February 2020 Magazine

Long Live The Cowboy Tour

ad - live nation

FEBRUARY 28 TICKETS at ParkerPlayhouse.com • Ticketmaster | 954.462.0222 Group Sales | 954.660.6307 The Parker Playhouse 2019-2020 season is presented by the Broward Performing Arts Foundation.

Follow us:

#ParkerPlayhouse

ad - HARD ROCK LIVE

TICKETS at ParkerPlayhouse.com • Ticketmaster | 954.462.0222 • Group Sales | 954.660.6307 The Parker Playhouse 2019-2020 season is presented by the Broward Performing Arts Foundation.

Follow us:

#ParkerPlayhouse

Grace Potter | Revolution Live Photo: Jay Skolnick

4 | www.SFLMusic.com

ad - REVOLUTION

Marshall Tucker Band | Charles F. Dodge Center Photo: Jay Skolnick

Bobby Wilson | The Funky Biscuit Photo: Jay Skolnick

6 | www.SFLMusic.com

8 | www.SFLMusic.com

February 2020

Issue #92 PUBLISHERS Jay Skolnick Jay@SFLMusic.com Gary Skolnick Gary@SFLMusic.com EDITOR IN CHIEF Sean McCloskey Sean@SFLMusic.com SENIOR EDITOR Todd McFliker Todd@SFLMusic.com

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Gary Skolnick Gary@SFLMusic.com OPERATIONS MAGAGER Jessica Delgadillo Jessica@SFLMusic.com

4. GRACE POTTER 6. MARSHALL TUCKER BAND 6. BOBBY WILSON 11. HAVEN STAR 12. CELINE DION

22

14. FRANK BEY 18. YNGWIE MALMSTEEN 21. ANA POPOVIC 22. GEOFF TATE 26. JOHN LODGE 28. KAT RIGGINS 31. JOHN FOGERTY 32. 99.9 CHILI COOK OFF 34. LEO KOTKE

26

34. HOT TUNA 36. ALBERT CASTIGLIA 38. LETTUCE

ADVERTISING Info@SFLMusic.com CONTRIBUTORS Brad Stevens Ray Anton • Lori Smerilson Carson Tom Craig • Megan Garzone Peter “Blewzzman” Lauro Alex Liscio • Janine Mangini Angel Melendez • Nathan Rose Romy Santos • David Shaw Darla Skolnick

42. MICKEY HART 44. BEATLES ON THE BEACH 46. JIM MESSINA 52. REGGAE JAM 54. JJ GREY & MOFRO 56. THE FLOYD EXPERIENCE

38

58. HARD RICHARDS 60. ENGELBERT

COVER PHOTO Ronnie Yonker SFL Music Magazine is a community newspaper that is published monthly in Boca Raton, Florida. All contents are copyright 2020 by the AWG Group, LLC, and may not be reproduced without written permission of the publisher.

HUMPERDINK 60. ALLMAN BROS NYE CELEBRATION 62. ON THE SCENE 63. CLASSIFIEDS

46

GEORGIA ON MY MIND Celebrating the Music of Ray Charles

Ray Charles, a Georgia native, is an American treasure and truly a genius! He spread his music based on gospel, blues, jazz and country around the world. On this night we celebrate Ray’s music with an all-star cast of award winning performers featuring Ten-time Grammy ® award-winning vocal sensation, Take 6; Emmy Award winner Clint Holmes; 6-time Grammy ® nominated vocalist, Nnenna Freelon and six-time Grammy ® nominee and DownBeat Vocalist of the Year; Kirk Whalum.

MARCH 6 TICKETS at ParkerPlayhouse.com • Ticketmaster | 954.462.0222 Group Sales | 954.660.6307 The Parker Playhouse 2019-2020 season is presented by the Broward Performing Arts Foundation.

10 | www.SFLMusic.com

Follow us:

#ParkerPlayhouse

Haven Star | Crazy Uncle Mike’s Photo: Jay Skolnick

Celine Dion | AmericanAirlines Arena Photo: Chris Gordon

12 | www.SFLMusic.com

Join Us for

BOCA LOCALS

HAPPY HOUR

$5

, $5 BEERS & $5-8 FOOD SPECIALS FRIDAYS 3-7PM

LIVE MUSIC | ENTERTAINMENT CRAZY UNCLE MIKE’S

6450 N. FEDERAL HWY BOCA RATON, FL 561-931-2889 | WWW.CRAZYUNCLEMIKES.COM

he knew that there was no way to stop Frank Bey. With several bass’s, several horns and several percussionists teaming up, the rhythm groove is relentless, and with super background support from the ladies, Frank’s singing it just like he lived it.

Song of the year credentials are all over this one.

Since it’s been forty years ago that George Jones had a monster hit with “He Stopped Loving Her Today” (B. Braddock/C. Putnam), Frank Bey’s version has me thinking that if Nola Blue Records sent it to country radio, lightning could very well strike twice. After all, the song constantly pops up on surveys as one of the greatest country songs of all times and - with the heart and soul Frank’s putting into it - I’m loving the idea. The sullen rhythm groove Jim, Jerry and Alex are in; the heavenly sounding strings of Don and Kimberly: andLisa’s angelic humming are all perfect accompaniments for the songs melancholy mood.

FRANK BEY “ALL MY DUES ARE PAID”

“All My Dues Are Paid” - quite a matter of fact title - is Frank Bey’s sixth release and it’s his second on the Nola Blue Label.

The thirteen track disc was produced and co-produced by Kid Andersen and Rick Estrin and was recorded at Kid’s Greaseland Studio - a place where some of the best musicians in the business have been known to hang out.

During these sessions those who were hanging out to back up Frank’s lead vocals included: Jim Pugh on organ, piano, Rhodes and Wurlitzer; Eric Spaulding and Nancy Wright on tenor sax; Jack Sanford on baritone and tenor sax; Rick Feliciano on trombone; John Halbleib on trumpet; Alex Peterson, Derrick “D’mar” Martin and Paul Revelli on drums; Jerry Jemmott on bass; Paul Olguin on lead bass guitar; Martin Windstad on percussion and congas; Kid Andersen on guitar, baritone guitar, vocals, percussion, organ and Wurlitzer; Vicki Randle on congas and percussion; Don Dally and Kimberly Kistler on strings; Lorenzo Farrell on organ and Wurlitzer; Aki Kumar and June Core on handclaps; and Lisa Leuschner Andersen, Willie Walker, Rick Estrin, D’Mar, Loralee Christensen and Dennis, Walter and Dwayne Morgan - collectively known as The Sons Of the Soul Revivers on vocals......Phew! That was tough and I hope I got ‘em all.

Until now, when it came to making a statement with an album title, I always thought that the loudest ever made was by Willie Dixon with “I Am The Blues” (1970). That said, Frank Bey declaring “All My Dues Are Paid” also packs quite the punch. On the title track - which he collaborated on with K. Murray, R. Estrin and K. Andersen - Frank tells of the days of being black and poor while living in the south; along with being used, abused and played by friends who were nothing more than parasites and snakes. Through it all, and later medical issues as well, Frank always kept on pushing and although no one else did 14 | www.SFLMusic.com

It may be a Nightcats song but Kid and Rick hit the nail on the head giving it to Frank to sing. He’s not only singing “I’ll Bet I Never Cross Your Mind” (R. Estrin) like he wrote it, but like he lived it and knows exactly who he’s singing it to, as well.

Needing to recall what the original version sounded like I just took a quick visit to YouTube and came to the conclusion that although quite similar, I’m liking the feel Jim adds with the organ vs a piano and the sultriness Nancy added with her style on the sax. Great track.

He’s sung blues, he’s sung soul, he’s sung country and now, on this big band style track, Frank Bey’s singing some jump jazz.

Although I’m not suggesting it (:>), it wouldn’t surprise me if Frank could rap as well. With some of the disc’s most smoking rhythm by a double dose of the Pauls on bass and drums and Lorenzo on keys; Jack, Eric and John nailing the horn arrangements; and Kid killing it on the guitar; “Never No More” (P. Mayfield/D. Malone) is indeed the dance floor filler.

How can a song with relatively sad lyrics sound so wonderful and uplifting? Just give a listen to Frank singing “If It’s Really Got To Be This Way” (A. Alexander/D. Fitts/ G. Nicholson) and you’ll know exactly how. On the only track with just a four piece band behind him, Frank Bey absolutely shines on this beautifully done vocal presentation.

Every time I hear this song, I can’t “Imagine” (J. Lennon) ever hearing a more enlightening song with such hopeful lyrics.

With his more powerful, more soulful and more heartfelt rendition, Frank - and this amazing group of musicians performing it with him - take the song to a whole other level.

Other incredibly done tracks on “All My Dues Are Paid” include:”Idle Hands” (R. Biancol/M. Kane); “One Of These Days” (W. Troinai/H. Hoye); “Calling All Fools” (R. Estrin); “It’s A Pleasure”and “One Thing Every Day” ( M. H. Schermer); “Ha Ha In The Daytime” (P. Mayfield); and “Perfect Day” (L. Reed).

My track record when making statements like I’m about to make is quite respectable. That said, with a handful of past BMA winners involved on this project, don’t be surprised should you see Sallie Bengtson walking to the stage to pick up Nola Blue’s first Blues Music Award come May. Remember where you heard it!

Although this legendary artist is very well known to most of you, should you like to learn more about Frank Bey just go to www. frankbeymusic.com. - Peter “Blewzzman” Laur www.Mary4Music.com

GO SEE IT LIVE! February 1 /Saturday

Lady Gaga – Meridian Isle Maroon 5 - American Airlines Arena Zac Brown Band – BB&T Center Roman Street – Funky Biscuit The Milky Westcotts – Crazy Uncle Mike’s Citizen Cope – Culture Room Light of Led Zeppelin – Kelsey Theater Recycled Percussion – Lyric Theatre

February 2 / Sunday

Live from Laurel Canyon – Parker Playhouse

February 3 / Monday Biscuit Jam – The Flyers

February 4 / Tuesday

Kris Kristofferson – Parker Playhouse John Harris & Rockin Jake – Funky Biscuit Abbacadabra – Lyric Theatre

February 5 / Wednesday

Joan Osborn – Crest Theatre

February 6 / Thursday

Lucinda Williams & Buick 6 – Parker Playhouse Lewis Black – Coral Springs Center Funk You – Funky Biscuit Clay Goldsteins NattyBos – Crazy Uncle Mikes Yonder Mountain String Band – Culture Room Natural Wonder – Revolution Live Cocktail Cabaret – Lyric Theatre

February 7 / Friday

Big Sam’s Funky Nation– Funky Biscuit Biscuit Miller – Arts Garage Frankie Valli – Seminole Hard Rock Yacht Rock Radio Review – Revolution Live The Flyers – Crazy Uncle Mikes Jordan Laurenti – Brewhouse Gallery Phil Vassar – Lyric Theatre

February 8 / Saturday

Frankie Valli – Seminole Hard Rock The Best Doo Wop Vol III – Parker Playhouse Phil Vasser Acoustic – Funky Biscuit Tand – Crazy Uncle Mikes Loyal Opposition – Brewhouse Gallery

February 9 / Sunday

Pirates of Penzance – Broward Center Lillias White - Adventura Center Beatles for Kids – Funky Biscuit Bel Canto Trio – Lyric Theatre

February 10 / Monday

Biscuit Jam – Tas Cru Lilias White – Old School Square Crest Theater February 11 / Tuesday Andrea Bocelli – AAA Hector Anchondo – Funky Biscuit Lilias White – Crest Theater Periphery – Revolution Live Trey McLaughlin – Lyric Theatre 16 | www.SFLMusic.com

February 12 / Wednesday

John Pizzarelli Trio – Broward Center Don Felder – Parker Playhouse Los Lobos – Charles F. Doge Center Pembroke Pines Mandy Patinkin – Broward Center Falling in Reverse – Revolution Live Lee “Scratch” Perry – Kelsey Theater Al Stewart – Lyric Theatre

February 13 / Thursday

Samantha Fish – Funky Biscuit Leoni Torres – The Fillmore Jersey Boys – Coral Springs Center JL Fulks Band – Crazy Uncle Mikes

