2013 Mississippi Valley Blues Festival • July 4 - 6 • LeClaire Park, Davenport, Iowa • 2 MVBS.org | G President MVBS from the Welcome Society legend or two inthere somewhere. as you can –for there’s sure afuture to be but affordable. And inas take many artists help to make festival this not only possible thank avolunteer –one of people who those at our photo exhibit, and to time eventake vendors, visit workshops, free the alook take Park, river inthe take view, patronize our year. annually, and Ihope you agree with that this years to bring you atopnotch blues festival haveBlues Society worked hard over the a slogan. We here at Mississippi the Valley Legends Come to Play,” it’s more than just onesee of our T-shirts proclaiming “Where go on and on. My point is that you when Bonamassa and Susan Tedeschi. And Icould and Memphis Slim. In years middle the Joe early years, had we John also Hooker Lee Mississippithe Valley Blues Festival. In those many legends have who come to play here at autograph from John Hammond, one of the now for years, several treasures dearly her tokens. beer sell over could see they counter the so books and were little so that we sat on them phone worked festival this as volunteers they when quickly. so passes My two daughters even festival! This year yours happens truly to President, Mississippi Valley Blues Steve Brundies stroll groundsSo the at beautifulLeClaire One of daughters, those inCalifornia 2013 M welcome to our 29th-annual blues sissippi Valley Blues Society, and reetings from of offices the Mis the - Photo by Fretty Dennis ississippi V how time the can’t believe children, I as with my and, yeah, other festivals ofall 28 the herebeen for folks who’s onebe of the alley B lues F Children 14andunderare free ifaccompanied by anadult. At theGate Advance Tickets (through June30) estiv •Mississippi Valley Street, officeHarrison $15);Call (102South Davenport, first:(563)322-5837 BluesSociety • The Muddy Waters (1708State Street, Bettendorf, $15) (141415thStreet, •Rascals Moline, $15) •Hy-Vee stores Cities, intheQuad Clinton, andMuscatine ($15.50) $20 eachday Available at: • MVBS.org ($15 plus $2 service fee• MVBS.org perorder) ($15plus$2service al Ticket Information

3 | 2013 Mississippi Valley Blues Festival • July 4 - 6 • LeClaire Park, Davenport, Iowa • MVBS.org 2013 Mississippi Valley Blues Festival • July 4 - 6 • LeClaire Park, Davenport, Iowa • 4 MVBS.org | S Selwyn Birchwood Selwyn Band: Thursday, July4,3p.m., Bandshell The theLuck BusinessBehind out there ifyou want people to show up. ...It’s me. ...Iknow necessity the of getting your name sitting inwith band, the people got so to hear just introduced myself,” he said. “I up ended club]the and and shook hands with everybody printed up about 60flyers or and so Iwent [to of laying around hotel the room, Iwent and for scheduled with agig two days later. “Instead he and his band were inLincoln, Nebraska, to my music,” he said. MBA. “I was ...kindof how seeing it can apply business marketing, his and earned inDecember as well. Ialways wanted ifIcould doit.” to see graduate degree ....Ialways saw it as achallenge lot to easier get ajobifyou’ve got adegree or a up and you have to get ajobinpinch, it’s a it evenmore, if, because Lord forbid, dried gigs ifyou’re Ithink way: playing music, you need you’re playing music. Ilooked at it other the people say that you don’t schoolbecause need do schoolwork and dowell inschool. ...Alot of interview. “My family has always pushed me to scholastic of part it,” he said inarecent phone not your father’s (or grandfather’s) bluesman. Birchwood asinger –also and –is songwriter Administration degree. to Suffice say that Instead, it says: “Selwyn Birchwood, MBA.” King award as Nashville the event’s top guitarist. Challenge. It doesn’t say that he won Albert the For example, Wednesday the before we talked, he gotSo his undergraduate degree in “That’s always abig of part been my life is the And, yes, that is aMaster of Business 2013 M prize 2013International inthe Blues doesn’t note that his band took top the Birchwood’selwyn e-mail signature ississippi V alley B lues 13, playing things from radio. the Eventually, of Birchwood experience), guitar started at age that sounds like it has acouple decades extra fortunegood has played arole. other Idon’t thing. alot think of it’s luck.” ‘Man, you got lucky’ to or dothis that or the with somebody. ... always alot different you’re when face-to-face F Now inhis late 20s(but with asinging voice While he’s undoubtedly put inhis work, some “A lot ofat look people times will me and say, estiv al recognition.” he said. “It was really niceto get some thatcountry are more A-list kinda festivals,” you on about festivals seven throughout the combating that. “Just by get winning, they wins, he said, were helpful especially in home. to extend its reachtrying beyond its Florida and that’s for made it difficult an emerging band Clubs are cutting back on live music, he said, to stayof tough busy trying and stay booked.” aside to it up.set finish dried and, Birchwood admits, money the because he’d of because part discussions with record labels – albumthe early year, this but it was delayed in next year. The band originally planned to release releasing CD, anew Hoodoo titled Stew releasing touring. After college, he didmore-extensive said, they college but would with himduring gig breaks. him on road. the passport,” he said. Within amonth, took Rhodes songlet me the finish and just asked ifIhad a andsmiled looked back at me and didn’t even he looked over to his bass player and kinda “I got about through halfway asong ...and but it involved Birchwood playing for Rhodes: but you have to introduce me to person.’” this from first note. the ...‘I don’t know is, this who CD,Rhodes and he was hooked “pretty much guys inagarage on weekends.” band. Ithought it was just abunch of drunk always tell me that his neighbor had ablues he said, friend, Ahigh-school “would Rhodes. want to do.” and he has inhis energy playing. ...That’s what I he “that recalled. kindof emotion and feeling House of Blues inOrlando. “It just me,” floored that Guy was playing that agig week at the including Buddy Guy. but old-school the blues guys as his influences,” Ilooked atwhen his bio, he just had nothing it just sounded completely different to me. So really curious where he got that from, because chords, he was doing. Iwas and So everything of sounds the that he was getting, some of the heard him,it just bizarre sounded so –some he discovered Jimi Hendrix: firstI time “The In past the year, he said, “it’s just kind been Birchwood eventually formed his own band, encouragedRhodes Birchwood to on focus It took sixmonths for that meeting to happen, But gave friend the Birchwood aSonny The next happy accident was meeting Sonny Birchwood was 17,and it just happened so His band’s International Blues Challenge FL Boy in2011.He’s planning on by JeffIgnatius , early early , 5 | 2013 Mississippi Valley Blues Festival • July 4 - 6 • LeClaire Park, Davenport, Iowa • MVBS.org al v esti by Mike Schulz Mike by F Continued On Page 6 On Page Continued lues B alley V “You know, I think a lot of girls stand in stand girls I think of a lot know, “You immediately that, a dream wasn’t it Yet the of years the early during was It in the service was “I a industry quite Orleans kind of throw to the blues. And And the blues. to throw kind of Orleans Pinetop and Turner, Joe Big was there ... . Boy Williamson Sonny and Perkins, and a hairbrush with their mirror of front was that and a microphone, it’s like sing It me. shaped definitely Music me. definitely out me trouble of kept it trouble, in me got music types things of all different ... . There’s through went I probably and you, give can been a dream.” always has them.all Music of make to sought high Sowers school, after I that in. “The career only a profession “I says. she a while life,” was for pursued of did a lot and States the United traveled a kind of definitely was and hitchhiking, time.” long gypsy a pretty for gypsy her that landed millennium lifestyle began first she where West, in Key Sowers art of the street with income her augmenting she donations whatever for singing busking, amass. could I also “But Sowers. says times,” of number ississippi 2013 M 2013 Sowers says that as a child, her interest in interest her a child, as that says Sowers extensive an was had she what part of And Professor like people into I also got “But we’re meeting, and just getting our music music our getting just meeting, and we’re always It’s goal. ultimate my That’s there. out goal.” been my lessons, both piano with originated music her with six, and age began at which she a folk was collection. “She record mother’s me taught she the “and artist, says singer,” taught and the guitar, on chords few first my types of all different about some much folk traditional of a lot with I grew up music. all I also stole – but ’70s folk ’60s and – like vinyl. Led Sabbath her Black Zeppelinof and it.” had she it, name You which Sowers music, blues collection of Muddy a huge was “I of. grew fond quickly Walter Little loved “I says. she fan,” Waters from players the harmonica of some and consider people that I know in theback day. a was she me to jazz, but Billie Holliday a lot me taught She full-fledged singer. blues feel that and of notes, of the bending about makes-you-want-to-dive- – that the blues singing. of off-a-cliff feel New that “and continues, she Longhair,” -

view, I ask Davina Davina I ask view, oward the end of our our of the end oward inter phone recent

“Really, I just want to keep doing what I’m I’m what doing keep to want I just “Really, Downbeat states, meanwhile, magazine, Describing Sowers as the “hardest- as Sowers Describing A Pennsylvania native native A Pennsylvania I’m fairly certain she’s certain she’s fairly I’m She answers with her her with answers She

