May 05, 2008
San Diego Happenings
Tonight is a benefit for Candye Kane down at Humphrey's Backstage Lounge. She's been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and is without insurance. She's already had her surgery and it went quite well, but there are major bills to be paid and a fairly intense recovery period when she can't be touring and earning a living. Starts at 6:30pm and goes until...
Friday -- all day -- begins the weekend-long grand opening of the new Borders store in National City. There'll be music and book signings and all sorts of prizes handed out. Meet Oliver North and Ingrid Croce and a host of others. I think I might go Friday just to get some free candy and to see Little Dude's eyes pop out of his head as he gets a load of the size of the place. Book stores are like toy stores for the brain, you know?
Saturday and Sunday are our big days around this house. Gator By The Bay! Big time fun with great music and good people. Oh, and there's food, too. LD and I are doing double duty, working with the blues society and Soldiers' Angels. And we have to squeeze in time for photos and music enjoyment. It'll be a long weekend, but I'm packing my pain pills and planning plenty of breaks to save my back.
So now that you know where to find me, are you gonna stalk me? If so, bring presents. Or at least buy me a drink or a nosh.
Posted by Da Goddess at 02:18 PM | Comments (0)
May 04, 2008
Photos From Last Night
Taken in a dark nightclub with a 35-135mm lens, flash at low burst. Joe is a local musician who is genuinely nice and quite interesting. He kindly posed for me.
Same setup as before with flash and lens. Now, if you're wondering why the side by side or why even go with a different version, I love color, but there's a certain something about B&W that makes me happy. Of course, I didn't do the standard B&W conversion here because that would so...normal. I'm anything but.
Both of the B&W images were altered to look as though I'd used a platinum process. I like this version of B&W imaging because it's a bit warmer in tone and because it definitely has a certain "age" appeal. It also brings shadows and light into a whole different level of play. I find it fascinating. To see what a photographer who uses this process for real (as opposed to using editing software to cheaply replicate pretend results), check out Tom Millea.
Not convinced about the difference in the B&W options? I thought as much. Okay, here's what I mean. You pick the one you think has more depth and warmth. Or go with whichever one you like best.
On the left is the platinum process version of the image and on the right is a standard black and white conversion of the same color image.
Posted by Da Goddess at 02:17 PM | Comments (2)
May 01, 2008
Oooh!
This will likely make little sense to most folks, but were Acidman still alive, he'd totally get it. Gibson has created this incredible limited edition F-5 Victorian mandolin. There are only 15.
The mandolin is my favorite instrument. The sounds it can create are freakin' delicious. Each note is like a little bite of heaven. There's just no other way to describe how sweet a mandolin sounds.
I guess I better start playing the lottery so I can afford one of these babies. I can't imagine they'll be going cheap. It would be better too, I'm sure, if I could actually PLAY it. Oh well, there'll be plenty of time for me to learn while I'm waiting for my lottery numbers to hit.
...Cause there's somethin' so feminine,
about a mandolin;
the way that they feel,
the way that they ring.
Just to see slender fingers,
movin' so fluid,
made this poor heart to sing.
~ Jimmy Buffett
Posted by Da Goddess at 08:19 PM | Comments (5)
April 27, 2008
Leon Redbone
Posted by Da Goddess at 07:07 PM | Comments (0)
April 12, 2008
Pleasant Surprise
The last couple of days have been hazy at best. Pain has forced me into a rather inert state, as well as to bow out of a meeting for Soldiers' Angels and a couple of concerts. I'd been looking forward to it all, but this is just the way it goes sometimes.
What I didn't expect, though, was a surprise concert practically on my front porch.
Turns out my neighbors are part of a mariachi band and they'd gone around to all the apartments asking if it was okay if they rehearsed this evening. The roommate answered the door and said it was cool with him. He relayed a garbled message to me about what was happening, but I was too sleepy to understand at the time.
When the music started, I wasn't quite sure if what I was hearing was just a loud stereo or what. Much to my delight, it was live. The horns and guitars are echoing pleasantly down our little pathway between buildings. Sweet notes hang in the air, quickly followed by more and then more. The guitar provides a gentle rhythmic beat that plays softly under the melodic voices that carry a sense warm comfort.
Even as I grimaced with pain, I hobbled to the doorway and watched one of the trumpet players -- in full traje de charro -- stroll from the stairway from the parking lot to my neighbor's door. Part of me wanted to pick up the camera and capture it all, but my back said otherwise. Instead, I've curled up in a slightly more comfortable position on the couch and let the music wash over me.
What's really kind of surreal about the whole thing is that earlier today I'd watched The Milagro Beanfield War and felt a keen yearning of sorts for mariachi bands, dancers swaying, and gold and pink sunsets. Like magic, part of it came to life right in front of me.
I may not be where I planned to be tonight, but I've been given a pleasant surprise that's helped to dull the hard, rough edges of my pain into something a little more bearable.
Music does wonders for the soul...and the body.
Posted by Da Goddess at 07:18 PM | Comments (0)
March 31, 2008
Trippin' Down Memory Lane
The Fat Guy has a sweet collection of music videos for you. Go forth and enjoy.
And just so I get to throw in my own unique little twist, here's Foghat with (my crush) Honeyboy Edwards.
And then there's Foghat with Johnny Winter and Muddy Waters.
Did you really think I'd play along and not throw in the blues? Really?
Posted by Da Goddess at 04:33 PM | Comments (0)
March 17, 2008
Too Soon?
Is it too soon for me to have a birthday wish list?
I already have one great event lined up for my b-day. May 3 at Anthology with Smokin' Joe Kubek. Mrs. Mikey and I want to celebrate big this year (our birthdays are on the same day). But, guess what I just discovered?
Looks like Joe Bonamassa will be playing Doheny on my birthday this year.
I want to go for both days, too. Bobby Rush (acoustic), Jonny Lang, Trombone Shorty, and a bunch of others on the 17th. The next day has Joe, natch, plus Little Feat, more Bobby Rush (full on show with dancers and such), Watermelon Slim, and, and, and...
I ask for a lot. I know this. But I'm going to start planning early. With any luck, I'll be back on full disability by that time and might actually be able to afford it.
Is it too soon to get excited about this?
Posted by Da Goddess at 06:08 AM | Comments (0)
February 21, 2008
Blogtalk Radio Tonight!
Ever want to hear what I sound like? Ever want to hear me babble incoherently? Here's your chance!
I'll be joining Josh Hathaway of Blogcritics.org on his Blogtalk Radio show tonight. We're ostensibly discussing the blues, but our conversations have been known to quickly devolve into something else completely. I do know for certain that I will take him to task for his unhealthy obsession with Sarah McLachlan. What happens after is anyone's guess.
Interested?
