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John Fogerty at 80: Still Rockin’ All Over the World

John Fogerty performing at the Salem Civic Center on 11/1/25. Photo courtesy of Sammy Oakey.

In 1975, John Fogerty was 30 years old and wrote the song “Rockin’ All Over the World.” Now in 2025, the former singer-songwriter, guitarist and front man for Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR) is 80 and still performing rock concerts.

Earlier this month on November 1st, I had the pleasure of attending one of Fogerty’s concerts at the Salem Civic Center in Virginia with my wife Priscilla, daughter Amy and friend David Hollandsworth.

Photo of the record sleeve of my Double-A-sided 45-rpm “Up Around the Bend” and “Run Through the Jungle” that I bought in May 1970. These two songs were hits, and I still own the record here in 2025.

With this latest article, I will be giving a concert review of Fogerty’s Salem show and sharing short video clips of songs that I recorded.  I also have included reviews from some of my family, friends and other acquaintances who went to see the former CCR frontman on 11/1/25.

Fogerty is touring this fall to support his new 2025 solo album, “Legacy: The Creedence Clearwater Revival Years” that was released in August.  This 20-track LP features re-recordings of music that was written for his former CCR band during the years of 1968 to 1972.

The new album is also referred to as “John’s Version” in which Fogerty took a page out of Taylor Swift’s playbook with the re-recording of new versions of previously written catalog songs, (Taylor’s Version).

The backstory of how “Legacy: The Creedence Clearwater Revival Years” came about is interesting.  Fogerty’s journey to reclaim his own music that was full of trials, toils and tribulations.

From David Hollandsworth’s music library: Photo of his various CCR vinyl albums collected from around the world.

 When CCR signed a revision of their two-year-old recording contract with Fantasy Records in 1969, Fogerty lost music publishing, songwriting, master recording rights, and copyright ownership for the songs that he had written.

After CCR broke up in 1972, Fogerty refused to play his own songs for many years. After a 50-year struggle, with multiple lawsuits to re-gain control over his music, Fogerty finally was able to purchase a majority stake in the publishing rights to his songs from Concord Records in 2023.

John Fogerty performing at the Salem Civic Center on 11/1/25. Photo courtesy of Sammy Oakey.

During his Salem, Virginia concert, Fogerty credited his wife Julie with helping to gain control of the CCR era of music that he penned. The former lead singer of CCR was genuinely happy to sing and play his beloved songs to the crowd in attendance.

Below is a video clip of Fogerty being interviewed on the Dan Patrick Show on August 22, 2025, the day “Legacy: The Creedence Clearwater Revival Years” was released.  During this video, Fogerty shares about getting his music back and how his song “Centerfield” was written.

Another recent TV appearance that Fogerty made was on the Late Show with Stephen Colbert. In the video clip below, the artist shares about getting his songwriting catalog back and other topics with the famed night time talk show host and comedian.

I became a CCR fan in 1969 and just after my birthday that year, I bought my first CCR record: the Double-A-Sided 45-rpm “Bad Moon Rising” and “Lodi” single. Later in ’69, I purchased another double-sided smash single: “Fortunate Son” and “Down on the Corner.”

Photo of my Double-A-Sided 45-rpm “Bad Moon Rising” and “Lodi” single that I purchased back in the summer of ’69 and that I still own here in 2025.

My parents also helped me to add CCR albums to my record collection.  They gifted me “Green River” for Christmas in 1969 and “Cosmos Factory” at holiday time the following year.  After Paul McCartney announced the Beatles had broken up in April ’70, CCR became my favorite rock band.

DJ Dave’s second vinyl copy of “Cosmo’s Factory.” This album was given to me by my daughters as a Father’s Day gift in 2017. Also in the photo is my dog Penny Lane who is admiring the legendary CCR LP.

Ever since my teen years, I have always loved the songs John Fogerty wrote and recorded with CCR, as well as his Blue Ridge Rangers project and music from when the singer-songwriter became a solo artist.

Seeing Fogerty performing live on stage was thrilling.  This was my second show by the former CCR lead singer:  My wife, Priscilla, and I first saw him at the historic Wolf Trap National Park Amphitheater in Vienna, Virginia during 2014.

Photo of the record sleeve of the Double-A-sided 45 rpm “Who’ll Stop the Rain” and “Travelin’ Band” single that I bought during the winter of 1970 and I still own the record here in 2025.

At the Salem show I attended, 19 songs were performed: 14 Creedence Clearwater Revival songs, 4 Fogerty solo tunes and one selection from the Golliwogs, which was the name of Fogerty’s band from 1964 to 1967 before the group changed their name to CCR. The entire listing of songs can be found here at Setlist FM Dot Com.

Video that I recorded of “Have You Ever Seen the Rain” by John Fogerty during his Salem Civic Center concert on 11/1/25.

As a side note: While I realize that Fogerty wouldn’t perform every single top 40 hit that he had made with CCR, during his 2025 tour, below are 5 songs I wished had been part of the setlist:

  • Run Through the Jungle
  • Commotion
  • Sweet Hitch-Hiker
  • Long as I Can See the Light
  • Hey Tonight
Photo of my record sleeve of the Double-A-Sided 45 rpm “Fortunate Son” and “Down on the Corner” single that I bought during the fall of 1969 and I still own the record here in 2025.

Before John took the stage in a flannel shirt and blue jeans, the band Hearty Har opened the show with a 30-minute set.  The two main members of this group are Shane and Tyler Fogerty, who are the sons of John and Julie Fogerty.

Video that I recorded of “Old Man Down the Road” by John Fogerty during his Salem Civic Center concert on 11/1/25.

As for John’s own band, it’s a family affair: Tyler and Shane Fogerty also play in their father’s ensemble. Also in attendance at this show was John’s wife, Julie Fogerty. She was on stage right while the band played, taking photos and recording videos throughout the performance.

Other members of Fogerty’s band included drummer Richard Millsap, bass guitarist Jesse Wilson, keyboardist Doug Lamothe, along with sax player Rob Stone.

John Fogerty performing at the Salem Civic Center on 11/1/25. Photo courtesy of Sammy Oakey.

Before I share my review on Fogerty’s Salem show, I am including comments below from my daughter, some friends and other acquaintances who also attended the show.

Photo of my 2nd vinyl copy of “Cosmo’s Factory” that I received as a Father’s Day gift in 2017. This is my favorite CCR album of all-time.

Amy Woodson:

“Teach your kids the classics! Growing up, my Dad played for me and my sisters a cornucopia of hits from years gone by. The songs of legends like John Fogerty and Creedence Clearwater Revival accompanied road trips, practice pick-ups, and Saturday morning shenanigans. All three of us liked to tease him and insist there was a “bathroom on the right” instead of a “Bad Moon Rising.”

For me, seeing John Fogerty live harkens back to the feeling of childhood wonderment and hearing a great tune for the first time. No song represents those emotions better than “Lookin’ Out my Backdoor,” my favorite moment of the concert. There’s something about the interplay of guitar, lyrics, and Fogerty’s nonpareil tone that stirs up my happiest imaginations. “Bother me tomorrow, today, I’ll buy no sorrows!”

Video that I recorded of “Who’ll Stop the Rain” by John Fogerty during his Salem Civic Center concert on 11/1/25.

David Hollandsworth:

“It was the summer of 1970. I had just finished 7th grade and we had recently moved to the city of Monterey, Mexico, where there was an AM pop station called XERJ that played American top 40 music. Each afternoon they had a 30-minute show featuring the most popular rock band in the world at the time – CCR.

It was there that I was introduced to CCR and would sit by the radio every afternoon. They became my favorite band. They still are. The first two CCR records I ever bought were two, 7” 33 rpm EPs with four songs each. 4 song EPs with nice picture sleeves were common in Mexico. “Cosmos Factory” had just been released that July so I bought it along with “Willy and the Poor Boys” – my first LPs! Sadly, I never got to see CCR in their heyday.”

From David Hollandsworth’s music library: Photo with one of the first CCR 33 rpm EPs that he bought in 1970.

  Hollandsworth continues, “Fast forward 55 years, I was finally able to see the mastermind behind all their songs. Of all places, Fogerty came to Salem, just 10 minutes from my house! There was no way I was going to miss that! At 80 years of age, I was shocked at his energy level and how he moved around the stage like he was 30 years younger!  His voice was perhaps a little less full than in 1970 but he was still fantastic. The guy can still play a mean guitar, too! It was fun seeing him playing alongside his two sons while his wife was off to the side of the stage taking videos.

 I also noticed the many times he changed to a different guitar for different songs. It’s hard to pick a favorite song that he did that night but the crowd really responded to “Have You Ever Seen the Rain”, his most played song on Spotify. I loved the jams on “Keep on Chooglin’” and “The Old Man Down the Road” with he and his son, Shane, trading guitar solos. Looked like they were having a blast! So, yeah, it took 55 years, but I was satisfied to finally see one of my musical heroes from the past. He gave us 90 minutes of pure classic rock magic! Keep on chooglin’, John!”

From David Hollandsworth’s music library: Photo with one of the first CCR 33 rpm EPs that he bought in 1970.

Sammy Oakey:

“While I’m more of an average fan of CCR than an avid one, I know an icon when I see one, and John Fogerty’s visit to the Roanoke Valley would be an ideal time to view this rocker. He certainly didn’t disappoint, as his voice, stage banter, and movements all bellied a man half his age. Mixing up his Creedence material with his solo numbers, Fogerty had the crowd in the palm of his hand for his 90 minutes onstage. His band, which included two of his sons, were white hot and electrified the rock faithful who knew most of the lyrics of his songs. I personally enjoyed his solo material the best, and especially loved “Centerfield” (complete with a combination baseball bat/guitar!) and “Rock ‘n Roll Girls” (with a sizzling sax solo!).”

Video that I recorded of “Born on the Bayou” by John Fogerty during his Salem Civic Center concert on 11/1/25.

 Oakey continues, “Fogerty commented several times about how grateful he was to his wife for helping him regain the rights to his songs as well as finding and purchasing a guitar he had played in CCR over 55 years ago. He truly seems to be at a good place in his life, and he shared that with the Fogerty faithful who showed up. I came to the show expecting to see an aging rocker attempt to keep his career alive. I left the Salem Civic Center realizing that John Fogerty is one of those musicians who truly get better with age.

John Fogerty performing at the Salem Civic Center on 11/1/25. Photo courtesy of Sammy Oakey.

