Cools Sounds for Warm Hearts uke Elephant, a trunk full of blues, and Deb Girinus, alter- native modern rock join foreeson December 5,8 pm. to 12 midnight at the Grand Emporiim for a co-sponsored hen ft, Proceods from this concert event will fg to the Let Us Gol Foundation Free Clothing Centors and the KCBS Tristina Renee Gregory Memorial Fund ‘Tristina was the young woman ro- cently murdered in the Kansas Oity area. This sonsoless act of killing has brought auch grief to many people who knew her and afinancial burdon tothe family. Part of the proceeds will go to the memorial fund established to offset expenses as a result ofthis trajedy. ‘TheLet Us Go! Foundation/Free Cloth- Jng Centar, located at 2023'Truman Road, isa not-for-profit organization formed in 11989. Their main purpose is to distribute clothing as cheaply as possible with very litle administration overhead costs. Let Us Gol board member, Calvin Paterson, raportn that Inet yoat over & three month period, 8,000 people were served and 46% were children. Tho Free Clothing Center is open from 12-4 pm., Tuesday through Saturday. The Decem: ber 3 benefit will help Let Us Go! pay for general hills. Alsv, Calvin will ave Clothing drop setup in front of the Grand Emporium for the Free Clothing Center. ‘Come join in the fun, music, raffles and door prizes on December 3 at the Grand Emporium, 8 pm. to 12 midnight. ‘Tickets are $4.00 in advance and $5.00 at thedoor. Get your tixat Ticketmaster and the Grand Emporium. Call 531-7551 or 454-2098 for more information. Koko Taylor, A Conversation with a Queen oko Taylor has won eleven Handy Awards forthe Best Fe male Blues Vocalistofthe Year. She is the Queen of the Blues. For three decades, Koko Taylorhewnedabluesstyle that no other female vocalist ean match. She's got what it takes to sing the blues. Koko was born Cora Walton fifty-three ‘years ago in Memphis, Ta. When she was 18 years old, she moved to Chicaso with hier late husband, Robert “Pops” Taylor, ‘whobroughthertabluesclubson Chicago's south and west side to jam with Howlin’ Wolf, Muddy Waters, Jimmy Reed, Sonny Boy Williamson, J.B. Lenoir and many othore. Willie Dixon dizoovered Koko and ‘wrote for her a million dollar hit song called “Wang, Dang, Doodle’. ‘Today, Koko Taylor travels the blues circuit, continues to write songs, and is Inspired by her fans. “I look forward to ‘making people happy”, says Koko who I caught up with at her Country Club Hills condo on the outskirts of Chicago. ELT RRUES: d Best Blues 01 Shirley Owens: Koko, how did you get started in the blues? Koko Taslor:1 grew up dovn I in Memphis. 1 fe never had no, Kind of idea or dream about this would ha pen, what I'm Aoing today. 1c Bae was after I See Koko in KC, ‘moved to Chi- December cago with my husband Pops, Robert Tay- Jor, when I started visiting local clube. I knew about blues when Iwas growing up and useto hear it all the time on theradio ‘and of course during the Delta time. I ‘would listen to B.. King because he was Conminen on race 10 Blues Benefit Come help support and have fun at a beneftt for the Let Us Go Foundation Free Clothing Cen- ters and KCBS’ Tristina Renee Gre- ‘gory Memorial Fund on December 3, 3 WAMMCMIME EY p.m., at the Grand Emporium. Call 454. 2093 for more Information. Little Hatch will host KCBS’ Free Blues Jamon December42at the Grand Emporium. A general membership meet- Ing will be held at 8:30 p.m, Call 534- ‘7557 for more information, KCBS will elect the 1992 Board In January. If you have the time to volun- teer to be on the KCBS Board of Direc- tors, contact Roger Naberat 531-7557. Conmnuen on pase 9 JAM SESSION’ Featuring Little Match & the Houserachers Grasnch Emporium December 12-9 pm (Meeting at &:30 pm) nieHowlin’ Wolf Came from the Delta “Good evenin’ kids, The Wolf is in your town.” That's how Howlin’ Wolf would openhisshows,andbeforehe wasthrough, there was no doubt that the Wolf was on the loose. No other performer, blues or otherwise, could bring the kind of power andenersy toa performance that the Wolf could when he was in his prime. He would ‘assail the stage with a beast-like ferocity, YESTERDAY'S his huge head swinging from side to side, with his force eyoe relling andflashing. Ashis gargantuan body strutted and prowled up and down, he would al- ternately blow fa- sillades of notes from his harp and tear shrieking chords romhisgut tar while moaning, howling, and growling unearthly sounds, chanting the same phrase over and over, mesmerizing his audience and agitating them into a delirious frenzy. Wolf was a feral beast. Howlin’ Wolfeomefrom theDelta. He wasborn Chester Arthur Burnet!,onJune 10, 1910, near West Point; Mississippi: His family were farmers, and he followed the itinerant farming trade for more than halfofhislife, Except for afew years when ‘he was in the army in World War I, Wolt didn't leave the Delta until he moved to Chicago when he was 42 years old. For a few years, when he was ayoungman, Wolf lived at Ruleville, near Dockery’s Farms, famous as the wellhead of eliablues(See “Yesterday's Blues” February 1987). Wolt became friendly with the legendary