Bob Wills and My Grandfather

I admit that I have some hillbilly blood. It comes from my maternal grandfather. He was born in Missouri and raised in Kansas. He loved music, especially country music. I hated riding in the car with him as a child since country was always on the radio. But, as I grew older, I discovered some of the singers that my grandfather probably listened to as a young man. It wasn't until a few months ago that I discovered Bob Wills in his stack of cds.  I decided to give it a chance. What I heard I liked. So, I uploaded some songs on to my MP3 player, and over the coming weeks, decided that I really really liked it. 

For those who don't know, Bob Wills is considered the king of western swing. The music mixes the elements of country with the elements of jazz. It is an upbeat music that is great for dancing. Bob Wills formed the Texas Playboys in 1934 and continued until his poor health in the early 60s. 

I often find myself listening to his songs more frequently than others. It was to my surprised when I was told that my grandfather had a run-in with Mr. Wills. The story is Bob Wills "stole" the girl that my grandfather was interested in. Apparently, he got over it though, because he still listened to him later in life. 

Not all music our grandparents and parents listen to is our style, but sometimes there are gems to be found that they knew about long before we did.

Sacramento Music Festival

As mentioned in my last post, I attended the Sacramento Music Festival this weekend. I think the last time I went, I was about 16 or 17. After that, I stopped doing family outings. Now that I am quite a bit older, I have fun hanging out with my parents again. I really wanted to take my dad this year since he loves going, but can't really afford the ticket prices. When I purchased the tickets, the line-up wasn't out yet. By the time it was, I had forgotten to check. So, when I arrived, I was quite excited about the headliners. Two of the headliners I missed was James Hunter, who played on Friday night, and The Blasters, who played too late for my parents Saturday night. But, who I did get to see, was Wanda Jackson.

The festival is mostly contained in the Old Sacramento area, but there are two other hotels a bit farther down, that also host a venue. In the morning, my parents and I arrived just before the second sets were starting. So, we decided to pick a blues band so that we could sit down and plan the rest of the day. The artist was a 20 years old harmonica player, named Kyle Rowland,  who has been playing since he was about ten years old.

The next venue went to was the main stage that was featuring a zydeco band, which my parents enjoyed. After eating, we had some time to kill, so we went to the Railroad Museum that I featured in my last post.

The afternoon was my choosing. The first band I picked for the afternoon was Lost Dog Found. I quite enjoyed their set. Upon walking in to the venue, I saw a familiar face. The bass player, who was filling in for the regular bass player, is the very Whiskey Pills who plays with Jinx Jones at the saloon (blogged here).  It was nice to see someone I knew, and I also really enjoyed the set. I even bought a cd. I also took some video, though most of what can be seen is the backs of the gentlemen in front of me.

The next band I chose was a classic rockabilly cover band named Dave Bennett and the Memphis Boys, who specialize in Jerry Lee Lewis covers. The crowd really loved them and their on stage antics. They got quite an ovation. 

The highlight of my weekend was watching Wanda Jackson. Since I have yet to attend Viva Las Vegas, I had never seen her live. The program had two different times for her show, one at 6:30 and one at 7:30. Not wanting to have to stand in the back, I actually got to the venue at 5:45 to secure hay bail seats. But, her set didn't start until 7:30. It was worth the wait, though. I was pleased, that though she had a hiccup or two, her voice is still pretty good for being in her 70s. She played a couple of my favorite songs, but also did a few of her newer songs, and to be honest, I didn't even know she had new songs. Again, I was able to take some video, though most of it this time were the tops of people's heads.

Monday Night Jazz

If you remember from previous posts (here and here), I have a talented friend who plays trumpet. A few months ago, he informed me that he auditioned, and got the part, in a new band of local talent. The goal of the band is to practice for three months, and then do a finale concert. The venue for the concert was a newly built jazz center near the symphony hall. Even though the center has been opened for several months, I hadn't had the chance to go. I was quite excited to not only visit the new center, but hear my friend do what he does well. I joined a row of his family and friends, which included his wife and sister. We were probably the loudest than anyone else cheering on their loved ones during their solos. But, he deserved it.

I couldn't get a good photo either with or without flash, but the venue was great for getting good sound on a recording. Below are a couple of songs that were performed, though, unfortunately I missed out on recording his solo.

I was probably the most dressed up person there. But, since I haven't been out since the arrival of my kitty, it felt good to dress up. After getting a clean bill of health from the vet, the first round of shots, and a rough week of potty training, I was ready to hear some great music. My hair didn't turn out as well as I would have liked it to. But, again, I was lazy in setting it. I guess you can't have happy accidents twice in a row. If you recall, the hat I am wearing is the $2 hat I found at the estate sale a little while ago.

