HINDS COUNTY PRE-4TH OF JULY BLUES FEST

Hello BLUES AND SOUTHERN SOUL FANS.What can be hotter than the temperature in Mississippi in July?How about the start of all the outdoor blues festivals that are so popular.I just love this time of the year.I just recently attended "The Hinds County Pre-4th Of July Blues Festival" in Edwards,Mississippi.I was really looking forward to this outdoor event.Don't get me wrong I like the settings of a civic center and I just love the vibes that an old fashion juke joint provides but there is nothing like the atmosphere of an outdoor blues festival.The lawn chairs,the tents,the coolers,the delicious southern cuisines being cooked on a grill and the thousands of fans assembled like a big family reunion.Yes this is truly the best of times for the loyal blues and southern soul fans here in the magnolia state.

The lineup for this blues and southern soul gathering included Rick Lawson,Ms. Jody,David Brinston,Lebrado,Robert"Duke"Tillman and T.K. Soul.When I arrived I saw a couple of familar faces in attendance.There was producer and songwriter Bruce Billups,southern soul recording artist Kenne Wayne who made a brief special guest appearance and my good friend Roni a.k.a. "The Clarksdale Diva" and Melissa(Myspace friend).I also had the pleasure of meeting Duke Tillman's business manager,Chestine Jackson who made it all possible for me to cover this show exclusively for you fans.I didn't know the promoter for this event but Chestine introduce me to the man everyone simply referred to as Eddie and he extended me VIP acess so once again the big dawg was able to bring another blues show to life.

The mc for the show was The Ragman(WMPR 90.1 radio personality).There were plenty of vendors on hand and the air was filled with the smell of bar-b-que,hot wings and fried fish.The weather was hot but with all the coolers I saw I know the cold beer was very refreshing.I was joined in Da Dawg Pound by Kenne Wayne,Roni and a few local divas who were truly getting their blues on all night long.So with my cold bud light in hand and my man Kenne Wayne chilling in Da Dawg Pound good people allow me to take you on this blues and southern soul ride.

I arrived at the end of the first performer on the show,Rick Lawson.I haven't seen him perform in awhile but from the reaction the crowd gave him he must have put on a decent show.I hate I didn't have the opportunity to see his entire performance so to all you Rick Lawson fans maybe I can see him perform again in the near future.

The next performer was Ecko recording artist,Ms. Jody and those of you who have been following my concert reviews have probably noticed that she has been included in several of them.She has been the busiest diva on the southern soul circuit by far.She received a nice ovation as The Ragman introduced her to the crowd.It was two guys in attendance(they look like the alcohol had gotten the best of them)that stood front and center down by the stage and they both appeared to be competing for her attention during her performance.She opened her show with "I'm Getting What I Want".She followed that with a rendition of Shirley Brown's "Too Much Candy".The crowd enjoyed "Sugar Daddy" and "Sleep With One Eye Open".She continued to thrill the crowd with "It's The Weekend" and the very popular "Your Dog,About To Kill My Cat".She closed her performance with "Big Daddy Don't You Come" and for those of you who have seen her perform this song know she brings a male fan from the crowd to join her.Well this time Ms. Jody said she was feeling freaky so she brought the two guys that were down front and the two of them were like nymphos who hadn't seen a woman in twenty years(I think you get the picture).I thought she had bit off more than she could chew but Ms. Jody was able to handle her business and give these two guys a freak dance that they will never forget.The crowd loved it and she received a big ovation as she left the stage.For all the latest news on Ms. Jody please visit www.eckorecords.com

The next performer was my homeboy David Brinston.He had just got in from North Carolina and he had his blues band from Florida with him.The crowd showed him a lot of love as he hit the stage.His band was sounding good as they started his set with Johnnie Taylor's "Still Called The Blues".His next song was "Hit & Run" and this was a nice upbeat song that got the crowd up and dancing.He kept the crowd dancing with "Work That Thang" and one of the local divas in Da Dawg Pound was doing just that as she was turning heads with her very seductive rump-shaking grown folks dance(I'll just say that there was a whole lot of shaking going on)."Let Me Hit It One More Time" was his next song and this once again had the folks getting their groove on.He slowed it down with the nice ballad"Somebody's Cutting My Cake" and I love to hear him sing this song.His voice is very unique and it has a soulful sound that isn't replicated by any other artist.He received a big ovation as he did several synchronize pelvis thrusts as the band did a pop and stop medley."Hardworking Lady" was his next song followed by the southern soul classic "Party Til The Lights Go Out".He was about to close his performance with "Two Way Love Affair" when The Ragman(mc) told him he had to end his performance due to time restraints.I don't allow myself to get upset at shows but I got mad at The Ragman this time.The fans were enjoying his performance and he only wanted to do one more song,with him making it in from North Carolina you would have thought they could have allowed him another four minutes to close his performance on his own terms but none the less David showed a lot of class and thanked the crowd and exited the stage.I really enjoyed his performance and I hope to have an opportunity to see him perform again real soon.For more news on David Brinston please visit his myspace page at www.myspace.com/davidbrinston01

The next performer was IFGAM recording artist,Lebrado.For those of you not familar with him he is the younger brother of r&b singers K-Ci & JoJo.As he was introduced,the stage area quickly became packed with female fans who all were screaming profusely as he hit the stage.He opened his performance with "Coffee" and this one was definetly for the ladies.He makes no secret about the kind of woman he perfers-hot,black and strong.His next song was "Sure Wasn't Me" and I was blown away by his vocals on this song.He gave a superb renditon that probably had our beloved Tyrone Davis and Ronnie Lovejoy looking down smiling.He paid another tribute to Tyrone Davis with "Banging The Headboards" and the women loved it as he banged and banged toward their direction.He got everyone up and steppin with "Dancin" which is a nice dance(steppin) groove.His show quickly took on a r&b vibe with his next two songs "First Lady" and "Come Back Love"."Try Me" and his new southern soul hit "Fire" kept all the women down front screaming and he allowed a few of them to join him on stage and this really set the stage on fire.He closed his performance with my personal favorite and the hit that established him as a southern soul artist,"I'm Missin You Babe" and the crowd gave him a big ovation as he exited the stage.Lebrado is truly one of my favorite newcomers.He has really matured as a performer and has also become very popular especially with the female fans.For all the latest news on Lebrado please visit his website at www.lebrado.com

The next performer on the show was Robert"Duke"Tillman.This was a much anticipated performance for me.We've been in contact the last several months and I've been trying to catch one of his shows but each time I was unable to see him perform.For those of you not familar with Robert"Duke"Tillman let me first of all say he is no newcomer to the industry.He is a former lead singer for The Drells(formerly known as Archie Bell & The Drells),he has shared the stage on venues with a who's who in the industry including The Temptations,Harold Melvin & The Bluenotes and The Manhattans just to name a few.He has collaborated with the likes of Rue Davis,Frank-O Johnson and the late Mckinely Mitchell.His soulful tenor and falsetto has put him in the same breath as Smokey Robinson and Eddie Kendricks.He received a big ovation as he was led to the stage.He opened his performance with "Coochie Whipped" and immediately he begin to showcase his abilty as a true entertainer.His body movement was pure electric and his soulful vocals came across very well as he ripped the stage and this was just his opening selection."Love Ya Tonight" is a nice song with a tempo that allowed the couples in attendance to do a swing dance.His next song was the silky ballad "I Found Love" and the couples in attendance went from swinging to slow-dancing.He was able to showcase his sugary but sweet and sexy vocals on this jam."Can't Do Without You" is another sleek soulful jam with a Jackie Wilson vibe to it.He received a thunderous ovation as he did an amazing rendition of William Bell's "I Forgot To Be Your Lover".He closed his performance with the uptempo dance groove "Drop" and the crowd again went wild.It was time to get the boogie on and boogie is what the crowd did.I was a lil disappointed because I was hoping that he would perform my personal favorite "Doggone Right".I had the opportunity to meet him right before he went on stage and just let me say that this is the coolest cat that I've ever met.When I say cool I mean "Mr. Zero Below".Right here and now I'm dubbing Robert"Duke"Tillman "THE KING OF COOL".He is'n't a blues singer at all.Duke Tillman is a soul singer cut from the same cloth as the legendary Jackie Wilson and Smokey Robinson.He is truly a gifted artist and I am looking forward to seeing him perform again very soon.For all the latest news on "THE KING OF COOL" please visit his website at www.robertduketillman.com and his myspace page at www.myspace.com/robertduketillman

The last performer on the night was T.K. Soul and it was very late and everyone was still in attendance.I've covered his show probably more than any other artist and it never gets old.Like always the stage area was packed with the ladies as he performed his classic hits "Cheating And Lying","Meet Me At The Spot Tonight","Try Me" and "It Ain't Cheating Til You Get Caught".The highlight of his performance was his "T.K. Soul Cruise Step".Everybody got a thrill out of that.T.K.Soul still remains one of the top performers in the industry.For all the latest news about "The T.K. Soul Cruise" and all other T.K. Soul news please visit his website at www.mrtksoul.com and his myspace page at www.myspace.com/tksoulmusic

In closing I would like to thank Eddie who was the promoter for this show and Duke Tillman's business manager and his PR Agent,Chestine Jackson and Diane Neal who allowed me plenty of acess to cover this show.I also would like to thank Ms. Jody,David Brinston,Lebrado,Robert"Duke"Tillman and T.K. Soul for all taking the time to meet and converse with me,your time is deeply appreciated.I want to also give a shout out to Bruce Billups(Thanks for the love man),Kenne Wayne,Melissa and The Clarksdale Diva,Roni.I had a great time at this show and I just wanted to share it with the greatest fans in the world.Take care and MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALWAYS.I'll see you down by the stage.

BIG K9

www.bigk9.net

 

TO VIEW ALL PHOTOS FROM THIS SHOW AND ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM THE BLUES AND SOUTHERN SOUL INDUSTRY,PLEASE VISIT MY WEBSITE AT www.bigk9.net  AND BLESS MY GUESTBOOK WITH YOUR PRESENCE. 