bluesman, Charley Patton, who was still ‘working at Dockery’s at the time, around the year 1928. ‘Wolf started to learn guitar from Patton. The older musicians’ rhythmic, percussive guitar style that hypnotically droned a repeated phrase no doubt had a profound influence on the young Chester Burnett's playing; but more than guitar technique, he copied Patton's flamboyant ticks of showmanship. Wolf worked all week on the farm, but on weekends he ‘would often be in the company of musi- cians like Willie Brown, Son House, and Rabert Johnson. Wolfs interest in the harmonica de- veloped when the harp virbuoro, Rice Miller Sonny Boy Williamson II) married his step-sister, Wolf was soon good enough with theharmoniea touseitalong with his ular whet In performed, Woll aveled briefly with Miller and Rabert Johnson, 2 Mf DECEMBER 1991 but quit and went back to farming after a dispute with Miller over how their money was being divided. ‘Wolf was a huge man. He stood six feet six, weighed 270 pounds, and had ‘enormous feet. In fact, one of his nick- ‘ames was Big Foot, and another sobri ‘quet that alluded tohis size was Bull Cow. Ttisnot known exactly how he or when he got thename Howlin’ Wolf,” andhe didn't ‘use it as a performer until he started a radio show in 1948, The pseudonym prob- ‘ably came from the title of a cong by John. (Furny Papa) Smith that was popular in. the early 1930's. Also, there was another bluessinger, John Dee, whocalled himself ‘Howlin’ Wolfand who worked at Dockery’s Farms when Wolf was hanging out there. ‘Woithimsolf told several different stories ‘about his nickname, including a claim that the white country singer Jimmy ‘Rogers gave it to him. Anyway, thename fit. Finally, in 1948 when be was thirty- ‘eight years old, Wolf decided to try to make music « full-time career. He moved to West Memphis, Arkansas, and formed his first band. The personnel of the ori nal group was Junior Parker on harmon- ice, Pat Hare and Matt Murphy on guitare, Willie Steel who played drums, and a time, Wolf was playing an electric guitar. His bandbecame the hottest grouparound ‘Momphis. They had electrified the Delta Dues and brought them uptown. ‘The popular “King Biscuit Time” ra- dio show from nearby Helena, Arkansas, inspired Wolf to get into broadcasting. He became producer, announcer, ad sal ‘man, and performer on his own show over KWEM in West Memphis. The show was ahitfrom the first airing and continued to be popular throughout the area until Wolf left for Chicago in 1952. Howlin’ Wolf’ first recordings came about asareoultofcomepeculiarchenani gans on the part of the Chess brothers of Chicago, the Bihari brothers of Holly- ‘wood, and their agents Sam Phillips and Ike Turner in Memphis. Sam Phillips, ‘whobecame an American musicimmortal by recording some young rock-e-bilhes with names like Johnny, Jerry Lee, and Elvis, was doing free lance producing for both the Chess label and the Biharis’ Modern/RPM label. Tke Turner, an out- standing piano player from Clarksdale, Mississippi, who later married a woman ‘named Ting, was working for Phillips.as a sessions musician. Turner is probably the ‘one who first discovered Wolf, and the Biharis arranged for Phillips to record Conrmnen on PAGE 10. TTA eh Eyes DECEMBER 1991 The Kansas City BLUES NEWS is pub-| ished monthly by the Kansas City Blues Society, Inc. Articies, reviews, band ca lendar dates, anditems of interest must be| submitted by the 20th of each month, and! become the property of the Society. Founcing Ector Roger Naber itor Shidry Cum [Contributing Writer/Protogrephe Larry Smith Hypeseting/Layout Matt Quinn | Advertsing inserts must be receiveaby the| 1'5th ofeach month. Formore information Jon advertising in the BLUES NEWS, call 737-0713. FAX: (913) 384-9927. |Advertising Rates: 18 page. 4 page. 2 page Vice-President Vie Presisert Director Director Director Drrectoe Direct Director KCBS Chak person on [Membership Chairperson ‘The Kansas City Blues Society, 2] [Missouri not-for-profit corporation was| formed for the sole purpose of promoting land preserving various styles of blues music, Foundedin December of 1980, the Kansas City Blues Society presents: monthly Jam sessions, various local and national groups in concert, and our main| presentation The Kansas City Bives and| Heritage Festival. ‘Members receive the newsletter, ais-| |countson Society eventsanddiscountson| Purchases at certain participating bust| esses, Annual duesare $10 per person or| $15 per family ana $50 per Corporate| Membership. To join the Society send your | name, address, phone number and dues to: Kansas City Blues Society, P.O. 80x! 32131, Kansas Giy, Missouri 64111. For more information, call 531-7557 or 737-0713.Everyday KC has the Blues fr Canoums Wicese Bvery night/day of the week there is blues somewhere waiting to be heard. ‘This new column willbe dedicated to only Jocal musicians. ‘The calendar starts on Sunday, s0 Jo's bogin there. The Roxy Bar and Grill js still featuring The Blues Notions for a Jam session. That jam just celebratedtheir four year anniversary. “Little” Hatch will now beplayingst The Cajun