Ashley McGinnis Duffy:  Roanoke, Virginia  

I grew up listening to John Fogerty and Creedence Clearwater Revival with my dad, so their music has always been a big part of my life. I bought tickets for my dad’s birthday this year, and the concert was absolutely amazing. We loved every minute of it and especially enjoyed hearing the stories behind how some of the songs were written. My favorite song of the night was Fortunate Son. It’s one of my dad’s all-time favorites, and hearing it live together was a moment I’ll never forget.

Robert McGinnis:  Roanoke, Virginia

CCR is the best band that I’ve ever listen to. I like all of Fogerty’s songs. It was one of the best concerts I’ve ever attended. My favorite song is Fortunate Son.

John Fogerty performing at the Salem Civic Center on 11/1/25. Photo courtesy of Sammy Oakey.

Transitioning from comments by others to my own review, it was a magical night for me being at Fogerty’s show.

Before Fogerty’s entrance on stage, there was a superb video clip shown that highlighted the singer-songwriter’s musical career, chronicling the Creedence Clearwater Revival years and his solo career.  This clip was an outstanding way to start the show.

One of the things that I admired about John Fogerty that night was his genuine expressions of gratitude to the audience, giving appreciation to his fans for their dedication sticking with the artist, through trials and tribulations.

Video that I recorded of “Proud Mary” by John Fogerty during his Salem Civic Center concert on 11/1/25.

During other breaks between songs, Fogerty gave recognition and respect to his sons Shane and Tyler for being trusted musicians in his band. The former CCR singer-songwriter truly seemed extremely happy talking about his two adult sons to the audience.

John Fogerty also acknowledged his wife, Julie multiple times with praise. He credited her as his soul mate, a solid rock in their marriage of 34 years and the driving force behind helping John be successful retrieving all the songs he wrote as a member of CCR.

“Bad Moon Rising opened up the show while “Fortunate Son” was the last song before the two-song encore.  “Travelin’ Band” and “Proud Mary” capped a perfect ending to this excellent performance.

Video that I recorded of “Up Around the Bend” by John Fogerty during his Salem Civic Center concert on 11/1/25.

The CCR leader was full of high-energy, had a vibrant stage presence and provided excellent guitar playing. He ripped ripped through his CCR and solo hits with passion. His connection with the audience was genuine, as he played memorable guitar riffs and danced all around the stage like a person half his age.

I found it remarkable that Fogerty’s vocals were still strong as when he was cracking out hits with CCR in the 60s and 70s. His distinctive tenor voice was clear, rich, resonant and powerful, singing songs about sorrow, pain, anger, joy and other emotional topics.

Photo of my record sleeve of the Double-A-sided 45 rpm “Lookin’ Out My Backdoor” and “Long As I Can See the Light” single that I bought in the summer of 1970 and that I still own here in 2025.

In my humble opinion, Fogerty has written some of the greatest songs ever recorded. I loved hearing the singer-songwriter perform some of my favorite lines from his CCR penned odes.

  • “I went down Virginia, seekin’ shelter from the storm”
  • “Oh lord, I’m stuck in Lodi again”
  • “I can still hear my ol’ hound dog barkin’, chasin’ down a hoodoo there, born on the bayou”
  •  “Cleaned a lot of plates in Memphis, pumped a lot of ‘pane down in New Orleans”
  •  “737 coming out of the sky, won’t you take me down to Memphis on a midnight ride?”
Video that I made of “Travelin’ Band” by John Fogerty during his Salem Civic Center concert 11/1/25.

Hearing Fogerty’s songs in concert reminded me on how his style of music blended rock, pop, blues, folk and country together. Some music historians label the CCR sound “Swamp Rock” or “Roots Rock.” Fogerty wrote about common everyday American experiences in realistic terms.

While I won’t comment on all 19 songs performed in Salem, I will share my top favorite songs played by Fogerty’s band:  5 CCR tracks and 1 solo hit.

Video that I recorded of “Centerfield” by John Fogerty during his Salem Civic Center concert on 11/1/25.

My favorite solo John Fogerty song of all-time is “Centerfield.”  I rate this legendary sports anthem as the third best top 40 single of 1985. In 2010, Fogerty became the only musician ever to be celebrated at a National Baseball Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony when “Centerfield” was honored.

John Fogerty performing at the Salem Civic Center on 11/1/25. Photo courtesy of Sammy Oakey.

Obviously, I loved many of the CCR songs played at the show.  But I am only going to comment on my top 5 favorite CCR Fogerty songs of all-time that were performed at the show.

Another photo of DJ Dave posing with my favorite CCR LP: “Cosmo’s Factory.” This was taken in July 2020 during the 50th anniversary of this legendary album release.

5.  Lodi

“If I only had a dollar, For ev’ry song I’ve sung, Ev’ry time I’ve had to play, While people sat there drunk, You know, I’d catch the next train, Back to where I live, Oh Lord, I’m stuck in Lodi again”

Lyrics describe a struggling musician whose career has landed him playing gigs in the town of Lodi, California. After playing in local bars in that town, the musician is stuck in Lodi and doesn’t have enough money to leave that place behind.

I rate the song “Lodi” among the best county rock songs from the 60s and 70s.

Video that I made of “Lodi” by John Fogerty during his Salem Civic Center concert on 11/1/25.

4.  Bad Moon Rising

“I see the bad moon a-rising, I see trouble on the way, I see earthquakes and lightning, I see bad times today, Don’t go around tonight, Well, it’s bound to take your life, There’s a bad moon on the rise.”

I could have sworn that I heard Fogerty sing, “There’s a bathroom on the right” during one of the chorus’ on “Bad Moon Rising.”  I consider this song as one of the 10 best singles from back in the summer of ’69.

Video that I recorded of “Bad Moon Rising” by John Fogerty during his Salem Civic Center concert 11/1/25.

3.  Green River

“I can hear the bullfrog callin’ me, aw, Wonder if my rope’s still hangin’ to the tree, aw, Love to kick my feet way down the shallow water, Shoofly, dragonfly, get back to mother, Pick up a flat rock, skip it across Green River.”

Fogerty’s up-tempo rocker was played by CCR at Woodstock in August 1969. I place it as my favorite song that CCR performed at the peace & love music festival over 56 years ago.

Video that I made of “Green River” by John Fogerty during his Salem Civic Center concert 11/1/25.

2.  Lookin’ Out My Backdoor

“Forward troubles Illinois, lock the front door, oh, boy, Look at all the happy creatures dancin’ on the lawn, Bother me tomorrow, today, I’ll buy no sorrows, Doo, doo, doo, lookin’ out my back door.”

My second favorite CCR song is “Lookin’ Out My Backdoor.” And this track is on my top-rated Fogerty/CCR album of all-time: “Cosmo’s Factory.”  It is among my favorite singles of 1970.

Video that I made of “Lookin’ Out My Backdoor” by John Fogerty during his Salem Civic Center concert on 11/1/25.
  1.  Fortunate Son

“Yeah-yeah, some folks inherit star-spangled eyes, Hoo, they send you down to war, Lord, And when you ask ’em, “How much should we give?”, Hoo, they only answer, “More, more, more, more”, It ain’t me, it ain’t me, I ain’t no military son, son, Lord, It ain’t me, it ain’t me, I ain’t no fortunate one.”

My 45-rpm single of “Fortunate Son” and “Down on the Corner” that I bought in the fall of 1969 and still own this record here in 2025.

“Fortunate Son” is my favorite CCR track of all-time. This 1969 anthem became a rallying cry against the Vietnam War and individuals from affluent backgrounds. It is now considered John Fogerty’s signature song.

The first time I heard this song on WROV Roanoke in the fall of 1969, I immediately loved Fogerty’s protest anthem.  Soon thereafter, I went to Sears and bought the Double-A-Sided 45-rpm single of “Fortunate Son” and “Down on the Corner.”

Video I made of “Fortunate Son” by John Fogerty at his Salem Civic Center concert on 11/1/25.

On a music blog article that I published last December, I rated “Fortunate Son” as the number 1 best protest and social justice anthem from the 60s and 70s.  For me, “Fortunate Son” is the cream of the crop with Fogerty’s written songs.

I rate “Fortunate Son” as the #1 best protest and social justice anthem from the 60s and 70s.

Overall, it was a wonderful experience to have the opportunity to see Fogerty in concert. His Legacy tour will be continuing into 2026. I would highly recommend going to see the 1993 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee in concert if you have an opportunity.

John Fogerty performing at the Salem Civic Center on 11/1/25. Photo courtesy of Sammy Oakey.

If you were at the Salem November 1, concert like myself, or any other Fogerty 2025 Legacy concerts during the past few months, I would encourage you to share a brief analysis on the show you attended. And for those who are fans of CCR, I welcome your comment on Fogerty’s music.

Without a doubt, I was thrilled to see Fogerty performing most of his CCR hits and selected solo songs. I will forever cherish the opportunity that I had to witness John Fogerty, who is still superbly performing his music at age 80. It was most excellent.  Rock on!

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Music, Virginia Artists, Concert Reviews, Artist Profiles, Pop Music, Contemporary Christian Music, American Idol

Jeslynn Gelaine Music: All My Life I’ve Been a Dreamer

17-year-old Roanoke, Virginia native Jeslynn Gelaine has always been a dreamer.  And one of her dreams became reality just 4 days ago when the singer-songwriter’s debut professional music recording “Calm Me Down” was released as a single.

All photos and videos in this article were provided courtesy of Jeslynn Gelaine unless otherwise noted.

The music artist’s full name is Jeslynn Gelaine Reynolds, and she elected to drop the surname Reynolds at the beginning of her budding musical career.

I asked Reynolds about the significance on using her middle name as a music artist. She responded, “Jeslynn Gelaine is my way of paying tribute to my mom and Mimi, two talented singers who shared a middle name. Following my Mimi’s passing in August 2022, I’m passionate about honoring and carrying her legacy through Gelaine.”

Singing has always been a huge part of Gelaine’s life.  Her mom, Rebecca Reynolds, shared with me that, “Jeslynn has been singing since she could talk and also began singing harmony at age three.” 

Gelaine also traveled on the road and sang with her parents Adam & Rebecca Reynolds in full time evangelical ministry for 7 ½ years when Jeslynn was between the ages of 3 and 10.

In 2018, the Reynolds family settled in the Roanoke Valley and began ministry with Wake the World Church (WTW) in Salem, Virginia. Adam Reynolds is lead pastor while Rebecca Reynolds is minister and worship leader at the church.

Adam and Rebecca Reynolds are also accomplished gospel music singer-songwriters. Their daughter Jeslynn has also been a worship leader with WTW for the past 7 years.