Davina & the Vagabonds: Thursday, July 4, 8 p.m., Tent July 4, 8 p.m., Thursday, Vagabonds: & the Davina The Road to World Domination, Via Minnesota Via Domination, World to Road The “Traveling, and meeting the people that that the meeting people and “Traveling, about her future plans with the Vagabonds. the Vagabonds. with plans future her about doing,” she says, more seriously this time, this time, seriously more says, she doing,” Sowers and her music. her and Sowers that romance might just as well be well between as just might romance that in a divine declaration of romance” – and – and romance” of declaration in a divine players and a bayou-thick stand-up bass.” stand-up a bayou-thick and players heights impossible near to zips “Davina Orleans flavor, driven home by dueling horn horn dueling by home driven flavor, Orleans Winehouse, and her band’s rollicking New New rollicking band’s her and Winehouse, Bonnie Raitt, Etta James, and a little Amy Amy a little and James, Etta Bonnie Raitt, sort of hard-mattress comfort to it that’s part that’s it to comfort hard-mattress sort of throaty but cushion-y voice, which has a which has voice, cushion-y but throaty remain consistent at all her shows: her her all shows: her at consistent remain raves, “Two things things Minneapolis “Two raves, Star-Tribune working blues woman in Minnesota,” the in Minnesota,” woman blues working in the process. Vagabonds and earning much critical praise critical praise much earning and Vagabonds touring extensively with her ensemble of of ensemble her with extensively touring exciting and accomplished blues artists, artists, blues accomplished and exciting Minnesota’s – and the country’s – most – most the country’s – and Minnesota’s so-slowly and surely emerged as one of of one as emerged surely and so-slowly relocating north in 2005, Sowers has not- has north in 2005, Sowers relocating West, Florida. Yet since since Yet Florida. West, street musician in Key Key in musician street was performing as a as performing was the singer/songwriter the singer/songwriter inconspicuously, when inconspicuously, tells it, began rather began rather it, tells career in music, as she she as in music, career Minnesota, Sowers’ Sowers’ Minnesota, now residing in St. Paul, Paul, in St. residing now contrary. plenty of evidence the to of plenty the past eight years, there’s there’s years, eight the past and popular acclaim over over acclaim popular and Sowers’ rise to professional rise professional to Sowers’ domination?” considering But kidding. mean, aside from world world from aside mean, years down the road. down years “You question: own future are, say, five or 10 or five say, are, future – what her plans for the for plans her – what Davina & the Vagabonds & the Vagabonds Davina for her five-person outfit outfit five-person her for pianist, and bandleader and pianist, Sowers – the lead vocalist, Sowers T 2013 Mississippi Valley Blues Festival • July 4 - 6 • LeClaire Park, Davenport, Iowa • 6 MVBS.org | see alot ofsee buskers inMinnesota. a ‘weather permitting’ kindof Idon’t thing. area, you knowtourist what Imean? And it’s course, areas. incertain Not area is a every did alot of busking. It’s of kindof difficult, band. Awhole different can of worms.” businessfeel than afull-time running as a and it was alot of –acompletely fun different Sowers continues. “I played of music, alot decent money astreet being musician,” many wonderful musicians that come from “An amazing musician community –just so entertainment community,” says Sowers. musically little speaking, did. else have proved lacking for her, she states that, But Minnesota the busking while may scene remainsalthough with Carvale band.) the introduction. (The pair has since divorced, to St. Paul two weeks after 2005 their Vagabondsthe –with whom she moved bass player –and eventual member of future husband an Michael upright Carvale, The Roadto World Domination, Via Minnesota “The Twin“The Cities has ahuge, amazing Key West where was also Sowers met “But Key West was where Imade pretty 2013 M ississippi V alley B lues way. “I can’t get over how lucky Iam to have Sowers, eventually meshed, and inabig what we’re doing.’” fortime like, to be us‘Oh, all okay, is this tastes are over all map. the it took So some [Tackmann] is into Foo Fighters, but his avant-garde And jazz. our Alec drummer trombonethe player, is into really weird, He’sFlag. kindof apunk rocker. [Link], Ben really into, like, Paul Westerberg and Anti- “Dan player, trumpet the [Eikmeier], is musical page, at least initially. thaneasier getting on all same them the finding musicians the proved somewhat Vagabonds. She admits, however, that for blues the ensemble Davina &the recruited of up-and-comers atrio gifted abandleader,being and she and Carvale Sowers to instead decided astab take at work as awaitress at Applebee’s anymore,” some. that area.” artist the went So about finding F But quintet’s the disparate stylings, says “It took alittle bit of time,” says Sowers. Saying, with alaugh, “I didn’t want to estiv al Continued From Page 5 .” e b I can really not and such ageek, and that’s only the that time than not. It’s so communicate that joy. joyous,can be and it’s able to cool be to make you happy. alot Ithink of blues songs blues,the and hearing it, definitely does says Sowers with alaugh, “but performing ofa league her own.” Minnesota’s City Pages considers Sowers “in understand worldwide their appeal, and why Michael Versus Devil” the –it’s to easy as “Finally Home” and rip-roaring the “St. in up-tempo, Sowers-penned songs such energetic on takes blues the –particularly pretty crazy, actually.” knowthey some of my originals, too. That’s that Ido, and it’s when to cool see really know them tocool see some of covers the Europeans really love Americana music. It’s we’ve many so been different places, and festival set-up it says, ‘Welcome to Hell.’ But continues, “and at train the station by the Hell.”called Seriously. goingactually to Norway, back to place this Amsterdam, and UKand the Norway. We’re We’ve to Switzerland been and and Belgium, Tim BurtonJust film. and really odd cool. wewhen were there, it so was like abig was pretty neat –there was like alight snow near hills, Transylvania,Sighişoara and that “Romania was cool. We were inthe .” d l or w keeps us busy and has us touring around the picked up an agency, and now agency the ayeargigs for, like, four years, and we then myselfI was booking and band the 300-plus and Ireally just conquered cities. the Imean, mybecame goal. Ijust hustled and got gigs, appropriately.them Preferably that So both. by either keeping busy them or paying thatlearned you’re gonna your keep guys abandleader,”being says Sowers, “I slowly Minneapolis venue Whiskey Junction. “But began with weekly engagements at the you know?” once inawhile, to every fun hidebehind well, and we’re when on stage, they’re pretty rounded bunch of great guys. We click really phenomenal, lovely players, and just awell- such wonderful musicians. They’re four “You know, it’s for easier me on to be stage “I’ve written some pretty sad-ass songs,” But listening to Davina Vagabonds’ &the “It’s Hell, aplace called Norway,” she Of her band’s recent travels, says Sowers, The band’s professional bookings much easier. I’m awkward, so by Mike Schulz 7 | 2013 Mississippi Valley Blues Festival • July 4 - 6 • LeClaire Park, Davenport, Iowa • MVBS.org al four four v esti by Jeff Ignatius by is surprising surprising is F McClain has been has McClain lues alcohol-free for nearly nearly for alcohol-free decades, said, two he drinking up gave he and charged getting after drunkwith “I driving. face her in the pain saw court to went when she Too Much Much Too 2012 album Enough (Not Jesus Whiskey) (with bothmusically gentle and strings its with lyrically, funk) and a inverting McClain trope blues standard booze and about hear can You religion. (“You’re loss a sense of friendsrunning all your also a but away”), the that recognition sacrifice sobriety for it And necessary. was a deeply closes with acts a as that laugh felt coda. song The joyous Song for nominated was the 2013 at the Year of Awards, Music Blues garnered the record and in the him nominations and album soul-blues categories. artist B alley V Too Much Jesus Much Too on sat he said He for ready album acoustic an has He certain sing, that always he’ll said he But he somebody will listen,” up, step you “If with me for that DUI,” he said of his current current his of said he DUI,” that for me with happen to that want knew I didn’t “I wife. know you ‘Honey, her, I told And ever again. this with shit.’” through I’m what? in part it, releasing before years five or business: in the music changes because of on direction other a whole went “Everything butt.” my record band another and said, he release, been have wife his and He finished. almost 17 for things of end the business handling to looking they’re and said, McClain years, somebody to those responsibilities delegate 70 “I’m said. he old,” gotten just “It’s else. hear to even want I don’t Sometimes now. ring.” the telephone also because he but audience, find an he’ll stop. can’t I die.” sing, “if And I don’t said. ississippi 2013 M 2013 Yet he almost passed it up. passed almost he it Yet and people of a lot “They through went His continued. he it,” I play and play “I said, “I the question: at offense took He “Mahsa’s said, he later, weeks a few But can songs and voice own McClain’s might be more proud of this music than I am I am than this music of proud be more might it what “because of said, he music,” own my represents.” Mahsa and he and me, finally across came made it and doing, I was what to listened But so much. voice liked my she cry, Mahsa doing, was she that something me they sent minds. their damn lost they’d I thought and so sound this? It sing to me want ... You me. to foreign hear don’t you him: “Honey, asked wife that?” singing yourself And that. singing myself hear I do not ‘No, the way.’” by do you, neither my grabbed by me and out reached just voice it.” I heard ... And throat. his effect. a similar of track title The have a privilege, because a privilege, nyway, that’s just some some just that’s nyway, the soul- the stuff,” of Sam Mighty singer blues

But then he got a letter offering him an him an offering a letter got then he But From the mid-’60s to 1971, he cut a cut 1971, he the mid-’60s to From A few years later, the proprietor of of the proprietor later, years A few Instead, he said, “I crawled out the out crawled “I said, he Instead, Little with up then hooked He Admittedly, the man has a lot to to a lot has the man Admittedly, at in Louisiana left home his He He’d been talking, nonstop, for 31 for been talking, nonstop, He’d

Mighty Sam McClain: Friday, July 5, 11 p.m., Bandshell July 5, 11 p.m., Mighty SamFriday, McClain: “If I Don’t Sing, I Die” Sing, “IfI Don’t language collaboration bridging cultures. “I “I cultures. bridging collaboration language Iranian singer Mahsa Vahdat – a multi- Vahdat Mahsa singer Iranian two CDs with producer Erik Hillestad and Erik and Hillestad producer with CDs two credit. In the past three years, he’s recorded recorded he’s years, three the past In credit. since, with more than dozen albums to his his to albums dozen than more with since, and McClain’s career has been has solid ever career McClain’s and opportunity to tour and record in Japan, in Japan, record and tour to opportunity McClain said. “It was “It said. McClain survival.” about this is pride; your great privilege and pleasure of finding out,” out,” finding of pleasure and privilege great about survival. Not about is ... This about. out of a garbage can, man? ... I had the I had ... man? can, a garbage of out being is being a human what me showed it 1970s and ’80s. “How the hell can you eat eat you can the hell ’80s. “How 1970s and including periods of homelessness in the periods homelessness of including Theatre before falling on hard times, hard falling on before Theatre handful of singles and made it to the Apollo the Apollo to it made and singles of handful giving up a steady income.” a steady up giving it wasn’t easy coming to that, because I was that, to easy coming wasn’t it chances,” McClain said of his decision. “But “But decision. his of said McClain chances,” outside his house all night. “I took my my took “I all house night. his outside from leaving to record by sitting sitting by record to leaving from the house band tried him band keep the to house the club in Florida where he fronted fronted he where in Florida the club 1950s – as a singer. a singer. 1950s – as roadie and by age 15 – in the late 15 – in the late age by and roadie it .” look back.” I didn’t and window, a as initially Underwood, Melvin the house. ... I thought about doing doing about thought ... I the house. hunter. And there were guns all over all guns over were there And hunter. to kill him. I really was. He was a was killto He was. I really him. a walking stick. So I was getting ready ready a walking So stick. getting I was hammer. Once. Then he hit me with with me hit he Then Once. hammer. said. “He hit me in the a head me with hit “He said. “He hit me a couple times,” McClain McClain times,” a couple me hit “He talk about. stepfather. abusive escape an 13 to age prompt him. prompt minutes, with just a few questions to to questions a few just with minutes, paid me, he chattered for another 39 another for chattered he me, paid been up to?” After the compliment he he been to?” the compliment After up of opening questions: “What have you you have “What questions: opening of minutes, responding to the simplest the simplest to responding minutes, interview. “You’re a good listener.” “You’re interview. McClain said to me in a recent phone phone in a recent me to said McClain “A 2013 Mississippi Valley Blues Festival • July 4 - 6 • LeClaire Park, Davenport, Iowa • 8 MVBS.org | John Primer: Friday, July5,10p.m., Tent In In That Line Same Primer playing Willie Dixon songs, although Lounge. he beganaregular at gig fabled the Theresa’s hospital in1974–his last day job, he said – never hurt him.When he was laid off from a ignorance of of its specifics the history music the learned well, although acertain that blues the were alive and well –and he was alive.” guys was those dead.Ididn’tall know they wasn’t“That on my mind, ’cause Ithought Lightin’ Hopkins –came from abygone era. King, Muddy Waters, John Hooker, Lee he added, he thought his blues idols –B.B. professionally Icould be think playing.” Plus, something he considered at time. the as COD the version he never laid hands on. – for about same the price bought one at apawn shop Chicago in1963,he finally and he when moved to instrument from acousin, my heart.” sentthey it back. That broke back to intime get it, so working ....She didn’t come mom, she was out of town, didn’t have no money. My cash on delivery, and “I it.” It was at office, post the or so, but “I never didget said, he ordered one for $7 or something.” go“when to they field the side-of-the-home guitar, he said, he was playing the at guitars incatalogs. He’d lieon floor, the looking phone interview. “I loved it.” sound,” he said inarecent latethe 1940s.“I the liked two or three years old, in wire Primer when was Mississippi with nails and sideofthe house the in have his own. J 2013 M It was there that Willie Dixon heard Living in Chicago, though, he discovered “I came here to get ajob,” he said. “I didn’t But amusic career, he said, was not But hethe learned At about that time, he By he time the was five, An uncle made one on took a while fortook awhile himto loving guitar, the but it ohn Primer grewup ississippi V alley B lues noted, “it wasn’t no different way inthe they said. “I went more places.” than Iwas ineither one of bands,” those he artists. “I was Magic inthe Slim band longer his as three sideman gigs blues to legendary remainssaid that period favorite the among band for more than and adecade, Primer was that said, ‘Yeah, okay, man.’ ...Ididn’t know he but “I didn’t know it was abig scene. Ijust band from 1980until his death in1983. Watersrecalls saying.) He was inWaters’ (“Young man know my music,” Primer City, where Muddy Waters first heard him. guitar inhis band –including inMexico know he wrote songs.” those all Primer wasn’t aware of origins: their “I didn’t F But three of mentors, with all those he And after that he played inMagic Slim’s He Muddy said he knew Waters was big, In 1979, Dixon recruited Primer to play estiv famous. Lot al of people.” claim to. world Primer is truly class ....” nuance that only ahandful of artists can lay of understanding of genre’s the subtleties and songwriter, and guitarist “possesses adepth Original CD All album later year. this Primer said he’ll recording start another new Knockin’ Around These Blues inApril, and harmonica player Corritore Bob released performance. Achievement Award prior to his Friday tent Valley Blue Society’s RiverRoad Lifetime awarded be Primer will Mississippi the professional musician, 68-year-old the something that Ilove to do–that’s blues.” I’m solid. I’m just producing music that’s There’s no change inmy direction, because different,” he said. “I hadn’t didacoustic. ... ChicagoBluesGuide.com praised his 2008 But he’s not slowing down. He and With four under his belt decades as a together and dosomething recording for me, just putting “Actually, it’s just another blues. on electric the focused eyes, eventhough he’s always wasn’t adeparture inhis Ground Solid on Blues year, mostly acoustic CDfrom last time.”the yourself.’ ...Istick to that all to me.to be be Always try what Iplay, but don’t try offered akey lesson. “‘Learn playing.” you know it’s John Primer can hear me anywhere; don’t change my style. You I’m inthat same line. ...I or style the sound. ...Ithink but lyrics, the never changed ofstyle music. He changed Waters never changed his Slim was that way. Muddy just play it like he did. Magic don’t to change try blues; the me how and original to be Dixon, but Slim helped show Muddy Waters and Willie “I road the learned from with him. carries Primer still stressed one thing that forrespect musicians.” their treat you. had alot They of by saying that singer, the For that reason, Primer’s his teachers,All he said, collaboratorsThose also by JeffIgnatius ,

9 | 2013 Mississippi Valley Blues Festival • July 4 - 6 • LeClaire Park, Davenport, Iowa • MVBS.org

