other late fifties big sellers include: 'Fabulous', 'Ninety-Nine Ways', 'Wanderin
Eyes' and 'I Love You So Much It Hurts'. These hits bankrolled Philly's famous
Cameo-Parkway record label, making it a dominant force in the music industry for
nearly a decade! At the height of his fame, Charlie frequently appeared on 'Dick
Clark's American Bandstand', 'The Ed Sullivan Show', and 'Alan Freed's TV Specials'.
Charlie's star burned even brighter in Great Britain where he became the second
American artist to bring rock-n-roll to the English concert stage. Preceded only by
Bill Haley, Charlie headlined the London Palladium and Hippodrome receiving outstanding
receptions from the press and public. To this day, Charlie Gracie, is a much loved and
respected performer the length and breadth of the United Kingdom.
Hope you dig this new release. Look for it at tower.com or 1-800-ASK-TOWER
CHARLIE GRACIE ... Original CRICKETS
Albert Lee, Narvel Felts and The NELSONS (yes, Ricky's sons) are set for the Big
BUDDY HOLLY
TRIBUTE WEEKEND at the SURF BALLROOM in CLEAR LAKE, LOWA: Feb. 2 - Feb. 5, 2006!
FOR INFO GO TO www.surfballroom.com.
The last venue played by Buddy, Ritchie Valens and the Big Bopper before that infamous
plane crash that took their lives!
Attention: Movie Producers, Investors and Concerned Fans
Rhythm and Blues is Back!
Before there was Drugs, Sex, and Rock-N-Roll there were John R., Hoss Allen, Gene Nobles, and
Herman Grizzard spinning those platters of things that matter. Yeah baby Rhythm and Blues,
Cornfield Blues they played it all. Now listen up, cause you know back then the only place to
catch the beat and chatter was down at 1510 on your dial. You know, WLAC Nashville.
"WLAC Nashville" is a story that must be told.
Are you ready for this, are you ready to tell it? Come on, I know you got yourself some soul
or you wouldn't be reading this and now you can tell the world you got soul. It doesn't matter
if you are Soul Brother or Soul Sister, we got you covered.
Learn more: www.wlac-nashville.com
A new screenplay. Contact our WGA signatory agent, Patricia Miller/White Orchid Literary and
Talent Agency at
pmiller@white-orchid-agency.com or by phone at (248) 939-1408 or Email
don@thn2.com or phone Don at 317-445-5287
Mayf Nutter Inducted
STARDUST RECORDS Artist, Mayf Nutter has received much acclaim
the past few years thanks to Buster Doss who has exposed Mayf's
recordings to a World-Wide audience of Deejays and fans who
never heard his music before.
Rockabilly Hall of fame founder, Bob Timmers, attended
JAMBOREE ON THE MOUNTAIN, an event produced by Col. Doss
and was inspired to look into the past achievement of Mayf Nutter.
Then it was apparent to him and others associated with
the RHOF that Mayf belonged among their esteemed members.
Mayf Nutter, star of television, films and the stage
was inducted into the
Rock A Billy Hall of Fame on Saturday, 5 November
2005. The induction took place at Buck Owens' Crystal
Palace Saloon on Buck Owens Blvd. In Bakersfield, CA.
The Sold Out crowd went wild as Bob Timmers of the
Rock A Billy Hall of Fame inducted Mayf for his
contribution to rockabilly music. A long line of fans extending
into the parking lot were turned away from the Standing Room
Only event, but many waited hoping for others
to leave early after the ceremony or for a chance to meet Mayf
as he left the building.
Mayf's rockabilly versions of: "Everybody's Talkin.", "Green Door",
"Chattanooga Shoe Shine Boy", "Never Ending Song Of
Love" and everyone's favorite "Goin' Skinny Dippin'"
have become classics and are currently being played on
radio stations around the world. As a matter of fact,
Mayf Nutter records are constantly in the Top 100 of
the International Charts and have been for the past
thirty years!