SOUTHERN SOUL BLUES ARTIST,BILL CODAY DEAD AT AGE 66

It saddens me to report that longtime southern soul blues artist,Bill Coday has passed away.He wasn't just an artist to me he was also a good friend of mine.I met Bill Coday and his lovely wife Anna about six(6) years ago at Club Ebony when he accompanied longtime friend Denise Lasalle at one of her performances.He always greeted me with a big smile and hug whenever I saw him.My prayers go out to his wife Anna and their entire family.Here is a biography of my friend Bill Coday.

BIOGRAPHY:

Soul singer Bill Coday first came to fame with the hit single "Get Your Lies Straight" during the early spring of 1971. Signed to Crajon Productions, owned by the husband and wife team of Bill and Denise Jones (who recorded under the name Denise LaSalle and scored a 1971 gold single, "Trapped by a Thing Called Love"), Coday was the perfect vehicle for LaSalle's blues-oriented R&B songs. Born May 10, 1942, in Coldwater, MS, Coday began his singing career as a teenager, performing in juke joints around Blytheville, AK, with a band that included Son Seals. In 1961, he relocated to Chicago, IL, donning the name Chicago Willie. LaSalle spotted the singer while he was performing at the Black Orchid club. She teamed him with Memphis, TN, soul music producer Willie Mitchell whom she often worked with on her releases for Detroit, MI's Westbound label and for those of other Crajon artists (the Sequins' hits "Hey Romeo" and "The Third Degree"). Mitchell went on to have hits with another Chicago singer, Syl Johnson, and gold and platinum-laced success with Al Green on Hi Records. Coday's first Crajon singles, "Sixty Minute Teaser" and "I Get High on Your Love," were regional hits. The third single, "Get Your Lies Straight," proved to be the breakthrough, going to number 14 R&B on Billboard's charts in early 1971. On the flipside was "You're Gonna Want Me." As was the custom on a fast-selling national record, the independently-distributed Crajon leased Coday's single to the much larger Galaxy label, a subsidiary of Berkeley, CA's Fantasy Records, for wider distribution. The follow-up, issued on Galaxy, the Denise LaSalle song "When You Find a Fool, Bump His Head," made it to number 48 R&B in summer 1971. There were other Galaxy singles, but none charted nationally. Coday enjoyed a regional hit on Crajon with "I'm Back to Collect" in the first half of 1973. Some of his Galaxy/Crajon releases can be found on the compilations All Night Long They Played the Blues (1992), Bad Bad Whiskey (1993) -- both from U.K. label Ace Records -- and an '80s collection of Coday's Crajon singles on Japanese label Vivid Sounds. In 1973, he signed with Epic Records and the single "I Don't Want to Play This Game" was issued. It was later included on the 1975 Epic compilation Lost Soul, reissued as a 1994 CD by Sony Legacy. In 1984, Coday began to tour with Denise LaSalle as her opening act. He began recording again after several years away from the studio. Signing with Memphis-based label Ecko Records, his first release was the appropriately titled Sneakin' Back album. The tracks "Her Love Is Good Enough to Put in Collard Greens," "I Can Move the Hoochie Coochie Man," "Doctor Thrill Good," and a remake of "Get Your Lies Straight" became favorites with blues lovers and blues-formatted radio stations. His second Ecko CD, Can't Get Enough, included "In the Room Next to the Room" and "Not a Word" with labelmate Barbara Carr. Coday's third Ecko CD, 1999's Put Me in the Mood, gave his fans more of his tasty blend of spicy, bluesy Southern soul.

MY GOOD FRIEND RONI a.k.a. "THE CLARKSDALE DIVA" FROM CLARKSDALE,MISSISSIPPI IS A BIG FAN OF THE BLUES AND SOUTHERN SOUL MUSIC.SHE SHARES WITH US HER CONCERT REVIEW FROM A RECENT BLUES SHOW HELD IN GREENVILLE,MISSISSIPPI.



"T.K. SOUL AND SWEET ANGEL CONCERT REVIEW"

Hello everyone,this is "The Clarksdale Diva" a.k.a. Roni.My good friend Big K9 ask me to share with you all the great time that I had at a blues show that I recently attended.At first I was very hesitant but how can you say no to a man that has worked so hard to take all of us die hard blues and southern soul fans to shows that we sometimes can't attend ourselves.I won't try to imitate or duplicate a Big K9 review,the one advice he did give to me was to just share with you all fans the great time that I had and to make you all feel that you were at the show.So I'll do my best to take you all there.

I was accompanied at this show by the rest of "The Clarksdale Divas",Keelah and Claudette.When we first arrived we contacted Rico Owens who was one of the promoters for tonight's show and I told him that Big K9 was unable to attend and he wanted me to do a review for tonight's show.He was so gracious to us that I was more than ever willing to write a review for this show.When we made it inside there was a nice crowd on hand.There were plenty of people sitting at tables that had been reserved,others sitting at the bar area and for those who didn't have a reserved table there were plenty of chairs lined up for tonights show.I noticed at most of the tables there was plenty of food,liquor and beer so I guess it was a BYOB affair.We had a table reserved down by the stage area so I was in a good position to cover this show.The lineup included Jessie Clay,Mississippi Slim,Sweet Angel and "The Bad Boy of Southern Soul",the one and only T.K. Soul.

We arrived late so we missed Jessie Clay's performance.Mississippi Slim was the next performer.His first song was "Haven't I Been Good To You",the one thing that I did notice was the people in attendance really love this guy or they were all just having a good time because they were making noise for him like he was the headliner.I was able to take some terrific photos as he performed this song.His next song was "Just What You Reap".One of my favorite moments was when he performed his next song "Take Your Finger Out Of It".He told some jokes during this song that were good and funny and he really had the crowd laughing.Myself and the rest of the divas were really having a great time.He song "Mississippi Boy" and everyone were up and dancing while he performed this song.His last song was "I Was Checking Out,She Was Checking In".After his performance I was able to take some photos with him and I told him I was doing a review for Big K9,he wanted me to make sure I took some photos of his socks and they were some very colorful socks.

Sweet Angel performed next.Before her performance I went over and spoke to her.I had just met her a couple of weeks ago in Memphis and I asked her did she remember me and to my surprise she said yes.I told her I was doing a review once again for Big K9 and was it ok for me to take some photos with her after her performance.She was just like her namesake,a sweet angel.I made it back to my seat as she was introduced to the audience.She told me she didn't bring her band so she was performing off tracks.She was accompanied by her husband and manager Mike Dobbins.Her first song was "Slow Roll It" and ya'll she sounded so good.Her next two songs was "Hold On" and "Oops" and I really liked the last one.Now the highlight of her performance she asked me not to mention but I read K9 reviews all the time and the guys in this industry show there freaky side and this Sweet Angel showed us hers.She performed "Another's Man Meat On My Plate" and she pulled out a big mandingo size piece of meat and this had everyone laughing.I'm sorry Sweet Angel I know you told me not to mention that but I had to tell everyone about it so they can come and see it for themselves when you do your shows and LADIES if your man had some meat like that you would be looking for him in the daytime with a flashlight.How K9 says it,LAWD HAVE MERCY!Her Last song was "Why Angel Sings The Blues" and this had the same beat as one of B.B. King's song.I didn't know she played the saxaphone but she did on this song and she played it very well.After her performance me and the divas took some photos with her.

The next performer was T.K. Soul.Before his performance we were able to go backstage and get some photos with him.He has always been one of my favorite artist.He came on stage and he was asking the crowd were they ready for the "Undisputed Bad Boy Of Southern Soul".Now everyone was coming to the stage area but I did manage to get my share of photos of him.He did say that he was going to perform a little different because he doesn't like going to the same place and doing the same routine.He performed "Cheating And Lying","Tell Me Where Jody Stay","Try Me" and "25 To Life".He begin talking about his annual cruise and he told the crowd he made up a step just for the cruise.He left the stage area and came down to the floor and told everybody to come on so he can show them how to do the "T.K. Soul Cruise Step". The women surrounded him like he was the president of the United States. I like the dance and it was simple. Even Keelah was out there doing it. When I finally stop doing the dance, I looked around, all the chairs behind me was empty and I couldn't see nothing but women on the floor and they all were loving Mr. T.K. Soul.It was late and we had to leave as he took a break from his performance.When I was backstage I told him I was taking some photos for Big K9,he said if its for K9 we need to get naked, now I see why he is "The Bad Boy Of Southern Soul".

I am so glad that I decided to do a review for this show.It was some work and I really see what K9 have to go through but I enjoyed every minute of it.Rico Owens thanks for showing us so much love.I told K9 that I was going to tell him that you really took good care of us.I really appreciate Jessie Clay,Mississippi Slim,Sweet Angel and T.K. Soul for showing me so much love so the next time you all see me I might be on Big K9's staff.Big K9 thanks for having faith in me to do this.I tried to do just like you said.I went to the show and enjoyed myself and just told everyone about it through my eyes.Your presence was definetly missed by all and you know how everyone just love to chill with Big K9 at a show.I want to say to my sistas Keelah and Claudette(The Clarksdale Divas) I had a great time with you all and you know I love you all to death.Lets continue to get our blues on.Well I hope you all enjoyed my review.I know K9 will post this review and photos on his website at www.bigk9.net.Thank you all so much.

Love,
Roni a.k.a. Clarksdale Diva

PLEASE VISIT RONI'S MYSPACE PAGE AT www.myspace.com/155149452   AND IF YOU ARE A FAN OF THE BLUES AND SOUTHERN SOUL MUSIC PLEASE SEND HER A FRIEND INVITE.

 

"WALTER WAITERS ROCKS THE DO DROP INN"

Hello BLUES AND SOUTHERN SOUL FANS,Memorial Day weekend has always been one of my favorite times of the year.There are always a lot of activities going on,high school and college graduations, class reunions,family reunions,small towns celebrating their homecomings,weddings and just about any other activity you can imagine and Memorial Day weekend is usually the time of the year for such activities.America pays tribute to their troops on this day and myself being a veteran of the U.S. Navy(Operation Desert Storm Veteran)I always thank God that I was able to serve and return home to my love ones safely.

