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Big Blues Bender Official Program 2016
Welcome to the Bender!
I’m AJ Gross, and I’m thrilled to welcome you to the 2016 Big Blues Bender! It is my honor, my pleasure, and indeed my privilege to gather such a fine group of artists & fans in my hometown, for what has proven to be an amazing weekend of music and fun. My goal for the Bender is for it to be the best and most enjoyable music event anywhere. I want all of you to have the best experience possible year after year. I’m a huge music fan just like you, and you’ll undoubtedly see me at tons of shows all weekend long, so come say hi, and let me know if we are meeting our goal. Let’s continue to build this community together, and ensure that the Blues has a home out here in the desert, well into the future! Much Love, AJ Gross Founder, Big Blues Bender
AJ Gross - Founder of the Bender
PANELS & PARTIES
Appear in yellow on the schedule
Veterans Welcome the Virgins Party! • Thu, September 8, 6:00 - 7:00p • Pool Join Bender veteran and host, Nancy Hoffman, in welcoming this year’s crop of Bender Virgins!
Tab Benoit Meet & Greet. Ladies Get A Rose! • Fri, September 9, 6:00 - 7:30p • Bender Village It’s Ladies’ Night! Come say hi to Tab Benoit.
Blues Foundation To Build On • Sat, September 10, 11:00a - 12:00p • Showroom
The Blues Foundation Panel will provide a brief history and discussion of what the Blues Foundation is all about. We will have this year’s IBC winners, The Delgado Brothers, discussing their experiences, Victor Wainwright talking about the BMAs, Bob Margolin talking about Generation Blues and educating the next generation, and Dr. Janice Johnston will be there to fill us in on the HART Fund and the work she’s been doing. The Panel will be run by Barbara B. Newman, Blues Foundation President and CEO.
Train Kept A Rollin’ • Sun, September 11, 11:00a - 12:00p • Showroom The Panel Train Kept A Rollin will be Blues Industry Vets telling stories about their experiences and memories through the years. Our Panel will be run by Cleve Baker and include: Missy Erlanger (Dr. John, Keb MO), Rick Booth (Intrepid Artists), Hugh Southard (Blue Mountain Artists), and Rueben Williams (Manages: Tab Benoit, Samantha Fish, Cyril Neville, Royal Southern Brotherhood, Mike Zito).
Sandy Beaches Cruise Meet-Up • Sun, September 11, 3:30 - 4:00p • Showroom SBC Cruisers, represent! Come out and say hi before the McCrary Sisters show.
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12 Artist Profiles
Keb’ Mo’ This three-time Grammy-awarded Blues legend continues to extend his legacy as an essential 21st century master of this original American art form. Whether in the Studio or on Stage, his passion for playing, and for the music, is brilliant with every note he strikes. Much of his mojo magic is that his offerings are never overstated. Keb is forever on the cutting edge and has a solid Taj Mahal-influenced delivery that is distinct and unmistakably all his own. Smooth vocals with concerns of the heart and life are his true trademark. His resonating guitar licks that shine with perfection, are warm, relaxed and enjoyable, and create an effortless and natural Blues & Soul groove. He is a true modern-day throwback that lays down genuine Blues, and he's undoubtedly one of America's finest storytellers. It is beyond clear that when you stand in a Blues room with Keb' Mo’, you are in the presence of a Blues Giant.
Delbert McClinton The venerable Delbert McClinton is a legend among Blues music aficionados, not only for his amazing longevity, but for his ability to combine Blues, Country,
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Soul, and Rock & Roll as if there were no distinctions between any of them in the best time-honored Texas tradition. In fact, many music critics have deemed Delbert's offerings as a “Stand Alone” music genre in itself. Not only is he a Vocal Titan with his powerful, soulful, distinctive voice, Delbert is a formidable harmonica player that taught the late John Lennon how to blow the Blues harp. Long before he recorded as a singer, McClinton's career began in the late '50s as he played behind such great luminaries as Howlin' Wolf, Jimmy Reed, Sonny Boy Williamson II, and Bobby "Blue" Bland. A critics' darling and a favorite of his peers, Delbert McClinton is a Multiple Grammy Award winner that continues to bring audiences to their feet, singing his familiar songs and has the whole crowd “Shakin' That Boogie.”
Beth Hart It couldn't be more true that Beth Hart is the workhorse of Blues’ American women. Honing her craft for beyond 20 years, her vocal performances have set audiences back in their seats around the globe. Beth strikes deep emotion in her audiences and brings her listeners from eye dripping sorrow to hard earned victorious jubilation. Sultry and Raw is
Big Blues Bender Official Program 2016
where her vocal grip evolves. Powerful and Provocative are definitions that can not contain her boundless talent and presence. Like a world class boxer, she is a life's survivor and scrappy fighter, and it is evident in every performance. With song writing skills and delivery that are impeccable, Beth Hart is the personification of one of the world's most glittering musical stars … Honestly stated Beth Hart is Bad Ass.