It was only fitting that Mayf's induction took place
at Buck Owens' Crystal Palace Saloon with the live
radio broadcast on KUZZ radio. Among the first radio stations to
play Mayf's records was KUZZ AM-FM in Bakersfield. As a
result of hearing Mayf's music on the station, Buck
called Mayf and brought him to Bakersfield to record
with Buck and his Buckaroos. That was thirty six
years ago!
Since that time Mayf has been either a recurring
character, or star, of five prime time award winning TV
series: "Gunsmoke", "The Waltons", "Falcon Crest",
"Knot's Landing" and "Hawkins" in which he starred
with Jimmy Stewart.
Mayf received Best Actor recognition for his role in
the Showtime nine hour mini-series "The Lone Star Bar
& Grill". Mayf has done over 100 guest star roles is
such TV hits as "Murder She Wrote", "The Dukes of
Hazzard", "Houston Knights", "Charlie's Angels" and
many, many more.
"Mayf Nutter's Worldwide Radio Hits, Vol 1" is his
current CD release and is being played on radio
station worldwide.
Mayf adds this Rockabilly Hall of Fame honor to his many awards including
being enshrined in the Country Music Hall of Fame
Walkway of Stars in Nashville, TN. and being included
in the Bakersfield Country Music Museum.
Upcoming, Mayf Nutter fans will be able to see Mayf in two
feature films "The Painted Forest", produced by Michael
Stanton, and "Big Chuck Little Chuck", produced by
Byron Quisenberry, in 2006.
 
Pete Worden & the Hardtimers
Pete Worden and the Hardtimers play "real deal rockabilly music." Worden describes his brand of
music
as bop. "We're no oldies band" says Pete, "I'm writing new bop carrying on the music that the cats
started in the 50's."
A brilliant guitar slinger and vocalist, Worden delivers an exciting live show, the likes of which
will have you asking yourself, 'how does he do that?' As you stand outside a club where Worden is
working out hard inside, you will swear you're standing on Beale Street in Memphis. An older fan
with a DA and pack of smokes rolled in his sleeve says, "I was there in the 50's and those guys do
it
right, like some kind of time machine." Younger fans see his show and think, 'so this is what it
was
like.'
Pete Worden remembers the first 45 record his parents gave him as an eight-year-old. He says it was
an RCA record, Elvis' cover of "Hound Dog", flip side "Don't Be Cruel." When he heard those sides,
his fate was sealed. "It really kicked my ass" says Pete, "that killer guitar, and beat, oh man."
However Worden's early music career, the Elvis 45 notwithstanding, wouldn't necessarily indicate his
current path. He has always had a diverse taste in music, and his personal collection, ranging from
jazz and classical to roots music and heavy metal, reveals not only his taste in music but also his
maturation as a musician. After playing cello and clarinet in grade school, he settled on electric
bass for a large part of his early professional career. He toured nationally in the '80s, playing
bass with hard rockers Ice Water Mansion.
When that band broke up, Worden began pursuing his love of jazz and his interest in moving from bass
to guitar. He studied jazz guitar with Frank Gerard. "But to play jazz," he says, "you really have
to know blues." So after studying the music and playing with other bands like Shakin' Smith, he
formed a blues trio which he fronted. He had always written songs, so fronting his own band gave
him
an opportunity to play originals alongside blues standards. One of his songs, "Christmas Time
Again," was placed in the LeeAnn Rimes movie Holiday in Your Heart, and appears in film and
TV
shows each season.
But he never quite forgot the thrill of that first Elvis 45. More country and rockabilly crept into
his record collection and into his playing until he formed a rockabilly trio. In 2002 they released
their first CD Rock - A - Way containing 10 songs written by Worden.
In 2004 Worden formed the record label Royal Tone Records under which he has released his latest
CD Catch Me if You Can. This CD contains 13 tracks, 12 original songs, including "Bazz - A -
Jilly", which is a nod toward his jazz influences, and "Heart of a Fool", originally recorded by
Eddie Cochran in the late '50s, but unreleased until 1982.
