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CDs To Watch For |
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Here are some must have CDs that will be
released very soon:G=MC2 is the Follow up to Marshall Tucker Founding Member George McCorkle's "American Street". Jimmie Van Zant : Jimmie has completed his second CD. More info on this in our next issue. However, I have heard some advance cuts, and all I got to say is WOW! Great CD. Candy Coburn: Candy''s new CD "Rev It Up" has just become available at her website. www.CandyCoburn.com
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Featured Artist |
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Current Featured Artist: Jimmie Van Zant
Previous Featured Artist:
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CHECK OUT GLS BOOKING!
Rocky Athas' Lightning
GLS BOOKING HELPS CONNECT TALENTED MUSICAL ACTS WITH EXCELLENT VENUES!
**GLS Booking is now booking the Rocky Athas Group AND Rocky Athas' Lightning for 2008 dates. (Southern Rock/Southern Blues)**
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Welcome
Welcome to Southern Fried Magazine
Southern Fried is a Quarterly Webzine covering Southern Music, Heritage, and Culture. We add updates all the time and OUR NEXT ISSUE COMES OUT February 1 *** Also, check out: ***
Straight Shootin' Interviews- Audio interviews of your favorite Southern rockers!
Tell all your rowdy friends about us and "GET FRIED!"
----- > HAVE Y'ALL REGISTERED TO WIN A FREE AUTOGRAPHED GUITAR? GO TO THE BOTTOM OF THE PAGE!! <-----
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We are very proud to announce that in less than one year we have had well OVER 180,000 hits, with more every day.
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The next issue goes online Feb. 1. If you are a business in the South (bed & breakfast, restaurant, bar, seller of handmade items, etc.) or are a band/solo musician in the South, get on board to be promoted with us!
CONTACT Susan Snider SSSouthernfried@aol.com or
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OUR SUSAN SNIDER NOMINATED FOR BEST MUSIC FEATURE WRITER!
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 Mardi Gras and a Little Cajun Cuisine
Posted by admin on Saturday, February 02 @ 00:19:19 CST (136 reads)
We hope you enjoy these Cajun recipes, but French cuisine isn't the only cause for excitement in The Big Easy! Mardi Gras begins February 5th and Carnival festivities have already begun. Mardi Gras day is the last day of the Mardi Gras Carnival season. It falls on a different day each year and is always 46 days before Easter.
Mardi Gras is a big festival that takes place the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday. Since 1699, Mardi Gras has been celebrated in cities worldwide. But no one does it better than New Orleans! A French phrase that is often used during these festivities is Laissez les bon temps rouler! or "Let the good times roll!"
It is New Orleans's premiere party season! It's time to enjoy life, party and have a good time! It's irresistibly fun, vibrant, sarcastic and sassy! If you understand how this city hums during the day and sings at night, you may be able to envision its celebration of Mardi Gras.
While many outsiders think of Mardi Gras as a "spring break" of sorts, the true meaning of this festive event, goes much deeper. Mardi Gras (from the French words, meaning "Fat Tuesday"), or Carnival (from the Latin words carn-caro levare, meaning "removal of flesh") is a Christian festival that embodies many traditions that originated with the ancient Greeks and Romans -- relating to their gods and religious festivals honoring spring fertility rites. In the early Middle Ages, the Catholic Church was unable to abolish all of these ancient traditions after converting pagan tribes to Christianity. The Church was forced to adapt many ancient feasts and festivals, originally celebrated in honor of pagan gods, to Christian beliefs. Today, revelers on parade floats still don the regalia of the Greek god of wine, Bacchus, during Mardi Gras celebrations.
While New Orleans is a city of mystery and excitement year round, it really comes to life during Mardi Gras season! On Fat Tuesday, walking around the French Quarter and seeing all of the costumes and masks is a unique and thrilling experience!
Much of the Mardi Gras spirit has to do with food. This is not the time to watch your diet or worry about your waist, as traditional foods served in this season are often rich and oily. From the deep-fried seafood to the spicy stuffed jalapeños, the celebration is a time to enjoy the food as well as the partying.
It's a time for family, frivolity, cultural appreciation and/or partying with blissful disregard for its consequences. Logistically, it is a potential nightmare. Streets are overtaken by pedestrians and parades, turning what would normally be painless voyages into games of navigational chess.
Mardi Gras is one big holiday in New Orleans! Everyone is wearing the official Mardi Gras colors (purple, green, and gold) and are adorned with long beads caught from the beautiful floats. They sit on the ground throwing balls, playing music, having a picnic and watching the crowds walk by between parades. It is full of excitement. All of the businesses and roads are practically shut down -- people are walking everywhere and meeting new friends. People are dressed in crazy costumes, kids are everywhere and there is an overall merriment throughout the city.
While Mardi Gras has always served as a forum for expressing sexual fantasies, the flesh-for-beads show is a relatively recent phenomenon. It was started by locals, perhaps going back as far as 1975. Beads weren't sold in the French Quarter emporiums then, so it was generally only locals who knew where to procure them. And it was locals, no doubt including striptease dancers employed on Bourbon Street, who had access to what were then, private balconies. Although, bars with public balconies on Bourbon Street only came into existence in the early 1980s. Mardi Gras is indeed, a celebration like no other! Mark Twain is quoted as saying "Mardi Gras is a thing that could hardly exist in the practical North....For the soul of it is the romantic, not the funny and the grotesque. Take away the romantic mysteries, the kings and knights and big-sounding titles, and Mardi Gras would die, down there in the South." It has also been said, that New Orleans is the most haunted city in America. And there is no doubt among locals, that it would not be uncommon to catch a glimpse of a ghost or two, among the crowd at Mardi Gras. Because, after all, no one ever really wants to leave New Orleans. Not even those now residing in the spirit world....
The city has a few haunted secrets that few outsiders have come to know. If you have an interest in the paranormal and you’re planning to attend Mardi Gras on February 5th in New Orleans this year, you may want to learn about some of the ghostly traditions surrounding the city and the event.
A resident by the name of Jacob Stein who lives on St. Charles upper Garden District area, relates a tale that in 2005 he was standing with friends watching a parade pass. "As the parade finished we all began to leave the neutral ground, (a large Median) only to witness a spectral parade float pass before them. We could see right through the massive beautifully decorated Mardi Gras Float", Stein says. "It was very well decorated and looked like no float I have ever seen in any parade in modern New Orleans times. It shook and moved like an old rickety wagon was underneath it! The Ghost Float apparition just vanished before our eyes as we stood their stunned."
Carol Seymour, a long time Uptown resident and now a Hurricane Katrina Texas transplant, relates that on January 6th in 1997 she and her husband witnessed a ghostly parade at or around midnight. The floats were truly glorious she says as they passed us by. The Ghost riders just stood there frozen like mannequins but I knew they were ghost! 3- 4 Ghost Floats passed us by then it was over. This Parade of spirits was the most strangest and beautiful parades I had ever seen!" Says Seymour. "But it was not of this world! As far as I know no ones ever sees a Mardi Gras Float until the first parade of the season and these floats, as far as I could tell, were definitely from beyond the grave!"
A story told many years ago was from a rider in a Parade. The Rider, M. Ebbs, reports that a friend of his (who was supposed to ride in a parade with him) had passed away two days before the actual parade took place. "As the Parade began to roll I looked over and there he was standing next to me big as life throwing beads!"
Mardi Gras ghost? Real or just too many spirits from the celebrations? Visit new Orleans and find out for yourself! It's an experience you'll never forget! And if you are fortunate enough to attend, remember: Let the good times roll!