Tab Benoit It has been stated his music is the healer of souls and mender of broken hearts. Blues Artist and Louisiana Wetlands conservationist Tab Benoit totes the relieving and soothing Delta Mojo that only a man with a Cajun pedigree can deliver. The smooth yet raw manner of his Blues is beyond exceptional. Tab takes his audiences down to the Delta with such authenticity that one can close their eyes and see the breeze in Southern Moss covered black water Hardwood Oaks and Cypress. His melodies and Blues renderings transcend the room and takes you to another space and place altogether. Tab's renowned vocals are set with a powerful, soulful tone that compliments his emotional and muscular
his crowds breathless, Bobby Rush is a definite not-to-be missed Blues Legend.
guitar crafting. The Bayou Locomotive, Tab Benoit is by far at the pinnacle of today's Blues World.
Bobby Rush & The Bender Brass Mr. Rush is a Blues Music Hall of Fame inductee that has earned 17 Blues Foundation Blues Awards including the coveted B.B. King Entertainer of the Year Award in 2015. Working the stage since he had to wear a fake mustache to play juke joints as a teen, till today, he has forever been driven to bring his audiences a full non-stop Blues experience that you will find nowhere else. His repertoire is wider than the Mississippi River and Deeper than the Oceans. From Jump Up and Dance Funky to Delta Blues Cool, Bobby Rush weaves a tight Blues show that reflects his never-ending youthfulness and enthusiasm. Known for leaving
Roy Rogers & The Delta Rhythm Kings Roy Rogers is considered one of the Blues scene's preeminent slide guitarists. His distinctive guitar style is instantly recognizable and certainly unforgettable. His haunting and alluring musical renderings are firmly set in the heart of the Delta. John Lee Hooker recognized his slide mastery and recruited Roy to join his Coast to Coast Band, and they blended a superb Blues cocktail and brought their collective talents to Blues fans around the world. This producer of Grammy Awardwinning music dazzles his audiences with heartfelt emotion with his articulate technique that satisfies those that long for old school style as well as those that prefer the flash of innovative contemporary Blues. Straight up, Roy Rogers is a modern day Bottleneck slide guitar Master.
Cyril Neville’s Royal Southern Brotherhood This Blues Outfit is anchored by the Grammy Award-winning, New Orleans Blues Royal Family member, Cyril Neville. Along with original member, Yonrico Scott and fresh additions Tyrone Vaughan (son of Jimmie and nephew to Stevie Ray), guitar wizard Bart Walker, and newest member Darrell Phillips on bass, they continue their world dominance as a rocket fueled touring juggernaut. As the name implies, Royal Southern Brotherhood has its roots firmly planted deep in the South.
This fabulous five continue to deliver the unique sound that RSB fans have come to expect. They have a clear direction and understand where it all originated, how the project was developed and why they are relevant as one of the most respected Blues Outfits on the planet. With their collective mojo style of Blues, Rock, Funk and Soul there's no question that Royal Southern Brotherhood is a modern day Super Group.
Jimmy Thackery & The Drivers When this Blues Master ascends the stage, you can expect a guitar lesson from the School of Stratocaster and a taste of flat-top Gibson. His guitar strings have been rubbed across a butcher's stone and the riffs that Jimmy carves out cut slam to the bone. From this well respected Blues Legend, you can anticipate an awe-inspiring Blues trip that has been well seasoned for
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over 4 decades. Without showing off, his mastery of the instrument will keep you hanging on to every note. From Greasy and Down Low to High on the Hawg and Sophisticated, he owns it all. A Sly Smile, Weeping Eyes, A moment of Heart Ache, Life Relieving Jubilation … You'll get the full spectrum when Jimmy Thackery comes to play….
Kenny Neal
Samantha Fish She is a Blues Music Award-winning Blues treasure. Samantha sports a wide alluring smile that draws you in close then smacks you in the face with her gritty straight-forward Blues passion. Her passion is Up-Front Love but unapologetic. She has proven to be a concerned songwriter drawing from her observation and her feeling of the whole human experience. Chock Full of natural talent, Samantha has accomplished what scores of musicians strive for and rarely achieve throughout their career. She is an excellent guitar player who sports fun-to-listen-to licks and is developing a creative style that’s all her own. Whether she is exploring solid picking or working the frets on slide guitar, her musical expression and mesmerizing vocal styling paints a vibrant picture for her audiences. She's one of the brightest new artists to come along in a very long time. Her latest album went straight to Number One on the Billboard Magazine Blues Chart on the first day of its release. Samantha Fish is one righteous, gritty and rockin' Blues force to be reckoned with.