In August, Jeslynn will be starting her senior year in high school as a homeschooled student. I asked Gelaine if she had any plans after she graduates from high school and she replied,” I’m unsure about college, but I have a peace about music. I trust God’s plan and believe he wants me to use my gift full-time.”

Another dream came true for the music artist when she was 15 years old. Jeslynn’s hope of singing on the American Idol reality TV show started almost two years ago.

 In August 2023, Gelaine auditioned virtually in front of producers for a chance to be on American Idol (AI). Her audition was successful that day and Jeslynn was set for the next round of qualification.

On to Nashville in November 2023, Jeslynn went for her audition in front of American Idol’s main judges:  Lionel Richie, Luke Bryan, and Katy Perry. Gelaine selected, “Still Rolling Stones” by Lauren Daigle to sing for her audition.

Jeslynn had another winning performance and received an American Idol “Golden Ticket.”  That meant that Gelaine would be one of just 150 singers going to Hollywood out of over 6,000 other contestants and she would actually be performing on the main AI show.

During Hollywood week, Jeslynn sang “Don’t You Worry ‘Bout a Thing” by Stevie Wonder. She again auditioned in front of the main AI judges Richie, Bryan and Perry.

Before singing the Motown song, Jeslynn addressed the judges with the following quote: “I want to be the next American Idol because I can say that I have truly just dedicated my whole life to music and songwriting. And this means everything to me, and I know this is what God has called me to do and that is why I’m singing on this stage today.”

 While Gelaine didn’t move on in the competition, she received high praise from the judges. After the performance, Katy Perry gave exceptional credit to the Roanoke singer, providing encouragement to Jeslynn who was just 15 at the time of this audition.

I first learned about Gelaine just after the AI “Hollywood Week” episode aired in the spring of 2024. WSLS TV channel 10 Roanoke featured the sensational singer with a news story outlining her musical story and the big dreams she’s accomplished. That feature can be viewed here via WSLS 10.

Around 13 months later, I had the opportunity to meet Jeslynn and her parents Adam and Rebecca Reynolds when Gelaine was performing in concert with the Strawberry Festival at Elmwood Park in Downtown Roanoke. The singer was the headlining artist for this event.

Accompanying Gelaine at her May 3rd Roanoke concert were 4 band members and a background vocalist. Personnel members and instruments played are listed below:

  • Bryan Davis-Piano
  • Eddy Sanders-Bass
  • Tonio Williams-Drums
  • Roger Graves Jr.-Guitar
  • Rebecca Reynolds-Background Vocalist

An unfortunate thing happened on that first Saturday in May 2025:  A big rain storm with thunder and lightning hit downtown Roanoke around 20 minutes into Jeslynn’s show. The Strawberry Festival administrators stopped the concert after just 3 and a half songs were performed.

Obviously, Jeslynn was deeply disappointed about the rain storm and abrupt ending of her concert: she had to make lemonade out of lemons.  Of the songs that Gelaine sang that afternoon, I made short video clips from two of her songs.

This first clip above is an original song Jeslynn wrote called “Song Outta Me”.

The second video I made is of her recently released single, “Calm Me Down.”  

The genesis for the lyrics of “Calm Me Down” came from Jeslynn when she attended a Songhouse summer camp in 2024. Gelaine shares co-writing credit with 4 other individuals who collaborated with her last summer at this music event.

Released just 4 days ago, “Calm Me Down” is available on all streaming platforms and can be purchased via Apple and Amazon music services. The link for Jeslynn’s YouTube channel is here.

On Tuesday July 8, 2025, Gelaine was interviewed on the WDBJ Roanoke TV program called 7@four by the station’s host Melissa Gaona. The WDBJ7 TV conversation video follows:

After Gaona completed her interview with Jeslynn, the Roanoke singer-songwriter sang her debut single “Calm Me Down” on the WDBJ7 TV show. Gelaine’s performance is found below.

After meeting Jeslynn at her Strawberry Festival concert, I sent her questions via email to answer for this article. She and I also utilized Microsoft’s Messenger online text communication for clarification.  My questions and her answers are found below.

DJ Dave:  How do you describe the genre or genres of music that you sing?  My guess would be a combination of pop and country.

Jeslynn: “Well, I’m going to be honest…lol! I don’t necessarily put my music in a “box” or genre as of now. I just write about life and put lyrics and whatever melody comes in my heart to it. I call my music my musical diary! I dabble in a lot of different sounds.”

DJ Dave:  I have gathered from listening to your written songs that you attempt to express your feelings about a subject, in a real and honest way.  And at the same time, you want to convey something positive to the listener of your songs?  Is that accurate?    

Jeslynn: “I want to give people something to relate to when they listen to my music. If they’ve experienced what I’ve experienced whether that be an emotion, an experience, etc. I want them to not feel alone and feel like they can have an anthem. I don’t just write about sad experiences. I also want listeners to just have something to “jam” too and feel happy about.

 I also want them to know by my Christian songs that there is hope through Jesus and they don’t have time to stay there in that negative emotion. Jesus is the only way I’ve healed through life’s tough obstacles.”

DJ Dave: When I met you after your Strawberry Festival concert, I asked you about the quote at the top of your social media pages, “All my life I’ve been a dreamer.” Can you briefly describe the significance behind this meaningful statement?

Jeslynn: That quote is from my song “Dreamer”, which is about overcoming fear and chasing dreams. Ironically, I wrote it two weeks before my first American Idol audition which marked a significant step in my career.

DJ Dave: I like your quote, “Songwriting is a therapeutic outlet for you and medicine for your soul.”  Please give me more insight into this meaning?

Jeslynn: My songs are a musical diary, allowing others to relate and feel less alone in life’s journeys. I pray God’s gift to me can also be a gift to others through lyrics.

DJ Dave: With your duties as worship leader with Wake the World church, what are ways that you prepare your own heart before leading folks during a Sunday morning service?

Jeslynn: My mom and I seek the Holy Spirit’s leading when choosing songs for Sunday. I also prioritize daily Bible study and prayer as I prepare my heart.

DJ Dave: Your mom, Rebecca, shared with me that you started singing as soon as you learned to talk and began singing harmony at age 3. At what point in your life did you decide that you wanted to be a singer and utilize the talents God has given you for Christian service?

Jeslynn: Music has been my lifelong passion and has never really been a question for me. After being part of American Idol and SongHouseCo, I feel even more confident that music is what I’m supposed to do.

DJ Dave: What are your dreams, goals and aspirations in relation to singing and music as you become an adult next year?

Jeslynn: I aspire to release more original music, put out an album, and perform at the Grand Ole Opry, and award shows. Ultimately, I just want what God has for me.

When I saw Jeslynn at her rain shorten Roanoke concert last month, I was impressed by her powerful vocals. I also realized that her songwriting is complex, challenging and provoking, but also upbeat, inspirational and encouraging.

From my perspective, Jeslynn has a bright future in her chosen musical profession.  Her enthusiasm and passion to foster empowerment through music is outstanding.

I also appreciate Jeslynn’s desire to be a positive witness with her Christian faith and a willingness to tackle hard topics as a songwriter. As a Christian believer myself, I find Gelaine’s outlook to be refreshing.

Obviously, no one knows what the future holds in store for this young Virginia singer. I am confident that Jeslynn Gelaine’s music career will go in a favorable direction as she continues to seek God’s guidance for her life. Rock on!

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Album Review, Americana, Artist Profiles, Folk, Music, Pop Music, rock, Virginia Artists

Caleb Meyer:  Most of the Days EP: Now Released

Since I started publishing DJ Dave’s Musical Musings in 2018, I have regularly written about musical artists from a variety of musical genres who perform in the Roanoke area and throughout the state of Virginia. With this in mind, I am featuring an up-and-coming Americana folk-rock artist.

For my first music blog of 2025, I am glad to introduce to you musician and singer-songwriter Caleb Meyer.  This artist is from Roanoke, Virginia and has just released a 5-song EP called “Most of the Days.”

Meyer is a native of Roanoke and is 25 years old. Besides living in South Carolina and Colorado, Caleb has spent the majority of his life residing in Virginia.

I first met Meyer when he was a student at Hidden Valley High School in Roanoke, when his family started attending Anglican parish, Church of the Holy Spirit (CHS) where I have worshipped since 2002. I got to know Caleb well during my time as a volunteer small group leader with the CHS senior high youth group.

After Meyer graduated from Hidden Valley High School, he studied audio engineering and music business from 2018 to 2022. After beginning his professional career in Colorado, Caleb moved back to Roanoke and started utilizing his audio engineering skills.

I recently spoke with Church of the Holy Spirit (CHS) Chief of Staff Tim Henderson, and he told me that Meyer was hired to work in the CHS Audio/Visual department in 2022. Caleb has flourished with various duties such as audio engineering and heading up live streaming of church services over the past 3 years.

Quigg Lawrence, CHS Senior Pastor and Bishop in the Anglican Church says “Caleb is like a Swiss army knife, and functions well with any task he is assigned within the CHS worship arts ministry.”

All of the professional skills Meyer has gained over the past few years have been beneficial to his budding singing career. Caleb has amassed audio equipment and uses it to mix and master recordings of his own music inside the comfort of his own home.

 Meyer can also freelance and produce music for other local Roanoke artists at his home studio. With the growing music scene in the Roanoke Valley, Caleb is hoping to tap into recording, mixing and mastering music by fellow Virginia singers and musicians.

Since 2022, Meyer has a history working with Nashville record producer and engineer Evan Sieling, world-renowned instrumentalist Scott Mulvahill, and Artimus Pyle of Lynyrd Skynyrd. Some of Caleb’s professional sound credits are listed below:

  • A Robin Built a Nest on Daddy’s Grave–Bent Mountain
  • Say You’re Gone–Luke Lively
  • Mushroom Song–Landon Carder
  • Most of the Days–Caleb Meyer
  • Peaks–Brenidy O’Dea

The outstanding audio engineering skills of Meyer were evident as I listened to Caleb’s new EP called “Most of the Days.”   It is impressive that Meyer wrote lyrics to all of the songs, sings on every track, played acoustic guitar, then mixed, and produced this EP himself. Credit goes to Evan Sieling for mastering the 5 songs.

Released on December 23, 2024, “Most of the Days” does have input from some fellow Roanoke area musicians. These guys play a variety of instruments which gives the album a full, rich sound. Acoustic guitar was handled by Meyer on the EP.

Below are the names of the 5 tracks on “Most of the Days” by Caleb + Co.