The Weekend and the Start of Healing

It hasn't been a week yet since I had to put my Rhea down, but I already had a full weekend scheduled long before that traumatic day. As the weekend got nearer, I had mixed feelings. I was happy that I was going to be busy, but a little overwhelmed too. Saturday didn't start off so well. I was going through waves of grief, and because of that, any little frustration made me cry. So, my Saturday morning started with welled up eyes.  I attended an all day event with over 900 people, many that I knew. I wasn't feeling very social, and didn't feel like smiling. I had planned an outfit for this day months ago. I had also planned on doing a whole blog post, but when the day came, I didn't feel like having my picture taken. My friend took a couple photos on her phone, and I tried my hardest to smile. 

The suit I was wearing was made by the lovely shop Top Runway (She is also here and here.)  This was my fifth suit that I ordered from her, but my first custom suit. I had seen the suit on a film noir and saved some screen shots to have it made. I finally was able to get it done a few months ago. As always I was very pleased with it. The down side to not being in the mood to have my picture taken, is you can't really get a good view of the suit. And, the screen shots are not very crisp either.

That evening my friend was having a cocktail/housewarming party, and by that time I was feeling better. But, I got tired quickly from the long day and the emotional week, and went home early. I was feeling much better by Sunday morning, though I was still pretty tired. I spend the morning getting a few things done, and felt rather accomplished. A friend came over to help me with some of my tasks. We got done early, and decided to head over to the closet adoption center to play with the kitties. I picked out one cat who was a snuggler - just what I needed. As soon as I sat down, she jumped in my lap and wouldn't leave. 

This happened on Wednesday too. My mom and I went over to a local SPCA so that I could be around the animals. I picked out a cute puppy I wanted to spend some time with. She was a chihuahua mix about five months old. She was all white except the black around her eyes and on one ear. The other ear was spotted black. She also wouldn't leave my lap. Animals bring so much joy.

After we visited the kitty, we headed over to a friends house nearby for a jam session. It was relaxing listening to them play some Bossa Nova and some old jazz standards. We left a bit early and caught the tail end of one of the warmer days we have had this year. Though overwhelming at first, by the end of the weekend my smiles were real. 

I seriously hate how the Blogger has changed as regard to uploading videos. I can no longer add a video by url, but rather can only search. I use a different account for my YouTube account, which makes things even more difficult. I really wanted to up load a video of my friends on this post, but instead can only give you a link (Try as I might, I can't seem to find this video by just searching). You can watch it here.

New to Me Music - The Royal Rhythmaires

I am always on the hunt for new music, especially after purging a lot of what I already had. I found myself constantly skipping songs, because I was not in the mood to listen to them. After a while, I realized that I was always skipping the same songs. It was time to purge. Now I am on a search for music to fill the void. One of the groups I discovered in my search was The Royal Rhythmaires.

This group hails from Fort Worth, Texas. The band consists of a two saxophones, an upright bass, a piano, drums, and a vocalist. Their music is heavily influenced by early rhythm and blues. It is sure to keep your foot tapping, if it does not get you up to dance. I have listened to the entire album since purchasing it a couple weeks ago, and haven't come across a song I didn't like. I enjoy vocalist Jai Malano's soulful voice. It seems that there are few bands that have this sound. I was super excited that I came across their music. 

You can check out their facebook page to download the track Cajun Boy and listen to other tracks. Looks like they mostly tour around Texas. I hope someday they make it farther out. I'd love to see them live. 

What are some of your favorite modern bands?

Rockabilly Boogie

I didn't exactly get my boogie on, but I did get to see a very talented local musician last night. I had found out about his show the weekend before at the Hillbilly Hootenanny (see the previous post). I knew I had to go. I drug one of my friends to a small bar in North Beach that typically showcases blues to see Jinx Jones play some rockabilly (and a smattering of blues and surf tunes). As with the weekend before, I had a lot of fun. There were several people dancing, including a couple doing swing. They were so much fun to watch. They said they were just beginners, but looked like they had been dancing for years. She invited me to join them at The Savanna Jazz Club to learn myself, but at the moment I'm rather shy. I'm not much of a dancer, and step on my own feet. But, I'd like to learn someday. Maybe this year will be the year I get over my fear.

I enjoy live music a lot, even if I don't get to see it as much as I would like to. I really enjoy meeting talented local musicians, and appreciate the entertainment they provide. I hope to go to future shows, including one back at The Riptide on the 23rd.  If you visit San Francisco, check out Jinx Jones and band the second Friday of the month at The Saloon. 