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Kenny Neal gives all his guitar licks plenty of room to breathe, and the notes ample space to rest. His renderings have been likened to the relaxing sound of raindrops on a tin roof… Smooth and Soothing… but don't be disillusioned, when Kenny starts to play, one might just smell smoke. With those clean guitar riffs comes great songwriting, thick, hearty vocals & some classic Blues harp work with a genuine quality that is rarely found. This Blues Music Award Winner forever offers up a tasty good time Blues Gumbo straight from the Louisiana Bayou that will surely satisfy. Straight Up, Kenny Neal is a Deep Bayou Rooted Critically Acclaimed Blues Artist that casts a potent Swamp Root VooDoo Spell…
John Németh Feat. Bender Brass John Németh has the full essence of that rare-perceptive penetrating talent that has captured the Blues World and made it his own. Onstage and in the studio, he is upfront retro with a big dose of modern style. He is a suave, charismatic Showman that brings catchy original song-craftings and offers up a rich vocal prowess that is seldom equaled. If that wasn't enough of an iconic blessing, he is indeed a wunderkind Blues harp master. His peers and certainly his fans will attest to the fact that John
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Németh's Star Power can't be denied. This sophisticated Blues & R&B Renaissance man is a surefire bet to be the administrator of a remarkable performance lubricated with a jumbo helping of “Memphis Grease”.
Jarekus Singleton Jarekus Singleton is a Bluesman that will “Refuse to Lose”. Jarekus is a musical trailblazer with a bold vision for the future of the blues. Springing from the same Mississippi soil as Charley Patton, Muddy Waters and B.B. King, Singleton's cuttingedge sound equally rooted in rap, rock and blues traditions -- is all his own. He melds hip-hop wordplay, rock energy and R&B grooves with contemporary and traditional blues, turning audiences of all ages into devoted fans. His untamed guitar licks and strong, soulful voice effortlessly moves from ferocious and funky to slow and steamy to smoking hot.
Waters, Hound Dog Taylor, Albert Collins, among other contemporaries of the day, set the cast for this astounding Blues talent. A week after high school graduation, he toured the world as a band member of Blues Great Koko Taylor. Bringing his skills to a fine edge with the tutelage of Albert King, Johnny Winter, Stevie Ray Vaughan and through the love of his father, Bernard Allison has become one of the most respected Bluesmen of his time.
Singleton is a fresh, electrifying Bluesman bursting at the seams with talent and arguably one of the hottest, most exciting new musicians on the blues scene today.
Victor Wainwright and The Wildroots Victor Wainwright is a Blues Music Award-winning Bluesman that is the epitome of a fire-breathing Boogie Woogie Blues Rocket. As he puts a “Jerry Lee Lewis” whopping on his flaming 88s, his piano becomes an extension of his heart and soul. His warm, raspy, wellseasoned vocals are much like a shot of dark long-aged Bourbon, breathtaking and satisfying. Inspired by his personal relationship and times with Blues Hall of Famer Pinetop Perkins, Wainwright has soaked up the experience of a dirt floor, backwoods rumbling juke joint and lays down those escapades with every performance. He pays close listening attention to his bandmates' musical conversation on stage and relishes in their craft. When it's his turn for expression, it's an all out “WildRoot Rumble”.
Albert Cummings There are few that can Master two crafts and be considered World-Class in both. Such are the circumstances surrounding Albert Cummings. His hands produce highly decorated, award winning homes and undeniable blistering, uniquely muscular yet polished guitar wizardry. Cummings’ soulful and explosive vocals lay
another layer on his pyrotechnic on stage barrage of Blues rock. His blitzkrieg guitar style is a true Blues Lover's auditory feast that leaves his audiences yearning for more. Whether he's playing a Rolling Barrel House, a rowdy Roadhouse, a jumping back road Juke Joint or an awesome Auditorium, for 10 or 10,000, Albert gives his audiences every ounce of his energy. The fortitude of his blues, the wild, flawless quality of his guitar work and the rapturous boldness of his vocals are enough to satisfy any blues enthusiast.
Bernard Allison Group Bernard Allison has been the successful product of long hours working the craft. Bending strings from the time he was 12, he has never looked back and had to wonder why. His destiny was set early on as the fortunate son of Blues Hall of Famer Luther Allison. Early introductions to the likes of Muddy
Mr. Sipp The Mississippi Blues Child From Deep Down in McComb, Mississippi comes a happy, grinning and strolling International Blues Challenge Award-Winner, Castro Coleman aka Mr. Sipp. “The Mississippi Blues Child” was raised up in the Delta Blues culture. He is an eye-opening helping of Southern Hospitality. Before and after he set the Orpheum Theater a blaze in Memphis, Mr. Sipp continued to fan the flames of the Blues World. At this show, it's best to strap your Blues harness tight as Mr. Sipp is sure to take his audience on a snap neck Down South Blues ride. On stage he has a simple strategy, lay down a performance that has the heart of a Gulf Coast pirate, and he'll take no prisoners. Cannons banging you'll be hard pressed to find another Blues Diamond like Mr. Sipp… He's a fresh dug Blues gem that is about to come to full brilliance.