Nicole Trivette
aka "lil_Queenie"
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Not Just Another Interview by Jody Willman
Posted by admin on Friday, February 01 @ 13:15:44 CST (169 reads)
Well as hard as it is to believe, another 3 months have flown by and it’s time for some more Southern Fried! Now as some of you know, I’m a wanna be songwriter/poet/storyteller, and I love it. Last issue I gave you my impression of the “Big State Festival” last Oct. in College Station, Texas. Seems I left out a part of the story that may turn out to be the best part of being there.
Sitting next to my wife and I were a few folks from my neck of the woods that we’d never met but seemed to be really enjoying the show. I started talking to one ol' boy and he mentioned that his nephew was a guitarist. Well you know man -- people that love their kin tend to like what they do a little more than others might. So being polite, I said well how old is he? He said he’s 9! And that’s him right there. I looked and there stood a little dude about as big as a 9 year old should be, cute as a bug’s ear, whatever that means, something mama used to say. But there was something different about this kid, and I noticed it when Skynyrd started playing. It was his eyes! Not just that they are an intense blue, but where they were looking. They never strayed much from Rickey Medlocke's fingers. And the fingers of his left hand, though down at his side, were forming chords. Now, there may have been 20,000 people standing behind us, a lot of pretty girls, other kids, his family, etc. But he only had one interest…Southern rock! I was introduced to his mom and dad, Paulette and Steve and they both proudly told me that their son could play a lot of Skynyrd's stuff, including “FREEBIRD.” Now THAT really peeked my interest, because if that was true…Nah couldn’t be! Well, not to bore y’all anymore with little details about how we hooked up back home after I went to the kid’s myspace page and decided from the first video I saw that I needed to really meet this kid. Now that will be the last time you hear me call him kid! His name is BRYCE SHAVER and here is my effort to introduce you to something special!
~Interview with Steve and Paulette Shaver and their son Bryce~
To both: I want to thank you guys for inviting me to your home and for the hospitality.
Reply: It’s our pleasure and thank you for coming.
Let me get right to it, dad what kind of music did you grow up listening to?
Reply: Van Halen, George Strait, Hank Jr. all kinds of different stuff.
That’s cool, mom and you?
Reply: The same, we went to high school together. High school sweethearts, huh? Well it interests me that Bryce chooses to play Southern rock on his own, not influenced by what he hears around the house or with family. I love to see young people liking Southern rock. How long has Bryce been playing guitar? Reply: Two years ago Feb. 14th we got him his first real guitar and it was just a “First Act” from Wal-Mart. TWO YEARS? (I might have said that loud) Wow! Now that blows me away! What was his first “Favorite” song if you can remember? Reply: That one, what was it? Drift away? When did you decide to invest the time and money into getting Bryce guitar lessons? Reply: Two years ago, he seemed to have a knack. I’ll say! How does it make you feel seeing him up there in front of a bunch of people, just freaking them out? Reply: Well proud, of course, but kind of amazed too. He just handles it so well. How far would you like to see him carry this? Reply: As long as he’s happy we’ll support him all the way. We love to hear him play as much as he loves to play. Now right about here I was going to ask the Shavers about the tales of what fame and money can do to some young actors, musicians and the like…but after meeting Steve and Paulette Shaver, in their home, one on one, I knew the answer already. His raisin’, the love for him, and the family support he gets, speaks for itself… He’s in great hands! Now Bryce my friend, do you know you’re nine years old? Reply: Yes sir. I’m asking because you walked into this room like you were at home…Oh! Right, ok you are at home! Reply: (Laugh) Do you think you could walk out in front of oh say 5000 people with the same air of confidence you walked into this room with? Reply: I think so, why not? Most people like me. (Laugh) How do you feel when there are bunches of people watching you play? Reply: I’m nervous before I get on stage but after I’m on stage I’m not. I like for people to watch me play. I bet the girls like you huh? Reply: Not yet it’s too hard to pick just one. (Laugh) They will, trust me. What’s the coolest thing anybody ever said to you after watching you jam? Reply: You’re going to be a rock star! (Laugh) Yep, who’s your guitar teacher? He must be good. Reply: Kenneth Sanders is my teacher now. You’ve had another teacher? Reply: Yes but after a year he said I needed another teacher because I could play everything he could. Wow! What draws you to Southern Rock? Reply: It’s harder to play and more fun than most music. Who’s your favorite Southern Rock band?
Reply: Lynyrd Skynyrd. A man after my own heart! What’s your favorite Skynyrd song right now? Reply: "Freebird" -- but I like all of their music And you can play and sing that? Reply: Yes sir, it took me a month to learn. Do you know how many grown veteran rockers would love to say that? Reply: Yes sir. What kind of guitar do you have? Reply: A Taylor and a Gibson Got em tuned? Reply: Yes sir. Well “Play me a little” People, I’m going to tell you this much, I was absolutely blown away by the talent, and the absolute dedication this young southern brother has inside him…it’s a beautiful thing! And after you finish reading this issue of Southernfried, take my advice and go to www.myspace.com/bryceshaver and check this MAN out! And keep going back and check now and then, because I have a feeling you’ll be seeing a LOT of new stuff on his myspace and everywhere else. Just remember folks, you saw him here first from the inside out! Oh yeah, a few more things about Bryce… He plays piano/keyboard, bass guitar, mandolin, some drums, lead and rhythm, so all you non-players like me well… what can I say?
Until next time remember to keep it SOUTHERNFRIED! Jody
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Doug Gray talks with Bruce Wall
Posted by admin on Friday, February 01 @ 11:10:02 CST (120 reads)
Recently I sat and talked with Doug Gray about all the recent Marshall Tucker related news....
Click to listen
To hear the whole interview, listen on www.43thehawk.com Sunday Feb. 3rd at 11:00AM EST and again at 9:00PM EST
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An Evening With Southern Rock Friends....
Posted by admin on Friday, February 01 @ 10:50:00 CST (100 reads)
The other night I was invited down to hang out with friends Tommy Crain (Charlie Daniels Band), Monica Perry (Singer.Songwriter), Donnie Winters (Winters Brothers Band) and Keith Landry (ToTo, Lee Greenwood) down in Franklin, Tennessee. What a wonderful evening of music and true Southern Rock and Blues. Tommy's band, The Crosstown All-stars, took the stage and just demonstrated why he is the signature guitar sound for the Charlie Daniels Band for over two decades. I spent the evening laughing, smiling and shooting pictures. Most of the audience was oblivious to the number of celebrities hanging around the little bar that evening. That being said, I am a believer that pictures speak louder than words. Especially, when they are coming from me. So, I will let a few pictures tell the story...
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Southern Music Alliance
Posted by admin on Friday, February 01 @ 01:08:38 CST (132 reads)
 The Southern Music Alliance is pretty much exactly what its name implies. It is a gathering of Southern Music related Artists, Industry Professionals, and Fans coming together to form an entity which promotes southern music. Sounds simple, right? Want to know more? Southern Music Alliance is the brain child of Bruce Wall, who has teamed up with all of his industry friends to create a unique opportunity for everyone. The organization offers everything from Website development, promotion, booking, merchandising, and marketing, to lots of special offers for fans. The website, which is still under development, will offer different levels of access for professional members, Artists, and Fans. The organization already contains members from several Southern Rock's greatest bands. The purpose is to provide one stop shopping for everything southern music related. The site contains stores, music, and information. It also contains a new management company called "Blue Room Management" which already works with several Southern Rock Legends including "Dangerous Dan Toler". There is also a T-shirt/merch company co-owned by Dan Toler. For more information go to www.SouthernAlliance.org
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Our Friends The Southern Boys on FameCast
Posted by admin on Friday, February 01 @ 00:07:05 CST (82 reads)
The Southern Boys Band are now in pre-production of their debut CD. They have moved on to the second round of Famecast (Online version of American Idol). It is very reminiscent of when Bo Bice was on the show... Showing that Southern Rock is Alive and Well!!! To view and show your support go to You can vote once a day, so keep voting, spread the word, and help support Southern Rock.... The Southern Boys Band demonstrate that Southern Rock is alive and well. "The Southern Boys Band remind me of the early days touring with Marshall Tucker, CDB, and Skynyrd".. Gary Allen (Charlie Daniels Band and JJ Cale)
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Rowdy Frynds Tour is Back!!!
