"Finding Our Way to The Blues"...Journey 1

*  A Mississippi Delta Crossroads * Yahoo Images

*  Welcome back to Rock A Billy Rock!  My late husband Karo inspired this blog and left me in charge of finding notable artists of Rockabilly, and any other style of music that I pull out of my hat.  Karo lived for music...Rock and Roll, Country, Rockabilly, and Blues!  I grew up loving music, and I have my parents to thank for that.  Both of my parents played the piano.  My mother is almost 94 years old, and still has her piano, but I don't think she plays anymore.

My dad was the "Boogie Woogie" musician in our family.  He could run that keyboard with the best of them.  Dad was a Jerry Lee Lewis fan, and, also enjoyed Elvis and Dolly Parton.  One year my parents took us to the Grand Ole Opry in Kansas, where we enjoyed Brenda Lee and Minnie Pearl, among some of the other greats like Tennessee Ernie Ford!
Dad also played the mandolin, and, even though I cannot play it, I am proud to be the owner of his mandolin. 

* My dad, Leo Berry * Served  S SGT. Army WWII

July 11, 1922 * June 4, 1983
photo was taken somewhere in the early to mid 1940's

***

Having been a devout Rock and Roll, and Soul Music fan, I wasn't familiar with many other genres of music, aside from being subjected to Hee Haw, Lawrence Welk and the likes on Saturday nights as a teenager.  And, now...I can't get enough of the various styles and artists that have graced our radio stations and stages.
*  In the past 20 or so years, I have branched out and opened up to some of our very beginnings, and what I am finding is fascinating and exciting!

Just recently, some names unknown to me came across my desk here at the KardKorner, and I just had to find out a little bit about them.

***  So here we GO! ***


~ Robert Leroy Johnson

I guess it's safe to say we're going way back with this one.  Robert Johnson was born in Hazlehurst, Mississippi in  May of 1911.   Having moved around a lot in his youth, Robert grew up fast, and lived fast!  He did not take to the sharecropper life, and, desiring to be a blues singer, Robert taught himself to play guitar, harmonica and piano.  He became  known as a "walking musician" along The Mississippi Delta region.  In various towns, Robert frequented juke joints and played street corners, but was not considered "up and coming" by record labels, and, although known to be pretty good with his harmonica, he was rejected for his off key guitar playing.

I remember reading somewhere that folks would say of his guitar playing, "Such a racket you never heard!  Get that guitar away from that boy!" 


~ Robert Johnson * Yahoo Images

Robert hit the road after his second wife died in childbirth, he had no reason to hang around.  It's during this period that he tried his hand at guitar playing and singing, only to be disappointed.


~ Mississippi Delta Region * Google Images (thanks!)

***

Then, Robert Johnson disappeared!  I wonder if anyone missed him while he was gone...did the folks in the Juke Joints worry that something had happened to Robert, or did they feel like he just "upt and moved on"!
Then...by and by, Robert Johnson is back in town!  He starts visiting the Juke Joints and dance halls, and sits in on a few band sets.  Wow!  This guy was on fire, exhibiting extraordinary guitar playing and singing talent!  Robert eventually came to be known as
one of "The Kings of The Delta Blues Singers".

I don't know about y'all, but I think it's about time for a song!

"Me and The Devil Blues"

* Pretty cool, huh!  And how about that video...the illustration gives us the story as Robert tells it.  He sings, "Early this morning when you knocked upon my door, I said, 'Hello Satan, I believe it's time to go.'  Me and the devil are walkin side by side.  You may bury my body down by the highway side."

Regarding Robert's voice and style, I came across a few comments:  "This song has a creepy aura."  "Very spooky and haunting."
and, it was said that Robert had a "Ghostly Wail"

  Mr. Johnson is the author of this tale, and recorded the song in a makeshift studio in Dallas, Texas.  This is said to have been his last recording session in June of 1937.

***

What changed?  How did Robert develop such a good hand at guitar playing...or did someone just take the instrument away from him and tune it!  I'll bet there were a few tall tales flying about as to how his talent took a more positive turn.

*  Did I give it away?  Well, legend has it that Robert found himself at the Delta crossroads, not really knowing which way to go.  He just knew he had to develop his talent into something unique which would set him apart from others, into a class of his own.  It is here rumor has it, that Robert was visited by a dark being (Satan?) who promised to make him great in exchange for his soul, and a few years of his life.

*  Robert Johnson was well known as a womanizer, with a gal in every town.  I guess he could charm women into taking him in when he had nowhere else to stay.  I believe he was only married twice, but possibly fathered 3 children during his life.  Mr. Johnson also loved his whiskey, which may have contributed to his early demise, or not!