I had the opportunity to see my good friend Walter Waiters make his Mississippi debut a couple of years ago in Gulfport,Mississippi.I had originally suppose to go to what was then billed one of the biggest annual blues shows in Huntsville,Alabama(The Down Home Blues Festival) but I promised Walter I would come to Gulfport and I kept my word and made the trip to Gulfport.Walter made his Mississippi Delta debut only a couple of months ago and I was thrilled to be able to watch him perform in my very own backyard.I never imagined he would be returning back to the Delta so soon.

I was suppose to be in Memphis this Memorial Day weekend and when Walter told me about his show my heart went south because I had already made plans for this entire weekend.I remember when I first met Walter about five(5) years ago I told him that he could always count on me being there for him and with him making the trip all the way from Oklahoma to perform again in my neck of the woods I made my decision to stay and support my friend.This won't be like one of my typical long drawn out reviews because I had a long day at work and I had to leave for Memphis early the following morning.

"THE DO DROP INN" once again played host to this TEXAS BLUES MAN whom I dubbed "THE NEXT BIG THING".It wasn't a very large crowd on hand but Walter has always told me wheter he's at a festival of thousands or in a club with only five people that he would always let it do what it do.Though the crowd was small there were plenty of familar faces on hand.Several of my female co-workers(damn they were looking good) were on hand to show Walter some love and to be honest I didn't even know a couple of them were blues fans.Also on hand were Regina,Regina's mom and Crystal who all made the trip from Memphis. "THE CLARKSDALE DIVAS",Claudette Nawls and Veronica McDowell a.k.a. Roni were also in the house.

Walter opened his performance by thanking the people in attendance for coming out and he promised that we would all have a good time.He had everyone up and dancing on "Creeping" and "Careful Woman".As always Rufus Thomas "Walking The Dog" was the highlight of his performance as Walter allowed a few of the fans in attendace to walk with him.Most notably was two guys(I didn't get there names)who impressed Walter so much he changed gears and simply begin to entertain the women in attendance and together the three of them put on a display of grown folks dancing that would have been rated XXX at any theater and the females in attendance loved every minute of it.He was joined on the mic by one of his now infamous dancers as they performed Ray Charles "The Night Time Is The Right Time" and it was a very good rendition.He paid tribute to his daughter Kaylah with "Kalah's Boogie" and "I Bounce Back".He showcased his terrific vocals on "Don't Scratch My Back","Just Me","Free Agent" and "Crazy Smooth Sexy',I've always loved his laid back soulful delivery on this jam.He continued to display his vocal depth as he did a excellent rendition of The Tempmtations "I Wish It Would Rain".He paid homeage to The Do Drop Inn with "Laid Back Kind Of Place".

I've always stated that Walter Waiters is a BLUES MAN FIRST.He begin to take us home as he begin his blues set medley.He opened up with my personal favorite "Married Man's Blues" and this was the first time that I saw him perform this song.He took me home with some deep down home tradional blues,"Rock Me Baby" and "Down Home Blues" put everyone in a hand-clapping and foot-stomping mood.His masterful skills on "LUCY"(his keyboard)were being displayed as this Texas Blues man did his thing.In the middle of one of his selections my lil brother began to get a little explicit.Every show that I attend now the male artist display tounges and lil Walter was no different as he begin to lick Lucy up and down.I blame Marvin Sease for getting this s**t started.Not to be ignored was the sounds coming from this keyboard.The sounds of B.B. King,Buddy Guy and the late great Albert King filled the room.He continued his blues theme with Carl Sims and J.Blackfoot's "Your Man Is Home Tonight" and Bobby Blue Bland's "You Got To Hurt Before You Heal".He closed his performance with Buddy Ace's "It Don't Hurt No More".I've seen Walter's performance a few times and his maturation as an artist is incredible.His vocals and showmanship have allowed him to become a top notch entertainer.His ability to allow the crowd to be involved at his shows has definetly made him a FAN FAVORITE.To all the promoters out there please add this gifted brother to some of your upcoming shows.If you want to see and hear a real Blues Man then Walter Waiters is definetly "THE MAN".To get all the latest news and information on Walter Waiters please visit his website at www.walterwaiters.com and on his myspace page at www.myspace.com/walterwaiters

In closing I would like to thank Jacquelyn and her entire crew at THE DO DROP INN for making it possible for us to see Walter perform again and in a very short time period.I want to give a shout out to all my co-workers in attendance and its too many to name and I sure didn't want to leave any of you out,it was so good to see you all there getting your blues on.To Regina,her mom and Crystal sorry you got there late but better late than never for real and to "The Clarksdale Divas",Claudette and Roni" I really enjoyed getting my blues on with you all,we must do it again real soon.I had a great time at this show and I just wanted to share it with the greatest fans in the world.Take care and MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALWAYS.I'll see you down by the stage.

BIG K9
www.bigk9.net

TO VIEW ALL PHOTOS FROM THIS SHOW AND ALL THE LATEST BLUES AND SOUTHERN SOUL NEWS, PLEASE VISIT MY WEBSITE AT www.bigk9.net AND BLESS MY GUESTBOOK WITH YOUR PRESENCE.

"THE SCAT CAT TOUR"


Hello blues and southern soul fans,my 2008 blues and southern soul ride continues in the mid-south area.Memphis,Tennessee is the place to be this time of the year.Throughout the month of May the city celebrates "MEMPHIS IN MAY" and during this period there are thousands of spectators that embark on the city to enjoy all the festivities that take place,especially in the downtown area and on "THE LEGENDARY BEALE STREET" where such icons as B.B. King,Bobby Blue Bland,Rufus Thomas and countless others really got their big breaks in the music industry.Growing up in a small rural area I always thought of Memphis as being the "Big City" and I know its funny to some of you all who hail from large cities but for this old country boy this was really an extraordinary place for me to visit.Well I was in the big city to catch a leg of "THE SCAT CAT TOUR" that featured some new and upcoming artist as well as an old familar face.The lineup for this show included Rick E Bluez,Jewel Jones,Mr. Sam,Ms. Jody and Billy Soul Bonds.The Whitehaven Celebration Complex played host to this blues and southern soul gathering.I've attended a few shows here with more established artist and for whatever reasons it was never a packed house but when I arrived for tonights show I was very suprised to see the number of folks on hand.There were plenty of familar faces in attendance,my good friends from WDIA,Jackie Ward,Juanita Burton and the mc for tonights show Steve Ladd were in the house.Also on hand were recording artist Toni Greene and Sweet Angel who was accompanied by her husband..manager Mike Dobbins.Another familar face was my good friend "The Clarksdale Diva",Roni and the hardest working merchandise vendor in the industry my man Willard Frederick who appears to be at all the blues shows(I envy you man).The crowd was very relaxed and I must admit it was an older crowd so it wasn't the usual young girls dropping it like its hot theme going on tonight.There were a couple of familar happenings going on though,the kitchen had the hot wings filling the air for real and these were some of the biggest hot wings that I've ever seen(look like the wings from a chicken on steroids) and there was also plenty of cold bud light being served up at the bar so with the stage set good people sit back and allow me to take you on this blues and southern soul ride.

The first performer of the night was Houston native,Rick E Bluez who is a new comer to the industry.I was familar with his music having seen him featured on Funky Larry's "Soul And Blues Report" and "The Chittlin Circuit Website".He didn't have a band with him and its sometimes difficult for an artist when they have to sing tracks but the crowd showed him some love as Steve Ladd brought him on to the stage.He opened up his performance with "Thats Why I still Love You" and he must have had a couple of fans on hand because he got a nice ovation from some women down by the stage area as he begin to perform this track.Anytime I see an artist for the first time I try to see how much of a stage presence the artist has and he seemed to be quite comfortable as he did his thing.His next song was "I want To Love You" and this was a nice sleek ballad that kept the crowd interested.His next song "Runnin Your Mouth" had a good southern soul theme to it and it should garner him some major airplay on southern soul radio.His next song was the one I enjoyed the most,"Angel" is a nice slow jam and although he was singing tracks his vocals came across very nice on this song.He closed his performance with an uptempo booty shaking track which had the namesake "Shake".He left the stage area and was sandwiched right in the middle of two women who had the appearance of two souls from the 70's(afro and clothes to match) as they begin to get their shake on.Rick E Bluez definetly has the tools to be a sucessful artist in this industry.His vocals were good and he did have a decent stage presence.Leaving the stage area and grinding with the ladies will always go over well with a crowd. His performance was a good one but I would love to see him perform with a live band.To hear the sounds of Rick E Bluez please go to www.chittlincircuit.com and check him out on their playlist.I hope to have some updated information for you all in the near future.

The next performer of the night was Memphis native and Q.T. recording artist,Jewel J and she is truly a favorite for all the faithful WDIA(1070 Memphis)listeners.I had the opportunity to see her perform last year at the second stop on the WDIA juke joint tour.Many of you may remember her as a background singer for Shirley Brown and she has also shared the stage with J.Blackfoot and Ann Hines.She opened her performance with "I Need Someone" and she got a nice hometown ovation as she and her backup singers moved to the beat with their short waist high dresses(not that I notice they were short).Her next song was "I Ain't Jealous" and she followed that up with a rendition of Johnnie Taylor's "Wall To Wall" and this got some of the crowd up on their feet.She closed her performance with her biggest hit to date,"Thats My Shugga Daddy" and she received her biggest ovation on the night.This song has been very popular on the southern soul airways.Jewel J is a diva bringing a new southern soul flavor to the blues.For all the latest news on Jewel J please visit www.eckorecords.com