Seafood on Bist Street. Sonny Kenner ia at City Lights, nowlocatedinthoPlaza. Thirsty’a ‘usuallyhasabluesband Sunday evenings ‘also, but you might call to check. Monday, The 39th St. Band with “Big John” Amaro on keys hosts jam at Biayney’s And ofconrse ncromthantraat from Blayney’s, the KC Blues Band are still hosting a jam. ‘Tuesday, it's back to Blayney’s. Dirty Sparks started about amonth ago playing there weekly. I's not really ajam, bu you never know when a friend may drop by to sitin,DennisLaffoon, keyboard player for Shooting Star will be stopping by from time to time. (Youcen also wateh for Dirty Sparicein tha fitment tha Rory, Timmy’ ‘igger, McGuire's in Olathe, and the Get- away in Topeka.) ‘Wedneedayitstimeto drive upNorth. Nightmoves on North Brighton and Vivion Road have the 88th Street Band ‘hosting theirjam. Or perhaps you'drather {0 out south. McGuire's in Olathe (for- ‘mally known es Ethalo's)on South Parker and 7 Hwy. is now featuring Blues. Dirty Spark’s is playing Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday there. ‘Thursday is time to check out the ‘Tuba, Of course there is good music there all the time, but on Thursdays the KC Botioms Band host a jam. McGuire's in Olathe is featuring The Blues Notions Thursdays, Friday“Mema” Rayisplayingat Mary ‘Annfa on 8th and Main. Millie Edwards ‘and the Hit and Run Band play most Friday and Saturday night's at a place called 12 West 11th, which is also the ‘eddrove ofthe place. Bringing up the end ofthe week, Sat- urday afternoons is when you can hear “Mama” Ray beltingout theblues again at Harling’sat 39th and Main. There is also 2 matinee with Mileage Gilbert at the Grand Emporium, and a feature guest at Nightmoves. (Call the club for names, Gates and time,) Also, Saturday night, JocalbluoseanbsheardatBB'sLawnside BBQ. ‘There aremanymoreplaces andpeople to seo, and Il try to mention a few. The Epicurean isa ood placeto check out, as well as Birdland. The Uptown Down and Dirty onthe Kansassideisstillgoing strong. Max Groove with “Duek" Warner is playing there (cal for specifications). ‘Watch Blayney’s for a band called Modarn Times. This tand consists of some of the former members ofthe City Light Orchestra. If you know of events upcoming or past you feel is newsworthy, please call Carolyn at 621-6727. Check out the KCBS Jam Session + December 12 © ESSENTIAL: BLUES iis rela al. toner The define ms wes alton ike aims tee emsiod”" — Rolie Stone / “Capa then sound of he THE COMPLETE COLLECTION Now available on four compact discs or four cassettes. AVAILABLE AT BETTER RECORD STORES, OR TO ORDER WITH YOUR VISA OR MASTERCARD, CALL TOLL FREE 1-800-344-5609. BLUES NEWS © 3_a| WINNER OF BEST BLUES CLUB IN AMERICA | “1991 & 1989. © Lilile Hatch 1House Pe Luory Friday. 6 to § p.m. Gilberts Blues Perty Lucry Saturday - 4 lo 7 p.m. DECEMBER SCHEDULE “ Y KceSiLet Us Go Benesit with the 39th St. Blues Band "1 DAVE MASONEFF BLACK 10 ABB LOCKE, LINDA SHELL, LEON ESTELLE & FRIENDS M2 KCBS Blues Jam -Litte Hatch] 1314 JIMMY THACKERY BAND "a0 FILTER KINGS © 2 ANSON FUNDERBURGH & THE ROCKETS WITH SAM MYERS (JOHNSON (Wew Year's Eve) eee Amaging Grace's Barbecue d832 MAIN O31-1004) io Bled alle: ‘ Join tha “! Blues Society 4 HM DECEMBER 1991 Record Reviews Johnny Heartsman Johnny Heartsman Thue Touch Alligator Records AL-4800, 1991 ‘The Oakland Bay area has given us sample of its music through groups auc! as Tower of Power, Sly & The Family Stone, and Cold Blood. Its blues is a mix- ture of funk, jump, soul and traditional blues. No one performs them better than Johnny Heartsman. His latest release, The Touch, proves this. Outside of the Northern Cali fornia blues scene his nam may be new, but he's not a In the 50's and 60'she worked ‘as a studio bluesician on 45 rpm releases iterally hundreds of them. It wasn't until 1988 that he eut his first solo album, Music of My Heart on the Cat “q Hat label. His next solo album was Sacramento on the German label Cross- cut, in 1988, On his newest release he has taken stinging guitar licks, chopping keyboard \guing flute, mixing them al tobringyoua full spectrum ofthe Oakland sound. His cuts “Serpents Touch” and “Ploase Don't Be Seared Of My Love" aro some fine blues-tinged tracks, yet in “At- titude” and “Endless” he gets downright funky, then taking youon a journey ofhow the blues and the flute can be mixed to be the same in versions of “Tongue” and “Oops.” ‘As the blues has many shades and Oakland has its distinct style, Heartaman's The Touch is an excellent example. Rosser Mier Katie Webster ‘Katie Webster ‘No Foolin't Alligator CD 4803 Selections: A Little Meat on the Side; TmBad; NoDeposit, No Return;Zydeco ‘Shoes and California Blues; Too Much ‘Sugar for a Dime; Hard Lovin’ Mama; It’s Mighty Hard; Tangled in Your Web; ‘Those Lonely, Lonely Nights; Mama Cat Cuttin’ No Slack. a Fa “80 Minnta Man” Bradley hanors and appreciates Katie “Mama Cat” aq, Webster in the liner notes of her new release, No Folin’! Bradley states, “Katie Webstersings thekindofsongs _ more often associated with male Dlues singers Guan with wore With a few exceptions [Koko Taylor