BCRadio via BlogTalkRadio
Date/Time: 02/21/2007 9:00 PM (CST)
Call-in Number: (646) 595-3499
You can jump on and chat, ask questions, make fun of me, whatever you want. Come on out and play. It'll be fun.
Update: You can still hear this week's episode.
Posted by Da Goddess at 01:26 PM | Comments (2)
February 16, 2008
Walk This Way
Silly me. I got my days all mixed up.
I thought I was taking Little Dude on a special adventure today, but it turned out I was so very wrong. I was hoping to introduce him to one of my favorite local bands (featuring "Chachi"). Obviously that didn't happen. The "big event" isn't until tomorrow.
However, we did manage to catch a gospel choir, hear the sound check for DMC (of Run DMC), and meet the guys of Diablo Dimes. Very diverse groups there and not a horrible way to spend a couple hours. Tomorrow, I get two of my bands and that makes me happy. Just wish LD could come with. Le sigh.
Diablo Dimes is adorable in person. Sweet as can be. Think of him as a cross between Bob Dylan, Tom Petty, and an old bluesman. Good stuff.
During the sound check for DMC, we got a little of "Walk This Way", which was one of my favorite videos from back in the day. Honestly, what better way is there to honor the original inspiration and bring new life to a classic rock tune? Whatev. I loved it. The drama from Tyler. The taunting from Run and the guys. The final collaboration. It was fun! C'mon now, admit it -- you liked it, too.
Funny how the past comes back to haunt you sometimes. Ain't never really gone, is it?
Music in the car was also something to behold. But that's a different story altogether.
Posted by Da Goddess at 05:08 PM | Comments (0)
February 14, 2008
ROC Fire Relief Benefit Postponed
Dear Friends,I would like to thank all the amazing people who have jumped on board
contributing their time, expertise and know-how, support and help in so many different ways making this event possible. It is quite a thing to witness the outpouring of brotherly love as I recently have.We have had some phenomenal and outstanding interest shown in our
event. Our original plan was to raise as much money as possible for The San Diego Foundation's "After The Fires Fund" and because of some new players who have jumped on board who are willing to do whatever it takes to achieve this goal we have come to a mutual agreement that it is in our best interest to postpone the concert date for a few months.We are currently negotiating with several different entities that
promise to make this 2-day Music Festival Extravaganza one that you
will not want to miss and will never forget. I have received positive
feed back from the artists and they are still committed to performing
at ROC with a future date to be announced by the end of February.I appreciate your patience and understanding. I would not consider this move if I didn't feel it was in the best interest to the original goal.
Please visit us here at www.myspace.com/rocforfirerelief to stay
updated and informed on the latest news. I will send out an official
announcement no later than February 29th.Thank you for your continued support.
From the heart,
Randy Seol
The Strawberry Alarm Clock
I'm kind of curious about the "other artists" who have jumped on board. Makes me wonder if the rumors I heard earlier are true. No, I'm not saying who, but just know if it is true...oh baby!
Posted by Da Goddess at 11:31 AM | Comments (0)
February 11, 2008
Super Special Events Part Deux
Tis the season for super special things for Little Dude, I guess. Tonight, he will meet a genuine GRAMMY WINNER. Yes, indeedy, folks. David Honeyboy Edwards, 92 ("and a 1/2, Mom!"), is performing here this evening and LD and I are heading down to the venue early to set up a table for the blues society.
A couple weeks ago my mom wondered if this was something LD really wanted to do. He replied, "YES YES YES YES YES YES! This guy's a LEGEND! He's the best!" I looked at my mom and said, as dryly as possible, "I think this is something he might enjoy."
Hopefully we'll have better luck getting LD's mini interview questions answered this time. We're still awaiting Tab's responses via email. Oh, and to anyone concerned about this being a school night, don't be. LD's teacher is coming with us.
Now, what to wear?
Posted by Da Goddess at 01:37 PM | Comments (0)
February 09, 2008
Good Night
It was a good night. Little Dude had a great time and he impressed lots of folks with his outstanding good manners and his interest in the blues. He's such a fun date.
P.S. LD says the heavy lids were from the flash and NOT because he was tired.
Posted by Da Goddess at 01:08 AM | Comments (2)
February 08, 2008
Can Do
There are many things I can't do anymore and many things I can't do for my son. It breaks my heart to not be able to buy him little things or take him places because current circumstances don't allow such things. However, there are things I can do and tonight I have managed to pull a very special, big deal sort of thing out of my hat.
I had help. One of the greatest blessings of my accident was that I found kindred musical spirits. Tonight, they help make one of my little boy's dreams come true.
Tab Benoit plays some damn fine Cajun blues. Not only that, he's also a Voice of the Wetlands All Star. Music and conservation...my kid eats this stuff up. Is it any wonder he considers Tab a hero?
I can't give my kid fancy things, go running around the baseball field with him, or so many other things I'm sure he wishes he could have or do. But I can give him moments he'll never forget. I can do this.
Posted by Da Goddess at 01:50 PM | Comments (2)
February 06, 2008
ROC for Fire Relief
Okay, here's the dealio...
Reunited Overture Concert will be happening February 23 and 24 sometime in the future at Qualcomm Stadium.
From Randy Seol:
Dear Friend,Magic is created when old friends come together. Many old friends are hoping this magic will be transformed into substantial aid for the thousands of Southern California fire victims by helping them restore their lives. And we need your support to help us fulfill the victims’ hopes and honor the heroic fire fighters and others who came to our rescue.
My name is Randy Seol. With help from my band, The Strawberry Alarm Clock, elected San Diego officials, Qualcomm Stadium and H.M. Artist Foundation, I am organizing the “ROC” (Reunited Overture Concert). Proceeds will be donated to the San Diego Foundation’s After the Fires Fund to aid in rebuilding San Diego Communities and help the fire victims.
The event will be a two-day Music Festival Extravaganza February 23 and 24, 2008 at Qualcomm Stadium!
Join us in the company of your “old friends” and a broad arrangement of musical talent such as The Strawberry Alarm Clock, Electric Prunes, Buddy Miles, Vince Martell of Vanilla Fudge, The Ravers, Sky Saxon with The Seeds, Rose Garden, Indian Classical featuring Shri Arup Chattopadhyay (Tabla) and Shri Suman Laha (Veena), Jimmy Kunes, Jim McCarty of Cactus and Stephen Bishop as well as popular local bands.
“ROC” (Reunited Overture Concert) will bring thousands of San Diegans together to help us thank the firefighters who courageously risked their lives to put the fires out, the media who diligently kept us informed with up-to-the-minute information and the city and state officials for their quick response to our cries for help.