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have come to meld the sound of the North Mississippi Hill Country, Chicago Blues fusion, and Carolina Piedmont Country Blues into a laid-back style that is surely all their own. Moreland & Arbuckle plates a healthy Americana Blues meal that is honest, raw and sure enough For Real.
The Delgado Brothers
Moreland & Arbuckle The Blues duo Moreland & Arbuckle hail from the heartland of Wichita, Kansas and have taken that crossroads of American Blues Culture to another level. They have an entrancing electric energy that is easily recognizable on record or stage. These International Blues Challenge finalists have taken their wizardry on the road and left an eye-opening impression on every audience they have entertained. They
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Rolling strong out of East LA, The Delgado Brothers came to Memphis and took the 2016 International Blues Challenge by storm. Brother Joey Delgado demonstrated his wellseasoned fret board prowess in the contest and took home the “Albert King Award� for Best Guitarist to the amazement of the attending Blue Fans and Judges. Putting to song and sound life's ups and downs in their own soulful R&B style, they have for years been Los Angeles' best kept secret. These Blues veterans are a tight-knit group of brothers and friends that have stayed true to their musical providence. The
Big Blues Bender Official Program 2016
Delgado Brothers' stage performance guarantees to a be rock solid wall of pyrotechnic Blues set behind true life lyrics that will have the audience delighted, inspired, on their feet and on occasion bringing a tear brimming to the eye. Authenticity is the definition of their craft.
that are rich with the flow of emotion and the appeal of a contagiously mastered guitar. Rare are the talents of one stand alone man that can command a stage and theater as if he was an entire band. In a single word he can be defined as Inspirational, such are the talents of this world traveled, well respected and universally loved Music Maker.
Mingo Fishtrap
Matt Andersen & the Bona Fide Matt Andersen & The Bona Fide: For well over a decade Matt Andersen has been delivering stirring music that is complex but yet earthy as a tangled root. The well decorated Andersen won the 2010 International Blues Challenge and is a multiple Maple Blues Award winner. His dynamic performances are accentuated by his stop-you-in-your-tracks vocals
Like fine, brilliant, unknown bourbon that has just been discovered, Mingo Fishtrap has an old school familiar sound that is an assertive innovation. This Blues outfit is fronted by the talented Roger Blevins, Jr. whose vocals are crowd-pleasingly magnetic, full of sexy swagger and moxie. They have a bold back beat, thumping bottom end and smooth yet stinging guitar but what sets them apart is a fat, full rounded sound that is laid down by an astounding horn section. They serve up sultry Southern Blues, blistering Soul, and solid Funk twisted up tight with a long, easy burning finish. Mingo
Fishtrap totes a timeless retro groove that is cutting a crisp, fresh path in an ever changing Blues World. Shaded with influences of Memphis & Motown, this outfit has soaked up the musical ingredients of days long gone and has given it all the spice of today.
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"Billy Got Slide"
Shapes of Soul
Billy's new CD available Aug 6 from his website, CD Baby, Amazon.com, ITunes and LA Music Factory
Now Booking 2016/2017 festival Season Booking and contact 443-253-8156 www.BillyPierce.com - info @BillyPierce.com twitter@BillySlide www.facebook.com/Billy.Pierce.77
Music Schedule
Thursday, September 8th
TODAY’S THEME: Put on your red shoes and dance the blues
Friday, September 9th TODAY’S THEME: Ladies’ Night!
Music Schedule
Saturday, September 10th TODAY’S THEME: B’luau
Sunday, September 11th TODAY’S THEME: Concert Swag
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McCrary Sisters Hailing from music-rich Nashville, TN these four sisters were steeped in the gospel, absorbing their father’s, the Reverend Samuel H. McCrary, conviction and delivery of sermon and song. Collectively they have performed with Elvis, Bob Dylan, Stevie Wonder among other music superstars, in addition to paying homage to our Troops with President Obama and the First Family at the White House
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with Mary J. Blige. Beverly Ann, Deborah Dianne, Regina Avonette & Alfreda Antionette carry on a family legacy and tradition that is felt at every show. All are prolific songwriters that provide strong and meaningful lyrics that go beyond all cultural and generational labels and boundaries. Ultimately their sound is a musical mixture of soulful and powerful vocals blended with a spirit-rousing message that shines the light on the path to a better way. Their performance will have the audience shouting and hand clapping in one moment, to a freeromping foot- stomp in the next moment and reaching for an eye-drying Kleenex in the next. The McCrary Sisters fill every venue with an unmistakable feeling of freedom in the love of the Lord.
Anthony Gomes The Patron Saints of Blues Music found some battle ready artillery, set off the ordnance and struck the Blues world with a sensational Canadian Cannon Ball. Anthony Gomes is a modern day Blues Man that administers tempered
Big Blues Bender Official Program 2016
razor sharp guitar licks and hooks paired with soulful, gritty vocals that electrify the crowds at every venue. His latest and 12th album “Electric Field Holler” is certification of his rich song-crafting and tremendous talent. Gomes is a Blues visionary that is shaping a fresh, bold direction in the Blues universe. Stretching tradition with this new doctrine and direction, he is sculpting the Blues genre and moving it further on down the road.
