On George “Harmonica” Smith

I had the pleasure of playing with George and Rod Piazza in Cotati back in the mid 70's. Talk about Rockin' the House, “Inn of the Beginning” had a long bar and a long counter on the other side of the room, George got up on one side Rod got up on the other side. I guess you had to be there. It was absolutely unforgettable.p on the other and they both ripped and traded licks as they walked up and down a top of these platforms. Kind of a stage extentions guess you had to be there absolutely unforgettable... Also backed Jimmy Reed that night with Geno Skaggs as my partner in crime... Eddie Taylor was there with us I am a drummer and my bass playing partner Geno Skaggs got to back up Jimmy Reed that night. Eddie Taylor was there too. ~ Douglas Kennedy/ Blues Musician, San Ramon, CA

Nice article on George Smith. He was a great musician and mentor. I worked with him many times, onstage and off, and always found him to be ready to give his best in performance. He was kind, wise, generous, and an absolutely first-rate player. ~ Bernie Pearl/Blues Musician, Los Angeles, CA

George was a great musician and an even greater friend to me. Here's a tidbit for ya. George's sound check: 'More mic!' or 'Less mic!" ~ Doug MacLeod/Blues Musician, Los Angeles, CA

On The Royal Rhythmaires

Thanks for hippin’ me to this cool band. I live in Fort Worth and didn’t even know these cats were around. I enjoy the historical essays in BLUES JUNCTION but I also like the way you are able to find bands like this and give them the exposure they deserve. BTW their CD is the real deal! ~ Tammy, Fort Worth, TX

Still Batting a thousand Mac... I don’t know how you do it. The next time you write about a clunker will be the first. The Royal Rythmaires.... who knew? ~ Burt, Tallahassee, FL

Editor: Burt, How I do it.... I take a lot of pitches.

Absolutely the freshest thing I've heard in ages. I’m already sharing this with all my music friends. ~ Michael, Nashville, TN

On Blues with a Mission

Thanks for writing about this. These are the kind of stories that need to be told more often. I hope to see you out there next Thanksgiving Dave. ~ Pete, Wilmington, CA

We've been there with a few holidays over the years. It’s the best feeling in the world giving back and seeing the smiles and feeling the love. ~ Kat, Chino Hills, CA

Editor: Pete, All thanks go to Alex Gardner. Not only did he bring these bi-annual events to my attention. He wrote the piece and took the photos. I will be there next Thanksgiving and Easter. I can’t think of a better way to spend the day.

On The World Class Blues in the O.C.

I love these shows. I missed the May show. Thursday nights don’t work for me but the Sunday afternoons....yea baby. Bring It. Whatcha got cookin’ for June? ~ Stephanie, Glendale, CA

Editor: Sunday June 24^th @ 2pm / The Return of Lynwood Slim and Friends. See the poster under the tab that reads, World Class Blues in the O.C. Coming Attractions Stephanie and I’ll see you there. 

On the Big Love - A Benefit for Candye Kane

Great write up, Dave and pictures! Lotsa BIG LOVE for our Girl! ~ Angie, Fullerton,CA