Nothin' But The Blues with Byron Stripling

Jazz and Blues Master Byron Stripling to Perform with the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra

Vancouver BC – The Orpheum stage comes alive with the Blues on November 21^st & 22^nd at 8pm when the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra presents trumpet virtuoso/singer and Vancouver favourite, Byron Stripling, in Nothin’ But The Blues. With triumphant technique, charismatic charm, and a larger-than-life stage persona, Stripling has won over audiences world-wide. This is one concert sure to please both Jazz/Blues enthusiasts and casual listeners. This concert takes place as part of the London Drugs VSO Pops series.

“Byron Stripling wailed New Orleans-style but also negotiated bebop runs like Kenny Dorham and had the…audience shouting for joy with his earthy blues singing.”

- Denver Post

“…a towering and powerful trumpet player, who has been compared to a later Louis Armstrong.”

- Los Angeles Times

Byron Stripling has quickly become a favourite of Vancouver audiences, holding them in the palm of his hand with his enthusiasm, sense of tone and timing, and an authenticity rarely found in any but the true Jazz/Blues masters. From his early Count Basie and Dizzy Gillespie Orchestra days to present day, Byron Stripling’s musicianship and timeless appeal keep audiences coming back for more. Check out Mr. Stripling at www.byronstripling.com.

Stripling is joined by dazzling trombonist and longtime collaborator, Wycliffe Gordon, one of the preeminent jazz musicians of our time. Vocalist Dee Daniels is also featured in this concert along with organist Bobby Floyd and drummer Ted Moore.

Jeff Tyzik, the VSO’s Principal Pops Conductor, wields his baton for this celebration of the Blues. Tyzik has earned a reputation as one of America’s foremost pops conductors and is in high demand as a guest conductor across North America. Like Byron Stripling and Wycliffe Gordon, Jeff Tyzik is a graduate of the Eastman School of Music in New York. After graduating, he spent the next few years working with jazz legend Chuck Mangione and experienced his big break – the chance to co-compose a trumpet concerto with Allen Vizzutti to be recorded by pops legend Doc Severinsen. A few years later he was hired as Principal Pops Conductor of the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra – a position he has held for 12 years now. A skillful musician and conductor, Tyzik is known for his commitment to music of all genres and his engaging rapport with diverse audiences.

CONCERT INFO

London Drugs VSO Pops Series

Nothin’ But The Blues

Friday & Saturday, November 21^st & 22^nd, 8pm, Orpheum Theatre

Jeff Tyzik conductor
Byron Stripling trumpet/vocalist
Wycliffe Gordon trombone
Dee Daniels vocalist
Bobby Floyd organ
Ted Moore drums/principal composer

Tickets: $25 to $78.50 (Senior, Student and Subscriber Discounts Available)

Tickets available by phone at 604.876.3434 or online at www.vancouversymphony.ca

Series Sponsor:

London Drugs

Radio Sponsor:

103.5QM/FM

BIOGRAPHIES

Jeff Tyzik

Jeff Tyzik has earned a reputation as one of America's most innovative pops conductors. Described by the Rochester Democrat & Chronicle as “among the best pops conductors in America,” Tyzik is recognized for his brilliant arrangements, original programming, and engaging rapport with audiences of all ages. Principal Pops Conductor of the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra for over a decade, he also serves as Principal Pops Conductor of the Vancouver and Oregon Symphony Orchestras.

In twelve years with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra (RPO), Tyzik has developed an incredible relationship with devoted Rochester audiences, who appreciate his creative pops programming. Over the course of his tenure, he has written over 160 works for the orchestra. A consummate musician, Tyzik is so appreciated in Rochester that the RPO has taken the unusual step of inviting their principal pops conductor to appear as a guest artist in the orchestra’s subscription series calendar on a regular basis, where he has performed works by some of the greatest American composers to critical acclaim, and where he led the premiere of his own Trombone Concerto, which was funded by a grant from the National Endowment of the Arts. Recently, Tyzik recorded a disc of works by Gershwin with pianist Jon Nakamatsu and the RPO on the Harmonia Mundi label, to be released in spring 2007.

“His concert is the kind of thing that’s likely to give classical music a good name, perhaps even make it seem, dare I say, relevant,” writes John Pitcher of the Rochester Democrat & Chronicle (February 3, 2006). “What’s great about Tyzik is his way of making any concert (classical or pops) seem contemporary and approachable without sugarcoating anything, without dumbing down the musical experience.”

Highly sought after as a guest conductor, Tyzik has appeared with orchestras including the Cincinnati Pops, the New York Pops, and the Los Angeles Philharmonic at the Hollywood Bowl. In addition to his commitments in Rochester, Vancouver, and Winnipeg, during the 2006/07 season, he performs with orchestras across North America including Dallas, Detroit, Elgin, Hartford, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oregon and Toronto, as well as the Naples Philharmonic and the National Arts Centre Orchestra (Ottawa).

A native of Hyde Park, New York, Tyzik began his life in music at nine years old, when he first picked up a cornet. He studied both classical and jazz throughout high school, and went on to earn both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the Eastman School of Music, where he studied composition/arranging with Radio City Music Hall’s Ray Wright and jazz studies with the great band leader Chuck Mangione, both of whom profoundly impacted him as a musician.

