RIP Pinetop

I just read on the BBC news website that Pinetop Perkins has passed away.

Pinetop played with many greats over the years, most notably was his long run with the great Muddy Waters.

He will be greatly missed. Rest in peace Pinetop.

Japan's Sorrow

My thoughts and prayers are with the people of Japan in this time of great sorrow and increasing anxiety as it seems to becoming more likely that they will be subject to radiation leaking from it's damages nuclear facility.

Please give generously in the relief effort.

B.B. Still the King

On January 15th 2011, I went with a buddy to see B.B King at the casino in Windsor, Ontario. This was the second time I saw B.B. and he put on a hell of a show both times. (Btw- If you happen to be in Windsor go for a Jumbo corned beef sandwich at Malic's Deli)

His guitar playing is not what it once was, I think even B.B. himself would acknowledge that, but he can still shake the rafters with that golden voice of his. His story telling skills were as sharp as ever as he drew on his 50 plus years experience of entertaining people.

It was a great night and a real pleasure and honor to see one of the greatest performers of all time.

Blues Guitar Heroes

I recently purchased a collection of magazine articles from the publishers of the UK based Guitarist magazine called Blues Guitar Heroes.

Although a little on the pricey side (it being an import) it's a very entertaining read for the blues guitar enthusiast.

It begins with a brief history of the blues from it's Delta roots to the state of modern blues. The meat of this collection is the collection of articles and interviews of various blues guitar players spanning several generations. Many great players that you are familiar with are featured here as well as many you may not be so familiar with. It's always great to discover a musician that blows you away that was previously unknown to you. This collection is chalk full of such players.

The collection ends with a brief history of the slide guitar as well as a countdown of the greatest blues guitarists which is guaranteed to raise your blood pressure. Lists of these sorts always get on my nerves and spark debate amongst other blues fans- which is part of the fun I suppose.

Finally there's a brief look at some of the classic guitars that are responsible for the glorious notes that have flown from the fingertips of the great blues players over the years. A fitting end to a very well written and entertaining book. I highly recommend picking up a copy.