Although he was becoming pretty well known among his audiences and peers, Robert still didn't produce any big hits.  Within the last year or two of his life, he recorded eleven 78 rpm records and 29 songs with Vocalion Records. He recorded in San Antonio, Texas and Dallas.  In 1990, Sony released a 2-CD box of "The Complete Recordings", which was inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame.


~ Robert Leroy Johnson *
Yahoo Images

Somewhere in August of 1938, I think Robert's last performance was at a store or building behind the Three Forks Grocery near Greenwood in Leflore County.  There had been a big juke house out back behind the grocery, owned by a bootlegger who sold a lot of whiskey out of the place.
* They say that Robert would flirt, and was possibly having an affair with the wife of this bootlegger.  He offered Robert a few dollars to play at the joint for a while, and Robert was happy to play.  However, it is said that later the bootlegger gave Robert a bottle of whiskey (which was already open).  After drinking the whiskey, Robert became sick.


~ Could this be the Three Forks Grocery Store?
  Yahoo Images

Robert's friend, Honeyboy Edwards, also a Delta Blues Musician, got him out of there and took him to an acquaintance's home, where he died 3 days later at the age of 27.  It is believed that the bootlegger laced the bottle of whiskey with strychnine, or that Robert passed away due to complications from syphilis.

There are several sites reputed to be where Robert died, and also, where he is buried.  According to Honeyboy Edwards, who was there that night, the area was around the intersection of Hwy 49E and Hwy 82 near Greenwood, Ms.   The most likely burial site noted is at Little Zion Missionary.  Three Forks Grocery and the building behind it were destroyed in a tornado in 1942.




* This is one of the grave sites where it is said to be the most likely place that Robert Johnson is buried.  The location is Little Zion Missionary near Money, Mississippi.

Mr. Son House (below) was an influence on Robert Johnson.  Son was more impressed with Robert's harmonica playing skills, and less with his guitar skills.




Robert could sometimes be seen in the company of Johnny Shines



***  So...we've just about come to the end of journey #1, into the Blues, and I hope you have enjoyed the presentation as much as I enjoyed putting it together.  There is always so much more to a story, and I wish I could sit around with you all and hear your versions of our historical Blues!  Robert Johnson was one of the trailblazers who succeeded in influencing many of our today artists like The Rolling Stones, Eric Clapton, Robert Plant, and Bob Dylan.  In fact, Eric Clapton considers Robert Johnson to be the most important Blues singer that ever lived!"

*** Among some of Robert Johnson's credits are:  Rock and Roll Hall of Fame 1986, Grammy Hall of Fame 1998 for his single, Crossroad Blues, and Blues Hall of Fame for "The Complete Recordings" CD Box set in 1990.  Mississippi Musicians Hall of Fame 2000 and Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award 2006  ***

***  The photo of my dad, is exclusively mine.
***  The image with the smoking hand was acquired from Yahoo images,
but I manipulated the photo and added the smoke
***  I want to thank all of my resources used to research this information, too many to name ***
All images not mentioned were acquired from Yahoo images, and, or Google images

Thank you readers for coming by...please stop in and say hello if you can, I appreciate all comments.  If you are too shy to comment, you can check a reaction at the bottom of my post.
***  It's just one little click! 😉 

Do we have time for just ONE MORE song?  Allright!

Yay! Enjoy your week, dear readers!  Take care of yourselves and each other!

Give love and laughter (I hear it's good medicine)

Come see me next time when I pull another Journey out of my Blues hat!

"Lovin' Some Soul"

~ Aretha as I remember her!

She was such a lovely lady, to be sure!  We lost the multi-talented Aretha Franklin just under one year ago, and, sadly it seems only like yesterday.  This lady of soul was a true American icon...a powerful singer, songwriter, civil rights activist, and actress!  Aretha was one versatile lady who stepped right along with the times, changing her look and adapting to all genres of music!

Aretha was pretty shy, in her younger years with quiet beginnings in the church, where her father was a minister.  But, look out!!!  Aretha hit the soul and pop scene in the 1960's, copped a sassy attitude, and drove it all the way through her career!

***

Aretha wrote the book on R~E~S~P~E~C~T!  She commanded "respect"
and Got It!



~ Yahoo Images
* Respect charted at #1 on the US Pop Chart on Valentine's Day 1967 *

***

In 1967, Aretha recorded at the FAME Studios in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, where various other artists like Etta James, The Rolling Stones, and Wilson Pickett were known to record.