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PRESENTS AdlerTheatre.com | AdlerTheatre.com BROADWAY 10 2013 Mississippi Valley Blues Festival • July 4 - 6 • LeClaire Park, Davenport, Iowa • MVBS.org | I as aresult, and just Iliked about everything. had ahuge of library music available to me bands that came through and I stuff ....So concerts, going to radiostation, the meeting whole life, surrounded by music, going to “He jockey. was adisc Igrewup, So my memories, was always air. inthe Shepherd says that music, from his earliest conceivably want it’s hard to imagine that anyone could I don’t any see reason to change it.” And doing has always worked for me, and so phone interview. “You know, what I’m presence inhis field? music despite such being aformidable regrets about not still able being to read andgood, Ijust then have to remember it.” iPhone, but –Ijust yeah play what sounds now, Ican because just record things on my years. Modern is abig technology help but you know, it’s gotten over easier the kind of atedious process beginning, inthe to endbeginning the of it. It was note at until atime Igot from the to have to sound songs out one at tender the age of “I seven. used his career as aself-taught guitarist Shepherd, began unofficially who doesn’t read music, either. out that Kenny Wayne Shepherd following your dream. It turns don’t letthat dissuade you from music,inability to read actually outbe of reach due to your of professional music forever will guitarist feels who that world the ClaptonEric ranking higher. magazine, with only B.B. King and est blues guitarist by World Guitar once named world’s the - third-fin Music Awards,Billboard and was two Blues Music Awards and two five Grammy Awards, has won alreadyhas nominated been for 37-year-old musician, after all, than Kenny Wayne Shepherd. The talents lesser tochoose emulate blues rock, you could certainly Kenny Wayne Shepherd: Saturday, July6,11p.m., Bandshell Playing by It Ear “My was dad on radio,” the he says. As a native of Shreveport, Louisiana, “No, Idon’t,” he says during our recent Meanwhile, Shepherd does have any “Yeah, play Istill by ear,” says If, however, you’re an amateur 2013 M larly one with an for affinity hoping to turn pro,- particu f you’re an amateur guitarist ississippi himto. V alley B lues the stage,the and really just mesmerized. being getting to watch his show from sideof the guitarist, “but Iremember meeting himand to me,” says Shepherd of legendary the Shepherd’s professional career. father’s connections, would go on to shape was seven,” an event that, thanks to his at aStevie RayVaughan concert I when Andthose. Igot my guitar first electric and my learned Iactually first notes on little plastic guitars with nylon strings – guitars’ Iwas when alittle –these kid was four or five years old. ‘play I had these guitar, Shepherd, recalls began“when I .” e m genre. It was always just really appealing to into blues music that Ididn’t inevery find amounta certain of raw emotion that goes Iwaswhich really into, and there’s because alot“because of iton guitar, focuses the fascinationa particular with blues the early years, grade-school he always had Everything.” music,Country rock, punk, gospel .... F “I don’t really remember what he said His own exploration personal of the But Shepherd says that evenduring his estiv al when Iwaswhen 15and doing started local kind of happened rather staggering success as ayouth. “It just R-rated movies by himself. before he wasallowed legally to vote or see record –one deal that guitarist the signed Shepherd and his band to amultiple-album Records’ Azoff, promptly who Irving signed eventually caught attention the of Giant Festival. from And avideo that festival at Shreveport’s River Red Revel Arts guitar eventually skills, to led abooking and buzz the generated by 13-year-old’s the that kind of my set career inmotion.” whole show with himand had ablast, and night,” he continues. “I played almost the whatever. with crowd, the or ifI’d or nervous too be and Ididn’t know how well Iwould go over really my firstinfront time of an audience, pretty moment cool for me, it because was Tonight Show with Jay Leno. was “That a Shepherd would later play on a2007set The “I don’t know,” says Shepherd of his Shepherd’s impromptu performance, “But Igot my first standing ovations that join himon-stage, and with whom bluesman invited who teen to the Shepherd, referencing noted the Lee,”with guy this Bryan says Street,Bourbon and Igot to play I was down inNew Orleans on eventually made his concert debut. was clearly evident Shepherd when .” e m on of blues guys were big influences era and stuff like that. Imean, alot acoustic blues through electric the days of blues the and Delta the and went way the all back to early the mean, Ididmy homework, man. I Hopkins and Buddy Guy ....I John Hooker Lee and Lightnin’ B.B. King and Muddy Waters and mine,” says Shepherd, “but Iliked Vaughan was always abig hero of record “Stevie collection. Ray from masters the his father’s via himself guitar inearnest, learning kind of fire and passion.” tolearn play guitar with that same forward, Iwanted all to dowas moment for me. From that point And that was just alife-changing “I Iwas 13years think old, and And extent the of influence their He subsequently beganto teach . Iput aband together | 2013 Mississippi Valley Blues Festival • July 4 - 6 • LeClaire Park, Davenport, Iowa • MVBS.org 11 al v esti by Mike Schulz Mike by F lues B alley V of those people, so it was really cool, cool, really was so those it people, of “We just wanted to go out and do and out go to wanted just “We he a lot them,” of were there “And the with highlight came career Another Beck Steven Jeff and and Clapton “Eric witness will doubt no audiences as And 20 years,” the past over learned a lot “I’ve accomplishment he takes particular he pride accomplishment in. our show to project a special blues and community, the blues to appreciation 10 of Shepherd says itself,” the genre to been very have good fans . “Blues Out Days been has the music obviously and me, to was so And it me. for inspiration a big some with play to me for opportunity an also try and expose to musicians, amazing talented really some to the world of the rest a reason, whatever for were, that musicians talented. extremely but lesser-known, bit Howlin’ from the guys “All continues. the Smith, Eyes’ ‘Big Willie band. Wolf’s Jerry band. waters’ Muddy drummer from Neal and Cootie Stark McCain. ‘Boogie’ met Baker never ... . I had Etta and Pattman any the film the album make to and get to and great.” was Shepherd Wayne the Kenny of 2008 release a collector’s Series Stratocaster, Signature the by commissioned instrument edition designed and Instruments Musical Fender himself. Shepherd by ... . I mean, Guy Buddy and Ray Vaughan get that guitarists amazing of a list there’s Shepherd. says guitars,” do signature to do to be to asked honor a huge it’s “So a and a year about for worked We that. the on working thehalf guitar, designing sound them to get to the pick-ups of sound the neck of the shape and a certain way, that. like stuff and profile, the right get to something changes player Every guitar for suitable more it make to the guitar about they things do on the little and themselves it.” of proud really I’m and it, Blues Valley theMississippi set his at during proud also is extremely Shepherd Festival, him, more allowed has that the career of professional his decades two after than he the music playing continue to debut, loving. grew up try to continue if you “and Shepherd, says then your game, your of top on stay and is Performing stronger. getting keeps ability when was fun it as still much as definitely more fun, Probably in many younger. I was ways.” ississippi 2013 M 2013 ’s blues charts charts blues ’s That album also led to fellow chart- also fellow album led to That As any blues fan will tell you, it most most it will you, fan tell blues any As “My parents insisted that I graduate I graduate that insisted parents “My Its success also meant that, at age 17, there 17, there age at that, also success meant Its “But it was great,” he continues. “The first continues. he great,” was it “But Shepherd says that the public reaction to to reaction the public that says Shepherd for Best DVD, and Shepherd says it’s an an it’s says Shepherd and Best DVD, for the package won a 2008 Blues Music Award Award Music a 2008 Blues won the package musicians from Muddy Waters’ ensemble; ensemble; Waters’ Muddy from musicians “Honeyboy” Edwards to the less heralded the less to Edwards “Honeyboy” from blues legends B.B. King and David David and King B.B. legends blues from unsung heroes of the blues world – everyone world the blues of heroes unsung and jamming with both venerated and and both with venerated jamming and 2007 release found Shepherd interviewing Shepherd found 2007 release . That . That Backroads the from Blues Out: Days Grammy-nominated CD/DVD set titled 10 CD/DVD Grammy-nominated , plus a I Go, plus How 2011’s and in, You’re 2004’s The Place 2004’s on, Live in 1999’s toppers Shepherd’s signature song, “Blue on Black.” on “Blue song, signature Shepherd’s single in what is widely considered considered widely is in what single position – and spawned a chart-topping a chart-topping spawned – and position – spending 20 weeks at the number-one the number-one at 20 weeks – spending running album on Billboard on running album , which holds the record for the longest- for the record ... , which holds Trouble Is Is Trouble 1997’s with Heights of Ledbetter certainly did. Shepherd followed the release the release followed Shepherd certainly did. business. But you know, it worked out.” worked it know, you But business. against people being successful in the music being successful in the people music against music business, and the odds are generally generally the odds are and business, music know, it’s kind of tough to make it in the in it make to tough kind of it’s know, some concern from my parents at first. You You first. at parents my from concern some school, I hit the road. I think there was I think was there the road. I hit school, And then the minute that I got out of high of out I got that then the minute And high school,” says Shepherd. “So I did that. I did that. “So Shepherd. says high school,” full-time music career. full-time music was no turning back from the pursuit of a of the pursuit from back turning no was it was certainly was a success.” it gold, and then eventually went platinum, so platinum, went then eventually and gold, five on the rock charts, and the album went went the album and charts, the rock on five great time doing it. time doing great number to up shot Voodoo’] [‘Déjà single songs that I had written, and I was having a having I was and written, I had that songs getting to make a record, and I was doing doing I was and a record, make to getting gonna think about it. I just knew that I was I was knew that I just it. think about gonna but you never know what other people are are people other what know never you but obviously thought it was a good record, a good was record, it thought obviously didn’t know what to expect. to I what I mean, know didn’t came as a considerable surprise. “I really really “I surprise. a considerable as came here ever since.” ever here , Heights Ledbetter 1995’s album, first that when I was 17.” He laughs. “And I’ve been I’ve “And laughs. He when 17.” I was deal when I was 16, and I did my first record record first my I did deal and when 16, I was were interested. So I got signed to a record a record signed So to I got interested. were strange thing for that day and time. People People time. and day that for thing strange prodigy guitar player, which was kind of a kind of which was player, prodigy guitar around the country about this young, blues- this young, the country about around shows, and I guess word just kind of got got kind of just word guess I and shows, 12 2013 Mississippi Valley Blues Festival • July 4 - 6 • LeClaire Park, Davenport, Iowa • MVBS.org | A C.J. Chenier&theRedHot Louisiana Saturday, Band: July6,10p.m., Tent The La KingofLa third –and grade Iguess I’ve so trying been second grade, was schoolchoir inthe in –tooksecond piano grade lessons inthe with music and instruments since, like, the had bug the inme. I’d playing been around far as music was concerned, “I guess Ialways father, Texas, inrural says Chenier that as traveling with him!” “But Ifound out quickly Istarted when know what it was really about.” He laughs. but Ionly had one of his albums, Ididn’t so myI knew daddy was ‘the king of zydeco,’ about it, andwas with people knew the who and music la la just wasn’t popular. Imean, it music. it music’ la ‘la called They back then, where Icame from, zydeco wasn’t apopular during our recent phone interview, “because that genre was of his career, he didn’t understand fully what man readily admits that, early inthe stages undeniable master of his genre –though the singer/songwriter/accordionistthe is an crown prince of zydeco” Globe by Boston the throne” magazine and “the by Billboard worldwide. “the Called heir to zydeco the continue zydeco and toblues thrill fans Louisiana Band, C.J. performances Chenier after over taking his late father’s Hot Red of people happy,a lot 25years because mean, Iwas hesitant, but Iwas happy.” adds,Chenier “And Ijust said, ‘Yes, ma’am your bagsand get on out of here!’” Laughing, don’t have nothin’ to do. You’d better pack ‘I tell you what: You’re not working. You was. in my daddy’s band was way older than I manytoo places, and that Iknew everybody I was hesitant, to Ihad because never been wanted me to go on road the with him.And home, my because and said daddy he called of my to to tell friends come me Ineeded Catholic Church. And my mother sent one and one day we were playing abazaar at a band Iput funk in this up inmy hometown, Port Arthur, Texas, “and Iwas playing piano professional music. And his mom. he does: thank for into his entry initial world the of that C.J. would Chenier have aparent to King ofas “The Zydeco” –it makes sense 2013 M Raised by hisRaised mother, and apart from his “It’s weird,” says 55-year-old the Chenier Mom’s directive, as it turns out, has made “But Igot home and my mother told me, “I was, like, 20 years old,” says native the of accordion legend commonly known Grammynier –the Award-winning s he’s son the of late the Clifton- Che ississippi . V alley B lues !’ I , job. And I really didn’t want to dothat. refinery, that because was best-paying the just wanted to graduate and get ajobat the lived who musical. there, For they everybody Port Arthur, Texas, and that place just wasn’t in music “was only adream. Icome from Band, says Chenier that pursuing acareer to tour with his father’s Hot Red Louisiana man!” know, 30bucks in1975was alot of money, like, ‘Whoa next we time played, he gave 30,and Iwas was happiest the personAnd on the earth. I was 17,and Itook that bucks, seven and I my guy the gave first gig, bucks. me seven could, on occasion, evenget paid for it. “At to discover pleased was particularly that he and sax the piano the inhis youth, and I was meant to play that thing.” Ithink through schooland high everything. man.good, That was my main instrument all with alaugh, “and Iadapted to it pretty it just thing ...! had aslide, but this saying? The trombone looked simple because has alot of keys on it!’ You know what I’m television, and Iwas like, ‘Man, that sure was. And Isaw then one played being on But Ididn’t evenknow what asaxophone in his band, You to need play saxophone.’ told me, ‘No, your daddy’s got asaxophone wanted to play trombone. the But my mother amusicianto be my all life, pretty much.” F “So Iwas fortunate to have afather in the But until receiving his 1978invitation saysChenier he enjoyed playing both “So Igot on saxophone,” the says Chenier In fourth grade, says Chenier, “I actually estiv al ! Thirty bucks? right ! Thirty All !’ You

