On the Johnny Otis Obit

Your obit on Johnny Otis was the best I have read. You nailed it. I feel honored to have met this great man a few times over the years. Your story captured the essence of this complex and interesting man, Thank you. ~ Sharon, Sonoma, CA

Thank you so much for writing such a beautiful piece on my dear friend and mentor, Maestro Johnny Otis.  He was larger than life, a brilliant artist who gave us all so much joy and inspiration...always in every beat of my heart. ~ Myrna, San Francisco, CA

Really nice piece on Johnny Otis. It, however, fails to mention his recording work and release(s) for Alligator Records. ~ Skyy, Kankakee, IL

I just wanted you to know that I passed along your article on Johnny Otis to friends who were close to him and they were very complimentary! You did a lot of research and a very wonderful job! Much respect! Will you let me borrow it for the next issue of my next Golden Gate Blues Society New Letter? ~ Deb, Belmont, CA

DM: Of course Deb. I would be honored. I look forward to reading the rest of that fine publication.

On the Etta James Appreciation

LOVED the Etta piece! It was just a beautifully written piece and I, of course, love it that you get teary! The Gentle Giant, The Rough Tough Cream Puff. ~ Julie, San Diego, CA

Etta was a one of a kind talent and I thought you captured that brilliantly in your short piece on her.  Thank you. ~ Jeremy, Gainesville, FL

Reading the article you wrote about Etta was very cathartic for me. I have read it a half a dozen times and I cry every time. There was just something special about her. Thank you for sharing your personal thoughts on this huge talent.  ~ Amy, Redding, PA

On Kennan Shaw’s article on the Blues Music Awards

I am not a musician, but have friends who are and who have been nominated. I too have considered the merits of trying to present artistic endeavors as a competition. Somehow the very idea takes away the uniqueness of artistic expression. I have decided to hope and believe that there is an overall good that occurs, and that allows me to support the idea. I hope I'm not being too naive. Thanks for your thoughts, they stirred mine as well. ~ J.D., Los Angeles, CA

On the Namm Show Coverage & Photo Essay

I really enjoyed the photos on the NAMM show. The photo essays are great.  Keep em coming. ~ Josh, Manchester, NH

You can always count on DMAC to zig when others zag.  Your comments regarding NAMM felt right at home for this long time vendor. Either that trade show gets bigger or I am getting smaller. It is getting younger and I am getting older. It is getting faster and I am getting slower. I think you blew it though by revealing your third floor “hiding” place. ~ Marty, Durham, NC

What no photos essay of trade show hotties. You’re losing it Mac. Cancel my subscription. ~ Matt, West Memphis, AR