~ Aretha Frankin * FAME Recording Studio * Muscle Shoals, Alabama



* Yahoo Images

Ms. Franklin accomplished so much during her years as a top entertainer and favorite "Lady of Soul".  She was the first female to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987.  She was also inducted into the UK Music Hall of Fame in 2005, and
the Gospel Music Hall of Fame in 2012.

***
One of my favorite performances of Aretha's is her song and dance number in "The Blues Brothers" film in 1980.  She runs a diner, and has a hard time keeping her man from leaving to go on the road with the Blues Brothers.  Let's take a look!

* Don't you just love this!
* Aretha's "Think" charted on Billboard at #7 in June of 1968 *

Did I mention something about a "SASSY" attitude earlier?

Did you know...Aretha Franklin was also asked to sing at not one, but THREE Presidential Inaugurations!

Let me see...Okay.  Looks like Aretha sang at President Jimmy Carter's inauguration in 1977.
She sang, "God Bless America"

Then, along comes President Bill Clinton in 1993...
Aretha sang, "I Dreamed A Dream"

And, at President Barrack Obama's inauguration in 2009
Aretha sang, "My Country, Tis of Thee"

***


* Getty Images

~ Aretha Franklin sings at the Presidential Inauguration of President Barack Obama
January 20, 2009

The hat she wore with the BIG Bow went viral...pretty cool hat, huh?
A spokesperson for vulture.com reported that Aretha hoped her hat would later be displayed at the Barack Obama Presidential Library!
I have no evidence to corroborate that the request has been honored

***

I have had the pleasure of watching  a few memorial tributes to this Lady Aretha Franklin.  She was well-respected and loved in the music industry.  I for one will always be a fan!

***

Can I leave you with my favorite Aretha Franklin recording?  This song charted at #1 on the R & B Chart, and, at #2 on Billboard Hot 100 in 1968.  
Aretha said she didn't write the song, but she might as well have.
It was her story.
 ****
Please allow me to Thank:  Youtube
Ms  Aretha Franklin
Blogger
Yahoo Images
Getty Images
Wikipedia
theguardian.com
historyofrecording.com
pagesix.com
* and a few others * 
None of the featured images or videos are my property!

Aretha Franklin * The Queen of Soul * Chain of Fools!

*Thank you so much for coming by!  I hope you are all doing well.  Please stop in and say hello if you get the chance.  It's always nice to hear from you!

*** Please send your prayers to the folks in Alabama and Georgia, who are still experiencing trauma over the recent tornadoes.  May relief and the rebuilding of their lives come soon!

Be good to each other...laugh a lot, and Love, Love, Love!
*** Until next time! *** 💗

"Coolin' It Baby" with Eddie!

 * Eddie Fontaine *

Howdy, rockabilly fans!  I think we're finally approaching the end of our long, hot summer!  Are y'all holding up through the continued summer heat?  I hope you haven't let this stifling weather keep you from listening to some good old rockin' music and kicking up a leg to it,


* courtesy of Yahoo images *


Today's question is...how many of us remember Eddie Fontaine?  Photo above!  Isn't he a good lookin' man?  I hear tell he not only had a fabulous singing voice, but he wooed many of the ladies with his acting abilities as well.  Early in his career, Eddie had changed his last name from Reardon to "Fontaine", which didn't set too well with his Irish father.  Eddie told his dad that "Fontaine" is a 'slicker' name! Lol!  Eddie didn't let on about his age either.  He swore he was  born in 1937, when he was actually born in 1927!  But, he was sooo handsome, who knew...and, who cared about his age?

Eddie grew up in Rockaway Beach, New York,  with the early 1950's finding him singing in bars, and, passing the hat around, where he was discovered.  It turns out that Mr. Fontaine was one of Alan Freed's first entertainers on the Rock and Roll docket in the mid 1950's.  He was bellying up to the stage with the likes of  "The Clovers", "LaVern Baker", and "The Penguins".


* The Penguins *


* LaVern Baker *

   Fontaine is on the Legends list in the Rockabilly Hall of Fame, however, he was not an inductee, and is noted to be one of the most underrated singers of all time.

  Eddie claimed he wrote the following song, however, it didn't attract much interest once he presented the demo.  Somehow, without his knowledge, Fontaine's original cut was sold to Chess Records and credited to 3 other writers.  The song was a hit in Europe, it was even recorded by the Beatles, but it took 20 years to collect any royalties on this song!  The song did peak at #64 on the Billboard's Hot 100.  "Nothin Shakin'" has been recorded by various other artists, but I prefer Eddie's cut!