February 14 / Friday

Jefferson Starship – Gulfstream Park Yacht Rock Valentines Fling – Broward Center The Outlaws – Parker Playhouse Samantha Fish – Funky Biscuit The Main Squeeze – Revolution Live Leoni Torres – The Fillmore St. Colemans Italian Festival -St. Colemans Church Pompano Happy Hour Witheldub – Crazy Uncle Mikes Tinsley Ellis w/ JL Fulks – Kelsey Theater River Tramps – Brewhouse Gallery Turnstiles – Lyric Theatre

February 15 / Saturday

Music of Bobby Darin – Parker Playhouse Turnstiles – Funky Biscuit Lee “Scratch” Perry – Culture Room St. Colemans Italian Festival -St. Colemans Church Pompano British Lion – Revolution Live JL Fulks & Jakob Takos – Brewhouse Gallery The Machine – Lyric Theatre

Pepper – Culture Room Bravo Amici – Lyric Theatre

February 21 / Friday

Big Bad Voodoo Daddy-Parker Playhouse Jerry Seinfeld – Seminole Hard Rock Beach Boys - Coral Springs Center Judy Collins – FAU The Subdudes – Funky Biscuit Eric McFadden – Crazy Uncle Mikes Completely Unchained – Revolution Live

February 22 / Saturday

Jerry Seinfeld – Seminole HardRock MI Rattlers / Uproot Hootenanny– Funky Biscuit John Fogarty – Broward Center John Lodge from Moody Blues – Casino at Dania Beach Jim Messina – Funky Biscuit Guavatron – Crazy Uncle Mikes The Kronikles – Brewhouse Gallery Julie Budd – Lyric Theater

February 23 / Sunday

Jim Messina – Funky Biscuit Nicole Yarling – Arts Garage Rod Stewart – Seminole Hard Rock Muddy Ruckus – Brewhouse Gallery Moody Blues’ John Lodge – Lyric Theatre

February 24 / Monday

Tommy Emmanuel – Parker Playhouse Biscuit Jam – JL Fulks

February 25 / Tuesday

The Nucklebusters – Funky Biscuit Shelea / Soul – Lyric Theatre

February 26 / Wednesday

February 16 / Sunday

Bee Gees Stayin Alive – Parker Playhouse Brandon “Taz” Niederauer – Funky Biscuit

February 17 / Monday

Firefall & Pure Prairie League – Gulfstream Park Rev. Peyton’s Big Damn Band – Funky Biscuit Magic Of Motown – Lyric Theatre

St. Colemans Italian Festival -St. Colemans Church Pompano Biscuit Jam – Josh Smith Pre-Cruise Party

February 18 / Tuesday

Willie Nelson – Broward Center Lisanne Lyons Jazz Trio – Broward Center Steve Ross – Abdo New River Room Seth Rosenbloom – Funky Biscuit Allen Stone – Culture Room Wallows – Revolution Live Chris O’Leary Band Brewhouse Gallery Fleetwood Mac Tribute – Lyric Theatre

February 19 / Wednesday

Mark Telesca – CD & Book Signing – Funky Biscuit En Vogue / Bell Biv Devoe - Broward Center Tribute to ABBA – Fillmore Shaw Davis & the Black Ties – Double Roads Tavern Jim Messina – Lyric Theatre

February 20 / Thursday

The Subdudes – Funky Biscuit

February 27 / Thursday

February 28 / Friday

Bob Weir & Wolf Brothers – Fillmore Clay Walker Cowboy Tour – Parker Playhouse Stanley Jordan – Arts Garage Nikki Hill – Funky Biscuit Rocket Man Show – Coral Springs Center Candlebox – Culture Room Jacquees – Revolution Live Shawn Manley & Kevin O – Brewhouse Gallery Stayin Alive – Lyric Theatre

February 29 / Saturday

Gladys Knight – Seminole Hard Rock Joe Conti’s Benefit- 2pm – Funky Biscuit Fabulous Fleetwood – Funky Biscuit Eric Culberson – Double Roads Tavern Candlebox – Culture Room Runaway Gin – Revolution Live Steep Canyon Rangers – Lyric Theatre

ad - Culture Room

Yngwie Malmsteen

blasts from the fog machine enveloped Yngwie several times during his set. The show was an opportunity to see a different side of the maestro, as he continually switched guitars and fielded questions from the audience. He explained that Johan Sebastian Bach is one of his main influences.

While South Florida has had some major talent pass through the area over the years, such as Eric Clapton and The Eagles, as well as jazz greats Joe Diorio, Jaco Pastorious and Pat Matheny in the 70s, Miami has had one of the most influential rock guitarists of all time living amongst us for the last 30 years. Yngwie Malmsteen exploded on the seen in the early 80s and knocked the rock guitar world on its ear, much like Jimi Hendrix did in the 60s and Eddie Van Halen did in the latter 70s.

Yngwie also said that he loves living in Miami, even if the Dolphins suck. Later, he battled some technical difficulties as his guitar sound cut in and out. One of the highlights was Yngwie’s amazing rendition of the “Star Spangled Banner.”

He successfully captured the pageantry of our National Anthem.

Culture Room December 27, 2019

We have been fortunate that Yngwie has provided us many opportunities to catch him live, the latest chance was at Fort Lauderdale’s Culture Room on Friday, December 27th.

Unlike his previous shows, this one was more like a clinic.

There was no opening band and no backing band, just a wall of 28 Marshall heads sitting on 14 Marshall 4x12 cabinets. He played a white Fender Stratocaster over prerecorded backing tracks.

At 9:30, the lights went off, fog filled the stage, and wild arpeggios blasted out of the wall of Marshalls. Yngwie walked out, greeted the crowd and asked someone offstage to start the first track of the night, “Baroque and Roll.” Intermittent 18 | www.SFLMusic.com

One of the questions Yngwie answered was about his ambitions. He explained that growing up in a household with a family of classically trained musicians, he had always wanted to compose a symphony. Yngwie was recently able to do exactly that with the Prague Symphony. He performed one of songs he wrote for that performance and it was quite stunning. The man’s electric guitar playing would normally be handled by a violinist.

By the end of the evening, the audience learned that e also found out that Yngwie uses a custom gauge string set (8-48) and Seymour Duncan ‘Aegis 59’ pickups in his guitars. The blend of virtuosic playing mixed in with tidbits of his life really made the show rather intimate. Someone asked if it was true that he started playing guitar when Hendrix died. Yngwie revealed that it was actually when he saw footage of Jimi

breaking a guitar that he wanted to play.

Yngwie ended his set with one of his most recognized songs, “Far Beyond the Sun.” He came back out for an encore and played an instrumental version of “Rising Force.”

I am thrilled I experienced this hybrid concert/clinic, as I got to hear fantastic music. At the same time, I got to know more about one of South Florida’s prized local artists. I’m also thrilled that Yngwie saw the historic footage of Jimi breaking the guitar. – Ray Anton, Photos Jay Skolnick

ad - culture room

20 | www.SFLMusic.com

Ana Popovic | Broward Center Photo: Jay Skolnick

SFL Music: Tell me about the tour, the Empire 30th Anniversary? What can fans look forward to?

Geoff Tate: Well, play all the music, from the album really.

That’s a first for me. There’s several songs on the album I’ve never ever played live.

So, that will be a real treat, I think. At least from my perspective. That’s always something incredibly special. I think it’s a wonderful time period to kind of go back to and revisit.

Right after that, the world really changed quite a bit after 90’,91’, and it’s a nice visit back to the way things used to be, (he laughed). The music’s real fun to play. It still sounds real fresh when I play it now, which is surprising to me and yeah, I’m real excited about it.

Raring to go. Looking forward to however long the tour lasts.

I’m not quite sure, but I did the thirty-year anniversary tour for the Operation: Mindcrime and stretched it to 28 countries in 36 months. So, (he chuckled). this might be the same thing.

Geoff Tate By: Lori Smerilson Carson | Photos

During this time of worldwide troubles and turmoil, Singer/Songwriter Geoff Tate is providing the perfect diversion with his Operation: Mindcrime band (namesake from the third studio album of his former band Queensryche, released in 1988), to reflect back on better times, relax and enjoy. South Florida will be able to experience his Empire 30th Anniversary tour on March 18th at the Parker Playhouse in Ft. Lauderdale. Just prior, they will play in Pensacola, March 13 at the Vinyl Music Hall and in Clearwater on March 17th at the Bilheimer Capital Theatre. Following the Parker Playhouse, the tour will continue in Florida in Bonita Springs on March 19th at the Sanjan Theater at SWFL Performing Arts Center and in Miramar Beach on March 20th at The Village Door Music Hall.

Catching up with this legendary, extraordinarily talented musician right before taking the road with this tour, he revealed what this show is all about, how he came to be a musician and a couple of additional ventures that his fans will be happy to know.

22 | www.SFLMusic.com

SFL Music: Looks like you’re starting in Australia then going through the States, then to Europe, Germany and Belgium and so on. What do you look forward to when you tour like that, going to different countries and different states? Anything in particular?

Tate: Well you know Lori, I almost constantly travel. I’m a travel junky, and I was counting it up the other day, right around Christmas time, and I have spent two weeks in my own bed last year, (he laughed).

SFL Music: Wow. That’s awesome!

Tate: Yeah it is. It’s fun. I like it more now than I did when I was younger. Maybe it’s because I’m so used to it. It doesn’t seem daunting to me now as it once did, or maybe it’s you know, since I’m so familiar with most of the places I go. I’m pretty comfortable setting down at any city around the world and being able to find my way around, and I know where I can go to a nice restaurant. I know where the fun is. I know kind of the layout of the city. So, it’s comfortable you know. It’s not frightening, which I think a lot of times people get sort of overwhelmed with traveling. They think it’s frightening because there’s so many unknown questions like, where everything is. How are they going get this? How they’re going to get there. You know, the language issues. I’m pretty comfortable with it now, but I do look forward to going to some new places that I haven’t been before, and I always look forward to having a conversation with my booking agent to see if they’ve booked a new place that I haven’t been before because that’s always a big plus. I keep track of it all, (he laughed).

SFL Music: That must be lot to keep track of. Have you been to Pensacola before? I know you’ve been to Clearwater and Ft. Lauderdale.

Tate: I’ve been to every major city in Florida, multiple times. Every major city in the United States multiple times, (he laughed). Oh, you know what? The only state that I have not played in yet is Hawaii.

Never had the chance to play there. So, it’s on my bucket list.

SFL Music: Is it going to be on this tour or is that a goal for this tour?

Tate: It hasn’t been announced yet. So, that gives me hope.

SFL Music: There you go. You have the same musicians on tour, Guitarist Scott Moughton, Guitarist/Vocalist Kieran Robertson, Bassist Jack Ross, Drummer Josh Watts and Keyboardist Bruno Sa still in the band?

Tate: Yes, yes. More or less, yeah.

SFL Music: You are the main songwriter, but how does it work with other musicians that you play with when you write songs?

Tate: Yeah, it really just depends. There’s no set way of doing it. Sometimes a lyric will come to you. A word, a phrase that sparks a piece of music and before you know it, you have a song. Other times, it’s a guitar riff, or a piano riff or you know, some sort of rhythm that you hear and you start creating on that, and it all builds from there. Sometimes it’s just a conversation you’re having with somebody that can spur you into action, and in this group of people, we haven’t really written anything as a band over the time period we’ve been playing. It’s more about, we’ve been playing live, but that’s been one of my goals. It’s a really accomplished live band. Really great players who actually really enjoy playing shows and they enjoy touring. So, it’s nice to have people out with ya and surrounding you who like to do a live show.

SFL Music: Yeah that is something that the fans can see. Congratulations on being inducted to the Heavy Metal Hall of Fame for 2020. How do you find out about that?

Tate: I think my wife told me.

SFL Music: Oh cool.

Tate: Yeah. She usually tells me everything I should know.

SFL Music: That’s good. That’s part of our job, right?

Performing Live @ Broward Center March 18th

Tate: Right.

SFL Music: So, was there a phone call or email? How did she learn this news?

Tate: Oh yeah, it’s an email. Email usually, then a phone call to nail down the details and all that.

SFL Music: Well, definitely well deserved.

Tate: Looking forward to that. That’s going to be an interesting ride.

