NEW BOOK FROM THE HISTORY PRESS:

HIDDEN HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI BLUES

AN ENTERTAINING JOURNEY TO THE CROSSROADS OF AMERICAN MUSIC BY ROGER STOLLE WITH PHOTOGRAPHY BY LOU BOPP, AND A FORWARD BY JEFF KONKEL

FEBRUARY 14, 2011 (Clarksdale, Mississippi) -- As the world celebrates the 100th birthday of Mississippi Delta blues legend Robert Johnson this spring, a new book about the blues genre and the land where it was born is set for release. 

Hidden History of Mississippi Blues by Roger Stolle (published by The History Press, April 2011), begins and ends in the land of cotton and juke joints -- the land that introduced the world to Robert Johnson, Muddy Waters, B.B. King and so many others.

"Hidden History of Mississippi Blues is an overview of the music's earliest days, height of popularity and current state of things," explained author Stolle, adding, "One 'hidden' aspect of Mississippi blues is that in addition to the past history, there is much that's still present. Mississippi blues survives just under the radar in the juke joints and house parties of the Delta. It occasionally sticks its head out and gets on TV or goes on tour, but even then, it is such an archaic art form that many of the uninitiated aren't really sure what to do with it once they've experienced it. You need to either find it where it still lives naturally or have a tour guide to help you make a virtual journey. This book attempts to do a bit of both.

"If anyone would know about blues in Mississippi, it would likely be Stolle. For most of the past decade, he has called Clarksdale, Mississippi -- the heart of the blues Delta -- his home. Owner of the Cat Head Delta Blues & Folk Art store there, Stolle also books Mississippi blues acts for major clubs and festivals in the region, contributes to radio shows like XM/Sirius' Bluesville, writes for magazines like Blues Revue , and produces indie blues films and albums.

The book came about after months of conversation and a bit of a search, according to Will McKay, the commissioning editor for the project.

At The History Press, we had been talking about publishing a volume on Mississippi blues for some time," said McKay. "With a book of this scope and magnitude, we really felt like it required an author with just the right voice and background to make it work. We wanted to try to cover a massively important and influential genre in just one book, and we wanted it to be immediately accessible to a mainstream audience. So, we were thrilled when Roger agreed to come on board."

Telling the Mississippi blues story through important historical happenings, fascinating (sometimes humorous) interviews, and personal anecdotes, Stolle weaves together an addictive story that could only come from a land as rich in history and mystery as the cotton-fueled Delta. 

"There's a reason why rock musicians from the Rolling Stones to Jack White love the blues and continue to go back to the well for inspiration time and time again," said Stolle. "It is the foundation, the dictionary. It is the root of all modern, popular music. A lot of younger rock, rap, R&B and soul musicians these days don't even realize that their sounds and stage shows have been informed by the blues." 

Hidden History of Mississippi Blues begins with Stolle's own personal journey from Midwestern white suburbia and big-city corporate America to a fascinating foreign land so close to home -- the Mississippi Delta. Then, through both ancient and recent history, it tells the compelling story of the blues -- sometimes in Stolle's own voice, other times in the words of the men who were there and lived to tell about it. 

To enhance this story, McKay and Stolle also invited another contributor into the loop -- photographer and blues fan, Lou Bopp of St. Louis.

When Will asked if I knew any good blues photographers, I told him I knew several," recalled Stolle. "But the more we talked about the project, we decided that we wanted to feature photos of Mississippi's living blues, not just archival shots. I met Lou in a juke joint when he was documenting just that -- living blues -- so he seemed like a natural. His photos capture both the musicians and the environment in which they thrive."

Over forty photographs -- some black and white, some color -- help to put a face on Hidden History of Mississippi Blues. From the withered stare of an 83-year-old blues veteran to the playful expressions of a 27-year-old juke joint prodigy, Bopp's photos add texture and life to an already engaging story.

Blues music producer Jeff Konkel of St. Louis-based Broke & Hungry Records contributed a Forward to the book as well -- providing yet another experienced voice to the project.

Placed together, the words and photos of Hidden History of Mississippi Blues bring a music, history and people to the printed page in a purposely intimate way -- leaving readers rooting for the bluesmen and pondering the future of the music. 

Hidden History of Mississippi Blues will be available at book stores nationwide beginning in April. The book will also be available via The History Press web site at www.historypress.net, where it will be available for pre-order shortly. 

Roger Stolle and Lou Bopp will hold their first book signing event at Cat Head Delta Blues & Folk Art (www.cathead.biz) in Clarksdale, Mississippi, on April 15th -- also the weekend of the Juke Joint Festival (www.jukejointfestival.com).

(Cover art and description from back cover, courtesy The History Press)

STAY AT THE CLARK HOUSE RESIDENTIAL INN IN HISTORIC CLARKSDALE, MISSISSIPPI

THE CLARK HOUSE RESIDENTIAL INN -- AFFORDABLE COMFORT AND CONVENIENCE IN CLARKSDALE, MISS.

The Clark House is your comfortable alternative to motels. Located in the beautiful residential section of the Clarksdale Historic District -- just three blocks from the center of downtown's government, business and entertainment center. Rooms from $75, each with private bath, desk and sitting area, including internet access and continental breakfast.

Originally constructed in 1859 by Clarksdale founder John Clark. It was the first home built in Clarksdale, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Clark House has just been extensively refurbished and beautifully redecorated as a residential inn.

Reservations can be made online at http://www.clarkhouse.info or by calling the Innkeeper at 662-621-1632.

CLICK HERE for official web site

'THE LOFTS AT THE FIVE & DIME' LUXURY CONDOS IN CLARKSDALE, MISSISSIPPI

THE LOFTS AT THE FIVE & DIME ARE OPEN FOR BUSINESS

The newest place to stay in downtown Clarksdale, Mississippi, is also one of the most luxurious and updated -- with master suites, full kitchens, wi-fi, flat screen TVs (w/cable and DVD player) and much more. Check out the room photos at www.fiveanddimelofts.com. Then, plan to make the most of your next Delta visit.

VISIT THE WORLD-FAMOUS 'DELTA BLUES MUSEUM' IN CLARKSDALE, MISSISSIPPI...

RECENT NEWS FROM THE MUSEUM:  Acclaimed author and master guitar teacher Scott Ainslie presented a workshop on the music of Robert Johnson at the Delta Blues Museum on February 12th. The workshop was free. Ainslie is the author of Robert Johnson/At The Crossroads, which features transcriptions, history, and annotated lyrics from Johnson's famous solo blues recordings of 1936-37. He is an experienced teacher and musician who has released an instructional DVD on Johnson's music available through Starlicks Master Sessions.

NEWER EXHIBITS INCLUDE:  The Museum installed an exhibit in honor of "Tater, the Music Maker" (Foster Wiley), who died in Sept. "Mr. Tater" was a longtime living landmark in Clarksdale, whose ever-present smile and blues entertained visitors and residents alike. On display: his guitar, his bicycle and a photograph taken by Panny Mayfield. Thanks to John Ruskey for assistance with exhibit.  ALSO, new to the museum... flash cowgirl boots worn by blueswoman Jesse Mae Hemphill, a National Steel guitar of the type played by Son House, a 1930s-era Wurlitzer jukebox... and more.  Drop by to the Delta Blues Museum, and ask director Shelley Ritter, "What's new?"

WINTER HOURS CURRENTLY IN EFFECT:   On November 1st, the Delta Blues Museum began its "winter hours". Hours of operation: 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Monday - Saturday. 

JOIN E-LIST DELTA BLUES MUSEUM:  Go to http://visitor.r20.constantcontact.com/manage/optin/ea?v=001_vy7Mr9Zh8zqQsm3pti35A%3D%3D

CLICK HERE for Delta Blues Museum web site

Delta Blues Museum

1 Blues Alley, Clarksdale, MS

662-627-6820

www.deltabluesmuseum.org

'ROCK & BLUES MUSEUM' NEWS FROM CLARKSDALE, MISS.

THEO AND CINDY'S JAM-PACKED 'ROCK & BLUES MUSEUM' in Clarksdale, Mississippi, at 113 E. 2nd Street, is full of great music memorabilia from the 1920's through the 1970's.  Follow the evolution of America's music from blues, R&B, and rockabilly to rock 'n roll and soul and see how it influenced people all over the globe. Don't miss it...

NEW WINTER HOURS FOR THE MUSEUM:  Open Saturdays 11 am to 5 pm.  (The museum will be CLOSED from February 10 through 23.  We will resume our Saturday openings on Saturday, February 26; Sundays, Mondays, and other week days by appointment.

TOUR AND BUS GROUPS WELCOME (CALL FIRST):  Contact Theo Dasbach at 901-605-8662 for reservations.  Live music available.