and Denise LaSalle come to mind], there's an edge to the musieshechooses, anedgethat /a lot of women don't have. Katie's pot it ‘There is no one like Katie Webster, the“Swamp Boogie, Two Fisted Mama” on voeals, piano and organ. She has boogie woogied with the best for over 90 years. For No Foolin'l,Katiois rounited with two Louisiana friends, GuitarJr, betterknown 28 Lonnie Brookson “Those: Lonely Nights.” Another song tributed to ‘Webster's bayou roots, “Zydeco Shoes and California Blues,” she is joined by Cu. ‘Chenier on accordion. On “Tm Bad,” Katte testifies, “The whole world knows I'm bad. And I don't mean like Michael Jack- son either!” But, Katie's guitarist and co- producer, Vasti Jackson, isbad. He doesn't mess around either on No Foolin'! and helps Webster writeand arrangeher songs. Katie Webster can make you laugh and ery. Her music ean stir up your emo- tions, change your mood and make you ‘want totellitlikeit is, Findout why Katie Webster is so bad on No Folin’! Listen To Stumiey Maz Owens on KKFLFM 90.1 on Monoar, WEDNOESDAY AND, Truisony, 4-5 P.M Yourblues friends will appreciate a KCRS membership which will bring ‘your friends a monthly KC Blues News ‘and membership card for discounts on ‘merchandise, blues shows and CDs. Any blues lover should havea 1992 KCBS Blues Calendar featuring Jay McShann, Jimmy Witherspoon, Eddie “Cleanhead” Vinson, Lonnie Brooks, KCBS Christmas Gifts Stevie Ray Vaughan, Little Hatch, Priscilla Rowman, George Jackson, ‘Koko Taylor, Sugar Blue, Robert Cray, theBel| Airs, Chick Willis, Rufus Thomas and| Claude “Fiddler” Williams. For KCBS membership and calen-| dar information, call Pat. Flemington sftar 5 p.m. at (913) 262-9160.Blues Box Sets, Perfect for the Holidays erm, sami Well, the solstice holidays aro ap- proaching and people are beginning to ask what want. Other folksare probably ‘getting their wish lst together as well, so here are a fow suggestions of what blues fans might want to ask for. ‘This year's version of Robert John- ‘son: Complete Recordings (last year’s fa- vorite) could well be Bessie Smith: The Complete Recordings, Volume 1. This compilation (two CDs or twocassetves) offers the first $8 recordings of this, influential icon. The set has been described as “essential as any American musieyoucan ind.” Iewouldbe hard toargue with 4 Alligator Kecords’ 2th Anniversary Colletion has a more realistie price tog, with alist of artists almost as impressive. It’s another outstanding compilation no flues fan will want to be without. Great Blues Performers might be a bit ‘more difficult to find but worth the effort. ‘The four CD set contains 64 cuts from “a Chicago Who's Who with a little Delta thrown in.” Artistsinclude Muddy Waters, Howlin’ Wolf, John Lee Hooker, Sonny Boy Williamson, Elmoredames, Little Walter, , Etta James and Little Milton, among > others. 2) Thero are box sets of almost 87, UEdowsinsy sayners Some oe that. ee yhile some remain within the “Another setsure tobe highon ealm of the working person. Who- fa lot of people's wish list is The 2 Fier your personal favorite is, their Complete Stax-Volt Singles. ‘The 9- fork has been compiled in some way. CD set carries a hefty price tag, but “There are also some individual al- worth every penny oft, With 244 tracks, it recounts the story of the label that defined the Memphis R & B sound. Otis Redding, Sam & Dave, Booker T & the MGs, Albert King are among the artists ‘on this incredible aggregation. bums around aa well, A few suggestions might inclade: Memphis Minnie: Hoodoo Lady; Blind Bey Fuller: East Coost Pied- ‘ont Style; Raunchy Business: Hot Nuts & Lollypops; The Slide Guitar: Bottles, Knives aand Steel; and Chuck Wills: My Story. ‘AhappySaturnaliatoall Keep bhuzin. New Blues Revue... Boe Vor. ‘Anew blues publication made its debut this past summer, dedicated to acoustic and traditional blues. The Blues Revue Quarterly, out of West Virginia, contains feature articles on James “Son” Thomas, John Hammond, Memphis Minnie, Saffire, Fred McDowell, Henry Townsend, Blind Willie Johnson, along with regular col- umnsby Rory Block, Dr. David Evans, and Walter Liniger. Regular departmental articles include; music transcription, Women's Blues, Club & Festival news, artist spotlights, and a large album/book/ video review section. In short, this is a serious, information publication devoted to the world of acoustic blues. Unlike so many larger, corporately owned or subsidized music publications, the BRQ has had a grass roots beginning, with a very limited budget. Bullseye Blues is a corporate sponsor to the Blues Revue Quarterly and is offering a FREE CD/Tape with every First Class subserip- tion taken out by February 1, 1992. Sample issues available for $4.00. ‘one year subscription (4issues) costs $12.00 + Brd. class, or $16.00 - First Class. Blues Revue Quarterly, Rt. 2 Dox 118, West Union, WV 26456. Traffic Jam Blues Hour 4-5 pm and WEEKDAYS 7:20 — 9:00 am GUA BLUES NEWS © 5Fun Nights Full of Good Music It was a real heetic month, beginning and ending with birthday parties October 25 = Grand Emporium Little Hatch, Roy Rogers and