SoftnBlue

Bonnie Raitt Atlanta Tickets on Sale 2/17 (Marc Cohn, too!)

2012-02-08T14:19:00.000-05:00

Bonnie Raitt's Landmark 2012 Gains Momentum with Nationwide Tour, Performance on 54th Annual GRAMMY Awards® Rolling Stone Premieres "Right Down The Line"

2012 is shaping up to be the year of Bonnie Raitt. On the heels of releasing 'Slipstream,' a bold, soulful effort that marks her first studio release in seven years (April 10, Redwing Records), Raitt embarks on the first leg of her 70-date tour on May 1. Tickets are available for pre-sale starting February 8th at the newly revamped www.bonnieraitt.com. Complete ticketing information for the tour is available now.

Additionally, Raitt, a nine-time GRAMMY® winner, will perform on the 54th Annual GRAMMY Awards® on Sunday, February 12 at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles. Raitt and Alicia Keys will remember Etta James.

Raitt's reinvented version of Gerry Rafferty's hit "Right Down The Line," is the first single from 'Slipstream' and has "just the right note of rueful worldly wisdom - and on her guitar solo, she shreds" (Rolling Stone). The single is currently racing up the AAA radio chart, breaking into the Top 20 in less than 2 weeks and becoming the most added track at the format well in advance of its official radio launch date on February 13.

Hear "Right Down the Line" now on RollingStone.com

Full of heated guitar solos and Raitt's trademark slide guitar, 'Slipstream' is available for presale today at iTunes and Amazon. Called a Best Bet for 2012 by Billboard Magazine, the album will hit all major music retailers nationwide on April 10, including 7,500 Starbucks in North America who will also feature the album track "Down To You" as their "Pick of the Week."

On tour, Marc Cohn will join Raitt as the opening act for the first month of shows on the first leg, with Mavis Staples set to open the latter dates. Raitt will be accompanied by her longtime touring band of James "Hutch" Hutchinson (bass), Ricky Fataar (drums), and George Marinelli (guitar), with the new addition of Mike Finnigan (Joe Cocker, CSN, Etta James, Jimi Hendrix) on keyboards.

Said Raitt of her band, "They're all incredibly talented and we fit like a glove...we've got a great thing going and can't wait to get back out on the road."

A lifelong activist, Raitt also provides benefit tickets for charity at every concert, and as well invites local non-profit organizations to share information about their work with concertgoers. For more information on Special Benefit Seating, go to www.guacfund.org.

Bonnie Raitt 2012 Tour:

May 1 - Newkirk, OK - First Council Casino (on sale 02/11)
May 3 - Durant, OK - Choctaw Casino (on sale now)
May 4 - Vinton, LA - Delta Downs Racetrack & Casino (on sale 02/27)
May 6 - New Orleans, LA - Jazz & Heritage Festival
May 8 - Meridian, MS - MSU Riley Center for Education and the Performing Arts* (on sale 02/20)
May 9 - Atlanta, GA - Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre* (on sale 02/17)
May 12 - Nashville, TN - Ryman Auditorium* (on sale 02/17)
May 13 - Louisville, KY - Whitney Hall at the Kentucky Center* (on sale 02/10)
May 14 - Knoxville, TN - Tennessee Theatre* (on sale 02/10)
May 16 - Indianapolis, IN - Clowes Memorial Hall* (on sale TBD)
May 18 - St. Louis, MO - The Pageant* (on sale 02/17)
May 19 - Chicago, IL - The Chicago Theatre* (on sale 02/11)
May 22 - Midland, MI - Midland Center for the Arts* (on sale 04/02)
May 23 - Akron, OH - Akron Civic Theatre* (on sale 02/17)
May 25 - Ann Arbor, MI - Hill Auditorium* (on sale 04/09)
May 26 - Toronto, ONT - Massey Hall* (on sale 02/11)
May 27 - Rochester, NY - Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre* SOLD OUT
May 30 - Hampton Beach, NH - Casino Ballroom (on sale 02/10)
May 31 - Portland, ME - Merrill Auditorium* (on sale 02/10)
June 2 - Albany, NY - Palace Theatre* (on sale 02/10)
June 3 - Burlington, VT - Burlington Discover Jazz Festival* (on sale 03/19)
June 8 - Holyoke, MA - Mountain Park+ (on sale 2/17)
June 9 - Uncasville, CT - Mohegan Sun Arena+ (on sale 03/09)
June 12 - Charlottesville, VA - nTelos Wireless Pavilion+ (on sale 04/06)
June 13 - Portsmouth, VA - nTelos Harbor Center Pavilion+ (on sale 02/10)
June 14 - Vienna, VA - Wolf Trap+ (on sale 03/24)
June 16 - Philadelphia, PA - Academy of Music+ (on sale TBD)
June 17 - Baltimore, MD - Pier Six Pavilion+ (on sale 02/10)
June 20 - New York, NY - Beacon Theatre+ (on sale 02/17)
June 23 - Boston, MA - Bank of America Pavilion+ (on sale 2/27)
June 24 - Hyannis, MA - Cape Cod Melody Tent+ (on sale 03/03)

*with Marc Cohn
+with Mavis Staples

Pre-sale tickets available at www.bonnieraitt.com.

Stars of Tomorrow Finalists Take the Stage at the Fox Theatre on March 11

2012-01-19T13:29:00.000-05:00

Variety of Georgia Stages Talent Competition to Crown First Champion at Celebrated City Landmark

This fall, Variety of Georgia announced its inaugural talent competition, Stars of Tomorrow, and eligible hopefuls across the state submitted videos of their best performances. After much deliberation and two rounds of preliminary judging, the top 10 finalists will take the stage this spring.

Stars of Tomorrow hosts its final competition at The Fox Theatre on March 11. The showcase raises the curtain on the top 10 vocalists as they perform highly anticipated acts for an eager audience. Friends and family join show-business veterans and community influencers for an evening of fun, philanthropy and dream-chasing as Stars of Tomorrow crowns its champion.

The top 10 Stars of Tomorrow finalists include:

Jenna Bass, age 17, Lilburn resident
Kirstyn Burkhalter, age 15, Snellville resident
Lydia Flock, age 15, Atlanta resident
Nariah Francis, age 17, Atlanta resident
Lauren Hill, age 13, Flowery Branch resident
Lindsey Marcus, age 15, Dunwoody resident
Daniel Mata, age 15, Marietta resident
Krysta Nick, age 14, Peachtree City resident
Destini Shelton, age 16, Douglasville resident
Marguerite Yearns, age 13, Sandy Springs resident

The winner of the Stars of Tomorrow singing competition will enjoy a trip for four to Universal Studios Hollywood, including accommodations, park access and transportation. The talented teen also receives an audition for the Theater of the Stars series in Atlanta, a professional photo shoot, a custom-made demo CD and tickets to an upcoming performance at The Fox Theatre.

The first and second runners-up each receive an audition for the Theater of the Stars series in Atlanta, a professional photo shoot, a custom-made demo CD and tickets to an upcoming performance at The Fox Theatre.

Stars of Tomorrow benefits Variety of Georgia initiatives across the state and aims to shine a light on Georgia’s promising young talent. Event co-chairs Carolyn Lee Wills and Former Chief Barker Mike Dangerfield help further the organization’s commitment to enhancing the lives of area youth. Through this competition, teens not only showcase their chops for industry leaders but develop skills they will use for years to come.

Ticket sales for the final Stars of Tomorrow competition benefit Variety of Georgia. To purchase tickets, or to learn more about the top 10 finalists, visit www.varietystarsoftomorrow.com.

For more information, contact Chase Evangeline Andrews at 678.994.4210 or chase@varietyofgeorgia.org.

About Variety of Georgia, Tent 21

Tent 21 was established in Atlanta in 1939 as the 21st chapter of Variety International, commonly known as the World's Greatest Children's Charity. Variety of Georgia is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization.