I took several videos. The first two I couldn't get a good view of the band. This one was the best of the three, but the audio and lighting isn't very good. Hopefully you can hear enough to enjoy the music. If not, you'll just have to try to see Mr. Jones in person.

I have had this dress since I was about 19. It was the first dress I purchased where I knew exactly what era I was buying. Prior to that, I just bought whatever I liked whether it be from the 50s, 60s, or in some cases 70s, but I did not know what the decades of the clothes I purchased were from. Around this time, I was settling into the 50s. I also started to have a grasp of what to look for; what distinguished each decade. This dress has a bolero that I decided not to wear this night. Instead I paired it with a basic black cardigan. When I first bought this outfit, it was a tad bit big for me. But, now that I'm older, and heavier, it fits (though any more weight gain and it will no longer fit).

I saw a vintage brooch very similar to this online. I thought that I could recreate it. So, I bought the pieces and came up with this. I'm quite happy about the way it turned out, although it is a bit different than the original. I think this might just now be my favorite brooch.

Hillbilly Hootenanny West Side Review

A few months ago, I found out about the Hillbilly Hootenanny. It is an event that happens at the Ritptide bar the first Sunday of every month. It sounded interesting, and I kept it in the back of my mind as something to do. I was able to go last night, and had a fun time. The crowd was low key. The musicians were friendly. And, the music was good. I don't know much about country, but did at least recognize two songs, Walking After Midnight and I Still Miss Someone. Check out the video below to preview one of the songs from the playlist. 

The bar was quite small. By the time we got there, the only place to sit and see the band was right in front. I didn't want to flash right in the eyes of the performers. This was the only photo I took with the flash. So, I apologize for the blurriness of the rest of these photos.

Quarterman Jack Champion

Jinx Jones

 Many years ago, I felt my hillbilly blood (my maternal grandfather was a hillbilly) itching to be set free. I went on a vintage western shopping spree, but never felt brave enough to wear it in public. I sold almost everything I had collected except this shirt and these boots. I never wore the boots. Unfortunately,  my feet don't like boots. I am trying to pose with them here, but only one of them is on. The other foot is just sitting inside the boot. I was trying to pose in a way to not make my leg look weirdly jointed, but I just ended up looking like I had an abnormally long leg. I feel a little sad that I can't wear boots (I've tired several times) as I liked this outfit quite a bit.

My Favorite Childhood Music

I didn't grow up in the best of areas. The type of music the kids were listening to around me was music I was forbidden to listen to as a young child. Of course, by today's standards, this music seems tame. But, at the time, my parents did what they could to protect my young mind. Instead of listening to the radio, I listened to what I could get my hands on. This usually meant older music.

My dad had a decent record collection. Though most of it was the singer/songwriter stuff of the mid to late 70s, there were a few records I did enjoy. One of them was his Paul McCartney album. At the time, I did not know who The Beatles were, though as I got older they became my all time favorite band. I practically wore one song out, and that was Maybe I'm Amazed. To this day, I still immensely enjoy this song. 

Another record that I enjoyed I have only recently started to admit. If you know how particular I am, you would never guess that I still secretly, from time to time, listen to selected songs from this album. And, here I am, announcing to the world that I enjoy Taco. Taco, who? Exactly. They were a synth band that did covers of jazz standards. You gotta love the 80s. There were four songs in particular that I would play. They were Puttin on the Ritz, Singing in the Rain, Cheek to Cheek, and La Vie En Rose. 

Another thing I am going to proudly admit? Though I had never seen Singing in the Rain, I was aware of the dance scene in the film. When it rained, I would put this song on as loud as I could, open all the  windows and doors, and dance with an umbrella. I thought I was Gene Kelly. I'm sure the neighbors thought I was the strangest kid they had ever seen. 

I think that this early exposure helped me to have the wide musical taste I have now, and to enjoy music from all decades. Other experiences involved cassette tapes. I don't know what the occasion was, but my grandfather had purchased a box set of oldies for my mother. It was music from the late 50s and early 60s. I don't think my mother ever even opened the package, but I did - and she never saw them again. I would also listen to these tapes over and over. My favorite songs were Why Do Fools Fall in Love and Mr. Sandman. I still remember all the words.

What are some of your early musical memories? Do you have any embarrassing musical stories? I'd love to hear from you. In the meantime, please listen to Taco's version of Puttin on the Ritz below. Please, remember that this was the early 80s, and political correctness was not invented yet.