Charlie Musselwhite It was Hatch’s birthday and everyone was ready to celebrate. There was some extraentertainmentbefore theshow actu- ally started, something special for Hatch. ‘The Houserockershaveaslightly new sound with the addition of Bill Dye on guitar. Hatch wasin rareform this Friday evening. He came down off the stage on several occasions, once coming tothe back bar where thore was abirthday cake wait- ing. He was blowing up a storm, but he wasn’t blowing no birthday candles out. When he finally got around to thecake, he blew the candles out in a single breath, which I quose should be expoctod. Roy Rogers was quite impressive. This guy is one heck of a guitar player and a pretty fair singer. He did a lot of fancy slide work. This isa player Ineed tocheck out some more. Ray Rages ARP FULL OUL OF “Electrifying Oe relentless, full-tlt, pies aoa Dera Se as Cra pS Breet ra Greats: Jim Co Exec’ ers ‘Musselwhite waspretty typical, which is to say quite good. Every time I've seen hhim he's beon good and after awhile you get to expect it. He has his style down and for the Blues in the Schools. prog ‘additional funds will be earmarked towards the KC he goes with it. Blows good harp, sings ‘good songs; what more could you want? ‘The band had a new bass player but he fit right in. This is a good band. It was a fun night full of good music. 5 To, Joanna Connor Band & The Catdaddys Had to make the road trip to Topeka toseemy fave, Connoranderew isanother act I have come to expect good parfor- manees from and I wasn't disappointed. ‘The band has a new album in the can and islookingforanew label, pussibly a naj. Thavetoagree with the Cat's Greg Tugman who commented that it’s time to get past cheesecake and get to those people who & can really play. That's the Joanna Connor & Band. This band sizales. Tony Palmer, re- cently married, did a lot of solo work § Before the band started, he was on stage 5 ripping off Led Zeppelin riffs, then came out and played some strong power blues. Connor did some of her usually outstand- ing slide work. ‘The Catsopenedby doing twostraight hours withoutbreak. There are good play- ersin this band. Sam Treinin really shone this night. The kid has a lot of chops. KCRS 1992 Blues Calendar feantifes photos of Riles immy Witherspoon, Jay McShann, Claude “Fiddler” Williams, Rufus: Priscilla Bowman, ‘Vaughan, Robert: Hatch, The Bel Airs, Eddie “Cieanhead” Vinson, and Blogrépnicalinformation: Thomas, George Jackson, Brooks, Stevie Ray y, Koko Taylor, Sugar Blue, Little iene ‘will provide support yam in KC plus © ORDER FORM Exhont sa checooey ort or “ge re KBs Geog” Sire ta (Check gayatle to “KOBS* ard Wal: KOBS Marchansee Desarent 7846 Wal i, Suite 1205» Kansas Cty MO 68114 6 M DECEMBER 1991‘Tugman hasa storchousefulloflicks. The ‘two saxophonists really compliment each other. ‘The band ie aleo intoreeting because of the wide variety of material they do. From Billy Joel to Antonio Carlos Jobiam to Hank Williams’ “Hey Good Looking” Gone over an Albert King riff Joanna Conner, Lare Bear 5 fave. November 2 = Ni. Eddie Shaw & the Wolfgang Ts¥as just as impreseed thie time ao T was last, maybe more so. As I said when they played on St. Pat's Day, this is one playingband haw hasa good strong voice, is an excellent sax player and does some pod harp work. Bassist Shorty Gilbert and drammer Kobert Plunkett were right upon all night long. ‘Than there's Bddie“Vaan”Shaw.This kid fs, as we used to say, in-effing-ered- ible. An amazingamount of technique, but he can be real restrained when it suits him. However, his playing is seldom un- derstated, ‘Not only does he have technique with great, light touch, he knows what to do with it. Hell introduce an idea, then ret- rograde it. Or play a riff, move it up a third, another third, then back to the tonic. His solo on “Fanny Mae Jones” was ‘reat. And the most disheartening thing for the rest of us guitar players ishe looks socifortless when he plays. Couldn’the at Teast sweat a little? ry 15-16 = Nit Joanna Connor Band Taeen looking forward to this week- endfor astile, First there were acouple of birthdays, inclading the Fair Bear's. Sec- ondly, T was wondering if T burn out seeing this band so frequently in 0 short atime. ae cree ee etion Dangerfield McNally opened while Connor did radio interview. D-Mcreinforoed my opinion this is a fine party band. They stick o standards delivered with plonty of drive. Don Dangerfield is an outstanding vocalist and John MeNally a fine guitar- ist, However, the secret tothe trio's sound may lay with bassist Pat Recobb who provides a solid foundation. ‘The Connor Band is an excellent age sregation. Drummer Tim Austin is an infallible timekeeper. I've saidbefore that Stan Mixon isone ofbest bass players Pve ever heard and I stick with thet, There are few bands around that wouldn't be {improved by having Tony Palmer on gu ter: And Joanna fe, well, comothing ope 2 cal g ‘The band did several tunes from Be- & lieve It “He's Mine” has single written al E over it and remains one of their most 2 recognizable tunes. “Dr. Feelgood” pro ‘nided both guitarists a chance to