"Nothin Shakin' (But the Leaves on the Trees )
Eddie Fontaine 1958

* So what do you think?  Not a bad song.  And, aside from the Beatles, this song was recorded by The Mersey Beggars, Dr. Feelgood, The Shakers, and Royal Rockers!

***
In the early 1960's, Eddie made his way to Hollywood, California where he pursued an acting career.  With his musical career on temporary hold, Fontaine landed a part as a singing GI in The Gallant Men series.  Rumor had it that Eddie, who played a womanizer, PFC Pete D'Angelo, was the only cast member with charisma.
  Well, I didn't watch the series, and I had no knowledge of him at that time, but I have seen a lot of good reviews on the series.


* Eddie Fontaine * "The Gallant Men"


* Fontaine and Sharon Hugueny *
"The Gallant Men"

****



Prior to Eddie Fontaine's stint with "The Gallant Men" series, he appeared in the 1957 movie, "The Girl Can't Help It!"  Eddie is one of the performers along with Eddie Cochran, Fats Domino and Little Richard in this zany comedy with Jayne Mansfield.

* If you have just a little over a minute, I would like to present a short video from
"The Girl Can't Help It", featuring Eddie Fontaine's "Cool It Baby".
* courtesy of Youtube

* This movie didn't receive rave reviews from the critics, but moviegoers seemed to appreciate the musical aspect, colorful comedy, and, of course, Ms. Jayne Mansfield! *

Eddie did have a few bouts with the law in his day...well, maybe more than a few!  The big one was a murder for hire trial in 1984, accusing Eddie of attempting to hire a country music singer to run his ex-wife off  the road, with intentions of ending her life.  Well, evidently Fontaine had two prior convictions of child molestation and grand larceny, however, since Eddie did not testify on his own behalf, the jury did not learn of these convictions, and he served 4 years in a California prison.  He appealed his conviction and won.

***
Of his acting career, Eddie Fontaine was noted as being one of the most electrifying character actors of the 1960's, 1970's, and 1980's.   To name just a few shows, he appeared in Baretta,  Quincy, M.E., Happy Days, Rockford Files and Kojak.  Well, I'll be!!!  I faithfully watched several of these programs, and even though I recognize his face, I just didn't pick up on who he was!


* Happy Days * Henry Winkler as "The Fonz" and Eddie Fontaine as Fonzie's dad, Vito *
December 19, 1978




* Above is Eddie and James Garner in an episode of "Rockford Files"
October 20, 1978

****


* OH MY GOODNESS *
It's Eddie Fontaine (how did you know?)  Gorilla Sergeant
Planet of The Apes TV Series, Episode 1 * The Gladiators
September 20, 1974

In 1954, After serving time in the U.S. Navy, Eddie signed with RCA as a vocalist.  Labels Eddie had signed with include X, VIK, and 1956 Decca. VIK was a subsidiary of RCA, and X was just sort of a 'no name' label, that eventually featured cover records of R&B artists like Eddie Fontaine and also Louis Jordan.   The Vik label was closed in November of 1958 and, while some artists had their contracts transferred to the parent company, others left to join other labels.

Sooo...how about another song?  I listened to some of Eddie Fontaine's work, and my favorite song is "On Bended Knee".  I think it was released in 1955.

* from Youtube *

Wasn't this one just the best!  Eddie was a crooner, and, owned this song.  Ahhh...I can picture myself with a tall, handsome guy dancing to Eddie's cool, and sometimes gravelly voice!

* courtesy of Yahoo Images *

*  Eddie Fontaine remained active throughout the 1980's.  I believe his last appearance was in 1991 on the series "Sisters" .  Mr. Fontaine died of throat cancer in 1992.  He was 65 years old.

  I have really enjoyed listening to Eddie's music while writing this post.  Mr. Fontaine was a versatile character, who hopscotched through a career filled with hard work, and exciting people.  He was indeed an electrifying and talented artist!  

***  Well, gotta go for now.  It's raining cats and dogs this morning in the Lone Star state!  And, as most of you will agree...the rain is much needed!

* Texas Rain * photo by Suzanne

Thank you so much, dear readers, and rockabilly fans for coming by!  I hope you enjoyed today's post, as much as I enjoyed writing it!

There are so many to thank:
musicminder.com
musicstack.com
www.rockabilly.nl
www.discogs.com
planetoftheapes.wikia.com
Thank you also:
Wikipedia
Youtube
Yahoo Images

Please stop in if you have time, and let me know if you enjoyed my post.  Or, if you're too shy, like me, lol...just step in and say hello!