The next performer on the night was my man Sam Fallie now better known as "MR. SAM".I'm no stranger to Mr. Sam he has been a songwriter and backup vocalist for the Bar-Kays,Archie Love,Lacee and J. Blackfoot just to name a few.He has been a man in the shadows for a lot of years.His manager,the lovely Jazzii Anderson and Mr. Sam have been trying to get me to come and see his shows but due to my work schedule I was never able to make it to any of his performances.I did have the opportunity to see him perform on the third stop of last years WDIA juke joint tour.It was raining on that day and I really didn't get to see the real "MR. SAM" so I was really looking forward to seeing this performance.As he was introduced by Steve Ladd his band was blowing up the stage.The sound was truly amazing.These brothers were bringing some real muscle to their instruments(2008 version of the funk brothers)and out came Mr. Sam backup singers and dancers and they got the relaxed crowd hype as hell.I know this was a blues and southern soul party but Mr. Sam hit the stage with a bolt of thunder and he told the crowd to get up out their seats and make some noise.He opened up his performance with a rendition of Bobby Brown's "My Perogative" and he and his dancers were tearing up the stage with their sychronized dance moves.Just like so many of the boy bands today Mr. Sam and his dancers have put a lot of work and energy into their dance routine and it was paying off tonight.The crowd was on their feet and really feeling Mr. Sam and this was just his opening song.He and his backup singers kept the dance party going with "All Night Party".When I was young I remember Morris Day and The Time sliding on stage and I thought to myself that this was the magic of television and they made the stage move because there was no way these guys could all slide together in unity.Damn was I wrong.Like a scene from Purple Rain,Mr. Sam and his crew performed that routine better than Morris Day and The Time.I jumped to my feet when I saw them do this time after time and they made it look so easy.I'm telling you this was the best dance routine I've seen thus far at any show that I have attended and I have attended plenty of shows.You all have to excuse me I'm replaying it in my mind right now as I write this review and all I can say is GOT DAMNN,GOT DAMN!His next song was "I'm Looking For Love" and just like a seasoned performer he begin to ad-lib with the crowd and the women in attendance loved it.For his next song he asked the crowd could he go back to the old school as he did a rendition of Tyrone Davis,"Can I Change My Mind" and he sounded just like "The Chicago Wonder Boy" and you know with an older crowd this received a big ovation as he left the stage area and walked through the crowd.His next song was the one that truly established him as a solo artist,"12 STEPS FOR CHEATERS" and this is one song that has a crossover vibe to it.The intro that he and his backup singers do leading into the song had the crowd laughing and loving it.The way he performed this song would remind you of a R.Kelly performance and I mean that.Its a shame that this song doesn't have more of a crossover appeal attached with it.Before he concluded his performance he asked me, "Could he do one more song?"I told him,"Man do the damn thing".He closed his performance with a new single that is actually a duet with Floyd Taylor and its titled "Voicemail" and he gave the crowd a thrill with this cut.I personally guanrantee that Mr. Sam and Floyd Taylor have a bona fide smash hit on their hand.Truly amazing is all I can say about Mr. Sam's performance.I had no idea that I was going to see such a terrifc performance as the one did by Mr. Sam.I was truly blown away.It seems like every now and then I discover southern soul's best kept secret but I've never seen one that has made the impression on me like Mr. Sam and I'm not exaggerating either.I am so glad to see this brother step out of the shadows and emerge as a strong frontman.Mr. Sam is the total package.He has a strong stage presence,he is blessed with terrific vocals and great dancing skills.Promoters please add Mr. Sam to your next show.I promise you that you won't be sorry.You can even contact me and thank me for sending him your way.I know he will be very busy on the Memphis scene especially with so many WDIA personalities in the house but I expect to see and hear more about him throughout the southern soul industry.Mr. Sam welcome to my Honorary Dawg Pound.Your membership has been solidifed my friend.To get all the latest news and hear some of this talented artist music please visit his myspace page at www.myspace.com/jeamrsam
DAMN GOOD PERFORMANCE!

Its hard to follow an act like the one that just finished but the next performer is very capable of entertaining a crowd.Ms. Jody is a newcomer to the industry having been around for only a couple of years but she was like one of the veteran acts on this show.I just saw her perform a week ago and now I was getting an opportunity to see her perform again.There was something new to her performance this week,my friend Tammie a.k.a. MZ TINK from myspace was now a backup singer for Ms. Jody,oh what a difference a week makes.She opened her performance with Peggy Scott Adams "I'm Getting What I Want" and this was well received by the crowd.I wanted to see how my girl Mz. Tink was going to do and to my suprise she looked quite comfortable up on stage.Her next song was a rendition of Shirley Brown's"Too Much Candy".She had the women in attendace feeling her next song,"I'll Never Take A day Off" as she told the crowd that she would do whatever it takes to satisfy her man and like so many of the male artist do she displayed her tongue and damn I can surely tell you how many licks it takes for her to get to the center of a tootsie roll pop.Her next song was from her debut cd, "Sugar Daddy" and and she begin to use some explicit language.She can talk s**t just like Denise Lasalle.Shirley Brown must have a big influence on her as she did a rendition of "Sleep With One Eye Open".Her next song allowed Mz. Tink to show her lil freaky side as she shook a tailfeather to "It's The Weekend" and Ms. Jody wasn't to be outdone as she slid the microphone stand between her legs and begin to simulate,well I think you get the rest of the picture."You Dog Is About To Kill My Cat" received a big ovation from the crowd.She closed her performance with "Big Daddy Don't You Come" and this routine has become quite popular in her performance.She brought a gentleman from the crowd on stage and she was able to get her groove on as she gave him a thrill to remember. She received a nice ovation after her performance.For all the latest MS. Jody news please visit www.eckorecords.com

Unfortunately it was very late and I had to leave the show before I got an opportunity to see Billy Soul Bonds.I did talk with him brifly earlier during the show.One thing that I did notice was T.K. Soul's former bass player,Anthony is now playing for Billy Soul Bonds(I have to get the scoop on that one)."The Clarksdale Diva",Roni stayed for his performance and she informed me that he did do another vintage performance with of course "Scat Cat Here Kitty,Kitty" being the highlight of his performance.

In closing I want to say that I've never reported that one artist out performed another artist but I have to admit on this night that Mr. Sam's performance really stood out and this is NO DISRESPECT to all the other performers who truly provided us all with a good show.I want to thank Rick E Bluez and his manager,Jewel J and her band,Mr. Sam and his lovely manager Jazzii Anderson,Ms. Jody and Billy Soul Bonds for taking the time to meet and converse with me.I really appreciate the time these artist give me to help me be able to provide such in depth reviews for all the fans of this genre of music.I would like to give shout outs to my friends from Wdia,Jackie Ward,Juanita Burton and Steve Ladd.I also would like to give a shout out to Toni Greene,Swet Angel,Mike Dobbins,Willard Frederick,Mz Tink and Roni.I really enjoyed you all at this show.I had a great time at this show and I just wanted to share it with the greatest fans in the world.Take care and MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALWAYS.I'll see you down by the stage.

BIG K9

www.bigk9.net

 

TO VIEW ALL PHOTOS FROM THIS SHOW AND ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM THE BLUES AND SOUTHERN SOUL INDUSTRY,PLEASE VISIT MY WEBSITE AT www.bigk9.net AND BLESS MY GUESTBOOK WITH YOUR PRESENCE.

"WALTER WAITERS RETURNS TO THE MISSISSIPPI DELTA"

GET READY MISSISSIPPI DELTA.BLUES AND SOUTHERN SOUL ARTIST WALTER WAITERS WILL BE RETURNING BACK TO THE MISSISSIPPI DELTA  MAY 23,2008 AT THE DO DROP INN IN SHELBY,MISSISSIPPI.IF THE LAST NAME SOUNDS FAMILAR HE IS THE COUSIN OF SOUTHERN SOUL ICON MEL WAITERS BUT MAKE NO MISTAKE ABOUT IT WALTER HAS ESTABLISHED HIMSELF AS A RISING STAR IN THE SOUTHERN SOUL INDUSTRY.HE WAS VOTED 2006 BEST NEW MALE ARTIST BY THE BLUES AND SOUL AWARDS.HE HAS SHARED THE STAGE WITH THE LIKES OF MEL WAITERS,O.B. BUCHANA,BETTY PADGETT,KENNE WAYNE,JEFF FLOYD AND T.K. SOUL JUST TO NAME A FEW AND NOW HE IS BRINGING HIS TALENT BACK TO THE MISSISSIPPI DELTA.IF YOU ARE IN THE DELTA AND THE SURROUNDING AREA PLEASE MAKE PLANS TO ATTEND. I'LL SEE YOU DOWN BY THE STAGE.

DATE: MAY 23,2008

PLACE: DO DROP INN
SHELBY,MISSISSIPPI

TIME: DOORS OPEN AT 8:00 PM
SHOW STARTS AT 9:00 PM UNTIL

COST: ADVANCE TICKETS $10.00
AT THE DOOR: $12.00

FOR TICKET INFORMATION CALL (662) 719-3110 AND VISIT WALTER WAITERS WEBSITE AT www.walterwaiters.com

               "TOO SWEET'S PRE-MOTHERS DAY BLUES FEST"

Hello BLUES and SOUTHERN SOUL fans,my 2008 BLUES AND SOUTHERN SOUL RIDE continues in one of my favorite places.Vicksburg,Mississippi holds a lot of historic treasures but it is slowly becoming a hotbed for the blues and southern soul industry,thanks to my man Too Sweet and his entire production staff.I've made several trips to the city on the River(Mississippi River) to get my blues on and each time the shows get bigger and better."TOO SWEET'S PRE-MOTHERS DAY BLUES FEST" was the theme  and the Vicksburg Auditorium was the host for this blues and southern soul gathering.The lineup for this awesome show was special guest Ricky White, Ms. Jody,Nellie "Tiger" Travis,J. Blackfoot and Sir Charles.

The atmosphere was a very festive one.The sounds of Betty Padgett,Denise Lasalle,T.K. Soul,Jeff Floyd,Mel Waiters and other southern soul recording artists were being played by the local dj and this had everyone up and dancing and ready to get their blues on.The smell of bar-b-que and fried fish filled the air courtesy of local vendor LD and his catering staff,the smell of this southern cusine got the best of me and I had to get me a fish plate.While I was sampling my fish I saw several familar faces in the house,their was my man Willard Frederick(the hardest working merchandise man at any show),Sweet Mama and Yakan(Sir Charles VIP all-stars),LeVonne Sampson,Mz. Tink  and Roni(Clarksdale Diva).Also in the house was "THE GENTLE GIANT OF SOUTHERN SOUL",O.B. Buchana who by the way finished the rest of my fish plate.It was a byob affair so me and O.B. began to let it do what it do.So with a full house on hand,good food and plenty of cold bud light and me and "The Gentle Giant Of Southern Soul" chilling in Da Dawg Pound good people allow me to take you on this blues and southern soul ride.