Yeah, I go from Finland to Los Angeles and then I do the presentation for it, and then I get on a plane the next day and head to Norway.

SFL Music: Wow. That is a lot of traveling.

Tate: That is.

SFL Music: What inspires you when you write your music?

Tate: Oh everything. Life is very inspirational. There’s all kinds of interesting things happening as you make your way through life. You have contact with other people and sometimes they can be an inspiration to what you write about.

SFL Music: What made you decide to become a musician? Were you taking music lessons? How did this career path come about?

Tate: Well, I was nine years old. I decided at that point that I wanted to play music. I had been taking music lessons, piano lessons and I spent more time at the piano writing my own music then I did practicing the music that was set out for me to learn, (he chuckled). So, I really took to it, and I’ve been a musician for well, almost all of my life. You know, some way or the other.

SFL Music: What bands or type of music inspired you?

Tate: Well, I think as a young musician you’re kind of a big sponge.

You listen to everything, one, to figure out what they’re doing. Two, to expand your musical horizons because there’s all kinds of music out there, not just western music that we hear, but eastern music. Music from different countries with different tonal scales, other rhythm, drumoriented music. There’s music that only happens on woodwind instruments. There’s so much different kinds of music out there and it’s all interesting to delve into and learn about, and as a young musician I was in that play book, learning about everything and picking up instruments and seeing what instruments I could play and ones I felt the most about, and then learning to play in an ensemble, an orchestra, and playing rock music and what that was all about.

I was in a really lucky position in my age to be in kind of the beginning of rock music you know, late 60’s early 70’s was a magic time to get some answers to rock music as we know it. So, my head was just dizzy from all the different music I was listening to at the time. I went from Abba to Zappa in my record collection. I just listened to everything.

Tried everything. It was a wonderful journey. Still to this day, I don’t listen to much of other people’s music as much as my own, what I’m working on specifically, but sometimes, I do go back and delve into some of the old ones, to see how it feels.

SFL Music: Did you play in organized musical groups in school?

Tate: Yep. All through school. I was in school orchestra, jazz band, male chorus. What else? I was active in gospel music with my mother’s church. I took private instruction. Took private voice lessons when I was older. I play keyboards, saxophone.

SFL Music: What would you advise to have the longevity that you have? What would you credit to be able to sustain the successful career that you have?

Tate: Well, first I think you have to like what you do. A lot of times people get into music because they want to be famous. Right? And that’s sort of a, I don’t know, kind of a shallow sort of an endeavor I would think because fame comes and goes. What really gives you satisfaction I think, is being able to create things, music being one of them.

Being able to take your emotions and your thoughts and your ideas, translate them into music. Glorious pastime, very honorable profession I believe. So, the advice I would give them is follow your heart. What do you want to do as an artist? Sort of using that angle rather than the angle of trying to get rich or trying to get famous.

24 | www.SFLMusic.com

SFL Music: That’s good advice. You do a lot with your fans. I saw on your website fans can go to Germany for Harvest Fest? How does that come about?

Tate: Well, one of my side interests is wine making and I’m involved with a winery in Germany. It belongs to relatives of my wife and they’ve been making wine for generations, and we decided to make a wine together called Insania. We made a red wine and a white wine, and every year in October we have a harvest where we harvest the grapes and we press the wine, crush it, get it ready for bottling, and so we have a harvest festival which is basically a big party where we eat a lot, drink a lot, play music, (he laughed.)

So, we have this every year in October, and years ago we decided that we would just invite our fans and people that wanted to go to the festival, and it’s become sort of an annual thing, and we had formed a travel company called Back Stage Pass Travel and we do tours around the area where the winery is. It’s a wonderful place to see. We do like a week of five-day tours in those areas in conjunction with a big party and the winery. So, it’s a real fun, kind of an event, and keeps getting bigger and bigger. It’s spilling out into Greece now, so I don’t know what’s going to happen in the future, but right now it’s growing and kind of a cool thing to be part of. Then because of the success of that, we expanded Back Stage Pass travel where we offer just people to come on tour with us. We did one in Italy over the holiday that was really fun. We had one in Ireland that’s coming up. We did one last year, and we have one In Scotland that’s coming up in May as well. So yeah, it’s going to be fun, hanging out with everybody and tell stories and play music. It’s a good time.

SFL Music: Can your wine Insania be found in stores or how can people purchase it?

Tate: Yeah, you can get it at certain wine shops and you can get it at Whole Foods and you can also by it online too.

SFL Music: This just came about because of your interest in it?

Tate: Well it’s something I just sort of fell into because I was interested in wine making, and sort of leaning in that direction, and like most things, the more you lean, you find yourself involved.

SFL Music: Anything else fans can look forward to besides the tour with the two albums (Empire released in 1990 and Rage for Order released in 1986), a nice lengthy show?

Tate: It’s two albums back to back.

SFL Music: Any new videos Tate: Well, there’s videos showing up all the time on u-tube and are on the Backstage Pass Travel site and Geoff Tate Facebook site, and also the Operation: Mindcrime Facebook site. There are videos all the time that are out there. So, I’d say, check out those websites for more info.

SFL Music: Was there anything else you want fans to know about coming to their town in Florida?

Tate: Yeah. I like going to Florida. I just don’t go there enough. I think this might be the first time in maybe four or five years that I’ve been to Florida.

SFL readers definitely take advantage of this wonderful, time traveling show to rock your world, in or near your hometown, throughout our sunshine state!

John Lodge

It was only a few months ago, this past summer, that Bassist/ Vocalist/Songwriter John Lodge was touring with YES across the country. Now, not slowing down, this Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee with the Moody Blues band, is bringing his award-winning (including an Ivor Novello Award) extraordinary talent with his own show to south Florida, starting with the Rock and Romance Cruise leaving from Miami on February 15-22. Then upon his return, he will play at the Dania Beach Casino on February 22nd. He will continue to the Lyric Theater in Stuart, February 23rd, then the Key West Theater on February 25, the SWFL Event Center in Bonita Springs, February 27th wrapping up his Florida tour at the Savannah Center in The Villages on February 28th.

Lodge’s latest album B Yond – The Very Best Of has just been released in the US as well as CD version for fans to add to their collection. Having had the opportunity to catch up with him in the midst of his busy schedule, he revealed some details about his new show, The new LP and his life experiences in music.

SFL Music: Tell me about this new tour?

John Lodge: I’m doing some of the classic Moody Blues songs of mine “Isn’t Life Strange,” “I’m Just A Singer (In A Rock and Roll Band),” “Ride My See-Saw,” but I’m also doing a song for Ray Thomas. You know, Ray Thomas and I have been friends since I 26 | www.SFLMusic.com

was fourteen. I play “Legend of a Mind” and the illusion of “Legend of a Mind” for Ray as a tribute to him, because the Moody Blues have played that song for like 15 years and they’re never going to play it again. I’m really excited to be doing that. So, it’s sort of almost a mini Moody Blues concert I’m doing.

SFL Music: What influenced you to go into music?

Lodge: I suppose music must have been entering my mind as I was growing up. I can’t remember when, but it really was the invent of rock and roll when I was like 12,13. These Iconic figures come in from America where rock and roll people like Eddie Cochran, and Gene Vincent, Little Richard, Fats Domino, Jerry Lee Lewis, and I just got totally besotted with the energy really of that music. The school I went to, there used to be a café, and at lunch time I’d go into that café and there was a juke box. Rock and roll juke box, it was called, and I used to just put a coin in the slot and listen to these records playing, and I realized what was really interesting to me wasn’t just the song. It was what was making the songs work, and I realized it was the piano.

The moving parts of music, and so I got a six-string guitar. There was no bassist in England at the time. A six-string guitar, and I was learning all these bluesy rhythms from these records. I was sort of playing along. I realized for me that was the imagery and that was the emotion that drove rock and roll. Then I started to think the sound they’re playing on these records isn’t the guitar. It’s something else. One day I saw The Girl Can’t Help It, and there’s a band on there called the Treniers. There was a guy in the back in the Treniers playing, what looked like a Buddy Holly guitar, but

it wasn’t. It was actually a Fender Stratocaster Bass. That was it. I realized that I got to get one of those basses. That’s what I really wanted to do.

Yond – The Very Best Of (with Keyboardist Alan Hewitt, Guitarist Duffy King, Drummer Billy Ashbaugh, and Cellist Jason Charboneau)?

SFL Music: Did you teach yourself or did you have formal music lesson?

Lodge: Yeah, I approached it. The exact album. I’ve got some deep cuts. I’ve got my original Fender Precision Bass which I recorded the songs with. It’s all very exciting.

Lodge: I taught myself completely. There was no one really in England that could really teach you rock and roll. Rock and roll came from America. It was from the heartland of America really, and so there was no one in England who could teach you. I was in my bedroom with my Fender Precision Bass trying to work everything out and find out how it worked. I think that’s been really good for me because, trying to find out how the bass worked has helped me become a songwriter, because it opened many doors of different ways of writing songs. So, I explored the bass and finally found John Lodge, (he chuckled).

SFL Music: What would you say is the secret for your longevity?

Lodge: I have no idea, (He laughed). I have kept faith with my music and I think the audience understand that and realize that.

I’m not going to do something that I don’t believe in, and I think my audience realizes that, and that’s what they can believe in themselves. That no, I’m not going to rip them off with something I don’t believe in. You know, if you can appeal to people’s emotions with a song, something emotionally happens to them and I don’t mean in the sad way. I’m talking in a happy way as well. Rock and roll way, whatever way. If every time they hear that song something happens for them, I think a songwriter has made the difference.

SFL Music: Is that how you approached your new album B

SFL Music: From what I understand the album has some remixes, three new recordings?

Lodge: Yeah. The movie came out last year called Private Lives and they used a song of mine from Natural Avenue album which I recorded in the 70’s called “Say You Love Me” and I thought, I’m going to revisit that album, and just like my songwriting technique, I thought, what would happen if I recorded those songs today? So, I found the original 24 tracks, and from the technical term, I had them baked and then digitized, and then went into the studio and remixed them. So, they were songs I had written and recorded in 2019. So “Say You Love Me” and “Summer Breeze, Summer Song” released off the album. I put them on the album. There’s a song of mine from Days of Future Passed (“Nights in White Satin” and “Tuesday Afternoon”) which was on side two called “(Evening} Time to Get Away” and it was sort of buried on side two. I’ve been playing them onstage over the last year and the audience seem to really enjoy it. So, I thought, I’ve got to record that again. So, new version of that and then of course “Street Café.” I recorded that and then I recorded a new version of “Legend of A Mind” as a tribute to Ray on the album. So yeah, I’m really excited about the album. That’s why it’s called B Yond (– The Very Best Of). It means I’m taking something and sort of take it as far as I’m concerned, into the future. - By Lori Smerilson Carson | Photo Sean McCloskey

blues standards in a small lounge in Sunny Isles Beach, Florida with the accompaniment of only a piano player. Since then she has performed throughout Florida, New Orleans, Vietnam, Thailand, China, South Korea, Curacao, Belgium and The Netherlands so far.

Kat’s own musical style is a blend of the blues with hip hop, pop, rock,gospel and even country music. “It’s all related anyway”, she exclaims. She is inspired by young artists such as Janelle Monae, Karreim Riggins, SyncOpera and ZZ Ward and Andra Day who share in her passion to revive music from the vinyl days. “It’s about the raw emotion in every note”, Kat says. “ If I can move someone to feel what I feel when I sing a song, then it’s all worth it”. With her own band, Blues Revival, she travels the world with the intent to “wake up the blues one song at a time”!

With her first two works, an EP called “Seoul Music” and an original album called “Lily Rose” Kat penned each song with subtle hints of her love of the blues. Her latest album, aptly named after her band “Blues Revival” is a loud and proud declaration of that love! “Blues Revival” is a clever mashup of gospel-blues, blues-rock, funky blues, contemporary and traditional blues, with BLUES being the operative word! With this and albums to come, Kat Riggins’s focus is to be a part of this musical revolution that aims to awaken the masses and introduce them to the sincerity behind blues music.