Have a wonderful weekend!  See you next time!
Be kind, and smile.  Give love, and you will get love! 💕

Shakin' Down with Big Mama!

~ Willie Mae "Big Mama" Thornton

courtesy of Yahoo Images

I know there's a bunch of you out there who like the Blues, and, I'm right there with you!  It is a known fact that many folks believe that the Blues singers and song writers from the beginning of time, paved the way for much of the rock and roll, country and folk music that has come our way.  One such singer/songwriter's name came across my desk a while back..oh, I'd say on Elvis Presley's 83rd Birthday?  And, this lady was one of Elvis's greatest influences in his younger years.

The lady I'm talking about is none other than "Big Mama" Thornton!  Big Mama started her career as an early teenager, right after her mother died.  She worked in a saloon at night, cleaning and singing  part time to fill in when a singer was needed.  Prior to her mother's passing, Willie Mae had spent most of her youth singing in the Church, where her father was a minister.  Big Mama was eventually spotted by a promoter, and, by the time she was in her early 20's, she was on her way to Atlanta. There she performed at Sammy Green's "Hot Harlem Revue", playing drums and harmonica in addition to singing.  What a treat that would have been!


~ Big Mama Thornton on drums * Yahoo Images

*  In the late 1940's and 50's, a female who was talented enough to play multiple instruments, was not likely to gain much recognition.  But in Willie Mae's case, these talents of hers were impressive, and, got her a record deal with Peacock Records.  It didn't hurt any that she possessed a robust, bluesy voice, with a knack for belting out gutsy lyrics either!


* Yahoo Images

***Speaking of "Hound Dog"!!!  In 1952, Willie Mae recorded this song, written by Jerry Lieber and Mike Stoller and released in 1953.  Subsequently, "Big Mama's" "Hound Dog" remained at #1 for 7 of the 14 weeks it spent on the R&B charts.  Well, as the story goes, "Big Mama" only received about $500.00 for her recording of the song, which was revamped a few years later by Elvis Presley, earning him a much more substantial compensation.  He, of course, was then launched into stardom, which continues to thrive today!


* collage created by Suzanne * images from Yahoo

***

Willie Mae ran that circuit during the mid to late 1950's, even performing at the Apollo, where she earned her name, "Big Mama" for her loud voice, size, and personality.  Apollo manager, Frank Schiffman said her voice was louder than a microphone, and he didn't want a mic to ever be as loud as Big Mama's voice was!  She could really belt those songs out!


~ How about these two 'mega-blues' gals!

I think Willie Mae and Janis Joplin, who were a generation apart, had a great deal in common!  I always liked Janis' rendition of "Ball and Chain", and since I didn't know who "Big Mama" was, I had no idea who actually penned the song!  Let's take a gander:

*** WOW!  This was "Ball and Chain" performed by Big Mama Thornton with the Buddy Guy's Blues Band, I'm thinking in 1970.  Big Mama even gives Ms. Janis Joplin credit for making her song famous.  Now that's a lady with soul!  Janis nailed this song and it happens to be my favorite Janis Joplin song!  I have tried to sing it myself, but, WOE is me...lol!  Send in the clowns!

***
In the later 1950's and early 60's, Willie Mae found herself heading for California and located to the San Francisco Bay area, where, she played some clubs with her old friend, Clarence "Gatemouth" Brown, and recorded on various record labels.  Big Mama toured Europe in 1965 with the American Folk Blues Festival, enjoying some success.


*  Big Mama Thornton * Yahoo Images

Rumor has it that she was a pretty tough cookie, and sometimes dressed in men's clothing.  This female "Blues Steamroller"  was always invited to perform at the Monterrey Jazz Fest in the company of Buddy Guy, John Lee Hooker, Big Walter Horton, and Dr. Ross, to name a few.  Her powerhouse vocals and guileless storytelling helped bring back "Big Mama's" faltering career during this time.  However, her sexual inclinations had become questionable when "Big Mama" appeared at the Newport Jazz Festival in 1980.  She performed in the  "Blues is a Woman" concert, sporting a man's 3-piece suit, and straw hat.