The charity’s mission is to aid and enhance the lives of children in need who may be challenged by physical and/or mental disabilities, poverty, abuse or neglect. Echoing the first Variety fundraising event, a circus-themed affair held under a big-top, clubs are often called "Tents" and members "Barkers.”

Following the tradition of the founders of the first Tent in Pittsburgh, Pa., 80 percent of the members of Tent 21 hail from the motion picture industry, though membership is open to all who care about children.

Daughtry Announces First Leg of its "Break the Spell 2012 Tour" -- Atlanta, March 27th

2012-01-17T12:33:00.000-05:00

Daughtry joins the fight against malaria, donating $1 of every ticket sold to "Malaria No More"

Special Guest Pop Rock Group SafetySuit and Opening the Show is Singer Songwriter Mike Sanchez

DAUGHTRY has announced the first leg of its upcoming tour in support of the multi-platinum selling rock band’s third album, Break The Spell (19 Recordings/RCA Records). Tickets for the Cobb Energy Centre date go on sale Friday January 27th.

Daughtry’s “Break The Spell Tour” will begin its first leg on March 20 in Buffalo, NY and continue through April 30 when it concludes in New York, NY. Singer Chris Daughtry, guitarists Josh Steely and Brian Craddock, bassist Josh Paul and drummer Robin Diaz are excited to bring their bigger than life show into theaters across the country to provide an intimate experience for fans.

Daughtry is pleased to welcome special guest Nashville-based pop rock group SafetySuit whose new album These Times. debuted No. 7 on the Billboard Top 200 chart. Opening the show is singer-songwriter Mike Sanchez.

Daughtry is also dedicated to using its position to raise awareness about a number of charitable causes. For the "Break The Spell 2012 Tour," the band will help combat Africa's battle against malaria by donating $1 from every ticket sold to Malaria No More, a leading humanitarian organization determined to end malaria deaths in Africa by 2015.

The upcoming first leg of the tour will give fans a chance to experience a number of new tracks from Break The Spell, like the chart-climbing hits “Crawling Back To You” and “Renegade.” Singer Chris Daughtry says: “We recorded a hard-hitting rock album that is primed to blow the doors off these great theaters. Fans who come out are going to get an incredible show every night.”

Daughtry has scored four No. 1 hits, garnered four Grammy nominations, sold over seven million albums and played sold out concerts around the world in less than four years. Daughtry’s self-titled debut was the fastest selling rock debut in Soundscan history and its follow up Leave This Town marked the quintet’s second consecutive No. 1 album. Daughtry’s latest album Break The Spell, which was certified gold in 4 weeks, builds on the band’s reputation for melodic hooks and anthemic choruses while providing a powerful showcase for Chris Daughtry’s emotionally resonant voice.

BREAK THE SPELL TOUR

March

20 Buffalo, NY Shea's Performing Arts Center
21 Reading, PA Reading Eagle Theater at the Sovereign Center
24 Toronto, ON Massey Hall
25 Cleveland, OH Palace Theatre
27 Atlanta, GA Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre
28 Little Rock, AR Robinson Center Music Hall
30 Nashville, TN Ryman Auditorium
31 Louisville, KY Louisville Palace Theater

April

2 Columbus, OH Veteran's Memorial
3 Cincinnati, OH Music Hall
4 Pittsburgh, PA Benedum Center
7 Greensboro, NC Greensboro Coliseum
9 Charlotte, NC Ovens Auditorium
11 Clearwater, FL Ruth Eckerd Hall
14 Boca Raton, FL Mizner Park Amphitheater
15 Jacksonville, FL Moran Theatre at the Times Union Center
17 Columbia, SC Township Auditorium
18 Richmond, VA Landmark Theater
20 W. Long Branch, NJ The MAC at Monmouth University
21 Syracuse, NY Landmark Theater
23 Lowell, MA Lowell Memorial
24 Newark, NJ NJ PAC
27 Mashantucket, CT Foxwoods
28 Albany, NY Palace Theater
30 New York, NY Hammerstein Ballroom

For a complete list of on-sales for the first leg of the tour, please visit: http://www.aeglive.com

Stay in touch with the latest on Daughtry:
http://www.daughtryofficial.com
http://www.twitter.com/chris_daughtry
http://www.myspace.com/daughtry
http://www.facebook.com/daughtry
http://www.last.fm/music/Daughtry

Wynton Marsalis And Eric Clapton Play The Blues Erupts onto the Big Screen Featuring Sold-Out Performance From Jazz at Lincoln Center

2011-08-21T07:16:00.002-04:00

One-Night Concert In-Theater Event Presented by NCM Fathom and Reprise Records in Nearly 550 Select Theaters Nationwide on September 7

Grammy Award® winning artists Wynton Marsalis and Eric Clapton will offer fans a spellbinding evening of blues and jazz in Wynton Marsalis and Eric Clapton Play the Blues, a one-night in-theater concert event broadcast to nearly 550 movie theaters nationwide on Wednesday, September 7, at 7:30 p.m. local time. The concert also includes a special appearance by blues musician Taj Mahal, who joins the duo for two songs, as well as exclusive behind-the-scenes rehearsal footage. This intimate performance from Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Rose Theater at Frederick P. Rose Hall in New York City brings together an unrivaled cross-generational, cross-cultural collaboration as the pair of musical virtuosos brought to life a repertoire of songs selected by Clapton and arranged by Marsalis. Captured this past spring from Jazz at Lincoln Center’s renowned annual gala, the iconic duo, performed to a sell-out crowd.

Tickets for Wynton Marsalis and Eric Clapton Play the Blues are available at participating theater box offices and online at www.FathomEvents.com. For a complete list of theater locations and prices, visit the NCM Fathom website (theaters and participants are subject to change).

Presented by NCM Fathom and Reprise Records, Wynton Marsalis and Eric Clapton Play the Blues will be broadcast nationwide through NCM’s exclusive Digital Broadcast Network.

“We’re playing music we know and love,” says Marsalis.

Marsalis is a trumpeter, composer, bandleader, music educator and Artistic Director of Jazz at Lincoln Center. He has been awarded nine Grammy awards and “Blood on the Fields” was the first jazz piece to win the Pulitzer Prize for Music.

Clapton is the only three-time inductee to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame: once as a solo artist and separately as a member of the bands The Yardbirds and Cream. Clapton, a 17-time Grammy award winner, has been referred to as one of the most important and influential guitarists of all time.

“Jazz at Lincoln Center is truly one of the most distinguished producers of jazz music in the country,” said Dan Diamond, vice president of NCM Fathom. “Both jazz and blues enthusiasts alike will be left speechless by the eclectic mix of music and heartfelt performances of this power-duo.”

About National CineMedia (NCM)

NCM operates NCM Media Networks, a leading integrated media company reaching U.S. consumers in movie theaters, online and through mobile technology. The NCM Cinema Network and NCM Fathom present cinema advertising and events across the nation’s largest digital in-theater network, comprised of theaters owned by AMC Entertainment Inc., Cinemark Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: CNK), Regal Entertainment Group (NYSE: RGC) and other leading regional theater circuits. NCM’s theater advertising network covers 175 Designated Market Areas® (49 of the top 50) and includes over 18,100 screens (16,800 digital). During 2010, over 690 million patrons attended movies shown in theaters in which NCM currently has exclusive, cinema advertising agreements in place. The NCM Fathom Events broadcast network is comprised of nearly 700 locations in 165 Designated Market Areas® (all of the top 50). The NCM Interactive Network offers 360-degree integrated marketing opportunities in combination with cinema, encompassing 42 entertainment-related websites, online widgets and mobile applications. National CineMedia, Inc. (NASDAQ: NCMI) owns a 48.7% interest in and is the managing member of National CineMedia LLC. For more information, visit www.nationalcinemedia.com or www.ncm.com.

Kansas Carries On, Continues with 2011 Collegiate Symphony Tour to Raise Funds for College Music Programs

2011-07-27T20:20:00.002-04:00

After the groundbreaking and universally successful 2010 KANSAS Collegiate Symphony Tour, legendary rock band KANSAS is not only continuing, but expanding the tour for the fall of 2011. The 2011 KANSAS Collegiate Symphony Tour will again help raise funds and awareness for college and university music programs.

