Bobby Blackhat

Blues artists have a long history of capturing the essence of historic events through their lyrics. I work hard to keep that tradition alive. When writing about a tragic event such as a hurricane, where so many lives are impacted, I endeavor to do so in respectful, forthright, and compassionate manner. I hope I met that challenge with “Hurricane Blues”.

I have developed a niche as an “Event Inspired Songwriter”, able to quickly respond musically to some of the hot issues of our times. Through my music, I have addressed a myriad of high profile, and often sensitive topics ranging from school shootings, homelessness, election campaigns, and the Pandemic. In the words of Paul Shugrue, PBS/WHRO radio personality, “Bobby has a knack for writing timely songs that we all can relate to”.

Bobby BlackHat, Virginia’s Blues Ambassador, award winning recording artist, harmonica player, vocalist, songwriter, comedian, and producer, blends the influences of Chicago, Memphis, Piedmont, and Delta style blues along with a little Gospel into a Toe Tappin’, Finger Poppin’, Hip Shakin’ blues experience.

Musicians On “Hurricane Blues” include Bobby BlackHat (harmonica, vocals), Danny Lubertazzi (guitar), Brian Eubanks (bass), Cal Hamlin (keyboards), and Michael Behlmar (drums).

Bobby BlackHat, Virginia’s Blues Ambassador, award winning recording artist, harmonica player, vocalist, songwriter, comedian, producer has been playing harmonica for over 46 years. Bobby is a retired U.S. Coast Guard Commander with 27 years of distinguished service which included serving as Military Aide to the President and being awarded the Coast Guard Medal for Heroism.

He has opened for music legends: B.B King, Taj Mahal, Delbert McClinton, Patty Labelle, Ramsey Lewis, and Maze. He has also performed with Eddie Shaw, Kenny Neal, Ruthie Foster, Tas Cru, Jason Ricci, Slam Allen, Mick Kolassa, Fernando Jones., Memphis Gold, and Lurrie Bell. BlackHat is a judge for the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, TN.

In 2017, Bobby won the USAA/We Are The Mighty Mission: Music nationwide competition. In 2016, the Bobby BlackHat Band advanced to the finals of the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, TN. Bobby has won two Blewzzy Awards for “Song of the Year” (I Hear Mama’s Voice, 2012 and Please Mr. BlackHat, 2015). He was also awarded two 2016 VEER Music Awards for “Best Blues” and “Song of the Year” (HRBT Blues).

Bobby BlackHat blends the influences of Chicago, Memphis, Piedmont, and Delta style blues along with a little Gospel into a Toe Tappin’, Finger Poppin’, Hip Shakin’ Blues experience. You Never Know What’s Gonna Happen at a Bobby BlackHat Show!

“I bought my first harp after hearing Lee Oskar play with WAR in 1972. The sound of his harp just mesmerized me and I knew right then and there I was gonna be a harp player too.”

Affiliations Member Blues Foundation River City Blues Society Voting Member Recording Academy Life Member Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. Life Member National Naval Officers Association Life Member Society of White House Military Aides