  • Hard to Say
  • Convicted (Estranged)
  • I Might Understand
  • Suffer Well
  • Coming Through

As I listened to the tracks on Caleb’s “Most of the Days” EP for the first time, I realized the tracks were an outstanding mix of musical genres:  Rock, Pop, Folk and Americana.  To hear Meyer’s music, you can access via these sites: YouTube, Apple Music, Amazon and Spotify.

Just after New Year’s Day 2025, I met Caleb at Mill Mountain Coffee in downtown Roanoke to discuss his new EP and glean information for this blog article. During our time together, Meyer shared with me about his music career, producing songs for other artists and his desire to one day create a recording studio in Roanoke.

After my interview with Meyer, I emailed him a list of questions about on his music career and life experience highlights. Caleb’s responses to my questions are found below:

DJ Dave: At what age did you start having aspirations of becoming a singer-songwriter, musician and recording artist? Briefly describe how you came about your decision to be in the music industry.

Caleb: When I was 6 years old, I wrote my first song called “Burn the Idols”. As bad as that song was (and it was BAD), it was the start of a great passion for me. Soon after writing the lyrics, my parents got me a guitar so I could start putting some music to it. My dad taught me my first few chords on guitar, and I went on to continue to teach myself from there.

 DJ Dave: Now as a musician and singer-songwriter, how do you classify the type of music that you perform? Why have you selected the multiple musical genres you sing and record?

 Caleb: I call my own style folk-rock and/or alternative. I have a pretty eclectic music taste, and that shows in my writing. That is probably why I am comfortable working in so many different genres, but some genres I am definitely more comfortable in than others. Bands like Mumford and Sons and The Lumineers were big inspirations for me, as well as artists like Ed Sheeran and Jon Bellion.

 DJ Dave: When writing new songs, do you have a particular type of subject matter you prefer or do you pen a variety of topics with your compositions?

 Caleb: It is more difficult for me to write happy songs, but I still try to incorporate a sense of hope into all my songs. Most of my lyrics have a bittersweet tone to them. The theme of this EP specifically could be described as “learning and growing from pain and past mistakes”.

On a surface level, this EP was inspired by a breakup. But if you listen to the lyrics, the content goes much deeper than that.

DJ Dave: Being an indie artist, you write, sing, record, produce, mix and master your own songs. Can you describe the process of totally creating new music?

Caleb: Whether it’s one of my own songs or a song for a production client, the process always starts as a demo or voice memo recording. From there, I normally start to develop a vision for the instrumentation and structure I want the song to have.

Next, I will record whatever instrument that will act as the backbone of the song first. For my own music, this is often acoustic guitar. After that, I will record a scratch track of the lead vocal so I can start building the rest of the instrumentation around it.

Once this is complete, I will go back and record the final vocals and put any final touches on the sound design. Once the instrumental and vocals are in a good place, it’s time to mix and master!

 DJ Dave: On your recently released “Most of the Days” EP, who are the musicians that accompanied you and what instruments did they play on your latest project?

Caleb:    EP Personnel:

  • Parker Brown: Keys
  • Ayden Young: Banjo and double bass
  • Nathan Folta: Violin
  • Taylor Folta: Cajon
  • Caleb Meyer: Guitar and vocals

Dj Dave:  In the summer of 2025, you shared with me that you are planning to perform some live gigs with some fellow musicians in the Roanoke Valley. What types of venues are you playing this summer?

 Caleb: The possible gigs I’ve got lined up for the band are backyard concerts that my friends will host. Intimate venues with close friends, and whoever else is wants to come. I will likely have a few gigs at restaurants and breweries in the Roanoke area as well, but those come up sporadically. I will be posting about any upcoming events on my Facebook page.

Looking ahead to the future, Meyer has a couple of goals in relation to his own songs, as well as recording other Roanoke Valley/Southwest Virginia artist’s music.

  • His short-term goal is working towards creating a recording studio with sound equipment inside of a mobile trailer. Meyer could then record local Roanoke artists, plus expand his services to Central and Southwestern Virginia.
  • A long-term goal that Meyer has is to create a free-standing building to house a commercial recording studio in Roanoke by the year 2030. This would allow musical artists from all across the Mid-Atlantic region to utilize this type of facility.

The official Caleb Meyer Blue Ridge Fellows photo. Courtesy Caroline Crawford.

One take away I received from my time speaking with Meyer is his desire to be a positive Christian witness with every aspect with his music and audio engineering duties.  Colossians 3:23 (English Standard Version) sums up Caleb’s belief: “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.”

As a Christian myself, I appreciated learning about Meyer’s dedication to rely on faith in his interactions with others. His aspiration to follow biblical teachings is encouraging to me. Without a doubt, I feel that Meyer is heading in a positive direction.

Obviously, no one knows what the future will hold. I look forward seeing how Meyer’s musical career blossoms and his desire to create recording studio opportunities for other artists in the next few years. Caleb’s future looks promising and bright here in Roanoke.  Rock on!

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The Brothers Young: Virginia’s Accomplished Bluegrass Duo

Blane and Ayden Young at the Floyd Country Store October 19, 2024. Photo by DJ Dave

Exactly 4 years ago on October 31, I published a music blog on the Brothers Young. Now with 4 additional years of musical experience, I am updating info on the outstanding classical bluegrass sibling duo based out of Roanoke, Virginia.

Earlier this month, I had the opportunity to catch the Brothers Young (TBY) in concert at the Floyd Country Store (FCC).  Located in Floyd, Virginia, this is a venue that regularly features live musical groups, bands and performers, primarily with the genres of bluegrass, folk and old-time country music.

Short video of Don Reno cover, “Follow the Leader” by TBY on 10/19/24. Clip recorded by DJ Dave

Accompanying the Brothers Young on the FCC stage were Steve Farmer on bass and Stefan Kraft playing guitar. These fellows regularly play with TBY at concerts in and around the Virginia locations.

As I watched TBY play their classic bluegrass set, I saw firsthand superb musicianship and professional excellency from the Roanoke musical brothers.

Short video of Osborne Brothers cover, “Rocky Top” by TBY on 10/19/24. Clip recorded by DJ Dave.

The Brothers Young are 18-year-old Ayden who plays banjo while 14-year-old Blane plays mandolin for their group.  TBY are also multiple instrumentalist: Both are pianists while Blane is also a drummer.

Blane and Ayden Young. Photo courtesy of Melissa Young.

The musical partnership of TBY started in August 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic under the direction of their parents Melissa and Chad Young. Obviously, with Ayden & Blane still in their teen years, they have received strong parental support with all aspects of TBY musical endeavors.

Since TBY was founded, the fellows have played numerous gigs in and around the Roanoke Valley, as well as many other Blue Ridge Mountain towns in Virginia. The Brothers Young have also performed concerts in North Carolina and Kentucky.

 Below are just a few concert venues that TBY has performed since 2020:

•          Merlefest

•          Bristol Rhythm & Roots

•          The Floyd Country Store

•          Biltmore (Antler Hill Stage)

•          Woodsong Kids (Lexington, KY)

•          Rassawek Autumn Festival

•          WPAQ’s Merry-Go-Round

•          Virginia Museum of Transportation

•          Milepost Music – Peaks of Otter

•          Autumn Leaves Festival

Ayden and Blane also play music monthly at various local Roanoke Valley locations. Melissa Young says “her sons regularly perform at around 20+ Roanoke & Salem retirement communities, partnering with activities directors for those facilities. The residents love the classic bluegrass music and the boys!”

The Brothers Young have recorded the following music during the past 4 years:

  • Two singles with award-winning, traditional bluegrass group the Junior Sisk Band.
  • One track recorded on a gospel bluegrass album “Come Home” by Bent Mountain.
  • One full-length bluegrass album, “B is for Bluegrass.”
  • One Christmas music album, “Christmas in the Hills”, featuring piano favorites and bluegrass songs.

With the financial help of parents Chad and Melissa Young, Ayden created a home studio where he has recorded, mixed and mastered two TBY albums (CDs).  Ayden says, “It is convenient to have a studio in my own home and it has helped me to learn more about the recording process.”

Christian faith is important to TBY.  Ayden plays banjo for the worship team at Church of the Holy Spirit (CHS) an Anglican parish in southwest Roanoke County.  I am a member of the CHS congregation and I have witnessed the entire Young family serving our church body over the past few years.

Here is a quote by Ayden on being a Christian and playing music. ”Being a musician, I often have to tell myself that all of the talents and all of the opportunities we’ve had, have come from the Lord and not from ourselves. Here is a perfect verse that helps me remind myself that all the glory must not go to me, but to God.”   Psalm 115:1 “Not to us, O Lord, not to us but to Your Name be the glory, because of Your steadfast Love and Faithfulness.”

Stefan Kraft, Blane Young, Ayden Young & Steve Farmer. Courtesy of Melissa Young.

One of the musical mentors of TBY is Bishop Quigg Lawrence, who is senior pastor at Church of the Holy Spirit. Lawrence was executive producer and lyrical creator for a gospel bluegrass album released in 2021: “Come Home” by Bent Mountain.

I asked Bishop Lawrence to provide comments about his involvement with TBY on spiritual and musical supervision over the past 4 years: “What a privilege to watch two boys from Roanoke grow up playing traditional bluegrass. Ayden and Blane are some of the best kids I know. They are humble, hardworking, disciplined, funny, and just likable. I would be happy to call them my sons!”

Lawrence continues, “When I recorded a bluegrass album in 2020, the boys were on it. Ayden was older 14 years old and crushed two banjo songs. Blane was a tender ten and mainly added mando chops. Still, I was amazed at how they both entered the studio and started playing well with pro-players.”

“I went to Galax and saw them perform in 2021. Their band was #1 in the Youth Band Category. If memory serves me correctly, Ayden placed 2nd in Youth Banjo. This past year, 2024, Ayden placed 3rd in ADULT banjo, and Blane placed 2nd in youth mandolin. Many full time, well-known pro players never placed that high!”

As I mentioned above, I saw TBY perform in concert recently and I asked Blane and Ayden to answer this question:  Musically, what are attributes that you admire most about your brother? Their responses are below:

Blane:  “First off, he is an amazing banjo player!  One of the things I love about playing with my brother is that he helps the band start the songs on the right timing.  He is a good leader of the band. He encourages me after nobody laughs at my jokes. And mainly I enjoy it because I get to work with my brother.”

Blane and Ayden Young. Courtesy of Melissa Young.