Tyzik spent the next few years working with Mangione, soaking in every part of the music business. He became a skilled record producer, while continuing to be active as a performer and arranger. These experiences led Tyzik to one of the great early opportunities of his career—the chance to co-compose a trumpet concerto with friend and virtuoso trumpeter Allen Vizzutti to be recorded by pops legend Doc Severinsen.

After that first recording project, Tyzik worked closely with Severinsen on many projects including orchestrating many of the great band leader’s symphony orchestra programs, and producing a GRAMMY Award-winning album, The Tonight Show Band with Doc Severinsen, Vol. 1. To this day, he credits Severinsen as his greatest musical and professional inspiration.

As an accomplished composer and arranger, Tyzik has had his compositions recorded by ensembles including the London Symphony Orchestra, the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, and the Summit Brass, and his arrangements have been recorded by groups including Erich Kunzel and the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, the RPO, the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, and Doc Severinsen with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra in London. He has also produced and composed theme music for many of the major television networks, including ABC, NBC, HBO, and Cinemax, and released six of his own albums on Capitol, Polygram and Amherst Records.

Committed to performing music of all genres, Tyzik has collaborated with such diverse artists as Tony Bennett, Art Garfunkel, Dawn Upshaw, Marilyn Horne, Arturo Sandoval, The Chieftains, Mark O'Connor, Doc Severinsen, John Pizzarelli, Billy Taylor, and Lou Rawls, and has created original programs that include the greatest music from jazz and classical to Motown and swing.

Actively sharing his passion for music with others, Tyzik has been recognized for his community service and educational work by Rotary International, the Monroe County Music Educators, and the Rochester Philharmonic League. He is also the recipient of the Arts & Cultural Council of Greater Rochester's 2002 Performing Artist award.

Tyzik currently serves on the Board of Managers of the Eastman School of Music, and as a board member of the Hochstein School of Music and Dance. He lives in Rochester, New York, with his wife Jill.

Byron Stripling

With a contagious smile and captivating charm, trumpet virtuoso, BYRON STRIPLING, has ignited audiences internationally. As soloist with the Boston Pops Orchestra, Stripling has performed frequently under the baton of Keith Lockhart, as well as being featured soloist on the PBS television special, "Evening at Pops," with conductors John Williams and Mr. Lockhart. Currently, Stripling serves as artistic director and conductor of the highly acclaimed Columbus Jazz Orchestra.

Since his Carnegie Hall debut with Skitch Henderson and the New York Pops, STRIPLING has become a pops orchestra favorite throughout the country, soloing with Boston Pops, National Symphony, Pittsburgh Symphony, Cincinnati Pops, Seattle Symphony, Baltimore Symphony, Minnesota Orchestra, St. Louis Symphony, Vancouver Symphony, Utah Symphony, and The American Jazz Philharmonic, to name a few. He has been a featured soloist at the Hollywood Bowl and performs at jazz festivals throughout the world.

An accomplished actor and singer, STRIPLING was chosen, following a world wide search, to star in the lead role of the Broadway bound musical, "Satchmo." Many will remember his featured cameo performance in the television movie, "The Young Indiana Jones Chronicles," and his critically acclaimed virtuoso trumpet and riotous comedic performance in the 42nd Street production of "From Second Avenue to Broadway."

Television viewers have enjoyed his work as soloist on the worldwide telecast of The Grammy Awards. Millions have heard his trumpet and voice on television commercials, TV theme songs including "20/20," CNN, and soundtracks of favorite movies.

STRIPLING earned his stripes as lead trumpeter and soloist with the Count Basie Orchestra under the direction of Thad Jones and Frank Foster. He has also played and recorded extensively with the bands of Dizzy Gillespie, Woody Herman, Dave Brubeck, Lionel Hampton, Clark Terry, Louis Bellson, and Buck Clayton in addition to The Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra, The Carnegie Hall Jazz Band, and The GRP All Star Big Band.

STRIPLING enjoys conducting Seminars and Master Classes at colleges, universities, conservatories, and high schools. His informative talks, combined with his incomparable wit and charm, make him a favorite guest speaker to groups of all ages.

STRIPLING was educated at the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, New York and the Interlochen Arts Academy in Interlochen, Michigan. One of his greatest joys is to return, periodically, to Eastman and Interlochen as a special guest lecturer.

A resident of Ohio, STRIPLING lives in the country with his wife, former dancer, writer and poet, Alexis and their beautiful daughters.

Wycliffe Gordon

Wycliffe Gordon enjoys an extraordinary career as a performer, conductor, composer, arranger, and educator, receiving high praise from audiences and critics alike. Gordon tours the world performing hard-swinging, straight-ahead jazz for audiences ranging from heads of state to elementary school students. His trombone playing, hailed as "mixing powerful, intricate runs with sweet notes extended over clean melodies," has been universally hailed by jazz critics. Gordon received the Jazz Journalists Association 2002 and 2001 Award for Trombonist of the Year, the Jazz Journalists Association 2000 Critics’ Choice Award for Best Trombone and has been nominated for the Jazzpar Award.

In addition to a thriving solo career, he tours regularly leading the Wycliffe Gordon Quartet, headlining at legendary jazz venues throughout the world. Gordon is a former veteran member of the Wynton Marsalis Septet, The Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra, and The Gully Low Jazz Band, and has been a featured guest artist on Billy Taylor's "Jazz at The Kennedy Center" Series. Gordon’s extensive performance experience includes work with many of the most renowned jazz performers of the past and present.