Original member and drummer, Phil Ehart had this to say about last year’s concerts. “KANSAS and all the school symphonies just hit it off big time! The only people having more fun than us were all the students playing on stage with us! And considering all the money that was raised to help the music departments, everyone considered it a real success! We know this year will be bigger and better!”

The 2010 tour, which was inspired by their DVD “There’s Know Place Like Home,” saw KANSAS joined by conductor Larry Baird, and performing concerts with symphonies from the University of Alabama; University of Texas, San Antonio; Wichita State University; Oklahoma State University; Hardin-Simmons University; and Truman State University. Eugene Dowdy, Music Director and Conductor at University of Texas, San Antonio raved, “This was the biggest show my students have ever played – there were people everywhere! This is a visionary collaboration that resonates on every level…it is fantastic!” Presenting sponsor D’Addario & Company will once again be joining KANSAS in their effort to raise funds and awareness for college and university music programs. D’Addario, the world’s largest musical products accessory manufacturer, brings products to market under the brand names D’Addario; Planet Waves; Rico Reeds; and Evans/PureSound/HQ percussion products. Jay Bulen, Chair of the Truman State University Music Department explains, “The support from D’Addario is tremendous. In the fall of 2011, we will have two new scholarships for incoming string players because of this. It will help us build our music program.”

“D’Addario & Company is excited, once again, to be the presenting sponsor for the 2011 KANSAS Collegiate Symphony Tour,” commented D’Addario Vice President of Sales & Marketing, David Via. “Last year’s concerts were exciting, once-in-a-lifetime, events for the participating institutions and their students. Our scholarship and product donation is but a small way we can assist, along with KANSAS, in providing some much needed funding assistance to schools who are faced with departmental cut-backs,” Via stated.

With their self-titled first album released in 1974, KANSAS went on to become one of the decade’s most popular rock acts – issuing classic rock albums such as 1976’s ‘Leftoverture’ and 1977’s ‘Point of Know Return,’ along with the hit singles “Carry on Wayward Son” and “Dust In the Wind,” and “Point of Know Return.” The band – which in addition to Ehart, is comprised of singer/keyboardist Steve Walsh, guitarist Rich Williams, bassist Billy Greer, and violinist David Ragsdale – continue to tour in front of large and enthusiastic audiences and to this day remain a fixture on classic rock radio.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT:
www.kansasband.com
www.facebook.com/kansasband
www.daddarioinc.com

Jo Dee Messina & Jimmy Wayne in Concert June 18 at ‘The Fred’ in Peachtree City

2011-06-05T20:49:00.002-04:00

Say “Bye, Bye Love” and head to ‘The Fred’ as Country music takes center stage in the 2011 BMW of South Atlanta Summer Concert Series with Jo Dee Messina and special guest Jimmy Wayne on Saturday, June 18. Reserved seating is available for the show through ‘The Fred’ Box Office in Peachtree City, and on-line with TicketAlternative.com.

Multi-platinum and award-winning country singer/songwriter Jo Dee Messina has sold over five million albums, has 9 #1 singles, two Grammy nominations in addition to awards by the CMA and ACM, Jo Dee Messina is one of country’s most loved and enduring hit makers. Jo Dee is best known for hits like “Heads Carolina, Tales California”, “You’re Not in Kansas Anymore”, “Bye Bye”, “Bring on the Rain”, and more. The evening will also feature special guest Jimmy Wayne who has been on the country charts with hits like “Do You Believe Me Now”, “Stay Gone”, and a remake of the Hall & Oates classic “Sara Smile”.

Enjoy an evening under the stars with Jo Dee Messina and special guest Jimmy Wayne at ‘The Fred’ in Peachtree City, Saturday, June 18. Gates open at 7 p.m., Jimmy Wayne kicks off the night at 8 p.m., with Jo Dee Messina taking the stage at 9 p.m. For more information about the artists check them out on-line at www.jodeemessina.com, and www.thevalorymusicco.com/jimmywayne. A limited number of reserved seats priced at $45-65 are still available and can be purchased on-line at www.amphitheater.org or the venue box office. For more information call (770) 631-0630.

The Frederick Brown Jr. Amphitheater is a 2,500 seat state-of-the art facility owned and operated by the city of Peachtree City. ‘The Fred’ box office, located at 201 McIntosh Trail, is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Box office opens at 4:00 p.m. on concert day. On-line ticketing for events is through Ticket Alternative, and a link to their site is available through the amphitheater website www.amphitheater.org. For further information regarding the Frederick Brown Jr. Amphitheater or the concert events, please call 770-631-0630.

Have to admit...

2011-04-28T20:05:00.000-04:00

I'm a rather wishy-washy American Idol watcher. I listen late in the season, if at all. If I like someone I'll keep the tube on while working on the computer, go in and turn it up when whoever it is sings. Last night with all the bad weather I was glued to the TV, had my computers unplugged due to the massive amount of lightening. I can lose a TV and not care, can't survive without my computers!

This season there are a few I like, but I think James Durbin tops the list. I like raspy voiced musicians so Haley Reinhart is one I like, too. But I'm from Georgia so it won't hurt my feelings if Lauren Alaina wins. Those are the only ones I can think of at the moment (OK, I admit, I had to go to the website and look for their names...).

I missed Durbin's song last night due to the weather alerts so when someone posted his song on Facebook I had to give it a listen. I loved it. Oh, I liked that country guy's song, too. Crud, now I have to go back to the website and look up another name. Hang on a sec. Scotty McCreery.

Here's Durbin's song, Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow.

Kris Kristofferson In Concert

2011-04-24T21:12:00.002-04:00

Kris Kristofferson In Concert
May 21st, 2011 at 7:00 PM
Tickets on Sale April 22nd

The Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds is proud to present three-time Grammy winner, member of the Songwriter's Hall of Fame, the Nashville Songwriter's Hall of Fame and Best Actor Golden Globe Winner Kris Kristofferson as he plays at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds in Hiawassee Georgia on May 21st, 201 at 7 PM.

Kristofferson's path to musical success is far from standard. Born in Texas and raised in a military family, he followed in the tradition by serving in the army as an Airbone Ranger helicopter pilot and achieved the rank of captain. After turning down an assignment to teach at West Point, Kristofferson chose to pursue his dream to create music after becoming inspired by songwriters like Willie Nelson and Johnny Cash, two close friends. Kristofferson broke out into the national music scene as a country songwriter, including such hits as "Me and Bobby McGee," "Help Me Make it Through the Night," "Sunday Morning Coming Down," and "For the Good Times," all chart topping hits that helped the re-defined sound of country music.

Don't miss Kris Kristofferson as he takes the stage in the beautiful North Georgia Mountains in Hiawassee at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds 2900 seat, air conditioned Music Hall. Tickets go on sale April 22nd and are $40 + $2 Handling Fee.

HOW TO BUY TICKETS: Tickets are available at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds Office, Online, Or by phone (706) 896-4191.

The Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds
Highway 76, West of Hiawassee, GA 30546
Email: gamtfair@windstream.net
(706) 896-4191
www.georgiamountainfairgrounds.com

Randy Rogers Band Performs Mar 25 at Buckhead Theatre

2011-03-09T16:27:00.000-05:00

Doors open at 8 p.m. $16 in advance; $21 at the door; Buckhead Theatre 3110 Roswell Road, Atlanta; www.TicketMaster.com or www.thebuckheadtheatre.com

Since their debut album, Live at Cheatham Street Warehouse, in 2000, The Randy Rogers Band has built its audience by combining the forces of a dynamic live act centered around songs that fit the rowdy, party vibe of the concert circuit, with songs that also say something. Touring more than 200 days a year, they have opened for the likes of Willie Nelson and The Eagles, and landed spots on “The Tonight Show With Jay Leno” and “Late Show With David Letterman.” The band’s fifth album, Burning The Day, was released in August 2010 and debuted at #2 on the Billboard country albums chart, the band’s highest-ever charting position.