Ayden:  “My brother has been gifted with nearly perfect rhythm. Whether it’s on the jazz drum kit or the mandolin, he holds down those chops! His ability to improvise and add some taste to the mix we’re going for is unchallenged.”

“The thing that impresses me the most is the fact that Blane has the perfect people person charisma. He will approach anyone and everyone and be completely interested in the conversation he’s having.”

In addition to TBY playing classic bluegrass, the siblings have also formed a jazz group called “610 Jazz.”  With this other musical venture, Ayden plays piano while Blane is on a drum kit. Both brothers enjoy the variety of performing jazz as a side project.

For those who are on the social media site Facebook, here is the link for the official Brothers Young page. Another excellent site is TBY YouTube channel.

As I spoke with Ayden and Blane at a home-schooling event in Roanoke County last Saturday, I ask them what can folks expect from the Brothers Young band in the future?

  • TBY would like to record a new album of bluegrass in 2025.
  • The siblings plan of continuing performing classic bluegrass music with as many venues as possible.
  • Blane and Ayden look forward to sharing their God given talents to everyone who attends one of their concerts.
  • Play more music with their “610 Jazz” group.

The consensus among the Brothers Young on future bluegrass career plans are unclear at this time.  Ayden graduated from high school in June. He is now teaching private banjo and piano music lessons, while also playing with other Roanoke area musicians in various recording sessions. Blane just started his 8th grade year with schooling.

Blane and Ayden are exploring various paths they may take in the future with career opportunities. Both fellows are also steadfast with their desire to be guided by God as they finish their teenage years.

Stefan Kraft, Blane Young, Ayden Young & Steve Farmer. Courtesy of Melissa Young.

Without a doubt, the TBY have grown musically over the past 4 years and these guys have matured in positive directions. I am encouraged to see the dedication and loyalty that Ayden and Blane show as they endeavor to hone their craft of playing bluegrass music together.

The Brothers Young performing at Floyd Country Store on October 19, 2024. Photo courtesy of Melissa Young.

Obviously, we do not know what the future has in store for the bluegrass teens. I am confident the Brothers Young of Roanoke will continue to be a positive force within the local Southwestern Virginia community. Rock on!

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Outstanding Trio Rock Bands from the 20th Century

What are the greatest rock bands in the history of popular music that featured trios?

With my latest music blog message, I will be counting down what I consider to be the ten best rock band trios from the 20th century from 1965 through 1985.

Before I share the countdown of the ten bands that I have selected for this topic, I need to state what constitutes a rock trio band.

Basically, a rock trio band features all three members playing instruments: normally an electric guitar, an electric bass guitar and drums. In some other trios, keyboards are substituted for either a guitar or a drum set.

At the same time that instruments are being played by all members, one or more of those same individuals will provide singing on songs that have vocals. These bands tend to have a full, rich sound with just three members.

The fresh electric sounds of British Invasion bands in the mid 60s such as the Beatles, the Rolling Stones and the Who, gave inspiration to those wanting to play that type of music with just 3 musicians. Soon thereafter, many new rock trio bands started forming in the United States and Great Britain.

As I did research for the topic of rock trio bands, I realized there were other types of musical groups with just 3 members.  I classify these artists as vocal pop groups, that featured 3 singers that didn’t play musical instruments.

Below are some outstanding 3-person vocal groups from the 60s and 70s. These trios performed in a variety of musical genres from pop, rock, folk and soul.

  • The Supremes
  • Three Dog Night
  • The Bee Gees
  • Peter Paul and Mary
  • The Isley Brothers
  • Martha and the Vandellas

While all of the above 3-person vocal groups produced excellent music, they are not power trio rock bands and have been excluded from consideration on my countdown. Maybe I will write and publish a separate article on outstanding 60s and 70s trio vocal groups in the future?  Stay tuned.

Here are the criteria I used in compiling my countdown of best rock trio bands:

  • Majority of album chart success between the years of 1965 and 1985.
  • Since my home country is in America, my rankings are based solely on what bands achieved in the United States.
  • In researching historical musical data for this article, I used Billboard and Cash Box magazines for documentation.
  • I also gathered artist information from the liner notes of vinyl albums that I still own in 2024.
  • Bands received significant airplay on Top 40 and Album Oriented Rock (AOR) radio in the U.S. from mid 60s through to the mid 80s.
  • Some groups listed in countdown may have had more than 3 members at some point but stayed as a trio during a majority of the band’s existence.
  • I will document main members of trio bands and may leave out part time personnel and/or people in a band whom stayed for short periods of time.

Please note that my ranking of albums and songs within the countdown of best rock trio bands is entirely based on my own opinion. My rating system reflects directly upon music that I deem to be culturally, historically, aesthetically significant, meaningful or relevant.

Without further ado, my countdown of the ten best trio rock bands begins:

10. James Gang

Main Lineup: Joe Walsh (guitars, lead vocals), Dale Peters (bass) and Jim Fox (drums).  Widely acclaimed album: “James Gang Rides Again.”  My #1 top-rated song: “Walk Away.”   Second favorite track: “Funk #49.”

Active years as a trio: 1968-1974. The front man & lead singer for American band James Gang was Joe Walsh. He left the classic rock trio in 1971 for a solo career. Walsh later joined Eagles band during late 1975 and still is a member in 2024. He and his Eagles group were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1998.

9.   Emerson Lake & Palmer

Main Lineup: Keith Emerson (keyboards), Greg Lake (Vocals and guitar) and Carl Palmer (drums and percussion).  Widely acclaimed album: “Pictures at an Exhibition.”  My #1 top-rated song: “Nut Rocker.”  Second favorite track: “Lucky Man.”

Active years as a trio: 1970-1979, 1991-1999.  Emerson Lake & Palmer (ELP) were an English progressive rock juggernaut. The band mixed genres of jazz, classical, along with pop-rock sounds together and became one of the leading bands for experimental music during the 70s.

8.    Grand Funk Railroad

Main Lineup:  Mark Farner (lead vocals, guitarist, keyboards), Mel Schacher (bassist) and Don Brewer (drummer and vocalist).  Widely acclaimed album: “Closer to Home.”  My #1 top-rated song: “We’re an American Band.”  Second favorite track: “I’m Your Captain (Closer to Home).”

Active years as trio: 1969-1976.  Grand Funk Railroad (GFR) was founded in Flint, Michigan during 1969. Labeled as arena rock, the group toured intensively and the band’s live shows were popular among concert attendees. (GFR) was inducted into the Michigan Rock and Roll Legends Hall of Fame in 2015.

7.   Rush

 Main Lineup: Geddy Lee (bass guitar, keyboards, vocalist), Alex Lifeson (guitar) and Neil Peart (drums, percussion and songwriter). Widely acclaimed album: “Moving Pictures.” My #1 top-rated song: “Tom Sawyer.” Second Favorite track: “New World Man.”

Active years as trio: 1974-2015.  Inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2013. Canadian band formed in Toronto, Ontario. Musically, group is considered progressive rock. Band also is known for synthesizer pop and hard rock blues. Rush produced excellent musicianship and top-notch lyrical compositions during the 20th century.

6.   Genesis

Main Lineup: Tony Banks (keyboards, acoustic guitar), Mike Rutherford (electric guitar, bass) and Phil Collins (Drums, percussion and vocalist). Widely acclaimed album: “Abacab.”  My #1 top-rated song: “Abacab” Second favorite track: “No Reply at All.”

Active years as a trio: 1977-1996.  Genesis is considered as a pioneer progressive rock band. This English group actually started with 5 members but paired down to just 3 fellows in 1977. All 3 guys recorded side projects in the 80s, with Collins having the most success, followed by Rutherford (Mike + The Mechanics).  Band was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2010.

5.   ZZ Top

Main Lineup: Billy Gibbons (guitarist and vocalist), Frank Beard (drums) and Dusty Hill (bassist and vocalist).  Widely acclaimed album: “Tres Hombres.”  My #1 top-rated song: “La Grange.” Second favorite track: “Sharp Dressed Man.”

Active years as a trio: 1969 to 2021. The 2004 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees started in Houston, Texas. During the 70s, this southern rock band played a combination of hard rock and blues. During the MTV 80s, ZZ Top switched into a synthesizer pop-rock sound which brought the band much success.  The band still performed as a trio until Hill’s death in 2021.

4.   The Jimi Hendrix Experience

Main Lineup:  Jimi Hendrix (guitarist and vocalist), Noel Redding (bass guitar) and Mitch Mitchell (drums).  Widely acclaimed album: “Are You Experienced.”  My #1 top-rated song: “All Along the Watchtower.”  Second favorite track: “Purple Haze.”

Active Years as a trio: 1966-1970: Jimi Hendrix was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall in 1992, along with the other members of his Experience trio, drummer Mitch Mitchell and bassist Noel Redding.  Although his mainstream music career was only 4 years long, many music critics consider Hendrix to be the greatest guitarist of all-time.

3.   Crosby Stills & Nash

Main Lineup:  David Crosby (guitarist, singer-songwriter), Graham Nash (singer-songwriter, keyboardist and guitarist) and Stephen Stills (lead guitarist, bass guitar, percussion, singer-songwriter).  Widely acclaimed album: “Crosby Stills & Nash.”  My #1 top-rated song: “Suite: Judy Blue Eyes.”  Second favorite track: “Marrakesh Express.”

Active years as a trio: 1969-1970, 1973-1974, 1976-2015:  Crosby, Stills & Nash (CSN) were a superb folk-rock supergroup and in 1997 became members of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.  During 1970-1971 and occasionally at other select times, Neil Young joined CSN to form a quartet.  The CSN trio contributed outstanding vocal harmonies and all were first-rate singer-songwriters.

2.   The Police

Main Lineup: Sting (singer-songwriter, bass guitarist, main vocalist), Stewart Copeland (drums, percussion) and Andy Summers (guitarist). Widely acclaimed album: “Synchronicity.”  My #1 top-rated song: “Every Little Thing She Does is Magic.”  Second favorite track: “Roxanne.”

Active years as a trio: 1977-1984: English band formed in London during 1977.  This trio combined rock, pop, reggae, jazz and punk together. Considered a new wave band in the late 70s. The Police became one of the biggest bands during the 80s and got into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2003.

1.   Cream

Main Lineup: Jack Bruce (bassist chief vocalist and songwriter), Eric Clapton (guitarist, songwriter) and Ginger Baker (drums). Widely acclaimed album: “Disraeli Gears.”  My #1 top-rated song: “Sunshine of Your Love.” Second favorite track: “White Room.”