His authenticity on record and stage has earned him reverent fans from around the globe. Anthony Gomes is sure to take full command of the stage and put on an energy infused rocking Blues revival.
the quiet fire of blues and roots music. Neo Music Scene gushes, “Ballyhoo! is a refreshing record that gets back to the roots of great American music,” I’m Music Magazine raves it's “A tasty slice of Americana music at its finest along with the great art of storytelling” and The El Vee adds, “JD & the Straight Shot mix blues, folk, and Americana styles into a timeless American music sound of their own.” The band has toured alongside luminaries such as the Eagles, ZZ Top, Keith Urban, Dixie Chicks, Jewel, the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band and the Allman Brothers Band. New England Music News proclaims, “Awesome is the word” for the JD & The Straight Shot live show and Encore Magazine agrees that it’s a “Foot-stompin’ good time.”
Brandon Santini JD & The Straight Shot JD & The Straight Shot are touring in support of their new, all-acoustic album, Ballyhoo!, which is steeped in
Brandon Santini is often mentioned in conversations about the finest frontline harmonica players in the world. Brandon is riding the crest of the wave of the latest surge of young
blues artists leaving their footprint in blues history. By combining his love and respect for traditional blues with a present, colorful style, his craft, and recorded efforts are often compared to Traditional Blues Giants James Cotton or Paul Butterfield. Raised in the Piedmont region of North Carolina, his relocation to Memphis allowed for him to absorb the sounds and culture of the Delta and North Mississippi Hill Country, honing his craft night after night, sweating it out in local Beale
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Street Clubs. Moreover, his talents are in constant demand with the Blues Artists in the studio. Brandon has a uniquely Memphis-by-way-of-New Orleans musical swagger, and he and his outfit are simply unforgettable.
Roxy Roca Pulling inspiration from 60's style soul and funk, this adrenaline-fueled outfit is sure to have its audience on their feet and grooving. Their sound is contagiously entertaining with soaring guitar, a funky back beat, sultry horns and slick soulful vocals. Roxy Roca is a throwback to the days when the band was sharp dressed and chock-full of smooth coolcat style. They are a music lover’s favorite on the Austin, TX music Scene, laying down taut rhythm combined with solid bluzey methodology. Be sure to wear your most comfortable shoes as this band is sure to have the crowd in a full-tilt boogiedown- shake. Get set for a dynamic, infectious and allout good time when Roxy Roca takes the stage.
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JW-Jones JUNO Award Nominee, Billboard Top 10 Blues artist JW-Jones tours constantly, and is known for his high-energy show that keeps getting hotter! Canadian-born Jones has released eight albums and performed in twenty-two countries and four continents. In 2015, JW was invited to join Buddy Guy on stage four times and Canned Heat twice. Hollywood actor Dan Aykroyd, known as Blues Brothers persona “Elwood Blues,” has called JW’s group an “ amazing blues band.” Earlier this year, George Thorogood & The Destroyers’ management requested JWJones to open for several of their tour dates, and JW has a new release coming later this year, produced by Colin Linden in Nashville.
Maple Award-winners always deliver a Good Time. Like most, the band came to the blues through the back door, loving the British rockers of their day and learning who inspired them. This bass-less 3 piece collaboration has an unapologetic primal sound that will elicit booty shaking, party making music. MonkeyJunk conjures up a strange brew with the dark edge of desperation and morning-after redemption. Though rooted deep in the historic blues greats, this Blues Music Award-winning outfit has its own distinguishing sound and tempo that unmistakably sets them apart from all others.
Betty Fox Band Betty Fox has unleashed her instinctive, rich and mellow Blues moxie on stages across the continent. Audiences have been wowed by Fox's vocal reach and the deep down sizzling emotion that smolders inside, capturing the true essence and tempered definition of soulful conviction…. Her passionate and burning vocals fuel the emotive lyrics with a rich and fervent style and grace. Fox's efforts are supported by a solid cast of musicians that allow her to release her wonderfully smooth and rich vocals in colorful fashion. Make no mistake, Betty Fox has the "Slow Burn" that packs a crisp punch of deep and soulful Blues that washes over you like an endless and evolving cascade....