~ Big Mama * Yahoo Images

By the 1970's, it was evident that Willie Mae, "Big Mama" was drinking heavily, and her health was  suffering the debilitating effects.  She continued to tour, having performed in 1979 at the San Francisco Blues Festival with B. B. King and Muddy Waters.  In addition to writing "Ball and  Chain", Big Mama wrote at least 20 other songs:   Among her works are, "Quit Snoopin' Around My Door", "The Fish", "I Smell a Rat", and, on the flip side of "Hound Dog", was "They Call Me Big Mama."  
* Willie Mae's most successful album is "Stronger Than Dirt", which was released, I think around 1969, on Mercury Records.  The album ranked 198 in the Billboard Top 200.  One of her songs on this album, "Summertime", brought some very good reviews.  "Big Mama's" delivery of the song is said to have been:  "incredible", "This is my Big Mama, no doubt.", and "She is absolutely breaking everyone's heart on this song...fantastic!"



* I listened to Big Mama's "Summertime" performance, and totally agree.  How about you?
Have a listen!

Willie Mae "Big Mama" Thornton-Summertime 1970

What can I say?  Didn't that number just "rule"!    "Big Mama" said, "I didn't go to music school.  I taught myself to sing and blow harmonica, and even to play drums by watchin' other people.  I can't read music, but I know what I'm singing!"

The years of  alcohol consumption was taking its toll on "Big Mama", and by 1980, she had lost quite a lot of weight (255 pounds), due to illness.  She had to be helped onstage to perform sitting down, but still delivered magnificent performances.   I believe "Big Mama's last live performance was in April of 1984, where she performed her biggest hit, "Ball and Chain" in Los Angeles.

* Willie Mae "Big Mama" Thornton passed away in a Los Angeles rooming house, July 25, 1984. She was 57 years old, and died of a heart attack and liver disorder. *  

*  "Big Mama" Thornton is one of those "Unsung Heroes".  She was overshadowed by white artists, receiving very little credit and recognition for two major hits that she introduced into the  Blues, R&B/Rock and Roll community.  For her recording and work on "Hound Dog", she was quoted as saying, " I never got what I should have.  I received one check for $500.00, nothing more."  Willie Mae felt cheated out of the success she should have received.  Big Mama was never given credit or any compensation for "Ball and Chain", that was written by her., yet, praised Janis Joplin's version of the song. Big Mama's recording of the song didn't even hit the charts!  Ms. Joplin did reap rewards from the song, but frequently acknowledged Big Mama's contribution to the industry. *
***
* Big Mama Thornton received a San Francisco Blues Festival award in 1979 and
* She was inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame in 1984
* In 2004, the nonprofit Brooklyn's Willie Mae Rock Camp for Girls was founded
to offer a musical education to girls ages 8 to 18 *

* I am personally so glad I came across the story of this multi-talented lady!  I have listened to more than several of her songs, and, I am hooked!  I hope you all have enjoyed this post and the messages it has brought to us all about the 'Blues'

"White, black, rich or poor.  If you ever had your heart broke, you have the right to sing the blues."
~ Willie Mae "Big Mama" Thornton

I know it's time to wrap this program up...how I can go on when given the chance.  Thank you so much for coming by and paying my Rockabilly Blog a visit.  If you have time, please stop in and say hello, or check one of the reactions at the bottom of this post just to let me know how you liked the program.  I appreciate all of your visits and comments.

Now...I came across the most fascinating video of "Big Mama" that I want to share with you all.  I have to say, OMG to this one!  On this number, Big Mama really gets after it on her harmonica, and the song just continues to accelerate into dynamic excellence!!!

* (1965) Blues by Big Mama Thornton-Hound Dog and
Down Home Shakedown
with:  John Lee Hooker, Big Walter Horton & Dr. Ross

* Don't you just love this! *

Thanks to all of my resources...and there were plenty!
Blogger
Google
Yahoo images
Wikipedia

Gotta go now...see you next time.  Sending love and Peace your way.
 Please have a safe Memorial Day weekend! 💖 



* photo by Suzanne

Clickin' Heels with The NGDB!

~ Emmet Otter's Jug Band * Yahoo Images

Here we are, back in Rockabilly land, where we welcome all genres of Rockabilly, Country, and Blues!  And, just to be clear, I also love a little Rock n Roll, and a lot of Soul music too!  

In July, we celebrated the 70th birthday one of our favorite American singer-songwriter's, Jeff Hanna!  Yes, that's the one, alright!  Jeff is one of the founders of the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, and the longest surviving member of the group!  Having journeyed with his family from Detroit, Michigan to Long Beach, California when he was just a boy, Jeff formed a 'jug band' in the mid 1960's.  Hanna has done everything from writing and producing, to singing and playing a variety of instruments!