Posted by admin on Thursday, January 31 @ 23:05:00 CST (283 reads)
 (Nashville, TN)- Fans will have the opportunity to enjoy some of the best music imaginable when Rock & Roll Hall of Fame members, Lynyrd Skynyrd join country music icon, Hank Williams, Jr. for another round of their Rowdy Frynds Tour hitting cities nationwide beginning April 4th. Ranked as one of the Top Ten Concerts of 2007 based on shows played, the following of these two legendary acts is evident. In 20 dates nationwide the tour grossed over $10.5 million. “Our following of fans fit together perfectly,” said Johnny Van Zant. “We can’t wait to get back out there and have some fun!” “Last year was incredible, “said Hank, Jr. “How could we not get together for another round?!” Ranked as one of the best-selling bands of all time by the Recording Industry Association of America and recent Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees, Lynyrd Skynyrd is still going strong with almost 65 albums, 30 million albums sold to date, and over 80 performances annually. To date, the Southern anthem “Sweet Home Alabama” has passed the 1,000,000 mark in downloaded master ring tones, proving that Lynyrd Skynyrd is a major industry icon that appeals to all generations. Five-time Entertainer of the Year, Hank Williams, Jr. is a giant in country music. As the voice of Monday Night Football for 19 years he can ignite a crowd with his famous words, “Are you ready for some football?!!” He is also the first country performer to ever receive an Emmy and three more soon followed. He is the original country boy who has carved his own path in this industry, staying true to himself and proving that “A Country Boy Can Survive.” Rowdy Frynds 2008 Tour Dates:April 4th Giant Center- Hershey, PA April 5th US Bank Arena- Cincinnati, OH April 11th Wolstein Center- Cleveland, OH April 12th Nationwide Arena- Columbus, OH April 18th Sears Centre- Chicago, IL April 19th The Palace- Detroit, MI April 25th Cajundome- Lafayette, LA April 26th CenturyTel Center- Shreveport, LA May 2nd The Arena at Gwinnett Center- Atlanta, GA May 3rd Mississippi Coast Coliseum- Biloxi, MS May 9th Coliseum Complex- Greensboro, NC May 10th Thompson-Boling Arena- Knoxville, TN May 16th John Paul Jones Arena- Charlottesville, VA May 17th Mellon Arena- Pittsburgh, PA May 30th Rupp Arena- Lexington, KY May 31st Bobcat Arena- Charlotte, NC June 6th Fed-Ex Forum- Memphis, TN June 7th Enterprise, AL- BamaJam June 13th Marion, SC- Marion County Country Music Festival June 14th Veterans Memorial Coliseum- Jacksonville, FL For more information on Lynyrd Skynyrd, please visit www.lynyrdskynyrd.com. For more information on Hank Williams, Jr. please visit www.hankjr.com.
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Music Reviews - Bruce Wall/Tamar Fleishman
Posted by admin on Thursday, January 31 @ 23:15:00 CST (210 reads)
Review of Chris Hicks' - "Dog Eat Dog World" - By Bruce Wall
In a Dog Eat Dog world Chris Hicks is cooler than Scoobie Doo... I had been anxiously awaiting the release of this CD for over a year now. Chris is one of my favorite artists working today. Chris is a very versatile musician mastering every instrument he touches. He is a skilled guitarist, keyboardist, harmonica player, as well as vocalist. He is the music director for The Marshall Tucker Band, as well as their lead guitarist. This CD features Paul Hornsby producing, and lots of special guests. Chris blends Blues, Funk, and Soul to achieve a truly rockin' southern sound. This is in my top three new CD's to come out in 2008 and definately recommend it for all you Southern Blues/Rock fans out there. Yesterday I had the CD blaring when a Nashville producer associate of mine stopped by. He immediately commented on what a great CD it was. So, do yourself a favor, pre-order yours at... http://www.cduniverse.com/productinfo.asp?pid=7608430
Trivia: The guitar seen on all the photos for the CD is a George McCorkle signature Honey guitar given to Chris by George McCorkle and myself. Only 100 of these were made. There are only a few left as most went to friends and family of George who sadly passed away last June. If you are interested in acquiring one of the few remaining guitars go to.... http://www.southernalliance.org/Store/. Look for an interview from Chris Hicks coming soon...
Review of "Carolina Dreams '77" - Marshall Tucker Band - By Bruce Wall
This CD/DVD set is probably the greatest piece of Southern Rock history to be released in over twenty years. The folks at Ramblin records took a lot of time and expense restoring these tapes for release. It is one of the only complete live shows I am aware of in mainstream distribution. It captures The Marshall Tucker Band in their full prime at the peak of their career. Some creative engineering had to be done to restore some of the damaged parts on the tape. I have to take my hat off to my friend Doug Gray for making sure this was released for all to see. Like Ronnie Van Zant said, "You have to be a fan of The Marshall Tucker Band before I will sit and have a drink with you." So if you only buy one CD or DVD all year buy this one.... You will not regret it. Available at Walmart and www.MarshallTuckerBand.com
Review of "Brothers of the Southland" CD - By Bruce Wall
I don't care which Southern Rock band you are a fan of, this new CD is for you. The band features Dangerous Dan Toler (The Gregg Allman Band, The Allman Brothers, Dickey Betts & Great Southern), Jimmy Hall (Wet Willie, Jeff Beck and Hank Jr.), Steve Gorman (Black Crowes), Henry Paul (Outlaws, BlackHawk), Reese Wynans (Stevie Ray Vaughan), Bo Bice (American Idol). I was honored to witness this project come together from day one. Was invited into the studio, first rehearsals and their first show. If you want to witness the pure magic of music that seems to be missing these days, this is it!! Look for a spring release of the CD and a Tour. Until then, you can download the whole CD at www.SouthernAlliance.org/smashop
Trivia: This was the last project George McCorkle was involved with prior to his passing. By the magic of modern technology, George appears on "Can't You See" with Bo Bice. He also wrote 3 of the tracks on the CD. On another note, the Myspace page and download store had over 15,000 hits within a matter of hours.
Review of Jimmie Van Zant - "My Name Is Jimmie" - By Bruce Wall
What can I say about this CD? I loved this project so much I invested my own money into it. It is 100% Van Zant and 1000% Jimmie.... Jimmie and producer Timothy Eaton achieved a distinct Jimmie Van Zant sound. This a a complete departure from Jimmie's first CD "Southern Comfort". It demonstrates that Jimmie is a lot more than just a member of the Van Zant family. All I can say is go to www.JimmieVanZant.com to preview the CD and Video. The CD is slated for release this spring along with a performance at the CMA Fanfare in Nashville. Way to go Jimmie!!! Great CD and I am proud to be part of it and call you friend!!