Contact information: Pete Worden, P.O. Box 252, Lancaster, NY 14086, 716-553-5538.
Pete@royaltonerecords.com - www.royaltonerecords.com
Johnny Rodriguez Pickin' Party Photos
Working to Preserve and Revitalize
Shreveport's Municipal Auditorium
Executive Director's notes - Johnny Wessler - October 3, 2005 - Many great things are happening at
the Municipal.
The response from visitors to The Stage of Stars Museum has been overwhelmingly positive. Tour
groups have
started showing more and more interest in visiting our displays and exhibits. Please remind your
friends,
family and business associates to experience one of the most historic buildings in Shreveport.
Guided tours are available every Wednesday through Saturday from 11 AM till 4 PM and Sunday's from 1
PM till 4 PM. If that isn't convenient, I will be glad to meet anyone at any other time, if
possible.
Please jot down our phone number, 318-220-3494 or come by and I'll make arrangements to host your
group
or organization.
Many of our Board Members helped James and Louise Burton put on one of the biggest concerts ever
seen
at the Municipal. There were more stars on the stage in one night then on the best Hayride show!
All of the volunteers should be very proud. You did a great job showcasing Shreveport, especially
the
historic Municipal Memorial Auditorium. Please make plans to come by and see James Burton's bronze
statue.
It stands proudly in front of the building where his career started.
A few weeks ago, I made an appeal for partners to support our organization. I wanted to wait until
the
James Burton International Guitar Festival was over. Unfortunately, Hurricane Katrina wrecked havoc
in New
Orleans the following week and while our mission in important, I believe many people have opened
their
hearts and checkbooks to help those who were completely devastated by the storm and flood. I pray
New
Orleans will rebuild, and I am confident friends will soon help us turn the Municipal into the
number
one tourist attraction in the Ark-La-Tex.
Shreveport might be in a great position to expand our economic impact. The State of Louisiana is
requesting
100% Federal Funding to restore New Orleans, but in the meantime, at least five major movies and two
TV shows
are taking advantage of the lucrative Louisiana tax incentives have moved their projects to
Shreveport.
Betty Jo is trying to sell the Municipal as a stage to film some of the blockbusters that will be
shot on
location here. Keep your fingers crossed, because this will just be another great chapter of
Shreveport's
Municipal Auditorium's storied history.
We have a number of great opportunities coming up soon and I want to thank you for your help and
support.
Please feel free to forward this to your friends so they can know all of the great things that are
happening at The Municipal.
Johnny Wessler, Executive Director
Friends of the Municipal Auditorium
705 Elvis Presley Ave.
Shreveport, LA. 71101
318-220-9434
318-393-3274 (cell)
JWWessler@aol.com
www.stageofstars.com
Country Book written by Jimmy Adams
CLICK HERE FOR LARGER GRAPHIC
A Legend Joined by Legends
The "Killer" Returns to the UK
Together with Other Legends
Saturday 12/11/05: Blackpool, England, The Opera House, Tel: 01253 292029
Wednesday 16/11/05: Dundee, Scotland, The Caird Hall, Tel: 01382 434940
Friday 18/11/05: Cardiff, Wales, Cardiff International Arena, Tel: 02920 224488
Monday 21/11/05: Aberdeen, Scotland, Aberdeen Beach Ballroom
(Charity dinner and show organised by Blackpool Promotions in association
with the oil community in Aberdeen. The funds raised will go to the Red Cross
to aid their relief projects in New Orleans and other parts of Louisiana.
Tickets for this special charity champagne dinner and show will cost £150.
More details later.
Thursday 24/11/05: London, England Carling Apollo Hammersmith, Tel: 0208 5633800
Saturday 26/11/05: Glasgow, Scotland Scottish Exhibition Centre, Tel: 08700 404000
For the Blackpool show only there will be package deals for £125 that will include
best possible seats at the Opera House and two nights in a first class hotel.