~ The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band * Jeff Hanna, sitting far left * Yahoo Images

In a 2011 interview with Paul Freeman of PopCultureClassics, Jeff states, "When we started, we were surrounded by surf bands like "The Birds", and, "The Lovin Spoonful"  He called his group, "Jug Puppies", with a blend of folk, rock and country.  The group's focus was to bring some of the earlier hit songs of Jerry Jeff Walker, Kenny Loggins, and Michael Nesmith back to the forefront.  NGDB   would hang out at McCabe's Guitar Store in Southern California, Long Beach, to be specific.
Not only could you purchase guitars and other instruments at McCabe's, there were guitar lessons available, and concerts performed!


~yahoo images

The NGDB was known to sit in recording sessions with some of the elders of Blues and Country music.  With assistance from the wonderful Mother Maybelle Carter, Roy Acuff, Earl Scruggs, and some really great musicians, the album Will the Circle Be Unbroken has gone GOLD.  Sounds like an odd venue, doesn't it!   In essence, the "elders" actually paved the way for up and coming artists to ease into the industry!  I, for one, am so proud to see the collaborations between different musicians who come together and give the world the best of their talents!


~Mother Maybelle Carter and Jeff Hanna * Yahoo Images

***
When Paul Freeman of PopCultureClassics asked how the band came across "Mr. Bojangles", Hanna explained that while flipping through radio stations, he happened to hear the last two verses of the song .  He didn't hear the title, and mentioned it the next day in rehearsal.  One of the band members had heard the song before, and "that's all she wrote"!  "Mr. Bojangles, written by Jerry Jeff Walker in 1968 for his own album, peaked at number 9 for the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band
on the US Hit 100 chart in 1971!

***

OK...I wasn't going to do this, but I couldn't help myself!
The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, performing Mr. Bojangles in (1991, I think)

~ From Youtube
Didn't you just love it?  And, did you get that drummer...he plays the harmonica at the same time that he's drumming!  And, Hanna has said that the drummer also reads Popular Mechanics at the same time, while he's playing!  It is such a treat to watch these talented guys in action!

I have come to appreciate certain artists that I knew of, but, did not follow in my younger years.  Now, when I come by one of those artists or groups, I spend more time checking out their repertoire.  Most of the time I find that I have heard a lot of their work, but, just didn't recognize it.  I spent some time listening to a few of the NGDB's songs, and found that I really like their style!  "Catfish John" with Alison Krauss is a really good song, along with "Fishin' In The Dark".  Great music and vocals on both!  "Just a Modern Day Romance"  is also top on my list of NGDB tunes, with a really great Country dance beat.  Jeff Hannah and the NGDB have performed with Linda Ronstadt, EmmyLou Harris, the Cash's-June and Johnny, and even little Hannah Montana!

On their 50th anniversary, the Nitty Gritty Dirt band performed with Jerry Jeff Walker, and, Jackson Browne, who was an early member of the group, and, Vince Gill.  The celebration was held at the Ryman Auditorium at Nashville in July of 2015.  How exciting was that?





~50th Anniversary celebration at the Ryman Auditorium

Well, Rockabilly fans, I'm sorry to say that it is last call here at Rock A Billy Rock headquarters.
For tonite, that is! 😎

Before the finale, I would like to take this time to thank:
Wikipedia, popculture classics.com, cmt.com, nittygritty.com, grammy.com
Thank you Blogger, Youtube, Yahoo Images, Google

*** And many thank yous out to my gracious readers...I love it that you stopped by for a visit.  Let's say a special prayer for the folks along the Texas coast in the path of Hurricane Harvey.  I know the authorities are working hard to get these people to safety.  Please get out of town and be safe! ♥

Stop in and say hello.  If you are too shy to speak, please give me a sign by checking one of the reactions at the bottom of this post.  No names required! The choices are:
Interesting, Funny, or Cool

Best wishes for a great school year to all students!

And, now...

The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, with Bernie Leadon on lead guitar
1987 hit on live TV

***  See you next time, dear friends!

Sleepy LaBeef Still Rides!

* Loading oil field supplies near Smackover, Arkansas *
Arkansas state archives, circa 1920's

How many of you have been to Smackover, Arkansas?  Don't all jump up at once, lol!  Well, I haven't been there either!  Looks like it may have been a pretty prosperous town back in the day.  This town's dramatic oil discovery in the 1920's led the nation's oil output. Up to this time, Smackover's economy depended primarily on cotton and the timber industry.