NEW/RECENT EXHIBITS

at the Rock & Blues Museum include a barber chair and sink from Clarksdale's legendary Wade Walton, "The Blues Singing Barber" -- recorded for Paul Oliver ("Conversations with the Blues" book) and had songs released by Bluesville, Arhoolie and Rooster record labels.

ROCK & BLUES MUSEUM

113 East 2nd Steet

Clarksdale, Mississippi 38614

blues2rock.com

MAKE YOUR NEXT PROJECT EVEN BIGGER WITH MARKETING

BY 'CAT HEAD PROMOTIONS'

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR NEXT IMPORTANT PROJECT:

Cat Head Promotions is available to make your next blues, music, marketing or tourism project successful. Roger Stolle is available to assist in the areas of:

• PR/marketing (print/web ads; press releases; posters; logos)

• journalism/liner notes (magazines, recordings, films)

• project consultation (tour groups; festival; documentaries)

• music/film production (project managment; artist liaison)

• blues retail (product development; sales assistance)

• artist bookings (select festival and special project bookings)

• and more

CLICK HERE for more information at http://www.cathead.biz/StolleServices.html

MUSIC INDUSTRY CREDENTIALS:

• Keeping The Blues Alive Award recipient (Blues Foundation)

• Blues Music Award recipient (Blues Foundation)

• Founder Cat Head store

• Founder Cat Head Presents recording label

• Co-founder Juke Joint Festival and Clarksdale Film Festival

• Board member Clarksdale Downtown Development Assoc.

• Board member GrowDelta Advisory Board

• Partner in Three Forks Music

• Blues Foundation member

PAST CLIENTS INCLUDE:

Soul Survivors Festival, Rootsway Festival, Juke Joint Festival, Jon Gindick's Harmonica Jam Camp, Wing Dang Doodle Festival, Clarksdale Film Festival, NorthernBlues Music, songwriter Odie Blackmon, Mississippi-Lousiana Tourism Summit, Mississippi Blues Commission / Mississippi Blues Trail, The Loft at Hopson Commissary, The Clark House Residential Inn, Lofts at the Five & Dime, Delta Cotton Company Apartments, Matt The Scat Records, Roots & Blues Foundation, Pharr Brothers Advertising, Ferriday Songfest, and others.

CLARKSDALE 'PRESS REGISTER' NEWS -- BLUES AND MORE

READ MORE OR SUBSCRIBE AT PRESSREGISTER.COM...

Clarksdale, Mississippi's Press Register newspaper recently hired a terrific new publisher, Matthew Killebrew.  Thanks to Matthew, the paper has been featuring even more positive, informative articles about recent and upcoming events... and other news of both local and tourist interest.  The Press Register web site is also being updated even more quickly with the week's content -- including info of blues interest.  Here are some samplings of recent articles (via links).  Consider subscribing to the paper and supporting their efforts to tell the world about our vibrant Clarksdale community -- go to http://www.pressregister.com/our_newspaper/home_delivery/

CLARKSDALE FILM FESTIVAL ARTICLES:

- "Raiders of the Lost Art: Adaptation" - http://www.pressregister.com/articles/2011/01/26/news/doc4d3f4f10821a6108836583.txt

- "Prom Night in Mississippi" - http://www.pressregister.com/articles/2011/01/28/news/doc4d41d323cc723177859278.txt

- "The Best that Never Was" - http://www.pressregister.com/articles/2011/01/28/news/doc4d41d95ed09e0234026578.txt

- Awards are announced - http://www.pressregister.com/articles/2011/02/09/news/doc4d51590f14e09657711962.txt

OTHER RECENT PRESS REGISTER 'BLUES' ARTICLES:

-Helena festival brings blues fans flocking to Clarksdale (see photo above, courtesy of Press Register) - http://www.pressregister.com/articles/2010/10/13/news/doc4cb4c66846b96804093238.txt

- Oxford firm wins bid for expansion of Delta Blues Museum - http://www.pressregister.com/articles/2010/11/12/news/doc4cdc7074405c9954237367.txt

- Mr. Tater honored in weekend event - http://www.pressregister.com/articles/2010/11/25/news/doc4ced1d007e4eb339605151.txt

TOURISM CONTINUES TO GROW IN CLARKSDALE AREA:

Tourism numbers continue to climb, by Larry Binz (The Press Register) - Friday, November 19, 2010 -- The Coahoma County Tourism Commission saw an 11 percent increase in revenue from the tourism taxes collected  in fiscal year 2010 compared with the previous year, says chairman Wayne Winter. “We received about $350,000 during (FY) 2010 compared to $314,912 during 2009,” Winter told the Clarksdale Exchange Club Wednesday. Winter pointed out that a one percent sales tax is collected on prepared food and two percent tax from hotels and motels.  Beds and breakfast establishments are not covered under that system. The commission ended FY 2009 with a net balance of $1.76 million. From that revenue the commission is obligated to pay the annual debt services on the Coahoma County Expo Center and the Clarksdale Depot, Winter said. The Juke Joint Festival held in April has become a major tourist event as well as the Sunflower River Blues and Gospel Festival in August, Winter said. “We had visitors from 44 states, 19 foreign countries and 51 Mississippi counties outside of our own Coahoma County for the Juke Joint Festival this past spring,” Winter said. Winter noted that the commission has memberships with several entities including the Tennessee Motorcoach, American Bus Association, United States Tourism Association and the Southeast Tourism Society.

CLICK HERE for more stories

INAUGURAL 2011 'CLARKSDALE FILM FESTIVAL' A SUCCESS

CLARKSDALE FILM FESTIVAL HONORS ARE AWARDED; SUCCESSFUL EVENT TO BECOME AN ANNUAL HAPPENING:  Just a week after the successful launch of the new Clarksdale Film Festival in Clarksdale, Mississippi, its organizers have announced the event's award winners and pledged to make the happening an annual one.

"It was an amazing weekend, and we just want to thank everyone who attended, sponsored or volunteered for the festival," said Nan Hughes, co-organizer of the Clarksdale Film Festival and president of Clarksdale Downtown Development Association. "We especially want to acknowledge all of the talented filmmakers who submitted movies for our inaugural event."

Out of the over two dozen films screened, five were singled out with Clarksdale Film Festival honors last week by organizers:

- Best Southern Documentary Award - Prom Night In Mississippi

(Paul Saltzman, Patricia Aquino)

- Audience Choice Award - The Best That Never Was

(Jonathan Hock)

- Best Blues & Roots Music Film Award - The Blues

(Robert Gibbons)

- Made in Mississippi Award - Raiders of the Lost Art: Adaptation

(Eric Zala, Chris Strompolos)

- Best Film Short Award - Barefoot Workshops: Clarksdale Retrospective

(Chandler Griffin)

The filmmakers involved were understandably appreciative of both the awards and the event itself.

"We're honored," said Philip A. Aromando, producer of The Best That Never Was. "Nothing but high praise for the festival and everyone involved."

"An award from the community where the films were made means everything to us," added Chandler Griffin, founder of Barefoot Workshops.

According to festival organizers, finalizing the awards was a challenging process.

"There were so many great films that we really wish we could have given everyone an award," explained Roger Stolle, co-organizer of the event and owner of Cat Head Delta Blues & Folk Art in Clarksdale. "One of the comments we heard over and over during the event was how wonderful the line-up was. We were very fortunate to be able to showcase so much Southern talent and quality work -- especially since most of it had direct Mississippi connections."

Held at historic Delta Cinemas and a handful of more casual venues around town, the Clarksdale Film Festival brought in filmmakers and stars from as far away as Toronto, New York City and Los Angeles to introduce their movies and answer attendee questions. The event also attracted a larger than expected crowd, guaranteeing a followup event next year.

"The dates of next year's Clarksdale Film Festival will be January 26-29," according Stolle. "The enthusiasm of attendees and filmmakers alike has ensured that this will become an annual event. Hopefully, we can make the event bigger and bigger each year just like we have with our Juke Joint Festival."

Juke Joint Festival & Related Events is the Clarkdale Downtown Development Associations' other annual event in downtown Clarksdale. This year's dates are April 15-17 with the Juke Joint Festival itself on that Saturday, April 16th.

"We hope that everyone who attended our film festival will come back for our 'half blues festival, half small-town fair and all about the Delta' event in April," added Goldie Hirsberg, another of the two festival's organizers. "If you liked the film festival, then you'll love our blues festival."

Clarksdale Film Festival attendees got a taste of Juke Joint

Festival's coming offerings with live blues by Cadillac John, Bill Abel and Sean Appel each evening in the Delta Cinemas lobby.  Additionally, Red's Lounge, Bluesberry Cafe, Ground Zero Blues Club and others featured live blues most nights of the film fest.