An Evening With JD McPherson

My friend, Rock On Cali, and I rarely see eye to eye on music. Usually we have polar opposite tastes. But, when I found out that JD McPherson was coming to/near town, I asked her to go with me. I really didn't expect her to say yes. But, I was elated when she did (I even think I was too excited to get much sleep). Neither of us could go to the show at Slim's in San Francisco due to scheduling conflicts. So, we decided to go to the day show in Felton, CA. This is a two hour drive from my house, and a four hour drive from her's. She is a fantastic friend.

It was an unseasonably warm day, which made the day bright and cheery to match my mood. I didn't even need the coat I brought. We started our (my) trek at 10am. Though it was a rather long drive, I was too excited to be bothered. I had never been to Don Quixote's before. It is a restaurant and bar on one side, and music venue on the other. The venue is small with no back stage. So, the band members were able to mingle with the guests. We got there a little early, and were able to get a seat right in front of the stage. The show was set to start at 1pm.

The opening band was Broncho, who are going on to tour with Social Distortion. They sound like late 70s/very early 80s pop punk (if that is a sound). The stage was very crowded with both bands equipment without much room to move around. But, had they had the room, they would have been a very active band. The music was catchy and had me tapping my foot.

JD McPherson and his band (Jimmy on the bass, and Ray on the piano - I can't remember the name of the drummer or the sax player) came on after a short intermission. They played several songs off the album, including Scratching Circles, Country Boy, and of course North Side Gal. They also did a few covers. I am not usually keen on covers, but they did a exceptional job. They also came out for a three song encore.  It was a great show. The whole time I was sitting there, I thought to myself, I can't believe I am here watching JD McPherson and his band up close. The crowd felt it too. Several people danced throughout the set.

Afterward the band went over to the merchandise table where they were able to chat with fans and take photos. This time I decided not to be so shy, and asked both JD and Jimmy for a photo. I think this is the happiest smile I have had in a photo in a while. All of this would have been impossible at a venue like Slim's. So, I am thankful that my friend went with me on the long journey to Felton, CA.

JD McPherson after the show. I didn't say much to him, but in the few words that were exchanged, he was very nice.

The bassist Jimmy Sutton. 

This is a shot of my full outfit.

The Sad Passing of David Brubeck

I'm always sad to hear when someone artist or actor that I enjoyed dies, no matter how hold that person was. My heart sunk this morning when I heard the passing of Dave Brubeck. I wasn't always a fan of his music. Growing up, my father was into smooth jazz. Of course, I hated it (and still do). One of the artists in his collection was David Brubeck. I just assumed he was someone whom I wouldn't like. So, I never gave him the chance. Then one day I sat down to watch Ken Burn's documentary on Jazz. By this time I was already an adult, and had quite an extensive collection of jazz - but no Dave Brubeck. It was this documentary where I discovered Brubeck's music. I loved it. I have even tried to get my friends who play piano to learn some of the pieces. 

Blue Rondo A La Turk is my favorite song of his. I love the timing that is not typical of most music (at least in my limited musical knowledge it isn't).  If you haven't yet discovered the brilliance of David Brubeck, please check out the song below.

My Claim to Fame - Sun Records

There aren't too many things I can brag about. So, when I find something I can talk about, I play it for all it's worth. This is especially true with my connection to Sun Records. It is the thing I brag about the most. So, here it goes.

My grandfather's brother-in-law grew up in Memphis. He went to the same high school as Elvis, though he was a few grades behind Elvis. Later, my great-uncle (by marriage) worked at Sun Records, and was a disc jockey. In 1959, he played guitar on a 45 that he cut with Jerry McGill. He owns just about the entire catalog of Sun Records. When he found out that I was in to classic rockabilly, he gladly burned some of those 45s (ok maybe all of them) onto cd for me. This was quite a few years ago, and I am still hanging on to these burned discs. I can't imagine how exciting it would have been to be a teenager and discover this new style of music, one that would have a cult following decades and decades later. I have always wanted to visit Sun to see the birthplace of where it all started. Maybe some day I'll be able to, but in the meantime, I still have my small connection to the label.

Nick Waterhouse and me

Ok. Not really Nick Waterhouse and me. But, I did go to his show tonight. This was the second time I have seen him play. The first time was a year go at Bottom of the Hill in San Francisco. (The original post is here.) Tonight a friend accompanied me to see him at Bimbos. It was an amazing show as was the last time. I had been looking forward to this show for months, and was not disappointed. If you haven't heard of him, please do yourself a favor and check out his music. I won't go on about how great he is, because that's all in my last post. But, I'd like to tell you a little history about Bimbos.