Review of Bo Bice's "See The Light" - Bruce Wall
This CD is pure Southern Rock!! I spoke with Bo about the CD at the Brothers of the Southland rehearsals in Nashville. Bo was excited about the CD because it was the first CD that was pure Bo Bice. Bo had control over the content on this CD and shows his Southern Rock roots with an excitement only Bo can provide. I can not find a weak track on this CD and again, I would say this is truly one of the best CD's of 2008. The video for Bo's first single "Witness" has topped the charts on VH1 for weeks. Way to go Bo!!! This again goes to show Southern Rock is alive and well. The record industry could stand to learn from CDs like Bo Bice and Brothers of the Southland. Give the people good music and they will listen and purchase. To listen to tracks and order go to http://www.bobice.com/music#120
Review of Van Zant's "My Kind Of Country" - Bruce Wall
 This CD is the follow up to Johnny and Donnie's "Get Right with the Man" CD. The boys show the world not only are they Southern Rock's Royal Family, but the Kings of Country. I love this CD because in normal Van Zant style the songs touch the heart one minute, make you laugh the next. Johnny and Donnie never disappoint with music that has meaning. This CD is probably my favorite of the year because so many of the songs hit home with me. As a father, "That Scares Me" has become an anthem to me. The song "Friend" took my breath away. With the loss of my best friend, Southern Fried co-creator, and Marshall Tucker guitarist, George McCorkle, this song really hit home. It said everything I felt and wanted to say to my friend. If you are a Country fan, Southern Rocker or just a fan of good music, you absolutely need this CD... Check it out at www.TheVanZants.com
Review of Matt Zeiner Band – Col. Tamar Alexia Fleishman
"Matt Zeiner" is an album of the Dickey Betts Band (vox/keyboard). He’s brought his skills to his own band....a self-declared combo of Rock, Soul, Funk and roots. Not surprisingly, Matt counts The Allman Brothers, Dickey Betts and Miles Davis as his influences, and yet, his voice has a Van Morrison quality to it. “The Crash” has a Classic Rock/Southern Rock ballad mix sound. “This is The Life” shows his ability to write thoughtful lyrics. “Can’t Get a Nickel for a Dime” has a power-Country ballad quality to it. “Melody” has some Allman Brothers-like riffs. His debut CD, “Live on a Summer Night”, is well produced with clear sounding vocals.
Review of Hammertorch – Col. Tamar Alexia Fleishman
Hammertorch is a newly formed Country-Rock band from Murfreesboro, Tennessee. They list as their influences The Band, CCR and Tom Petty. There are five musicians in the band and they have a solid Southern sound, with even a few Skynyrd-like and MTB-like riffs. The lead singer has a very honky-tonk kind of voice.
Not content to just throw out covers, their twangy songs include “Dark Country Night”, “Murfreesboro Motel” and “Flat Tire.” I’m sure they provide a fun, good ol’ boy experience live. You can see them at the Mercy Lounge in Nashville.
Review of Blue Eyed Grass – Col. Tamar Alexia Fleishman
Blue Eyed Grass is a modern “new- grass” duo, with modern Country and Bluegrass influences, a la Allison Krauss or even Kathy Mattea. The duo is Delnora Reed (who was a finalist in the Miss West Virginia pageant) and Jayron Weaver (who you might remember from Nashville Star 2005). They both play guitar and mandolin.
Blue Eyed Grass has a sophisticated sound that you can hear in songs like “Sweet Intoxication”, “Fill Me Up” and “As I Am”. While the instrumentation is fairly simple, the vocals are clean and soothing. For more information, check out http://www.myspace.com/blueeyedgrass.
Review of Karen Collins and the Backroads Band – Col. Tamar Alexia Fleishman
West Virginia born, but Maryland/DC-based Karen Collins is a real old school country singer, who will remind you of other women who got their start in DC: Hazel Dickens and Patsy Cline. She’s got the high-pitched yodel and honky-tonk thing going. Her band is made of 4 people, complete with steel pedal guitar, etc. Songs like “Guitar Queen” and “Tail Light Blues” have a retro sound that should appeal to lovers of Classic Country.
She can be seen at outdoor fests all over the DC area.
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Simple Man Cruise 2008 - by Eddy and Laurie Kamont aka The Hootys
Posted by admin on Thursday, January 31 @ 23:00:00 CST (226 reads)
 I don't know who came up with this BRILLIANT idea, but it is a dream come true. I think it will become something similar to the yearly migration of salmon up to Alaska to spawn or the yearly return of the swallows to Capistrano. Now we have a NEW pilgrimage. It's the Skynyrdholics returning to Miami yearly to jam on one of Carnival's finest cruise ships to go sailing off into the sunset with some of the GREATEST BANDS on board to make it a Southern Rock Music Lover's dream come true! The Skynyrd Maiden Voyage was in 2007. It started with Skynyrd as the MAIN attraction followed by a host of other bands that would please anyone's musical palette. .38 Special opened for Skynyrd then and they had a host of other bands that played at different times on various parts of the ship. They included Blackberry Smoke, Drivin' N' Cryin', The Blue Dogs, American Minor, Tishamingo, Heather Luttrell, Sister Hazel and Zac Brown. I am probably missing a couple, but hey I never said I was perfect. Now it's 2008 and the Carnival Cruise Lines needs a bigger boat to handle the larger crowd of Skynyrdholics since word is really starting to get around. This year it was christened "The Simple Man Cruise."
The night before the cruise was a pre-party at the Sheraton Miami Mart and the mood was set for the sail. Good food, good bands playing throughout the evening, but most of all friends once again met up or new friendships were developed before we set sail the next day. Simple Man©, who oversaw and/or sponsored the trip, covered all the bases providing shuttles from our respective hotels to the boat and back to our hotels at the end of our trip. Boarding went smooth, Carnival had enough staff to handle the 2000 odd number of people embarking to make it a smooth process.
Instead of a 3 day cruise, this year they decided to add another day and 2 port stops, Key West, Florida and Calica, Mexico, in lieu of just one stop in the Bahamas they made in 2007. Skynyrd headlined on that cruise, but along for the ride this year was The Marshall Tucker Band along with a lot of other bands that would fill most of the trip with the music and entertainment that you love. Skynyrd performed three concerts - two indoor and one outdoor. They proved once again why they are a MAJOR driving force in today's music world with a SOLID fan base and devoted followers that will travel all over the world to see them. On the boat we met people from Scotland, Australia, England and folks from all different corners of the good ole USA. Marshall Tucker provided a JAM that everyone around the world would love to see. Back to back nights of a 3 hour long concert pulling musicians from Lynyrd Skynyrd, the Georgia Satellites plus any one else from the other bands, including roadies and each and everyone of them played their hearts out like Skynyrd did with their concerts. There was no holding back. I know none of the fish in the ocean slept on those nights 'cause Tucker didn't walk off the stage until after 3 am and everyone was Tuckered out. Even after a 3 hour long gig the band hung out and handed out autographed photos and took photos with anyone that was interested after the show. I sure the heck hope The Marshall Tucker Band is on the boat for 2009.  The Marshall Tucker Band
 MTB and a Skynyrd Jam Rickey Medlocke and Gary Rossington  Skynyrd's Michael Cartellone  Eddy and Laurie with Marshall Tucker's Doug Gray
Laurie and Chris Hicks of The MTB
Carol Chase of Skynyrd, Laurie, Rickey Medlocke of Skynyrd and Carol's daughter
We can't forget about the Lynyrd Skynyrd Question and Answer session that was held with all 9 members of Skynyrd in attendance. It was an HONOR just to be in the same room with them as they got up close and personal with us without any instruments in their hands. I don't remember all of the questions but this one in particular I will never forget. One of people chosen directed this at Gary and said how much they IDOLIZED him and how he was their hero for the longest time. Going on to say that their life would be complete if they could just get a hug from Mr. Rossington. Well.....before they got finished speaking Rickey Medlocke jumped off the stage, ran to the person and led her up to the stage for Gary to hug. I think EVERYONE was deeply touched that very moment to witness the kind and loving heart of Lynyrd Skynyrd.