The 18th Annual Blind Willie McTell Blues Festival

2011-02-24T22:14:00.000-05:00

Earlier this week the Activities Council of Thomson, Inc. announced the lineup for the 18th Annual Blind Willie McTell Blues Festival, to be held on Saturday, May 21, 2011. The annual one day fest, voted by Southeastern Tourism writers as one of the top small cultural events in the Southeast, will be held at the regular festival site, on Stagecoach Road, 300 yards off Washington Highway, north of Thomson, Georgia.

The event is held each year to bring great music and musicians to the rural South, as well as pay tribute to country blues legend McTell, a Thomson native son, born and buried in the Happy Valley area of McDuffie County. The small town feel and exceptional quality of the music presented year in and year out, makes the McTell Festival a special event indeed. Annually, the organizers strive to feature artists who offer the best in American music, focusing on the styles of Americana, folk, gospel, rock, blues and all its variations….players that our smaller market can support; music played by folks at the top of their game. Again, that’s what will be presented in Thomson on 2011

This year’s stellar roster features headliner and closing act Trombone Shorty and Orleans Avenue, and includes Marcia Ball, Sonny Landreth, Jimmy Hall & the Prisoners of Love featuring Jack Pearson, the Georgia Horns featuring Chris Crenshaw and Marcus Printup, Jack Pearson, Atlanta's Mark Miller & Travelin Shoes, and Crosstie Walkers.

The jazzy, funk side of blues will be represented at the festival in the form of none other than Trombone Shorty, along with his combo Orleans Avenue. This act is one of the hottest touring bands today and they’ll come through Thomson after working the Main Stage at New Orleans Jazzfest in April, 2011. His latest disc “Backatown”, released in 2010, was nominated for a GRAMMY and currently sits in the top 10 on Billboard’s jazz charts. Says New Orleans native Troy Andrews or ‘Shorty’, “What we do is just another word for 'gumbo . . . we make different music fit in one mixture that has a funky and huge rock edge to it.” The McTell Fest has never really featured great horn players and what an act to get it started.

Four time GRAMMY Nominee Marcia Ball knows how to get after it onstage with her infectious and emotional brand of rollicking, roadhouse blues and ballads. Over the course of her three-decade career, Ball and her crackerjack combo have earned a huge and intensely loyal following all over the world. Her piano playing and passionate, playful vocals fuse New Orleans and Gulf Coast R&B with Austin's deep songwriting tradition into a sound all her own. Ms Ball has been to Thomson before as our headliner and after a ton of requests from our patrons, we are glad she is coming back to east Georgia. She’s the winner of eight Blues Music Awards - four wins in the last five years for Best Piano Player, plus recent wins for Best Contemporary Blues - Female Artist (twice), and once each for Contemporary Blues Album for So Many Rivers and Blues Album of the Year for Presumed Innocent. Her latest release, titled Peace, Love & BBQ debuted at #1 in the Billboard Blues Charts.

The rest of the artists in this year’s lineup are equally as impressive as our headliners. Jimmy Hall & the Prisoners of Love featuring Jack Pearson are the very essence of a harmonica based, soul-shouting, blues combo. Pick up a copy of Hall’s “Rendezvous with the Blues” prior to the festival if you need any more proof. With Jack Pearson, one of Nashville’s premier players holding down guitar, this band will be something to see. Hall led 70’s southern rockers, Wet Willie, and sings, plays harp and sax, is a favorite of Georgia audiences.

Along with Jack Pearson (who’ll play a mini-set on his own), we’ll also feature another absolute guitar giant, Sonny Landreth. Landreth also comes from Louisiana and his style of playing the slide guitar is nothing short of phenomenal. He’s been leading a trio for awhile, but check the collaborations that he keeps and you can tell that he’s a guitar player’s player. His latest disc, From the Reach, features guitar duets on Landreth originals with the likes of Mark Knopfler, Eric Clapton, Eric Johnson, Robben Ford, and Vince Gill, to name a few. He’s working on a new disc, to be released this spring, and he’ll make it into town on the heels of an appearance on the Main stage of the N.O. Jazz Fest as well.

Crosstie Walkers from Thomson usually represent east Georgia at the festival and they’ll be opening up again this year. But along with this Thomson band, we’re proud to present another act this year with local roots. In a combo put together especially for the festival, we’ll present the Georgia Horns, featuring Thomson’s Chris Crenshaw on trombone and Conyers native, Marcus Printup on trumpet.

Both Chris and Marcus have regular jobs playing and touring in New York’s Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra led by Wynton Marsalis. Crenshaw has been itching to play here in his hometown for awhile, and we were finally able to squeeze his booking into his busy schedule. The set will be called Swinging the Blues with the Georgia Horns. Along with Crenshaw and Printup, local sax player, Stantawn Kendrick will be in the sextet as well.

Newcomers, Mark Miller and Travelin Shoes, a gospel and blues based string band from Atlanta, will be featured this year. These guys just released a set of Willie McTell gospel tunes called Ain’t it Grand…the Gospel Songs of Willie McTell and if you like McTell’s music, you’ll love these interpretations.

Mentioned earlier, Thomson’s Crosstie Walkers will also open up the day at the 2011 event. They will be showcasing music from over twenty years of playing together, both originals and covers that they make their own.

As in years gone by, there will be an array of vendors serving traditional Southern food and beverages…..ribs, chicken, fish, Cajun, great dishes that go hand in hand with the music that will be on tap that day. Carry in food and drink will not be allowed. Children 12 and under are admitted free. Advance tickets for the Saturday afternoon show will be $25. Tickets will go on sale in mid-March, and will be available locally at the Chamber office, as well as, on line at www.blindwillie.com. For info, visit www.blindwillie.com or the Blind Willie McTell Facebook page.
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www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
Twitter:
@artsacrossga
@softnblue (music & dance)
@RimbomboAAG (books, authors +)
Facebook: http://facebook.com/ArtsAcrossGA

Buckhead Theatre Presents: Robert Earl Keen in March, Brooke Fraser in June

2011-02-24T21:05:00.000-05:00

Tickets On Sale Saturday, February 26, 2011

Robert Earl Keen
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Doors open at 8 p.m.

Buckhead Theatre
3110 Roswell Road
Atlanta, GA 30305

TICKETS: $26 adv
On sale Saturday, February 26, 2011 at 10am
www.ticketmaster.com
Show is general admission and open to all ages.

ABOUT ROBERT EARL KEEN

Robert Earl Keen, one of Texas’s best-known alt-country/folk artists, returns to the Buckhead Theatre March 31, following up a sold-out concert in November. Recording since the early 1980’s, Keen has been wowing country fans for years with over 15 albums of well-loved country music. Known for his extensive touring and incredible live shows, Robert Earl Keen grew in popularity in the 1990’s with a touring schedule that often included 200 tour dates per year. A dedicated and talented musician, fans should grab tickets now as this show is sure to sell out again.

Brooke Fraser
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Doors open at 7 p.m.

Buckhead Theatre
3110 Roswell Road
Atlanta, GA 30305

TICKETS: $20 adv - On sale Saturday, February 26, 2011 at 10am
www.ticketmaster.com
Show is general admission and open to all ages.

ABOUT BROOKE FRASER

New Zealand’s Brooke Fraser is known for heart-wrenching, confessional lyrics layered over haunting folk-pop melodies. Fraser has toured Australia and New Zealand with artists including John Mayer and David Bowie, and her last headlining Atlanta show sold out. Trained in piano as a child and self-taught on guitar, Fraser has been a staple of the Contemporary Christian and folk scenes since her 2003 debut What To Do With Daylight. She followed that album up with 2006’s Albertine, inspired by her time with disadvantaged children in Africa. Now touring in support of her third album, Flags, Fraser will play the Buckhead Theatre for one night only June 7.