The first performer of the night wasn't part of the original lineup but Too Sweet being the kind-hearted person that he is allowed special guest Ricky White to perform a couple of tracks from his new an upcoming cd.I've had the opportunity to see Ricky perform a couple of times and I was glad to have the opportunity to see him perform again.He opened his performance with "So Good To Me" which is an ode to the late Tyrone Davis.His next song was "I'll Still Love You" and this cut is going to get much airplay on southern soul radio stations.He paid a special tribute to all the moms who were attendance as he passed out long stemmed red roses to several lovely women who came down front to receive them(nice gesture).He was only suppose to perform two tracks but the fans wanted to see more of him so he closed his performance with "Ride My Pony" which several of the women down front look like they were ready to do.Fans please look for his new cd in the upcoming weeks.After his performance he joined me and O.B. in Da Dawg Pound.

The next performer was Ecko recording artist,Ms. Jody.She opened her performance with Peggy Scott Adams "I'm Getting What I Want" and this was well received by the crowd.Her next song was a rendition of Shirley Brown's"Too Much Candy" and I was impressed with her vocals on this cut.Can't no one sing a Shirley Brown song like Shirley Brown but anytime fans can hear one of her songs you know that there will be some love shown.She kept her Shirley Brown theme going with her next selection "I've Got To Sleep With One Eye Open".Her next song was from her debut cd, "Sugar Daddy" and  and she begin to get a lil bit more comfortable with her performance as she ad-lib with some of the fellas in the crowd."You Dog Is About To Kill My Cat" had the crowd singing and laughing.She closed her performance with "Big Daddy Don't You Come" and she was joined on stage by a male fan in attendance and she sat him in a chair and asked him could he handle a real woman?She sat down on this poor guy and begin to work it grown folk style and the poor guy never had a chance.She received a nice ovation after her performance.For all the latest MS. Jody news please visit www.eckorecords.com

The next performer on the night was my sexy homegirl(we're from the same hometown),Nellie "Tiger" Travis.I saw her perform for the very first time earlier this year and I was just thrilled to have the opportunity to see her perform again so soon.Vicksburg must be familar with her because she received a huge ovation as she walked out on stage.With a sexy and glittery outfit that rivaled that of our beloved Jackie Neal she captured the heart of all the fellas who were in attendance.I just love the divas of this genre of music.She opened her performance with her smash hit "You Gone Make Me Cheat" and she got everyone up on their feet.The ladies down front were singing and dancing like it was a female revolution going on in Vicksburg.Damn she had the crowd amped on this song.Her next song was "Baby Mama Drama" and again the ladies were harmonizing perfectly with this sexy southern soul diva.She continued her female independency with "Super Woman" and she was able to showcase her terrific vocals.This song was truly a moving testimony for all the women in attendance as they raised their hands in unity as she proclaimed the she was only human.She gave the crowd a brief acapella version of her new smash hit "I'm Gonna Slap Your Weave Out" and the crowd loved it. She closed her performance with her smash club hit "If I Back It Up" and immediately the Vicksburg auditorium turned into a dance party as Nellie and all the women in attendance began to shake their tail-feathers(lets just say that there was a whole lot of booty shaking going on).Nellie Travis has arrived fans,she is a phenomenal southern soul diva.She blends the sounds of Tina Turner,Gladys Knight,Mavis Staples and Patti Labelle all rolled up in one.Her show is a must see.For more information on Nellie"Tiger"Travis including bio,photos,upcoming shows and cd release dates please visit her website at www.nellietravis.com.

The next performer of the night was The Legendary J.Blackfoot.He was well received as he walked out on stage accompanied by The Queen,Ann Hines.He opened his performance with "Just Got Paid" and this uptempo tune had everyone up and dancing.He slowed the tempo down with one of my personal favorites "After The Tone" and it sounded oh so sweet.His live version of this song in my opinion is better than the cd version.He was joined on his next song by his backup singer as they gave an energetic version of "Same Old Woman".The place erupted on his next song when Sir Charles walked out on stage to join him on their smash hit "I'm Just A Fool Part 2".Their chemistry together was dynamic,they had the women screaming as they performed this jam.To see the two of them together on stage will  be a memory that I will always cherish.His next song was another duet but this time he was joined by Ann Hines,as they performed their classic duet "Two Different People".I saw them perform this song earlier in the year for the very first time and just like before I loved every minute of this one.It was like watching the legendary Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell perform as they laughed,shrugged,tucked and tease doing the entire song.His next song was "Your Man Is Home Tonight" and he was joined on stage by "The Gentle Giant Of Southern Soul" O.B. Buchana and just like Sir Charles before him the place erupted when O.B. hit the stage and he wouldn't disappoint as the two of them brought the house down.Damn I love this southern soul s**t.His next song was the one that established him as a solo artist following years as the lead singer of The Soul Children,"Taxi" received an enormous ovation as J.Blackfoot continued to do his thing.He closed his performance with a tribute to Tyrone Davis as he did a superb rendition of "Turn Back The Hands Of Time" and once again the crowd went wild.The living legend continues to give the fans their money worth and then some.I didn't think he could get any better but with each performance he gets better all the time.DAMN GOOD SHOW!

The last performer of the night was "THE KING OF SOUTHERN SOUL",Sir Charles Jones.It was late(about 1:30 am)and the Vicksburg Auditorium was still packed.Its simply amazing to me that no one had left the show,thats big time ya'll.He received a thunderous ovation as he hit the stage.He opened up his performance with "Friday" and the ladies begin to make some serious noise as they packed the stage area.He peformed a medley of three of his classic hits "Natural Woman","Just Like Fire" and "Better Or Worse" and he had the women screaming.The highlight of his performance was when he asked O.B. Buchana to come join him on his next song,"Slow Roll It".The two them belted out their own rendition of this southern soul classic but they were just getting started as they begin to do a synchronized dance routine which consisted of several hip thrusting, bone it like you own it,I'll lick it before I stick it, and I'll stand up in it all night long(grown folks stuff ya'll) and they blew the roof off the auditorium.I think it was great that Sir Charles allowed "The Gentle Giant Of Southern Soul" to be a part of his performance even though he wasn't on tonight's show.The fans were very appreciative.He closed his performance with "Is There Anybody Lonely" and suddenly the house became a dance floor for everyone.His soulful voice sounded so good as he closed his performance.My man Omar Cunningham has the best live vocals,my friend T.K. Soul is the best showman but when it comes to charisma there is none better than Sir Charles.He is a terrific singer and dancer with a strong stage presence.His cds have been far and few the last couple of years but his popularity,especially with the ladies still remains among the best in the industry.I was glad to have the opportunity to see him perform again.I've heard talk about him not conversing with the fans or media anymore and I won't to put that to rest.After the show he greeted  fans,took photos and signed autographs,I was able to talk to him as we took several photos together.We agreed to stay in touch so now I'll be able to update you fans regularly about news from "The King Of Southern Soul".AWESOME PERFORMANCE!

 

In closing I want to thank Too Sweet Productions for allowing me to cover this show.You and your entire staff should be commended for putting together such an awesome show for the fans of this genre of music.Fans please continue to support Too Sweet and other promoters who work so hard to provide us an opportunity to see and hear some of today's biggest blues and southern soul artists.I want to thank Ricky White,Ms. Jody,Nellie "Tiger" Travis,J.Blackfoot and Sir Charles for taking the time to converse with me at this show.I know your time is limited but I am very appreciative.I want to give a shout out to Willard Frederick,Sweet Mama,Yankan,Mz. Tink and Roni(Clarksdale diva).I would like to give a special shout out to "The Gentle Giant Of Southern Soul",O.B. I had a blast kicking it with you at this show.You are always welcome to join me in Da Dawg Pound.I had a great time at this show and I just wanted to share it with the greatest fans in the world.Take care and MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALWAYS.I'll see you down by the stage.

BIG K9

www.bigk9.net

TO VIEW ALL PHOTOS FROM THIS SHOW AND OTHER BLUES AND SOUTHERN SOUL NEWS PLEASE VISIT MY WEBSITE AT www.bigk9.net  AND BLESS MY GUESTBOOK WITH YOUR PRESENCE.

 

 

"WALTER WAITERS MISSISSIPPI DELTA DEBUT"

Hello Blues and Southern Soul fans.Its not often that a good BLUES & SOUTHERN SOUL GATHERING takes place in your own backyard but recently I was very fortunate to attend one that was literally in my own backyard.Independent Blues recording artist,Walter Waiters performed lived at "THE DO DROP INN" in Shelby,Mississippi.Shelby is my birthplace and it has a deep rooted history of blues.Many recording artist have performed at different venues in Shelby including Willie Clayton,Denise Lasalle,Marvin Sease,Little Milton,Ronnie Lovejoy,Tyrone Davis and Buddy Ace to name just a few.The Do Drop Inn is truly one of the last authentic Mississippi Delta juke joints and it has played host to some of the before mentioned blues artist.For me the Do Drop Inn brings back some good memories,I was a young teen when I first became familar with this juke joint.I use to chop cotton(yes I’m a real country boy) around the Shelby area and we got paid at the end of each day in Shelby and the Do Drop Inn was in walking distance.Me and some of my friends would stop by and get some good southern soul food and a couple of cold beers(sorry mom but I started drinking early).I remember the sounds of B.B. King and Bobby Blue Bland playing loud on the juke box,the smell of fried fish and chicken wings filled the air and all the local patrons on the dance floor doing some serious grown folks dancing can you say the "BO-HAWG GRIND".You didn’t need to dress up to come to this juke joint I remember tractor drivers pulling up on their tractors going straight inside this juke joint.This was a simpler and better time in my life and I truly miss the good old days.