Question and answer time
The other groups in attendance on the cruise who helped to provide music and entertainment were: Georgia Satellites, Blackberry Smoke, Cowboy Mouth, American Band, Backyard Tire Fire, Band of Thieves, Blue Digs, Zac Brown Band, Brian Collins, Grayson Hill, Kneckdown, Leslie Heather Luttrell, Magnolia, Men Without Youth, Scott Munns, Oakhurst, Brandon Perry, Scarlet Kings and Fracisco Vidal.
Among many of the things to do on the ship was swimming in the onboard pool, hanging out in the two hot tubs while the bands were playing out on the Lido deck. They had 3 different water slides, a nine hole miniature golf course, a gym for those that love to work out like Mrs. Hooty. And one day I ran into Carol Chase going there also. Plenty of photographers on board and thousands of photos to choose from. They had batteries for your cameras and a machine that would take your camera card and put your photos on disc. A duty free shop of cigarettes and liquor was also on board. Being I am a smoker I was delighted to buy a carton of Kools on board for $23.75 when I normally pay $55.00 a carton back in New Jersey. Plenty of food on board, both buffet style and fine dining and also free room service, if you so desired. Of course, the ship had a souvenir shop with concert tee shirts and other memorabilia.
Making new friends. Standing next to me is Dorothy, then Laurie, Ron and his wife Lorraine-aka White Hat, then there is Dorothy's hubby George.
The returning alumini (those that were on the first Skynyrd Cruise) were given a special treat by having their very own picture taken with the entire band. One morning I woke up (no I'm not going to sing the CSNY song) at 4:30 went up to have a cigarette and I heard live music playing, so I decided to play Dick Tracy and investigate. Lo and behold there was a band jammin' and people dancing at one of the bars on the boat. They were just having a good ole time and like the Chicago song goes, Does anybody really care what time it is? I stayed until 5 AM and decided it was way past my bedtime but the party was still going strong.
When the ship docked in port you could go on excursions of these places. They had shuttles and taxis waiting to ferry you into town so you can sample some of the local fare, buy souvenirs or just do things that a tourist does. While poor Mrs. Hooty was in Key West playing tourist she lost her ship boarding pass!! She PANICS, she's FRIGHTENED and WORRIED about how and if she can get on the ship. She sees her friend Rickey Medlocke and exclaims "Rickey I lost my boarding pass" and in true Rickey fashion he says "Oh sh_t.....you're fu__ed!" Luckily, some VERY NICE people found it, returned it to the boarding area and Mrs. Hooty was able to get back on board without being left behind in Key West. I personally thanked the people in Cabin U25 for returning the boarding pass to the ship. Thank God Mrs. H was able to return 'cause if they didn't let her I was jumping ship. Maybe I would have pirated it but I sure the hell wasn't gonna let Mrs. Hooty be left behind in Key West all by herself. I would have DEFINITELY jumped ship. Once I found out that she was having a problem getting on the ship I was pacing like an expectant father and once the last people got on board before they lowered the gangplank and I still didn't see Mrs. Hooty, I sprang into action asking the person that screens the luggage and wands the people getting back on the boat about the problem. He directed me to the boarding officer who asked me what cabin she was in and pulled up her picture and information that she SUCCESSFULLY re-boarded, but I still had to see for myself. I ran back to the cabin and there was no sign of her, no Mrs. Hooty, no souvenir purchases, no sign of her. Was the boarding officer's information correct???? Oh well, I got to search the ship and find her, asking people along the way if they'd seen Mrs H. FINALLY......I found Mrs. Hooty and it was like hitting the 100 million dollar lottery all by yourself. The rest of the trip went smooth and Mrs. H got off in Mexico and played tourist again without losing her boarding pass. Buying a shirt for her key tapper and a hat for herself. She and her friends stopped in a Cantina and put down some shots of Tequila and had a blast with the locals there.  You know how they say that at least once in your lifetime you have to see the Grand Canyon, Niagara Waterfalls or Old Faithful in Yellowstone Park? Well.....add the Lynyrd Skynyrd Cruise to your must do once in a lifetime list of things to do and you won't be disappointed, I promise. Already, Sixthman is asking people who went on the trip if they were willing to pay extra this year for a five day cruise. So, start putting your change in a glass jar and making plans for January 8th in 2009 because that is when the next Skynyrd Cruise sets sail. And I GUARANTEE you that some, if not all, will be returning next year.
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Charlie Daniels Joins Grand Ole Opry
Posted by admin on Thursday, January 31 @ 23:00:00 CST (134 reads)
 January 22, 2008 — An emotional Charlie Daniels became the newest addition to the roster of the Grand Ole Opry during Saturday’s edition of Opry Live on GAC. The induction came after Marty Stuart joined the Charlie Daniels Band at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium for a rendition of "Long Haired Country Boy." Marty, aided by wife Connie Smith in welcoming Charlie, noted that the Opry is "a steady force in the midst of many passing trends," adding that that is "also an exact, word-for-word description of you." Charlie remembered how his family would listen to the Opry every Saturday night when he grew up in North Carolina. "For me to stand on this stage tonight," he said, "the same stage that Ernest Tubb and Roy Acuff and Hank Williams and Bill Monroe and all of those wonderful, wonderful people — my heroes — stood on, and to stand in front of this crowd, especially in this building, and to go out over the airwaves is more than I can say." Marty and Connie accompanied him on a rendition of "Drinkin’ My Baby Goodbye," and Montgomery Gentry and Trace Adkins joined the group for Carter Family classic "Will The Circle Be Unbroken."
Grand Ole Opry Live airs every Saturday at 9 p.m. Eastern Time. http://www.gactv.com/
CONGRATULATIONS CHARLIE FROM EVERYONE HERE AT SOUTHERN FRIED!
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Interview of Allan Kaplon & The Non-Prophets - Susan Snider
Posted by admin on Thursday, January 31 @ 23:00:00 CST (108 reads)
This band is very impressive. I, for one, can listen to their music all day. They have the sound of Rock, but I find them to be a more mellow Southern Rock with an Outlaws/Marshall Tucker sound. “Strings” has got to be my all time favorite. It talks about life, love and hope. As I listened to the other songs I found myself replaying them over and over. Next thing I knew, I was singing along. There is nothing better than music you can relate to and understand. I want to hear more from them every time I play their music. Come on guys, let’s see a CD out there for the folks to hear. I can only say that this band should be touring the country and I hope they can make it to the West Coast.
The Band consist of:
Allan Kaplon-Guitar and Vocals--Jeff Chester-Drums and Percussion--Tim Scott-Vocals and Percussion--Dave McKenzie-Bass
SF: Where are you from? Born and raised.
Allan: Born in Rochester,N.Y., lived there for only 1 year. Grew up in Belmont, North Carolina, went to high school at South Point and college at Belmont Abbey.
SF: What age did you start playing music and realize you wanted to play for a living?
Allan: Started playing at 13 on a cheap nylon string guitar I got at Roses Dept. Store. Within a week, I knew I wanted to play music for a living.
SF: How long has the band been together?
Allan: We've been together for about 9 monthes. Originally I just put together a unit to play a show I had at the Double Door Inn. I only intended it to be a 1 time thing, having gotten burned out on the whole band thing and playing out 3 or 4 times a month solo for the last year and a half, I was having some success with just me and the guitar. However, working with Dave McKenzie on bass and Jeff Chester on drums, just felt so right. They are both easy going, hardworking guys and we really felt a connection. The more we played out together, we realized we had something special together, so we decided to make it a permanent thing.