In 1992,he played accordion on atrack hardly impededChenier’s career trajectory. stuck out like that.” great for me, Ijust couldn’t leave my guys same time, and even though it would’ve been with my own band happening at exact the “And that broke my man. heart, Ihad atour didn’t get to go on tour with him,” he says. playing backup on Rhythm of the Saints, “I right York ....’ And Iwas like, ‘Well, yeah ‘Hey, Paul Simon wants you to come to New Just of all and asudden guy this calls says, me. Andhe that called was something, man. abigI think, fan of my dad’s, and that’s why Graceland Was“That Your Mother” from 1986’s Grammy-winning Rhythm of the Saints. for album the that would become 1990’s Simon, was who looking for instrumentalists accordion caught skills attention the of Paul Louisiana Band that Chenier’s newfound through his performances Hot with Red the frontman for Clifton’s ensemble. And it was already playing with,” he took so over as butelse continue with guys the Iwas never evendawned on me to doanything what Imean?” to figure it out. And Iguess Idid, you know “I just playing started around with it trying and accordionist” magazine. Blues by Living “the called livingbeen best zydeco singer on accordion,” the says man the has who 1980s. “I was around 27or Istarted 28when mid- seriously inthe in 1987–became ill succumb to diabetes-related disease kidney accordionthe Clifton when would –who ifyousee can make people happy.” It’s just great to get on stage and performand travel the all to seems just disappear, man. once you get up there and get on that stage, “Traveling is tiresome,” says Chenier, “but alongside his father and bandmates. it.”of and out ahalf of school. And high Ihated all hydroblasting. of stuff inmy Ididalot year of Iworked meal. fish on arailroad. Idid –tossing meal fish around 100-pound sacks refineries. Iworked as alongshoreman. Idid me from that. Iworked Because at the business,” he continues, he rescued “because His inability to tour with Simon, though, But eventhough didend Chenier up As he name-checked Clifton inhis song After his father’s passing, says Chenier, “It loved also Chenier learning to master He loved, however, playing sax the !’” , Chenier says,, Chenier “Paul Simon was, ! All ! All | 2013 Mississippi Valley Blues Festival • July 4 - 6 • LeClaire Park, Davenport, Iowa • MVBS.org 13 al v esti F lues B alley V They Dinner? To Coming Who’s and Guess The members of Howard & the White Boys & the White Howard of members The two made Between 1997, the group 1994 and Howard members band 2004, longtime In in Made City, in the Windy Recorded HowardAndTheWhiteBoys.net – from Howard & the White Boys, 5 p.m. Boys, White & the Howard HowardAndTheWhiteBoys.net first met at Northern Illinois University in University Illinois Northern at met first together began jamming in 1988 and DeKalb popularity their fast-growing fun, but for just a career them they make could soon convinced their they got months, a few only After it. of The King. B.B. for opening by break big first and Chicago to soon the move made band in names the biggest with began performing Wells, Albert Junior King, Taylor, Koko blues: Allison, Bo Diddley, Luther Brooks, Lonnie Berry. Chuck and the on Out Strung recordings, highly acclaimed Blues the United across extensively began traveling captured popularity their growing and States, Evidence Philadelphia-based of the attention three the of first was $core Big The Records. the and Evidence, successful discs by released via the it time in promoting no wasted band Europe. to trips many of first Jim Rocco and Calipari, McCullum, 26-year-old by joined were Christopulos blues tight Galanis’ Galanis. Pete guitarist versatility natural his with – coupled chops styles rock and the funk, R&B, handling at Boys’ & the White Howard become have that right slotted magnificently – have trademarks have and sound signature the group’s in with exuberance, youthful exciting, an it also lent CD, recent their most on apparent readily . Chicago in Made also apropos it’s But titled. aptly is Chicago steeped in blues a city because Chicago, chops its honed has the band where is history, Boys have & the White 1988. Howard since the city’s of one as a reputation established at appearances regular and attractions, favorite them an afforded have Legends Guy’s Buddy Indeed, a wider audience. reach to opportunity been has their unofficial mentor. Guy Buddy ississippi 2013 M 2013 When I heard I heard When funk grooves.” funk grooves.” description That his to applies high- band’s energy live too. shows, the Selwyn Band Birchwood theBlues at Foundation’s International Challenge Blues it in February, to obvious was CD Baby says it best about Selwyn best about it says CD Baby the upon stumbled Selwyn Birchwood Rhodes offered Sonny bluesman Texas Besides slide a mean Selwyn (who plays – Karen McFarland : “Eclectic original CD FL Boy Birchwood’s music roots swampy from ranging tunes hip-shakin’ to blues front-porch upbeat to in the finals. the best was band it that me with disagreed I’ve years, few the past For the winning by beenand disappointed the IBC in at chosen finals, but bands Selwyn The right. it got 2013 the judges number chosen was Band Birchwood in the 200 bands than more of out one won Selwyn and Birchwood competition, best guitarist. for the Albert award King a Buddy 17 while attending age at blues witnessing After in Orlando. concert Guy the power energy and the raw firsthand what was decided he it created, music the spent has He pursue. to wanted he then trying skill since his to years hone to of feeling and intensity the same convey greats. the blues to Selwyn the chance the 19-year-old Selwyn nationally. tour and the road hit the opportunity of advantage took quickly blues his with toured frequently has and the Canada. In and the U.S. across mentor to Selwyn also has managed meantime, and in marketing degree a bachelor’s get MBA. an of composed is the band guitar), lap on drums (who traveled on Nutall Curtis including bands many with internationally did a and Alabama, Boys of Blind The bass Walker), Louis Joe with stint five-year on Regi Oliver and Wright, Huff player baritone saxophone. Selwyn Birchwood Band, 3 p.m. Band, Selwyn Birchwood SelwynBirchwood.com Thursday, July 4: Bandshell July Thursday,

!” by Mike Schulz Mike by ,” says Chenier. Chenier. says ,” , the C.J. Chenier & the , the C.J. Recently, Chenier’s and his band’s band’s his and Chenier’s Recently, for happening always And what’s never don’t generation younger “Our first this here was “But “I keep waiting for that time to come come time to that for waiting keep “I happenings have included the release of of the release included have happenings and concert Down CD, Sit Can’t 2011’s the throughout engagements festival several and international States, United did the Netherlands,” just “We tours. and did France we “and the artist, says We ago. weeks a couple Belgium just and every year, Europe to go much pretty for France for ready stuff some got we’ve already.” March next keep to theChenier opportunity is younger, and more, introducing output. his to audiences in radio exposed music get roots to he that,” like stuff the media and and they get “Theysays. exposed get rap, to they that idolize and exposed hip-hop, to even take a real don’t that – things stuff I music. play to whoperson learned how music played never that’s a person mean, instruments download and go can before this picking by song a whole create and this drum line, picking and pattern, bass cowbell in a few sounds, throwing and becomes it and the media takes it, and I what know you seller, a million-dollar mean? “Roots and the blues – that’s America’s America’s – that’s the blues and “Roots need youngsters we why that’s And music. this [the like events to out come to Even Festival]. Blues Valley Mississippi them, to be familiar not might it though then, they least exposed And get it. at to And again. back come to want they might their friends time.” next of some bring was named 1995’s best zydeco album best album zydeco 1995’s named was in Living Blues in 1996, And magazine. The CNN and on performances following StewartJon Show the set Band during Louisiana Red Hot was Festival & Heritage Jazz Orleans New VH1. on segment own in its featured with Chenier, says man!” again, around surge. mid-’90s career his of a laugh, them! new tricks for got I’ve “Because to the opportunity me give just know, You now happening what’s people show New Miserable Miserable New Blossoms’ the Gin for himself also found Experience, and PBS’s on showcased bandmates his and . Limits City series Austin music lauded Fun Much Too release studio-debut His 14 2013 Mississippi Valley Blues Festival • July 4 - 6 • LeClaire Park, Davenport, Iowa • MVBS.org | member of Taylor Otis the Band. was back on1995, Eddie music the as a scene Motown covers inbands on weekends. the By music real estate to sell inDenver, playing hard so Eddie that he took 10years off from band Zephyr, singer’s whose death tragic hit and with hard-rock the psychedelic blues withthen Tracy Nelson &Mother Earth, Immortal Nightflames (apunk/R&B band), In ’70sinColorado, the he played with the Buddy Guy. His eclectic. is also experience Garcia,Jerry Muddy Waters, Magic Slim, and Gallagher, areinfluences. So Rory Jeff Beck, style. reminded of Hendrix’s straight-from-Mars stew ofhis music Afro-Cuban is afiery beats music as ayoung scene adult inColorado, Cuba, inChicago, raised and entering the guitar-playing lives up to his name. in Born TheChrisOLearyBand.com Band, 9p.m.Chris O’Leary EddieDevilBoy.com & the Trouble Twins, 7p.m. Boy”Turner Eddie “Devil Thursday, July4:Bandshell very few make cut. the This yearvery agreed we all for Mississippi the Valley Blues Festival, but we’ve never heard of want who considered to be committee gets scores of solicitations from acts Twins are just ticket the for an incredible set! strobe-light edge, Turner Eddie Trouble &the Music Awards. of Year the at 10th-annual the Independent Demons (2010)was nominated for Blues Song & Album. And title cut the of Miracles Independent Music Award for Blues Best 2006 release, The Turner Diaries, won the DebutArtist at Blues the Music Awards. His in 2005,and it was nominated for New Best Every yearEvery MVBSentertainment the released his firstalbum,Eddie solo Rise Hendrix is, of course, one of Eddie’s major Turner’s Boy” “Devil Eddie scorching Karen McFarland – Karen If you like your blues rocked hard with a 2013 M ississippi V alley live, I’m heard him I’vetime rock. Every psychedelic blues and including up, growing him influenced sounds that and the

B , lues pick! Thursday –and you’ll know we made agreat O’Leary’sChris harp workshop at 4 p.m. on round out rhythm the section. Andy on Stahl and sax Frank Ingrao on bass trained clarinetist plays who band. inthe sax Number 3–DiFrancesco –is aclassically and Mitch Woods Rocket &the 88s.Chris Jimmy McGriff, Katz, Bruce Tad Robinson, with many well-known musicians, such as ofCollege Music and has played guitar extending to rockabilly and swinging jazz.” powerstechnical and imagination, his reach guitarist Vitarello Chris merits notice for his materialall-original without faltering. Young His Hudson Valley-based cohorts stirup the singing, reminiscent of Jimmy Witherspoon. of ‘Blues Is aWoman’ that draws out his best his debut recording. It’s really slow the tempo numbers he handles with suave assurance on proofthe comes and shuffles inthe jump singer and Chicago-styleharmonica stylist; that album: “O’Leary is amore than capable win atwin Blues the Blast Music Awards. nomination, New and Debut aBest Artist CD international airplay, aBlues Music Award debut, Mr. Used to, received Be raves, critical Band’s O’Leary The Chris songwriting. 2010 of influencesto his singing, playing, and in New Orleans’ French bring Quarter awealth Barnburners and an extended musical residency Barnburners. International tours with the harp player, and frontman for Levon Helm’s York. For sixyears, was singer, O’Leary Chris musicians from Hudson the Valley area of New and most of its songs are originals! tight band playing old-fashioned good blues – one of our coveted slots at fest. the We heard a that Band should O’Leary given Chris the be F Karen McFarland – Karen check outSo band this –and don’t forget NumberChris 2attended Berklee the Downbeat Magazine hadto this say about ofAll band the members are veteran estiv al play with more fire than Iwas when 25.” rekindle past glories,” says Walter, “I feel like I of growing momentum. “Instead to of trying into year his 25th as star, asolo there’s asense Guitarists of Time. All As Walter Trout powers One’s Radio BBC countdown of Top the 20 accolades including anumber-six placing on albums,solo astill-growing army of fans, and vindicatedsuicide has been by acatalog of 22 of acenturylater, what like career seemed Bluesbreakers and go out on his own. Aquarter ... ?” you world. inthe Where doyou go from there stage, and letsyou sing. He creates aplace for song, bringsafter you every to front the of the you. You get to play He solos. yells your name gonna play chords night. all [Mayall] features with B.B. King or Buddy Guy, but you’re just Trout. “That’s Mount Everest. You could play guitar sideman, that is pinnacle,” the gig states Bluesbreakers band. “As far as ablues- being offering revered himthe guitar slot iconic inthe followed by athree-year stint with Heat. Canned Tex. He was inDavis’ band for two years, Big Mama Thornton, Lowell Fulson, and Joe sideman erathat saw also himwork alongside famous guy Iplayed with,” he remembers of the I met Jesse Davis, Ed was first really who the marked him.“I went and to aparty that’s where where his ferocious talent on guitar lead soon on aday trip to Philadelphia. inspired to buy his first Gibson Paul Les while 62-year-old the reflects guitarist, was who soon Mayall, and told me, ‘You gotta hear guy!’” this Clapton.with Eric “He brought home John debut to John Mayall’s Bluesbreakers seismic blues-rock platters, from Paul Butterfield’s 1965 of blasting family the home inNew Jersey with put on his path by an older brother with ahabit power of agreat record. In mid-’60s,he the was WalterTrout.com Walter Trout, 11p.m. – from WalterTrout.com But in1989,Trout to leave decided the Then he got aphone from call John Mayall, By 1973,Trout had made amove to L.A., Walter Trout knows about all life-shaping the | 2013 Mississippi Valley Blues Festival • July 4 - 6 • LeClaire Park, Davenport, Iowa • MVBS.org 15 al v esti F posted a review by posted review a by lues B is a much-needed return to to return a much-needed is alley V Here’s a description from NPR’s Marc Marc NPR’s from a description Here’s All Music Guide Music All The – Karen McFarland Davina & the Vagabonds, 8 p.m. Vagabonds, & the Davina DavinaAndTheVagabonds.com been had Cotabish Glenn MVBS member for & the Vagabonds Davina about raving them I finally live saw before years a few he and IBC an showcase, at in Memphis a have & the Vagabonds Davina right. was the “classic to back casts that sound unique in the artists ’20s and female era of blues” no there’s horn-driven, is band ’30s. The a powerhouse is Davina and lead guitar, entertainer. Davina of a good gives picture that Silver Sowers’ “Davina sound: & the Vagabonds’ shimmy fingers right trained classically an with meet up and keys the piano down boogie-woogie she Then bass. insistent salty, a sassy, talent: musical other her reveals picking and slide skills. (He shows distinctive distinctive shows skills. slide (He and picking a boogie here Reso-Lectric.)flair on There’s sounds nothing but there, a rocker and bare-boned, raw, is music Price’s derivative. has definitely native Iowa This rhythmic. and soul.” in his Mississippi of the music this way: up it summed that Prato Greg “Rain or Shine the from straight – played blues genuine the deal, real heart. is folks.” This ississippi is show on on show 2013 M 2013 had similar similar had had this to say about that that about say this had to . Burt will conduct a workshop (with (with a workshop Burt willconduct McFarland – Karen Vintage Guitar Vintage When I think of Joe & Vicki Price, “Iowa “Iowa Price, & Vicki Joe I think of When Revue in Blues Eric Thom Smithsonian Festival of American Folklife in Folklife American of Festival Smithsonian DC. Washington, and Thursday, on 2:30 p.m. Reed) at Hal Saturday and Friday in BluSKool participate 4:45 p.m. at sentiments about the CD: “Rain or about Shine sentiments combine 10 songs Its sixth album. Price’s boot-stomped – including sounds traditional modern- – with accompaniment rhythmic yet simple vocals are lyrics. Price’s day his as every impassioned powerful, as bit Crawl” comes to mind. They represent to to They represent mind. to comes Crawl” – blues Americana Iowa a certainme kind of few in the past But the Heartland. from been have Vicki and Joe especially, years Iowa just not everywhere;touring they’re regulars They are anymore. musicians blues They’ve in Chicago. Legends Guy’s Buddy at festivals blues acclaimed nationally played Bayfront and in Colorado Telluride as such on appeared They’ve Minnesota. in Duluth, Know? Whad’Ya Feldman’s Michael Canada to performed from they’ve NPR,and the Best Blues won 2010, Joe California. In or Rain for Award Music CD Independent Shine a blues as be known not may “Iowa album: Nest,’ ‘Hornet’s the opening from mecca, but the is Price Joe native Waterloo that clear it’s with Steel National his beats deal.real He Bukka with associated power the kind of Fred Mississippi or Williams, Joe Big White, as is in a style that sings and McDowell sounding be needs to without it as lowdown Dog Hound all ... Somewhere, affected. at smiling.” is Taylor Joe & Vicki Price, 6 p.m. Price, Vicki Joe & JoePriceBlues.com Kevin is a is Kevin of artists artists of including Bill Withers and Aaron with Neville, the ability an build to audience that rapport beenhas compared greats with B.B. as such King. self-taught musician . .