Buckhead Theatre Shows On Sale Now:

Friday, February 25: Old 97’s, Those Darlins | $20 adv
Saturday, March 19: Cloris! A One Woman Show | $30, $50, $75
Friday, March 25: Randy Rogers Band, Stoney LaRue | $16 adv, $21 at the door
Friday, May 20: Of Montreal, Modern Skirts, Painted Palms | $23 adv

Buckhead Theatre has received recent accolades for its diversity of programming as well as the many sold out, critically acclaimed artists that have come through the six month old venue. Recent sold out shows have included: Scissor Sisters, Drive-By Truckers, Indigo Girls, Mumford & Sons, Robert Earl Keen, Dresden Dolls and Pat Green.

Charlie Daniels In Concert March 5, 2011 - 7 PM

2011-02-18T11:44:00.003-05:00

Tickets on Sale Now
Ticket Prices are $35 + $2 Handling & $25 + $2 Handling

Charlie Daniels began writing and performing country music in the early 1950s. In 1964, Daniels sold one of his songs, "It Hurts Me" to Elvis Presley. Charlie Daniels recorded his first major hit, "Uneasy Rider" off his second, 1972 album. He won a Grammy for Best Country Vocal in 1979 for "The Devil Went Down to Georgia". Other hits include "In America", "The South's Gonna Do It", "Long Haired Country Boy", "Still in Saigon", and "The Legend of Wooley Swamp".

Don't miss legendary, Charlie Daniels as he takes the stage on March 19, 2011. The concert will be held in a 2900 seat, Air Conditioed hall at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds located in the beautiful mountains of Hiawassee, Georgia. Tickets go on sale February 4th and prices are $37. For more information visit us online or call (706-896-4191).

HOW TO BUY TICKETS: Tickets are available at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds Office, Online, Or by phone (706) 896-4191.
The Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds
Highway 76, West of Hiawassee, GA 30546
Email: gamtfair@windstream.net
(706) 896-4191
www.georgiamountainfairgrounds.com

An Acoustic Evening with Travis Tritt

2011-01-20T08:14:00.002-05:00

Saturday, January 29, 2011
Doors open at 7 p.m.

Buckhead Theatre
3110 Roswell Road
Atlanta, GA 30305

Tickets range from $50-$75
www.ticketmaster.com
Show is reserved seating and open to all ages.

Travis Tritt, one of the leading country singers and one of the first country artists to infuse rock & blues into the world of country music, brings his magic to Atlanta for an acoustic performance at Atlanta’s landmark Buckhead Theatre. His bluesy, Southern rock sound and gutsy outlaw image distinguished him from fellow country artists. Tritt produced a string of platinum albums and Top Ten singles throughout his music career, including three number one hits as well as two Grammy-Awards. Visit www.thebuckheadtheatre.com for more information.

Atlanta Symphony Orchestra Receives $1.85 Million Endowment Gift from the Mabel Dorn Reeder Foundation

2011-01-19T08:29:00.000-05:00

The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra announced today it has received commitment of a $1.85 million endowment gift from the Mabel Dorn Reeder Foundation. In recognition of this contribution, the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra will establish The Mabel Dorn Reeder Honorary Chair.

The Mabel Dorn Reeder Honorary Chair will be awarded, based on merit, for a period of five years to an Atlanta Symphony Orchestra musician who demonstrates excellence in musical artistry, leadership, collegiality and community engagement. The chair may be granted to any tenured Orchestra member, including those who already occupy a named chair. Recipients will be awarded a one-time $10,000 stipend at the start of their five-year term as the honoree, to be utilized for professional development. The award will be celebrated every five years.

“Mrs. Reeder called Atlanta home for most of her life and wholly understood the value a fine orchestra can have to a growing city,” said Brian Frank, Co-Trustee of the Mabel Dorn Reeder Foundation. “Building upon her long-time support of the Woodruff Arts Center and the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, the Mabel Dorn Reeder Honorary Chair is an exceptional tribute to her love of music. The Foundation is delighted that her name and her generosity will be preserved in such a meaningful way.”

“This extraordinary gift from the Mabel Dorn Reeder Foundation adds to the future financial security of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra while recognizing and nurturing the exceptional talent of the musicians on stage,” said Atlanta Symphony Orchestra Board Chairman Ben Johnson. “We are very grateful to the Foundation trustees for this generous investment and for the opportunity to acknowledge Mabel Dorn Reeder with the honorary chair. Mrs. Reeder was a special friend to the Woodruff Arts Center and the Orchestra and we are honored to play a part in her Atlanta legacy."

“The Mabel Dorn Reeder Honorary Chair is a compelling testament of passion for great music and musicians,” said Atlanta Symphony Orchestra President Stanley E. Romanstein. “This historic contribution also represents a new model for supporting the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra — in which a contribution can transcend Symphony Hall and marry our institutional goals with unique philanthropic vision. The Mabel Dorn Reeder Foundation's honorary chair model will inspire others to think outside of the traditional named gift, and I look forward to the creativity and generosity gifts like this will undoubtedly inspire.”

Congrats to ASO, wish everyone would donate a dollar or two or million! - SoftnBlue

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One Night of Queen Rocks Atlanta

2011-01-18T16:06:00.000-05:00

On the April 30, 2011 the UK’s hottest and most successful rock show ‘One Night of Queen’ which celebrates the music of Freddie Mercury and Queen is coming to the Cobb Energy Centre.

In 1985 following their appearance on Live Aid, Queen were Internationally acclaimed as the best live band on Earth with Freddie Mercury as the greatest live performer of his generation. Few performers could ever hope to match his unique talent.

Since winning ITV’s ‘Stars in their Eyes’ Gary Mullen has been recognized world-wide as the closest thing to Freddie. His voice, persona and portrayal send a shiver down your spine and leaves your hairs standing on end. He and his band ‘The Works’ recreate the excitement and atmosphere of a live Queen concert to unmatched perfection.

Nine years of touring has seen One Night of Queen build a reputation for regularly selling out large theatres and concert halls, across the UK, Europe and the World!

In the USA alone they sold over 150,000 tickets over 3 tours (2008, 2009 & 2010) where they sold out in more than 125 cities. Demand is such that they are already scheduled to return in 2011 to conquer even more states and cities over a 10 week, 50 date tour period.

One Night of Queen returned to Hyde Park ‘BBC Proms in the Park’ in September 2009 for the second time. This follows their 2005 appearance where they shared the stage with Andrea Bocelli, G4 and Simply Red. Being described as “the highlight of the day” and receiving rapturous applause from 45,000 fans, cemented One Night of Queen’s reputation as being “much more than a tribute”.

“Mullen brought legendary Queen front man Freddie Mercury back to life in a two-hour energy-filled concert that had toddlers to grandparents dancing in the aisles.” The Salt Lake Tribune

“We’ve seen a lot of Tribute bands in our lives, but nothing that in any way, shape or form, comes close to One Night Of Queen!” Out On The Town magazine, Pennsylvania

The show features fantastic hits such as ‘We Will Rock You’, ‘We Are The Champions’, ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’, ‘Radio GaGa’, ‘It’s A Kind Of Magic’ and many more.

This is your chance to see this phenomenal live concert.

If you like hot rock you’ll love ‘One Night of Queen’.
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Twitter:
@artsacrossga
@softnblue (music & dance)
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Live Art: Spanish Harlem Orchestra

2011-01-18T13:03:00.002-05:00

The University of West Georgia’s Townsend Center presents the fourth annual Live Art performance starring the Spanish Harlem Orchestra on Jan. 22 at 7:30 p.m.