Active years as a trio: 1966–1969:   Cream is among the first supergroups in rock music history.  Eric Clapton, Ginger Baker and Jack Bruce were pioneers musically mixing blues and hard rock sounds for trios. This British band reformed temporarily in 1993 when the group were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.  Without a doubt, Cream is my number one best power rock trio of all-time.

That wraps up what I consider to be my favorite and best top trio rock bands.  I completely understand that my listing of songs and albums in this category was written from my point of view and is subjective.

If you were creating a similar register of excellent trio rock bands, your tabulation may be totally different. What do you consider to be the best rock groups with just 3 members from the years 1965 through 1985?  I hope you will comment below.

I still love listening rock trio bands on the radio or at home on my home stereo system. Music from the groups in my countdown will always have a special place in my heart. Long live the outstanding music of classic rock trio bands.  Rock on!

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Superb Soul Singles of Stax Records:  1965 to 1972

“Do you like good music, that sweet soul music, just as long as it’s swinging, oh yeah, oh yeah.”

Above are the opening lyrics to Arthur Conley’s 1967 smash hit “Sweet Soul Music” which was co-written by Otis Redding, Sam Cooke and Conley.  This song remains a shining example of excellent soul singles released by Stax Records, which had recording studios in Memphis, Tennessee.

With this month’s music blog message, I am featuring some of the most beloved Southern soul music singles from Stax Records. I will countdown my baker’s dozen: what I consider to be the 13 best and most influential Stax soul top 40 hits spanning from 1965 until 1972.

Before I share my selections, I want to give a brief history of Stax which was founded during 1957. This Memphis recording company was on the forefront with the advancement of Southern Black Music:  Soul, rhythm and blues, gospel and funk.

Stax became the second largest company producing soul music, just behind Motown Records of Detroit, Michigan during the mid 60s to early 70s.

According to the current 2023 Stax Records Dot Com website: “Stax placed more than 167 hit songs in the Top 100 on the pop charts, and a staggering 243 hits in the Top 100 R&B charts.”

When discussing the early years of Stax, it must be noted that there were other record label names associated with the Memphis music company: the biggest in this category is Volt Records.  It was founded in 1961 as a Stax subsidiary R&B label.  

Music recorded by Stax/Volt Records and other subsidiary labels during the early years (1957-1968) was distributed by ATCO Records, which was owned by Atlantic Records.   

After Atlantic departed ways with Stax, the company was independent until 1972 when CBS Records distributed for the Memphis organization.  Five years later, Fantasy Records bought Stax as the label had declared bankruptcy.

Below are the criterion I am using for my Stax/Volt soul singles countdown: 

  • Only one song per artist.  This will allow 13 different recording acts to be a part of the countdown instead of multiple songs from a singer like Otis Redding.
  •  Song was a Top 10 hit on Billboard’s Hot R&B (Soul) singles chart.
  •  Selection also was a crossover hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, peaking #30 or higher.

Below are excellent Stax soul singles outside of my countdown.  Songs listed in random order and not ranked:

  • Groovin’ – Booker T. and the MG’s – 1967
  • Hang ‘Em High – Booker T. and the MG’s – 1968
  • Hold on! I’m Comin’–Sam and Dave – 1966
  • I Thank You – Sam and Dave – 1968
  • B-A-B-Y – Carla Thomas – 1966
  • Do the Funky Chicken–Rufus Thomas – 1970
  • I’ve Been Loving You Too Long – Otis Redding – 1965
  • Try a Little Tenderness – Otis Redding – 1966
  • Tramp – Otis Redding and Carla Thomas – 1967
  • Respect – Otis Redding – 1965
  • In the Midnight Hour – Wilson Pickett — 1965
  • Satisfaction – Otis Redding – 1966
  • Knock on Wood – Otis Redding and Carla Thomas – 1967
  • Testify (I Wonna) – Johnnie Taylor – 1969
  • I’ve Been Loving You Too Long – Otis Redding — 1965

Without further ado, here are my selections:

13. (If Loving You is Wrong) I Don’t Want to be Right—Luther Ingram (1972)

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts:  #1 Hot R&B, #3 Hot 100, 16th biggest song 1972

Singer-songwriter born in Jackson, Tennessee. Biggest hit by artist. Song was covered by multiple artists including a number one country single by Barbara Mandrell.

12. Whatcha See is Whatcha Get—The Dramatics (1971)

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts:  #3 Hot R&B, #9 Hot 100, 46th biggest song 1971

Vocal music group from Detroit, Michigan.  Lead singer Ron Banks provides scatting on song. The Dramatics had a second top ten smash with “In the Rain” in 1972.

11. Who’s Making Love—Johnnie Taylor (1968)

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts:  #1 Hot R&B, #5 Hot 100

Song features Stax house band, Booker T. & the M.G.’s, and Isaac Hayes playing keyboards.

Johnnie Taylor nicknamed “The Philosopher of Soul.”  Instruments on tune were played by Booker T and the MGs and keyboards by Isaac Hayes.  Had a number one in 1976 with “Disco Lady.”

10. Soul Finger—The Bar-Kays (1967)

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #3 Hot R&B, #17 Hot 100, 67th biggest song 1967

Instrumental ensemble that was Otis Redding’s band. Tune became group’s first hit.  Tragedy struck in December 1967 as Redding and four members of the band died in a plane crash. The Bar Kays re-formed in the 70s as a funk band.

9. Theme from Shaft—Isaac Hayes (1971)

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #1 Hot 100, #2 Hot R&B, 89th biggest song 1971

Theme song from the 1971 film “Shaft” was written by Isaac Hayes. The mostly instrumental single won two Grammy Awards for “Best Instrumental Arrangement” and “Best Original Score Written for a Motion Picture or TV Special.”

8. Mr. Big Stuff—Jean Knight (1971)

Peak position on Billboard Charts:  #1 R&B, #2 Hot 100:  17th biggest song 1971

A sassy, upbeat soul song, that has an excellent bass line. Jean Knight’s song was nominated for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance at the 1972 Grammy Awards.

7. Knock on Wood—Eddie Floyd (1966)

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts:  #1 Hot R&B, #28 Hot 100

Written by Eddie Floyd and Steve Cooper.  Song was covered by fellow Stax artists Otis Redding and Carla Thomas in 1967 and later in 1979 from Amii Stewart.  Floyd was named to the Memphis Music Hall of Fame in 2018.

6. Sweet Soul Music—Arthur Conley (1967)

Peak Position of Billboard Charts:  #2 Hot 100, #2 Hot R&B, 17th Biggest Song of 1967

“Sweet Soul Music” was co-written by Arthur Conley and Otis Redding. Lyrics honors some of the biggest R&B artists from the mid 60s:  The Miracles, Lou Rawls, Sam & Dave, Wilson Pickett, Otis Redding and James Brown. Brass instruments create a rich sound on the tune.

5. Time is Tight—Booker T & the MGs (1969)

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts:  #6 Hot 100, #7 Hot R&B, 63rd Biggest Hit of 1969

Booker T and the MGs were a mainstay with Stax and are considered the quintessential R&B instrumental band of the 60s. These musicians had seven Top 40 hits and the group was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1992.

4. I’ll Take You There—The Staple Singers (1972)

Peak positions on Billboard Charts:  #1 Hot 100, #1 Hot R&B, 19th biggest song 1972

Lyrics feature message on civil rights, social conditions and has religious overtones.  Song is in the Grammy Hall of Fame. The Staple Singers were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1999.

3. Soul Man—Sam and Dave (1967)

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts:  #1 Hot R&B, #2 Hot 100, 19th biggest song 1967

Sam Moore and Dave Prater are considered one of the greatest live performing artists of the 60s.  “Soul Man” received a Grammy Award in 1968 and this dynamic duo have been inducted into 4 musical hall of fame organizations.

2. Mustang Sally—Wilson Pickett (1965)

Peak Positions on Billboard Hot 100:  #6 Hot R&B, #23 Hot 100

Singer-songwriter Wilson Pickett is recognized as a pioneer in the development of Southern soul music.  Inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1991.  “Mustang Sally” is on Rolling Stone’s “500 Greatest Songs of all-time” listing.

  1. (Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay—Otis Redding (1967)

Otis Redding is regarded as one of the all-time greatest singers of the 20th Century. Known as the “King of Soul”, this singer-songwriter gave spirited concert performances during his short music career.

As a songwriter, Redding penned the song “Respect” that Aretha Franklin covered and turned into a massive hit.  Another well-known song by the King of Soul” is “Try a Little Tenderness.”

“(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay” by Redding is my number one top selection on my countdown of the best Stax songs of all-time. Redding recorded this composition 3 days before he perished in a plane crash near Madison, Wisconsin on December 10, 1967.

Released as a single during January 1968, “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay” became the first posthumous number 1 song to chart on the Billboard Hot 100.  It remains one of the most iconic top 40 singles of the 60s.

During 1969, Redding received 2 posthumous Grammy Awards for his best known and well-loved signature song.  Without a doubt, I have “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay” as the #1 greatest Stax superb soul single ever made.

That wraps up what I consider to be the 13 essential Stax/Volt soul singles from the 60s and 70s. I completely understand that my listing of songs in this category was written from my point of view and is subjective.

If you were creating a similar register of excellent soul hits, your tabulation may be totally different. What do you consider to be the best musical tunes in this category?  I hope you will comment below.

Listening to Southern soul singles from Stax Records will always have a special place in my heart.  I still cherish and fondly remember every song on my countdown.  Rock on!

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Artist Profiles, Concert Reviews, Music, Podcasts, Retro Rock, Virginia Artists

Chris Keaton with the Kings: Roanoke’s Quintessential Band

Earlier this year, vocalist Terry Brown of Roanoke’s legendary band the Kings temporarily stepped down due to some health issues. Finding a stand-in substitute could have posed a problem for long-time Kings leader Larry Wheeling.

In finding a fill-in pinch hitter, Wheeling didn’t have to call Ghostbusters.  Instead, he found Roanoke native Chris Keaton to sing and play saxophone for the Kings while Brown is convalescing from his illness.

The Kings were founded in 1965 by Perry Caligan, who still acts as the business owner of the band. Current leader and manager of the Kings is Larry Wheeling, who joined the Roanoke based group during 1969.

Larry Wheeling and Perry Caligan at Elmwood Park in July 2018.

Over four years ago, I featured the Kings on a music blog message and attended one of the band’s concerts in downtown Roanoke.  Here is the link for The Kings Rocking Roanoke Since 1965: https://woodsonrva.com/2018/07/11/the-kings-rocking-roanoke-since-1965/

The Kings in concert in downtown Roanoke on July 5, 2018.