For further information e-mail
rnj@blondell.co.uk or telephone Blackpool Promotions 0141 221 8739.
JERRY LEE'S 70TH BIRTHDAY
COMING THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 29TH!
Coming Thursday (September 29th) The Killer, Jerry Lee Lewis hopes to celebrate his 70th
birthday! No excuses for the media not to pay any attention to this milestone, this IS
news! Too many other milestones in the life and career of this legendary performer
have already been ignored and this one certainly shouldn't be added to the list.
Hope The Killer will gets lotsa airplay during the coming days, TV stations around the
globe will show clips of his spectacular performances through the years and I'm sure
70 years of Jerry Lee Lewis gives newspapers, magazines, websites etc. etc. plenty
to write about! Happy birthday Killer!!
JERRY LEE FANS URGE COLUMBIA/SONY
TO RELEASE 'THE KILLER'S' NEW ALBUM!
From The Jerry Lee Lewis Start Page: "Fans have been waiting for more than two years now for
Jerry's new album The Pilgrim to be released. The release is now set for early 2006,
but this is still not officially confirmed and as yet Columbia/Sony hasn't given it any
publicity.
Unfortunately, it seems that the opportunity has been missed to release the CD
in the year of Jerry's 70th birthday, but this CD must see the light of day in
the year of Jerry's 50th anniversary as a recording artist! You are kindly asked
to sign this petition to urge Columbia/Sony to release the new album as soon as
possible
http://www.petitiononline.com/jll1/petition.html.
Below you can read what the petition on The Jerry Lee Lewis Start Page says:
To: Sony Columbia
This Petition is to encourage Sony, Columbia to release the new Jerry Lee Lewis album as
soon as possible. The working title has been 'The Pilgrim', and 'Old Glory'.
Some of the guest stars on the album include Bruce Springsteen, Mick Jagger, B. B.
King, Toby Keith, Eric Clapton and Jimmy Page. It is an embarrassment to Sony Columbia
that such an amazing opportunity is sitting on their shelves waiting to be released.
In Jerry's 70th birthday year, I call upon anyone reading this petition to sign it,
and do not purchase any Sony hardware, film or music merchandise until such time that
the album is released.
Sincerely,
The Undersigned.
All I can say is I fully support this initiative. I've already heard atleast thirteen of the
recorded tracks and can tell you it's amazing stuff every music fan should have the chance to
listen to, not only the Jerry Lee fans but also the fans of all the great
gueststars on the album. Below you'll find the amazing list of guestartists that have
contributed to the album. If the countless fans of all these great performers also sign
this petition it'll certainly cause a whole lotta shakin' at Sony's headquarters when they
eventually receive it!
'The Pilgrim' will show The Killer on topform, together with the most amazing line
up of guestartists. Columbia/Sony might be waiting for Elvis Presley and John Lennon
to return to the planet earth to also add their vocal parts to the recordings but I
can already tell 'em that ain't gonna happen so just release the d#mn album I would say!
Click on the following link to sign the petition
http://www.petitiononline.com/jll1/petition.html.
The CD will contain 21 tracks! The following 22 guest artists (!) have contributed to the album:
B. B. King
Bruce Springsteen
Mick Jagger
Ronnie Wood
Neil Young
Toby Keith
John Fogerty
Keith Richards
Robbie Robertson
Merle Haggard
Kid Rock
Rod Stewart
Willie Nelson
George Jones
Little Richard
Delaney Bramlett
Buddy Guy
Don Henley
Kris Kristofferson
Eric Clapton
Ringo Starr
Jimmy Page
'THE KILLER' INDUCTED INTO 'THE SOUTHERN LEGENDS
ENTERTAINMENT AND PERFORMING ARTS HALL OF FAME'
February 12th Jerry received his long overdue Lifetime Achievement Award and August 17th
he was honoured again. Prior to his show at the Grand Casino in Gulfport, Mississippi,
The Killer and his roadmanager J.W. Whitten were inducted into 'The Southern Legends
Entertainment and Performing Arts Hall of Fame'. Click on the following link for pictures
of this induction
http://www.jerryleelewis.nl/en/news.htm.