Since their founding in 2000, Spanish Harlem Orchestra has established itself as the standard bearer of contemporary Latin music. Directed by world-renowned pianist, arranger, and producer Oscar Hernández, the thirteen-member all-star ensemble has reintroduced the classic sounds of New York City Salsa to music lovers worldwide. Tickets are $38 for adults and $10 for students. For more information contact the Townsend Center at 678-839-4722 or to purchase a ticket visit townsendcenter.org

Georgia Boy Choir Rehearsals canceled for January 10, 2011

2011-01-10T09:49:00.000-05:00

All Georgia Boy Choir Rehearsals are canceled for January 10, 2011 due to inclement weather. Georgia Boy Choir rehearsals are located at 4300 Northside Dr. in Atlanta. www.georgiaboychoir.org

Georgia Boy Choir Auditions Now Being Held

2011-01-09T22:04:00.000-05:00

I received a press notice from the Georgia Boy Choir saying they're holding auditions. They sent a pdf file, which means I have to re-type it and I'm just basically lazy so I thought I'd write a short blog instead. Yep, I prefer to copy and paste, so shoot me.

It's for boys 5 to 12. I can see from reading the pdf that there are a lot of great benefits and opportunities. I'll let you go to the web page to read about them... The phone number for more info is 404-402-4083, the web address is...well, it's not on the pdf. Huh. Let's see if the 'register here' button works... yup, it works. It took me to www.georgiaboychoir.org/audition (no S after boy).

I've heard the Georgia Boy Choir and they are fabulous. If you have a boy in the age bracket who has a voice that more than just Mom thinks is good, give it a shot.

Here's a sampling:

99X Announced Mistle Toe Jam

2010-11-30T16:18:00.002-05:00

Switchfoot, American Bang and Paper Tongues Scheduled to Appear

After a two-year hiatus, 99X, Atlanta's Alternative rock station now on 97.9FM, has announced the return of its legendary holiday concert, Mistle Toe Jam. This year's concert, taking place at Center Stage Atlanta on December 7, 2010, will feature performances from Switchfoot, American Bang and Paper Tongues. Past performers have included: Modest Mouse, Silversun Pickups, The Shins, OK GO, Jet and AFI amongst others.

Mistle Toe Jam tickets are on sale for $19.79 at all Ticketmaster locations, online at ticketmaster.com, or charge by phone at (800) 745-3000. Mistle Toe Jam is 21+ and brought to you by Bacardi.

When: December 7, 2010
7p.m. - Doors
8 p.m. - Show

Where: Center Stage
1374 W. Peachtree Street NW
Atlanta, GA 30309
404.875.9364

Who: Switchfoot, American Bang and Paper Tongues
Cost: $19.79. www.ticketmaster.com
Ages: 21+
Website: www.99X.com
Parking: There is ample parking beneath Center Stage and in the surrounding areas. Cash only.

Canadian Tenors to Make Southeast Debut Nov 20th

2010-11-10T21:05:00.000-05:00

Atlanta Symphony Hall, Memorial Arts Building, Woodruff Arts Center

Saturday, November 20, 2010, 8:00 p.m.

Canadian Tenors
Members of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra

Single tickets for these performances are $25 to $75. All single tickets for the 2010–2011 are on sale now, and available online at atlantasymphony.org, or by calling (404) 733-5000. Tickets may also be purchased at the Woodruff Arts Center Box Office, located in the Woodruff Arts Center at 15th and Peachtree Streets. Box office hours are Monday through Friday 10:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

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Heard them on PBS or PBA or GPTV, one of those public broadcasting stations... the Candadian Tenors are fantastic, wonderful, awesome! I'm going to see them when they're here so will let you know how they are live. Talk about a switcheroo when it comes to music --- the following weekend I'm going to see Joe Bonamassa at the Rivers Center in Columbus! If I could see Eric Clapton the following weekend, then Gary Moore the next, then Steve Vai, then Jackson Browne, Scorpions, John Legend, um, the list is long. Ah, another concert I want to see when it hits town is Elton John and Leon Russell. Boz Scaggs... Neil Young... Santana... Creed... Hinder...

Joe Bonamassa LIVE in Columbus, GA Nov 27

2010-11-08T11:01:00.001-05:00

Joe Bonamassa (@jbonamassa on Twitter) is going to be at the River Center for the Performing Arts in Columbus, Georgia on November 27th. It is going to be a fantastically phenomenal concert... and I'm gonna be there!

Joe has been playing and touring professionally since he was a baby! His first tour was with B.B. King!!! I can't begin to imagine what it must have been like. Here's a snippet from his "about" page:

"A child prodigy, Bonamassa was finessing Stevie Ray Vaughan licks when he was seven and by the time he was ten, had caught B.B. King’s ear. After first hearing him play, King said, “This kid’s potential is unbelievable. He hasn’t even begun to scratch the surface. He’s one of a kind.” By age 12, Bonamassa was opening shows for the blues icon and went on to tour with venerable acts including Buddy Guy, Foreigner, Robert Cray, Stephen Stills, Joe Cocker and Gregg Allman."

I love his music! Here's a link to his website so you can grab your own tickets: http://jbonamassa.com/

This is one of my favorites on his new release, Black Rock:

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www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com

Random Act of Culture

2010-11-08T10:47:00.000-05:00

Talkmaster Neal Boortz (Atlanta) had a random act of culture segment on his radio show this morning. I didn't get to listen, but just saw this tweet (@talkmaster) and thought it was a fabulous 'random act of culture', had to share!

Paolo Nutini - It Must Be Love

2010-11-01T22:01:00.000-04:00

One of the things I love about Twitter and Blip is that I get to hear music that I might not ever hear in my normal travels. @DaveGrossBlues tweeted a link to a Paolo Nutini tune, I clicked and listened, and I really liked it... so of course I went on a discovery tour of Nutini's music. I'll be blipping his music again! Here's one of my all-time favorite tunes that he covered (Crazy):

Now I'm off on a search for Crazy covers... listening to Nelly Furtado version as I type this last bit.

p.s. Thanks @DaveGrossBlues

Wow, Handel's Messiah ROCKS!

2010-10-26T15:12:00.000-04:00

...and it's going to rock out at the Fabulous Fox Theatre! I was just over on YouTube listening to a few clips and it's great. I was amazed at how they've taken this well-known classical oratorio and turned it into a fun concert that any age or music-type lover can enjoy. I think hearing Handel performed in a rock version is going to give some people who yawn at classical music a better appreciation. They definitely won't be yawning at this show!

Here's a sampling from a performance from a while back --- these might not be the same performers that they'll have at "our" Fox show, but it'll be just as good if not better!

Classic Music Meets Classic Rock: Handel’s Messiah Rocks @ Fox Theatre One Night Only: Sunday, Nov 21

“We are delighted to bring a glorious night of music to the Fabulous Fox Theatre with Handel’s Messiah Rocks on Sunday, November 21 at 7 pm,” states Christopher B. Manos, Producer of Theater of the Stars. “This groundbreaking musical event blends classical music with classic rock and breathes new life into George Fredrick Handel’s most performed oratorio. It is sure to be an unforgettable evening! Tickets are on sale NOW at Ticketmaster outlets, the Fox Theatre Box Office, by calling 800-982-2787, or online at www.ticketmaster.com. And there are special group rates available through Fox Theatre... More

Macy Gray at Buckhead Theatre Tomorrow Night!

2010-10-26T14:42:00.000-04:00

Macy Gray will be at Buckhead Theatre Wednesday night. Doors open at 8 p.m. She's just released her album "The Sellout". Can't wait to see her here in Atlanta!

Here's Kissed It from her new album:

and then an older tune you may remember (should!):

Arts Across Georgia
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com

Ian McFeron and Alisa Milner Live at Java Monkey Nov 10

2010-10-25T14:32:00.000-04:00

Wednesday, November 10th, 2010 – 8:00 pm (Free!)
Java Monkey, 205 East Ponce De Leon Avenue, Decatur, GA 30030 - (404) 378-1852

Seattle-based, singer/songwriter Ian McFeron has big plans for 2010. This year he is slated to perform over 200 shows, all while functioning as his own, independent record label, booking agency, and management company.

“The music industry and the economy at large are facing a lot of challenges right now and there is a lot of speculation about when things are going to turn around, and what that will look like. It’s left a lot of people in limbo, wondering which way to go. I figure that’s a good time for musicians to get back to basics and do what they’ve always done: travel the nation, inspire listeners, and build community.”