While Terry Brown recovers from his health issues, the Kings have been fortunate to secure the services of Chris Keaton. I had the opportunity to interview Keaton last month, just before he and the Kings had a concert at Roanoke’s Black Dog Salvage.

Chris Keaton was born in Roanoke, Virginia and grew up in the town of Vinton.  After graduating from William Byrd High School, Keaton spent a year at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) in Richmond. Chris then following in the footsteps of Bob Dylan left college life to pursue a career in music.

During the mid 70s, Keaton played saxophone and toured with pop/rock bands ranging from Gary U.S. Bonds to Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons. He also had gigs with Jay & the Techniques during this time period.

A few bands that Keaton was a member of during the 70s and 80s were High & Mighty, Dazzle Boys and Band of Oz.  Interestingly, Chris also had two separate stints performing as a member of the Kings during his younger years.

An album from the Kings: 1989. Chris Keaton co-produced this LP with Brian Wheeling. Band members (L-R), Bruce Wall, David Ferguson, Randy Wheeling, Chris Keaton, Kent Martin, Larry Wheeling and Brian Wheeling.

In 1993, Keaton moved to Nashville, Tennessee and became a business partner with another Roanoke native Tommy Holcomb. Eventually, Holcomb moved back to Roanoke while Keaton stayed in the “Music City” to venture into a new career path.

Since the mid 90s, Keaton’s career has become multifaceted.  His official bio states: “Chris is a Nashville-based entertainment industry executive, award winning music publisher, artist management consultant and a 2016 Inductee in the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame.”

When I interviewed Chris last month, 3 words stood out to me that describe Keaton’s current profession: connector, influencer and encourager. Keaton utilizes various forms of social media during his day-to-day activities.

One social media avenue Keaton uses is podcasting. He describes his “Random Acts” podcast, “of kindness, stories, a song or two, seeds of hope and love, and the randomness of it all through the eyes of Chris Keaton.”

Another fascinating venture of Keaton’s work is with the fashion industry.  For a number of years, Chris has been a member of Macy’s Style Crew as a “brand influencer.” As a result of his Macy’s gig, Keaton published a book in 2020 called “Dapper.”

Published at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020, “Dapper” was written by Keaton and the text is supported by photographer Keith Charles.  The book conveys, “Serious tips on being a dapper gentleman tempered with a dash of humor.”

Two years ago, Keaton was a guest on Larry Dowdy Mic Side podcast and talked about his book “Dapper” along with some of his past musical performing career.

Versatility and Chris Keaton go hand-in hand as he has been a long-time voting member of the Recording Academy (Grammy Awards) and is a reviewer for an Internet country music site.

2016 was a memorable year for Keaton as he was inducted into the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame. Working with the beach music group Band of Oz, Keaton composed an award-winning rendition of the song, “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” for his induction.

Considering all of the activities that Keaton has been involved with during the past few years, the influencer hasn’t performed many in-person concerts. However, that changed a few months ago when Larry Wheeling asked Chris to play with the Kings on a temporary basis.

Chris Keaton singing a cover of the Time’s song, “Jungle Love” with the Kings. First Fridays downtown Roanoke in September 2022.

The current 2022 lineup of the Kings:

Terry Brown–Vocals

Mike Feamster –Drums

Brian Jones– Bass

Chris Loder–Guitar

Melody Irby — Vocals & Keyboards

Alan Walker— Sax

Randy Wheeling–Trumpet & Trombone

Larry Wheeling —–Trumpet

Chris Keaton—- Vocals & Sax

Chris Keaton singing a cover version of Wilson Pickett’s song, “Mustang Sally” with the Kings. Black Dog Salvage Roanoke on October 15, 2022.

With Keaton temporarily performing with the Kings, he plays saxophone and shares lead vocal duties with Melody Irby.  The brass section of the band is superb.

Chris Keaton singing cover of Justin Timberlake’s song, “Can’t Fight this Feeling” with the Kings. Black Dog Salvage Roanoke on Octotber 15, 2022.

Musically, the Kings are a pop/rock band and have a large following in central and southwestern Virginia.  The band plays a wide variety of cover tunes, ranging from the 60s through songs from the past ten years.

The Kings are Roanoke’s quintessential band and have been fortunate to secure the services of Keaton on a temporary basis. Providing his vocal talents and excellent saxophone skills, make him a perfect fit with the Kings.

My assessment of Keaton can be summed up as “renaissance man.”  He flows within a wide mixture of diverse areas, bringing his talents and knowledge for positive results.

Without a doubt, Chris Keaton is helping to make the world a better place by being an encourager, spreading peace, love and tranquility to everyone on his path in life.

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Album Review, Artist Profiles, Music

Locks: Fresh New Sara Niemietz Single from Upcoming Superman Album

Sara Niemietz with guitar. Photo credit: Xanderphotography.com

I describe the new single “Locks” by Sara Niemietz as hot, hip and happening indie rock. The song is now available for purchase and is the first track from an upcoming October 2022 Niemietz album release called “Superman.”

The “Locks” single and the remaining 13 other tracks from the new “Superman” LP are a collaboration between Sara Niemietz and her musical partner Linda Taylor.  This dynamic duo merged their musical talents together over the past two years: Niemietz-Taylor are co-producers for “Superman” and co-wrote every song on their collaborative project.

Niemietz is a singer-songwriter, musician, actor and member of PostModern Jukebox, who has recorded 3 albums during her career.  Taylor is a superb guitarist, composer, music producer and plays guitar on ABC TV show “Whose Line Is It Anyway?”  Together, the Niemietz-Taylor team creates musical magic!

Sara Niemietz and Linda Taylor before a Smith Center concert in Las Vegas, Nevada May 2022.

With the production of “Locks” and “Superman” by Niemietz-Taylor, the duo employed session musicians for their recordings. Personnel on all 14 songs include:

  • Sara Niemietz – vocals
  • Linda Taylor – guitars
  • Léo Costa – drums
  • Ed Roth – keyboards
  • Daniel Pearson – bass

Here are my thoughts about the new Niemietz-Taylor single.   When I heard “Locks” for the first time, I responded back to Sara and Linda via email with the following reply: “The track is a good choice for a first single. It is a catchy, up-tempo groove.  Excellent interplay with the drum, guitar and bass. I love the special effects with the switching of tune tempo. Outstanding vocals and harmonies. A Superb production. Pleasing to my ear.”

What does the co-producer team of Niemietz-Taylor have to say about their new single?  I asked Sara and Linda about “Locks” and they answered my inquiry from two different continents.

Sara Niemietz and Linda Taylor in studio during the “Superman” album recording sessions. Early 2022.

Taylor’s answer came to me from her Los Angeles, California home, submitting a quote from an official press release on “Locks” and the “Superman” album: “The bluesy “Locks” captures the bittersweet side of getting through life challenges. Here, Sara’s rich and sultry vocals imbue the song with a sense of burnished hope befitting the lyrics. One choice passage reads: “Who’s that looking out from the mirror/A little bit leaner, meaner/She figured it out/Can’t believe what I see/It’s almost hard to believe/This other side of the street I’m standing on.”

Album art for new Sara Niemietz single “Locks.”

My question for Niemietz: “Why did she and Taylor choose “Locks” as the first single to be released?  Sara replied via email, on a bus somewhere in Austria, as she was touring with PostModern Jukebox last month: “We have new versions of some previously released songs on “Superman” but “Locks” was the first idea specifically for the album. It went through several re-writes and re-records before we found its heart. In fairness, it got a little beat up, but we weren’t willing to let it go. Now we find it just feels like the start, the start of the setlist, the start of the album, the opening chapter, it sets everything in motion and the obvious first single.”

“Super” Sara in costume.

Link for purchasing “Locks” single: https://tinyurl.com/saralocks

Sara’s official website: www.saraniemietz.com

Linda’s official website: www.lindataylormusic.com

 As I mentioned above, “Locks” and all the songs on “Superman” were written and produced by Niemietz-Taylor.   The album will feature five new studio versions of previously released singles of the past two years: “Come to Me”, “Superman”, “Lovely Lies”, “The Dimming”, and “GOODX3.” From these five existing songs, the last two have already become fan favorites for those who follow the Niemietz-Taylor musical pair.

A second single from “Superman” called “I Want You” was released on September 23.

Considering that Niemietz has recorded three excellent albums during her career, “Superman” promises to be a musical delight.  The collaborative Niemietz-Taylor album is now available for pre-ordering from Bandwear. Link to purchase album is below:

Sara Niemietz
Album art for Sara Niemietz “Superman” album.

For anyone searching for new music to purchase this summer, look no further than “Locks” and the upcoming “Superman” album from Sara Niemietz and Linda Taylor.  I guarantee that you will not be disappointed.  Rock on!

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Artist Profiles, Broadcasting, Music, Radio, Retro Rock, Virginia Artists

Tommy Holcomb: Roanoke’s Marvelous Music Man

All photos on this message are courtesy of Tommy Holcomb.

If you have lived in central or southwestern Virginia over the past 50 plus years, chances are you have heard music written by Tommy Holcomb. The Roanoke, Virginia native has created hundreds of musical TV/radio commercials, which have been aired throughout Roanoke/Lynchburg media markets, as owner of Tommy Holcomb Productions.

Holcomb musical talent is much more than just creating ads for clients. He is also a founding member of two successful Roanoke pop/rock/folk bands during the 60s, 70s and 80s: The Vikings and Woodsmoke.  Holcomb’s journey creating music is renowned among those associated with history of the rich Roanoke music scene.

Tommy Holcomb performing in Atlanta, Georgia 1975
When Glen Campbell came to Roanoke. From left: Tommy Holcomb, Rita Matthews, Glen Campbell, Nancy Holcomb Fisher and Jack Fisher.

I had an opportunity to conduct a phone interview with Holcomb earlier this month, as we discussed a musical career spanning over 60 years. I have known Tommy since 1975.  We first met at WROV 1240 AM Roanoke, when Holcomb was delivering a commercial that he produced to the radio station where I was employed.

Vikings cover of Simon & Garfunkel song, “Keep the Customer Satisfied.”

Holcomb’s musical roots started the summer before his senior year at Patrick Henry High School in 1961. Tommy started a band named the Vikings, along with his fellow classmates Allen Nelms and Lane Craig.

The Vikings band as a trio. Sometime in early 60s.

After Nelms and Holcomb graduated from high school, the young adults left Roanoke to attend the University of Virginia (UVA). The Vikings occasionally played gigs together, when Nelms and Holcomb were in college at UVA between 1962 and 1966.