show off their considerable chops. ‘Thoy alao did several now tunes, “If ‘You've Got the Time, Baby, IGotthe Love” is ina similar vein to “Ho's Mine”; good dancable beat, eatchy tune and strong Iyries. Aversion of Walkin’ Blues” served suaperfact yahicle fox sormetszaling lide vwork from Connor This is « hard band to pigeon-hole. ‘They do some straight blues, some hard fanlk, oome good of R & B, some rock ged material and a lot of stuff that kind af falls into the cracks, Maybe they could propriate thelabel“An American Music Band? They seem to embody the spirit of The Electric Flag better than anybody else. ‘An aside Twas visited bya couple of cousinsfrom Boston thispastmonth. Steve ised toblowharpinablues band. We took down to the Emporium for the Hatch’ Rogers/Musselwhite show and Steve de- clared it"the best blues bar Ive ever boon in.” On Saturday he socompanied me to the Getaway to see Joanna Connor. His conclusion was thet the Midwest is « “secretly very hip place tobe” Talika tvkeepicthat wayzsecret and hip. <9) JOIN THE Kc BLUES SociETY & a Ter a ao : ee a oS BLUES NEWS m7Pmm om = “A major blues talent... The Touch instantly recognizable. the Alligator debut Lean, fluid guitar, skilful from Johnny Heartsman dynamics, lightning picking” On Alligator Ces & Cassettes ble now a bater record sores everywhere Membership Report have taken on the task of handling our memberships. Ithas been decided that we will continue to mail out renewal notices, contrary to “Membership Repor:” in the October Blues News In November, I have processed 63 address changes and 54 new members. Ifyou are planning a move please send your new ‘address to KCBS, P.O. Box 92181, Kansas City, MO 64111. Retitced sewnlathr ara aaoensd joe podue 0 and this can be expensi I want to thank Marcie Ryan for her past hard work as Membership Chairperson. ‘The KCBS would woleomesour now membors:Sonny Brown, Denise A. Stuckey, Julie K. Buzbee, Thomas G. Ellis, Patty ‘Young, Bill Weatherspoon, Barbara Rues, Merrite Family, Lee Tichen, Sarah LHLM. Young, John Majerus, Hans Mierswa Family, Hinginio Gene Mendoza, Barbara Morse, Samuel V. | Johnson, Rick Dean Kreisel, David Sarson, Joyce A. Seymour, Robert A. Bill, Shari & Cliff Brown, Steve Butler, Catharine Cozzarelli Beverly Eberhardy & family, Jon Erblich, Dee Ann Frear, David Wayne Honness, Jana Hover, Stand & Paula Knocke, Ron Lake, David Lipkind, Scott Lloyd, Jim & Kathy MeCoy, Jacinto Mendoza, Jobn Penn, Don Piekard, J.H. Pratt, Charles & Pat Rogers, Joe Sladek, Scott & Susie Stewart, Ken & Mary Sellivan, Katy Krauee, Stevo Dannie & Ian Ballard, Dale Groom, Bosky Waters, Thomas R. Edmonds, Jill A. Essig, Richard Fowler, Karl G. Hokel, Ernest & Teresa Nelson, Rene Plenert, Brain TT. Raymer, Dave Baer, Jack Briggs, Kimberly Kremer Thanks for helping keep the Blues alive. Dedicated to bring- ing you more blues in “02.” — Paraicx HLEMINGTON CHAMALEON T-SHIRTS NEW YEAR'S EVE IS NO TIME TO SING THE BLUES JOIN US: FOR AVERY SPECIAL EVENING FEATURING KANSAS CITY'S #4 BLUES BAND® BLES onus Midnight Chompagne Toast Lote Chectiout New Vear'e Day So ving in ‘92 for only $92.00, A price that won't have you singing the blues 8 HM DECEMBER 1991 E€OLOR Vanishing eo Rayal Fine TSHIRTS $15.00 each lus shipping’ branding per sve 1.50 each = Et eto or | = — Regs thane cova muita ele Some IG = Place male checkinonay oer payable: Kansar Ciy Bee Society B°S'q, Malt: KO8S Merchandise ot whew ee een ee Kansas Gy, MO Beithn What a Birthday Party! October 25,1991 was procialmed by Mayor Emanuel CleaverasLtUleHatelrs Day. It was Hatchrs 7oth birthday and KCBS threw hima heck of a party at the: Grand Emporium, Roger Naber surprised Hatch with a sexy strip tease dancer. Hatch was honored and presented with a large plaque by KC councllwoman, Carol Coe. KCBS thanks Pam Jackson who beautifully designed and created Hatch-s harmonica birthday cake. ‘The Ultimate Rhythm & Blues Crulse KCBS Prez, GrandEmporlumco-owner and Handy Award winner, Roger Naber: wil jump aboard the sold out, uitimate Rhythm & Blues Crulse for a week this month with Albert Collins, Buddy Guy, Johnny Adams, Jay McShann, Johnny Otis, the Persuasions and more. Next year-s R&B Cruise plans can be made by calling (800) 2556132 or (913) 831-1969. Harpman Harman ‘While recently enjoying his favorite ‘meal, catfish dinner at an eastside KC restaurant, Three Friends, James Harman reports that his harmonica Instrumen- tal, "Wake Up Call,” on his new Black Top release, Do Not Disturb, Is the new hot harmonica groove to do. Harman Is already planning his next recording to focus on his 30 years In the blues, past and present. Black Top Preview 1992 Black Top releases to look for Include Carol Fran-s Soul Searchingwith Clarence Hollman, Grady Gaines: and Lynn August-s. Plus, everyones favor- Ite, Snooks Eaglin-s Teasin- You. Wild Child Blues KC hometown blues guitarist and ‘songwriter, Glenn Patrickhas completed hls recording at a KC studio and plans to ‘soon release Wild Child. Patrick wrote and composed all songs on his new release. Watch out KC for the Wild Child, Happy Holidays! KCBS hope you