On November 12^th, 2011, in Costa Mesa, California, blues musicians and fans came together for the third time in as many months to raise funds for one of their own, who has been afflicted with some severe medical problems. Over the previous few weeks, benefits in nearby Long Beach raised money for saxophone legend Joe Houston and drummer Paul Fasulo. On this rainy, Saturday afternoon it was Richard Duran aka Lynwood Slim who would be the beneficiary of the generosity of Southern California’s blues fans and musicians. At the end of a long day’s worth of music, Slim’s mom was presented with $6,300.

Slim Jam was one of the most memorable concert experiences in recent years. It was a virtual blues festival in a night club. The room was packed with musicians, some who were slated to play this afternoon, and others who just showed up to support the cause and enjoy the show. At times the musical alchemy was absolutely stunning as players were put into musical situations and contexts that were unique.

With the sheer amount of talent coming and going off the stage throughout the six hour extravaganza, I think two people in particular should be commended for helping to make the day a satisfying musical experience. Guitarist Kid Ramos managed the stage and was on his feet for most of the event. He played with many of the acts throughout the long day. MC Barry G kept the festivities running smoothly and helped make, what could have easily turned into a train wreck, a cohesive presentation. Additionally, the president of the Southern California Blues Society, Cadillac Zack should be commended as he made a $250 donation in behalf of that organization.  It was great to see members of San Diego’s blues society called Blues Lovers United of San Diego make the long drive in the rain all the way from San Diego to be part of this event.

Many folks deserve much credit for pitching in both their time and sweat equity to make this benefit a financial and artistic success. It isn’t credit that they seek, it is the reward that comes with doing the right thing. It is about the music and most importantly on this day it was about Slim.

The event affectionately entitled Slim Jam was an example of what the Southern California blues community has come to represent. On this day, it was a dark, damp and a cool afternoon everywhere else in Southern California. Inside the Tiki Bar however the light and warmth of charity, great music and hope filled the air. 

- David Mac

The following is a list of musicians who donated their time and talent to help make Slim Jam a success:

Al Blake, Henry Carvajal, Paulie Cerra ,Taryn Donath, Ron Dziubla, Ron Felton, Barry G, Norm Gonzalez, Tommy Harkenrider, Hook Herrera, Rick Holmstrom, Stephen Hodges, Richard Innes,  Troy Jennings, Fred Kaplan, Dave Kida, Jason Lozano, Janiva Magness, Johnny Main, Rod Piazza, Kid Ramos , San Pedro Slim, Larry Taylor, Jeff Turmes, Mike Turturro, Johnny Vaiu, Junior Watson and Kim Wilson

I probably don’t need to state the obvious and say a picture is worth a thousand words especially when it is the fine photography of Alex Gardner and Chris Corbett and my words. With that in mind, enjoy a photo essay of Slim Jam.

Barry G

Taryn Donath

Ron Felton

Tommy Harkenrider

Paulie Cerra, Troy Jennings & Johnny Viau

 Mike Turturro

Hook Herrera

Stephen Hodges

Junior Watson

Al Blake

Rick Holmstrom

 Ron Dziubla

Janiva Magness

Fred Kaplan

Kid Ramos

Kid Ramos & Al Blake
San Pedro Slim

Rick Holmstrom

Jeff Turmes

Tommy Harkenrider & Kid Ramos

Tommy Harkenrider, Ron Felton, Mike Turturro &  Taryn Donath

Paris Benefit - December 18th