The web site for both the Clarksdale Film Festival and Juke Joint Festival & Related Events is www.jukejointfestival.com.

THANKS TO EVERYONE WHO ATTENDED, VOLUNTEERED, PERFORMED AND... OH YEAH... SUBMITTED FINE, FINE FILMS!  See y'all in April for Juke Fest and next January for Film Fest.

HERE'S A NICE UNSOLICITED REVIEW (W/PHOTOS) OF THE CLARKSDALE FILM FEST FROM FRIENDLY TOURIST ATTENDEES:

http://ontheroadphoto.blogspot.com/2011/02/first-annual-clarksdale-mississippi.html THANKS to Joe and Dottie for the kind words.

DON'T MISS YOUR CHANCE TO CATCH DELTA-RAISED BLUES LEGEND BIG GEORGE BROCK

BIG GEORGE BROCK HAS DONE A LOT IN 78 YEARS...

Big George was born in Grenada, Mississippi, but grew up just outside Clarksdale on Flower's Plantation where he picked cotton, drove a tractor, played blues and boxed (see photo).  In the early fifties, he started living most of the time in St. Louis, where he ultimately bought a house in 1960 or '61 (through his half-brother, ball player Lou Brock, by the way).  While staying in St. Louis in the early '50s, he fought just parolled, up-and-coming boxer Sonny Liston (yep, the guy who Cassius Clay would later fight) and WON in an amateur bout at the gym where both were training.  After some bad experiences, Brock left boxing to concentrate on blues, opening a series of blues clubs, the largest of which was the infamous Club Caravan where his second wife was horribly murdered one night.  Brock continued with occasional clubs after Caravan closed around 1970, but eventually, he settled on just playing the blues, not running clubs and such.  In-between gigs, Brock married 3 times and fathered 42 kids -- including mutiple sets of twins and triplets.  Since his acclaimed comeback album (appropriately named "Club Caravan") was released in 2005, Brock has toured the world, appeared on TV and in films, and recorded two follow-up CDs for the Cat Head label.  He and his magnificent Blues Bus will return to Hopson Commissary and Cat Head store on April 16 and 17, respectively, for this year's 8th annual Juke Joint Festival.  (Brock is related to two other Juke Fest performers, by the way: Big Jack Johnson and Super Chikan.)  Don't miss your chance to see a true blues legend who has shared stage or studio with the likes of Muddy Waters, Howlin' Wolf, Jimmy Reed, Albert King, Watermelon Slim, Jimbo Mathus, Steven Seagal, Hubert Sumlin and many more.  He's changed his hair styles (see photo above) but never changed his 1950s hard blues style!

(Click to hear one of Big George's signature songs... about the blues and your friendly, neighborhood Cat Head store!)

BLUES FOUNDATION NEWS FROM MEMPHIS TO THE WORLD: IBC WINNERS & BMA NOMINEES

BIGGEST INTERNATIONAL BLUES CHALLENGE (IBC) EVER; 2011 WINNERS ANNOUNCED BY THE BLUES FOUNDATION...

The winners of the band competition for 27th IBC are:

 1st Place: The Lionel Young Band (Colorado Blues Society) 2nd Place: The Mary Bridget Davies Group (Kansas City Blues Society) 3rd Place: Rob Blaine's Big Otis Blues (Windy City Blues Society)

2011 BLUES MUSIC AWARD (BMA) EVENT COMING TO MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE ON MAY 5, 2011; BMA NOMINEES LISTED BELOW...

SUPPORT 'MUSIC MAKER RELIEF FOUNDATION'... AND THE BLUES

"As always, your donation to Music Maker's Annual Fund will support forgotten musicians while strengthening our culture. You can enrich thousands by giving voice to one musician through Music Maker! " -- Tim Duffy.

Read MMRF's fall newsletter and donate today at:

www.musicmakerstore.org

ALSO NOTE: Cat Head carries many of Music Maker's wonderful CDs -- old, new, men, women.  All good stuff!  Stop by and see.

CLICK TO SEE video of Adolphus Bell, one-man band

SAMPLING OF THE LIVE BLUES COMING UP SOON DOWN IN THE MISSISSIPPI DELTA:

FOR A COMPLETE LISTING, GO TO WWW.

CATHEAD.BIZ  The listing below is merely a sampling of the festivals, gigs and marker dedications listed at http://www.cathead.biz/livemusic.html.

MISSISSIPPI BLUES TRAIL & COUNTRY MUSIC TRAIL MARKER DEDICATIONS:

www.msbluestrail.org

- Wed., Feb 16, 2011 - John Lee Hooker, Vance, MS

- Fri., Feb 18, 2011 - Bud Scott, Natchez, MS

- Thurs., March 3, 2011 - Little Junior Parker, Bobo, MS

- Fri., March 11, 2011 - Tammy Wyonette, Tremont, MS

- Thurs., April 7, 2011 - Laurel Musicians, Laurel, MS

- Fri., April 15, 2011 - Wade Walton Barbershop, Clarksdale, MS -- as part of Juke Joint Festival & Related Events!

- Fri., April 29, 2011 - Ealey Brothers, Natchez, MS

BLUES, JUKE AND OTHER HAPPENINGS (sample):

Ground Zero Blues Club

Clarksdale, MS, http://www.groundzerobluesclub.com

Live blues weekly - Wed thru Sat, including:

2/16 - Hambone Blues Band

2/17 - BLUES JAM w/Heather Cross

2/18 - All Night Long Blues Band

2/19 - Terry "Big T" Williams & the Family Blues Band

2/23 - Bill "Howl-N-Madd" Perry

2/24 - BLUES JAM w/Sean Appel

2/25 - Terry "Harmonica" Bean Blues Band

2/26 - Stan Street & Hambone Blues Band

Red's Lounge juke joint

Clarksdale, MS (395 Sunflower Ave.)

Live blues on weekends, including:

2/18-19 (Fri-Sat) - live blues w/Robert "Wolfman" Belfour and more!

2/20 (Sun) - special live blues night (tba)

Hopson Commissary

Clarksdale, MS, http://www.hopsonplantation.com

(also home of "Loft at Hopson" accommodations)

Monday nights: Music with Ronnie & complimentary hor'dourves!

2/19 - Marlin and Earl's Birthday Party w/TCB Motown Band (free)

2/26 - Willy Waggs (country music)

Bluesberry Cafe

Clarksdale, MS (662-627-7008)

Live blues w/Sean "Bad" Apple every Monday night -- which is also tasty and affordable "Spaghetti Night" at the Bluesberry!

Hambone Gallery

Clarksdale, MS, http://www.stanstreet.com

Live music (usually blues) every Tuesday, 7pm

Madidi Restaurant

Clarksdale, MS, http://www.madidres.com

Live blues music Wednesdays in bar, 6-8pm

Rust Restaurant

Clarksdale, MS (662-624-4784)

Live music (often blues) every Thursday (and occasional Saturdays) on the porch (7pm).

Tricia's Italian Restaurant & Blues Club

Clarksdale, MS (226 Yazoo Ave.)

Blues club/restaurant for sale (contact Middleton Realty).

Juke Joint Chapel at the Shackup Inn

Clarksdale, MS, http://www.shackupinn.com

TBA

Po Monkey's Lounge

near Merigold, MS (directions at bottom of Live Music web page, http://www.cathead.biz/livemusic.html)

Thursday nights feature soul-blues deejay

The Senator's Place

Cleveland, MS (1028 S. Davis, Hwy 61)

Soul food/blues restaurant with live blues every Friday night, 7:30pm

Walnut Street Blues Bar

Greenville, MS (128 S. Walnut St., downtown)

Music (usually blues) on weekends.

Rooster's Blues House

Oxford, MS

(114 Courthouse Square)

Tuesdays - Open mic.

Wed-Sat - Live music (blues on weekends).

308 Blues Club

Indianola, MS, http://www.308bluesclubandcafe.com

Music on weekends.

BB King Museum

Indianola, MS, http://www.bbkingmuseum.org

2/17 & 2/24 - "Tune into Black History Series" w/choir performances every Thursday night in Feb (7pm).

2/19 - screening of "Do No Harm" film with director/producer Rebecca Schanberg, 4pm.

2/25 - Brown Bag Luncheon w/Dr. Leslie McLemore and Dr. Michelle Deardorff of the Fannie Lou Hamer Institute at Jackson State U., 12 noon.

930 Blues Cafe

Jackson, MS, http://www.jesdablues.com

Thurs-Sat - live blues/soul weekly.

F Jones Corner

Farish Street in Jackson, MS, http://www.fjonescorner.com

Live blues weekly.