have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy Blues New Yeart Don-t forget: send your -Blues Notes: to Shirley Mae, c/oKC Blues Soclety, P.O. Box 32131, Kansas City,MO64114 or call (816) 737-0713. WE WANT TO BE YOUR PRINTING PARTNER In-house design, type and camera. Copying and printing in quantities from 1 to 250,000 on sheet sizes from 3x5 to 19x25. Complete finishing and bindery services. Free pick-up & delivery. From start to finish, we make you look good on paper. iiSty-prints plus: 2012 Swit ean7t72 2006 Broadway ‘4748211 TeA618 3509 Broadway S$) JOIN THE KC BLUES SOCIETY & he ‘OX! 7230 W. 75th St. ¢ Overland Park, KS (813) 236-6211 Every Sunday ~ Blues Jam 812 midnight with The Blues Notions =D mber ’91 Blues alendar re & 28 Charl oe ie Su ar oe . te Lf BLUES NEWS m 9"Kees" From Pace | 1 deejay on the King Biscuit radio. And Rufus ‘Thomas was on WDIA. He use to play a lot of blues. In the meantime, my brothers and sisters, we would go to the field during the day and we would sing amongourselves. We would sing theblues ‘that weheardon theradio. One particular songthatIlalwaysrememberby awoman by thenameof Memphis Minnie. Sho had arecordoutcalled“MeandMy Chauffeur” and on other side was “Black Rat.” [used tosingthat andit was during thetimethat ‘we couldn’t afford electricity or nothing period. But that was when my brother ‘made himeelf.a guitar out ofhay bale and ‘wire that he put on nails behind our little shotgun house. My.other brother made a harmonies out of a corneobb and Iwas the ‘vocalist, So, we would jam at home and sing. What does the blues mean to you? ETAllthe time peopleaskmewhatisthe Blues. What's the definition. But, you Know Gia Teaplada to thei also thatblues is not a musie that make you feel down, feel sad. Those people who experience and haveachance tolisten tothe bluesalroady ‘know that it was designed tomake people happy not to be sad. Koko, what were some of the musi- cians who you jammed with like, for instance; Howlin’ Wolf, Muddy Wa- ters, B.B. King? KT: You know I sat in with all the guys. For instanoe, Howlin’ Wolf Was @ very sincere person. remember when Howlin’ Wolfeouldn':play the guitar. But,he went toschool andhetaughthimself: He turned out tobe a really fine musician. He was a hardworker and so much like myself be- cause he was very concerned about musi- ‘They had to be guys who really liked the blues the same as he did. Muddy Waters was my biggest inspiration. He really was my idol. I always looked up to hhim. I don't exactly know why. There was something different about Muddy, some- ‘thing special about him that really stuck to my ribs. B.B. King calls me his little sister but I'm his big sister. He's a sweet person and very nice. If you've ever been ‘aroundhim you know. He's gotsuch anice attitude, He takes time for his fans Hike I do. What inspires you today? ET: First of all, I really enjoy and love what I'm doing, singing the blues all over the world. My fans are so wonderful every where I go. I have no intention of doing, nothin’ than keeping on what T'm doing — making people happy. Like when I was down in Memphis for the Awards and I was talkingto Willie Nelson. He asked me to write a song for me and him! These ‘kindsof things givemeinspiration togoon and keeps me hanging in there. Are you working on a new release? ET: [am tryingto writemore. Each album would like to have three to four tunes that I wrote myself. [haves tape recorder that Ieall my company keeper. Whatever comes in mind, Ijust put it down on tape. Little by little lendeup getting something ‘together. I am planning on going into the “studionext year You are coming to Kansas City at the Grand Emporium on Dec 5? KT: Yes, with my Blues Machines: Eddie Kingon rhythm guitar, Jamos Johnsonon lead guitar, Jerry Murphy on bass, Jim Dortchon keyboards andFrank Alexander ‘on drums. Thope everyone will be there. 1 will be very disappointed if they're not. * YesTeROAYs. BLUES” FROM PAGE 2 him. In the meantime, they hired Turner ‘to work for them as a talent scout. This ‘madoPhillips mad, sohegave thomasters from Wolfs recording session tothe Chess brothers. Wolfs first recording, “How Many More Years" and “Moaning at Midnight” was released in August 1951. The record was an instant hit. Very shortly after- ‘ward, the Bihari brothers released a ver- sion entitled “Morning at Midnight,” pro- uced by Turner for their RPM label. This eut-throat rivalry to record Wolf contin- ued for a couple of years until Chess signed him to an exclusive contract in 1952, The antics of these jousting record makers must have beon bewildering to this recent dirt farmer, but Wolf didn’t ming; financtally, homadeout well.(Chess MCA Recordshasjust released aboxedset of CD's covering Wolfs entire recording career.) With the move to Chicago in 1952, Wolf's music lost a lot of its primitive roughness, New jazz.and R&B-influential band members made for a tighter and more disciplined sound. However, violent and aggressive performing did not abate. If anything, it booame wilder. Howlin’ ‘Wolf continued to be popular in the Chi- cago blues scene and on Chess Records until his death from cancer in 1976. Primary Sources: 1. William Barlow, Looking Upand Down. Philadolphta: Temple University Pross, 1989. 