Only with your participation can we make this a successful and special reunion by personally thanking these individuals as we bring them on stage between acts so they can feel thousands of us cheer and applaud them for their acts of heroism and success!
Your generous charitable support will be instrumental in making this event a success. All contributions are tax deductible under H.M. Artist Foundation’s non-profit 501c3 classification. A form is enclosed with specific details. We encourage interested sponsors to sign up as soon as possible.
We look forward to hearing from you and seeing you at “ROC.” Please feel free to contact us for any additional information.
Sincerely,
Randy Seol
Daniel Hendrick
Check out Reunited Overture Concert or H.M. Artist Foundation for further info.
Posted by Da Goddess at 08:56 PM | Comments (0)
February 05, 2008
A Little Light
Despite the less than stellar quality of the photos, I like both of these. Look at the arms on Dennis (first image)! I love that you can see the sweat and muscles. To me, it says he's putting all he has into his playing, and he does. Tony, his bassist, well, I simply love the ripples of shadow against light on his shirt, the dreads, and the fact it was so hard to catch him with his head still. He bounced and bobbed while he played.(More photos of Dennis Jones and Tony Ruiz of the Dennis Jones Band.)
I try to shoot without flash as much as possible during performances because I like the mood the lighting creates. It can be problematic, though. It's been my experience that most clubs/venues don't have adequate lighting, or rely too much on red gels. There are any number of issues that can occur, including some band members appearing totally in the dark because of how the lighting is arranged. Even if you use a flash, it's not a guarantee that it'll light the subject properly. While shooting this band, I did use flash for a lot of the shots, but I like the ones where I didn't better. Flaws and all.
I've always been fascinated by the way light plays with texture, shape, and movement. Whether I'm drawing, taking a photo, or even just sitting and looking at something, light can change how you see things. A stray shadow can elongate or shorten the proportion of a figure. It can create an entirely new figure! If you watch the same tree from the same angle throughout the course of a day, does it not seem to change before your eyes? At sunrise it may look fresh and new. At noon, it becomes both a bright being and a cool resting place. As the sun shifts behind it a bit, there's a renewed vibrancy in the leaves, but it's still different from the way it looked at dawn. At sunset, it can be a mere shadow against God's palette.
Take away color, light becomes even more important. Without it, there's no depth, no being. That's pretty much the core of my fascination.
Amazing what interrupted sleep and a need for distraction can produce, isn't it? Must. Try. To. Nap.
Posted by Da Goddess at 10:19 AM | Comments (0)
January 29, 2008
Cameras, Photos, and Deals, Oh My!
Some extremely nice person wrote to ask me about the photo shoot I just did. While I'm pleased with most of the images, I see where I'm lacking and what I have to reshoot. I was having issues with my camera early on and I was so uncomfortable because I felt extremely unprofessional. No backup camera. Nothing. All I had was a quick fix plan that I prayed would work. It did. But I was still left feeling like I had failed to complete my assignment properly.
When I look at the photos (see link above), I have a few favorites. I'm also picking apart everything that's wrong with them. I can usually critique my own work fairly well, although I tend to pick things apart more than most people would.
So what do I see? Imperfect color balance. Sure, I can do some post-production work on them, but it's not true to life color that I would like. I see digital noise and loss of sharpness due to 1) my camera's limits and 2) aging equipment. It happens with fixed-lens cameras. There's no way to properly clean sensors or between glass. It just can't be done unless you have someone take the whole thing apart (which costs as much as a replacement cam).
I also see a limited field. I can't just pop on a wide-angle lens and compensate for close quarters.
Even with all those criticisms, I am proud of some of the portraits. If you knew this band, and their energy, the little bit of playfulness in a few shots makes perfect sense. I'm proud that I managed to get any of that when I think of how I had to stop shooting to fix my fussy camera. I mean, I lost some of the momentum with the band. I lost the immediacy. They started wandering off. It's not how I operate. Had my camera functioned properly, I would have kept shooting and the guys would have stayed focused and loose. Do those two terms even belong in the same sentence? Well, yes. It's a precious thing that happens when you're on a roll.
Immediate solution to immediate problem: retake the headshots. Maybe borrow a better camera for the group shot.
Longterm solution: get new gear.
I mentioned briefly a while back that I'd had an offer to help me get a new camera. There are stipulations and the like, but it's a viable plan. But only if I have help.
So here's what was offered to me.
I have to raise money -- through donations. All funds raised can only be put toward new gear. I can't pay rent or bills with that money. The whole idea being that a good camera will allow me to earn money to pay for the necessities. All funds raised will be matched, dollar for dollar, by people who believe in my photography. I also have to come up with a print portfolio (which I've started) to show potential clients. I'm responsible for developing my own clients (and I've already had, thanks to this last job, referrals to other bands and to a community events planning board). If I raise more money (coupled with the matching funds) than I need to buy the camera I want, I must use those funds to invest in lenses and other essentials.
Which cameras am I looking at? The Canon Rebel XTi and the Nikon D40x. Both are approximately 10MP and come with a 2GB card and 18-55mm lenses. One offers a bonus 55-200mm lens. If I go through Costco, I'm looking to spend between $650-800 on the camera itself. In store, the price is comparable. I will eventually need to look into more lenses and lighting, but I can likely borrow until then. I'm also looking at other vendors, but few can match the bulk rate discount Costco does. I could drop to 6 or 8MP and spend less, but photography trends dictate the need for better resolution NOW. (I just missed another magazine opportunity because of my puny 3.2MP situation.) I'm approaching this as an investment in my future ability to earn a living outside of nursing. I'm not looking to remain a hobby photographer. And I'm not looking to invest way out of my range because I'm realistic. I know I can work with either camera and produce quality results. If I can manage to do good work with crap, imagine what I can do with better gear! I also want to keep costs down to be able to raise the money needed in a shorter time frame.
I'm serious as hell about making this happen. I don't have a husband to help me out of my current situation. Nor do I have a house against which I could take a loan. I'm not asking for reasons of vanity or entitlement. I want to make life work for me instead of working against me (or feeling as such). I can't wait for my work comp case to settle. I can't wait to win the lottery (I don't even play). I have to make it happen and this is my chance.
As I've mentioned to a few people, asking for help is very hard for me to do. However, I feel some opportunities are worth taking the risk. This is worth the risk.
It's a doable plan, but only if I get those donations. Do you believe in my eye? Do you like what you see? Brother (sister), can you spare a dime?
Update: I've adjusted my goal a bit after being yelled at for not considering sales tax and shipping (I've found I can get a better price on a camera and two lenses by going through a company my friend uses). For once, I'm heeding advice from those who know and those who are interested in me getting the best deal possible. They speak, I listen.
Posted by Da Goddess at 01:08 AM | Comments (6)
January 18, 2008
Harpy Boy
Some guys are harpier than others, don't ya think?