Now thru 3/5 - Barefoot Workshops

"Documenting the Mississippi Delta"

Clarksdale, Mississippi, http://www.barefootworkshops.org

Chandler Griffin and his Barefoot Workshops team return to historic Clarksdale, Mississippi, for a month of amazing workshops in the Land Where Blues Began.

February 13th - February 26th, 2011

2-Week Documenting The Mississippi Delta

Instructor: Chandler Griffin & The Barefoot Team

February 27th - March 5th, 2011

1-Week Editing In The Mississippi Delta

Instructor: Tyler Hubby (Editor, "The Devil & Daniel Johnston")

For more information, please contact us at info@barefootworkshops.org.

2/17 (6-9pm) - The Gordon Gallery

Clarksdale, MS

New art opening featuring Rick Anderson and Lacy Barger. Info: www.thegordongalleryonline.com

2/24-25 - "Blues Today: A Living Blues Symposium"

University of Mississippi (Ole Miss), Oxford, MS

Annual blues symposium will feature an address by Jim O'Neal, interview with Poonanny, Blues Tourism panel discussion and more. Info at www.livingblues.com

2/24-27 - Natchez Literary & Cinema Celebration

Natchez Convention Center, Natchez, MS

www.colin.edu/nlcc

Theme: "Fields of Dreams: Sports in the South." Speakers, workshops, films and more. Information on web site.

SELECT 2011-2012 FESTIVAL DATES IN CLARKSDALE, MISSISSIPPI AND VICINITY:

• 4/15-17, 2011 - Juke Joint Festival & Related Events, Clarksdale, MS.

• 4/17, 2011 - Cat Head Mini Blues Fest I, Clarksdale, MS.

• 5/7, 2011 - Clarksdale Caravan Music Fest, Clarksdale, MS.

• 8/12-14, 2011 - Sunflower River Blues & Gospel Festival, Clarksdale, MS.

• 8/14, 2011 - Cat Head Mini Blues Fest II, Clarksdale, MS.

• 10/6-8, 2011 - King Biscuit Blues Festival, Helena, AR.

• 10/9, 2011 - Cat Head Mini Blues Fest III, Clarksdale, MS.

• 10/9, 2011 - Pinetop Perkins Homecoming at Hopson, Clarksdale, MS.

• 10/29, 2011 - Hambone Festival, Clarksdale, MS.

• 12/31, 2011 New Year's Weekend in Clarksdale - Live blues at Ground Zero Blues Club, Red's Lounge, Hopson & more!

• 1/26-29, 2012 - Clarksdale Film Festival - Blues films, history tours, music & more! (info: www.jukejointfestival.com)

• 4/14-16, 2012 - Juke Joint Festival & Related Events, Clarksdale, MS (info: www.jukejointfestival.com).

****Make a note of these dates, and book your hotel rooms now!****

CLICK FOR LIVE BLUES UPDATES on the Cat Head music calendar at http://www.cathead.biz/livemusic.html

XM / SIRIUS RADIO LISTENERS... "CATCH WEEKLY DELTA BLUES REPORT!"

BILL WAX OF BB KING'S BLUESVILLE ON XM/SIRIUS RADIO CALLS CAT HEAD ON THURSDAYS TO TALK BLUES

Have XM or Sirius Radio (or know a friend with it)?  Then, please tune in most Thursday afternoons (4pm Central/5pm Eastern) for the Cat Head Delta Blues report with Roger Stolle and Bill Wax.  Bill basically calls me at Cat Head most Thursdays, and we chat about blues shows, characters and related activities coming up... down in the Delta.  Mississippi blues news you can use!  Keep up to date on your favorite Mississippi blues players, juke joints, music festivals and so much more.  Don't have satellite radio yet?  Check it out at the link below:

Sirius / XM Radio (click)

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY FROM CAT HEAD STORE IN

CLARKSDALE, MISSISSIPPI...

(PHOTO: Sadie the Blues Pug models a Cat Head cap for y'all...)

Hi y'all!  Welcome to another sporadic edition of the infamous CAT HEAD UPDATE: The Mississippi Blues Newsletter -- "all the blues that's fit to print."

CAT HEAD'S BEEN BUSY SINCE LAST NEWSLETTER

Events in Clarksdale, Indianola, Jackson, Helena (AR), Memphis (TN) and even Lima (OH) have kept things lively -- fall through the holidays and into the depths of winter.  Read on for info and updates on what all's been going on -- from the final Cat Head Mini Blues Fest of 2010 to the recent Clarksdale Film Festival.

MAKING PLANS FOR SPRING FESTS & DELTA JOURNEYS?

Now is the time (or maybe it's even a little late?) to plan for your (next/first?) Delta blues pilgrimage.  Big festivals are coming if that's your thing -- starting with Juke Joint Festival (see below) -- or, if you prefer to see/hear the sights/sounds on a quieter weekend, then consider spending Spring Break in Clarksdale or a non-event weekend at Red's, Ground Zero, Cat Head, the museums here, etc.  THREE PIECES OF ADVICE:  First, if you are coming for an event, book your hotel rooms immediately since event weekends book up way early (http://www.cathead.biz/guide.html has accommodations list).  Second, if you want to hear live blues music during your visit, make it on a weekend -- Fri and Sat are best; Clarksdale does offer live music Mon-Sat now, but to have multiple options, you really need to make it a weekend; keep in mind, though, that most businesses are closed on Sundays.  Finally, take a little time to do some web research (http://www.cathead.biz/livemusic.html , http://www.msbluestrail.org , for example) as wel as perhaps pick up a Delta blues guide book such as "Memphis & the Delta Blues Trail" or "Blues Traveling" (and a Mississippi Atlas) prior to hitting the road; such measures will ensure a richer blues experience and keep y'all from spending all your time searching for Charley Patton's grave or Po Monkey's Lounge.

THANKS FOR A GREAT 2010; PLEASE COME SEE US IN 2011

Since I failed to deliver a Holiday Edition of the Cat Head Update e-newsletter, let me just say a quick "happy holidays" and "happy new year." C'mon by and say hello at Cat Head when you get a chance... or if you can't make it to C'dale this year... please consider calling in an order for some Cat Head tees or caps (see below). Oh, ALSO please check out my new blues book coming out in April (see side bar to left); it's called "Hidden History of Mississippi Blues" (The History Press), and I'm very excited about it.  For now, thanks for all the past support folks, and hope to see y'all down in the Mississippi Delta some time soon...  Roger

(PHOTO: Thanks to Ken Flynt for this Facebook photo from our recent Clarksdale Film Festival of yours truly with Cdale's Mayor Espy and my awesome co-festival organizer Nan Hughes.  Our other amazing co-organizer Goldie Hirsberg is not shown; she was probably doing actual work while we were goofing off.....)

Cat Head Delta Blues & Folk Art

252 Delta Avenue, Clarksdale, MS 38614

662-624-5992 - roger@cathead.biz

http://www.cathead.biz

CLICK FOR CAT HEAD WEB SITE

PICK UP THE NEW ISSUE OF BLUES REVUE MAGAZINE

Catch the regular "Down in the Delta" column. Pick it up at Cat Head or click this link to subscribe to BR mag... THANKS!

RECENT CAT HEAD RELATED EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES:

CAT HEAD BRINGS "BLUES IN SCHOOLS" PRESENTATION TO LIMA, OHIO:  Special thanks to Kara Place and Sally Windle at Lima City School's Arts & Magnet Program for flying me in to talk with 5th-8th graders about Mississippi Delta blues music and juke joint culture.  I truly enjoyed it, and man, what an awesome school (ie. the teachers, principal and curriculum).  For those who weren't there, the presentation included a slide show of photos by Lou Bopp (thanks Lou!) and video clips from Cat Head co-productions like "Hard Times" and "M for Mississippi"... plus me rambling on about Red's Lounge, Ground Zero Blues Club, Cat Head, Juke Fest... and guys like Big George Brock, T-Model Ford and Big A.  Good questions from the students, too.  One frightening thing I found out, though.  The students would only admit to listening to MP3s -- no CDs let alone LPs!!!  I didn't dare ask about 78s.  (PHOTO: Presentation to students, courtesy of Lima newspaper.)

MR. TATER "THE MUSIC MAKER" HONORED WITH PERMANENT CAT HEAD MEMORIAL:  The late, great Foster Wiley aka Mr. Tater The Music Maker was honored back in November with a permanent monument on the wall above 'his' bench out front of Cat Head store. Yalls Blues Band, Terry "Harmonica" Bean and the original Tater Tots (Mr. Tater's backing band w/Stan Street, Dixie Street, John Ruskey, Bill Abel and others) all performed.  Mr. Tater is very missed but never forgotten.  (PHOTO: Tater memorial above a singing "Harmonica" Bean and near a grinnin' T-Model Ford...)