SF: What instruments do you play besides what is listed above?
Allan: I play accoustic (a Gibson J-45) and electric guitar(Gibson SG), and electric bass (Ibanez RG).
SF: When you write your songs, who contributes to them?
Allan: I'm the songwriter in the band. I love playing out and recording, but the thing that I get the most joy from is sitting down with guitar and pen and paper. That said, I strongly feel that Jeff and Dave, and what they add to the songs, clearly shapes the tunes and sometimes even takes them down paths I might not have seen when I wrote them. They really add a lot to the whole process.
SF: What inspires you to write your songs?
Allan: So many different things. Things I overhear people say, things me or my friends or family are going through and doing, people watching and imagining a back story for some stranger. I try to write about the little everyday things and as a rule stay away from trying to be profound or preachy.
SF: Who are your influences in music?
Allan: Growing up the Beatles were number 1. Neil Young and Tom Petty later in life became big influences. Ryan Adams really seems to never put out a bad album. Lucinda Williams has done some great work. Theres so many I like: Nick Drake, Cat Stevens, Fleetwood Mac, Jackson Browne, Elton John, Johnny Cash, Merle Haggard, really too many to list.
SF: If you could play on stage with anyone you choose, who would it be (living or not) and why?
Allan: That's a tough one. I guess living it would be Tom Petty because I really admire the way he's stayed true to his own voice, but at the same time evolved through the years. And dead.....it would be John Lennon, because while I'm never been one for hero worship, I like the artist's music, but not interested in getting autographs or such. He comes the closest to someone that I look up to as a hero, not just for the music, but for the way he lived his life, on his own terms. SF: Who is waiting for you at home when you come home?
Allan: My wife Mesa, she's my best friend in the whole world. And my daughter Liz, and son Ben, they're the most important people in the world to me. I wouldn't trade my life with them for any kind of success in music.
SF: Do you have a favorite place to play?
Allan: Without question, the Double Door Inn!! It's truly a legendary place. Nick and all the folks there are the finest kind of folks and I actually met my wife there, long ago when I was in college.
SF: Where do you want to see the band in the future?
Allan: Right now, we've had a lot of success here in Charlotte and we're starting to branch out to venues in Chapel Hill, Winston Salem and Asheville. So hopefully by the end of the year we'll be able to duplicate the success we've had here to those locations.
SF: Your music is really awesome. What is it you want the fans to get from it?
Allan: You know, I think some of the real heroes in this world are people just out there doing the ordinary things we all do, that are faced with everyday problems like we all are. And in the middle of this cynical world where sometimes things can seem almost hopeless, are still able to find hope, still able to do a good job raising kids, have a good marriage, go to work everyday. And so I try to write a lot about folks who, maybe have had a few setbacks and even gotten discouraged some, but keep getting up and finding hope out there.
SF: Will you be doing a video for any of your songs?
Allan: Actually we'll be doing an on-air perfomance on the local FoxNews Rising Morning Show in the next little bit (we're just working on a date we can all get off work to do it) and while they're not paying us, we do get a DVD of the show. So we'll be putting that on our MySpace page when that happens.
SF: Is there anything you would like to tell the readers that we didn’t cover?
Allan: I always debate telling people this, because some folks seem to think less of the album when they hear this, but I'm kinda proud of it. I did all 12 songs; guitar, bass and vocals in 8 hours, no more than 3 takes for any song. And no click track. Then Tom Eure added drums, and no more than 1 extra part to each song. Then we mixed it in about 4 hours. In the end we wanted it to stand on the strength of the songs and to sound more like some friends sitting on a porch playing for the love of it, than some slick product for the radio. So, I guess I'm kinda proud of that. The other thing would be how neat the internet has made it for the Indie artist, where you can use MySpace or Facebook for a web page, Gmail for a mailing list, book your own shows, record, mix and master and even do the artwork. Then make copies of a CD using a hard disk system, or software, sell it on the internet, really do it all yourself, and along the way keep costs down, learn a lot about different aspects of the music biz. And if you're lucky even get good folks like you, Susan, to interview you and review your CD.
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TEXAS HOLDEM UPDATE by “Wailin” Michael Weldon Osborn
Posted by admin on Thursday, January 31 @ 23:00:00 CST (104 reads)
Here’s what has been going on for us since our interview with Southern Fried Magazine last year.
We finally got band t-shirts and a short (6 song) CD and a live bootleg CD out as well. The live CD is me and a couple musicians who put together at the last minute. So it’s not actually a “Texas Holdem” CD, which makes it more amazing since I didn’t even know these guys till we took the stage at JJ’s world famous blues club in Santa Clara CA. I’m going to put the whole story on how that night came to be on the album sleeve. The recording is just a live bootleg. The club regularly records performances and they gave me a CD at the end of the night. When I listened to it the next day I thought, WOW, some of those tracks are pretty good. The challenge was the recording quality, so I kinda agonized over releasing this one, but in the end I decided to do it (after having it professionally mastered at a recording studio) and I hope everybody likes it. There’s ,I think, 10 tracks on it and we’ve started selling them for $10 at shows, soon I hope to put them for sale on the web site as well. There’s a number of new venues for us around the Bay area and Sacramento area that are now regular stops (see the website for gig info) and were hoping to play a lot more casinos and festivals in 08.
I got a chance to be a guest DJ on “The Bone” 107.7FM and hang with Steven Seaweed. That was awesome and it gave me a real publicity boost. A local TV show “Makin’ Music” did a show on me featuring a live television performance and the newspaper here where I live (Campbell) has expressed interest in doing a story on me.
Our website is up and running. You can see all our gig listings there, leave a comment, join the mailing list and buy merchandise.
Thanks and keep ROCKIN!!!
“Wailin” Michael Weldon Osborn
http://www.michaelosbornmusic.com/texasholdemband.html
http://www.myspace.com/wailinweldonosborn
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Interview with SwampdaWamp - Susan Snider
Posted by admin on Thursday, January 31 @ 23:00:00 CST (124 reads)
Gig Michaels: Lead Vocals, Guitar, and Songwriter
Gig is a passionate and talented songwriter and vocalist influenced by music icons like Led Zeppelin, Lynyrd Skynyrd and Joe Cocker. Producer Joe Boyland called some of Gig's lyrics "among the best songwriting that have ever come along." Early on, Gig wrote poetry and stories, and when he picked up guitar at age 16, Gig started writing original songs as an outlet to life's experiences. Based in North Carolina, he honed his song writing, guitar, and on-stage skills with the band he formed called Jeddidiah Train, a southern blues-influenced rock band. Gig then moved on to Nashville where he wrote and sang on the debut CD of Plain James, a band he formed with Yanni drummer Charlie Adams. He then returned to North Carolina and created the band SwampdaWamp with a slate of great new songs on their debut CD.
"Music to me is such an expression of life, be it good or be it bad. It has always been there for me and I think I am lucky to be able to translate my passion into a song. I have been touched or moved by so many artists and songs in so many ways I could only try to give something back. The band SwampdaWamp to me is like this: a bunch of very talented, friendly, humble, and way-too-funny musicians that have a very large time jamming and just want to do something good for the music loving world." --Gig Michaels
Marty Hill "The Goblet of Gibson": Lead Guitar
Marty is a gifted guitar player who can play with the best of them. He began playing guitar in Cabarrus County, North Carolina at age 10 and was working professionally by age 16. By combining the melodic harmonies of southern rock with the tones and rhythms of heavy metal, Marty soon developed a distinctive style and unique sound all his own, earning a well-deserved reputation as one of the Southeast's most promising young guitarists.