Another local musician with oodles of talent. Makes ya wonder what's in the water when you consider how many great musicians we have here. Sadly, the water hasn't worked any wonders for me.
Posted by Da Goddess at 05:16 AM | Comments (2)
Not Scott
One of our local guitarists, who happens to be incredibly talented, looks a lot like Scott Baio. This means I can't stand anywhere near him for long because someone will inevitably comment, "Oh, it's true! Joanie really does loves Chachi." Yes, they're adults, but the temptation is apparently too great for them to pass up.
Anyhow, here's a photo from my archives.
Posted by Da Goddess at 05:06 AM | Comments (0)
October 29, 2007
Good Things Come In Small Packages
So the mailman brought me a wonderful thing today. No, not anything essential, like money or a car. Noooo. What I got was a copy of A Journey Through the Blues: The Son Seals Story DVD for review.
Considering where my head's been (in a bad place) for the last few months, this is a godsend. Suddenly, the clouds are less gray and dense. The sun is peeking through. And I can practically hear the musicians warming up.
So much better than hanging out at grocery stores waiting for cute chefs to spice up my life, eh?
Posted by Da Goddess at 12:52 PM | Comments (2)
August 30, 2007
LD on WD
Little Dude was sitting in the backseat of the car as we were attempting to get from Point A to Point B. We were listening to Willie Dixon's I Am The Blues. Now, we've only listened to it a couple of times, so I was rather surprised to hear a not-so-little someone jumping in on the chorus of more than a few songs.
"That spoon, that spoon, that spoonful," he sang. And then he started in on the main verses. "Some lie for that spoonful. Some cry for that spoonful. Some die for that spoonful..."
His favorite tunes off I Am The Blues are "Spoonful", "Seventh Son", "Little Red Rooster", "Back Door Man", and "The Same Thing". Of course, those titles only come up after you tell him he HAS to pick a favorite or two. Otherwise, he'll tell you the whole album is his favorite.
In pressing him for his thoughts on the CD, he said, "Mom, it's really amazing how Willie Dixon can be so growly and still sound so nice."
Yeah. Little Dude gets it. Maybe it seems so weird that I get excited over my kid's appreciation of music, especially the blues, but I don't care. For one thing, he REALLY LIKES it. For another, he gets a history lesson along the way. And then there's always the perk of getting to meet an occasional musical hero. That just about blows all his fuses. It's a special, rare thing that serves as reinforcement of history being a living, vibrant entity and not just some stale old concept or story.
I think I may have to just let the kid start his own music reviews. Or at least transcribing them for him. You should hear what he has to say about other artists!
"I am built for comfort, I ain't built for speed." Dixon had a way with words. Most bluesmen do. But his gift seemed to spill across the boundaries that normally hold individual wisdom hidden from the world.
If you don't think you could pick a Willie Dixon tune out of a lineup with a neon arrow lighting the way, think again. If you've ever heard "I Just Want To Make Love To You" (Bad Company, et al), "Hoochie Coochie Man" or "I Can't Quit You Baby" (Led Zeppelin and others), there ya go.
Dixon was one of the most prolific blues songwriters, and also served as a producer for Chess Records. He died in 1992.
For more info, check out his bio on Wikipedia.
Posted by Da Goddess at 12:46 AM | Comments (2)
February 05, 2007
Rob's Music - "Justice Laid Me Low"
The second song of the set I promised you.
Posted by Da Goddess at 03:29 PM | Comments (3)
January 22, 2007
Rob's Music - "The Dutchman"
Here's the first of two songs sent to me by Rob's friend.
This one is called "The Dutchman" and it beautifully highlights Rob and his brother's musical talents.
Enjoy! Please do not hotlink the music.
Posted by Da Goddess at 03:24 PM | Comments (1)
January 08, 2007
The Hunt For Bo Carter
My hunt (locally) for tunes by Bo Carter has been stalled for a while now. I could take the easy way out and order from Amazon, but that almost seems like cheating, thank you very much. It's driving me crazy.
What's the big deal? Who the hell is Bo Carter? Will Da Goddess ever stop writing about music and go back to writing other things? The questions and more will be answered on the next episode of Soap. Okay, maybe not.
Anyhow, to answer the last question first -- yes, when the muse visits and sticks around long enough for me to interview. Now, on the first two questions...
The answer will return shortly!
Baby if you don't like my peaches, baby please don't-cha touch my tree
Baby and if you don't love my peaches, baby please don't touch my tree
And if you don't want me to have your potatoes, don't mash my digger
down so deep
Say's when I use my digger, I use it in different ways,
I dig potatoes for these women, both night and day
Baby if you don't like my peaches, baby please don't-cha touch my tree
Baby and if you don't love my peaches, baby please don't touch my tree
And if you don't want me to have your potatoes, don't mash my digger down so deep
Says when I get to use my digger, I use it like I should,
the women all cryin' your old digger, ya know, it digs and feels so good
Baby if you don't like my peaches, baby please don't-cha touch my tree
Baby and if you don't love my peaches, baby please don't touch my tree
And if you don't want me to have your potatoes, don't mash my digger down so deep
Says when I get to use my digger, I use to the side and up and down,
I can dig your potatoes better than any man in this town
Baby if you don't like my peaches, baby please don't-cha touch my tree
Baby and if you don't love my peaches, baby please don't touch my tree
And if you don't want me to have your potatoes, don't mash my digger down so deep
Sometimes it takes three inches to dig for 'tatoes, sometimes it takes four,
when I find 'em deep, you know, I mash it down some more
Baby if you don't like my peaches, baby please don't-cha touch my tree
Baby and if you don't love my peaches, baby please don't touch my tree
And if you don't want me to have your potatoes, don't mash my digger down so deep
Posted by Da Goddess at 03:26 PM | Comments (2)
Tribute To The King
His moves left crowds "All Shook Up". His style was different from anything most of his audience had heard. He was a white kid singing "black" music at a time when that sort of thing wasn't done. In fact, because of his successful blending of rhythm and blues and rock and some country twang, "race music" and "hillbilly music" labels fell to the wayside.
He changed the way Americans heard music. He paved the way for many and has been credited by countless artists as a major influence.
I wasn't always a fan, save for a song or two. But...in the last couple years, I've developed a greater appreciation of his music and his contribution to music as we know it today.
His name was Elvis Aron Presley.
Elvis would have been 72 today. Somehow, there's a part of me that believes if he were alive he'd still be rockin' and rollin'.
"Hound Dog" - Elvis Presley
"A Tribute To The King" - Super Chikan
Posted by Da Goddess at 01:34 PM | Comments (0)
December 25, 2006
A Holiday Song
From Rob's friend, here's a little ditty for you to enjoy.