"MISSISSIPPI: STATE OF BLUES" BOOK SIGNING AT CAT HEAD IN CLARKSDALE:  Thanks to Ken Murphy and Scott Barretta for holding a wonderfully attended book signing at Cat Head the same day as the Mr. Tater tribute above.  Their new book is AMAZING, and while it ain't cheap ($59.95), it is honestly worth every single cent.  'Just beautiful... and captures the Mississippi Delta's blues scene from top to bottom as it really and truly is in the 2008-2011 era.  Many of Mississippi's coolest jukes, clubs, museums, festivals and musicians are covered in glorious color.  You can buy your copy at Cat Head, of course; just drop by or call 662-624-5992.  (PHOTO: Cover of Ken Murphy's oversized coffee table book -- buy a copy today; you'll love it!)

CAT HEAD MINI BLUES FEST BACK IN OCTOBER:  Yep, there was another crazy-good mini blues fest out in the street in front of Cat Head back in October during the (newly rechristened) King Biscuit Blues Festival weekend.  Thanks to everyone who attended.  (PHOTO: Big George Brock plays the mini fest; photo courtesy of Sweet Tea Blues on the internet; thanks.)

FOR UPCOMING CAT HEAD STUFF: Please go to www.cathead.biz ...

JUKE JOINT FESTIVAL & RELATED EVENTS... COMING TO CLARKSDALE IN APRIL!

8TH ANNUAL JUKE JOINT FESTIVAL & RELATED EVENTS, COMING TO CLARKSDALE, MISS.

Crazy to imagine, but yes... it's the 8th annual edition of Juke Joint Festival that is dang near upon us.  The official festival itself is Saturday, April 16th while the amazing related events kick off that Thursday evening, carry through all day Friday, and resume/conclude that Sunday -- April 14-17, 2011.  It's "half blues festival, half small-town fair and all about the Delta!"  Last year's fest attracted attendees from at least 45 US states, 19 foreign countries and 51 Mississippi counties (that we know of).

A tiny sampling of the blues acts you'll see at Juke Fest includes:  Honeyboy Edwards, Big George Brock, Big Jack Johnson, Super Chikan, Watermelon Slim, Cedric Burnside, Rev. Peyton's Big Damn Band, Bilbo Walker, Guitar Mikey, Anthony "Big A" Sherrod, Lightnin' Malcolm, Mark "Mule Man" Massey, Johnny Rawls, Pat Thomas, Robert "Wolfman" Belfour, James "T-Model" Ford, Josh "Razorblade" Stewart, Jimbo Mathus, Terry "Big T" Williams, Terry "Harmonica" Bean, Jimmy "Duck" Holmes, the Way of Blues Revue (Bill "Howl-N-Madd" Perry, Alphonso Sanders, King Edward, Mickey Rogers), Cedell Davis & Brethren and many more!

Juke Fest boasts everything from live blues to arts & crafts, from Southern food to train rides, from a petting zoo to a rock wall, from book signings to a mini film fest, from racing pigs to monkeys riding dogs (no, really... monkeys riding dogs)!  And oh yeah, did we mention that over 50 fabulous blues acts will perform for y'all's entertainment in Clarksdale that weekend?!  That Saturday night is still the crown jewel of the festival, of course, with 18 blues acts at 17 juke venues (plus multiple bus shuttles running between the venues and hotels) -- all for the price of a $10 wristband.  Yep, 10 bucks.  The same price that it was 8 years ago.  Pre-sale wristbands are ON SALE NOW, go to our official festival site, http://www.jukejointfestival.com.  We're still finalizing the music, vendor and event line-up... but there's plenty of info there already.  Oh, one other thing, please BOOK A HOTEL ROOM IMMEDIATELY if  you don't already have one (or plan to camp at the Expo Center); for accommodation info please go to http://www.cathead.biz/guide.html.

JUKE JOINT FESTIVALWEB SITE INCLUDES:• pre-sale wristbands

• music/event line-up

• vendor information

• sponsor information

• photos from past years

• and much more

(Click to hear a preview of Clarksdale's up-and-coming blues star Anthony "BIG A" Sherrod... before seeing him at Juke Joint Festival in April.)

GENERAL BLUES & RELATED NEWS AND INFORMATION

- (PHOTO of Clarksdale 'Crossroads' by Chuck Lamb; available as a post card at Cat Head store.)

ENJOY THE BLUES NEWS SNAPSHOTS BELOW GATHERED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES ... EDITED FOR SPACE (thanks to all!)...

NEWS FROM 'SUNFLOWER RIVER BLUES FESTIVAL' IN CLARKSDALE, MISS. Clarksdale's Sunflower offers $1,000 prize pack for best 24th annual festival design!  A contest for the best festival design for the 2011 Sunflower River Blues and Gospel Festival is offering a $1,000 super-size prize package to the winner. "We're spreading the excitement for our 24th festival August 12-13-14," says co-chairman Melville Tillis. The winner, he says, will receive a $500 cash award, a weekend VIP package for four guests in the air-cooled VIP tent next to the main stage with unlimited beverages, invitations to the "Grits, Greens, and Barbecue" pre-festival Thursday night supper, festival merchandise featuring the winning design, and presentation on the main stage, in the festival program and website. Friday, April 1, is the deadline for entries to be received in the Sunflower River Blues Association's Post Office Box 1562, Clarksdale, MS 38614. Artists are limited to one entry per person.  ...  The 2011 Sunflower is being dedicated to five key festival contributors including musicians Michael James, Wesley Jefferson, and Foster "Tater" Willey, club owner Sarah Moore, and festival vendor chairman James Alford. During the three-day festival, more than 40 bands will perform on four stages: an electric main stage, two acoustic stages, and a gospel stage. www.sunflowerfest.org

BB KING MUSEUM ANNOUNCES NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Dion Brown is the new Executive Director of the B.B. King Museum & Delta Interpretive Center in Indianola , Mississippi . He comes to the job from Wichita, Kansas where he has been Chief Operating Officer at Exploration Place , a hands-on science and children's museum which draws over 180,000 visitors a year. Brown will be in his new position at the museum starting Feb. 14. The B.B. King Museum attracts thousands of visitors each year, including many from all over the world. Its state-of-the-art exhibits and films have drawn praise and received national awards. www.bbkingmuseum.org

THE MISSISSIPPI DELTA AND WORLD CELEBRATE 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF BLUESMAN ROBERT JOHNSON'S BIRTH

- Feb 13, 2011 (yep, last night!) - Meridian, MS celebrated its "Blues at the Crossroads: The Robert Johnson Centennial Concert" w/Big Head Todd & The Monsters, Honeyboy Edwards, Hubert Sumlin and more at the MSU Riley Center.

- March 1, 2011 - Rock band Big Head Todd releases RJ tribute album, "100 Years of Robert Johnson" on Blind Pig Records featuring guests BB King, Hubert Sumlin, David "Honeyboy" Edwards, Charlie Musselwhite, Ruthie Foster, Cedric Burnside and Lightnin' Malcolm.  (Todd is also touring behind the CD.)

- April 16, 2011 - Clarksdale, MS dedicates this year's Juke Joint Festival to the legacy of Robert Johnson and the recently passed away Mr. Tater the Music Maker, www.jukejointfestival.com.

- May 6-8, 2011 - "Greenwood celebrates legendary musician Robert Johnson's 100th birthday. There will be live music, expert panel discussions, art exhibits, tours of historic sites and more!" According to the AP/Greenwood Commonwealth/WXVT, "The Greenwood Convention and Visitors Bureau and local businesses will mark the occasion with a weeklong series of events, including back-to-back night concerts in Whittington Park."  Additionally, "An art exhibit, 'Robert Johnson Exposed,' will open May 5 at Cottonlandia Museum. It will feature works from the collection of Steve LaVere, said Cheryl Taylor, exec director of Cottonlandia."

RECENT WEB MAGAZINE INTERVIEWS JEFF KONKEL

American Blues Scene presents an... "Interview with Jeff Konkel of Broke & Hungry Records, the quintessential delta blues label" at http://www.americanbluesscene.com/2011/01/interview-with-jeff-konkel-of-broke-and-hungry-records-the-quintessential-delta-blues-label/

Friday Blues Fix asks 'Ten Questions' of Konkel at http://fridaybluesfix.blogspot.com/2010/12/broke-hungry-records.html

THE DELTA BOHEMIAN -- NEW C'DALE WEB SITE/BLOG

As this new Clarksdale-based web site states, "We do not propose to be all things to all people. However, we hope our unique views on life in the Mississippi Delta will intrigue you, make you laugh, cause you to pontificate, reflect and appreciate our little cultural microcosm." - Poor William.  Two things of particular interest on the site:  Nick Wambolt's stunning Red's Lounge/Bilbo Walker artwork ( http://www.deltabohemian.com/nicolas-wambolt-wannabe-mississippi-delta-semifixture-artist/ ) AND The Delta Bohemian's review w/video of the Clarksdale Film Festival ( http://www.deltabohemian.com/selected-scenes-clarksdale-film-festival/ ).  Thanks to DB for the festival promotion!