Early in his career, Marty worked regularly as a session guitarist for the top studios in Charlotte where he was featured on hundreds of nationally distributed karaoke songs. He then co-founded an all-original metal band called Phantom Park that enjoyed widespread regional success after the release of their critically acclaimed CD Freight Trained, which contained the popular single "Rainy Day." Phantom Park opened for artists such as Jefferson Starship and Steppenwolf.
After playing with the popular cover band SuperGlide, Marty found his musical soul mates in SwampdaWamp and his virtuoso guitar brought new passion to Gig's soulful compositions.
"When I met Gig and jammed on a couple of his tunes, I was floored to say the least. It's very rare to hook up with someone that shares the same spirit of emotion in music, but Gig and I are on the same page here. This band is unbelievable!!" -- Marty Hill
Michael Hough: Guitars, VocalsMichael started playing guitar at age 13 and soon joined The Creek, voted by the National Association of Campus Activities as the number one rock attraction on the east coast. The Creek were semi-finalists on the long running international talent competition Star Search.
Michael then collaborated with Jimi Ray in Age of Faith, which produced the highly successful Christian rock album Heart of the Young. Several popular singles made the charts and led to work with Giant founders Dann and David Huff, Steven Curtis Chapman, The Newsboys and more.
Returning to rock and roll, Michael co-founded the band Chyld with Steven Hayman and worked with David Lee in the studio. Next, Michael co-founded the popular band SuperGlide joining with Marty Hill on guitar. When SwampdaWamp went looking for another guitarist, Michael was a natural to join the family.
"I've done studio work with David and have been performing with Marty for the past several years. So SwampdaWamp is like a family reunion for me where I've found a few long lost cousins." --Michael Hough
Alan Huffman: Hammond B3 Keyboards Mike Alan Huffman, a.k.a. "Mike Magic" and "Sammy Fingers," began his musical life at age 12 playing the drums. By age 14, he was introduced in the Toledo music scene filling in for a drummer in a local classic rock band. He continued sitting in until he went to a drum clinic by Steve Smith.
Hammond B-3 organ sat on the side of the stage and Alan was irresistibly drawn to it. Soon afterwards, he taught himself to play piano and became the piano player for his high school jazz band. He eventually joined up with Josh Boyd and the VIP Band in Toledo, Ohio and placed First in the regional blues competition, which led to opening performances for national acts such as Grand Funk Railroad, Bad Company, and Cheap Trick.
When SwampdaWamp went looking for a new B-3 player, Alan impressed with his quick study, fast fingers, improve ability, and performance flair.
"Working with SwampdaWamp is one of the most righteous things that has ever happened to me. I feel as if I've known these cats forever. Good, tasty rock music is making a huge come back and I'm thrilled to be a part of that."
David Lee: Drums, Vocals
David was born to play drums. Even in pre-school, David wanted drums. He got piano lessons instead. In studying classical piano at a young age, David learned composition, chord structure, tempo, dynamics, and emotion. He finally got his first drum set at age 12 and before long mastered it. David began playing professionally after high school with various Charlotte bands like My Three Sons and Simon Sez, building on the lessons that made him a musician. Now, guided by his training, instinct, intuition, and destiny, David is SwampdaWamp's resident superhero.
"When I play, it's not about how many licks I can fit in, it's all about the song and what feels right for each one musically. Everything I've done my whole life has been for the music - for the song, and I wouldn't trade it for anything. It makes the people around me nuts because I obsess over the music so much, but that's the only way I'm happy. Sometimes you just know what you're supposed to do in life and I'm lucky enough to be doing It. “ -- David Lee
I have listened to this band’s music and am so impressed with them. I just had to contact them for an interview. The music is like none I have ever heard. It has a blues sound with a rock attitude. Their music leaves an impression on you and wanting to hear more. The CD is certainly bound to go gold. That is this reporters view. I'm sure others out there will agree. I highly recommend you to all get a copy, pop it in your CD player, kick back and be ready to be blown away. You're gonna hear some kick ass tunes. I cannot wait to see them perform live on stage. You can be sure I will be the one who cannot stay in my seat. I'll be up and dancing to the music. Of course as any listener, I have my favorite song or two that sets me on fire. "Miss Becky," "Sunday Southern Tradition," and "I'm Feeling Saturday." This band is definitely big time and going places. SF: Where were you born and raised?
Gig: I was actually born in Hartford, Connecticut. We moved to the Carolinas when I was about 7 years old, so I consider myself a Southern boy! SF: At what age did you first pick up your instrument?
Gig: I was influenced by my father at a young age as he used to sit around with the neighbor playing acoustic guitars singing stuff like old Waylon, Merle Haggard, etc. I was actually around 14 years old when I picked up the guitar and went on to learning by ear. I started writing my own songs as I learned how to play! I think that is how I developed a style, if you will.
SF: How long have you been playing professionally?
Gig: I have been playing professionally full time for last few years, with on again / off again jaunts over the past 20 years.
SF: Who are your influences?
Gig: Man my influences range from Led Zeppelin to Lynyrd Skynyrd. I keep fresh on the latest as well as the old and I think I get inspired from the same all the time. For me I like anything that is memorable or catchy. I dig Allman Brothers as well as Black Crowes and Train.
SF: How did you all get together?
Gig: As cliché as it might sound, my drummer David Lee responded to an ad Yes, an ad! Stranger things have happened! I don't usually do the ad thing because of all the people that are unqualified seem to respond! But David and I hooked up after a few conversations and whalla! We began auditioning the rest of the line up which has been through many changes before getting to this point, believe me it has been a 3 year long struggle to reach this point with the great line up we now have.
SF: Why is Southern music so popular to you?
Gig: I simply relate the most to the life style that exists in Southern Rock.
SF: Southern Rock is popular everywhere, from the East to the West Coast. Why do you think that is?
Gig: Well again, I believe Southern Rock translates a not only a life style but a culture. There are very few cultures left in America as huge corporations gobble it up making everything the same everywhere. People still hear Southern Rock as a free way of living, struggling and partying. That’s ho w I see it anyway.
SF: When you sit down to write a song, who all comes to the table?
Gig: Well I typically will bring in the basic structure for a tune and present it to the band and we all take it from there. The longer we are together the more we are expanding on the writing though. It is really a team effort and we all share the final results with our Producer, Joe Boyland. Joe has produced many great acts like Skynyrd, Bad Company, Rainbow, as well as Black Crowes DVD Freak n Roll among other many others. Working with Joe is a great experience for us all.
SF: Where do you get your inspiration when you write a song?
Gig: Usually out of a bottle of whiskey!!! LOL!! No really I do tend to lose myself into the reality of daily living when I write and a couple of drinks seems to let it flow out easily! I live with the problems of every day man just like we all do, I just have the ability to relate to it in song and I think people grab a hold of that. People relating to our music lyrically are the biggest reward in this for me. Touching people making them feel better about themselves or helping them to cope with struggles is my motivation.
SF: Who is waiting at home for you while you’re on the road?
Gig: My son. I have been a single dad for the last 7 years. He is the apple of my eye and always will be!
SF: If you had a chance to play with anyone, dead or living, who would that be and why?
Gig: Ronnie Van Zant. I think we would have written some big time hits together! I know I would have learned a lot from his style. Our manager tells us stories about working with him and his approach to writing is much the same as my own. To have written with or jammed with Ronnie would be huge to me.
SF: Do you have a favorite venue to play at and why?
Gig: You know, not really. Of course I dig the huge venues with thousands of people, there is no rush quite the same as that! But I also have a blast at smaller clubs where you are one to one from the stage and get to hang out with fans afterwards. That is just as cool in a different way!! SF: At what point did you realize that you wanted to play professionally?