Posted by Da Goddess at 04:54 PM | Comments (0)
September 28, 2006
Into Every Life A Little Sun Must Shine
Crappy photo, but still a bright and shining moment in my otherwise shit-for-luck existence. Oh yeah, there's been more happening here than I can ever explain or than I would ever wish upon my worst enemy.
In brief: My dad ended up back in the hospital, the dining room light fixture was dripping water (all over personally inscribed posters - for the local blues society and for Little Dude), and a worm tried to eat the computer. That's the tip of the ice berg, but I do have faith it will all get better.
September is supposed to be one of the happiest times of the year, right? I mean, kids go back to school and the temps are supposed to dip a bit...right? RIGHT? Sigh.
Anyhow, there you have it. Sunshine. Maybe I'll even give a link to a photo considered "unpublishable". We'll see.
Posted by Da Goddess at 12:34 AM | Comments (4)
September 01, 2006
Face From The Past
Posted by Da Goddess at 12:05 PM | Comments (6)
August 16, 2006
She's Got the Love Monkey Ridin' on Her Back
That damn, Sally. 2016, indeed.
Sometimes you simply have to acknowledge your weird musical past in order to move forward.
Don't ask why this is such an issue lately.
Oh, what kind of fool am I? If only I were Jessie's Girl.
Look for a confession after the videos.
So it wasn't enough for me to stop there. I have MORE for you. More because I care. Deeply.
Now, you have a special job here. You get to choose between the old and the new. I'm behind the times enough as it is, so when you point out the remake is almost two years old, just know that I'm well aware of this, m'kay? Thanks.
P.S. Confession time: I like two Christina Aguilera songs. Yes, two. The world has officially ended.
Posted by Da Goddess at 06:15 PM | Comments (1)
July 16, 2006
Drinkin' and Drivin' - Remarkable
Posted by Da Goddess at 02:18 AM | Comments (8)
July 03, 2006
Ronnie Baker Brooks
Posted by Da Goddess at 02:36 AM | Comments (0)
June 28, 2006
Rob's Music II
For the next week or so, Rob's songs (as I receive them), will be placed at the top of the sidebar.
Enjoy.
Posted by Da Goddess at 07:14 PM | Comments (7)
June 27, 2006
Rob's Music
One of Rob's friends sent me one of his songs. I converted the file and finally got it uploaded after listening to it a few dozen times.
If you're so inclined, "My Door Is Always Open" over on Bonamassa Blog.
Since it seems comments are still being fixed, and I'm having such a tough time with other blog issues here, I'll post anything music related over on the other site until the bugs are exterminated.
Posted by Da Goddess at 10:31 PM | Comments (0)
April 03, 2006
Life is Stranger Than You Think - Reflections on Life and Death
Saturday was a really nice day. Despite my back hurting (and basically flattening me for two weeks), I was very excited about what was a fantastic afternoon and evening.
CalTech Girl and her husband showed up around 1 p.m. and took me out to lunch. What an awesome couple! So enjoyable, so funny, so smart, and just...well, everything I'd imagined them to be and more. I had no idea just how down-to-earth they were.
After lunch, we had to take care of a little shopping. From Target to Best Buy, we got what we needed and headed off to a "We're So Glad You're Not Dead" party for Mikey. That wasn't the official title, but that's what it really was. That, and a "Lucky Duck" extravaganza. (Pics to follow at some point, if I can manage it.)
The evening was fantastic. From Mikey's reaction to the duck theme (ICU psychosis/hallucinations) to the many friends and family who showed up, from the gifts to the laughter, it was truly heartwarming. As many know, my friend has made a remarkable comeback following his coma. He's still dealing with rehab and such, but he's working hard and making wonderful progress.
Following the party, CTG and hub dropped me off at home and I tried to get a little sleep. The Vicodin had kicked in at this point and I dozed off for a few hours. Around 4 a.m., I woke up feeling very strange. Not sick, just strange.
I was supposed to see Mrs. Smash's play yesterday afternoon and take some photos for her, but we rescheduled since the cast had other things happening. That worked out just fine for everyone.
By 2 p.m., I was weepy and feeling completely out of sorts for some reason. Something still wasn't right and I didn't know what it was. I finally went to bed. Upon awakening, I found out via email that one of the local musicians (one with whom I had much wonderful correspondence and occasional contact) had died. Time of death? 2:38 p.m.
Call it a coincidence or whatever you want, that's how it went down.
I've written his obit, made many phone calls, and have shed a tear or two. Mostly, I spent the evening and this morning thinking of the many ways he touched my life.
I began to compare his fate with that of Mikey. For a moment I felt guilty that I'd been celebrating Mikey's recovery while this other dear man was hours from death. But there's no way I could have known. And there's no exchange of life in God's book that I've ever heard tell of. The one thing that I know for certain is that we cannot spend our lives waiting for the other shoe to drop. In doing so, we lose sight of all that brings meaning to our lives. Unable to enjoy the music and the poetry and the breathtaking beauty of all that surrounds us, we fail to fulfill our potential as humans.
I'm grateful that Mikey is alive. And, I'm grateful for my friends and family. I'm saddened by Buddy's death. But, I'm also really grateful for a year of laughter and insight from a man who had thought me worthy of his time. Trust me when I say he didn't expend that sort of energy on everyone. But I was fortunate enough to benefit from my "sort of" mentor. I'll miss him much and I will remember him as I go about the business of living.
Mikey and Buddy - two different medical outcomes - each influencing my life in many ways.
Thank you, guys!
Full obit on Buddy is available here.
Posted by Da Goddess at 06:54 AM | Comments (1)
March 28, 2006
Another Silly, Pointless List - With a Point, Sorta
In normal times, I tend to snipe at people for oversharing, especially with their many lists of songs. However, this past month has been anything but normal. This week has been bizarre, at best. And so, I just can't seem to get past this need to give you a list of randomly played music. I know you don't care, but I insist.
There's just something about the shuffle feature that makes for truly bizarre combinations that aren't altogether entirely unpleasant. I have a strict rule when I hit "shuffle". I'm not allowed to skip any songs. Ever. I don't care if my son just walked into the room in the middle of Liz Phair's "HWC" ("Hot White Cum", for the uninitiated). At best, I will turn something down, but never, ever do I skip it. And, yes, that means I occasionally end up with Lowell Fulson singing "I Want To Spend Christmas With You" (note to self: find Eric Cartman singing "Oh Holy Night")in the middle of July. Or even Christopher Walken and the SNL gang looking for more cowbell. Maybe even a little "Special Fred" from Stephen Lynch. That's just how it goes.