Kat Riggins Signs with Gulf Coast Records Kat Riggins brings her Blues Revival tent to Gulf Coast Records. Happy to join the team with Guy Hale and Mike Zito in their hurricane of a journey with the new label. Mike Zito will be at the helm as producer in an undisclosed Memphis studio this week.

Watch for Kat Riggins next week sitting in with several bands on Beale Street during IBC week. Also Kat will perform at The Big Blues Bender in Las Vegas this September with the Gulf Coast Showcase and several other performances.

Kat Riggins was born Katriva Riggins in Miami, Florida on February 7, 1980. She grew up in a household where there was always background music. Because of the wide range of genres in her parents collection, Kat developed a love for all types of music from gospel and soul to country and rock and everything in between. “I can remember being in the car with my mom and sister singing along to Tracy Chapman one minute and Chuck Berry the next”, says Kat. However, even then, she was drawn to the smokey gritty sounds of artists like Bessie Smith,Sam Cooke, Nina Simone, Tina Turner, Denise LaSalle, Etta James, Ray Charles, Koko Taylor,Janis Joplin and the list goes on. She grew up singing in local programs, church events, and family gatherings with her sister and cousins. At age 23 Kat landed a gig singing jazz and 28 | www.SFLMusic.com

“I thank God that my passion is my purpose... That is to help preserve this endangered species called The Blues.” - Kat Riggins

ANNUAL CELEBRATION Tables & Tickets Available

Celebration includes a cocktail reception, pre-show dinner, preferred performance tickets and post-show party. Proceeds benefit the education and enrichment programs of the Broward Center for the Performing Arts.

To purchase the full celebration package, call 954.468.3284 or email Foundation@browardcenter.org.

SHOW-ONLY TICKETS START AT $49.50

TICKETS at BrowardCenter.org Ticketmaster 954.462.0222 • Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office • Group Sales 954.660.6307 The Broward Center 2019-2020 season are presented by the Broward Performing Arts Foundation THE BROWARD PERFORMING ARTS FOUNDATION, INC., REGISTRATION NUMBER SC-00882, MEETS ALL REQUIREMENTS SPECIFIED BY THE FLORIDA SOLICITATION OF CONTRIBUTIONS ACT. A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE WITHIN THE STATE 1-800-435-7352 OR CONTACTING WWW.FLORIDACONSUMERHELP.COM. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE. 100% OF YOUR CONTRIBUTION IS RECEIVED BY THE FOUNDATION.

30 | www.SFLMusic.com

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee John Fogerty comes to the Au-Rene Theater at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts on Saturday, February 22 for the Broward Performing Arts Foundation’s 2020 Annual Celebration to support the education and enrichment programs at the Broward Center. The evening’s festivities begin at 5 p.m. with a cocktail reception, followed by dinner, the show at 8 p.m. and a post-show party at 10 p.m.

As lead singer and lead guitarist of Creedence Clearwater Revival, Fogerty’s prolific songwriting helped pen some of the most memorable songs in rock and roll, including “Proud Mary,” “Bad Moon Rising” and “Fortunate Son.” His solo career skyrocketed in the 1980s with his chart-topping single “Centerfield.” Inducted into both the Baseball Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame, he also wrote the hits “Change in the Weather” and “Rock and Roll Girls,” among others.

“John Fogerty is a true rock icon and we are delighted that he’ll take the stage this year at the Annual Celebration,” said Kelley Shanley, president and CEO of the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. “It’s always one of the most memorable nights of the season. Not only will our guests have a fabulous evening, but students in our community will also benefit, as the funds raised will support the education and enrichment programs here at the Broward Center.”

As of December 18, 2019, the Annual Celebration Gold Sponsors included AutoNation: The Haller Foundation; Michelle Howland, The Howland Group—Compass: Sean Donovan and Lori Macpherson; Dr. Lee and Brigitte Mandel, South Florida Sinus and Allergy Center; Mary and Dean Middleton; Marie Morris; and Christine and Richard Welch. Silver Sponsors included BBX Capital, Ann M. Burris, Martin and Terri Cole, Goldman Sachs, The Miniaci Family, Northern Trust, Charlie and Laura Palmer, PNC, Salah Foundation, Stiles, Thermal Concepts, Douglas and

Linda Von Allmen, Gary and Deborah Wendt and Mark and Linda Wilford.

Tickets to the Woodstock/Hippie Chic-themed Annual Celebration start at $1,500 and include a cocktail reception at the Huizenga Pavilion and Wendt Terraces; followed by a pre-show dinner in the Amaturo Theater; preferred seating at the John Fogerty performance in the Au-Rene Theater; and the after-party at the Huizenga Pavilion and Wendt Terraces. To purchase this full package, visit BrowardCenter.org/events/detail/john-fogerty. For more information about tickets and sponsorship opportunities, contact 954.468.3284 or email Foundation@BrowardCenter.org.

Tickets for the performance only are $49.50 – $225 with $169.50 JetBlue Flight Deck on the Club Level tickets. Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Broward Center, Parker Playhouse and affiliated venues. Buy tickets online at BrowardCenter.org or Ticketmaster.com; by phone at 954.462.0222 or at the Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office. Know who you are buying from when you purchase tickets.

For more than 25 years, the Broward Performing Arts Foundation has been instrumental in providing support for the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. The Foundation was established in 1985 to deliver the required private funding to build the Center and create an endowment to sustain its operations. Over the years, the Foundation has successfully raised funds to support the Broward Center’s innovative and diverse programming, artsin-education initiatives, community engagement activities and capital projects. The Foundation recently completed a $30 million capital campaign to renovate and restore the iconic Parker Playhouse. Prior to this, it raised $60 million to complete the Encore! capital campaign to renovate, renew and revitalize the Broward Center.

32 | www.SFLMusic.com

Kiss Country 99.9 Chili Cookoff Photos: Jay Skolnick

Leo Kotke | Broward Center Photo: Jay Skolnick

Hot Tuna | Parker Playhouse Photo: Jay Skolnick

34 | www.SFLMusic.com

Albert Castiglia | The Funky Biscuit Photo: Jay Skolnick

36 | www.SFLMusic.com

MARCH 16 I Au-Rene Theater A note from Paul: Back by popular demand! The Anka Sings Sinatra tour will honor a great artist who has influenced me more than anyone else throughout my career, Frank Sinatra. It will also feature the hits that have spanned my career on this 61st anniversary year. It will be a night filled with his songs, my songs, my way!

TICKETS at BrowardCenter.org • Ticketmaster | 954.462.0222 Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office • Group Sales 954.660.6307 The Broward Center 2019-2020 season is presented by the Broward Performing Arts Foundation.

Follow us:

BrowardCenter

By Lori Smerilson Carson | Photos Casey Flanigan parties with the band and we would all play at the same time. We would all sit in with the band. So, it was called Let Us Play? It was a joke that stuck.

SFL Music: That worked well for you guys.

Deitch: I guess so, (he laughed).

SFL Music: Tell me about the new album (Elevate, Grammy nominated for Best Contemporary Instrumental Album).

A key ingredient in salad is lettuce. Lettuce however, is also the name of a band with Grammy Nominated musicians who are taking their Grammy Nominated sixth studio album (along with their previous songs) on tour and are key players in the GroundUP Music Festival taking place in Miami on February 16th.

Catching up with Drummer/Percussionist Adam Deitch at the beginning of this US and European tour, he revealed some details of how he and Guitarist Adam “Shmeeans” Smirnoff, Keyboardist/ Vocalist Nigel Hall, Bassist Erick “Jesus” Coomes, Saxophonist Ryan Zoidis, and Trumpet Player/Horns Eric “Benny” Bloom bring their extraordinary talents together to create their music, exuberate their love of music for their fans, and how they came up with their band name.

SFL Music: Where did you guys get the band name Lettuce?

I love it!

Adam Deitch: We didn’t have our owns gigs. We couldn’t find out how to book a show so, we were just going to other people’s dorm 38 | www.SFLMusic.com

Deitch: Yeah, we released Elevate. Elevate’s our most recent.

We’re super excited it got nominated for a Grammy. It’s a huge honor to get that, and we feel really happy about releasing more music. We’ve been writing and creating so much music that we just have like three or four albums of material right now that we just can’t wait to get out in addition to Elevate.

SFL Music: What can fans look forward to with the live show?

Are you playing any of those new songs?

Deitch: We tend to play songs from Elevate, stuff from our back catalogue, and we also play some new songs that we’re working out so by the time we get to the studio, everything is feeling good.

SFL Music: Is there anything new or different with this show?

I know you’re playing in Miami at the GroundUP Festival and in Punta Gorda at Funk Fest Punta Gorda February 14-15, and you have the whole US/European tour?

Deitch: We’re firing on all cylinders right now. We’re just feeling really good and the songs are flowing, and there’s a lot of improvisation in the middle of the songs, and it’s just getting funkier and funkier, and we love it!

ad - kelsey

SFL Music: Yeah, the remake of “Everybody Wants To Rule The World” (originally by Tears For Fears) was amazing. How did that come about?

Deitch: Thank you. We were hanging out with Nigel our singer, and I was in a room with him. We just started messing around with that song and trying to put a little more of a hip-hop touch on it as far as the beat, and we switched it up and we started playing it live, and it just became something that always made the crowd really excited to hear. Made us excited, and excited to put on the record.

to, and that’s where we met and we started jamming right then.

Then we all came back to college two years later and started doing some more playing, and more writing, and eventually getting some gigs.

SFL Music: This was where?

Deitch: This was in Boston.

SFL Music: You all are from the northeast?

SFL Music: What would you say are your influences? What type of music?

Deitch: We all went to college in the northeast. We’re from all over the country.

Deitch: I would say for Lettuce, we’re very influenced by James Brown, Bootsy Collins, P(Parliament)-Funkadelic, Herbie Hancock and Tower of Power. Then a lot of hip-hop influences from J Dilla, Gang Starr, sort of 90’s, 90’s golden era hip-hop. So, we try to combine the sound of that with soft music.

SFL Music: Do you think that being from various parts of the country influences Lettuce as a whole?

SFL Music: Were you raised in music? What made you decide to a professional drummer, percussionist?

Deitch: Well, I was lucky enough to be born into a musical family.

Parents have played a whole bunch of instruments and drums as well. They both are accomplished drummers. So, I was kind of born into music which helps. Always felt natural to do it.

SFL Music: When did you know that this was what you definitely wanted to do? Did you just know this all along?

Deitch: You know, I knew from five years old that its’ something I really enjoyed and never was quite sure how to make a living out of it, but it just seemed to happen pretty organically and very thankful to my friends in Lettuce for making that a reality.

SFL Music: You mentioned you guys were in college. Is that how you met?

Deitch: We went to the summer program prior to college when we were sixteen years old, and it was at the same school we all went

Deitch: Yeah, definitely. Our bass player‘s from Los Angeles. I’m from New York. Our guitar player’s also from New York, and our singer is from Washington DC. So, we all combine our local influences and local heroes, and then brought that into the band. So yes, has a sort of a nationwide sound. We have a bunch of different influences in the band.

SFL Music: Is everybody professionally trained?

Deitch: Yeah. Everybody is accomplished musicians that have been playing since they are children, and most of us come from musical families.

SFL Music: Do you feel that your career was an expectation or did your parents just guide you? Some professional families kind of expect their children to take a similar path.

Deitch: We were all very blessed to be in families that were very supportive of our musical endeavors. None of us found other jobs, (He chuckled).

SFL Music: That’s cool. Who would you say are your drum heroes? Do you have any?

Deitch: Yes. Bernard Purdie who played with Aretha Franklin and Clyde Stubblefield who was James Brown’s drummer. Dennis Chambers who was the drummer with P-Funk in the early 80’s. So those were some of my top people and Zigaboo Modeliste from the Meters. The great band, the Meters. He’s an incredible, incredible drummer and now friend.

SFL Music: Why those particular drummers?

Deitch: They are the inventors of the style that we play. They literally started playing funk music and funky beats on the drums before anyone else, and they just created a phenomenon. I’m just happy to be a part of and hopefully add to one day.

40 | www.SFLMusic.com

SFL Music: What would you advise up and coming new drummers? New Musicians?

Deitch: Play the music you love and don’t feel like you have to conform to a certain style that society wants you to be in or you know, play the sound that you love, and if it applies to you, people will love it. And practice and study the history, (he chuckled).