Gig: I have always wanted to be a rock star!! From early on, didn’t we all! LOL!! I used to dream of traveling around in a tour bus, now we do! You could say that I'm living the dream! LOL!!
SF: What music do you listen to at home and in the car?
Gig: Mostly I listen to rough tracks from rehearsal! We are always trying to better ourselves. Other than that I jam on Nickelback, Zeppelin, Skynyrd, Hinder is cool, I like Buck Cherry. I think Incubus is in my truck player as we speak! In the home I listen to Sinatra at dinner, some Louis Armstrong, Zeppelin is in every player I have!! I dig Robert Cray at home as well as John Mayer. But again I dig all good music from any genre.
SF: Are you gonna make it to the West Coast, (please say yes)?
Gig: We are indeed!! We are getting a lot of play on the Crush in Santa Rosa which is leaning toward a station event performance in the near future!! We have enough radio support now to string together enough dates to play all the way there and back!!
SF: What would you like to tell the readers that I may not have covered here in the interview?
Gig: I would like to point out to the readers that it is people like you and your magazine that are huge in the success of bands like ours and to support your magazine for always. We thank you for the opportunity to be included in your publication!! I also want to encourage everyone to visit our websites swampdawamp.com and on myspace for free offerings of music and video as well as some very cool swamp gear!! Spreading the Swamp World Wide!
www.swampdawamp.com
www.myspace.com/swampdawamp
www.sonicbids.com/swampdawamp
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Michael Paul - Susan Snider
Posted by admin on Thursday, January 31 @ 23:00:00 CST (117 reads)
 You may see that Michael Paul has a article in Southern Fried as “The Michael Paul Band.” You're not seeing double. Michael also has a solo singing career and I had the opportunity to see him perform live at his CD Release Party. I have also seen him perform with the band. But this is about his solo career.
The CD release party was held at “The Rusty Porthole” in Bethal Island. Michael was already on stage playing and singing when we arrived. I must say his ability as a solo act is incredible. With each song he sang he would open by telling the audience who wrote the song and the situation that brought the song to life. Which by the way, his wife Tammy wrote a lot of. Very nice Tammy!!! The audience definitely loved him and his music.
I have had the chance to listen to the CD and I love it. The title of the CD is “It’s Cowboy Time.” And that it is. Down to earth songs with a meaning. I want to talk about three songs specifically.
1) "I Are An Angel”.... This song was written by Michael’s wife Tammy. She is a nurse and was taking care of a 4 year old that was dying. Tear jerker? YES.....this song is Tammy’s way of remembering a little girl that was so brave to the very end.
2) “Rocket Planes and Baseball” Michael wrote this when his first child was born. He sings about the things they will be doing such as, pillow fights, camp fire nights and seeing monkeys at the zoo. Hoping their good times never end. And how being a Dad ain’t half bad. It goes on to say how his little brother was born and it was twice the hugs and twice the fun. Very proud to be a father.
3) Then there is “It’s Harley Time”, which is the same as “It’s Country Time” but switched the Country to Harley. This was written for Tammy’s father who loves to ride. He sings about enjoying the open spaces, leathers and boots. He has a bike to ride and it’s Harley Time.
This CD is a must have for your collection. I love mine and listening to it while typing away on the computer or just relaxing, kicking back. Please check out the links below for information on Michael Paul and how you can get your CD and Shirt.
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Interview of Suzanne Gorman - Susan Snider
Posted by admin on Thursday, January 31 @ 23:00:00 CST (185 reads)
 Suzanne Gorman is the next singer to be coming out to hit both the adult contemporary and country genres. Her music has both pop and country appeal, with the same caliber of talent as top artist Shania Twain. Suzanne is a new artist that writes her own music with her first nationally distributed CD Open Book, released on September 19, 2006 highlights both her vocal abilities and her writing.
I have the pleasure of introducing you to a talented and beautiful songwriter/singer. Her name is Suzanne Gorman. I have gotten to know Suzanne in the past few weeks and find her charming, delightful and true to her fans. To Suzanne, when she looks out into the crowd of fans and see=s smiles on their face, she feels completely satisfied that what she is doing has touched each of them. Toes tapping, singing along, dancing, and hands clapping, these are all things that make her who she is. A caring, loving, and totally committed young woman that stands out in the crowd.
Her CD, Open Book, is full of music and songs that touch your heart. After listening to it, I find myself singing along after a while. Each song contains words of strength. Giving you the feeling you can accomplish anything. From You Gotta Believe to That's What Life's About. Her music gives you encouragement to keep on going. Her songs tell a story and what she believes in. Suzanne has a voice of Angel and belts out her music straight from the heart with both passion and conviction. She definitely should have her name in lights. I always ask myself, would I buy this CD or pay to see her? Yes, I would. She is fantastic and I hope to see Suzanne Gorman live on stage soon.
SF: Where were you born and raised? I was born in Cleveland, Ohio. I grew up in Cleveland and Detroit, Michigan and then moved to Philly and then lived in Switzerland for a year, as well. SF: At what age did you begin writing and playing? I started writing when I was around 7-ish. But it wasn't until later, after a terrible infection in my spine, that I had to do an about face with my life. I was riding horses and it was my passion from the time I was a child. I rode Dressage and my goal was to go to Worlds in Canada. It wasn't until I realized during my healing process that the guitar was a way to do therapy for my hand. I always was a creative writer but I never realized that by writing a song, with the melody in my head that I met me for the first time. I am so in love with songwriting that this is me and me must have been sitting on the steps somewhere just waiting for me to open my artistry up. I have been writing music now for about 10 years.
SF: Do you play any instruments?
I can play guitar a bit but I much rather use it as a tool to write with then play out. Because of what is left from the spinal infection I have a little trouble with my hand, being honest for me on those strings. So I don't trust it in the light of perfection. I let my guitarists play for me when I play live. They do a much better job of playing my songs for me.
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Interview of J.D. Steagall - Susan Snider
Posted by admin on Thursday, January 31 @ 23:00:00 CST (146 reads)
J.D. is one of the most down to earth people I have ever met. He loves what he does and not for the fame or the stardom. We all know music can soothe the soul and that is exactly what J.D. is about. Among his many accomplishments as a songwriter and musician. J.D. supports our troops by playing for them and has given thousands of CDs away to them. He has a generous heart and a kind soul. He wants his fans to leave his shows feeling good about the music and relating to it.
After a phone conversation with J.D., I learned so much more about the man. He is the real deal. He’s honest and has love and passion for what he does. He takes care of his family and that is his number ONE priority. Seems to me he fits right in with our Down South Jukin’ Family. He has played with many famous artists but doesn’t want to throw names out and make the readers think he is boasting about these entertainers. J.D. loves that one on one with his fans. He knows that they are why he is what he is today. He turns no one away for a chat or autograph.
I was sent three of his CDs and love them all. His music is a lot of Southern Rock with a bit of Country and mixed with a little Blues, too. He writes his own music with heart and passion. There is absolutely a song on his CD’s for everyone. If you listen to this CD and don=t find at least 5 songs that hit your between the eyes, it would surprise me. He has emotion and feelings in his music and writes of real life happenings. If you get the chance to see him perform...GO, I promise you won't be disappointed.
SF: Where were you born and raised? San Diego, CA. SF: At what age did you pick up your first instrument? I young about 7 or 8 SF: Ho w many instruments do you play? Bass |
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![[image]](http://i97.photobucket.com/albums/l224/Hootys/Simpleman%20Cruise%2008/SimplemanCruise2008-3025.jpg)