Kevin has shared the stage with many many with the stage shared has Kevin Kevin was recognized as one of the of one recognized as was Kevin For more than 20 years, Coralville’s Kevin Kevin Coralville’s 20 years, than more For

blues festivals, Kevin has performed at the performed at has Kevin festivals, blues Valley Blues Festival and other Midwest Midwest other and Festival Blues Valley Alabama. Besides playing at the Mississippi the Mississippi at BesidesAlabama. playing Neville Brothers, and the Blind Boys of Boys of the Blind and Brothers, Neville Terrance Simien, the Holmes Brothers, the Brothers, the Holmes Simien, Terrance Luther Allison, Robert Cray, Rod Piazza, Allison, Robert Cray, Luther Harmonica Brooks, Lonnie Wells, Junior Magnus, Just Play It: An Introduction to Blues Blues to Introduction An It: Play Just called Janiva Edwards, Honeyboy Guy, Buddy a classroom harmonica-method book harmonica-method a classroom King, Albert Collins, B.B. including greats, Council. He has written and published published and written has He Council. artist educator with the State of Iowa Arts Iowa of the State with educator artist Blues in the Schools. Kevin is a registered a registered is in the Schools. Kevin Blues has been an MVBS artist-in-residence for for been MVBS artist-in-residence has an Iowa Governor Chet Culver in 2009, and he he in 2009, and Chet Culver Governor Iowa Piano Lesson by educators blues-heritage top Midwest’s The The play Wilson August in the acclaimed of Iowa – for example, playing Whining Boy Whining playing example, – for Iowa of roles in several other plays at the University the University at in several plays other roles was sold out each night. Kevin has also has had Kevin each night. sold out was Experimental Theater in New York City and and City York in New Experimental Theater DC, also had a two-week run at LaMama’s DC, LaMama’s run also at a two-week had ran in Iowa City and then in Washington, then in Washington, and City in Iowa ran the blues music. The play, which originally play, The music. the blues Kevin played Papa Gee and arranged all of all of Gee arranged and Papa played Kevin consistently gets him compared to a range a range to compared him gets consistently , Legend Blues the Ka, Klub play off-Broadway soul-inspired presentation is unique, which unique, is presentation soul-inspired the experience. In stage-acting some had that true blues has no roots in Iowa. His His in Iowa. roots no has true blues that also who has guitar) and (vocals, harmonica, throughout the nation, dispelling the myth the myth dispelling the nation, throughout “B.F.” Burt has been Burt has electrifying audiences “B.F.” KevinBFBurt.com Kevin “B.F.” Burt, 4 p.m. “B.F.” Kevin Thursday, July 4: Tent 4: July Thursday, 16 2013 Mississippi Valley Blues Festival • July 4 - 6 • LeClaire Park, Davenport, Iowa • MVBS.org | Thursday, July4: Tent Prius, preferably with asunroof.” 1920 Model T–ifit had aradio–or a2011 atsound perfectly home booming out of a andvocals anthem, clever Aparty lyrics. it’d cheek of 21stthe Century Sowers’ teasing bluesCentury and but jazz, freshened up with Black Cloud tracks shethe wrote for her band’s album, new where she checks her makeup. many Like of home without and mirror the on her roadster tubethe of ruby red that Sowers never leaves performance, and sound. original working professionalism, stage high-energy busiest band intown of because hard- their known inThe Twin Cities as the being Davina Vagabonds Link. &the Ben are trumpeter Dan Eikmeier, and trombonist on stand-up Tackmann bass, Alec on drums, Rounding out band the are Michael Carvale on stage and leaves smiling. everyone andvocals piano, she commands attention to making start aname for herself. With great Minnesota from Key West, Florida, in2005 family. It didn’t her take long after moving to age of five with support the of amusical SouthernHospitalityBand.com Fowler, 10 p.m. Wainwright, J.P. Soars, &Damon with Hospitality Southern Victor at bottom. the sweet voice that’s childlikeat top, the husky Web site of agency, their PiedmontTalent.com: Fowler and J.P. The Soars! following is from the to whole the take package including Damon summer with Southern Hospitality, we so had Unfortunately –LOL –Victor’s on tour this and Ijust went crazyfor his piano playing. livehim twice with his band Wild the Roots, Wainwright to play Blues the Fest. I’d heard It to as started idea get the Victor McFarland – Karen Davina performing hassince the been song is ‘lipstickandchrome,’“The named for 2013 M , the tune, the is rooted inearly 20th ississippi V alley B lues p.m. on Thursday. conduct workshop keyboard afree at 5:30 .” t ar h c number nine on Billboard the Blindthe Pig label. The album debuted at Easy Livin’, produced by Tab Benoit on Southern Hospitality CD released their in Wheeling, West Virginia. This year 2011 at Heritage the Music Blues Fest opening for Buddy Guy inAugust lineup debut and made official their and Soars’ Peet Chris drummer to the bassist Chuck from Fowler’s Riley band Hospitality, three the musicians added Party.Cruise Rhythmfor &Blues Legendary the Pre- approachedSociety about trio the playing performance,the South the Florida Blues at apost-festival party. After witnessing ondecided an impromptu jam together at afestival inFlorida inJuly of 2011, performing with respective their bands andSoars, Wainwright, were who Perkins Piano Player Blues Music Award. This year Victor won coveted the Pinetop powerhouse blues, and roots rock ’n’ roll. piano, boogie octane big sounds, soul Wainwright is known for his high- Blues Male Memphis-based Artist. Victor Music Award Contemporary as Best the he was nominated year this for aBlues playingjazz with plenty of rock potency, known for his distinctive gypsy-swing A singer/songwriter and guitarist best guitarist best the competition. inthe and he wonKing award Albert the as International Blues Challenge in2009, and his band won Blues the Foundation’s hint of late the Duane Allman. J.P. Soars his slideand guitar while Jeff has a Beck, who’s compared been to Johnny Winter slidestring, guitar, lap steel, and Dobro and soul the embody spirit of Dixie. Southern soul, blues, and rock music to musicians draw on richheritage their of tomusicians’ mix.These the set skill of his craft bringing aunique and style wizard Victor Wainwright, eachamaster extraordinaire J.P. and Soars, keyboard guitar master Damon Fowler, guitarist Hospitality is composed of lap-steel- Memphis, and Macon, Southern F Karen McFarland – Karen The band’s Victor Wainwright will “Dubbing themselves Southern band originated“The Fowler, when “Damon Fowler is amaster of six- the “With of echoes Muscle Shoals, estiv al blues sales My Bed My intwo acclaimed CDs critically –the Devil out on his own with his band, he has released before entering into Mississippi the Valley give Business Serious awholesound new to createdecided lineup anew that would and founder and guitarist lead John Pena blues. This year, Pena Eladio drummer stagethe and won Iowa the Blues Challenge blueslocal band Business Serious took to drums. is Dave Abdo on bass and Wes Weeber on than apower plant.” The rhythm section with intensity and emotion. More energy Tab Benoit. Blues Blast Magazine says: “Blues Montoya, Coco fiery mixed with adash of guitar are reminiscent of ayounger, more- Mississippi Mississippi Valley BluesChallenge, 3p.m. playing Friday inthat order. Business, and Island Rock the Rollers – werefinals Avey Chris the Band, Serious Mississippi Misfits, and Wheelhouse. Harris Jared the Collection, Hughes Band, a strong of field competitors, including Challenge preliminary rounds featured The Mississippito finals. the Valley Blues where one band from eachround advanced venue, The Muddy Waters inBettendorf, preliminary rounds at sponsoring the Blues Festival –at 5p.m. on Saturday, July 6. bandshell slot year’s inthis Mississippi Valley in Memphis, as well as receiving apaid International 30th the Blues Challenge winner ofthe challenge the for qualifying of play bands the will for 20minutes, with for achance named to be victor. the Each festival year this with three bands vying roundChallenge final is held being at the Bandshell Friday, July5: Serious Business.Serious In spring the of 2012, Chris AveyChris Band.Avey, Chris former The three bands that advanced to the The challenge with started three The first Mississippi Valley Blues and Preacherman and vocals. Since vocals. striking attack and fiery stinging guitar bandthe with his Pete Pearson, fuels for blues icon Big backing vocalist guitaristlead and boogie and soulful boogie inrockin’styles with performance Muddy Waters, round at The preliminary . Chris’s and vocals | 2013 Mississippi Valley Blues Festival • July 4 - 6 • LeClaire Park, Davenport, Iowa • MVBS.org 17

al v esti F What can I say I say can What about Anthony I can Well Gomes? saying by start out those of one is he play that artists lues B review of Runaway review of . alley V “The answer here is yes, especially yes, is here “The answer – Karen McFarland Samantha’s guitar-playing has been has guitar-playing Samantha’s then but a drummer, as started out Fish , Star City the Kansas to According Revue Blues The asked this question: “If you’re 22 years old, old, 22 years you’re “If this question: asked reviewers have and in the Midwest, live a mere after dues’ your ‘paid you claim the sing really you can life, decadestwo of blues? which technique, great by when supported magnificently demonstrates Fish Samantha reviewer One solo album. this debut on After, Years Lee Alvin Ten to her of likens of in the pantheon her place while others including guitarists, female contemporary also is Fish clone, mere No Popović. Ana Jimmy Hendrix, that in the way inventive made Bonnie Raitt and Fogerty, John Page, them.” for speakthe guitar just Best New Artist Debut in 2012 for her solo her in 2012 for ArtistBest Debut New Runawayeffort, Lang described between Jonny a cross as vocals throaty her and Tedeschi, Susan and City Pitch age. Kansas of belie young her sultry describes style her this way: “Fish’s sound groove-oriented rootsy, and voice in style KC or Chicago, Delta, quite aren’t Tom for room with amalgamation, an but Lightnin’ Cedric and Burnside, Waits, Malcolm.” teeth her 15, cutting at the guitar up picked Observing covers. local Bonnie Raitt on scene – along City the Kansas on talent King B.B. of hours countless watching with DVDs concert Ray Vaughan Stevie and She a gifted become Fish player. – helped Under Trampled of the members considers watch her allowing for mentors her Foot them. with jam them and blues a variety of also studied Samantha James, Skip King, Freddie as such players Live- Patton. Charlie and Son House, and Zito Mike influences included music about very was She diligent Benoit. Tab then and players guitar other watching at guitar on “lessons” her out working home. Anthony Gomes, 9 p.m. 9 Gomes, Anthony AnthonyGomes.com ississippi in 2013 M 2013 CD project and and CD project

