Rocket 88 Has Hit The Highway

Hey Soul Mates,
I heard on the radio yesterday that Ike Turner had passed away. I had just gotten my ticketing info for the Grammy Awards, where I met Mr. Turner last year. All decked out in a rhinestone studded suit. Always a showman. Seeing him in person was a trip. So it was an odd coincidence for me. Ike won a Grammy in the best Trad Blues category and he made a charged acceptance speech as I recall.

Ike became an infamous villain in the very powerful Tina Turner story (she is amazing; whom he did discover), but his contribution to the start of Rock & Roll shouldn't be understated. Along with the likes of Big Mama Thornton, Chuck Berry, the Ink Spots and Louis Jordan, he was a musical pioneer. His playing is immortalized on the side Rocket 88 that many consider the first true Rock & Roll record. Deservedly so, Ike & Tina are in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Very much a case of judge the music, not the man. Because, in the end who can do the latter. The music has always endured.

Just some thoughts.

In my own music news, the CDs are pressed. Now waiting for shipment. I'm also excited about a new development overseas. There's a chance that an independent label (and its artists) will be involved with the tour. I'll keep you all posted. In the meantime, soak up all the Christmas spirit you can. I know I am, I started singing with the church choir to keep up my chops and make some joyful noises.

Peace & Disco Beats

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