So, you're wondering how this city got its name?  Well, it seems as though early on, French trappers settled here, just a couple of hours from Little Rock along the Ouachita River.  Legend has it that the oil blowing "smack over the derrick", or a pioneer jumping "smack over the creek", could be the origin of Smackover's name.  Another legend claims that the name came from the French term, "Chemin Couvert", or the "Covered Way".

Every year, Smackover hosts an Oil Town Festival, so, if any of you get a hankerin' to make your way there June 15-17th, be sure to stop in and enjoy the eats, car show and free concerts.  I wasn't able to find out who will be performing at the concerts this year.

Could it be this guy?

  Sleepy LaBeef

Now here's a guy who was actually born in Smackover, Arkansas, and is still around to talk about it.  Let me introduce Mr. Thomas Paulsley LaBeff, nicknamed "Sleepy" as a youngster because of his droopy eyes!  He is the youngest of 10 children, born in June of 1935, just six months younger than Elvis.  At the age of 81, and, standing about 6'5", he is still 'wowing' audiences with his 'beefy' voice.
Thus, another name change to "LaBeef"!


* Sleepy LaBeef

Well, folks, they say that young Sleepy quit school at the age of 14, sold his .22 rifle, and bought a guitar.  He mostly played at the church during that time, and worked at various jobs as a grocery clerk, truck driver, lumberjack, and, even a swamp monster in a horror movie!  Yikes!  At 18, Sleepy took a highway job, building roads in Houston and left Smackover.  There, he jumped into the frying pan, so to speak, (keeping his highway job), and started singing gospel on the radio and playing in clubs for $8 or $9 a night.

* Sleepy LaBeef * Yahoo images
Not a bad lookin' guy, eh?

Sleepy performs a lot of medleys in his concerts featuring various artists.  He cruises through Merle Haggard tunes, dances a waltz with Ernest Tubb, and sails into a Jimmy Reed blues number.  Having co-written very few songs himself, Sleepy explains, "Why should I write songs when there's already so many good ones?"  He covers songs about things he has witnessed, even if he hasn't lived them himself.  Sleepy and his band might 'roar' through 70-72 songs by night's end.  LaBeef can rock through Chuck Berry and even Duane Eddy-without planning it first.



* Sleepy sits with "Time Jumpers", featuring Vince Gill
sleepylabeef.com

Just to name a few Sleepy Songs:
"Rock and Roll Ruby"
"Strange Things Happening"
"Mistery Train"
"Every Day"
"Ain't Got No Home"

In 1964, Sleepy was invited to Nashville by Don Law, to record for Columbia records.  But after 6 years of no-hits, Sleepy signed with Sun Records.  A couple of years later, Sleepy was with Rounder records,

 Here's Sleepy now with a powerful cut of  "Turn Me Loose" on the Rounder label!

That was a Rockabilly special, if I ever heard one...don't you agree?  Man, what a fast moving song, with fabulous guitar work and piano!  Sleepy could really pump out those beefy tunes!

***

You know, Sleepy said, "You're singing about life.  If I sing a drinking or cheating song, it's not because I like the lifestyle, and, I'm not judging these people.  I'm just an interpreter sending the message that you cannot drink your problems away, because it's still there when you sober up."



* Sleepy LaBeef performing in Memphis, Tennessee
 August 2015 * International Rockabilly Festival
* Yahoo Images

Sleepy is well known as a first generation rocker.  None of it's planned.  He always wants the freedom to play the crowd and change direction whenever the spirit moves him.   Below is one of the medleys Mr. LaBeef has performed live.

I LOVE this guy!  What do you think?  He can really pump that guitar.  Well, as I said earlier, he is a self-taught guitarist.  At the at of 14 he was playing in the church, and, he learned by watching other musicians play.  This is a real treat!  I would really like to see Sleepy in concert!

***
Ok!  Time for my thanks to:
Google
Blogger
Wikipedia
Yahoo Images
zipdatamaps.com
encyclopediaof arkansas.net
rockabillyhall.com
sleepylabeef.com
* Please accept apologies if I left anyone out


Thank you so much for coming by.  Now that we're in the midst of our Spring weather (unless, of course, your country is in its winter season), I hope you all are experiencing the grandest weather you could possibly have!  Actually, here in the Lone Star state, we're running the air conditioner one day, and the furnace the next!

Please step in and say hello if you get the chance.  I always appreciate your comments and hellos!  I know the Easter holiday is approaching within just days, so, please be safe if you're on the road!

Happy Easter, with love!  ♥




"We've got so many songs to do, so we'll keep 'em short, get more of 'em in."
~Sleepy LaBeef