MonkeyJunk
Bender Brass
MonkeyJunk is the most decorated Blues Outfit in all of Canada. These Juno and
Featuring Jimmy Carpenter, Deanna Bogart, Randy Oxford, Doug Woolverton,
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Big Blues Bender Official Program 2016
Mark Earley, Michael Leasure & Russell Jackson
Jimmy Carpenter is one of the hardest working sax men in the music business. He is a staple on the New Orleans music scene, working for years with Blues Great Tinsley Ellis, as the Band Leader with New Orleans' famous Walter “Woflman” Washington, Road Manager and Saxman with legendary Jimmy Thackery, and of late, traveling the world with Mike Zito and The Wheel. Jimmy also has his solo career, and his latest release on VizzTone “Walk Away” was critically acclaimed. Jimmy Carpenter's Sax bellows with rich Soul, jumps with thumping Funk and howls with a Muscle Shoals richness that is unmatched.
Deanna Bogart possesses a gift for approaching blues, soul, and R&B material with mesmerizing warmth and firmness. Gifted as a dual threat as a superb pianist and exceptional Sax
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player, she has a musical versatility that is simply astounding. Deanna Bogart is an award-winning multi-instrumentalist and multifaceted musician and has garnered three consecutive Blues Music Awards' Horn Instrumentalist of the Year for 2008, 2009 and 2010. Her sound is the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Deanna Bogart is a welcome addition to any on-stage lineup and is a shining light on every stage she's graced. Randy Oxford: When folks think of superior Blues instrumentation, guitar, keyboards, Blues harp, and saxophone come to mind, but rarely ever, trombone. Out of the evergreen state of Washington comes a Blues Man that has taken the deep-driving sound of this slide instrument to a whole new level. He has a thick grin that fronts a positive, good-humored attitude that surely comes through on every note he exhales. Randy honed his craft while serving in the US Army's multifaceted military band in Europe and Monterey,
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California. After years of night tripping road touring, Randy has total control of the trombone and uses the full extent on the instrument's tonal range. Randy has a clear impeccable sense of timing with every artist he accompanies.
most in-demand, versatile trumpeters of his generation. An alumni of the spectacular Blues outfit Roomful of Blues, Doug is a Turn It Up trumpeter that blends a musical cocktail that is stout and refreshing.
Doug Woolverton: Since the tender age of 7, Doug Woolverton has been cultivating his smooth, soulful, yet energetic trumpet sound for audiences around the world becoming one of the
Mark Earley: When he is not touring or recording with Roomful of Blues, the list is long of the artists that have invited Mark Earley to blow his astounding saxophone. Wayne Newton, J. Giles
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he may avoid comment, Michael Leasure is an undeniable world-class drummer with a remarkable style, miraculous showmanship & a monstrous gift of shear drumming brilliance.
Band, Taj Mahal, Coco Montoya, The Fabulous Thunderbirds are but a handful of world-renowned artists that have recognized his extraordinary talent.
Michael Leasure: Shattered Drum Sticks, Worn Drum Heads & Warped Cymbals, Michael Leasure has seen his share. At home behind a set of Ludwigs, his music career started at six years old with his Mom’s pots & pans. He then moved through playing time with the professional Velvet Knights Drum & Bugle Corp and the local Southern California music scene throughout the 90’s. Early on it was evident that Michael had a magical sense of rhythm and was destined to forever set a crowd-pleasing pounding back beat. His talents have been recruited and appreciated by Legendary Blues Man Albert Collins and the critically acclaimed Rock & Roll All-Star Edgar Winter. Since 2008 the unassuming and humble musicmaker has occupied the drum seat behind the renowned Walter Trout Band. Though
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your face, formidable, take no prisoners performance.
Russell Jackson: Starting his career with Otis Clay, Russell Jackson worked his way to B.B. King's Band and toured with the Blues legend for over six years. His distinctive style on the Bass Guitar is an energy filled funky groove line that lays a solid foundation for the players around him. The discography and list of music luminaries that he has shared the studio and stage with are long, distinguished and award winning. Sporting a wide music maker grin, Russell Jackson is sure to Let the Good Times Roll as he thumps his way in letting the audience know that this is what the Blues Bass Guitar is all about.
Jane Lee Hooker This five-piece All-Woman Blues Outfit lights a propane gas, blue flaming burner under a 90-gallon cauldron of thickening Blues Gumbo … This fragrant stew is in a constant boat paddle stirring of Muddy Waters, Howlin' Wolf, Big Mama Thornton and Humble Pie. This New York City outfit is Straight Up, Kicked In Gear, Dead-Set Ready to make some honest hip shaking Blues music. This tightly woven band’s sound offers a titanium hard version of the Blues and Southern rock that is aggressive and full of fire. When Jane Lee Hooker plugs in, be prepared for a far from tradition, in
Big Blues Bender Official Program 2016
Billy D and The Hoodoos Hailing from the rich Portland, OR music scene comes a Blues inspired music-lover's jewel. Billy Desmond fronts a three-piece outfit that is sure to impress with a smooth vocal style and hauntingly pleasing guitar tone and style. Their songs are catchy and will be bouncing in your brain long after you have taken in their performance. First honing his craft on the Blues club scene of Chicago, Billy D is a Blues songwriter that has ridden the soaring highs and deep down lows of life and his passionate zeal for the music comes through on every cut of his wildly popular album “Something's Wrong”. His songs go way past traditional blues music with a clear reflection of mother blues and her first-born rock and roll.
life from the depths of personal despair to the jubilation of enlightened redemption. True enough, Mike leans on his St. Louis Blues roots, but like many before him, Texas is where he found salvation and where his remarkable Blues music makes its defiant stand. This skillful, delicious and distinctive guitar player boasts vocals with an incredible depth of skill that has been delivered consistently throughout his fruitful career. All said and done, Mike Zito brings a white-hot chemistry that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats and on their feet in ecstatic rejoice.