SFL Music: Is that what you feel got you where you are today? What would you attribute to your success?

Deitch: Yes. A lot of practicing and being like prepared musically, but also try to be the person that’s easy to work with, and be professional at all times. I think that that’s the key for you know, longevity in this game.

SFL Music: How so in particular? How you conduct yourself and what you put out?

Deitch: Yeah, just like how you do business with people and how you interact with people. You know, I’m a very outgoing person. I like to meet and befriend people, and it kind of makes people want to work with you more as opposed to being a kind of, hard to work with, or cranky, or money hungry, or something like that. So, it’s good to just be a good person, and I think that always works out in the end no matter what you do in your life.

SFL Music: How great is this Grammy Award nomination?

You were nominated for one too, correct?

Deitch: Yeah. I’ve been nominated before when I was with John Scofield. He’s a great guitar player. I was in his band for three years and it was his first nomination which is pretty cool because he’s been around since the 60’s. So, yeah that was pretty cool, but then we didn’t win, but it was still a great experience going to the Grammy’s and being a part of the whole thing, and so this is even better because it’s all music that we all wrote together, you know we all tour together so, it’s just really a good feel.

SFL Music: What was the inspiration for the album, Elevate?

Was there anything in particular?

Deitch: I would just say the inspiration is just watching how the band is growing, and more and more people are hearing about us and discovering us by the day, and all that energy, and our show is getting bigger and bigger, and we’re starting to see a lot of people traveling from show to show. We play different sets every night so, if you can go from city to city, you’re going to see a different set every night which keeps people traveling. So, all that energy happening and how well the band is getting along, and how good the shows are. All that goes into the inspiration for writing.

SFL Music: So, you write off of your environment and personal experiences?

Deitch: Yeah, Yeah. It’s always the environment and the excitement of seeing how the band is growing is a very great feeling that inspires us to continue writing music, recording it, putting it out.

SFL Music: What is the goal? Is there a goal?

Deitch: Yeah there’s a goal. The goal is to you know, music is benefitted for the soul and we’re the providers for people in need, that need music that it is coming from the heart, and obviously, we just want to continue to grow organically, and friends tell friends, and people tell people. Our shows are turning into almost like an

all ages thing. People are bringing their kids. There’s fans up to 60, 70 years old. There’s kids in their twenties and they come see us. So, it’s becoming across the board sort of an experience for people musically, and that makes us feel good.

SFL Music: Was there anything else that you wanted fans to know about the upcoming show in Miami?

Deitch: We’re playing the GroundUp Festival. We’re in Miami right now. I don’t know if you knew that?

SFL Music: No. I didn’t know that.

Deitch: Yeah. We had a choice after we just did Jam Cruise which is a huge cruise with like 30 bands and a couple thousand fans on a boat. It was great! It was so fun. It was just like, get to see all our favorite bands, hang out with them, and be on a boat in the middle of the ocean. It was a great experience. So, we got off the boat and we had a choice to either fly back to Colorado or you know, our bass player, fly back to LA, or stay in Miami, and we decided to stay in Miami for two days. Enjoy it. It’s beautiful.

Yeah, we love the community here, the people and we’re very excited to play at GroundUp Festival which is thrown by our friends from Snarky Puppy who are also a very funky band, and sort of our contemporaries. It’s a very music-oriented festival that a lot of people are going to be you know, teaching music by day, and lots of clinics and instructional things, and at night there’s all concerts.

So, it’s going to be a really great festival.

SFL Music: Was there anything else you wanted to add for SFL readers?

Deitch: Just, Lettuce loves Miami! We just feel so comfortable here. Me and the bass player are like, why don’t we live here? (he laughed). It’s one of the most gorgeous places on the earth. Great people. Great food and obviously the ocean. So, anytime we come back here, we play even better and we always take it to the limit here. It’s such an amazing place to be. We’re looking forward to coming back.

recognizable signature. These are professional works shown at respectable galleries, and Hart now has a prestigious museum exhibition in the works. As the curator for this upcoming survey of paintings at the Coral Springs Museum of Art, I had the pleasure of interviewing Mickey in his secluded wine country home about an hour north of San Francisco.

It’s a short walk to his spacious art studio through his marvelous gardens. Here an assistant is setting up blank canvases for the maestro to cover with a magical mystery tour of color combinations that have a clear connection to the early days of the Grateful Dead and the ‘60s style of pulsating psychedelic tie-dye visual celebration.

Mickey Hart

There is a long and colorful history of rockers who were studio artists long before becoming recording artists. Bob Dylan began painting seriously well after his claim to musical fame and fortune, and ten years ago joined the mighty Gagosian Gallery in Manhattan. The Who’s Pete Townshend, faced with the decision to attend either music school or art school, ultimately chose to study graphic design. Ronnie Wood, John Mellencamp, Joni Mitchell and Jimi Hendrix all share a command of both painting and music.

Actors Martin Mull and musician David Byrne started as artists, but each had a serious band while at the Rhode Island School of Design. In South Florida, Jason Newsted (former bassist of Metallica) has shown streetwise paintings at Art Miami, while Rick Allen and Paul Stanley exhibit regularly with Wentworth Gallery.

Mickey Hart, drummer for the Grateful Dead and one of the most legendary figures in rock and roll history, now continues on his own with sold out stadium concerts featuring amazing rhythmical percussion compositions. These shows are mesmerizing and unforgettable and often require hundreds of drums and cymbals on stage with every imaginable shape and origin.

Lesser known perhaps are the paintings Hart produces in his Northern California home and art studio, where he creates exhilarating arrangements of swirling layers of mixed colors that often are applied directly to the round skins of a drumhead, creating a visual marriage with a circular surface made for drumming, as opposed to a square canvas. Coincidentally, renowned California artist Ed Ruscha reportedly created a series of works on drumheads. They say “practice makes perfect” in the music industry and that holds in the visual arts as well. Hart has been steadily experimenting in his art studio for years in order to perfect a remarkable technique of paint application to various surfaces (including canvas), utilizing abstract gestural color fields of meandering imaginative floating shapes that have developed a 42 | www.SFLMusic.com

The experience of visiting a serious painter who is also one of the legendary drummers of all time is not something an art critic like myself will ever forget. The intimate knowledge gained from examining wonderous works of art firsthand, fresh and engaging and inventive, was a valuable experience for me as a curator and artist who also was a drummer in art school and a painter as well. It’s not surprising that many of America’s great artists have multiple interests in all directions, and music and art seem to go hand in hand for many of them. The survey exhibition coming to South Florida (drumroll) will no doubt be a completely memorable experience, but I recommend you see the show and decide on your own. The museum exhibition opens to the public on Saturday, March 21, 2020, with a private artist reception later.

Mickey Hart is represented by Wentworth Gallery, who shows his work regularly.

https://www.wentworthgallery.com/ https://coralspringsmuseum.org/ - Bruce Helander is an artist who writes on art. He is a member of the Florida Artists Hall of Fame and a former White House Fellow of the National Endowment for the Arts. His work is in over fifty museum collections, including the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum.

The International Beatles On The Beach Festival™ - Thursday – March 26 to Sunday – March 29, 2020. Four Fab Days of Sun, Fun, Love and Music in Beautiful Delray Beach, Florida, with over 20 venues and the entire Village by The Sea joining in, dressing up, and celebrating the iconic music of The Beatles. This year’s festival is dedicated in memory to John Lennon, whose music is still ALIVE today, 40 years after his passing! This iconic legend will be memorialized as thousands Sing-A-Long to All The Beatles classics!

Info and Tickets http://beatlesonthebeach.com Delray Beach, FL/ The second annual International Beatles On The Beach Festival, a four-day city-wide ‘Experience’ will commence Thursday – March 26 to Sunday March 29, 2020.

Beautiful Delray Beach, FL will host a multitude of artists, headline performers and musicians during the four-day FAB Fest. The roster includes the ever-popular Micky Dolenz of The Monkees! With Over 75 million records sold by The Monkees, he will be performing all The Monkees hits and The Best of The Beatles! A Stellar performance will make for a perfect evening under the stars. Terrifically impressive, Imagine this Stunning Re-Creation of the Iconic music of The Monkees and The Beatles!

Saturday night, March 28, McCartney Mania Accompanied by The Academy Orchestra, conducted by Maestro Sir Thomas Servinsky, promises to have a spectacular multi-media extravaganza performing selections from Sgt. Pepper, Abbey Road, and The White Album. Hailed as monumental performance, 44 | www.SFLMusic.com

McCartney Mania was a SELL OUT in 2019! A CAN’T MISS!!

Guest appearance by Patti Russo, who has for decades performed alongside some of the world’s finest Artists including QUEEN, ROGER DALTREY, JEFF BECK, and CHER; But her most recognizable role was that of the Powerhouse Female Vocalist for the legendary artist MEAT LOAF. Historical speaking engagements by Tony Bramwell, renowned CEO of Apple Records and director/producer known for Lady Madonna (1968), and The Beatles Strawberry Fields Forever. Famously quoted by Paul McCartney back in 2004 as “being better to ask it [information on The Beatles]” than McCartney himself. Tony Bramwell grew up in Liverpool with George Harrison, Paul McCartney, and John Lennon.

A boatload of live performances by Beatle Bands from around the world will rock you for four FAB Days. https://beatlesonthebeach.com/lineup-2020/ A highlight of the Fest is BeatleCon, a major event, where you get to dress in costume as your favorite Beatle, Rockstar, Superhero, Harry Potter character, Blue Meanie, Pirate, Game Of Thrones, or favorite 60’s & 70’s hippie! Dress up, participate and have FUN!!

FAB Prizes Awarded for best costumes!

Celebrity Symposium with Micky Dolenz of The Monkees, Beatles Producer & Apple Records CEO Tony Bramwell and others reminiscing about their wild Beatles stories.

Beatles Bar Crawl involving participating restaurant/bars with specialty Beatles drinks such as Me and My Monkey Margarita & Strawberry Fields Forever Frozen Daiquiri!

Magical Mystery Mini-Golf, Beatles Yoga, Beatles and Classic Rock Art Show, Abbey Road Replica and Car Show, I Saw/ Met The Beatles: A meeting and discussion with people who have met a member of the FAB Four or seen The Beatles live!

GREAT stories shared!

NEW this year, a Beatles Art Exhibition featuring original artwork by members of The Beatles Paul McCartney + Ringo Starr; a first time ever, displayed in one room at The Cornell Art Museum. Joining the exhibition will be Ron Campbell, animator, director and producer best known for his work on the 1960’s Beatles television series, as well as the animated feature film, Yellow Submarine.

The four-day, interactive calendar of events is produced with an abundance of ‘Sun, Fun, Love & Music’, kicking off Thursday as the city hosts bands from around the world in its thriving restaurant/pub circuit, paying tribute to The Beatles! Local merchants are rolling out the red carpet with countless cool incentives that include travel and discounted accommodations at the centrally located host hotel; Hyatt Place Delray Beach. https://beatlesonthebeach.com/hotels-accommodations/ Ticket holders receive discounts and FREE Food and drink

all Across The Universe. The Delray Universe of course, at participating restaurants, bars & merchants!

For ticket holders the Beatles Bar Crawl with a Scavenger Hunt will serve specialty signature cocktails such as Me and My Monkey Margaritas, Strawberry Fields Forever Frozen Daiquiris. Venues such as Bull Bar, Third & Third, Tin Roof, Boston’s on The Beach, Silver Ball Museum, Blue Anchor and Sand Bar will feature a compliment tasting menu of munchies, Beatle drinks, prizes and swag galore to round out the festivities. The all-inclusive, day or weekend passes start at $29.50 per day or an affordable full event, 2-day VIP Credential for $152.50. The front row Ultimate Beatles VIP experience, The Ultra Golden VIP ticket includes a Collectible FAB beach bag, festival t-shirt and a signed copy of the award-winning timetravel novel Saint John Lennon, authored by producer, Daniel Hartwell. https://www.SaintJohnLennon.com https://www.ticketmaster.com/the-international-beatles-onthe-beach-festival-tickets/artist/2580053 Over 10, 000 celebrants were attracted to 2019’s event; 2020 also promises a British Invasion with a Woodstock vibe. The line-up is chock-a-block with Beatles tribute bands arriving from ports of call that boast Japan, Argentina, Brazil, Sweden and of course USA FAB favorites! Visit the website frequently for additions to the all-star line-up and new sponsorship partners. https://beatlesonthebeach.com/lineup-2020/

Jim Messina

By Tom Craig | Photos Tom Craig and George Berkis

SFL Music: Hey, Jim. This is Tom Craig with SFL Music Magazine down in South Florida. How are you today?

with it.