The age of digital sharing and declining music sales has been coupled with a receding global economy, hitting independents particularly hard as the middle class budget crunch leaves less disposable income for entertainment.

“You see a lot more people coming up in groups to buy cds, pitching in a couple bucks each to buy one album and then pass it around digitally. You hear a lot of the clubs say their attendance is down 30% or more.”

But when times get tough, musicians have always relied on their creativity to find opportunities in the midst of adversity.

“I know some folks that are excited about building an online presence through social networking; others talk about publishing revenue from the growing number of web stream music sites and how to get a buzz on YouTube. For me, music has always been about community and there’s no substitute for in the flesh live performance. I’ve always found that if I take the risk and get out there, if I play with sincerity and sing from the heart, the money works itself out somehow. If you can create those spiritual moments of intimacy with the audience they’ll encourage you to come back.”

With his first national tour under his belt, a full schedule of summer concerts and festivals, and another run of the nation planned this fall, McFeron estimates he will perform over 200 shows in 2010.

“There is something very blue-collar about being an independent touring musician, and that has always been comforting to me for some reason. I have a friend whose parents have a family farm outside Boise, Idaho, and talking with them I’m always surprised by how many parallels there are between what we do and what they do. When we break new ground in new parts of the country, I always feel like we’re out there sowing seeds, getting our roots going and nurturing strong, healthy stalks. And if we’re successful in doing that, we can come back through and reap the harvest. But you don’t get to escape the first part- you have to put your time in and take the risks and pour your heart into it first. Real success always follows some passionate gamble, I think.”

Ian McFeron takes the stage at Java Monkey on Wednesday, November 10th at 8:00pm, joined by long time musical partner Alisa Milner, a Texas-style fiddler, cellist, and harmony vocalist.

"Ian McFeron plays an earthy yet sophisticated blend of folk, rock, alternative-country and blues that belies the band's youthfulness. And it's danceable, too.” - Gene Stout, Seattle Music Critic
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Arts Across Georgia
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com

Fran Healy - New CD

2010-10-21T14:28:00.000-04:00

Rolling Stone mag tweeted a link to a live session they filmed at RS. I just listened to the three tunes and loved 'em all. Paul McCartney plays on one (not at RS, on the album). I think you'll like them, too!

Joe Bonamassa with Eric Clapton, Further on up the Road, Royal Albert Hall

2010-10-20T11:54:00.000-04:00

I tweeted this a little earlier, sorry to those who're seeing it twice (although it's worth seeing a hundred times!). Wanted to post on my blog... which feeds to Twitter... which then feeds to Facebook. So you're all going to double-dip. Wonder if there's a way to turn off the feed selectively on here? Hmmm... I'm not seeing anything in the post options. Guess if I remember I'll send a suggestion to blogger. I have the ability to turn it off and on in Twitter and Blip.

Enjoy Joe Bonamassa with Clapton. Quite a combo.

The Buckhead Theatre Presents Macy Gray

2010-10-19T22:57:00.000-04:00

Grammy award winning, multi-platinum artist, Macy Gray will grace the stage of the Buckhead Theatre Wednesday, October 27th. For over a decade Gray has parlayed her utterly unique voice into R&B stardom offering a fresh alternative to mainstream soul. Gray’s most recent album, The Sellout, is her first album released in three years and proves that she hasn’t missed a beat. Tickets are on sale now and may be purchased at www.ticketmaster.com.

Buckhead Theatre
3110 Roswell Rd
Atlanta, GA 30305
www.thebuckheadtheatre.com

General Info: 404-THE-BUCK
Box Office: 404-981-6168

When: Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Time: Doors open at 8:00 pm
Cost: $26 General Admission in advance
Tickets are available at www.ticketmaster.com
---
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Review: The Rat Pack is Back at The Fred

2010-09-25T11:09:00.000-04:00

Last night I went to see the Rat Pack is Back at the Frederick Brown Jr Amphitheater (The Fred) in Peachtree City, GA. The Rat Pack was the name given to the early 60's era singer/actors Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammie Davis Jr, Peter Lawford and Joey Bishop. The combo wowed the entertainment world and took Las Vegas by storm.

I missed the generation that was treated to the Rat Pack's music while live. I don't think there's a person alive who listens to music or watches TV who isn't familiar with the music though.

The show was fun. They came with a small "orchestra" that was excellent! Peter Lawford was mentioned, along with a few other 'names' from their heyday, but he wasn't in attendance! After reading a bit of the history of the Rat Pack, I can understand why he isn't a part of the show.

I asked some of the people who attended whether the Frank, Dino, Sammie and Joey captured the mannerisms, the tone, the music of the shows... and got a resounding affirmative from all. Some in the audience showed up wearing their Frank Sinatra hats. Most knew the songs well enough to sing them word-for-word. Those I talked with who didn't grow up in that era, and there were more than I expected, said they got a kick out of watching, had fun, enjoyed or expressed similar sentiments.

I got a kick out of the jokes and interplay between all of those on stage. I haven't seen that kind of engagement at any concert I've attended. Sure, the musicians sometimes share tales or tell a joke or two, but it's not the same as having four "huge" stars doing a show together, ad-libbing, engaging the audience, the way the Rat Pack did. How's that for nostalgia for something I've never experienced?

Although all were good singers, the best of the bunch, in my humble estimation, was Nicholas Brooks playing Sammie Davis Jr. Bobby Mayo get's my award for looking the most like his character, Dean Martin. Mickey Joseph as Joey Bishop was a great 'Joey'. He was funny, could sing, and handled the role perfectly. I have to admit, I don't think I've ever seen Joey Bishop on TV, so when I say 'perfectly' it just means I thought he was great whether he captured Bishop correctly or not.

What can I say about Lee Lankhorst as Frank Sinatra? Given an impossible task, he did it well! There are some 'stars' that we know so well that no matter how well you mimic their style, mannerisms or music, it won't be the same. Lankhorst caught the flavor, he has a "Frank" voice and I enjoyed his 'act'.

The Rat Pack is Back re-created an era of Las Vegas style show that I doubt we'll ever see again. It's a great trip down memory lane for those who were a part of the Rat Pack era and an excellent re-enactment for those of us who've only heard about it.

I had a hard time trying to find the names of the guys who played the different characters. I gather they change at times based on watching a few clips I found on their Facebook page, the Internet. It's possible there's a touring group and a Las Vegas group --- when I went to their website it shows them in Las Vegas now, not on tour. With those disclaimers on record: I'm not 100% sure that these are the names of the four I saw last night, but I'm sure someone will set me straight if I'm wrong:

Frank Sinatra - Les Lankhorst
Dean Martin - Bobby Mayo Jr
Sammie Davis Jr - Nicholas Brooks
Joey Bishop - Mickey Joseph

More info: http://www.ratpackisback.com/

Mayer and Clapton... had to share

2010-09-21T15:12:00.000-04:00

@ibwhitty on Twitter just zapped this across. It is SO good I had to share again... I rt'd on Twitter, this'll pop across again 'cause I have my blog set up to feed to Twitter, but some things are just so good they can be shared again, and again, and again. I'll be blipping this one, too!

Leon Russell and Elton John Collaborate on "The Union"

2010-09-20T13:01:00.000-04:00

If you'd asked me to make a list of musical greats I'd like to see paired for an album, these two would not have made the list. Yep, they'd each have been on the list, but not together. But you know what? It would have been my mistake 'cause they sound good together. I can't wait for the new release "The Union" which is slated to hit the stores in October.

To make a great sounding 'union' even better, Bernie Taupin wrote (or co-wrote) some of the songs! T-Bone Burnett produced the CD, album or whatever the heck you want to call it and he also helped in writing some of the songs. Universal Music is releasing 'The Union".