This outfit had a visit with the root doctor, and he blessed them with the mystic voodoo juice. There is no doubt that you are sure to fall under the spell of Billy D & the Hoodoos.
Alastair Greene Band There are certain artists that will make even the most casual Blues fan stop and ponder… Has this one gone and followed the path of Blues patriarch Robert Johnson? Have they gone down to the Crossroads deep in Mississippi under a bright full moon at the intersection of Highways 61 and 47? Rest assured that the sizzling Mojo that Alastair Greene brings to the stage is a brazen talent that was hard earned working the bars, clubs, festivals, and arenas across the country and around the world. Genuine creativity, rocking flair, and impeccable guitar and vocals are his calling cards. It is no wonder why Alan Parsons tapped Alastair as his lead guitarist nearly a decade ago. His six-string work is filled with Emotion and Fire, complex for sure. He is a no-retreat riff master that delivers a lush tone that is as warm as a summer night. As he peers over his shades, he may claim to be Trouble at Your Door, but in all reality, the only trouble you’ll have is finding yourself a spot closer to the front of his stage. Alastair Greene is a true Modern Day Blues Rock Sensation that shouldn’t be missed.
Howlin’ King Crawdad Howlin’ King Crawdad and his Band are renowned for their hypnotic Cajun rhythms and amazingly refreshing Zydeco
melodies. The “King” is the consummate party host with a musical trick bag brimming with a contagious and funky explosive brand of Zydeco. They fill the room with unbridled enthusiasm that will excite your eardrums, make your heart thump harder, and your feet move a good bit faster. With their infectious and wild stage show, you’re sure to be Zydecofied, Funkified and Sanctified to the core, and Not a Soul will be left sitting in their seat. Howlin’ King Crawdad and His Band are the living epitome of “Laissize Les Bons Temps Rouler”. They surely “Let the Good Times Roll”.
Bob Margolin
Mike Zito Artist at Large... Being in the room with Mike Zito is a diverse musical ride that is at times as smooth as coasting easy on Pearl River and then stepping off the boat and running like a Greyhound. Mike's real natural habitat is dominating the stage. Mike has an undeniable romance with
Artist at Large... Bob Margolin is a well respected and much sought after Blues Artist. Headlining his dynamic Blues outfit since 1980, he has played thousands of gigs, recorded 11 solo albums and has played on and produced countless others. Honing his guitar and vocal style with the legendary Muddy Waters, Bob went on to have fabulous collaborations with B.B. King, Dr. John, Paul Butterfield, Levon Helm, Garth Hudson and many other Blues Luminaries. Also, Bob was part of The Band's Martin Scorsese production of the famed “Last Waltz” concert and film that garnered worldwide critical acclaim. This Living Blues Legend has been a part of several Grammy Award winning recordings, won numerous Blues Music Awards, has been awarded the Blues Foundation's prestigious “Keeping The Blues Alive” Award for Journalism, led workshops and written numerous instructional books. He is currently riding
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talent that has captivated audiences around the globe. Her command of the stage is punctuated with a free reeling and coiling whirlwind of sound and visual excitement. Her gypsy-like stage presence is truly unforgettable and revolutionary in the ever expanding Blues genre.
the success of his wildly popular 2016 album "My Road". This latest studio effort is a real crystal-clear reflection of his wellseasoned originality and domineering personality. Bob continues to light up stages around the globe with his one-ofa-kind style, all the while, paying honor to the valuable heritage from his years working the road and studio with Blues Master Muddy Waters. By any definition, Bob Margolin is an American original, a well decorated Master Bluesman and a definite must see for any true Blues fan. his Cajun accordion. A crowd favorite at every venue. Johnny turns out seamless energetic passion with his spellbinding gumbo of swampy blended Blues and R&B. His bare-knuckle approach is reminiscent of a southern elder prophet that has lived on the hard road that draws his sermon from a deep dark backwoods well. His performances are pure, unpretentious and come with a fullgrown swagger. Johnny Sansone is the personification of the finest that the New Orleans' music scene has to offer.