Fast forward some twenty plus years and I have to be honest,I didn’t even know the Do Drop Inn was still operative until my good friend Walter Waiters told me he was going to be performing there.One of my friends from myspace,Jacquelyn runs the Do Drop Inn and she is the one who made all this possible.I was very excited because I’ve long for the day to see him perform in my area.Its not often that my fiance’,Sylvia Burks(MZ. K9) join me at a show but after meeting Walter she said she just had to come check him out and she was joined by her co-worker Sharon and some of Sharon family members.I was joined on this night by original Dawg Pound members Doyle Parris a.k.a Dr. Feel-Good,Carnez Parris a.k.a Sir Cap and Tavious Haywood.There were other familar faces in the house,Bluz Queen and the rest of "The Kitty Kitty Club" were posted down front and some of my friends,Crystal,Regina and her mom from myspace were also in the house.It wasn’t a large crowd on hand but like Walter’s cousin Mel Waiters would say the smaller the club the bigger the party.So with my gin and juice on hand chased with some cold Bud Light good people let me take you on this BLUES RIDE.

There was no mc for tonights show so Walter ask me would I bring him to the stage?How could I say no to my friend?So now add mc to Big K9’s resume’(Lol!).But serious it was a honor for me to introduce him to the Mississippi Delta,our friendship has spanned about five(5) years now.I remember when he only played the midwest area(Oklahoma & Texas mostly) and now he is a nationally and internationally known recording artist playing in the heart of the Mississippi Delta.He was voted the 2006 BEST NEW MALE ARTIST by THE BLUES CRITIC BLUES AND SOUTHERN SOUL AWARDS and I dubbed him "THE NEXT BIG THING".He received a big ovation as I brought him to the stage.He opened up his performance with a classic southern soul hit covered by Carl Sims and J. Blackfoot,"You Man Is Home Tonight" was the perfect song to kick off his show because it was mainly women in attendance and they all seem to want to take Walter home with them.I’ve always been impressed with his vocal range but he even suprised me with his depth on his next song,"I Wish It Would Rain" and this blues man delivered a soulful rendition that did The Temptations justice.His next song was a rendition of Rufus Thomas "Walking The Dog" and I’ve seen him perform this song a few times and its always a real show-stopper and it would be no different on this night as he left his keyboard,Lucy and got front and center and began to do his very popular version.Every camera in the house was flashing as he thrilled the ladies in attendance and MZ. K9’s co-worker Sharon could take it no more as she left her seat and joined him on stage and was able to go one on one with Walter as he walked the dog and the crowd loved it.He really got the party crunk as he began to perform a few of his hit singles,"Don’t Scratch My Back" allowed me and Regina(myspace friend) to cut a rug together and "Crazy Smooth Sexy" allowed Walter to showcase his terrifc vocals.I’ve always enjoyed his laid back soulful delivery on this song."Creeping" and "Careful Woman" kept the dance party going led by my girl Regina and The Kitty Kitty Club."Laid Back Kind Of Place" was the right song to describe The Do Drop Inn as MZ. K9 and the rest of the fans in attendance were really enjoying themselves.

Another highlight of the night that I had to mention was local patron Mrs. Gladys who joined Walter on stage for a couple of songs including Ray Charles and Margie Hendricks "The Night Time" and she gave a gut wrenching version that brought everyone to their feet.She also performed "Rock Me Baby" and a hellified version of "Down Home Blues" that sounded so much like Denise Lasalle’s version.Just like so many other artist I think its great that he truly allow the fans to be a part of his show.Mrs. Gladys you go girl.

The real highlight of the night for me was this "BLUES MAN" singing the blues.I’ve gotten away from the traditonal deep down home blues but on this night Walter Waiters took me back home.There were some older patrons on hand that was enjoying the show but as he began to perform his blues set they all made their way to the stage area to see this TEXAS BLUES MAN do the damn thing.My fellow Dawg Pound member Doyle Parris is old school and he loves Bobby Blue Bland and Walter began his blues set with a rendition of Bobby Blue Bland’s "You Got To Hurt Before You Heal" and it moved me so much I went grabbed MZ. K9 out of her seat and begin to slow dance to this song.Once again his vocal depth took me by suprise.He continued his Bobby Blue Bland theme with "Members Only" and he allowed everyone in attendance to join in on this cut,it was now sing a long with Walter Waiters.I’ve always said that Walter is a Blues Man first and even though his latest cd takes on more of a southern soul theme he still remains true for his love of the blues as he begin to take us home with some deep foot stomping and hand clapping down home blues.His keyboard "Lucy" had some serious issues tonight as she cranked out some mean guitar licks that would make Buddy Guy,B.B. King and Albert King proud,she displayed some cool soul serenades that would make King Curtis smile and she blew some funky sounds that could make the Memphis Horns cry but Walter has learned that the women for this genre of music love to see an artist freaky side.Every show that I attend now the male artist display their candy lickers(tongue for all the slow people) and I guess its a good thing because all the females came front and center with cameras in hand and began to capture Walter licking Lucy up and down(Yes MZ. K9 I saw you looking).To close his performance he paid tribute to his mentor The Silver Fox,Buddy Ace with a soulful rendition of "It Don’t Hurt No More" as I took the mic and thanked everyone for coming out to support Walter the crowd wasn’t having it.They wanted more and he wouldn’t let them down.He closed his show with a bang as he cranked out Little Milton’s "The Blues Is Alright’.I’ve seen Walter’s performance a few times and his maturation as an artist is incredible.His vocals and showmanship have allowed him to become a top notch entertainer.His ability to allow the crowd to be involved at his shows will continue to allow him to be a crowd favorite.This was the best Walter Waiters performance that I’ve ever seen.To all the promoters out there please add this gifted brother to some of your upcoming shows.I put my personal stamp of approval on this one.To get all the latest news and information on Walter Waiters please visit his website at www.walterwaiters.com and on his myspace page at www.myspace.com/walterwaiters

This show will always be a memorable one for me.Hours before the show Walter and I were able to spend some time together.He wanted to see some of the Mississippi Delta and I explained to him that this was a rural area and it wasn’t much to see but he still wanted to get out and see how we country folks live.He said much of the people and the area was like Oklahoma but when he saw a guy driving a car and pulling a lawn mower down a main street he said he knew he was in the country as a matter of fact we were in Shelby.He also spent time in my home and got to meet my daughters who by the way enjoy Walter’s music.

I want to give a shout out to Jacquelyn and the crew from the Do Drop Inn,thanks for all your hospitality.I also want to give a shout out to Crystal,Regina,Sharon(MZ. K( co-worker) and The Kitty Kitty Club.To my fellow Dawg Pound members I truly enjoyed you all again,lets continue to get our blues on.MZ. K9 I truly enjoyed you on this night.I’m glad that you were able to experience what I love to do so much. Good people I had a great time and like always I wanted to share it with you the greatest fans in the world.Take care and MAY GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU.

BIG K9
www.bigk9.net

TO VIEW ALL PHOTOS FROM THIS SHOW AND OTHER BLUES AND SOUTHERN SOUL NEWS PLEASE VISIT MY WEBSITE AT www.bigk9.net  AND BLESS MY GUESTBOOK WITH YOUR PRESENCE.

"2008 MILLENNIUM BLUES SHOW"

Hello Blues and Southern Soul fans my 2008 Blues and Southern Soul ride continues in the heart of the Mississippi Delta.I recently attended "The 2008 Millennium Blues Show" in Greenwood,Mississippi.The Leflore County Civic Center was the venue for this blues and southern soul gathering.Cyerio Hughes(WGNL radio personality)was the mc for this show.The lineup included Vick Allen,Omar Cunningham,J.Blackfoot,Clarence Carter & Denise Lasalle.This is an annual event that always draws a big crowd and on this night it would be no different.The civic center was jammed packed and everyone in attendance were ready to get their BLUES on.The sounds of Carl Marshall,Sir Charles,T.K. Soul,O.B. Buchana,Johnnie Taylor and Tyrone Davis had the crowd up singing and dancing as they waited for the show to begin.I was joined on this night in Da Dawg Pound by some of my original Dawg Pound members, Carnez Parris(Sir Cap)and Timothy Edmonds(Mane).Also on hand were "DA CLARKSDALE DIVAS",Roni,Claudette,Keelah and Latriest.It was a byob affair so with my gin and juice on hand and chased with some cold Bud Light good people let me take you on this Blues and Southern Soul ride.

The first performer on the night was my man Vick Allen.He might be new to some of you fans but Vick has been around the industry for a long time.Some of you might remember him from his years with the grammy award winning gospel group "The Canton Spirituals" but he is now becoming one of the most popular soul singers in the southern soul industry.I've seen his performance a few times and I always look forward to seeing him perform.The packed house gave him a nice ovation as he was introduced.The previous times I saw him perform he was playing tracks but now he had his band(all from Greenwood,Mississippi) with him tonight and this enhanced his performance from the very start.He opened his performance with his single "I Better Walk Away" from his "Old School,New School Flava" cd and the crowd was feeling him on this jam.His next song "When You Pack Your Bags" is from his latest cd and he left the stage area and begin to sing throughout the crowd.He looked like a seasoned veteran as he had the ladies swooning.He really gave the crowd a thrill as he performed a song he wrote for his friend and mentor,Willie Clayotn."I love Me Some You" was the song and Vick gave a very soulful rendition that would make even Willie Clayton smile.Greenwood is right down the road from Greenville,Mississippi which happen to be the hometown of Tyrone Davis so when he started on Tyrone Davis "If I Could Turn Back The Hands Of Time" the place erupted,people were up and dancing and loving this performance a lot.He continued his Tyrone Davis tribute with "Give It Up,Turn It Loose".He closed his performance with one of his old school jams "Lets Dance" and thats exactly what the people in attendance did.Due to time restraint he didn't perform his southern soul smash hit "Baby Come Back Home" and myself and everyone else was very disappointed.He wanted to do the right thing and repsect the artists performing next so he complied but I can tell you now as the night went on he was the only artist that complied so next time Vick,the hell with the time restraints and just do the damn thang.If the folks in Greenwood didn't know Vick Allen I assure you they know him now.This was the best performance that I've seen him do.He was very charasmatic on this night and this helped him to go over well with the crowd.Vick is a terrific soul singer with a very strong stage presence.I've seen his maturation as a performer the last couple of years and he has definetly emerged as a must see artist.This was an outstanding performance that really set a nice tone for the rest of the show.To get all the latest Vick Allen music,upcoming shows and other news please visit his website at www.vickallen.com and also checkout his myspace page at www.myspace.com/vickallen