Messina: Oh, it’s my pleasure. Thank you.

Messina: Yeah. I’m doing all that I can do basically and personally and saving the stuff for getting some floor joists and some things like that to require a better skillset than I have. Pretty much I can handle taking doors off and taking jams out and painting and putting floors in but when it comes to the heavier stuff, I’m 72 now and I want to save my back for another 40 years if I can.

SFL Music: I wanted to ask you a few questions. Since your last release In The Groove in 2016 what you been up to?

SFL Music: Absolutely. How big of a space are you looking at making?

Jim Messina: Well, we’ve been touring that particular album, which sort of designed as I got out again people wanted to hear some of the old tunes and new tunes and so I decided to put that album together, which was really a chronology of my musical groups that I was in from the Springfield and Poco and Loggins & Messina to my work.

Messina: Well, about 2500 square feet and that also would include my shop and storage for off-road gear or on-road gear.

Since we live in Tennessee the weather is very different so you can go from being very cold to extremely hot. Fortunately, we found a place where my studio is in the basement.

Jim Messina: I’m doing good. How are you, sir?

SFL Music: Very good. Thank you so much for taking the time to speak with me today. I greatly appreciate it.

The album actually has been really great in the sense that when we do our show people really, really enjoy it and want what is that music. It’s on that album. They’re able to go out and get it right away. Mainly touring and I moved from California to Tennessee in the last year, which has been quite a project. I have my studio out in California so I’m now in the process of rebuilding it here.

That’s a bit of a job.

SFL Music: I bet it is. I know I’ve read where you do woodwork and metalwork so I imagine you’re pretty hands-on 46 | www.SFLMusic.com

SFL Music: Oh, great.

Messina: It stays literally 55 degrees all year round, whatever the Earth is. It’s about 12 feet into the Earth. All I have to do is keep a dehumidifier going and it keeps it nice. I’ve got a shop down here, I’m building a shop here where the utility room is, where all the power comes in. It’s a good size room that’s a fairly good sized work bench and a chop saw and a little table saw down there so anything I need to do in the studio I can do it right here on site.

SFL Music: Wow. That’s awesome. Awesome. I know you’re

kicking off your 2020 tour with five dates down here in Florida. How did that come about?

Messina: Yeah. Well, I have an agency and recently I went to a new agency, APA, who has offices here in Nashville as well as around the world. We have a wonderful agent now who’s very familiar with my music. I was here once before, I don’t know, maybe five, six, seven years ago.

When I moved back to town a different person became head of the agency and he said, “Boy, if you ever decide you want to come back let me know.” I said, “You know, I’m at a point where I’m kind of playing the same places each year. How about we make a change now?” He’s got me back down in the Florida market. I have a lot of fans there I didn’t realize but I guess Loggins and Messina ... We did tour there a lot. We had a big following.

SFL Music: You did.

Messina: It’s nice to get back into that area. I’ve always loved Florida. We’re very excited.

SFL Music: Yeah. I photographed you here about three years ago. You played the Broward Center. I see this time you’ve got five dates. Our magazine pretty much will cover three of those with our coverage.

Messina: Oh, wonderful.

SFL Music: One of the venues you’re playing is a place called the Funky Biscuit on February 23rd and I think about three years ago Rusty Young played there. I was wondering how that one got put onto your schedule? Do you know anything about the venue?

Messina: I don’t. I’ve never played there before but I’ve heard about it and I certainly have been reading a little bit about it since we’ve accepted the date. What is it like?

SFL Music: It’s a very cool little venue. It’s in Boca Raton.

They’ve had a lot of great musicians come through there.

I think you and your guys will really be pleased with it. It’s a great room. It’s small but it’s a great room. Yeah. I think you’ll really like that but as far as Loggins and Messina you guys do have a big fan base. I was born and raised down here and I saw you guys many years ago at the Miami Jai Alai.

Messina: Was that an outdoor thing?

SFL Music: No, it’s a sports venue. Jai Alai is a sport ...

Messina: Oh, yes. I remember that now. I remember because I didn’t know what Jai Alai was. You kind of have a scoop on your hand, right?

SFL Music: Correct. Yeah. Like a wicker ... They call it a cesta. You throw a ball against a wall and people bet on the different players. That was one of the venues you guys played back I think maybe ‘75 or ‘76. I was looking through your tour history and I could have sworn I saw you guys once at Miami Marine Stadium, which was a floating stage.

Messina: Oh, yes. I remember that distinctly because the audience was in front of us on surfboards and surf masks.

SFL Music: Yup. People used to ... Yup. Messina: The ladies were not shy about showing their gear. It was a very interesting show. Hard to keep my focus on my fingers.

SFL Music: Yeah. Yeah. It’s a unique venue. Actually, it’s gotten a historical designation and they’re in the process of renovating it right now. It could come back in the near future as a concert venue again along with the power boat racing and everything it had before.

Messina: Right.

SFL Music: Yeah. A couple of unique venues.

Messina: Yes, indeed.

SFL Music: What are your plans for your new studio when you get it done?

Messina: Well, my plans are ... I owned a commercial facility for a number of years and it’s not anything that by any stretch of the imagination one could say is profitable unless you’re just running a tremendous amount of people through it.

Where I end up actually being more frugal in terms of what I do for a living it’s better for me to just have a control room and a room to overdub in and if I need to do any tracking then I’ll go to a professional studio. I mean, I can track a whole album if I want to within a week. Why have all that real estate and finances tied up into something that maybe you use once or twice a year? Most

of the work that needs to be done once you track really is perhaps some clean ups on ... If it’s a live date there’s usually very little to do except for mixing and maybe cleaning up mistakes here and there that might have gotten made or a mic that wasn’t on.

For the most part, it’ll help me basically with my publishing business. I can do all my mixing and overdubbing and mix-downs for whether it’s radio ads or recording. It just makes it real easy. Again, being an engineer all my life it’s kind of like putting a saddle on a horse and going for a ride.

SFL Music: Sure. Sure. Will there be enough room there for maybe a small rehearsal space for you and the guys?

Messina: Oh, absolutely. Yeah. No. There’s plenty of room to be able to rehearse. We really don’t rehearse that much, at least on the touring thing, because the guys I have with me ... I have Craig Thomas on saxophone and he plays woodwinds and percussion and is also a really great singer. He was with me on the original Oasis album that I did right after Loggins. On bass, I have Michael Brady, who was with me on my Messina album, played bass and did some performing with me for a few years.

He’s back again. We lost George Hawkins here last year.

SFL Music: Yeah.

Messina: Who had been with us ... He started out with Kenny and I back in 1976 and then went on tour with Kenny and his solo career. He was his music director. Then later in life in I think it was 2008 I ran across him and driving him to an IBEW concert we were doing in Nashville. He reacquainted with Kenny and I and I asked him if he wanted to go to work and he said yeah and so he toured with me from, I don’t know, maybe around 2010, 2011 when we started up again, until he passed away last year.

Then on drums I have Dave Beyer, who has been with me ...

Gee, we’ve been working since maybe 2006 or ‘07. Something like that. Then Gary Oleyar, who has been with me since 1994.

All the guys are real familiar with their music. They’re great players. It’s not a pickup band.

SFL Music: Right.

Messina: It’s a great group of performing musicians and performing artists. We enjoy working together. I mean, we’re starting to work a little bit more but we maybe do four to 11 dates a month and then we go home and do what we do and come back. It keeps it fresh for me. I mean, I can’t be out on the road all the time. It’s not even a young man’s gig. It’s just a way the industry 48 | www.SFLMusic.com

kind of puts a leash around your neck and tells you that you’re only as good as your last record and out of sight, out of mind. They ride you like the golden goose through your career and many don’t make it.

SFL Music: Yeah.

Messina: Whether it’s the drugs or the alcohol or the temptation. None of that really interests me. I really love the guys I work with.

They’re great players, they make me look better. Most of them I think are better musicians than I am, which keeps my game up. I’m very pleased to have the people I have and if something should happen, we get a hit?

It happened to Willie and it happened to Kenny Rogers and a lot of times later in life you don’t know. I mean, Anthony Hopkins who I knew way back in the ‘70s when he was struggling to get a career going and I turn around one day and Silence of the Lambs has happened and 25 years later I see him and he’s still the kind, sweet, alert gentleman that he’d always been. It’s so great to see his success.

You never know what’s going to happen. I realize that luck is just being prepared when opportunity knocks. We keep our game up and who knows? We might hit a home run again.

SFL Music: Well, it sounds like you guys have a lot of fun with it when you go out and keeping those shorter tours keeps it fresh like you say.

Messina: Yes. It does.

SFL Music: Yeah. Are you doing any writing these days?

Messina: You know, I’m not. Mainly because I’m focused on my studio. I’ve got a couple of tunes I’ve been working on but I have such a large catalog that my goal at this point is if I can get my price up just a little bit higher I’d like to add one more musician, probably a keyboard player. There’s just so much in my catalog that I can’t do with just five pieces. At this point a lot of the tunes that I did with Kenny that I arranged was for two horns because we had Al Garth and John Clark.

SFL Music: Right.

Messina: Fortunately, the violin is a sawtooth wave. It generates a sawtooth wave pretty much like a horn. I’m able to take and arrange some of the tenor parts to be played on the violin below the alto. I’m getting some good horn parts back into the music, luckily, with the violin but there’s just certain things that I just need some chordal structure. If I want to do like some of the stuff in my solo, even the Oasis album it was very Latin-based and the

keyboard was a very prominent instrument in terms of just keeping a chordal pitch there for any other reason.

I’ve been learning but I need a real bass.” He said, “Okay” so he sold me the bass for $150.

Once Gary gets on the violin he gets away from the guitar so that just leaves me and it’s very difficult to be ... The precision on playing all the chords behind all of the melody that I’m singing with some of it is pretty obscure.

At some point in time subsequent to that, Bruce Palmer got busted and deported and so the Buffalo Springfield needed to audition bass players. By this time, I’m working with them on their third album as an engineer. I audition and I get the job as a bass player and their engineer.

SFL Music: Right.

Messina: It’s just one of those things where I’m ready to make that next step and bring my audiences up to date in terms of my solo work but I need to get one more musician to make that happen.

SFL Music: Right. Right. Well, you were part of what I considered three very pivotal bands. Can you share your thoughts on each of the three?

Messina: Well, from my perspective, I was very young when I started working with the Springfield. I had worked as an engineer in the business before that, apprenticing under Mike Jarreau, who was really kind of my mentor when I started working at 17 as a producer for Ibis Records. I was introduced to Michael when Glen Edwards, who owned the company, was actually mentoring me to become a producer, subsequent to which when I got back finally out of high school and living in LA he had just closed his record company.

I just didn’t think I was ever going to make it as a musician so I apprenticed under Michael, I worked in the studios, and Audio Arts, I worked at Harmony Recorders and eventually I worked at Sunset Sound Recorders where the Doors and Herbie Alpert and the Tijuana Brass and a lot of the current acts were recording.

Tutti Camarata who owned that took note of my talent, working around talent, asked me to come to work for him.

He gave me a studio because they needed two studios, they were so busy. It was during that time that I met the Buffalo Springfield as a recording engineer. I did their second album called Buffalo Springfield Again.

During their third album I started working with them, I should say, and during the time before that I had helped out a musician by the name of Joe Osborn, who you would know Joe Osborn from having been on the Ozzie and Harriet show with James Burton.

He and James Burton were the backup band. Joe had become quite a studio musician and he was a part of that whole ... Which eventually was tagged the Wrecking Crew.

SFL Music: Right.

Messina: Very, very busy. Joe wanted a studio in his garage and Mike and I said we would do it. He just didn’t have the budget to pay both of us. I said, “Why don’t you pay Michael and when you have some time here I just would really love to learn more about bass and maybe you can help me get around on it and give me some tips. I’ll work for free”, which he agreed to do.