want to miss this band! The buzz was was buzz The this band! miss to want Whiskey ’n’ Rain the CD Whiskey out They put ’n’ Just since 2010, when Samantha Fish Fish 2010, when Samantha since Just So if you’re feeling down, blue, old, or or old, blue, down, feeling So if you’re – Steve Heston The first time I saw the group was when was the group time first I saw The 2011 with 10 original songs, and a five- a and 10 original songs, 2011 with in 2013, which Kiddin’, Ya Who CD, song the IBC their to trip for together put was songs of let the number Don’t in Memphis. because though, it, buying from you keep every great! is song in 2006 and 2007 by Suburban 2007 by Nitelife in 2006 and . Magazine Samantha Fish, 7 p.m. Samantha Fish, SamanthaFish.com going through the crowd everywhere. By the crowd through going the timethey did their final set, (winning) I went only. standing-room was the place see time to when they the band were another time a full the shorter than setdoing rather see to I wanted challenge; period the blues of a full energy for and if they the stamina had let down! I wasn’t say, to Needless show. they were performing in Peoria’s blues blues in Peoria’s performing they were I’d a call that got and away I was challenge. did because you stage that to over get better not was only 21, she has seen almost has an 21, she only was fame. and rise recognition meteoric to in her “discovered” was she year, That through and City, Kansas of hometown to asked next was she connection a lucky Ruf for Wilde Dani and Cassie Taylor join Girls withRecords’ Guitars the following tour of the U.S. and Europe. Europe. and the U.S. of tour the following for Award Music the Blues won she Then just in a slump, then don’t miss this band! this band! miss then don’t in a slump, just better lot a whole feel you’ll I guarantee afterward! Jimmy Nick Nick Jimmy is a blues- is prodigy guitar beenwho has developing and chops his Thompson Thompson tenor on saxophone, Todd Lowell and bass, on Baer on Joel drums. the Rock Island SoulfulRollers. and their sound funky, to will straight go move and gut your Since spirit. your

The band consists of Jimmy Nick Nick Jimmy of consists band The Kristy Bennett – Kristy From the heart Rollers. From The Rock Island

JimmyNick.com McCutchen on drums. on McCutchen Mama, 5 p.m. Tell Nick & Don’t Jimmy vocals, Kip Heaberlin on bass, and George George and bass, on Heaberlin vocals, Kip and vocals, Justin Appel on keyboards and and keyboards on Appel vocals, Justin and on vocals and guitar, Heath Alan on sax on Alan Heath guitar, vocals and on The Rock Island Rollers consist of Jeff Bands Bands Jeff of consist Rollers RockThe Island philosophy: Let the music speak for itself. itself. speak Letphilosophy: for the music The Rock Island Rollers have one simple simple one have Rollers RockThe Island their first record, to be released this month. be to this released month. their record, first Blues Challenge, they’ve begun work on on begun work they’ve Challenge, Blues of the heartland – Des Moines, Iowa – comes comes – Iowa the – Des heartland Moines, of the 2012 Iowa winning Since in the Midwest. and R&B flavors. R&B flavors. and the best of one as known become quickly has combination of rock, jazz-fusion, funk, jazz-fusion, soul, rock, of combination 2012, the band of in January their founding live performances, people will people also a performances, hear live Keeping it real with blues as the core of their of the core as blues with real it Keeping energy original material and cover tunes. tunes. cover and energy original material a sound featuring a combination of high- of a combination featuring a sound guitar, Serious Business has since created created since has Serious Business guitar, McNeil and his son John Pena II on bass bass II on Pena John son his and McNeil longtime friend and singer Willie “The Mac” “The Mac” Willie singer friend and longtime Blues Challenge. After John Pena recruited recruited Pena John After Challenge. Blues He was also voted best band under 21 under best band also was voted He International Blues Challenge in Memphis. in Memphis. Challenge Blues International Blues Challenge, and he performed at the performed at he and Challenge, Blues winner of the River City Blues Society’s Society’s Blues City the River of winner Guitar Slinger Challenge in 2012 and the in 2012 and Challenge Slinger Guitar He was a finalist in the Chicago Blues a finalist Blues was in the Chicago He his boundless energy and stage presence. presence. stage energy boundless his and Chicago clubs. That’s where he cultivated cultivated he where That’s clubs. Chicago licks on guitar since he was 16 years old in old 16 years was he since guitar on licks Goffron on vocals and guitar, Ben guitar, vocals and on Goffron 18 2013 Mississippi Valley Blues Festival • July 4 - 6 • LeClaire Park, Davenport, Iowa • MVBS.org | follow his talent recognized and was singing Monroe, Louisiana, Sam home left at 13to songs inchurch at age the of in five. Born talent he when belting started out gospel Clay,Otis James Carr, and Redding.” Otis likevocalists Bobby Bland, Solomon Burke, popularity. He on carries tradition the of music the 1960s, when enjoyed its peak blues, one of masters original the from the McClain inSouthern soul- is aspecialist All Music Guide bandshell on Friday and you’ll Ithink agree. andheart Come on needs. soul over to the sometimes music is only the medicine the playing, is. it Iread somewhere truly that “Bluescalled Is Medicine,” the and with him to last. the Anthony Gomes plays asong crowdthe up on its feet from first song the audience, but right there with him.He had in along Iwas there, while. not just inthe one of blues best the shows Ihad attended with him,andthat thinking Ileft was this area where he had two background singers MightySam.com McClain,11p.m. Sam Mighty and it shows inhis music. before him.He has for respect of all them, ofhistory great the blues players that came He has stage presence that is mesmerizing. last, he is there, zone inthe or moment. the it his life. all From opening the note to the blues and sings riffs likedoing he has been opinion it he He does all. rips off those is: Absolutely, no doubt about it. In my a blues artist? Well my answer to that questions asked. Is he really artist and some of also the read many articlesabout this feel his emotion. what see Imean. Youwill can hewhen is performing and you and into place. Look his eyes is just doesn’t play that thing; he is an extension of his arm. He way he grips that guitar like it byeasily way the he plays, the with passion. You can tell this Friday, July5: Bandshell that instrument, at that time Sam McClain’s family heard his singing According to Richard Skelly inthe – Michael Livermore I recently saw club himinasmall in this You can tell artist has this studied his Yes, Ihave heard about and 2013 M ississippi , “Vocalist Mighty Sam V alley B lues u.” ou y with a song, and I’ve got amessage for “I’m himbest: describes asinger, aman his His heart. “Soul of America” song and power, singing from bottom the of his with life amazing experiences depth for Sam. His performances translate 40 years now, it’s steam ahead full been Song category. Best the For more than nominated for aBlues Music Award in by McClain and Pat Herlehy, was following year title song, the written (Not Enough Whiskey) in2012.The funds to prevent homelessness. Poor This song to was Give added the Us Your Way”the as aduet with Jon Jovi. Bon Scott Shetler) and recorded “Show Me in 2008he co-wrote (with saxophonist desirea deep to help homeless, the and Award nominations. Dreams he recorded Blues for theSweet Soul and found his way to New England, where worldwide. Within afew years, Sam and touring was soon and recording discovered by Neville the Brothers that later Sam’s became gift. familiarityhim the and life-living songs inhistough life experience that gave justblood to buy But ameal. it was that homeless and would have his to sell to work jobs.At menial he times lived ignored by music the and industry had harsh,could be and for 15years he was agethe of 15. with “Littlelead Melvin” Underwood by F – Kristy Bennett McClain recorded Too Much Jesus of Sam his hasBecause experiences, At Sam’s lowest time, he was Sam that learned soon road the estiv CD, continues which to help raise , both receiving, both W.C. Handy al Winter BluesAllStars, 4p.m. Friday, July5: Tent Children’s Choir and Sunshine’s well City as with Quad Symphony the Speakeasy, the Airport, and Circa ’21, as Mall, Festival of Trees, City Quad the Cities SouthPark including Beanz, Cool various locations throughout Quad the in kindergarten, she has in performed of her voice. Since singing her first solo she could manipulate easily sound the of music vocal as as she soon learned Illinois, developed an interest forms inall Guy, King, and Albert B.B. King. Brothers and Business), Serious Buddy his grandfather (John Pena of Pena the Some of his favorite guitarists include Tommy Castro, Lil’ Ed, and Billy Branch. famousseveral musicians, including playing guitar, also. He’s with performed out but as adrummer discovered he loves since years he was seven old. He started “hair band” era. genre ’80sclassic being rock from the HotRed Peppers, Chili with his favorite McCartney toof of Flea the Beatles the bass-playing influencesrange from Paul CampRock for past the two years. His active RME’s inthe and been has also orchestra and and jazz bands, pep Jim performs Moline inthe High School and double the grade. bass since fifth playing basshas guitar been electric the sticking with saxophone through school. third and grade saxophone grade, insixth kinds ofwith all music, learning piano in bands, and pit the orchestra. She grewup marching,in the symphonic, and pep High School,where she participates AllStars from 2012session. December the from region the guests. as special Society, as well as veteran blues musicians Hal of Mississippi the Reed Valley Blues and are by led Kell Ellis of RMEand the musicians from eight to 18years of age, improvisation. sessions These are open to concentration on blues composition and keyboards, and as drums), well as a workshops (guitar, bass, harmonica, program features and vocal instrumental Blues program. The annual Winter Blues from Riverthe Music Experience’s Winter of talented young musicians selected Sarah Elisabeth Hanson,Sarah Elisabeth from Viola, Matt Fuller, playing 14, has been guitar Jim Drain, a16-year-old sophomore, Antonetta Axup attends Island Rock Here’s some information on the The Winter Blues AllStars is composed | 2013 Mississippi Valley Blues Festival • July 4 - 6 • LeClaire Park, Davenport, Iowa • MVBS.org 19 al for The Real Real The Deal Mike Vernon’s Atlantic- distributed Code Blue Primer label, 13 spent the as years ever-reliable rhythm guitarist Magic with v esti F , Bill Dahl wrote: , Bill Dahl wrote: lues B alley V Born March 3, 1945 in Camden, Mississippi, Mississippi, 3, 1945 in Camden, Born March All Music Guide Music the All In off paid has grounding that “All Recently Alexander has been covering been has covering Alexander Recently interview Reader Cities’ a 2009 River For – Stan Furlong handsomely for Primer. His sound is is sound His Primer. for handsomely blues City Windy in the classic rooted decades rough-edged past: of sound satisfying and uncompromising and real the last of one He’s in the extreme. in town.” traditionalists “By any yardstick, Chicago guitarist John John guitarist Chicago yardstick, any “By making to Prior dues. his paid has Primer filled he that, Before & the Teardrops. Slim immortals behind Chicago role the same Dixon. Willie and Waters Muddy France and Poland. and France Hendrix, Jimi and Brown James of the work this versatile how just you which shows to going not 8, I’m at On Friday is. singer going I’m location. in my versatility any show I can as the stage close to as beto in the tent, get. RCReader.com/y/ visit Deewith Alexander, alexander. John Primer, 10 p.m. John Primer, JohnPrimerBlues.com ississippi

2013 M 2013 , the

Make sure to stop by by stop to sure Make . Home – A Home , the 2011 DVD Before the summer of 2009, I’d never never 2009, I’d of the summer Before Downbeat it. for word take my Don’t Scottie performs performs Scottie the include releases recent most Scottie’s Miller Scottie will be that forget don’t And – Karen McFarland heard of Dee Alexander. After I heard her in her I heard After Dee Alexander. of heard her. forget never 3, I knew I’d July on the tent instrument. an as uses voice her she says She one makes description that does, but She A Dee singer. scat another just think she’s goes beyond so far performance Alexander you’d that singer expect any from you’d what adequately to me than writer need a better as just was audience describe whole The it. I was. as excited and entranced of mother calls “the her Magazine the Is Wild CD her gave and reinvention” Wind received 2008, she In rating. a five-star Entertainer Jazz Awards Music the Chicago the of the Chicagoan and award the Year of . The Tribune the Chicago from award Year Tribune in mainstream adept “Equally wrote: big- experimentation, outer-fringe and swing Alexander fare, small-group jazz, and band all occasions.” a jazz as vocalist for stands Alexander Europe, of tour During her in newspapers reviews from rave received worldwide as a solo artist, or or a solo artist, as worldwide the Miller Scottie Band with drummer (which features Joe guitarist O’Day, Mark Kevin bassist Cruz, and also is Scottie the Rowe). for keyboardist touring and nominee 2010 Grammy Award Music multi-Blues & The Foster Ruthie winner appears He Band. Family Live her on at Antone’s 2010 CD Live the , and Miller Scottie with Concert House Rise2012 album Up. up! one pick and In 4 p.m. at a free keyboard workshop giving out stands Scottie players, full piano a fest of Let yourself eclectic and player. a versatile as be impressed! Blues Music Award DVD DVD Award Music Blues In in 2012. the Year of into inducted was 2008, he his for Fame of Hall Blues the Minnesota heritage and music blues to contributions instructional CD titled his book with and Keyboards Rock Dee Alexander, 8 p.m. Dee Alexander, DeeAlexander.net .