The next performer on the night was one of my favorite artist,Omar Cunningham.His shows are far and few but I always make it a focal point to catch him anytime he is in the area.This was Sir Cap first time seeing him perform and Mane had seen him one other time so they were just as enthused as I was to see him perform.His band is so tight,his keyboard player must have been a big fan of Roger Troutman as he used a keyboard synthesizer and did a robotic-sounding vocal that brought Omar to the stage and this blended nicely with the angelic vocals from his backup singers,the beautiful and very talented Youngblood sisters,Tonya and Sonya(I love you girls).I was very ipmressed and the crowd loved it even more.Omar has always been very popular with the ladies so its no suprise that the women were up and making some serious noise as he opened his show.
He opened his performance with "Before I Let You Go" and the women down front were all feeling this one."Baby Don't Leave Me" continued to make the women melt.He got the people dancing with "Hell At The House".His next song was my personal favorite,"Sweet,Sweet" and it sounded just like its namesake.I've always boasted that in my opinion Omar has THE BEST LIVE VOCALS in the industry and it continues to remain true.This song should be played on all the mainstream radio stations and his face should be seen on BET,MTV and VH1.He even passed out roses to the ladies as he performed this soul ballad."Married Woman,Married Man" got the people back up and dancing.His soulful voice filled the air with his rendition of Sam Cooke's "A Change Is Gonna Come".He closed his performance with the song that put him on the map."Check To Check" had everyone on their feet and dancing once again.Omar Cunningham's body of work speaks for itself.He is one of the top performers in the industry and did I mention that he has THE BEST LIVE VOCALS IN THE INDUSTRY.To get all the latest Omar Cunnigham music,upcoming shows and other news please visit his myspace pages at www.myspace.com/omarcham and www.myspace.com/omarcunninghammusic1

The next performer was a true living legend,J.Blackfoot was introduced and he received a huge ovation as he made his way to the stage.He was accompanied on this night by "The Queen",Ann Hines.His first song was "Just Got Paid" and this uptempo jam had the people on their feet and dancing.His next song,"After The Tone" which is also one of my personal favorites and it sounded oh so good."Your Man Is Home Tonight" was his next song and although I've heard Carl Sims verison of the southern soul hit I've always liked Uncle J's version better.Speaking of Uncle J,Sir Charles wasn't available on this night but J. Blackfoot's backup singer(I didn't catch his name)did Sir Charles justice as they performed the southern soul duet "I'm Just A Fool Part 2" and the crowd loved it.The next two songs were the highlight of his performance for me as he teamed up with Ann Hines and did two of my favorite southern soul songs,"Just One Lifetime" never sounded any better as the two of them belted out vocals that moved the crowd.One couple was actually crying as they slow danced and sang this song to each other.The moment was so surreal,I don't know if it was true love or the alcohol but it was a sight to behold.Their next duet was the classic "Two Different People" and I've never seen them perform this song together and for those who haven't their chemistry together on stage is magical.It was like watching the legendary Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell perform as they laughed,shrugged,tucked and tease doing the entire song.He paid tribute to the hardest working man in show business as he did a rendition of James Brown's "Please,Please,Please" he even mastered the going to his knees and having his royal robe draped over him which really went over well with the audience.He closed his performance with his classic hit "Taxi" and man the roof blew off the civic center.This was THE BEST J. Blackfoot performance that I've ever seen and just like fine wine he gets better with time.As he walked off stage the people in Greenwood wanted more of the living legend and believe me he wanted to go back out there but as we all know that these shows are on a schedule.Damn good show.

Dr. C.C.,Clarence Carter came on next and I was glad to have the opportunity to see him perform again.As I was watching this Legend being led to the stage I could only think about some of the greats(Johnnie Taylor,Tyrone Davis & Little Milton ) who have gone on to Soul Heaven.I was glad that I was here tonight to see this living legend perform.Anyone who is familar with any of his shows know the man has a big since of humor.He can talk s**t with the best of them.His raw language got the audience attention,I know it got mine.He opened his performance with "Too Weak To Fight".He performed "Take It All Off" followed by Ray Charles "What I'd Say"(huge ovation) and then he performed one of my father's favorite songs "Patches".I got a little emotional during that song because I began thinking about my Pops.It would have been nice if he were here to enjoy this with me.Next he performed my personal favorite "Slip Away" and the house was feeling it.Old school was bringing the house down.He closed the show with his signature song "Strokin" and you can just imagine how everyone both young and old reacted as he performed this classic hit.One couple got a lil bit too explict and I won't even go into details lets just say that this song is definetly for the grown folks.It was really great to see an icon like Clarence Carter perform.
With so many of our beloved artists going home I make sure that I get a chance to see a performance whenever I get the opportunity.

The last performer on the night was my godmother,the Queen of the Blues,Denise Lasalle.She was led on stage by her son and my good friend Ray.She received the loudest ovation of the night.This being her hometown you can get very comfortable at home so she was very explicit tonight.Can't no one in this industry male or female talk more sh*t than Denise Lasalle and tonight would be no different.I've seen her show so many times and I'm not tired of it yet.She opened her performance with"Lady In The Streets".Her next song was "Down Home Blues" and the southern soul party quickly became an old juke joint party.Denise kept the party going with my personal favorite "Trapped By This Thing Called Love",I can listen to her sing this song all night long.She paid tribute to Little Milton as she did a rendition of "The Blues Is Alright" and she allowed the crowd to sing along on this cut.Her next song was "Drop That Zero" and the ladies were really feeling this song."Snap,Crackle And Pop" was the best part of her performance as she had the crowd cracking up with her raw and explicit lyrics.Her reference to Clarence Carter(Strokin'),Love Doctor(Slow Roll It),Theodis Ealey(Stand Up In It) and Marvin Sease(Candy Licker) went over very well.It was late but no one had left the building as she did her own rendition of B.B. King's "The Thrill Is Gone" with her version called "The Thrill Is Still On".Her next song was from her latest cd titled "You Got To Pay Before You Pump" and yes fellas she's telling all the ladies you got to pay to hit it.She closed her performance with "My Toot Toot" and she was joined on stage by her son Ray and he received a nice ovation from the women on hand as he begin to display his freaky side.It is always a pleasure for me to see a Denise Lasalle performance and I hope and pray that I will be able to see her for many more years to come.

This was one of the best shows that I've ever attended.I would like to thank Vick Allen,Omar Cunningham,J.Blackfoot,Ann Hines,Karen Wolfe(Denise Lasalle's backup singer) and Denise Lasalle who all took the time to converse with me at this show.I know how occupied you all be at these shows.I also would like to give a shout out to my man Cyerio Hughes(thanks for all the love),Willard Frederick(the hardest working merchandise man at any show),the Clarksdale Divas,(Roni,Claudette,Keelah and Latriest you ladies do know how to get your blues on) and last but not least my original Dawg Pound members Sir Cap and Mane.I'm glad you lost sheep have came back to the flock I really enjoyed hanging out at a show with you guys again.I had a great time at this show and I just wanted to share it with the greatest fans in the world.Take care and MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALWAYS.I'll see you down by the stage.

BIG K9
www.bigk9.net

TO VIEW ALL PHOTOS FROM THIS SHOW AND ALL THE LATEST BLUES AND SOUTHERN SOUL NEWS PLEASE VISIT MY WEBSITE AT  www.bigk9.net  AND BLESS MY GUESTBOOK WITH YOUR PRESENCE.

 

FEBUARY 3,2008:


"THE SEXY SOULFUL DIVA,NELLIE"TIGER" TRAVIS ROCKS GROUND ZERO BLUES CLUB"


Hello BLUES and SOUTHERN SOUL FANS.First of all I would like to extend a belated HAPPY NEW YEAR GREETINGS to the number one(1) fans in the world.I always start my first concert review of a New Year with reflections from the past year.2007 was truly the greatest Blues and Southern Soul ride for me to date.I attended more shows than any of the previous years and I was able to share more concert reviews and photos with all of you.The biggest highlight of 2007 had to be the "WDIA JUKE JOINT TOUR" that was an experience of a lifetime.Also in 2007 I was able to rub elbows with some familar faces such as T.K. Soul,Sir Charles,Walter Waiters,O.B. Buchana,Omar Cunningham,Willie Clayton,Nathaniel Kimble,Steve Perry,Jeff Floyd,Vick Allen,Latimore,J. Blackfoot,Mel Waiters,Donnie Ray,Carl Sims,Archie Love,Billy Soul Bonds,Bobby Blue Bland,Marvin Sease,Bobby Rush,Wilson Meadows,Reggie P,Bill Coday and I'm sure there are a few more and please forgive me if I didn't mention you.I had the opportunity to see the Blues wailer son himself for the very first time and a lot of you fans know that I'm referring to Floyd Taylor who is a striking resemblance of his father Johnnie Taylor not only by his looks but in his music as well.Other first time artist that I was able to meet and greet in 2007 were David Brinston,Dr. Feel Good Potts(Sheba's father),Jerry L,Larome Powers,Kelvin Wilson and James Smith.

In 2007 I also had the pleasure to be in the presence of the lovely divas of the blues and southern soul industry starting with my Godmother,the Queen of the Blues,Denise Lasalle,Betty Padgett(thats my baby ya'll),Pat Brown,Roni,Lacee,Sheba Potts-Wright,Karen Wolfe and the real diva,Mrs. Shirley Brown,she doesn't take photos at shows anymore but she allowed me to take some with her and I was truly honored that she allowed me to do this,I guess I got that effect on women(Lol).There were also divas that I had the opportunity to see perform for the very first time including Barbara Carr,The Duchess,Miz B,Jewel J and the firery Ms. Jody.All though I didn't see her perform I also met recording artist,Sweet Angel and the legendary producer,Mike Dobbins(who is also Sweet Angel's fiance').

If you look at the previous two paragraphs you will see a big difference in the list of male artist compared to the female artist.At most of the shows I attended there weren't any female artist on the shows.Every promoter has the right to book the artist that he or she chooses because they are the ones putting up the money to provide us fans with these wonderful shows.I just hope and pray that 2008 will honestly be the year for more of our talented divas to be included on most of the shows that I attend.I'm not trying to win the favor of the women here,this is about right and wrong,these female artist work their ass off just as hard as the male artist as a matter of fact they work even harder because its tougher for them to get the recongnition and the respect from the promoters and the record executives.I'm glad the fans of this genre of music don't choose sides at all,the only thing they care about is good blues and southern soul music.