Because of my "no skip" rule, the mix is always unique and "different". On the other hand, there are times when there seems to be a theme running through the list. Look at today's "First 40" on the old editing "soundtrack":
- "Desperado" - The Eagles
- "Key to the Highway" - Carey and Lurie Bell
- "Around the World" - Stoney Curtis Band
- "Song Inside Me" - Michele Lundeen
- "Please Baby" - Nathan James and Ben Hernandez
- "Wolf in the Henhouse" - Anthony Gomes
- "This Year's Love" - David Gray
- "Your Love Amazes Me" - John Berry
- "Blues is a Feeling" - Michele Lundeen
- "Mack the Knife" - Bobby Darin
- "Needles and Pins" - Tom Petty and Stevie Nicks ("uh")
- "Bad Whiskey and Cocaine" - David Honeyboy Edwards
- "Fence Climbin' Blues" - Scott Henderson
- "Freight Train Blues" - Trixie Smith
- "The Boys Are Back in Town" - Thin Lizzy
- "Shur Fine Woman" - Cash Box Kings
- "20 Men Waiting" - Cathy Segal Garcia
- "Bourbon" - Rory Gallagher
- "Few and Far Between" - Shannon Curfman
- "Skank" - Lance Lopez
- "You're So Evil" - Corey Stevens
- "Still Wish" - Leif Garrett
- "Roll and Tumble Blues" - David Honeyboy Edwards
- "Don't Lie" - Griff Hamlin
- "Too Little Too Late" - The Groove Hogs
- "Qualify My Love" - Michele Lundeen
- "South Forest Boogie" - Little Pink Anderson
- "China Grove" - Doobie Brothers
- "Boogie Chillun" - John Lee Hooker, Lightnin' Hopkins, Bobby Bland, Jimmy Reed, James Cotton, and Otis Span
- "The Loop" - Rory Gallagher
- "Pains My Heart to Love You" - Nathan James and Ben Hernandez
- "Rock Me" - Carey and Lurie Bell
- "Starting Over" - Michele Lundeen
- "World Where You Live" - Crowded House
- "Anything But Love" - J.D. Souther (shortest entry)
- "Bull Cow Blues/Robert Nighthawk Story" - David Honeyboy Edwards
- "Something I Can't Do" - Corey Stevens
- "Waiting on You" - The Groove Hogs
- "Use Me" - Jason Whitton
- "If Heartaches Were Nickels (Live)" - Joe Bonamassa
Tell me it wasn't a little like Blues night on American Idol (not that I watch and would know - I just edit the reviews), except with better talent and the oddly placed non-blues song here or there.
That's the beauty of random play, or shuffle, or whatever you want to call it. I get everything from 1922 to present day recordings. You never know what you're going to get. Sort of like Forrest Gump and his box of chocolates, except mine are tastier. Or something like that. Although, come to think of it, chocolate does sound mighty tasty right about now.
I'm sort of wondering if my player isn't a little possessed. I mean, look at the progression of music there. From mostly mellow to progressively heavier tunes. Could it be that the player is basing this on the time of day? The later in the day it gets, the more driving the music? I'm curious. If my media player is that intuitive, can it sing me songs of heartbreak during those lonely nights? Will it cuddle me when I'm in need of a hug? Can it see what I'm doing when I think I'm all alone? Can it track my Internet usage? Oh, the possibilities are horrifying! Or comforting, depending on the results.
It could well be that I'm over analyzing this. I was emailing Michele Lundeen late into the night. Maybe that had something to do with my media player's omniscent selection of two three four of her songs. I'd also emailed Roy Book Binder about Little Pink (who's sort of disappeared lately). And, I was working on many Blues-related projects. Plus, I had listened to the BCRadio podcast. It just really makes me wonder about how random random play is and how much my computer knows about me.
In the end, I'm not worried as far as song selection. I'm always glad I haven't skipped a song or stuck with just one artist. What I get from the mix is something entirely unique and helps make the time pass more pleasantly. And I loved this morning's editing "soundtrack".
Since you've read this far, here's a challenge for all of you, okay TWO challenges:
- "Anything But Love" - J.D. Souther -- there used to be a version of this TV show theme song with vocals. I actually had it on my old computer until it crashed. I need helping finding the version with vocals.
- "Guantanamera" - the Tinku version with vocals. I want that terribly. This San Diego band performs this song so beautifully. That photo there? That's one I took one Cinco de Mayo. The couple, well, the beauty of their dance combined with the music was so moving that I simply must have the Tinku version of the song as they were the ones performing at the time.
There, I overshared a bit myself and you have a mission or two. Email me if you happen to find what I seek.
Go forth and please me, my pretties.
Posted by Da Goddess at 01:38 PM | Comments (0)
March 26, 2006
Confession is Good For the Soul
Okay, I feel like I need to make a few confessions here. I mean, confession is supposed to be good for the soul, right? So, why I don't I just come clean about some of this for you here.
I've been listening to some weird music lately. Weird because I'm not sure how anyone looking at my collection of songs would categorize me.
Oh, you want examples? Fine. Just consider yourself warned, okay?
Here are the last 30 songs that came up on random play:
- "Jessie's Girl" - acoustic version, Rick Springfield and Art Alexakis
- "Gangsta's Paradise" - Coolio
- "Lime in the Coconut" - Sprung Monkey
- "Solo Por Tu Amor" - Tinku
- "The Song Remembers When" - Trisha Yearwood
- "Cowboy Take Me Away" - The Dixie Chicks
- "Trashy Women" - Confederate Railroad
- "Dimples" - John Lee Hooker and Los Lobos
- "Stephanie" - Buckingham Nicks
- "Redemption Song" - Bob Marley
- "Just Between You and Me" - April Wine
- "You Really Had Me Going" - Holly Dunn
- "Ballroom Blitz" - Blue Oyster Cult
- "Who's Got the Hooch" - Everlast
- "Smiling Islands" - Robbie Patton and Stevie Nicks
- "Things That Disappear" - live, Rhett Miller w/Jon Brion (I was actually present during this performance)
- "She's Tight" - Cheap Trick
- "Pissin' in the Wind" - Jerry Jeff Walker
- "Sirius" - Alan Parsons Project
- "Crossroads" - Hound Dog Taylor
- "Streets of Bakersfield" - Dwight Yoakam and Buck Owens
- "Hearts Are Gonna Roll" - Hal Ketchum
- "Other Side" - Red Hot Chili Peppers
- "Ain't No Sunshine" - Van Morrison
- "Love Gun" - KISS
- "Black Tornado" - Chris Ledoux
- "West Helena Blues" - Honeyboy Edwards
- "Every Time I Eat Vegetables It Makes Me Think of You" - The Ramones
- "Doolin-Dalton" - The Eagles
- "The Spider and the Fly" - Kenny Wayne Shepherd and James Cotton
And you thought you knew me so well. Heaven help anyone who tries to analyze that collection.