Here's a cut from "The Union" just to motivate you to save room on the old credit card to buy it in October:

www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
@softnblue on Twitter and Blip

Joe Satriani (@chickenfootjoe) Coming to Center Stage Atlanta! (@centerstageatl)

2010-09-19T14:08:00.001-04:00

I was just over checking out Joe Satriani's website and, of course, pulled up tour dates to see when he'll next be in Atlanta. He's going to be at Center Stage December 1st. Now, I know it's early, but friends, if you really love me, like me, you'll think about the fact that the date makes it a perfect Christmas gift (hint, hint, HINT).

Satriani has got to be one of the best guitar wizards ever! I can still remember the first time I heard "The Crush of Love". I was hooked forever. I immediately went out and bought the CD, and a few others.

Here's a link to ticket sales on his site: http://www.satriani.com/road/ He'll be on tour, so even if you're not in the Atlanta area I'd bet you'll find a concert in your area. Remember, concert tickets make a great Christmas present, especially since you can give them early and earn extra brownie points.

Don't miss out on visiting the home page just 'cause I sent you to a sub-page first. Very cool home page. Yep, I'm easily entertained... give me good music and something fun to look at and ya got me.

Satriani has a new CD coming out soon, Black Swans and Wormhole Wizards. Just the title alone makes me want it! Here's a link if you'd like to take a listen and / or buy: http://www.sonymusicdigital.com/joe-satriani/details/5602126.

And, just in case you've never listened to Joe Satriani, here's another of my favorites (I have a ton of them -- come visit with me on Blip.fm if you want to hear more of the tunes I like to blip).

Saw the coolest thing at The Fox Theatre Friday night...

2010-09-19T12:32:00.000-04:00

I'd almost forgotten about this somehow. It popped back into my head as I was typing a tweet about today being the last chance to see RAIN: A Tribute to the Beatles at the Fabulous Fox Theatre in Atlanta. Hope that's the correct title of the show, I'm doing a quick run-by blog and don't have time to go all factual on you...

Anyway, the cool thing at the Fox Friday night --- I was waiting for my co-workers in front of the theater before going inside. Someone, and I missed who it was, handed the guy who stands out front greeting guests, opening doors, etc. two tickets and said he (or she) couldn't make the concert and they wanted him to give them away.

Wow. You know they could have stood there and sold the tickets to someone, I saw some hawkers doing that down the way. They could have made their money back at a minimum. But nope, they wanted to give them away. I suppose it's possible they were in a hurry and couldn't stand there, but they took the time to come to the theater to hand them to someone who'd give them away. Nice.

I was there long enough to see them given to a couple who really, truly appreciated the gift. I know they had a fantastic time. Everyone who saw RAIN seemed to have a great time.

One other time I was at a play, forget which one, and a girl came in at the last minute to take the seat next to me. She and I chatted while waiting for the show to start. She was SO excited. She'd wanted to see the play forever but couldn't really afford to see it. She'd saved up her pennies and had enough to buy one of the cheapest seats so made a last minute decision to bite the bullet and spend money. While she was standing in line a lady came up to her and asked if she'd like to have her ticket. It was a GOOD seat, in fact, one of the highest priced tickets. She was so thankful. Her appreciation and the kindness of the anonymous ticket-giver made me appreciate the play more than I normally would have.

Nice people go to the theater!

Joe Bonamassa talking about his new album

2010-09-18T23:31:00.000-04:00

@jbonamassa is one of my all-time favorite musicians. Love every single thing he's ever, ever done and know I'm going to love his latest. If you like blues rock, you have to get to know Joe Bonamassa! Promise he'll be on your fave list, too.

B.B. King on the new CD? I'm listening to the following post as I'm typing... catching bits and pieces. If you can't wait for the new release to hit the stores (Sept 21) go to his site: http://jbonamassa.com/ (You can get a free download of one of his tunes from Black Country... I'm multi-tasking, downloading, blipping, tweeting, posting on here... people used to sit on their back porches and whittle wood, just so you know how life has changed ;-)

Here's a bit about his new album, being released Sept 21st in U.S. I missed early pre-order (deadline was Sept 7th). Ah well, going to buy it soon as it hits the street. Here's the blurb "Black Country Communion the Anglo/American rock supergroup comprising vocalist/bassist Glenn Hughes (Deep Purple Black Sabbath, Trapeze), drummer Jason Bonham (Led Zeppelin), Derek Sherinian (Dream Theater) and blues rock guitarist Joe Bonamassa, today confirmed the release date and track listing for their highly anticipated debut album “Black Country”. The album will be released by Mascot Records in the UK and the rest of Europe on Monday September 20th, followed by a North American release through J&R Adventures on Tuesday September 21st."

Shoot, just checked his upcoming tour schedule and he's not coming anywhere near here. I AM going to see him live. Sometime. Some place. It will happen.

Here's an earlier video from Joe:

Staying in the past...

2010-09-18T11:13:00.000-04:00

I try to follow all the artists I can find. Peter Noone of Herman's Hermits fame is one of my favorites. How can you not like Henry the VIII, Mrs. Brown You've Got a Lovely Daughter, Silhouettes and his many other hits? If you get a chance to go to one of his concerts, GO. He keeps you laughing and he sounds fantastic, too.

I don't know why this is one of my favorites by Herman's Hermits. I think it might be because I grew up in England and they used to deliver milk to our door when I was little. It was so cold that often the milk would be frozen and the caps would sit atop a spike of frozen milk. Could just be a fave 'cause it's another one of Noone's catchy tunes.

I'm posting the original and a current version.

My hands hurt from clapping! (#RainTribute #TheFoxTheatre)

2010-09-18T09:24:00.000-04:00

Last night a fab four group of us saw "RAIN: A Tribute to the Beatles" at the Fabulous Fox Theatre in Atlanta. It was groovy. Totally. Our small group ranged in enthusiasm from "who cares about the Beatles, I'm here to have fun" to "I know every word of every song". All of us walked out fans of RAIN and the Beatles.

We clapped, we stood and danced, we fake-swooned, we screamed and we had psychedelic fun. I have laugh lines permanently etched into my face now! My hands are sore from clapping. I worked off the calories from dinner (I hope) dancing at my seat.

One of many things that's cool about the show is the glimpses of recent history that they show on the three huge movie screens set up behind and beside the stage. They show old commercials, shots of Beatles fans, bits of things that were happening at the time the Beatles tunes were coming onto the scene and other graphics to get you in the mood.

RAIN does a fabulous job of bringing the Beatles back to the stage. I was out in California a few years ago and the friend I was with was a huge Beatles fan. She dragged me to one Beatles tribute after another during the week we were there. Some were good, some were OK, none compared to RAIN.

RAIN sings all of the songs, it's not lip sync. And it's good singing, too.

I was a little young to be part of the Beatles craziness, but I grew up listening to the Beatles and seeing them. Although I'm certainly not an expert, it seemed to me that they captured the mannerisms and the flavor of the Beatles perfectly. Loved the Sgt Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band outfits! I saw on their site or maybe it was on the Fox Theatre site that they use a number of the same instruments the Beatles used, too.

I listened to the comments of those around me during the show and during intermission. All ages were there to see RAIN. I heard not one negative from anyone of any age. "Awesome" - a teen behind me. "I'm glad I came" - a mid 30's type. "I want to do this again" - a 50 - 60 year old woman. Everyone was raving about RAIN.

The crowd all got in the mood except one older guy who didn't stand, didn't sway, didn't smile. He was sitting in front of me kind of being, well, just there. The two women who sandwiched him must have been used to his stoic nature 'cause they just danced, talked over his head to each other and had a great time. But you know what? Toward the end I caught the guy clapping to the music! And he stood clapping enthusiastically for the standing O.

We'll never experience Beatles-mania, but it was fun cutting up and letting our hair down! RAIN is talented in their own right and I think they could do non-Beatles concerts if they wanted. However, I'm glad they're doing the Beatles.

I'm hooked. I'll be watching for them to come back to Atlanta, hopefully at the Fabulous Fox Theatre again, too.

They'll only be here through the 19th (tomorrow), but I'd bet you can still grab a ticket. There are no bad seats for this show!

www.theaterofthestars.com
www.raintribute.com