Jimmy Hall Artist at Large... A real Southern-fried Blues man, Jimmy Hall first set the world ablaze fronting the thumping southern rock outfit Wet Willie. Steeped in the gospel, he molded a unique R&B-infused Rock & Roll swagger that has made his audiences “Keep On Smiling” for decades. With his Raw and Gritty vocals, Sassy Saxophone and Hounding Harmonica, Jimmy Hall stands tall among the world's finest musicians and songwriters. Favored by his peers and fans alike, Jimmy Hall has forever been in demand and certainly in command when he takes to the stage. With the passion and emotion of a Down South Tent Revival, there's nothing like being witness to Jimmy Hall's Rendezvous with the Blues.
Johnny Sansone Artist at Large... The steamroller Johnny Sansone has overwhelmed audiences around the planet with his powerful vocals, sizzling Blues harp and mastery of
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Anne Harris Artist at Large... Blues is an expressive art form and nowhere can you find a more eloquent Bluesician than the mystic violinist, Anne Harris. Rolling, blending and folding in a variety of musical influences from Celtic to Americana to Funk, she embodies a musical genre-morphing Blues sound that is all her own. Anne is an Internationally recognized instrumental
Big Blues Bender Official Program 2016
Victor Wainwright Artist at Large... Victor Wainwright is a Blues Music Award-winning Bluesman that is the epitome of a fire-breathing Boogie Woogie Blues Rocket. As he puts a “Jerry Lee Lewis” whopping on his flaming 88s, his piano becomes an extension of his heart and soul. His warm, raspy, wellseasoned vocals are much like a shot of dark long-aged Bourbon, breathtaking and satisfying. Inspired by his personal relationship and times with Blues Hall of Famer Pinetop Perkins, Wainwright has soaked up the experience of a dirt floor, backwoods rumbling juke joint and lays down those escapades with every performance. He pays close listening attention to his bandmates' musical conversation on stage and relishes in their craft. When it's his turn for expression, it's an all out “WildRoot Rumble”.
Bob Corritore Artist at Large... Bob Corritore is indeed a true harmonica master, having honed his craft while working as a club owner, producer, and often impromptu sideman. Bob is one of the most respected Blues artists in the Blues business today. His efforts are supported by an absolutely stellar cast of Blues Friends on all of his
n' Boogie outfits of the 40's and 50's. He breathes fresh life into Jumpin' & Shouting, “Walking the Table” and “Riding the Blinds”. It all centers around the 88's and Mitch's artistry on a keyboard. Mitch's Ivory touch would make the likes of Professor Long Hair, Fats Domino, Little Richard and Jerry Lee Lewis grin real big. Mitch Woods embodies Big Easy Boogie Woogie that's pushed to the limit, and Mitch transforms every venue that he performs into a “Jump for Joy” dance-hall.
stage shows. Through the years, Bob has explored every facet of his Blues harp's tonal palette and is careful to make every note count. His straight-ahead Blues style is done right and is traditionally versatile. Bob flawlessly moves from raw runaway freight train to Cool Cat easy, locking into each groove with relaxed ease and assurance. Bob Corritore's renderings are groovy, bluzzy, easy to enjoy and pleasingly contagious.
Blues Bender. This young man has amazed Blues audiences and Blues Allstars with his clean, sharp and blazing guitar style. In the past year, Brandon has stepped up on stage with some of the most renowned Blues guitarists on the planet and bent strings with well-seasoned Blues Veterans like Gregg Allman, Gary Clark Jr., Warren Hayes, Steve Vie and many more and simply wowed.
Leon Blue
Mitch Woods “Late Night Boogie-Woogie Bender” Artist at Large... Mitch Woods is a dose of New Orleans R&B, Piledrivin' Piano, Soulful Horns & Crooning Vocals. The genre-morphing Mitch Woods defines that sound and is the mastermind behind a Jivin' look back to the music that gave Birth to Rock & Roll. Mitch Woods has been a torchbearer of American Musical Heritage for over three decades and found inspiration in the great Jump
Artist at Large... Leon may just be the finest blues piano man you have never heard of even though he has had more than his share of high-profile gigs including lengthy spells with The Ike & Tina Turner Revue, Lowell Fulson, and Albert Collins to name just a few. The professional company he has kept speaks volumes about his talent, professionalism, and versatility as a musician. Steeped in Texas pounding boogie-woogie, Leon Blue brings together a smoking keyboard and a warm, seasoned, husky blues voice. Once you've seen Leon, you'll know you've seen the living, breathing definition of a Blues man.
Brandon Niederauer “Taz” Artist at Large... When this 12-yearold guitar prodigy mashes down on his first fret, a room will stand still. Electricity fills the house. The Bender audience can bare witness. Moreover, Taz is coming back to the 2016 Big
Annika Chambers Artist at Large... One of Blues Music's burgeoning talents hails from the former Buffalo Bayou known as Houston, TX. Poised like a Space Center rocket, Annika Chambers' engines are Blues fueled and ready to rock at every performance. Her deep and sultry R&B vocal style decidedly suits her dynamic stage presence. An Annika Chambers performance is a throwback to the days of Koko Taylor with a healthy helping of Tina Turner to boot.
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