'BLUES TODAY: A LIVING BLUES SYMPOSIUM' IN FEB

The University of Mississippi (Oxford, MS) will present its annual blues symposium February 24-25 this year.  It will feature an address by Jim O'Neal, interview with Poonanny, Blues Tourism panel discussion and more. Info at www.livingblues.com

PHOTOS OF LAST YEAR'S TOMMY JOHNSON BLUES FEST

...are no on-line at http://www.tommyjohnsonblues.com/fifthfestival.php.  ALSO, FOR LATEST UPDATES ON TOMMY JOHNSON GRAVE MARKER CONTROVERSY... go to http://us1.forward-to-friend.com/forward/show?u=4c2206092a8c0f4ac2d516efd&id=401934f239 and scroll down till you see "The Saga of Robert Johnson."

FRENCH MAGAZINE BLOG ON CLARKSDALE AND THE BLUES

Read French?  Then, read on at Les in Rocks mag on-line... http://www.lesinrocks.com/musique/musique-article/t/57398/date/2011-01-14/article/reportage-le-missisipi-et-les-fantomes-du-blues/

MS BLUES TRAIL HONORED BY GRAMMY MUSEUM IN LA

Forwarded by Bill H., "On Thursday, February 10, this year's 'Mississippi Music Celebration at The GRAMMY Museum' at L.A. LIVE in downtown Los Angeles will celebrate that unparalleled musical legacy and specifically honor Mississippi's pivotal role in the establishment of blues music and that genre's influence across the music industry." Read more: http://www.benzinga.com/press-releases/11/02/p835152/mississippi-blues-trail-winds-its-way-to-the-grammy-museum-in-los-angel#ixzz1DrN6fDQI

M FOR MISSISSIPPI FILM GARNERS NEW AWARD IN JACKSON, MISSISSIPPI

"...More than two years after its premiere, the blues film M For Mississippi continues to garner acclaim: The Mississippi Film Institute has named it Best Mississippi-Made Film at the 2010 Mississippi International Film Festival in Jackson (Oct 28-30th). Earlier awards bestowed on M for Mississippi include: 2009 Blues Music Award for DVD of the Year; two Living Blues Awards; Best New Roots Culture Film at the Cinema on the Bayou Film Festival; and Made In Mississippi Award at the Tupelo Film Festival..." Preview or purchase DVD at www.mformississippi.com

DELTA CULTURAL CENTER NEWS FROM HELENA, ARKANSAS

"Nothing But the Blues: The Watercolor Portraits of Laurie Goldstein-Warren focuses on Goldstein-Warren’s colorful portraiture of several of blues music’s most prominent figures, including B.B. King, Pinetop Perkins, Buddy Guy, Charlie Musselwhite, Bobby Rush, Taj Mahal, and Mojo Buford. Works in the exhibit also portray sidemen, street musicians, and more. Several pieces convey Goldstein-Warren’s impressions from Helena ’s 25th Annual King Biscuit Blues Festival, which she attended in October 2010." www.deltaculturalcenter.com

TUNICA, MS, SEEKS TO CAPITALIZE ON BLUES TOURISM

(By Yolanda Jones, The Commercial Appeal, January 22, 2011) W.C. Handy once played the blues on the wooden platform of the train depot in Dundee, as crowds danced to his music. On Wednesday, the 116-year-old depot reclaimed its blues heritage as it was moved to its new home in Tunica. It will be restored to house a visitors center and serve as the entrance to the new Gateway to the Blues Museum. "This train depot, the last one in Tunica County, will allow us to preserve its blues heritage by giving tourists another component of this rich history in this area," said Webster Franklin, president and CEO of the Tunica Convention and Visitors Bureau. "If you look at Graceland, Beale Street and the B.B. King Museum, tourists flock to these attractions, and now we have another blues product along U.S. 61 for tourists to enjoy for years to come."

90-YEAR-OLD-ISH BLUESMAN JAMES 'T-MODEL' FORD HAS NEW CD

Alive Records is releasing a new CD by the Greenville, Mississippi bluesman, entitled "Taledragger."  Hear T-Model live at Juke Fest in April... or a sample from new CD now at http://www.blueprint-blues.co.uk/download-t-model-ford

MISSISSIPPI-BORN JIMMY REED CELEBRATED IN ILLINOIS

(River Forest, IL) - Dominican University’s Blues and the Spirit Initiative, in partnership with the Jimmy and Mary Reed Foundation, will present on Tuesday, February 15 “Ain’t That Lovin’ You Baby,” a symposium on the life and legacy of blues musician Jimmy Reed. The symposium, as well as the premiere screening of a documentary on Reed and a jam session with some of Reed’s former bandmates, will be held in the Bluhm auditorium of Parmer Hall, 7900 W. Division Street, River Forest. This program is free but seating is very limited. To make a reservation, please contact Dr. Janice Monti, chair of the sociology and criminology department at Dominican University, at (708) 524-6050 or visit the website at www.dom.edu/blues.

DUST-TO-DIGITAL LABEL OFFERS 4 RECENT RELEASES

If you were lucky enough to catch the recent Clarksdale Film Festival screening of "Let Your Feet Do the Talkin'", then you already know about one of these fine rootsy new releases:

- Baby, How Can It Be? (Songs of Love, Lust and Contempt from the 1920s and 1930s) - 3CD set

- The Hurricane That Hit Atlanta (Rev Johnny L. Jones) - 2CD set

- Let Your Feet Do the Talkin' (doc on buck dancing legend Thomas Maupin)- DVD

- Ten Thousand Points of Light (doc on Atlanta family and their obsessive Xmas decor) - DVD

BUY 'EM at http://www.dust-digital.com.  ALSO, Cat Head is currently stocking the film fest fav "Let Your Feet Do the Talkin'."

PINETOP PERKINS FOUNDATION RECEIVES GRANT

The Pinetop Perkins Foundation will be able to provide scholarships for youth attending the Second Annual Master Class Workshops in Clarksdale, MS, thanks to a grant from the Rock River Foundation founded by Morgan Freeman. Held June 15 -17, 2011, on the grounds of the historic Hopson Plantation and Shack Up Inn, the workshops cover 2 1/2 days of instruction capped by a performance Friday evening at Ground Zero Blues Club.

CLARKSDALE'S JOHN RUSKEY FEATURED IN CANOE & KAYAK MAGAZINE

Mississippi's "River Man," John Ruskey and his Quapaw Canoe Company were featured recently in Canoe & Kayak Magazine.  See these web links for photos from the feature as well as a bonus video...  http://canoekayak.com/videos-photos/gallery/mississippi-crossroads/mississippi-photos/ AND http://canoekayak.com/canoe/mississippi-crossroads-web-extra/

MISSISSIPPI DELTA LITERARY TOUR COMING IN MARCH

Per Delta Business Journal:  "The Mississippi Delta Literary Tour Sunday, March 20, through Wednesday, March 23, 2011. Sponsored by the University of Mississippi's Center for the Study of Southern Culture, it focuses on the Mississippi Delta's legendary blues, writers, and food, along with the region's tumultuous history. Limited to 40 registrants, the tour is based in Greenwood with day trips to Greenwood, Indianola, Belzoni, Greenville, Leland, Tutwiler, and Clarksdale. ... For tour information, contact tour organizer Jimmy Thomas at 662/915-5993 or via email at jgthomas@olemiss.edu.