EXCELLENT SHOW BY JERRY'S SISTER
LINDA GAIL LEWIS IN NIJMEGEN
Excellent show by Jerry's sister Linda Gail Lewis in Nijmegen (Holland), Friday September
16th, an early celebration of her brother's 70th birthday.
Linda performed old as wel as more recent material. Lotsa high energy rock & roll
plus some country, blues and gospel which means a fine and very entertaining mix of
american roots music. Enjoyed both the show and conversation very much (as usual).
Linda's most recent album is called "Lie And Deny".
Attached a pic from Fridaynight you might enjoy. Tinka Ewoldt kindly
mailed me some. Thanks Tinka.
MORE INFO ON 'THE KILLER' ON THE
JERRY LEE LEWIS START PAGE
Check out the excellent Jerry Lee Lewis Start Page
www.jerryleelewis.nl
for more info on The Killer!
OTHER INTERESTING SITES
The Official James Burton Website
http://www.james-burton.net/
(as you all know James is the leadguitarist of The TCB Band)
Jerry Scheff & Hemog Blunth
http://www.scheff.com/jerry/
(Jerry Scheff is the bassplayer of The TCB Band)
Percy Slede - The Official Web Site
http://www.psledge.com/
The Official Blackpool Tourism Website for more on Britain's most popular
holiday destination
http://www.blackpooltourism.com/.
Blackpool is a town full of firsts: taller, faster rollercoasters, bigger clubs, even the
biggest mirror ball in the world plus world-class shows, cosmopolitan restaurants,
vibrant nightlife, an active sports scene and breathtakingly beautiful scenery on
Blackpool's doorstep.
Travis LeDoyt at Crossville's Palace Theater
[Nashville, TN] -- Travis LeDoyt, who has been called "the World's Best
Young Elvis," will be appearing October 1 at the Palace Theater in
Crossville, TN for two shows at 6:30 pm and 8:30 pm. Titled a "Weekend With
The King" LeDoyt will be performing all the great hits of Elvis Presley
along with the King's other great hits from the 50s. Tickets are $10 in
advance and $12 at the door and are on sale at the Palace box office in
Crossville.
LeDoyt has been selling out shows and receiving accolades from audiences
from all across the United States and performed last December in China where
he received an overwhelming response at two shows there. He was a hit at
Busch Gardens in Tampa where he performed for nearly 100,000 people over a
6-week period during the summer of 2004.
In addition to his recent performances in China, LeDoyt has been
experiencing great success over the past year with capacity crowds in Las
Vegas and Reno Nevada, Alabama, Arizona, Florida, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas,
Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, North
Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont and
Wisconsin. He has also performed in Chile and Canada.
To those people who think they have seen it all when it comes to Elvis
tribute acts, this is the one that makes them do a double-take. There is
simply no way to describe LeDoyt and his performance except unbelievable.
LeDoyt, who is based in Nashville, flawlessly captures the essence of Elvis
in his prime, and restricts his shows to the hits and ambience of 1954-1960.
Utilizing an authentic three-piece Nashville band featuring bass, guitar,
and drums, LeDoyt takes his audience back to a genuine 1950's concert. For
those who missed an Elvis concert during those years, it is a chance to
relive that exciting era. For further information and interviews, please
contact Dick McVey in Nashville at 615-264-3637.