Gordon’s musical prowess has been captured on numerous recordings, including nine solo CDs and three co-leader CDs. His latest solo effort, “Cone's Coup,” is scheduled for release in May 2006. Gordon is featured on numerous recordings with The Wynton Marsalis Septet, The Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra, and numerous others as evidenced in his extensive discography. Wycliffe Gordon is also a gifted composer and arranger. He was commissioned to compose a vibrant new score for the 1925 classic silent film "Body and Soul" (notable as the screen debut of Paul Robeson), which was premiered at the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra’s 2000-01 season opening night performance at Avery Fisher Hall. Gordon's "I Saw The Light," a musical tribute to Muhammad Ali, was commissioned and premiered by The Brass Band of Battle Creek in March 2004. Both works are scheduled for release on DVD in summer of 2006.

Gordon’s compositions have been performed by The Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra, The Wynton Marsalis Septet, The Wycliffe Gordon Quartet, The Brass Band of Battle Creek and numerous other ensembles, and performed in programs throughout the U.S. and abroad including concert halls in New York, Los Angeles, Aspen, Georgia, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Germany, London, Finland and Switzerland. His compositions are also featured as a part of the PBS series "Marsalis on Music." Recent concert seasons have included premieres of compositions by Mr. Gordon for a variety of ensembles both in the Unites States and internationally. The first in a series of print editions of his big band, small ensemble and choir compositions will be available in fall of 2006.

Gordon’s television appearances have included the Grammy Awards, the PBS special documentary "Swingin’ with the Duke," and two Live from Lincoln Center broadcasts with the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra – "Uptown Blues, Ellington at 100" (a collaboration with the New York Philharmonic) and "Big Train." Gordon also appeared in Ken Burns’ documentary "Jazz." Other television appearances include "A Carnegie Hall Christmas Concert" and "Live from Lincoln Center: The Juilliard School at 100 Years." Gordon is featured in BET's 13-part series "Journey with Jazz at Lincoln Center" and was guest artist and commentator in NPR affiliate WVIA's special program on Tommy Dorsey (along with the late Skitch Henderson, just days before Henderson's death). Gordon also appeared with the Wynton Marsalis Septet in the feature film "Tune In Tomorrow" starring Peter Falk, Keanu Reeves and Barbara Hershey.

Gordon is rapidly becoming one of America’s most persuasive and committed music educators. He currently serves on the faculty of the Jazz Studies Program at The Juilliard School, a position he has held since the founding of the program. His work with young musicians and audiences from elementary schools to universities all over the world is extensive, and includes master classes, clinics, workshops, children’s concerts and lectures — powerful evidence of his unique ability to relate musically to people of all ages. Gordon is currently working on a collection of trombone quartets, trios and duos to be entitled "Trombone Majesty," with expected publication in late 2006. In addition, his first method book "Wycliffe Gordon's Suggested Studies for Trombone," a compilation of the materials, exercises and approaches he uses in his teaching and in his own practice regimen, will be released in January 2007. Gordon teamed with trombonist Joseph Alessi of the New York Philharmonic and students in both of their studios at Juilliard in creating and presenting the master class "Two Sides of the Slide" for Jazz at Lincoln Center. The master class is available in its entirety as part of a streaming video series offered by the Education Department of Jazz at Lincoln Center.

Gordon is the youngest member of the U.S. Statesmen of Jazz, and in many tour performances has served and continues to serve as a musical ambassador for the U.S.
State Department.

Born in Waynesboro, Georgia, Gordon was first introduced to music by his late father, Lucius Gordon, a classical pianist and teacher. His interest in the trombone was sparked at age twelve by his elder brother who played the instrument in his junior high school band. Egged on by sibling rivalry, Gordon’s relentless pleading of his parents led to his first trombone. A year later, an aunt bequeathed Gordon her jazz record collection, and so began his passion for jazz music.

Mr. Gordon endorses Edwards trombones and Monette mouthpieces.

Dee Daniels

Dee Daniels offers the jazz aficionado an ultimate treat - jazz served up with full-bodied silky tones that soar to the height and captures the depth of her four-octave range. Her warm presence and performance ability is evident, whether fronting combos in intimate Jazz clubs, big bands, or symphony orchestras in concert halls.

Daniels' style was born in her stepfather's church choir in Oakland, California, honed through the R&B era and brought to full fruition during a five-year stay in Europe from 1982 to 1987. During those years, she had many wonderful opportunities to perform with such 'Legends of Jazz' as Toots Theilemans, Johnny Griffin, Ed Thigpen, and Monty Alexander to name but a few.

Two other personal highlights while in Europe include having had the opportunity of singing the Blues with the late, divine Sarah Vaughan in The Netherlands, and singing Gospel with the late great Joe Williams in Germany.

Dee's international career includes performances in eleven African countries, Australia, Colombia, Hong Kong and Japan, as well as in North America and many countries throughout Europe. She has cultivated a diverse career that has seen her on the theatre stage in the musical comedy, Wang Dang Doodle, and the starring role in the 2001 Calgary Stampede.

She has also established herself as a jazz vocalist in demand by the classical music world. She performs her Great Ladies of Swing and The Soul of Ray: The Music of Ray Charles POPS programs with symphony orchestras across Canada and the USA.