When the MVBS brought Scottie Miller Scottie the MVBS brought When

Kristy Bennett – Kristy Participants in the Winter Blues program program Blues in the Winter Participants Morgan Williams is home-schooled home-schooled is Williams Morgan Cooper Schou has been playing music for for music Cooper been has Schou playing Neil Saigal is from Bettendorf and is a is and Bettendorf from is Saigal Neil Blues Revue Blues of Hyslop at Bruce Springsteen’s house,” noted Tom Tom noted house,” Bruce Springsteen’s at jazz. “Sounds like Dr. John meets The Band Band meets The John Dr. like jazz. “Sounds is a combination of blues, soul, funk, and funk, soul, and blues, of a combination is and singer/songwriter. His musical style musical His singer/songwriter. and impressed by this Minneapolis-born pianist pianist this Minneapolis-born by impressed last year, those of us in attendance were were in attendance us those of year, last and his band to Martini’s on the Rock on Martini’s to band his and

6 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. and Friday on 6 p.m. ScottieMiller.com will also participate in BlueSKool sessions at at sessions will in BlueSKool also participate Miller 6 p.m. Scottie Band, instruments and music. and instruments has an increasing interest in learning new learning in interest increasing an has She picked up a guitar last summer and and summer last a guitar up picked She old, and continues to explore new genres. new genres. explore to continues and old, country music when she was four years years four was when she country music music. She started playing violin and singing singing and violin started playing She music. and enjoys spending her free time playing free time playing her spending enjoys and years. Motown that his father has fed him over the over him fed has father his that Motown is the steady diet of ’70s funk, R&B, and and ’70s funk, R&B, diet of the steady is artists, and says his biggest musical influence influence musical biggest his says and artists, listens to and loves many different musical musical different many loves and to listens the RME for the past three years. Cooper years. three the past the RME for Winter Blues and Rock Camp programs at at programs Rock Camp and Blues Winter band. Cooper has been involved in both the Cooperband. been has involved the marching band, and drums in the jazz and band, the marching High School concert band, snare drum in snare band, School concert High plays percussion in the Pleasant Valley Valley in the Pleasant percussion plays piano before taking on the drums. Cooper taking on before piano more than half of his 14 years, starting on on starting 14 years, his half of than more and Jimi Hendrix. Jimi and funk. His influences are Stevie Ray Vaughan Ray Vaughan Stevie are influences funk. His loves all types of music but prefers blues and and blues prefers but all types music of loves including guitar, piano, and saxophone. Neil Neil saxophone. and piano, guitar, including has been playing music since he was 10, was he since music beenhas playing Performing Arts. Performing He School. High Valley Pleasant at senior Friday, July 5: Tent 5: July Friday, 20 2013 Mississippi Valley Blues Festival • July 4 - 6 • LeClaire Park, Davenport, Iowa • MVBS.org | rehearsing by day, expanding his repertoire. was woodshedding –jamming at night and West sideclubs. From 1968to 1974,Primer year he was fronting aband that played the followed his family to Chicago, and within a James, B.B. King, King. and In Albert 1963he John Hooker, Lee Lightnin’ Hopkins, Elmore Howlin’ Wolf, Jimmy Little Reed, Milton, he heard on radiofrom the Muddy Waters, young age he was excited about blues the first picked up aguitar at eight. Even at that into afamily of sharecroppers, John Primer Friday, July5: Tent Knockin’ Around Knockin’ past year: released 11albums, including two inthe of Dixon both and Slim.” Since he’s then, singing techniques showing influence the Deal 1995 Primer releasedalbum, asolo The Real Primer joined forces with Magic Slim. In king until his 1983death. Right after that, Waters, playing with Chicago the blues recruited to join last the band of Muddy join his All-Stars, and in1980Primer was Primer how to play slide. Waters alumnus Sammy Lawhorn taught atalso Theresa’s that bandmate and Muddy Buford, Rush, Otis and many more.” It was Wells, Buddy Guy, Pinetop Perkins, Mojo like Johnny Winter, Paul Butterfield, Junior influential people blues inthe world. People got me play. to see Imet alot of very Playing nights seven aweek, lots of people “Theresa’s Loungeimportant. was very inBluesStiles, ina2000interview on Stage, and he stayed there until 1979.He told Ray band of Theresa’s Lounge on South the Side, landed role the of guitarist house inthe conduct aworkshop at 5:30p.m. Achievement Award at 9:45p.m. He also will given RiverRoad be the Lifetime will share that with audience.” the down, feeling good to inmy and heart, Itry Muddy Waters. When Iplay Ifeel adeep- from this I learned Sammy Lawhorn and notes. No one plays else slide the like me. 440 and Ifinger-pick slide the inbetween play slide. the Ikeep strings the tuned to A my to close form. original the style Ialso to keep bluesthe is style. original Itry the responded Stiles: to “My interviewer of style Music Awards. Traditional Blues Album at 2013Blues the Ground Solid on with harp player Corritore Bob and Blues In 1979,Willie Dixon asked Primer to By alucky turn of events, in1974Primer Karen McFarland – Karen Prior to his performance, John Primer Asked of his style blues, to describe Primer 2013 M , with, as Dahl says,, with, “songwriting as Dahl and ississippi , which was, which nominated for These Blues These V alley

B lues F The44sBluesBand.com The 44s, 7 p.m. Challenge Winner, 5p.m. ValleyMississippi Blues ReverendRaven.com Smokin’ Altar Boys, 3p.m. Reverend Raven &theChain- Orange County brother-in- (California) disappointed! Saturday to hear band. this You won’t be on down to bandshell the at 3p.m. on is on early Start party sax. the and come Moore plays keyboards,and Big Groth Al is on Sellers Danny drums, bass, Bob Raven plays guitars, P.T. Peterson is on and were they excellent shows! Reverend they’vetimes played Cities, Quad inthe Smokin’ Altar last the couple Boys of in 1999,2000,2004,2005,2008,and 2010. Industry awarded “BestBlues them Band” and Bishop. Elvin The Wisconsin Music such as B.B. King, Gatemouth Brown, Altar and Boys opening started for greats Eventually, he formed Chain-Smokin’ the player for Jimmy Rogers) for 10 years. up Madison Slim (longtime harmonica inWisconsin,settled where he backed Navy,in the he came back stateside and play guitar. our country After serving he Raven wanted decided Rik when to King inhis hometown of Chicago. That’s Wells, and three the Kings.” Jimmy Rogers, Billy Arnold, Boy Junior with to nods Slim Harpo, Little Walter, guitar, play they songs original peppered hot harmonica and smooth,stinging With smoking up grooves, with served straight up with abig of dose passion. Altar as playing Boys “traditional blues, Reverend Raven Chain-Smokin’ &the Saturday, July6:Bandshell estiv I first heard about 44sfrom the my – Jack Allen I saw Reverend Raven Chain- &the In Reverend 1971,the saw Freddie I agree with how its Web site describes al will havewill you up and rockin’! of Howlin’ Wolf and Muddy Waters, 44s the giving workshop afree at 4p.m. Reminscent Tex Nakamura (harmonica), be will who Main (guitar and and songwriter) vocals, topnotch cast of characters, including Johnny Mississippi Valley Blues Festival with a .” e m lifetheir on depends it, and you can quote play hasRamos said of like 44s:“They the to feet their and to hear begging more. Kid a genuine talent for bringing its audiences outBased of Angeles, Los band the displays is adistinctrawness to blues this quartet. channel ablues of style days past, but there King’s Blues position of number 12on national the Living issued on Rip Cat Records, hitting apeak andRamos was quickly snatched up and produced for $800with help the of Kid first release,, was self- Disease Boogie playing blues-roots rock eversince. Their 44shavethe touring been nonstop and International Blues Challenge inMemphis, fourth finished inthe they in 2007when band of festival! the sleeper the be predict will they at 2013festival. I picked for aslot unanimously committee entertainment band that the were first the praise: The 44s not alone inmy to dance to. material,original and mesmerizing rhythms blues band with that West sound, Coast Valley Fairgrounds.) Wow! This is areal motorcycle swap at meet Mississippi the sittingwith Ramos in.(Kid was here for the 44s got into booked Muddy the Waters here, Kid onwhiz Ramos aregular basis. Then the law Tommy, hangs who out with L.A.guitar WCClark.com W.C. Clark, 9p.m. Pickett and guitar the of Steve Cropper and powervocal of Redding and Otis Wilson – Karen McFarland The 44smake appearance their at the The 44splay vintage instruments and Making first mark their blues inthe scene And Iwas Blues Revue radiocharts and number two on B.B. Bluesville says: “Clark conjures the on satellite radio.