Posted by Da Goddess at 05:58 AM | Comments (7)
March 15, 2006
The 88
The 88 - rock, pop, Beatles-ish, Kinks-ish, Queen-ish - call them whatever you want but the band has a special something that has caught the ear of many. Currently, they have songs featured on TV shows and in movies.
They're fun, they're really nice guys, and their collective star is rising.
Posted by Da Goddess at 04:24 AM | Comments (2)
February 24, 2006
Friday's "I Don't Know and I Don't Care" Blues
One of the best things about being in a funk is that I have the perfect excuse to listen to whatever music I want.
I suppose I could pick up some Sarah McLachlan or some Susie Sue, but no, they really don't work. Instead, I grabbed a stack of my CDs and started off with some Johnny Shines, Honeyboy, Nathan and Ben, and then, I launched into some Trixie Smith. Her 1922-34 recordings, to be exact. The first few songs are reminiscent of the music you'd hear in those early cartoons - the black and white ones with the scratchy sound.
About halfway through the CD, though, there are a few songs that are particularly fantastic. "I'm Through With You (As I Can Be)", "Take It Daddy, It's All Yours", "I'm Gonna Get You", "Tired of Waiting Blues", "Triflin' Blues", "Don't Shake it No More", and "I Don't Know and I Don't Care Blues".
All the songs feature have a nickelodeon-ish sound, but I don't really mind. I mean, these songs were recorded almost 100 years ago and I'm listening to them right now! It's rather astounding, don't you think?
Then, there's feel of the songs. You can't deny the complete and utter sentiment of the tunes. Some are quite poignant. Others serve as declarations of independence and strenght. If you consider what many of these woman endured at the time -- especially if they were black -- the importance of these recordings cannot be discounted.
I have chills just thinking about all this great music I have around me. If'n I'm gonna have the blues, I may as well have the right soundtrack.
On a positive note, my Flickr account has suddenly seen a jump in activity. One photo went from having two people looking at it to almost 500, What a nice little ego boost!
Posted by Da Goddess at 03:07 AM | Comments (8)
December 06, 2005
Anthony Gomes
The Anthony Gomes Band was playing their hearts out. The lighting was momentarily quite bright when I shot this. Anthony's a bit obscured by the light and takes on a sort of rockin' blues heavenly being appearance. I kind of like it.
Lending an even more angelic cast to this artist, he was the ultimate gentleman and host during a recent three day run. Gotta love a skinny white guy who treats everyone with respect and kindness and can sing like an old Delta bluesman.
P.S. Gomes rhymes with "homes"
Posted by Da Goddess at 05:11 AM | Comments (1)
The Joe Bonamassa Band
Big changes in the line-up for the Joe Bonamassa Band as Kenny Kramme (drums) and Eric Czar (bass) move on to other projects. The new drummer is Bogie Bowles and the new bassist is Mark Epstein. While the band's overall personality has shifted a bit, the music still kicks ass!
Posted by Da Goddess at 04:58 AM | Comments (1)
November 29, 2005
Winners
Posted by Da Goddess at 01:34 AM | Comments (4)
August 28, 2005
Sunday Blues
A mother dying from complications of childbirth, a father lynched by the KKK when the child was just 5, his early life being cared for by various relatives. Sounds like something straight out of a blues song, doesn't it?
In reality, this was how life began for Louisian Red, aka Iverson Minter. That's a part of his life, not who he is. A lifetime of experiences and fine blues shaped him into the man I met a week and a half ago.
Red's lyrics are often poignant and heartbreakingly real. His vocals are strong, deep, and reflective. Red is also soft-spoken, gentle, and generous. He listened to all of three notes my friend played on a harmonica and then invited the young man on stage for a duet.
Technical issues (during the first part of the show) aside, Louisiana Red put on a hell of a show. One song almost caused me to lose it - a song about September 11th. I can't find the lyrics, but I know that Technogypsy can attest to how moving the song was.
Sunday Blues is a regular feature over at Dust My Broom.
Posted by Da Goddess at 09:48 PM | Comments (1)
August 07, 2005
Smiling Islands
An unexpected outing this evening.
I was whisked away by friends to go hear a band play. Nothing big. It's a band we're quite familiar with in these parts. The real treat was after everyone was dropped off.
As my chauffeur drove me home, he popped in a CD. AM Gold - 1978, Various Artists. We took the super extra long way home, arriving back here about two minutes ago. Songs brought back memories that were a bit hazy.
"Who sang this one?"
"John Somebody."
"No, I think it was a Nick."
We were arguing over who sang "The Power Of Gold." Silly us. It was Dan Fogelberg and Tim Weisberg.
We also heard cuts from Little River Band, George Benson, Kim Carnes, Ambrosia, Player, and Andy Gibb. One of my favorites off the whole thing was from Pablo Cruise. Sweet memories of one of my first concerts (Andy Gibb was the other) was Pablo Cruise. "Love Will Find A Way."
That led to a discussion of other songs that people mostly don't remember, unless we're in Rainman mode.
My Rainman song?
"Smiling Islands" - Robbie Patton and Stevie Nicks
I don't want to live forever
But I don't want to die alone
A pair of eyes that love me
Is all I want
I don't want to say no goodbyes
But I don't want our love in pain
Life's too short to play
In those kinds of games
(Chorus)
Oh, I don't want to be the one leaving
But I see our winds have changed
We're sailing in different directions
Yet we both wanna stay close friends
Like smiling islnds
I don't need to see you're pretending
And I don't want those lies in bed
It's better to end it
Then cheat on what's left
And I don't want to make you unhappy
And I don't want to let us go
You're the one with the eyes
That give me the hope
(Repeat Chorus)
Then one day when we've sailed
Over every sea
We'll remember that we sailed away
Honestly
Smiling Islands
I swear, the person who gets me a copy of this song gets whatever they want (except money.)
I'm such a dork that I got all excited and had to blog this.
"Green lime jello for dessert."
Rainman out.
Posted by Da Goddess at 02:55 AM | Comments (9)
August 05, 2005
Blues Friday
I think it's only appropriate to include Welcome to Little Milton as we say goodbye to him.
Little Milton Campbell finally succumbed (August 4, 2005) to the ravages of a stroke he'd suffered about a week earlier. His death has stunned the blues community as he was scheduled throughout the summer to play blues festivals across the country. In January of 2006, he was slated to play on the Legendary Blues Cruise.
Almost a half century after his debut on Sun Records, Milton Campbell continued to bring soulful blues to new heights with his soaring guitar playing and down home, gutsy vocals. From Sun, Milton moved to Chess Records, then Stax, TK, and MCA, finally settling with Malaco Records.