A respected vocal clinician and mentor, Dee sincerely believes in sharing her knowledge and experience with young singers/musicians. In 2001, she established the Dee Daniels Jazz Vocal Scholarship at the Capilano College in North Vancouver, BC. Also in 2001, she was the recipient of the FANS Award (a North Vancouver, BC Arts Council presentation); was nominated as Vocalist of the Year, and her Love Story CD was nominated for Best Jazz CD of the Year by West Coast Music Awards. In 2002 she was inducted into the BC Entertainment Hall of Fame and a plaque was installed on Vancouver's Walk of Fame.

In 2003 she received the prestigious Commemorative Medal for the Golden Jubilee of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, and was inducted into the University of Montana's School of Fine Arts, Hall of Honor. Dee has served on the Advisory Board of the Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival since 2000

Bobby Floyd

The passion with which Bobby Floyd plays piano, organ and keyboards are the result of his natural ability discovered at the age of two, his love of music, and years of practice. Whether performing jazz or gospel, as a soloist, with a trio or big band, his feel is unique and inspirational leading him to many distinguished appearances around the world.

Bobby has performed extensively in the U.S., Canada, Europe and Japan. Touring events include major jazz festivals, concert halls, and numerous night clubs with Ray Charles, Jeff Tyzik, Chris Howes and Sarah Morrow. The prestige associated with Floyd's international appearances can also be witnessed at home.

In his hometown, Columbus, Ohio, Bobby has been a feature with the Columbus Jazz Orchestra, The Columbus Symphony, and ProMusica Chamber Orchestra sharing the stage with Dionne Warwick, Doc Severinson, Artural Sandaval, Faye Robinson and many others. He has also appeared in a variety of performances opening for Spyro Gyra, Smokey Robinson, Stanley Clark and George Duke, as well as accompanying other artists like David "Fathead" Newman, Bobby Watson, Greg Osby and Billy Hart.

Bobby has completed three recordings: Interpretations, Setting the Standards, and Floyd's Finest Gift. His next project, soon to be released, is a live performance recorded in Spain. Other accomplishments include recording and composing on several of Vince Andrews' and Chris Howes' projects. He has also recorded with Gerald Levert ("Groove On") and Faye Robinson ("Remembering Marian Anderson"). Additionally, he is featured on a Rusty Bryant album, Rusty Rides Again, which received five stars in Downbeat magazine. Bobby Floyd currently performs with his band (Derek DiCenzo - Bass/Lead Guitar, Reggie Jackson - Drums). Members of the group add just the right mix of talent and experience to create the elements necessary to produce an appealing sound that goes well beyond live entertainment.

Ted Moore

Since graduating from the famed Eastman School of Music, Ted Moore has pursued a career which has taken him to many parts of the world with many different artists. He is leader and composer for his own Brazilian jazz group, Brasilia, which released its first CD, River Wide, to national critical acclaim. He has performed with Stan Getz, Paul Winter, Marian McPartland, Phil Markowitz, Eric Gale, Jack Wilkins, Gene Bertoncini and Joey DeFrancesco to name a few. On tour, Ted has performed throughout the US and Canada, as well as in Japan, Spain, England and Holland. He also spent two years living in Rio de Janeiro, performing as percussionist with the Brazilian Symphony Orchestra, and playing with many well-known Brazilian jazz artists. He has played in Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, the Kennedy Center, the Cathedral of St John in New York, Grace Cathedral in San Francisco, and in Suntory Hall in Tokyo. Currently, Ted is Director of the Jazz Department at UC Berkeley in Berkeley. CA

Le 6e Gala du Lys Blues attendu par l'industrie du blues au 400e de Québec

Gala du Lys Blues

6^e Édition

Annonce de la programmation du 6^e Gala du Lys Blues

Le 6^e Gala du Lys Blues attendu par l’industrie du blues au 400^e de Québec

Montréal- Cette année, c’est lors des festivités de la fête du 400^e anniversaire de la Ville de Québec que le 6^e Gala du Lys Blues aura lieu, le 28 septembre 2008, au théâtre petit Champlain de Québec.

Seize trophées Lys Blues seront remis aux lauréats du blues s’étant démarqué au courant de l’année dernière. Les récipiendaires, élu par la voix du public via le www.lenetblues.com, proviennent de tous les coins du Québec, célébrer le blues québécois.

Bob Harrisson, porte parole de l’événement, est fier de s’associer à l’effervescence du Blues québécois. La relève est très rafraîchissante. Plusieurs lauréats de Lys blues catégorie relève, des années précédentes, sont aujourd’hui bien connus du monde artistique. On a qu’à penser à Jonas Tomalty (2003) mieux connu aujourd’hui sous le nom de JONAS, est aujourd’hui un artiste accompli.

C’est toujours sous la barre de Martin Lachance, animateur de l’émission Sous un ciel blues de CHAA FM, que le Gala 2008 se déroulera. Vous pourrez voir six représentations de groupes Blues du Québec dont le Bob Harrisson Band pour ne nommer que celui-là. Ces groupes vous présenteront des exclusivités musicales qui seront entrecoupées des présentations de trophées.

C’est beaucoup pour encourager la relève que les organisateurs du Gala poursuivent d’année en année. Les deux organismes, Le Net Blues et le Gala du Lys Blues de concert s’efforcent d’aider les nouveaux venus dans le monde de la musique blues. D’ailleurs, un DVD du Gala 2006 est toujours disponibles au www.lenetblues.com, les fonds de la vente du DVD sont un financement direct au gala 2008.

Les billets pour assister au Gala sont en vente sur le réseau Billetech.