| 2013 Mississippi Valley Blues Festival • July 4 - 6 • LeClaire Park, Davenport, Iowa • MVBS.org 21 al Tent v esti F lues B alley V Making his first appearance at our our at appearance first his Making Detroit Larry Davison and Chris Avey Larry Chris Avey and Detroit Davison Larry is at Chris Avey be of seeing a lot You’ll back- voted were Brothers Avey The and Larry’s hear to out on So come McFarland – Karen Saturday, July 6: July Saturday, festival will be internationally acclaimed acclaimed willfestival be internationally Walker. Toby guitarist finger-style in our well-known yet not While highly us to comes he area, immediate are both veteran blues musicians on the on musicians blues both veteran are both stellar TheyQuad scene. are Cities – Larryperformers Chris and harp on guitar on vocals. and their Together, act acoustic like sounds Street Maxwell transported front your to porch. acknowledged harp other – including localby listeners player the best – as harmonica players been many a vital part of He’s in town. and Band the Ellis Kell including bands, he And Blues. Resch & the Detroit John the part as of in Memphis the stage took when they Band reached Brothers Avey Foundation’s thethe Blues finals of in 2010. Challenge Blues International in the band blues real the only (They were something after were the judges finals, but else.) Besides fest. this acoustic the 2013 blues Chris the heads Chris Avey set Larry, with Valley (finalistsBand in the Mississippi Brothers the Avey and Challenge), Blues the 2013 after-fest for band the host are showcase. 2009 the 2008 and of champions to-back shared They have Challenge. Blues Iowa such artists top-tier many with the stage Lil’ Delbert McClinton, Neal, Kenny as Trout, Walter Imperials, Ed & the Blues and Brooks, Lonnie Baker Brooks, Ronnie Phoenix, Arizona; of Pearson Pete Big backing and Chris guitarist his was years. many vocalist for the that the best blues of set – more Chris’ offer. to has Valley Mississippi Toby Walker, 6 p.m. Walker, Toby LittleTobyWalker.com Detroit Larry Detroit Chris & Davison 4 p.m. Avey, ississippi 2013 M 2013 familiar name, name, familiar is Chris Layton drums; he on Stevie joined & Ray Vaughan Trouble Double in 1978 in Texas. Austin, Following lists Shepherd as the third- as Shepherd lists His band includes Noah Hunt on lead on Hunt Noah includes band His Kenny Wayne Shepherd has really made a made really has Shepherd Wayne Kenny the newest is bass on Franklin Tony an of much how realizes Shepherd – Steve Heston – from WCClark.com – from best blues guitarist ever, placing him right him right placing ever, guitarist best blues has He Eric Clapton. and King behind B.B. records. of sold millions the band formed he in college, vocals. While he albums; four recorded and Six Uncle 1998. A since band beenhas the KWS with name for himself, even though he is still only still is he even though only himself, for name met and born was in Louisiana 30s. He in his shared seven and age at Ray Vaughan Stevie Bryan age Lee at Orleans’ New with the stage 13. Guitar World Tommy bassist and he death, Stevie’s and Sexton Charlie with joined Shannon Angels. Arc formed II and Bramhall Doyle CDs Shepherd’s of many on played has He him in with started touring eventually and 2006. big first his got He the band. to addition Page, in the Firm Jimmy with playing break of number a huge with played has he but 150 than more on appeared has and people Riley from keyboards is on Osbourn albums. a much-sought-after is and Texas, Austin, more performed on who has player studio band the KWS joined He 100 albums. than in 2007. of in the lives play can music role emotional get “I saying: as quoted is He listeners. his heart out my every play stage to on night up to I want try their ear. and on people turn to music. my with lives people’s into light bring hour an good feel for people make I can If whatever about they forget a half and and doing then I’m themout, be stressing might been He’s sure: for is thing One job.” my time! a long for job right his doing Clark’s ability to sing as soulfully as Al Green soulfully as Al as Green sing to ability Clark’s tasteful precision.” such with guitar play and 11 p.m. Band, Shepherd Wayne Kenny KennyWayneShepherd.net celebrated celebrated Albert King.” Albert King.” mix Clark’s modern of blues, Texas searing and guitar, heartfelt, Memphis- style soul vocals have declared: declared: , Clark has has , Clark Limits , produced by Mark “Kaz” Kazanoff of of Kazanoff “Kaz” Mark by , produced From Austin with with Austin From 2002 album On his In 1989, the critically acclaimed PBS PBS 1989, the critically acclaimed In In the early 1970s, W.C. met and and met 1970s, W.C. the early In Known as the “Godfather of Austin Blues,” Blues,” Austin of the “Godfather as Known painted his masterpiece. Few artists rival artists Few masterpiece. his painted “With Austin with From Soul Blues Revue highlights. Blues musical Thing,” is only one of the album’s many many the album’s of one only is Thing,” Marcia Ball, on “Don’t Mess Up a Good Up Mess Ball, “Don’t on Marcia Records debut. Clark’s emotional duet with with duet emotional Clark’s debut. Records the Texas Horns, Clark made his Alligator Alligator his made Clark Horns, the Texas Soul audience for the time. first for audience brought Clark to the attention of a national a national of the attention to Clark brought broadcast, one of the series’ most popular, popular, most the series’ of one broadcast, Lou Ann Barton, and Angela Strehli. The The Strehli. Angela and Barton, Ann Lou Vaughan, Jimmie Vaughan, Kim Wilson, Wilson, Kim Vaughan, Jimmie Vaughan, together with his disciples Stevie Ray Stevie disciples his with together Clark’s 50th birthday by bringing Clark Clark bringing by 50th birthday Clark’s television show Austin show Citytelevision platinum record. platinum hits, and recently earned W.C. his first first his earned W.C. recently and hits, Shot,” which became one of SRV’s biggest biggest SRV’s of which became one Shot,” and keyboardist Kindred co-wrote “Cold “Cold co-wrote Kindred keyboardist and Barton. While playing in this band, Clark Clark in this band, playing While Barton. Freddie Pharoah, and singer Lou Ann Ann Lou singer and Pharoah, Freddie Stevie, keyboardist Mike Kindred, drummer Kindred, Mike keyboardist Stevie, bass player in the Triple Threat Revue with Threat in the Triple player bass his day job as a mechanic to become the become to a mechanic job as day his brother Stevie Ray. Clark eventually quit quit eventually Clark Ray. Stevie brother befriended Jimmie Vaughan’s guitarist guitarist Vaughan’s befriended Jimmie Davis and James Brown. Brown. James and Davis blues stars along the way, including Tyrone Tyrone including the way, along stars blues firsthand from Tex and countless soul and soul and countless and Tex from firsthand Southern “chitlin’ circuit,” learning music music learning circuit,” “chitlin’ Southern guitar slot in his group. Clark toured the toured Clark group. in his slot guitar Tex, who recruited W.C. to fill the vacant fill to the vacant W.C. who recruited Tex, Playhouse. There he met R&B hit-maker Joe Joe R&B hit-maker met he There Playhouse. Jets at the popular Austin nightclub Charlie’s Charlie’s nightclub Austin the popular at Jets six-year stint with Blues Boy Hubbard & the Boy Hubbard Blues with stint six-year Born in 1939, he began in the early 1960s a Born began in the early in 1939, he points of the music for almost 40 years. 40 years. almost for the music of points young blues and soul players in the finer soul players and blues young W.C. Clark has been mentoring countless countless been has Clark mentoring W.C. alike. made him a favorite of blues and R&B fans R&B fans and blues of him a favorite made 22 2013 Mississippi Valley Blues Festival • July 4 - 6 • LeClaire Park, Davenport, Iowa • MVBS.org | blown away!” out, you have to hear great this musician. I’m it, though. As Jorma Kaukonen says: “Flat Toby is a“must see.” Don’t my take word for stages, no one it can but all, see me, believe p.m. workshop at Freight the House stage. can come early Saturday and catch his 2:30 join in,as well. If one show isn’t enough, you bass, and we are here be she to hopeful will backing on Mama Shake Shake varietyof wide the material he performs. that proves itself most to be appropriate for developed amore relaxed and mellow style first demonstrated. With Toby his vocals, has such as Willie Johnson Johnson, or Robert emotion that other forefathers of genre, the Broonzy, his playing can now capture raw the re-create lines the of Blind Blake or Big Bill dexterity possessing the to andstill speed blues CDs released inyears. to be While undoubtedly one of country-style best the His latest CD, Mama Shake Shake and, yes, I’ve probably changed, as well. voice.”a frail thought he was a“frantic finger-picker with I usually keep private), Icommented that I In inlooking back at fact, my notes (which festival. Imust say Iwas less than impressed. submitted aCDfor consideration for our Toby Walker years several ago he when first with fantasticreal killer technique.” recommended. John Hammond Toby calls “a Saturday, July6: Tent Toby’s lovely wife Carol provided solid the Well, have times changed, Toby’s changed, I personally was first made aware of – Bob Covemaker We know that at our festival with multiple 2013 M ississippi V on upright upright on alley , is B lues Ironing Board Sam &ArdieIroning Board Sam Dean,8p.m repertoire of originals and both classic Ironing Sam Board has amassed astaggering professionally for more than 55years, about Ironing Sam: Board “After playing notby silenced will be poverty and time. musicians make who it, ensuring voices their of South the by directly supporting the founded to musical the preserve traditions Music Maker Relief Foundation, was which musician. We have worked before with the of performing great this form. art talented –blues musicians with many years nationalin the spotlight but are extremely blues artists to festival the that may not be prides itself on bringing adiverse group of F This is what foundation the has to say Ironing Sam Board is aMusic Maker The Mississippi Valley Blues Society estiv al . and studying music at Texas Southern 21st birthday, after winning ascholarship saxophone, and flute. It wasn’t until his first musical instruments were piano, tenor of soul, and jazz, funk, Motown, and his His earliest musical influenceswere amix Texas, far from bayous the of Louisiana. C.J. grewup projects inthe of Port Arthur, of Zydeco, Clifton Chenier. legendary the September son 28,1957,the of King the a strong wind offGulf.” the successor. He blues letsthe and rip like funk Clifton’s son C.J. may royal true the well be Chenier’s death in1987are many, but to zydeco the throne vacated by Clifton dance music.” Downbeat creating contemporary, turbo-charged tension and drive of James Brown ... attacksChenier accordion the with the Angeles, [and] Memphis once more.” to Memphis, to then Chicago, Iowa, Los Screaming Jay Hawkins –as he moved back Little Richard crossed with aslightly saner was already ashowman –aslightly mellower an ironing board. But make no mistake, Sam stand for organ, his electric he mounted it on was on inMiami, scene the where, lacking a piano and organ at age 14.By late the ’50she Carolina, on locally in1939,he begangigging CJChenierAndTheRedHotLouisianaBand.com Louisiana Band, 10p.m. C. J. Chenier &theRedHot workshop at 5:30p.m. Sam at RCReader.com/y/sam. phones, check out of video the Ironing Board by Ardie on Dean drums. him well, for Sam could put on ashow. television program Night Train, remember inperson or him,whether onsee R&B the approaching hitdom. But got who those to forsingles, all different labels and none touring,minimal and recording sporadic around scenes in local South the with only nearly –working atotal obscurity primarily undiminished. voice and remarkable piano prowess remain engaging performer, Sam’s powerful, soulful blues and and gifted R&Bsongs. Atruly “Born Samuel Moore Hill, inRock South According Globe Boston to The – Michael Livermore Ironing host a also Sam Board will And for you all folks have who smart Ironing accompanied be Sam Board will Clayton Joseph was Chenier born “In his heyday, Ironing Sam Board was

says, “Aspirants , “C.J. | 2013 Mississippi Valley Blues Festival • July 4 - 6 • LeClaire Park, Davenport, Iowa • MVBS.org 23 al v esti F lues B alley V Ellis Kell, director of programming and and programming of director Ellis Kell, a very successful conducted Hal Ellis and Blues harpist, guitarist, singer, bandleader, bandleader, singer, guitarist, harpist, Blues David’s BlueSKool sessions feature free feature sessions BlueSKool David’s Ring – Ann David is an endorsee for Hohner Hohner for endorsee an is David and educator Hal Reed born in was Hal educator and the Delta, miles a few from just Mississippi his influenced by up grew he where folk-blues Southern a talented grandfather, young inspiring to in addition who, artist the need Hal taught the blues, for love Hal’s generation. to generation from on it pass to the Quad on musician Reed a veteran is Hal and bands, various fronted He’s scene. Cities Blues the International them to of one took in Memphis. Challenge Music the River at outreach community also of is a pillar Experience in Davenport, guitarist, As scene. the Quad blues Cities the kept he’s bandleader, and songwriter, 22 years. for together Band Ellis Kell in the Schools a few residency Blues their this sixth is year and back, semesters the River of graduates with collaborating at program Blues Winter Experience’s Music BlueSKool. harmonicas and has taught harmonica harmonica taught has and harmonicas education continuing adult through classes more College for Community Tulsa at also children’s teaches He 12 years. than parks-and- the Tulsa for classes harmonica department. recreation all the kids! for lessons and harmonicas with the Hal Reed and Ellis Kell Blues Kids (BlueSKool) Winter and July 5, Friday, July 6, 6 p.m. Saturday, including alternative schools for at-risk at-risk for schools alternative including his out digs when he Look out students. love his and passion His harmonica! gigantic kids of leaves he and unstoppable, kids is for they what than more something with all ages with. came ississippi 2013 M 2013 What would the Mississippi Valley Blues Blues Valley the Mississippi would What Photographer and educator David David educator and Photographer Festival be without blues educator and and educator blues be without Festival words: Berntson? Three David harpist Galesburg, Originally from it! brings David Club Blues Oklahoma, this Tulsa, Illinois, drug/ and educator, prevention founder, his shares continually counselor alcohol with the blues for passion and enthusiasm presents David adults. and people young schools, of a number in the Schools at Blues Horwitz of Tucson, Arizona, has been has Arizona, Tucson, of Horwitz decades in for festivals and clubs to traveling and ears his for music blues great of search film. on Winner capture to visual images the Keeping Foundation’s the 1999 Blues of David Photography, for Award Alive Blues capturing 25 years than more spent has works His masters. the blues of moments publications. in countless appeared have the Arizona into inducted was 2011, he In 26th his year is This Fame. of Hall Blues Blues Valley the Mississippi shooting of the near exhibit the free photo and Festival, work. David’s will showcase workshops David Berntson (harmonica BlueSKool) David July 5, and Friday, July 6, 3:30 p.m. Saturday, David Horwitz (blues photography HorwitzDavid (blues photography workshop) 5, 2:30 pm. July Friday Workshop and BluSKool Performers BluSKool and Workshop C.J. C.J. , became University, University, C.J. that first performed his with father theand Red Hot Louisiana – Band a saxas player. on went the road Fun , and a 1996 performance at the at performance a 1996 , and – Karen McFarland McFarland – Karen That’s the point! The zydeco of C.J. C.J. of zydeco The the point! That’s Alligator Records reports: “When “When reports: Records Alligator When Paul Simon recorded his his recorded Simon Paul When festival – by blowing the roof off the off tent! the roof blowing – by festival serving up! What a great way to end the end to way a great serving What up! I will get up and dance to what C.J.’s C.J.’s what to dance and I will up get will make you want to dance – yes, even – yes, dance to want will you make Chenier & the Red Hot Louisiana Band Band Louisiana Chenier & the Red Hot hips and cheering in unison.” in unison.” cheering and hips had people young and old shaking their shaking old and young people had Chenier & the Red Hot Louisiana Band Band Louisiana Chenier & the Red Hot after launching into their first song, C.J. C.J. their song, first into launching after make them dance. Almost immediately immediately Almost them dance. make in mind: get them on their feet and and their feet them on get in mind: of 60,000 eager fans, he had one thing thing one had he fans, 60,000 eager of Blues Festival and looked over the crowd the crowd over looked and Festival Blues onto the main stage at the 2001 Chicago the 2001 Chicago at stage the main onto audience to C.J.’s zydeco. zydeco. C.J.’s to audience Chenier stepped C.J. superstar zydeco picked up by VH1 brought a wider VH1 brought by up picked Show Festival & Heritage Jazz Orleans New Jon Stewart the Jon on A 1995 appearance a favorite with fans and critics alike. alike. critics and fans with a favorite Too Much Too album, debut his Records signed C.J. in October 1994, and in October 1994, and signed C.J. Records at the Right Time Tour.” Then Alligator Alligator Then Tour.” Time the Right at drums), then asked him to join his “Born “Born his join him to drums), then asked accordion (alongside Ringo Starr on on Starr Ringo (alongside accordion he handpicked C.J. Chenier to play play Chenier to C.J. handpicked he grew up with. with. grew up , Saints the of Rhythm 1990 album infused it with elements of the music he he the music of infused elements with it his father’s traditional zydeco music and and music zydeco traditional father’s his the Red Hot Louisiana Band. But he took took he But Band. Louisiana the Red Hot inherited his dad’s accordion as well as as well as accordion dad’s his inherited After Clifton’s death in 1987, C.J. in 1987, C.J. death Clifton’s After he asked C.J. to take up the accordion. the accordion. take up to C.J. asked he 1985, Clifton was ill from diabetes, and and diabetes, ill was 1985, Clifton from with his father and the band, but by by but the band, and father his with