During that time when I was learning that I had gotten a bass from Bob Ross who owned Harmony Records at that time. He had taken it from somebody who owed him a debt. He was about to sell it to Larry Knechtel, the keyboard player who was in Bread.

I said, “Hey, Bob. I don’t have a lot of money and I understand you have a bass and I might have an opportunity to audition and

Then somewhere in and around that time, I’m not sure whether it was a little before, a little after, but Leonard Negan called me and asked me if I’d consider producing the band. I said, “Well, why me?” He said, “Well, the guys love working with you. They call you Mr. Straight Ahead. They feel you’re honest and hardworking and that’s what I need.”

I took the job and it was at that point in time when I began to realize that Buffalo Springfield may have a shot at becoming huge and yet there was so much going on in the band, which at that point in time ... I can’t comment on what it was because, first of all, I didn’t know the guys that well. I was in the studio all the time.

They were all very kind and respectful to me so whatever was going on, God only knows what it was. Again, as I said, I was Mr. Straight Ahead so I was there to get the record done.

SFL Music: Right.

Messina: For the band and for Ahmet. It was a wonderful opportunity for me to see actually what it was like to have an audience that just really, really loved the band. Being the bass player in there I was sort of like a cat sitting on the mantle watching it all happen.

It was an awesome experience. Much of it went over my head because I was working so much to get that album out and fin-

ished, which, thank God, I did, turned it in and had quite a great critical acclaim to it, subsequent to which I didn’t know what I was going to do and Richie didn’t know what he was going to do and one day in the backseat of a taxi we were heading I think to a music store someplace.

starting to become like something that people could mellow out and come to a show. There wasn’t a lot of alcohol involved with that.

I asked him what he was going to do and he said he wasn’t sure.

I said, “Well, would you consider putting a band together? I’d like to work with you. I think ...” The Buffalo Springfield was a folk/ rock band. I said, “I think with your history of A Childs Claim To Fame and Kind Women and my upbringing ...” Of course, before I even met the Springfield I had built a studio with Mike Jarreau and a couple of musicians from Shreveport, Louisiana, had a backer on.

Messina: Then you had the country music scene, which these were beer drinkers. These were short-haired people. They were Okies from Muskogee and they had pride and the idea of long hair just did not sit well with them.

Once we got it built the guys that came in were Roger Miller, James Burton, Joe Osborn, Dorsey Burnette, Keith Allison, Jerry Allison. It was like all the musicians that I had always loved and didn’t know who they were or what their names were and suddenly I’m there mixing music that, to me, was ... I mean, I loved rockabilly. Didn’t know what that meant but that’s what it was called I guess.

SFL Music: Right.

We had kind of an interesting dilemma because both myself and Richie had a great fondness for country music. I grew up in a household where it was Lester Flatt and Earl Scruggs and it was Johnny Cash and it was Spade Cooley and Bob Wills and the Texas Playboys. You know, this was all part of my musical history and to suddenly be in a situation where in the South when we were going through there because we had long hair we were not really even allowed to go into the meditation rooms even. We just weren’t allowed and thrown out.

I said, “Richie, maybe we could do something that’s more country rock rather than folk rock. I think we have the history together.”

He said, “Yeah. Let’s see.” A few weeks later we found Rusty Young through our road manager ... Well, actually he was actually our guitar tech. We called them roadies in those days because he did a bit of everything.

Socially, it was quite a dilemma going on at that time. My point is to have put out a record that when you take to a radio station that it’s rock and roll they say, “It’s too country for us” and we’d go to a country station and, “That’s too rock for us.” We were caught between a rock and a hard spot and couldn’t get any airplay even though every show we performed sold out. That was a very difficult situation to be in, to know you had something special, to know that I had something, that we had something special.

SFL Music: Right.

SFL Music: Right.

Messina: He had lived in Colorado and knew Rusty, and suggested instead of me hiring Red Rhodes or Buddy Emmons to come in and work on Kind Woman try him out. We did. We brought him in. He did just a phenomenal job. Again, he was near our age. That’s when I looked up to Richie and I said, “You know what? Maybe that idea might work.” He was excited about it, I was excited.

Messina: But we just couldn’t get it marketed.

I think that was the birth of Poco subsequent to which I was signed to Atlantic, Richie was signed to Atlantic. Then beginning the process of trying to put together a band that Columbia Records was interested in. There’s all the hoo ha that goes on behind the stage, stress and trying to put things together to finally get the creative entity. But we did. Signed a deal with Epic and that began the Poco career.

Poco was, again ... Since it was Richie’s baby and my baby it had a different feel to it than Springfield, which I was just sitting in really. Poco became something that was starting to really, really get a lot of attention. Again, I think when I look back we were kids. You know, I was 20, 21. We didn’t really know a lot about the business and I think as a group we made some poor choices in terms of initially who was managing us. We should have made better choices there. I think that hurt us overall.

I do believe there’s ... Again, as I’ve mentioned to you, the business has a tendency to throw a collar around your neck and ride you like a golden goose. That stress of you’ve got to have a hit and you’ve got to do this, you’ve got to do that weighed pretty much very heavy on us.

The difficult time was it was really too soon of an idea really to try to put forth on a public. We had at that time in folk rock ... You have to realize there was a lot of acid going on, marijuana was 50 | www.SFLMusic.com

SFL Music: Couldn’t get the traction.

Messina: Yeah. By the time I made the decision to leave there was a lot of frustration. I know Richie was just torn apart, disappointed he wasn’t as successful as Stephen and eventually Neil.

It weighed heavy on him and a lot of stress to the point to where it was uncomfortable, I know for me, and the other guys would have to speak for themselves.

I decided it was time for me to get out of it. I was just going to go ahead and go back to production. I had learned a lot, enjoyed playing, did some great work with Rusty as a guitar player but I was ready to get off the road and I had just gotten married in May. In the process of making that changeover, signing with Columbia as an independent producer there were a few acts ... My brain just ... Andy Williams was given to me by the company and I turned him down, not because he’s not a great artist. I was too young for him. The kind of producer in my mind that he needed was someone who worked with orchestras and had a greater sense of his past and where he might go.

There is a lot more to this interview!

Continue reading online at www.SFLMusic.com Jim Messina will be performing at The Funky Biscuit on Feb 23rd

Knows?, Politricks, Felony, Tab, So Sad, and their harmonious rendition of Dennis Brown’s Once Upon a Time (I Was Lonely).

Reggae Jam

Florida International University North Campus December 29, 2019 A full day of reggae jams united a diverse fan-base of South Florida reggae music lovers on the field of Ronald L. Book Athletic Stadium, at Florida International University in North Miami, on Sunday December 2019. The 2nd Annual Reggae Jam – The Meeting of the Legends, celebrating 50 years of Inner Circle’s musical career, kicked off in the early afternoon, after a prior Reggae Breakfast Party. Along with the Grammy Award-winning headliners Inner Circle, other Reggae Grammy-winning legends, Steel Pulse and Mykal Rose, joined their contemporary veterans to headline the final sets before Inner Circle took the stage. Also featured on the bill were an assorted mix of reggae, ska, dance, and hip-hop groups including, Amara La Negra, Jahfe, The Resolvers, Spred The Dub, Red Lyte and Sound Movement Band, and DJ Badda Skat selecting the best reggae/dancehall bangers in between each set. All acts participating in this epic Miami jam-fest are currently South Florida locals (except British Steel Pulse), and joined together on this cool and cloudy day to bring a ray of sunshine to South Florida’s reggae community.

Popular local radio host Nikki Z kept the crowd energized and hyped throughout the day and introduced each band, starting with reggae/hip-hop/R&B artist Red Lyte, coupled with Sound Movement Band. They opened up the festival mid-afternoon with their signature “Raggamuffin” style: a combination of dub, reggae, rap and positive lyrics and aptly named for their most recent single.

Behind them a large digital screen was displaying mesmerizing and trippy dynamic visuals that continuously changed throughout each set. Spred The Dub followed next with a full band comprised of Mick ‘Rude’ Swigert (lead vocals/guitar), Hunter Hutchings (lead guitar), Kevin Johnson (bass/harmonies), Ryan Cross (drums), Markis Hernandez (saxophone), and Kevin Cripanuk (trombone).

Spred’s reggae and ska tunes had the crowd getting fired up early on with an assortment of their most upbeat and lively hits like Who 52 | www.SFLMusic.com

Two of South Florida’s biggest reggae jam groups, The Resolvers and Jahfe, struck the crowd next with their big band melodies and rhythms. These two powerhouses in the local South Florida reggae scene are very similar due their big band horn sections and femalefronted vocal talents. Siblings Sahara and Ojay Smith (children of international reggae musician Ernie Smith) take turns singing and harmonizing, with Sahara always dancing in traditional hot-steppin’ style, and were joined vocally with bandleader Ron Eisner, who also jams on lead guitar. Jahfe has a couple less members but still brings that big band energy, combined with roots-reggae, dub, and jam vibes. Fronted by Esther Fortune and led

by Sasha Simon, Jahfe has exploded onto the international music scene with powerfully conscious lyrics and an energetic passion for social justice similar to that of Steel Pulse, exemplifying this through the vibes felt during their live performance.

As the sun was setting on this beautiful day, one of the more highly-anticipated solo acts stormed the stage with her poppy and electronic dance, reggae, and dancehall style. Amara La Negra sang, twerked, and induced the crowd to join her, teaching her synchronized dance moves, along with two male dance companions. The Dominican-American, Love and Hip-Hip: Miami breakout star, rocked a huge Afro and an outstanding red, black, and sparkly leotard, with bright red thigh-high vintage boots and poofy Rasta-colored shoulder pads. She cranked up the energy of the crowd with her fun and pop-sounding reggae beats and had them reciting the chorus to her top hit Insecure from her recent breakout album “Unstoppable.” She concluded hyping up the fans with an electro-dance version of Shout!

Continuing into the night was one of the first notable reggae legends, Mykal ‘Grammy’ Rose, made famous from his time spent boosting Black Uhuru to fame with his patent vocal style of scats and “tu tu tweng.” Rose has a solo repertoire, spreading 30 years of successful album releases, including his latest release, “Ska Ska Ska,” his first attempt at producing Jamaican ska music and we were blessed to hear his debut single Everybody Gwan Skank.

He was backed by members of locals Kokay and The Truth on bass, drums, and keys and other musicians comprised his full 9-piece band. Rose went with a Black Uhuru-inspired set and performed a majority of their catalogue including hits like Party In Session, Sponji Reggae, Solidarity, General Penitentiary, Shine Eye Gal, and Guess Who’s Coming To Dinner.

45-year-old international roots-reggae veterans, Steel Pulse graced the stage with their strong powerhouse performance as a co-headliner with Inner Circle. They pumped out a slew of classics, beginning with Rally Round and transitioning into hits like Soldiers, Wild Goose Chase, Drug Squad, before closing with their most popular tune, Steppin’ Out. In between these sweet hits, Steel Pulse played a few songs from their recent album, Mass Manipulation, released earlier in 2019, including the title album track, single Stop You Coming And Come, and Don’t Shoot. Mass Manipulation continues Pulse’s constant political savviness, and witnessing them perform these new songs live is truly a sight to

behold when there are so many issues and protests that continue on throughout history like police brutality, racism, and political manipulations. Not only is Steel Pulse socially conscious, but they always provide an excellent big band live performance with an explosive three-piece horn section, powerful guitar solos from David “Electric” Elecciri Jr., and front-man David Hinds’ distinctive superstar skankin’ routine.