Date : 28 septembre 2008

Endroit : Théâtre du Petit Champlain, 68 rue du Petit Champlain, Québec (Québec) G1K 4H4 billetterie : 418-692-2631

Heure : 19h30

Un des grands rendez-vous culturel de l’automne, le Gala du Lys Blues 2008 saura vous faire vibrer sur des rythmes fous. Présenté au Théâtre du Petit Champlain, cette année, il met en scène des artistes québécois de partout en province. Ce Gala a déjà été applaudit par plus de 5 000 spectateurs de tous les coins du Québec.

Lloyd Gregory and his band featuring Nicolas Bearde to appear at Biscuits and Blues - Sunday 7/27/08 8PM and 10PM

Lloyd Gregory is enchanting audiences with his full rich sound!

Lloyd Gregory and Band will appear at Biscuits and Blues 7/27/08, 8PM and 10PM

Lloyd Gregory and his band will

feature Nicolas Bearde

will be performing at

America’s Nr. 1 Blues Club

Biscuits & Blues

San Francisco

Sunday July 27, 8PM and 10PM

$12 per ticket

About Lloyd Gregory

When you think of that certain style of classic jazz guitar that is smooth, soulful, melodic, flowing and immediately likeable, you think of names like Wes Montgomery, Barney Kessel, George Benson, Kenny Burrell, Earl Klugh and Larry Carlton. Now Lloyd Gregory has taken his place on that list of illustrious jazz guitarists. On his fourth album, Free Fallin, Gregory tips his hat to those who influenced him while carving out his own distinctive style that also includes hints of his R&B roots. Lloyd Gregory is taking out time from recording his next album to play at Biscuit & Blues in San Francisco featuring great international and local artists, such as Tony Lindsay, Kenny Washington, Frankye Kelly, Fred Ross, Darlene Coleman, Janice Maxine, Glen Pearson, etc.

MORE

About Biscuits and Blues

Located in the heart of San Francisco's historic Theater District, Biscuits and Blues is a West Coast musical landmark where every seat

provides an up-close, absolutely live music experience. Our all-ages supper club is a great place for the whole family to encounter

America's greatest musical heritage! Biscuits and Blues offers world-class musical venues with great food and a friendly family-oriented atmosphere that is perfect for a romantic date or a family outing. It is located in down-town San Francisco with easy access and lot’s of parking in the neighborhood.

Listening Party : The Unmistakable Mick Hucknall Honors Legend Bobby Blue Bland

"RED" SINGS "BLUE"

Solo Debut From Simply Red's Mick Hucknall Pays Tribute To Bobby "Blue"
Bland On Rhino CD Due June 17

LOS ANGELES -- One of the most distinctive vocalists in Britain tips his
hat to one of the greatest from the American South with the June 17
release of Mick Hucknall's TRIBUTE TO BOBBY. The solo debut from the
leader of Simply Red features sizzling versions of songs popularized by
the great Bobby "Blue" Bland.

TRIBUTE TO BOBBY was recorded last summer at Hucknall's home studio in
England with longtime collaborator Andy Wright behind the boards. While
the12 songs on the new collection benefit from 21st-century production,
Mick's worldly wise delivery ensures they remain grounded in the
emotional honesty of the blues. TRIBUTE TO BOBBY will be available at
all physical retail outlets and at www.rhino.com for a suggested list
price of $18.98, or online from all digital outlets for $9.99.

Fittingly, TRIBUTE TO BOBBY opens with Hucknall's insistent take on
"Farther Up The Road," which had been Bland's first #1 R&B single in
1957. The CD draws heavily from the legendary bluesman's '50s and '60s hits
for Duke Records, including "Stormy Monday Blues," "Chains Of Love," "I
Pity The Fool," and "Cry, Cry, Cry." It's a body of work that is among
the most respected in blues history, and Mick's passionate
interpretations of these classics do them full justice.

From Simply Red's first U.S. #1 single, 1986's "Holding Back The Years,"
it was clear that Mick Hucknall possessed one of pop's great voices;
TRIBUTE TO BOBBY makes it clear that his contemporary take on soul has
always been two steps from the blues. The heartache and resolution in
the music of Bobby "Blue" Bland are fixtures of modern life in the urban
jungle -- whether that be Bobby's home turf of Memphis or Mick's in
Manchester.

"His music has this sophistication to it, a jazz tinge," explains
Hucknall of his affinity for Bland's brand of blues. "There's also the
darkness of his lyrics -- Bobby sings with a really twisted pain and
sorrow. He's one of the vocalists who influenced my singing style long
before I became a slave to pop success."

TRIBUTE TO BOBBY

Track Listing
1. "Farther Up The Road"
2. "Ain't That Lovin' You"
3. "I'm Too Far Gone (To Turn Around)"
4. "Poverty"
5. "Yolanda"
6. "Stormy Monday Blues"
7. "I Wouldn't Treat A Dog (The Way You Treated Me)"
8. "I'll Take Care Of You"
9. "Chains Of Love"
10. "I Pity The Fool"
11. "Cry, Cry, Cry"
12. "Lead Me On"

Lineup Announced for 2008 IH Mississippi Valley Blues Festival

“Queen of the Blues” Koko Taylor

Headlines 2008 IH Mississippi Valley Blues Festival Lineup

Festival Highlights Include Kids Teaching Kids the Blues

and a Journey Back to the Roots of the Blues

DAVENPORT, Iowa-Grammy®-award winner Koko Taylor, dubbed “The Queen of Blues” for having won more Blues Awards than any other blues artist-male or female, returns to the 2008 IH Mississippi Valley Blues Festival.