C'DALE CELEBRATES 100TH BIRTHDAY OF TN WILLIAMS

Per Delta Business Journal:  Celebrating the 100th birthday of Tennessee Williams on March 26, 2011, in his childhood home of Clarksdale has escalated into a multi-faceted spring festival, according to organizers at Coahoma Community College and Mississippi tourism officials. Highlighting the celebration will be a screening of the Tennessee Williams documentary, "The South Is Everywhere," being aired on Public Television in Europe on the same day and recorded during Clarksdale's 2010 Williams Festival by filmmaker Herbert Krill. www.coahomacc.edu/twiliams

'BLUES CRITIC MEDIA' TOP 2010 SOUL-BLUES ALBUMS

1. Solomon Burke "Nothing's Impossible"  (E1)

2. Earl Gaines "Good To Me" (Ecko)

3. Big G "Special Delivery" (CDS)

4. Calvin Richardson "America's Most Wanted" (Shanachie)

5. Luther Lackey "The Preacher's Wife" (Ecko)

6. Floyd Taylor "All Of Me" (CDS)

7. Carl Marshall "Love Who You Wanna Love" (CDS)

8. Wendell B "In Touch With My Southern Soul" (Smoothway Ent.)

9. Cicero Blake "I'm Satisfied" (CDS)

10. Sharon Jones "I Learned The Hard Way" (Daptone)

SIDEWALK MARKER HONORS MEMPHIS' DENNIS BROOKS

A music note marker was dedicated to Memphis "music maven and supporter of musicians" last week on Beale Street in Memphis. Dennis passed away last year, leaving legions of friends in mourning. Story and photos at http://www.ameriblues.com/2011/02/05/huge-turnout-to-honor-dennis-brookss-brass-note-dedication-on-beale/

MS BLUES TRAIL LICENSE PLATE UPDATE VIA JANET WEBB

"Last January the Mississippi Blues Trail license plates became available for us to place on our vehicles.  We started with 214 plates.  To date 342 plates have been issued.  We thank you for supporting this project from the beginning and helping it grow!  In this upcoming year if given the opportunity, we hope you will continue to encourage family and friends to consider a MBT license plate when they renew.   The specialty plate is ordered at the tax assessor’s office and comes through the mail in 3-7 days."

NEW 'SONNY BOY CLUB' SEEKS TO RAISE $ FOR TUTWILER

From 'Harmonica Camp' guru Jon Gindick comes... "The Sonny Boy Club -- harp players world-wide helping the people of  Tutwiler, Mississippi, where Sonny Boy Williamson II is buried.  With all contributions going directly into the Pay Pal accounts of The Tutwiler Medical Clinic and the Tutwiler Community Education Center to help pay for medical services otherwise unavailable to local residents... To help sustain the vital Community Education Center... To create a music program at the Community Education Center... To bring Sonny Boy's life and music full circle by giving back a little bit of what he has given us. Info/donations at:

http://bluesharmonicajamcamp.com/sonnyboy.html

JON GINDICK ALSO SAYS he is, "also planning a Sonny Boy Day in Tutwiler on Monday, May 23, the day before my Jam Camp starts and the day after Adam Gussows Harmonica Hill Country event ends. It will be like a mini Jam Camp, except for as many people as we can get instead of limited enrollment. I wil lbe teaching a class for all harp players starting at noon and the other pros will teach during the day and in the evening have an all-star jam (that actually includes everybody who wants) that includes Marc Hummel, Cheryl Arena, Me, Hash Brown, Ralph Carter, Mark Yacovone and Lee led rythm section. We are charging $55 in advance, and $65 at the door." http://bluesharmonicajamcamp.com/sonnyboyfestival.html

'BIG PINK GUESTHOUSE' FOR SALE IN CLARKSDALE, MISS.

Owner Tommy Polk tells me that the Big Pink (currently a B&B) is for sale for (please confirm with him) $175K -- and includes both the large brick main building and the smaller wooden (former) commissary building.  The property is very cool.  Please email Tommy for more info at tommypolk@hotmail.com, and check out Big Pink on-line at http://www.bigpinkguesthouse.com

NEW WEB SITE FOR MISSISSIPPI-BORN BLUES LEGEND WILLIE DIXON

Go to http://www.willie-dixon.com/. "Welcome... to the new Willie Dixon website! ... Up next will be the launch of the Vintage Dixon, the online gift shop of all things Willie Dixon. ... We are in the process of putting together the Willie Dixon fan club" -- Alex Dixon.

SAD NEWS: RECENT PASSINGS IN THE BLUES WORLD

Thanks to all who forwarded these passings; R.I.P...

- Little Smokey Smothers, Chicago, IL, Nov. 20, 2010.

- Robert Curtis Smith... passed away apparently in Nov. 2010.

- Robin Rogers, Gastonia, NC, Dec. 17, 2010.

- Mean Gene Kelton, Houston, TX, Dec. 28, 2010.

- Fred Sanders, Memphis, TN, Jan. 15, 2011.

- Marvin Sease, Vicksburg, MS, Feb. 8, 2011.

POCONOS BLUES FESTIVAL ALSO PASSES AWAY...

December 2, 2010 -- "It is with regret that JFBB announces the cancellation of all off season festivals including The Pocono Blues Festival at Big Boulder, scheduled for July 29th, 30th, and 31st, 2011. ... Due to the current economic landscape, Peak Resorts felt the need to re-structure the current operation and focus on the primary business of winter sports."

VOICE OF AMERICA VIDEO "PASSING DOWN THE BLUES"

Via several folks (thx): Voice of America features Bill 'Howl-N-Madd' Perry, Super Chikan and others in 'Passing Down the Blues' video about passing the blues to the next generation.

HELP CENTER FOR SOUTHERN FOLKLORE W/GRANT

"We would like to ask you to sustain the Center for Southern Folklore’s growth and development by helping us match a $30,000 grant awarded to CSF by The National Endowment For The Arts." The wonderful Center is based in Memphis, in case you don't know. Go here to help: http://www.southernfolklore.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=37&Itemid=274

THE BLUES FOUNDATION OF MEMPHIS FINDS NEW HOME, DOWNTOWN

The Blues Foundation, the Memphis-based inon-profit organization dedicated to the past, present and future of Blues music, is pleased to announce that it has selected the location of its first permanent home. The organization is set to move into its new home in Downtown Memphis in March 2011. The establishment of a permanent home will centralize the Foundation's educational, audio-visual and retail opportunities, in addition to housing its staff and operations. Scheduled to open in early 2011, admission to the new Blues Foundation's home will be free. A schedule of exhibits, educational programs, and events will be announced in conjunction with grand opening. www.Blues.org.

GRAMMY AWARD NOMINATIONS -- BLUES CATEGORIES

Best Traditional Blues Album

Giant - James Cotton, Alligator

Memphis Blues - Cyndi Lauper, Mercer Street Records

The Well - Charlie Musselwhite, Alligator

Joined At The Hip - Pinetop Perkins/Willie 'Big Eyes' Smith, Telarc

Plays Blues, Ballads & Favorites - Jimmie Vaughan, Shout! Factory

Best Contemporary Blues Album

Nothing's Impossible - Solomon Burke, E1 Music

Tribal - Dr. John And The Lower 911, 429 Records

Living Proof - Buddy Guy, Silvertone/Jive

Interpretations: British Rock Songbook - Bettye LaVette, ANTI

Live! In Chicago - Kenny Wayne Shepherd Band Featuring Hubert Sumlin, Willie "Big Eyes" Smith, Bryan Lee, And Buddy Flett, Roadrunner/Loud & Proud Records

BAREFOOT WORKSHOPS' LATEST CLARKSDALE FILMS

View them at the links below.  The latest edition of the workshop begins today in Clarksdale, so look to see their new films during Juke Joint Festival (Delta Cinemas) this April!

The Foster Parent Of Iron, a film by Yara Hannema & Gabriella Willenz - http://www.vimeo.com/15216487

The Mighty Quapaw, a film by Natalie Irby & Rachael Johnson - http://www.vimeo.com/15214979

The Rest Haven, a film by Malcolm White & Alex Tufel - http://www.vimeo.com/15514136

UPDATES FROM INDIANOLA, MS' HOUSE OF KHAFRE

- Cultural Competency Workshop: "Historical Truths, Myths and Artistic Methods of Healing," 2/21/11. On the Front Porch Stage at da’ House of Khafre, The Delta’s Premiere Cultural Arts Center, 105 Main St., downtown Indianola MS.

- Seeking donation towards the development of Khafre, Inc’s "Cotton Pickers of America Monument and Sharecroppers Interpretive Center."

- Contact: C. Sade Turnipseed, Khafre, Inc.; sade@khafreinc.org, 662.347.8198; www.khafre.us

REVIEW THE BLUES.COM IS A NEW WEB SITE

(info via Press Release) - "Review The Blues.com is a new non-profit organization for all you blues enthusiasts out there! Our mission is to help promote the blues in the traditional form. On our website you will find reviews about records and concerts, columns and interviews. The new thing about it is that everybody can join us. Just send your stories or photos and as long as it's positive and about the more traditional blues we will post it! Sent to Posts@reviewtheblues.com."

OXFORD AMERICAN MAG VIDEOS OXFORD, MS' RONZO

"Anyone who's spent more than 15 minutes in Oxford, Mississippi, has probably heard of local legend Ron Shapiro. Now known simply as 'Ronzo,' this ever-upbeat and unpredictable local icon has, to say the least, a colorful history..." See more at web link,

http://www.oxfordamerican.org/articles/sections/solost/

XM/SIRIUS RADIO'S BLUESVILLE 'PICKS TO CLICK'

For the week of FEB. 5, 2011:

1. “So Many Miles” – Chris Cain – Blue Rock’it Records

2. “From The Top” – Mike Zito – Self Produced

3. “Dispatches From The Moon” – Mighty Mo Rodgers – Dixie Frog

4. “Cherry Sunday Orchestra” – Toni Price – Self Produced

5. “Teach You A Lesson” – Randy Oxford Band – Della Records

CALL THE CAT HEAD STORE TODAY TO PURCHASE NEW BLUES TEES AND MORE!