It should be noted that Little Milton attributed most of his success to his faithful friend "Bessie" (his guitar). When asked why "Bessie" was such a good friend, he replied, "She never says no, she never gets sick, she makes me money, and she's always ready when I call on her." I think he may have sold himself short on his ability to sing timeless songs and play the hell out of Bessie.
He was bold, too. Who else would be brave enough to cover Nazareth's "Love Hurts" with Lucinda Williams?
From Welcome to Little Milton comes the lyrics for the cut "Mother Earth For Little Milton":
Mother Earth is waiting for you
Cuz that's the debt you got to pay
I don't care how great you are
I don't care what you're worth
When it all is up
You got to go back to Mother Earth
Warren Haynes, of Gov't Mule, commented on the loss of Little Milton (Mule recorded with Milton on several occasions):
At 71 he was playing and singing better than ever. As a person, I always found him to be sincere and a real gentleman, which is not always the case when you meet your heroes. His influence on the blues world and the rock and roll world runs so much deeper than most of us realize. He will be sorely missed.
When you hear that kind of feedback from someone who admired and respected the bluesman, it really drives home the fact that Little Milton was as he appeared, a kind spirit, a shining star.
While we here on "Mother Earth" may no longer be blessed by his presence, the heavens do, indeed, gain another shining star. Each song we play, each melody we hum shall serve to make him shine brighter.
Rest in peace, Little Milton. Thank you for your music, your wit, and your warmth. You will be missed.
See BlogCritics for discography
Posted by Da Goddess at 06:08 AM | Comments (2)
June 24, 2005
A Song's Best Friend, John Denver Remembered
When I was growing up, John Denver was as much a part of my life as my mom and dad were. His music could be heard coming over the little am/fm radio in my bedroom. His songs were sung around the fire when I was off camping with the Girl Scouts. He was everywhere. And, with good reason.
Denver had the ability to turn a simple song into a warm embrace. A song meant comfort and home. It was a connection to nature or to a sense of being.
Remarkably, his songs stand the test of time.
The DVD, A Song's Best Friend, John Denver Remembered, captures the singer-songwriter at his best. With loving words from Annie Denver, producer Milt Okun, manager Hal Thau, and many others, we are led on an enchanting tour of his world. Vintage footage and voice overs from Denver himself are included, making for a very intimate stroll down memory lane.
The sound quality of the DVD is exceptional, as is the video production. It's a real treat!
After watching the DVD many times over, I couldn't help but think of what John Denver might have contributed to music had it not been for the tragic accident that claimed his life. While we will never be able to realize that dream, this loving tribute is here to remind us that Denver brought us sunshine, beauty, and a passion for life with every song.
Whether you're a fan of John Denver's music or not, his legacy is collection of rich music with heart unlikely to be recreated by any of today's artists.
Also posted at BlogCritics.org
Posted by Da Goddess at 01:41 AM | Comments (1)
June 18, 2005
No Cameras
The Del Mar San Diego County Fair - REO Speedwagon in concert. It's free with admission to the fair, unless you want to pay an arm and a leg for dinner and special seating. My friend and I stand off to the right of the reserved seats amid the crowd of people who, like us, don't want to go up to the free grandstand seats above. As we walked in there were signs everywhere stating NO CAMERAS. Being a good girl, I put my camera away. Being a free-thinking, independent woman, I took it out again once the show started.
Here you can get a better sense of how far away we were from the stage - and this was slightly zoomed in. Thank goodness for that 10x optical zoom!
After the show, we went to sit so that my back could stop screaming obscenities at me. Once the pain meds kicked in, I was able to get up and walk around with my friend's daughter. The fair has changed a lot, but not so much that I didn't remember what it was like to be a kid amongst all the rides and midway games. I got photos of those as well and will eventually edit them. For now, I'm just really pleased with the way the concert photos turned out.
Posted by Da Goddess at 05:54 AM | Comments (12)
June 10, 2005
Liner Notes
Gotta thank everyone who made Vegas possible: My friends John and Beth - for the plane ticket; Dusty and her hubby - for getting a good rate on the room for me and for picking me up at McCarran; Tara - cuz she's a mover and a shaker; the Smashes - for the rides ("ground transportation provided by"); the nice man at the airport who pushed my wheelchair; Tony B. - because he's absolutely the sweetest and coolest dude on earth; Dennis - for the warm welcome and always being there for the guys; Kenny Kramme - for taking time to stop and talk to my friend's son ("I met a real live rock star!") and for that kick ass solo; Eric Czar - (is this the part where I'm supposed to call you the best bassist in the world???) who is the greatest bass player I've ever seen and also being the (is it sexiest?) sexiest rock star in the world; Lea - for being an absolute angel; and super big thanks to Joe Bonamassa - because without him, I'd be without so many of the wonderful blessings in my life. He provided the soundtrack and the rest fell into place.
Really.
Without Joe, I wouldn't know many of the folks I now consider family. It all started with a blind date mentioning Joe's name. Sure, that guy's history, as is the first guy with whom I ever saw Joe, and the second (although, technically, he didn't make it in time to see Joe play.) Other than that, the family has only continued to grow and grow.
Posted by Da Goddess at 11:08 PM | Comments (3)
May 24, 2005
Albert
Posted by Da Goddess at 01:28 AM | Comments (0)
Tommy
Posted by Da Goddess at 12:58 AM | Comments (0)
Lafayette
Posted by Da Goddess at 12:47 AM | Comments (0)
Bill Magee
Posted by Da Goddess at 12:39 AM | Comments (0)
Youthful Exuberance
Posted by Da Goddess at 12:15 AM | Comments (0)
May 23, 2005
Blues Mama in Green
The music moved her. No walker was going to hold her back. She was a vision of pure joy and ageless beauty. I spoke with her daughter and was told, "she won't stop dancing until the good Lord tells her to."
Posted by Da Goddess at 11:58 PM | Comments (1)
April 15, 2005
Got Belly?
Do you have a belly? Are you willing to share a photo of it? Nothing X rated...just a revealing shot of your tummy....for a chance to win music and a spot on a website banner?
Leave a comment with a valid email and I'll send you details.
Posted by Da Goddess at 11:26 PM | Comments (15)
April 12, 2005
Bandwidth, Anyone?
Anyone have server/bandwidth available? The kind that could support streaming music?
Posted by Da Goddess at 10:02 AM | Comments (2)
March 30, 2005
Shemekia Copeland
A couple weeks ago, Greg Z came to visit. Shemekia Copeland was performing down at Humphrey's Backstage Lounge and Greg treated me to the show. Shemekia's a dynamo and man, that chick can sing! I took a few photos, of course. Enjoy!
Posted by Da Goddess at 07:47 PM | Comments (1)