The Mississippi Valley Blues Society (MVBS) has announced the festival lineup of 28 acts performing on two stages, July 3 - 5, in Davenport, Iowa. Produced by MVBS and presented by IH Mississippi Valley Credit Union, the event draws nearly 15,000 to LeClaire Park-a blues-inspiring outdoor venue located at the crossroads of U.S. Route 61, known as the Blues Highway, and the Mississippi River-for three days of music, food, fun and friends.

“People loved having blues legend Koko Taylor play our festival in 2001, and we’re certain this firecracker of a performer will light up the bandshell stage again this Fourth of July,” said Karen McFarland, co-chair of the MVBS Entertainment Committee, which books the acts for the Festival. “And no matter what day, time or stage you find yourself at during our three-day fest, you will be entertained by very talented musicians-from Grammy-award- winning headliners like Koko to opening acts like Kilborn Alley Blues Band, who was nominated for their first Blues Award this year.”

In addition to Taylor, other headliners include Elvin Bishop, Otis Taylor and the Black Banjo Project, Billy Boy Arnold with Jody Williams, The Holmes Brothers and Denise LaSalle.

Former Iowa farm boy Elvin Bishop, known to the mainstream for his one-hit wonder, “Fooled Around and Fell in Love,” is known to blues fans as a founding member of the legendary Paul Butterfield Blues Band and his “Booty Bumpin” resurgence in the blues scene after his daughter’s murder.

Blues Fest/2
“Bishop always seems to engage the audience with his performance, and he’s not the only crossover artist playing our festival this year,” continues McFarland. “Donald Kinsey has crossed over from blues to heavy metal to reggae and back to blues again.” Donald Kinsey, the front man for The Kinsey Report, started his blues career with Big Daddy Kinsey and Albert King. In the ‘70s he formed the heavy metal band White Lighting before switching genres again to tour and record with reggae legends Bob Marley and Peter Tosh, and then returning to the blues in 1984 to form the Kinsey Report.

“We’re really excited about our daylong focus on ‘Roots of the Blues’ on Thursday’s tent stage,” said McFarland. “The use of blue notes, call-and-response format and primitive instruments-such as the banjo and diddley-bow-will be featured in performances by artists specializing in the origin of blues music and its subgenres.”

Ben Prestage opens this special daylong tribute to the “Roots of the Blues” performing on the diddley-bow. Steve James and Del Rey will play a hillbilly, smarty-pants style of old country blues, and the Carolina Chocolate Drops, an African-American string band, will play the rich tradition of fiddle and banjo music from Carolinas’ Piedmont. Otis Taylor and the Black Banjo Project, featuring Guy Davis, close the day by tracing the banjo’s history back four centuries to the African xalam.

Other artists playing at this year’s festival include: Kal David; Little Bobby and the Storm; Phil Guy; Teresa James; Jimmy Thackery and the Drivers; Kent Burnside and New Generation; Paul Geremia; Big Pete Pearson and the Rhythm Room Allstars; Great Black Music Ensemble; Alexis P. Suter; John Nemeth with Junior Watson; Tinsley Ellis; Boo Hanks; Doug MacLeod; Marie Knight; and Big George Brock.

“Kids will have a special treat at this year’s BlueSKool,” says McFarland. “Kids who received lessons and tips at the River Music Experience’s Winter Blues Academy will assist blues artists Hal Reed and Ellis Kell teach other kids the blues at this year’s festival, and then they’re going to jam together.”

The mission of the Mississippi Valley Blues Society is to educate the public about the native art form of blues-related music and to keep the blues alive. The IH Mississippi Valley Blues Festival offers adults free workshops and children BlueSKool to get hands-on instruction from blues artists. The festival also includes a free photo exhibit of blues artists and past festivals at Union Station across the street from the festival.

Blues Fest/3

RiverRoad Lifetime Achievement Awards will be presented this year to soul blues artist and businesswoman Denise LaSalle and Chicago harp-master Billy Boy Arnold. The Mississippi Valley Blues Society annually presents this award to recognize artists who have devoted their lives to bringing river blues, music that runs deep with soul, to anyone they meet on life’s highway. The artists may not have been as recognized as the ‘stars,’ but they are the true legends of the blues and the art form’s living history.

Now in its 24th year, this blues festival is one of the longest-running in the country and is operated by an all-volunteer nonprofit group dedicated to providing top-notch entertainment at a reasonable price. According to the Quad Cities Convention and Visitors Bureau, the festival’s economic benefit to the area is $2.5 million.

Sponsors for this year’s festival include presenting sponsor IH Mississippi Valley Credit Union, and blues supporters River Cities’ Reader, the Illinois Arts Council, Scott County Regional Authority, Sam’s Club, National Reso-Phonic Guitars, The City of Davenport, KALA 88.5 & 105.5, The Lodge Hotel & Conference Center, AAA Rents and ME&V Advertising & Consulting.

“For the fourth straight year, we are proud to partner with the Mississippi Valley Blues Society as the festival’s presenting sponsor,” says Dennis Hall, president, IH Mississippi Valley Credit Union. "We believe in supporting organizations and events that make the Quad Cities a great place to live and work. This family event over the fourth of July is a great addition to our community.”