If Bottom of the Hill is my favorite venue, because of it's intimate nature, than Bimbos is my second favorite. I really feel like I am stepping back in time when I walk into this club. And, Bimbos does have a history. In 1931 Agostino Giuntoli, aka Bimbo, opened the 365 club on Market Street. Many celebrities graced the stage, including Rita Hayworth, then known as Rita Cansino. In 1951, Bimbos moved to it's current location on Columbus. The decor and feel of the club feels like I imagine it would in the 50s. Even the women's bathroom has little pink vanity seats to freshen up makeup, or make sure seams are straight. In the foyer, there is mid century wood paneling on the walls. On the right of the front doors is the coat check complete with vintage memorabilia on display. The mascot of the club, a nude woman riding a goldfish, graces the center display just beyond the front doors. I wish I could have taken photos, but the club does not allow cameras. Though that didn't stop us from sneaking pictures of Nick Waterhouse during his set. 

I would have also liked to take a picture with Nick, but was too shy to approach him as he walked around prior to the show. I was shy the last time as well. By the time I got the nerve to track him down at the last show, he slipped into the back, and I didn't see him again. Maybe next time I will be brave enough to ask him for a photo.

Dogpatch Saloon Jam Night

Last night I had a good time watching live jazz at the Dogpatch Saloon. Among the performers were my two friends, Bridget and Chris. Bridget is a vocalist. Chris plays the trumpet. They are both very talented.  I wish there was more support for the jazz scene so that my friends could showcase their talents. But, for now, I take the rare opportunities available to watch them perform. I've recorded a couple of songs for your enjoyment below. (For some reason I cannot figure out how to upload more than one video. Maybe this is an update in Blogger, because I used to be able to. If anyone can help me figure this out, please let me know.)

Losing a blues legend

In my opinion singers now days cannot come close to the soul that singers of the past possessed. One of those signers just passed away, Etta James. Here is a little tribute to Etta and one of my favorite song sung by her.

October 24, 1953

Margot, her daughter, and I went to see a singer named Tony Bennett. It was a nice show. This guy has a pretty good voice. He is a crooner like Frank, but I like him a little better.

Bottom of the HIll - Nick Waterhouse

I would like to have a small intermission from Ruby's life to jump forward in time to the present. I wanted to tell you about a show I went to last night that I thought was pretty amazing. I went to the Bottom of the Hill for a show I had been waiting to see since I first discovered this artist. There were three bands playing last night. I wasn't too keen on the first, and left before the last band played. But my goal of the night was fulfilled when Nick Waterhouse and band came on the stage. He did not disappoint me. To me, the Bottom of the Hill is the perfect place to see a band because of the small intimate nature of the club. After the first band packed up their gear, my friend and I made our way to the front to bop and sway to the sounds emanating from the stage. I've never been to a show where I have moved to the music (you may call this dancing, but that would require rhythm.) so much. Usually it is just a head bob, or toe tap. But, Nick Waterhouse had me moving my hips, shoulders, head, fingers, and toes.  I could have listened to them play more than just one set. Apparently the audience could have too, for when it was over, they shouted "More!" When it was all over, my night was complete. My dreams were sweet. And, my heart is now taken by this man in a vintage suit.

I tried to take video, but soon discovered that my phone is not well equipped for this task. So, please check out the video I swiped from someone on you tube. I hope you find his music as enjoyable as I did.

May 28, 1953

I finally got to meet our mysterious housemate. He came home last night, and was home long enough for me to be able to talk to him. He looks kind of rebellious, but interesting.  I found out he is originally from Tennessee. He's only been here for about half a year. He says he doesn't plan on staying too much longer. He says he is a wanderer. When he gets the itch to leave, he just gets up and goes. He's into a music I haven't heard before. He says someday it's going to really catch on. He lent me a couple records. It's pretty catchy, and makes me want to move. I wonder where I can get more of these records.

May 6, 1953

Payday! I'm so happy that I am making money again. The first thing I did after work was go to the record store. I haven't been in such a long time. I was longing for some new music. It's a little easier picking out the music I like in this city. I don't get nearly as many strange looks as I did before. I picked out a Faye Adams number called I'll Be True. The b side is pretty nifty too. The other record I bought was the Five Royales Help Me Somebody. I'll be playing this one over and over. It was a perfect ending to the work week.

February 4, 1953

Eddie finally took me out tonight. He took me to see Louis Prima. It was a show I actually enjoyed. We sat right up front. My favorite song he sang was Oh Marie. After ward Eddie took me dancing. It was so nice to get out of the house, even if it seems that we do the same thing every time we go out.

Photo from ElectroSpark

December 26, 1952

I decided to go back to the record store to buy something that I thought maybe both Eddie and I could agree on. I picked up The Dave Brubeck Quartet, and brought it home. I played it for him when he came over. And, sure enough, he said he liked it. Maybe he'll take me to see them someday.