(PHOTO: Cat Head customer Skip R. models a Cat Head T-shirt in front of some old condos built by the Incans at Machu Pichu, Peru. Thanks Skip!)

CALL TO ORDER and check size/color/style stock -- 662-624-5992 (Mon-Sat, 10-5 Central).  Or drop on by the store.  We have new long sleeve "Clarksdale, Mississippi - Est. 1848" T-shirts ($22) for winter-into-spring.  Plus, we still have cool "Clarksdale" vintage postcard style T-shirts ($20), jammin' "Clarksdale Guitar" T-shirts ($22) and our ever-popular "Cat Head/Crossroads" T-shirts in white or black ($20).  Shipping/handling and applicable sales tax extra, of course.  We also have locally embroidered Cat Head logo caps (most with "Clarksdale, Mississippi" on the back), $20 each -- call for color availability and see Sadie the Store Pug modeling one above!  Oh... and we have Cat Head logo beer glasses, shot glasses, guitar picks, buttons, coasters, etc. as well; call for details and pricing.  ALSO, send me a photo of you wearing your Cat Head merch somewhere interesting, and maybe I'll include your shot in a future Cat Head Newsletter...  Thanks, Rog

CAT HEAD DELTA BLUES & FOLK ART STORE

252 Delta Avenue, Clarksdale, Mississippi 38614

http://www.cathead.biz • 662-624-5992

(PHOTOS:  Various Cat Heat Tees and a Cat Head mug -- the back of it says "Clarksdale, Mississippi" by the way -- PLUS, T-Model Ford shown in his favorite Cat Head cap and perpetually tuning his guitar...)

FINAL MR. TATER CD -- "SUPERBAD" -- RELEASED; FUNDRAISER FOR FUTURE TATER MEMORIAL IN C'DALE

(PHOTO: movie-still by Damien Blaylock from "M for Mississippi".)

"SUPERBAD" IS THE TITLE OF THE FINAL MR. TATER CD

According to the new CD's producer/engineer Robin Lane, Foster Wiley aka Mr. Tater The Music Maker chose the Superbad title and approved the final tracks prior to entering the hospital and ultimately passing away last September.  Since Mr. Tater is no longer around to benefit from the CD recording, Lane plans to put profits towards a permanent Tater memorial of some type in Clarksdale.  (More details are to come.)  CDs may be purchased from Lane (he often hangs out at Red's Lounge or wherever the band All Night Long is playing), via CDbaby.com, or at Cat Head store; downloads are for sale on iTunes.  Additionally, Lane has opened an account at Clarksdale's Regions Bank (Tater Superbad c/o Robin Lane) to collect further proceeds the future memorial.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT...

Robin Lane at blues4dirt@yahoo.com for details about the CD or about the special donation account at Regions Bank.

"M FOR MISSISSIPPI" AND THREE FORKS MUSIC NEWS...

The Blues Music Award and Living Blues Award-winning blues documentary "M for Mississippi: A Road Trip through the Birthplace of the Blues" is available at www.mformississippi.com or (for rental) via www.netflix.com. Stores can order the DVD and CD soundtracks through City Hall Records. Digital downloads of the soundtracks is also available via CDbaby or iTunes.

THE WONDERFUL B.B. KING MUSEUM SCREENED "M FOR MISSISSIPPI" IN JANUARY:

Thanks so much to our friends at the amazing B.B. King Museum in Indianola, Mississippi, for screening our blues travelogue.  It was a very special night with bluesman (and film star) Pat Thomas performing, film sponsor Amanda Gresham (of Delta Music Experience) attending and a lengthy Q&A session as the credits rolled.  (The food and drink at Gin Mill Mall before and The Blue Biscuit afterward were also quite tasty. Thanks again to all

THREE FORKS MUSIC / M FOR MISS HOSTED A BOOTH AT MS BLUES MARATHON: The day after screening M FOR M in Indianola, the Three Forks crew (Jeff Konkel/Kari Jones/Roger Stolle) hosted an informational booth at the very popular Mississippi Blues Marathon. Musicians from "M for Mississippi" such as Cadillac John, Bill Abel, Terry "Harmonica" Bean, Lightnin' Malcolm and Jimmy "Duck" Holmes also performed.

THREE FORKS PARTNER "BROKE & HUNGRY RECORDS" READYING SPRING RELEASES: 

- BREAKING NEWS! Coming this spring from Broke & Hungry Records: Our deluxe reissue of Jimmy "Duck Holmes' debut CD, Back to Bentonia! Featuring new essays, a bunch of never-before-seen photos and FOUR previously unreleased bonus cuts! Stay tuned for more information on this exciting reissue project.

- B&H's two-disc retrospective, "MISTAKES WERE MADE: FIVE YEARS OF RAW BLUES, DAMAGED LIVERS & QUESTIONABLE BUSINESS DECISIONS" has been pressed.  (Jeff gave me a preview and it both looks, reads and sounds great -- especially the brand-new Terry "Harmonica" Bean cuts and all the essential 'previously unreleased' tracks by folks like Duck Holmes.)  Search out Broke & Hungry on Facebook to hear some samples and see more about the upcoming release.

For more information on the Three Forks Music labels, go to:

www.mformississippi.com

www.brokeandhungryrecords.com

www.cathead.biz

www.mudpuppyrecordings.com

NOW, TAKE A MOMENT AND ROCK OUT TO BIG GEORGE BROCK'S THEME TO "M FOR MISSISSIPPI"  (click button)...

CLICK HERE for "M for Mississippi" web site.

BLUES NEWS COURTESY... 'BLUES FESTIVAL GUIDE'

CHECK OUT BLUES FESTIVAL GUIDE ON-LINE AT bluesfestivalguide.com

Where you can find fests, read articles, list your fest (for FREE) or buy an ad!

MICK JAGGER PICKS HIS TOP CLASSIC BLUES SONGS

Rolling Stones lead singer Mick Jagger has named his 10 favorite classic blues songs, as part of Rolling Stone magazine's "Playlist" series:

1. "I Got to Go" Little Walter, 1955

2. "First Time I Met the Blues" Buddy Guy, 1960

3. "40 Days and 40 Nights" Muddy Waters, 1956

4. "Stones in My Passway" Robert Johnson, 1937

5. "Lonely Avenue" Ray Charles, 1956

6. "Cold Shot" Stevie Ray Vaughan, 1984

7. "Everybody Knows About My Good Thing" Z.Z. Hill, 1982

8. "Dark Was the Night, Cold Was the Ground" Blind Willie Johnson, 1927

9. "Forty Four" Howlin' Wolf, 1954

10. "Going Down" Freddie King, 1971

ARETHA FRANKLIN SAYS HER HEALTH IS 'SUPERB'

DETROIT (KABC) -- A month after undergoing surgery, music legend Aretha Franklin says her health is "superb." On [a recent] installment of "The Wendy Williams Show," Franklin told the host that she was relaxing at a casino hotel in her hometown and hopes to start traveling soon. She says she has two more weeks of down time as she continues her recovery. Also, Franklin vowed to reschedule the concert dates she missed. The reason for the singer's Dec. 2 surgery was not disclosed.

SINGER ETTA JAMES BATTLING DEMENTIA AND LEUKEMIA

Sad news: Singer Etta James, 72, is gravely ill, diagnosed with dementia and undergoing treatment for leukemia. The Press-Enterprise in Riverside County, Calif., reports that James' condition came to light in court documents as part of a civil case in Riverside County Superior Court in which Artis Mills, her husband of 41 years, is seeking control of more than $1 million of James' money. AP reports that Beverly Hills physician Elaine James, who isn't related, says in court documents that the singer cannot sign her name and she needs help with feeding, dressing and hygiene.

James has not performed on stage since early 2010 and caused a stir in 2009 when she voiced her displeasure about not being chosen to sing at President Barack Obama's inauguration. Beyonce Knowles, who played James in a 2008 film, sang At Last instead.

SMITHSONIAN MUSIC EXHBIT ON A FIVE-STATE TOUR

ASBURY PARK, N.J. -- The Smithsonian hears America singing, playing instruments and telling its history through music. The Washington cultural institution's New Harmonies program will feature this musical history with a traveling exhibit in five states -- Minnesota, Mississippi, New Jersey, Ohio and South Carolina. Communities in those states will host performances and other events in conjunction with the exhibit.