Advance three-day passes are available for $40 and must be purchased before June 30. Advance one-day passes are $15 per day for MVBS and IH Mississippi Valley Credit Union members. Children ages 14 and under will be admitted free if accompanied by an adult with a ticket. Advance tickets may be purchased at all IH Mississippi Valley Credit Union branches, at the River Center/Adler Theatre box office in Davenport, or through Ticketmaster. One-day tickets will be sold at the gate for $18.

About IH Mississippi Valley Blues Festival
For 24 years, the IH Mississippi Blues Festival has attracted local, regional and national legendary blues acts, making it one of the most highly regarded blues festivals in the nation. Musicians performing at past festivals include Buddy Guy, Dr. John, James Cotton, Clarence “Gatemouth” Brown and John Lee Hooker. For more information about the festival, artists and lodging, please visit http://www.mvbs.org or call 563-32-BLUES.

Reno-Tahoe Blues Fest Tickets Now on Sale

TICKETS ON SALE FOR 4^th ANNUAL RENO-TAHOE BLUES FEST

Gladys Knight, The Whispers and Jonny Lang Headline the Festival

RENO, Nev. —Named “Festival of the Year” by the Bay Area Blues Society in 2005, the Reno-Tahoe Blues Fest continues to earn the title by bringing in some of the biggest names in the business including 2008 headliners Gladys Knight, The Whispers and Jonny Lang to celebrate the history, culture and spirit of the blues. Tickets are available online at www.RenoTahoeBluesFest.com for the 4^th annual festival scheduled for Aug. 16-17, 2008 at Rancho San Rafael Park in Reno, Nev.

“Each year the Reno-Tahoe Blues Fest continues to grow, showcasing different artists, more amenities and exciting new opportunities for blues fans to really immerse themselves in music,” said Charles McNeely, president of the Reno-Tahoe Blues Fest and Reno City Manager. “This year, as in years past, we’re continuing to provide one of the best blues experiences on the West Coast bringing both veteran musicians as well as relative newcomers to entertain and delight Reno-Tahoe audiences.”

The festival’s closes on Sunday with headliner Gladys Knight who has more than four decades of chart-topping hits and is a six-time Grammy Award winner. Critics applaud Knight’s smooth vocals and heartfelt emotion which lend to a variety of musical styles from rhythm and blues to soul, gospel to Motown and beyond. Originally singing with her brother and cousins as Gladys Knight and the Pips, Knight earned a level of superstardom with the smash hit “Midnight Train to Georgia.” Recent album releases highlight her amazing diversity, with ballads, jazz standards and gospel songs all touched on in albums including “At Last” and “Before Me.”

Veteran R&B group The Whispers co-headline Saturday’s performances bringing more than four decades of hits to the stage including “Rock Steady,” “Lady,” “Let’s Go All the Way” and their biggest hit “And The Beat Goes On.” Jonny Lang also co-headlines the Saturday festival schedule. Releasing his solo debut “Lie to Me” at just 15, Jonny Lang shot into the limelight of blues music with what U.S. News and World Report calls “the voice of a grizzled blues veteran.” The Grammy-nominated Lang has polished his skills alongside blues heavyweights B.B. King and Buddy Guy and continues to churn out searing blues and rock and roll including 2006’s “Turn Around,” his fifth album.

In addition to the daily headline performers, the 2008 Reno-Tahoe Blues Fest line-up features Delta-bluesman Bobby Rush, soul and gospel legend Mavis Staples and others including Mel Waiters, Latimore, E.C. Scott, Betty Wright, Ernie Johnson and more. Daily tickets include access to all performances and VIP packages are available to attend both days.

Annually the festival draws more than 10,000 attendees to Reno’s Rancho San Rafael Park for two days of musical performances beginning at 12 p.m. and continuing into the twilight. The ongoing entertainment is complemented by a variety of dining options including classic Southern specialties and ice-cold beverages that combine to provide a first-class blues experience.

Tickets for the Reno-Tahoe Blues Fest are on sale now, with one-day tickets starting at just $58 and two-day value tickets from $106. VIP passes, valid for both days of the Festival, are just $210 and offer premium seating for the entire event. Tickets purchased prior to June 15, 2008 qualify for a 10 percent early bird discount. Group pricing and Platinum and Blues Cabana ticket packages are also available.

For more information, visit the Reno-Tahoe Blues Fest online at www.RenoTahoeBluesFest.com or call 775-857-3378. Tickets are on sale now, online at www.Ticketmaster.com, or by phone at 775-787-8497.

The Reno-Tahoe Blues Fest, founded in 2005, was created to bring world-class blues to the Reno-Tahoe region and to celebrate the history, culture and spirit of the blues. Staged annually at Reno’s Rancho San Rafael Park, the two-day festival attracts audiences from around the country to hear some of the biggest names in blues including Etta James, Clarence Carter, Buddy Guy, Bobby Rush, Keb Mo, Bobby Blue Band and others. Established as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, the Reno-Tahoe Blues Fest supports music education for youth in the Reno-Tahoe area through a scholarship program and ongoing assistance for school music equipment purchases and jazz band programs. Funds for the festival are raised through corporate sponsorships and ticket sales.