Email: dickmcvey@comcast.net - www.travisledoyt.com
Billy & The Bullets CD Review
Here is a review of the CD from the September/October 2005 issue of ROCKABILLY MAGAZINE -
Billy and the Bullets, "s/t" (self-released) 2004 by David Larson
Ohio's Billy Capuano is sure to make anyone's "greatest unheard-of
guitarists" list. His inspired and rainbow-streaked soloing blurs
rockabilly, blues and country into a seamless and bouyant whole. (Original
instrumentals "Capice Paisano" and "Shifting Gears" seem primarily
vehicles for his remarkable stylings - and remarkable, they indeed are).
Also a smooth singer, handling most vocals here, Billy acquits himself
admirably on the spirited retelling of Yardbirds' instrumental "Jeff's
Boogie." (An impressive feat - ask any guitarist.) Drummer Bobby Capuano,
singer/piano player Theresa "T" Capuano and slapbassman Kurt England add
immeasurably to the fun. With their able backing, Billy has conjured an
easygoing yet assertive disc that's brimming with sparks and twang.
Upstart originals move with irresistable force and fit quite naturally
beside covers of traditional standards.
RECOMMENDED TRACKS: "Sweet Young Thing," "Belly Ring," "Jump Boogie &
Bop," "Shifting Gears," "Cap ice Paisano," "Jeff's Boogie." ***** - Five Stars -
http://www.rockabillymagazine.com
Rrevved up instrumental - 'SITTING ON THE OUTSIDE' is on the New
Rockabilly Magazine Compilation Disc - 'ROCKABILLY SHOWDOWN VOL. 1' -
http://www.rockabillymagazine.com/products/rabshowdown.htm
BILLY & THE BULLETS WEBSITE: http://www.billyandthebullets.com
GRITS Magazine Goes Digital
GRITZ vintage southern rock magazine is going 100-percent DIGITAL. After seven years, we have
decided to turn the webzine
into a full fledged, subscription based digital web magazine, and we hope you will all
join us. Does this spell an end to our PRINT counterpart? Well, yes, at least for now.
The reasons for these changes are many. Ever rising paper costs, postage costs and all of
the other essential elements that go into producing a high quality print magazine, basically
slammed us into a wall. It seems that most medium sized publications like GRITZ are, for
the most part, losing money these days.
Factor in the well documented news that web magazines are a huge and growing trend, and internet
advertising is back up to levels not seen since the dot-com boom of the nineties, and you
see where we're headed. That, and the fact that GRITZ.NET has consistently brought in
750K to 900K hits per month since its second year... AND the added incentive that GRITZ
online offers virtually unlimited options as far as in depth interviews and articles,
photos and in the not too distant future, streaming audio and video. There's going
to be a LOT more content for you to enjoy, including a vast data base of vintage GRITZ
interviews (we will be continuing to add in past interviews) and features. It's a pretty
exciting thing.
Not to mention the fact that GRITZ got its start right here on the internet seven
years ago. This is where we first met many of you for the first time. It's almost
like a family reunion. Heck, it is a family reunion.
Another point that was well made by one staff member is that in the ecologically minded
21st century, cutting down on the use of paper helps to save the planet, the trees and t
akes at least a bit of the trash out of our overflowing landfills.
We at GRITZ are looking forward to bringing you an even better magazine than before,
with all of the stuff you like in your GRITZ, and a whole lot more. We have some really special,
never before seen photos of your favorite artists that we will be posting on our splash page.
These pictures will change several times per week. We will add new interviews every month,
and update news as it happens. No longer do you have to wait 3 months to "get your GRITZ."
Reviews of Concerts, CDs, DVDs and Books will be added throughout the month, and you
never know when one of famous giveaway contests will strike.
So please consider subscribing.
As for our current PRINT subscribers, don't think we are just gonna take your money and
run. Nope. Just e-mail us your real name and address, and we'll hook you up with a digital
subscription that equals or exceeds what's left on your account.
We look forward to a bright future together, and thank you for subscribing. We also thank
you for not sharing your password with others. Please encourage them to subscribe as well.
It's how we pay the bills.Until next time, keep on rockin,' Southern style! -Michael "Buffalo"
Smith
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