Last but not least, the organizers of the 2nd Annual Miami Reggae Jam and celebrating 50 years of music history, the legendary Inner Circle completed the successful festival with an entertaining and collaborative jam. The current lineup includes founding members/ brothers Roger Lewis (guitar/vocals), Ian Lewis (bass/vocals), veteran Bernard “Touter” Harvey (keyboard/vocals), Lancelot Hall (drummer for over 30 years), Andre Phillips (guitar), and Trevor “Skatta” Bonnick (vocals). After executing a medley of popular reggae covers like Trenchtown Rock, Pass The Dutchie, and Tenement Yard (credited to their deceased singer, Jacob Miller, but produced by Inner Circle), the legends brought forth Skip Marley to sing Bob Marley’s Lively Up Yourself, with them. The young 23-year-old son of Cedella Marley (Bob Marley’s eldest natural child and daughter, and member of The Melody Makers) emitted the spirit of his grandfather, singing his own single Slow Down, exuding a mixture of his uncles’ voices Ziggy and Damian, while jamming out a tune reminiscent of Stephen Marley. Following Skip’s introduction to the Miami crowd, the legends began to wrap up the night with notable classics, Sweat (A La La La La Long) and Bad Boys, and ended the celebration of Inner Circle’s half a century of roots music stardom with a “Royal” family jam of One Love/ Three Little Birds featuring Skip and other Marleys like JoMersa and Julian, jumping on to bless the stage and departing crowd with positive vibrations! – David Shaw | Photo Brad Stevens

JJ Grey & Mofro Revolution Live December 27, 2019

Swamp rockers JJ Grey & Mofro delivered their Southern rock mixed with funk and gospel to Revolution Live on Friday, December 27. The first of the band’s fournight New Year’s Eve run in the Sunshine State, the soulful material was symbolic of the frontman’s hometown, Jacksonville. While Grey stands as one of the greatest songwriters of the era, he and Mofro certainly impressed with 2-hours’ worth of excitement in their Fort Lauderdale performance.

With all seven musicians onstage draped in chic pinstriped suits, Mofro kicked off the set with a heartfelt harmonica solo leading into “99 Shades of Crazy.” The man sported short hair and a small beard outlining his baby face. Onstage, JJ played guitar, along with keys and harmonica. All of the listeners clapped their hands over their heads to “Jookhouse.” Red spotlights danced from behind the talent during “Lochloosa,” a reference to Lake Lochloosa in Northern Florida. Hun54 | www.SFLMusic.com

dreds of spectators joined in the sing-along before Grey even started with the words, “Homesick, but it’s alright. Lochloosa is on my mind… She’s on my mind.”

Concertgoers experienced the Hendrix cover “Hey Joe” before chanting to the fun-loving “Ho Cake.” The feel-good single “The Sun Is Shining Down” was followed by a two-song encore, “Brighter Days” and “Ol’ Glory.” The boys certainly enjoyed themselves, flaunting contagious smiles for the extremely receptive audience. The band played a similar set-list to last December’s year-end performance. But if it aint broke…

Following gigs in Orlando, Ft. Myers and Jackson-

ville, fans are already excited for the crew’s 2020 winter tour of the nation. “JJ & Mofro never disappoint,” said Christy Stina, an Executive Assistant from Delray Beach. “Besides new material, I was happy to hear JJ sing some of the old stuff.”

Warming up the stage, the Commonheart was an absolute blast. The 8-piece ensemble from the Pittsburgh area is led by Clinton Clegg. The animated singer possesses Joe Cocker’s remarkable vocals, along with John Popper’s mannerisms. Meanwhile, guitarist Mike Minda looks and sounds like a Woodstock-era Santana. The Commonheart truly put on a sensational show for South Florida. -By Todd McFliker, Photos by Jim Zielinski

Monday - Friday from 4:30pm to 6:30pm

Live Music Drink Specials Small Bites *Happy Hour at bar only*

www.BlueMoonFishCo.com 4405 W. Tradewinds Ave. Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, FL 33308

The Floyd Experience Gulfstream Park January 11, 2020

I’ve said it before and I’ll report it again, the Floyd Experience gets better with time. South Florida’s multitalented ensemble was back onstage delivering Pink Floyd classics on Saturday, January 11th at Gulfstream Park in Hallandale Beach. With each presentation, the sold-out performances are getting bigger and better. The venues are growing in size, along with appreciation from Pink Floyd fans of all ages.

Dressed in all black, the artists in The Floyd Experience are only improving their crafts, whether it is on guitar, keys, drums, bass, sax or incredible backup vocals. After all, it is not exactly easy to recreate familiar gems, like “Time,” “Great Gig in the Sky,” “Have a Cigar” and “Hey You.” Visuals included an intense laser light show, as well as onscreen photos and videos of the band.

The Sport of Kings room at Gulfstream Park was a perfect fit for the Floyd Experience,” said Barbara Strowd of Endless River Productions. “Whenever we announce a new concert, there is an instant response. We receive many messages expressing excitement for our shows, and we hope to perform many more in the area. Both Endless River Productions and the Floyd Experience are looking forward 56 | www.SFLMusic.com

to a very productive 2020. ERP is working with the BiCoastal Production Agency to promote all our projects. We are in discussions with several casinos about bringing our shows through.” – By Todd McFliker, Photos by Brad Stevens

FEBRUARY 15 Au-Rene Theater

TICKETS at BrowardCenter.org

Ticketmaster 954.462.0222 • Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office • Group Sales 954.660.6307 The Broward Center 2019-2020 season is presented by the Broward Performing Arts Foundation.

By David Shaw | Photos Gleb Barabanov

Hard Richards Five Year Reunion Interview SFL Music: It’s been 5 years since that last epic break-up show at Summer Daze outside of Propaganda, and now here we are, yet again, at Propaganda for another reunion show with that lineup. What made you all want to come back and play this holiday XXsKa-Mas Party for us?

Abbott: We haven’t been playing, mainly because some of our guys had to move and do some different things for a while, and everyone just so happens to be back in town. Matt called me up and had been talking to Iiro and asked me if he thought everyone would do it, and I said “Yeah I’ll do it if everybody else will do it!”

One thing led to another and here we are a couple weeks later and we’re ready to rock this show!

SFL Music: Is this a one-off or do you guys see yourselves performing together again in the near future?

Krug: We say it’s done every time…it never is.

Knox: The last time is always never the last time…basically.

Abbott: I like to compare THR to herpes!

Knox: Every time you think we’re gone, we always come back!

SFL Music: Does your current lineup include any new faces?

Abbott: It’s the same lineup that we’ve had for the last few shows!

We got Christa back on saxophone, Andres back on trombone, Matt back on guitar, Braincell back on the other guitar, Mr. Evan 58 | www.SFLMusic.com

Noto on drums and we got Iiro on bass, and myself and Alex on lead vocals.

SFL Music: Can you explain a little bit about how The Hard Richards came together all those years ago, and how you chose the name and how the current lineup formed?

Abbott: We started in ’94, about 25 years ago, when we were in high school and rockin’ out in the garage, and one of our buddies came over and was like “you should call yourselves The Hard Richards, because you’re all a bunch of dicks!” And it kind of stuck, so that’s where the name came from. We just started playing every house party and gig we could get back then. We started playing Spanky’s, Respectable’s…the whole Clematis strip, there’s places down in Ft Lauderdale we played a lot…and it just kind of grew from there. It ebbs and flows…we get going for a while and as life has it, when you have a band with 6 to 9 players in it, somebody has to go on a different path for a while, and we bring someone new in and fall in love with them!

We always invite people back, we don’t burn any bridges and we have a pretty “big dick” family now after all these years with a list of about 20 players that have come and gone. In the end we always have our core that we rely on, and these guys have really stepped up!

Krug: When I joined, it was around when the older original lineup was waning and moving apart and Evan and I were drummers in other bands. He had joined up with THR and had asked me if I would consider playing guitar with them. At the time I was booking shows with Sick Boy Productions and I didn’t really want to be in another band at the moment, but they were always my favorite band to book. If you booked THR show, you weren’t just booking a band, you were booking a party and I wanted to be a part of that! So when Evan and I came in it was like a second-

wave revival for THR…I “charmed” Christa into joining the band on sax, and we “stole” Andres from his other band (*Andres lets us know it was willingly*), and Brian was out, so it was Steve and Alex and a whole new band at the moment. A little bit down the road Brian came back and came back on guitar, so this secondwave formed and was the group that played that final breakup show and is coming back for this reunion.

SFL Music: In one of your last interviews you talked about how diverse your sound is. How did all of those different music genres like punk, reggae, ska, metal, and rap become a staple for The Hard Richards sound?

Abbott: It’s because of everybody! I think we all have our go to favorites, as far as our favorite bands. All of us revolve back around to the core. The Ramones or Operation Ivy is a go to for me. As the original crew grew older, we started getting younger cats in the band and started discovering and adding new flavor from them. The younger guys listened to a different type of music or perceived a song in a different way than we did and applied it to them, in their current time. It kind of just mixed all together.

You’re not in THR unless you can hang with THR, so we all kind of just jive really well. Everybody knows what everybody’s going to do. We just have something that’s special, and we can grab music and inspiration from all of the different genres of music that we all love and apply it to our music! If music has good energy, we’ll apply it to our music and try to emulate that in our style.

Valencia: One thing I’ve taken as the newest member of the last lineup after being in the band for just over two years…every song I heard from this group, whether it was a different style or genre (punk, metal, or rap)…it was always truly HIGH energy! No matter what song it was, it was always people jumping up and down and losing their minds! High energy all the way!

Krug: From the old school to the new school THR albums, you can hear a drastic change of different influences and energy… but it’s always THR. No matter what style song or idea a new player brings in, the product is still the same and still has THR flair on it. You can hear growth in THR albums over the years, but you never lose THR. SFL Music: Do you think after 5 years you can still bring that raw and fun energy in your performance you incorporated into your act over the last 20 years as a band?

Abbot: We got a bunch of energy pent up and we’re ready to get going, we’re ready to rock it!

Knox: The only band I’ve ever been with is THR, and it’s been 2 years since our last reunion show, so it’s super exciting for me to get back on stage and rock out with my guys and have a really good time! It’s exciting for me to show a lot of the new friends I’ve made in the past couple years, that knew I played saxophone, but was always hoping

I’d play again…and now’s the opportunity for them to come and see what all of the hype’s been about for the last 25 years total.

Krug: I don’t think taking a break is going to take anything away from THR, as soon as that first note hits…we’re not going to skip a beat! The energy is going to come out. That’s not going to change. It’s going to be the same old balls-to-the-wall show of energy it’s always been! The recovery time after the show, now that’s probably going to take a little bit longer, but the energy is still going to be there!

SFL MUSIC: How does it feel to even just be practicing with your friends again for the reunion show?

Abbott: Amazing!

Valencia: It feels like a high school reunion every couple years!

It really does. They walk through the door one-by-one and I’m like “HEY! HEY!” We don’t lose a beat…this is family and we’re ready to rock this show!

Knox: I think all of us agreed as soon as we came in the first practice a few weeks ago, it’s like we never left. It’s definitely a natural feeling for all of us to play and be together and like Andres said we’re a family. That will never change no matter how many years go by!

SFL MUSIC: Any chance you guys will be getting together to make new music or play more events?

Abbott: We had talked about getting together every once in a while, we are still figuring it out though. It would be nice to get together on a regular basis with the guys and maybe write some new stuff. I’m not saying no, but there’s nothing in the plans right this second to get this ball rolling 100%. We’re just having some fun and gonna rock out Friday!

Knox: We’re optimistic and hopeful…“Possibly Positive”! Just like one of our songs!

Engelbert Humperdink | Parker Playhouse Photo: Tom Craig

“This is the 5th year playing at the Funky Biscuit during the holidays for me. The first two were with my dad. To be able to continue the tradition is like coming home - especially with the group of musicians assembled.� - with, Matt Schofield, Scott Sharrard, Marc Quinones, Brett Bass, Richie Schmidt, and Melody Trucks - Allman Brothers Annual Holiday Celebration

NYE Allman Bros Celebration | Funky Biscuit Photo: Jay Skolnick

60 | www.SFLMusic.com

MARCH 14 I

PARKER PLAYHOUSE

cal

o

HE’S ONE THOUGHT AHEAD OF YOU APRIL 3–4 Abdo New River Room

TICKETS at BrowardCenter.org • ParkerPlayhouse.com

Ticketmaster | 954.462.0222 • Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office • Group Sales | 954.660.6307

“Crazy Mind-Blowing Fun!”

The Broward Center and Parker Playhouse 2019-2020 seasons are presented by the Broward Performing Arts Foundation.

AlanChamo.com

Follow us:

BrowardCenter

62 | www.SFLMusic.com

classifieds

ad - kelsey