Hundreds of young musicians rush into the 3rd annual Blues Camp auditions

Montreal, Tuesday, April 29, 2008 —Marguerite‑De Lajemmerais high school flew its flags last weekend — all of them blue! The school hosted the 3rd annual auditions for the upcoming Blues Camp presented by TD Canada Trust, welcoming over 300 music-mad teenagers who flocked in to display their talents on their chosen instrument or on vocals. All the energetic young participants were eager for the opportunity to earn one of 50 final spots and showcase their technique and musical knowledge at this utterly unique and entirely free Blues Camp, presented from June 29 to July 6, 2008 by the Montreal Musical Instrument Show (SIMM) and the Festival International de Jazz de Montréal.

The Kids Are Alright!

Say what you will about the younger generation, but if we can judge by the newcomers who shared their passion for music at last weekend's auditions, then the kids are alright! Hundreds of budding young 13-17-year-old musicians were classified according to age and level of musical knowledge before facing a handful of music professionals and professors. Those selected in the first round— including, for the first time, a girl on bass—were then interviewed and given opportunity to speak about their interests and passions. In every category (guitar, bass, drums, keyboards, wind instruments, harmonica and vocals), Blues Camp organizers and judges were utterly thrilled by what they heard from the talent on display. And if you believe in music, and the undiscovered magic that lies in the power of youth, be advised: the vigour, freshness and talent displayed at this third annual audition won't be kept secret for very long…

The Blues Camp presents 50 young people showcasing their passion and devotion to the blues, on their chosen instrument, for seven inspiring days—all free of charge—from June 29 to July 6, 2008, at Cégep du Vieux Montréal near the Festival site. All participants will take part in the closing Blues Camp concert for a live audience on July 6, from the TD Canada Trust stage, as part of the Festival International de Jazz de Montréal.

The Blues Camp offers its warmest thanks to TD Canada Trust, whose continued proud sponsorship and presentation hit just the right note, making this musical dream camp possible. Our sincere thanks also go out to partners Steve's Music Store, Mel Bay, Aebersold, Vox, Pearl, Marshall, Korg, Phonic and Markbass, cégep du Vieux Montréal, CIBL Radio‑Montréal 101.5, Couleur Jazz 91.9 and the Canada Council for the Arts.

[Montreal] Register now for auditions leading up to the 3rd annual free Blues Camp presented by TD Canada Trust!

Registrations until April 24, 2008

Open to all 13-17-year-old musicians!

Montreal, Tuesday, February 19, 2008 - Registration begins today for the 3rd edition of the already renowned Blues Camp, presented once again this year by TD Canada Trust! We're calling on all 13 to 17-year old aspiring Quebec musicians to register before April 24, 2008 for auditions and the chance to join the lucky crew who will participate in the free day camp presented as part of the Montreal Musical Instrument Show (SIMM) and the Festival International de Jazz de Montreal. It's a unique opportunity to hone their musical understanding, perfect their technical skills, and finally, to star on one of the Festival's outdoor stages! Just visit the website at campdeblues.com and register before Thursday, April 24, 2008 at 5 p.m. Auditions will follow on April 26 and 27 at Marguerite-De Lajemmerais school in Montreal.

A musical day camp-100% free!

Since its first edition, the Blues Camp presented by TD Canada Trust and created by the SIMM in accordance with its mission to empower teenage musicians through practical and public instruction, was an immediate and immense success! Once again this year, 55 young musicians bursting with knowledge, talent and passion will be chosen to attend the seven-day musical day camp, where they can improve their technique, learn the blues basics and the artistic process, compose, learn to be a part of a group and benefit from exclusive courses and workshops offered by professors, professionals and celebrated artists. Once formed into a band, they will have the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to climb onto the Festival's TD Canada Trust stage and show the whole world what they've learned!

How to sign up:

Simply log on to the Blues Camp website, campdeblues.com, and register before April 24 by 5 p.m. Young candidates must specify their chosen instrument from the list of those eligible for inclusion at the camp (guitar, bass, drums, keyboards, wind instruments, harmonica, voice) and bring their talent and passion to this free program. 55 young musicians who dream in blue will be selected during an audition to be held in Montreal on April 26 or 27. The Blues Camp, scheduled from June 29 to July 6, will once again be held at cégep du Vieux Montréal, close to the Festival International de Jazz de Montréal site.

Keep this calendar handy:

Registration period: from February 19 to April 24, 2008, by 5 p.m.

Auditions: April 26 and 27, at Marguerite-De Lajemmerais school in Montreal

Blues Camp: from June 29 to July 6, 2008

Performance at the Festival International de Jazz de Montréal: July 6

The SIMM: Complexe Desjardins, from Thursday, July 3 to Sunday, July 6

The Montreal Guitar Show: Grand Salon, Hyatt Regency Montréal, from Friday, June 27, to Sunday, June 29, 2008

The Blues Camp offers its warmest thanks to TD Canada Trust, whose continued proud sponsorship and presentation hit just the right note, making this musical dream camp possible. Our sincere thanks also go out to partners Steve's Music Store, Mel Bay, Vox, Pearl, Marshall, Korg, Phonic and Markbass, and cégep du Vieux Montréal, CIBL Radio-Montréal 101.5 and Couleur Jazz 91.9.

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Source

Festival International de Jazz de Montréal
514 523-3378

Information (Media)

Marie-Eve Boisvert
Senior director of media relations
514 523-3378, ext. 5666
marie-eve.boisvert@equipespectra.ca

Greg Kitzler
publicist
514 523-3378, ext. 5622
greg.kitzler@equipespectra.ca

Information (Public)

Site Internet : campdeblues.com