My 2008 Blues and Southern Soul ride begins at home and when I say home good people I really mean home.Growing up in a small rural town you have to idolize most people from a far and what I mean by that is the people you see on television or in magazines.Sure your parents,school teachers and other local professionals are people to admire but they don't have that so called celebrity status.I mentioned my hometown of Mound Bayou,Mississippi in a past concert review("2007 WDIA JUKE JOINT TOUR FIRST STOP" for those of you who haven't read it) and gave a brief but thourough history of the nations oldest all black town.I've covered blues and southern soul artists from my surrounding area such as Willie Clayton,O.B. Buchana,Nathaniel Kimble and David Brinston to name a few but never one from my hometown.Well all that changed recently as I had an opportunity to see my homegirl,Da-Man recording artist Nellie"Tiger"Travis perform for the very first time.She and I are from the same hometown and attended the same high school where she was once a high school homecoming queen.We've had contact in the past but I've never been able to catch her shows when she came to the area.The true fans of this genre of music already know about this sexy diva but for those of you who don't please allow me the opportunity to introduce her to you.

Nellie "Tiger" Travis is a beautiful woman with a soulful voice. Originally hailing from MOUND BAYOU,MISSISSIPPI, Travis now calls Chicago home.In her new surroundings, Nellie has chosen to demonstrate her ample vocal talents in the highly competitive Chicago blues scene, performing at venues such as Kingston Mines and Koko Taylor's Celebrity Room.To date she has worked with Buddy Guy, Koko Taylor,Carl Weathersby,Bobby Rush,Tyrone Davis,Otis Clay,Big Time Sarah,Cicero Blake,Buddy Miles,Artie "Blues Boy" White,Little Milton,Willie Clayton,Latimore,J. Blackfoot,Stan Mosely,Shannon Curfman and Shemika Copeland just to name a few.Nellie has standing engagements overseas and has performed in Greece since 1998. Her many overseas tours has included performances in Germany, Brazil, Italy and Japan. The "Tiger" performs regularly in Chicago when she's not touring around the country in the many venues and festivals that take place throughout the year.

Academy award winning actor,Morgan Freeman's blues club "GROUND ZERO" in Clarksdale,Mississippi was the venue for my first 2008 BLUES AND SOUTHERN SOUL ride.It was a couple of other shows in the surrounding area but I chose to not only come out and support my homegirl but to also set the tone for supporting these female artist in this industry.It was a diverse crowd on hand for tonight's blues and southern soul gathering and everytime I visit Ground Zero it appears to be that way.It is always refreshing to see black and white folks coming together and socializing with one another especially in the heart of the Mississippi Delta where racial tension is known to exist.This was also a reunion of sorts for DA DAWG POUND.I was joined on this night by two of my original Dawg Pound members,Carnez Parris a.k.a. "Sir Cap" and Doyle Parris a.k.a. "Dr. Feel Good".Due to our work schedules and other personal matters, I've attended a lot of shows without them but the Dawg Pound has grown over the last couple of years and most of the members who attend shows with me are the newer members of Da Dawg Pound.When I told them that our homegirl was performing at Ground Zero,without hesitation they agreed to come out and show her some love and support.Joining us in Da Dawg Pound were Clarksdale Divas Roni,Keelah and Latriest.Before the show begin we felt like we were in the old juke joints of old as the smell of chicken wings and fish filled the air.Sir Cap and Dr. Feel Good couldn't resist trying the burger,onion rings,shrimp and fries but me I was cool,I had a shot of Crown(they had no Seagrams gin)and my cold Bud Light to chase it with.So with my original K9 posse in the house and the Clarsdale Divas chilling in Da Dawg Pound allow me to begin my 2008 BLUES AND SOUTHERN SOUL RIDE.

Nellie"Tiger"Travis didn't have her band with her so she was backed on this night by Guitar Mikey and his fellow musicans who also were the opening act for tonights show.When she was introduced to the crowd she recieved a thunderous ovation and it kind of took me by suprise,I had no idea she was so popular to the people in attendance.As she walked out on stage all the guys(black & white) were captured by her stunning beauty.The divas for this genre of music are some of the most sexiest women you will see anywhere.LAWD HAVE MERCY is all I can say.I've seen them all Roni,Sheba Potts-Wright,Ms. Monique,Betty Padgett,Karen Wolfe and the late Jackie Neal and now Nellie"Tiger"Travis if the LORD made anything finer he must have kept it for himself.Before she sang a note she had all the fellas won over.Her first song on the night was "Oil And Water" and good people let me tell you from the start this diva has plenty of soul.I know you hear me say this about a lot of these female artist but I'm talking about a deep down soul that reminds me a lot of Betty Padgett so you already know where I'm coming from on that one.She immediately rocked the house with this cut.Her next song was a wondeful rendition of the Staple Singers "Lets Do It Again" and at the end of the song the crowd was wanting her to sing it again.She went into a slew of medleys including Marvin Gaye's "Sexual Healing",Freddie Jackson's "Rock With Me Tonight",Gerald Levert's "Cassanova",The Manhattan's "Shining Star",Love Doctor's "Slow Roll It" and Nellie begin to slow roll it for the crowd,GOT DAMN,GOT DAMN did she ever slow roll it,this diva made all the fellas jaws drop with her sexy version.She contiued her medley of songs with Theodis Ealey's "Stand Up In It"and my Dawg Pound member,Dr. Feel Good hit the dance floor and begin to cut a rug with several of the female patrons in attendance.I'm not sterotyping and PLEASE DON'T ANYONE GET OFFENDED but a few of these white females were hanging quite well with Dr. Feel Good as they all were having a wang dang doodle of a time out on the dance floor.Only at a blues and southern soul show can you see a black man dancing with multiple white women grown folks style,this was a wonderful sight to behold.She ended her medley of sons with Bill Withers' "Lean On Me" and Marvin Gaye's "Lets Get It On" and Sir Cap and myself joined Dr. Feel Good on the dance floor.She performed my personal favorite next,"You Gone Make Me Cheat" and I made my way front and center downstage and I was up close and personal with my sexy homegirl.I felt as though she was singing this song just for me as I extended my hand to her and she held it and looked at me with the cutest face in the industry.This song should have garnered more popularity and airplay on the southern soul market.I know the true fans already know about this song but for those of you who don't this is a must listen to for real.It should have been an instant southern soul smash hit."Let The Good Times Roll" was her next song and boy did they ever roll as the dance floor was overcrowded,it looked like a honky tonk/juke joint gathering as everyone danced the night away.The highlight of the show was when she performed a rendition of Creedance Clearwater revival hit song "Proud Mary" that was made popular by Ike and Tina Turner.Before she got started she chose several women from the crowd including the Clarksdale Divas,Roni and Keelah to come down front and they were going to be the center of attention for this song.At the start of the song Nellie and guitar Mikey did a good slow version similar to the one performed by Angela Bassett and Laurence Fishbourne in "Whats Love Got To Do With It?" and in a blink of an eye the tempo became fast pace as she told the women down front to shake what they momma gave them.Again the white females in attendance held their own but it was the divas from Clarksdale that stole the show especially Keelah who did a realistic Tina Turner like version.She closed her performance with"I Rather Go Blind,Than To See You Walk Away" which is a song from her latest cd titled "Higher Ground".She gave a very soul stirring and gut wrenching performance on this song.I had never heard it before but now it is my new favorite Nellie"Tiger"Travis song,she had the entire place slow dancing and feeling this cut as she took us back home for real.She put the microphone down and continued to belt out the vocals to this beautiful song.Her live vocals without the mic was by far one of the most impressive performances that my eyes and ears had ever seen or heard,I damn near cried as she ended this song.Good people you have got to hear this song ASAP,I promise you that you won't be disappointed.Nellie"Tiger"Travis is a phenomenal southern soul diva.She blends the sounds of Tina Turner,Gladys Knight,Mavis Staples and Patti Labelle all rolled up in one.Soulful,sultry,brass and sassy would described her performance best.With the face of a Super model and a Beyonce' like figure she is without a doubt the total package.Homegirl your time has come and I'm putting you right up their with the elite female artist in this industry,welcome to the club Nellie.I can't wait to see you do your thing again.DAMN GOOD SHOW HOMEGIRL!

Please go out and show Nellie some love and support,add all of her cds to your collection including her debut cd "I Got It Like That"(2000),"Live At Sweet Georgia Brown's"(2002),"Wanna Be With You"(2005) featuring the hit singles "You Gone Make Me Cheat" and "Baby Mama Drama" and her latest cd "Higher Ground"(2007) that features the single "I Rather Go Blind,Than To See You Walk Away".For more information on Nellie"Tiger"Travis including bio,photos,upcoming shows and cd release dates please visit her website at www.nellietravis.com.

Well my 2008 Blues and Southern Soul ride begin with a bang.I hope I can hold true to my words and help to see the female artist of this genre of music get there just do.I want to thank Nellie"Tiger"Travis for allowing me the opportunity to converse and to provide you all with some terrific photos from this show.You are simply the best homegirl and I am truly greatful.I also would like to give a shout out to guitar Mikey(you got some serious skills my man) and the Clarksdale Divas,Roni,Keelah and Latriest I really had a great time partying with you all(we must do it again real soon).To my orignal Dawg Pound members Sir Cap and Dr. Feel Good I hope that 2008 will allow us to get together down by the stage more often.I had a great time at this blues and southern soul gathering and like always I just wanted to share it with the greatest fans in the world.2008 has started off very well and I hope you all will continue to join me on my blues and southern soul ride.Take care and MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALWAYS.

BIG K9
www.bigk9.net

TO VIEW ALL PHOTOS FROM THIS SHOW AND ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM THE BLUES AND SOUTHERN SOUL INDUSTRY,PLEASE VISIT MY WEBSITE AT www.bigk9.net AND BLESS MY GUESTBOOK WITH YOUR PRESENCE.