2. David Evans, Big Road Blues. New York: Da Capo Press, 1982. 8. Robert Palmer, Deep Blues. New York: Penguin Books, 1982. 4. Mike Rove, Chicago Blues, Da Capo Press, 1975. Screg eae SNe aa aad 5110 N.E. Vivion Rd. Kansas City, MO Blues Happens at Vac ee er) poem! Moers eM tea pes pecaicc caret Mama Ray oe Dee Scat Monday is Import Night - Texas Tuesday -24 oz. Beers ese Se Wednesday is Open Jam Night featuring The 39th St. Blues Band pee pein! EU ogee eer ny pee ene ecg Sree e eg BS re Dec. 31/New Year's Eve nine Joanna ‘Connor Band & Smokin’ Joe Kubek - Thursday is Ladies Night - Live Music- Free Pool - era eae a eee rere en eee as 10 HM DECEMBER 1991i pooooocuogpes eS SUNDAY JAMS ® JAMS - Bring your instruments ‘Epicurean Lounge & Restaurant, 7502 Troost, 333-8383, Gionsexood tore sits 756347", ve ran hy ape lve Ch, 4749 Pennan, 4446969, Sey Kennet IH C4, Turan ea 6Jackson, 2419030, The Sues Thunder Band. 730 mre Rony, 7290. 75th Street 236-6211, festuing “The Blues Notions, 8:00 p.m. -12:00 pm. fee adver) MONDAY JAMS Blayney’, 415 Westport Rosa, 561-3747, 3901 St. Blues Band, 10 pm. M_ Hurricane, 4088 Broadway, 753.0868, KC Blues Band, 10 pm2 am TUESDAY JAMS Blayney’, 415 Westport Road, 5613747 The Levee, 4314 & Man, 561282), Sony Kenner Dies Gnd, 6220-1230 pr Tre Point 917 West 44th, 531-9800, Lonnie Ray Blues Band, 9pm- 1:00am WEDNESDAY JAMS “The Levee, 43rd & Main, 5612821, The 1234 Band, 8:30-12:30 pm 1 Nigrumoves, 5110 NE Vion Rd, 4524393, The 39th St Blues Band, THURSDAY JAMS The Tub, 333 Southwest BN at Broadway, 471-6510, KC Bouoms Band. 3:00pm SATURDAY JAMS Chateau Lounge 5934 Prospect, 523-9333, The Freeze, 3-8 pm. Grand Emporum (sce advert). 3632 Man. 531-7587, Gilberts Saturday Blues Pry. 47 pr Hanings Upstais, 3941 Main, 5310303, Dana Ray & Rich Van Sant. 2-6 pm H&M Barbecue, 1715 N. 13tn, Kersas City, KS, ADD Locke, 10 pm MCs Lounge, 5709 Troost 363-9376, Saturday & Sunday, The Goucho Band, 4:00-6:00 pm. OTHER CLUBS 58. s Lawnside 880, 1205 85th st, 8827427 fectand, 1600 F. 19th, 882.6463, Ebjons, 1601 E. 180) Sweet, 221-6612 “The Fabulous ifemo Snow Lounge, 4038 Troost Avenue, 931-4000 ‘Grand Emporium Fridays-Lite Hatch’s Housenarty, 6-8p.m. dienes ager 1823 W. 39th St 753-2488 Kars Bonton Maison, 1515 Westport Read, 934-9417 Mary Aon. son Man, 8th & Main, 4747025, Patches, 3041 Main, 931.2711 ‘he Phoenix, 302 W. Bh Suet 472-0001 Gust Bute & Saloon, 1010 Broadway, 471-1918 ‘Swouds Restaurant, 454-9600, 333-212, featuring Roy Searcy Uptown-Dewn f Bit 6508 Marty Mision Ke. 236-4300 BLUES RADIO. KANUEM 91.5 Sunday 8 pm. = "Blues in the Night'with Kyle Never KoURFM 89.3 Fricay 8pm. “Blues Stage" 9pm. “Friday Fish Fry” with Chuck Haddock Soturday pam. “Saturday Night Fish Fry" Chuck Haddock 12 Mignight “Lonesome Pine Special” rarer 90.1 Daly 4:00 p.m. ~ Traffic Jam Blues Hour Weekdays 7:30 am. Blues in the Morning Kercem 101 Sunaay 77 p.m.— “Kansas Cty Biues Show" wth Lingszy Shannon KPRS-FM 103.3 Mondayfr. 12. noon “Lunch atthe Oldies” KOXLAM Saturday 3 pam. “Blues for Two" with JS. Marsha KIDZAM 1510 Daily FREE Bullseye Blues CD/Tape offer with a 1st.Class Subscription to the AN ACOUSTIC & TRADITIONAL BLUES DIGEST Subscribe now to Blues Reowe Quarterly and get a Brand new Bullseye Blues CD or cassette tape free! With your paid first class subscription to the BRQ not only will you receive 4 big issues of in-depth insight on your favorite kind of music, you can alco have your pick of the following Bullseye Blues new releases - Little Jimmy King & The MemphisSoul Survivors, TheSmokin' Joe Kubek Band featuring B’Nois King, or Champion US ‘THESMOKIN'JOE = ‘KUBEK BAND, featuring BNois King, Steppin’ Ot Fexas Style, BB 9510 LITTLE JIMMY KING SOUL SURVIVORS, Forcoer And Ever = ‘BBS512 fo [ny = The One CIT? To Watch That's just $16.00 for an uninterrupted year of Blues Revue Quarterly magazine, andafull length (no fillers or samplershere) Bullseye Blues CD ortape. Anincredible deal for any blues fanatic. All you need to do is...send $16.00 check or money order to: Blues Reoue Quarterly, Rt 2, Box 118, West Union, WV 26456 along with your choice of any one of the above three Bullseye Blues titles, be sure to specify CD or tape. That's it! No strings, no gimmicks, just great honest blues from Bullseye Blues and the Blues Revwe Quarterly. pss \ Bulleeye Blues Offer expires FEB 1. 1992, Please allow 4-6 weeks delivery for CDS and Tapes. Offer good only within Continental US. Blues Revue Quarterty issue No 3 willbe out December 1st, 1991. Please indicate which issue you wouid lke fo start your ssupsoription wath (Issues 1 & 2 sill available fora short wiule). BLUES NEWS M11—— SA é a ian €or Peles * AT Gk Doors PY Pipa 20as Ne OGG Srp Bria sa mee eee Io INS + 3832 MAIN« K.C."5 Oasis OF tha BLUES? mo Bulk Rate USS. Postage Paid Permit #3407 Kansas City, MO. Kansas City Blues Society P.O. Box 32131, Kansas City, MO 64111 Do Not Forward = Address Correction Requested = Return Postage Guaranteed 12. DECEMBER 1991