Vikings cover of Linda Ronstadt & Stone Poneys song, “Some of Shelly’s Blues.”

Upon graduation from college in 1966, Holcomb and Nelms returned to Roanoke and resurrected their Vikings band. One of the guys joining this new version of the band was the legendary WROV 1240 AM DJ Fred Frelantz.  Another prominent person that was added to the Vikings was Joy Ellis in 1969.

The Vikings Band in 1972.

For the next 7 years, the Vikings became the house band for the historic Coffee Pot Roadhouse restaurant and concert venue.  The band signed a recording contract with London records during 1967.

During the early 70s, Holcomb’s Vikings band recorded a couple of albums before the group broke up in 1975.  Forward to 1982, the Vikings came back together again and held a series of reunion concerts at Caesar’s Club in Roanoke. After the success of those shows, the band decided to resume performing live concerts.

Vikings band continued playing shows during the mid 80s, and the group changed their name to “Roanoke” when they signed a record contract in 1984.  The following year, two singles were released but received limit airplay locally on the biggest Top 40 station in the Roanoke Lynchburg market: K92 FM 92.3. Consequently, these songs did not chart nationally.

The Vikings band at Caesar’s Reunion 1982

The final ending for the band became reality in 1986, with the tragic, untimely death of group member Fred Frelantz.  For a complete history of the Vikings band, I am providing a link to an article that Holcomb wrote for the Roanoker Magazine in 2006, that is reprinted via the WROV History Online Website.

Fred Frelantz and the Vikings: Mr. Bojangles (Video produced after his death)
Woodsmoke band during mid 70s.
Medley of Woodsmoke songs.

The other band that Holcomb was associated with during the 70s is Woodsmoke. Along with Joy Ellis, the band was formed in 1975 and attracted a younger audience than patrons who came to attend Holcomb’s original Vikings band shows.

The Vikings performing at Festival in the Park concert, Downtown Roanoke.

While Holcomb is known for his singing and playing in Roanoke bands since the 60s, he is not just a one trick pony.  Equally as impressive is his creative talent writing music with Tommy Holcomb Productions.

Vikings cover of Kingston Trio song, “Scotch and Soda.”

In the field of advertising, Tommy has created hundreds of commercials featuring his musical genius. Before starting his own ad agency, Holcomb joined fellow Vikings band member Fred Frelantz, to work at Creative Advertising in Roanoke.

During his time at Creative, Holcomb wrote a musical jingle for Smartwear clothing store. Tommy enlisted his Vikings bandmates playing music and utilized Joy Ellis on vocals for the spot.

Smartwear music jingle ad 1971

Much to the surprise of Holcomb, his Smartwear commercial actually won a national ad agency award in 1971.  After his multiple success writing musical spots at Creative, Holcomb decided to launch out with his own ad agency.

Over the years, Holcomb has created many wonderful, catchy musical ads.  Below is a Roanoke jingle medley, a compilation of various musical ads that Holcomb has produced.

Roanoke Jingle Medley of Tommy Holcomb created musical ads.

Three years ago, Holcomb was honored by the Roanoke chapter of the American Advertising Federation (AAF), with its Silver Medal Award.  This AAF 2019 achievement recognized Tommy’s “outstanding lifetime contributions to advertising furthering the industry’s standards, creative excellence, and responsibility in areas of social concern.”

An 11 minute mix of some of the jingles that Tommy Holcomb created over the years. Many aired in the region around Roanoke, Virginia, Tommy’s hometown.

Tommy Holcomb doesn’t just write music for advertising.  He also has written songs about and for the city of Roanoke.

Vikings cover of Nilsson song, “Without You.”

Roanoke’s centennial happened in 1982 and Holcomb was commissioned by the Virginia City to write a song for the 100-year celebration. The composition is called “Roanoke Shining Through.” A YouTube video of this tune features paintings by Eric Fitzpatrick and photographs by Terry Aldhizer.

Another excellent tribute to Roanoke is a song written and performed by Holcomb called “Looking Back.”  Tommy fondly remembers living in the “Star City of the South” during younger years.

During 2011, Holcomb tried his hand in radio and hosted a show called Retro Roanoke Radio (RRR) on Sunny FM 93.5. The format of the weekly program had Holcomb playing 60s/70s oldies, talking about Roanoke in the 20th Century, airing musical spots he created and interviewing pop/rock artists.

Some of the artists that Holcomb interviewed on RRR were Davy Jones, Melanie, Petula Clark, Anne Murray and Robbin Thompson.

Compilation of Retro Roanoke Radio Interviews by Tommy Holcomb 2011.

For the past 15 years, Holcomb has been the Music Producer for the Miss Virginia Pageant. Seven years ago, Tommy wrote an orchestra score for one of Virginia’s official state songs: “Our Great Virginia” written by Mike Greenly. Miss Virginia contestants performed this arrangement during the 2015 pageant.

Woodsmoke band in the mid 70s.

An excellent podcast I want to recommend is episode 3 of the Larry Dowdy Mic Side podcast, where the retired popular Roanoke area DJ interviews Holcomb.  There is superb interchange of information provided by Dowdy and Holcomb with this Mic Side episode.

Last official Vikings photo prior to Fred Frelantz death.

It is clear to me that Holcomb exemplifies humility, as he has woven an awe-inspiring tapestry of living experiences within the area of music.

Vikings cover of Tanya Tucker song, “Delta Dawn.”

As I reflect upon Holcomb’s music legacy, he has enriched the lives of countless Roanoke residents with musical magic. For over 60 years, Holcomb has continued to share his music talent with folks all across the Roanoke Valley and Southwestern Virginia.

Without a doubt, Roanoke continues to be blessed, receiving wonderful gifts of harmonies and melodies by this marvelous music man:  Tommy Holcomb.

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Album Review, Artist Profiles, Music, Virginia Artists

Come Home: Album from Bent Mountain: Encouraging Bluegrass Music

The CD cover of Come Home by Bent Mountain. **All photos on this music blog message were provided courtesy of Quigg Lawrence.

In my home state of Virginia, many bluegrass song lyrics are written about topics pertinent to living life in the valleys and mountains of Appalachia.  Besides the universal subject of love, many Virginian bluegrass songs mention hard living, working the land, feeding families with wages below poverty or permanently loosing coal mining jobs.

In contrast to the lyrical content of most traditional bluegrass created within the Appalachian region of Virginia, others are producing music that is full of hope and encouragement. One such project is an album called “Come Home” by Bent Mountain.

The overall message with this new Roanoke, Virginia bluegrass compilation, can be found on the album’s front CD cover, referencing Matthew 11:28 from the New Testament of the Bible: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” 

The spiritual aspect of this project comes as no surprise, as the genesis for this new 10-track bluegrass music album comes from Dr. Quigg Lawrence, who is senior pastor at Church of the Holy Spirit, an Anglican parish in Roanoke, Virginia. Lawrence has ministered with his Roanoke congregation for 32 years.

Bishop Quigg Lawrence

In addition to his pastoral duties with Church of the Holy Spirit, Lawrence also serves as a Bishop for the Diocese of Christ Our Hope, which is part of the Anglican Church of North America (ACNA). Lawrence was consecrated Bishop in February 2013.

My family and I have been members with Church of the Holy Spirit (COTHS) since 2002, so I have shared many experiences with Pastor Lawrence over the past 19 years. Recently, I had the opportunity to speak with Lawrence about his new bluegrass album project.

During the beginning of my first interview with Bishop Lawrence, I asked two main questions:

1. Why was the name Bent Mountain selected?

2. What is the purpose and goal for recording the album?

Scott Mulvahill and Eric Imhof at Church of the Holy Spirit Roanoke during Bent Mountain recording session.

Bishop Quigg replied, “Bent Mountain is not the name of a band but is a collaboration of musical talent by my friends. Those friends include folks from Church of the Holy Spirit, plus musicians from Roanoke, Southwestern Virginia and even Nashville, Tennessee.”

Answering my second question, Lawrence stated the purpose and goal of the album: “It is a bluegrass style offering, created during Covid and a time while I was watching my mom battle cancer and go home to Jesus.

Lawrence continued, “The common theme with the 10 tracks on “Come Home” is death, resurrection and the “life of the world to come.” It is an invitation to come and experience the peace, rest and joy of the Lord”

The Inspiration behind “Come Home.” Quigg Lawrence TV Interview with Lindsey Ward WSLS Channel 10 Roanoke.  Daytime Blue Ridge show. May 24, 2021.

Bluegrass music has always been a passion for Bishop Lawrence.  His fondness for acoustic stringed instrumental music, formulated during his high school years in Richmond, Virginia.

While growing up, Lawrence loved listening to bluegrass records on his parent’s stereo system.  He also showed fondness of watching his father, Quigg Lawrence Senior play bluegrass music.

Lawrence’s dad owned Alpha Audio recording studio in Richmond where albums from many genres of music were recorded.  Quigg Senior also played in his own bluegrass band called BlueRidge.

Photo of Quigg Lawrence Senior and his band BlueRidge during 1982.

Over the years, Lawrence’s father would often have jam sessions and play with other talented bluegrass musicians. Included in the mix of talented performers that Quigg Senior played with are Ben Eldridge, Bill Clifton, Ralph Stanley and the Country Gentleman.

As a side note, Quigg Lawrence Senior once owned a 1954 Martin D-28 guitar back when he played bluegrass music.  The guitar is said to be “one of the best on the planet” according to Bishop Lawrence. Photo below is of the vintage 1954 Martin D-28 guitar.

Just before Quigg Lawrence Senior passed away, he sold his guitar to an unidentified buyer. Eventually, this famous guitar ended up being owned by Chris Eldridge, who is a guitarist and member of Punch Brothers band. Ironically, Eldridge is one of the musicians who performed on the “Come Home” album and he actually played the celebrated 1954 Martin D-28 guitar on many of the album’s tracks.

Chris Eldridge playing the 1954 Martin D-28 guitar during Bent Mountain recording sessions, that had once been owned by Quigg Lawrence Senior, father of Bishop Lawrence.

After graduation from high school, Lawrence attended the University of Virginia for two years and then earned a degree in emergency medicine from Central Washington University.

It was during this time period that Lawrence found his main pathway for living: Becoming a Christian and following Jesus.

 During the summer of 1980, a surfer friend of Lawrence gave him the book, “Basic Christianity” by John Stott.  By reading Stott’s book, Lawrence started understanding things in the Bible and began his journey as a Christian.

Obviously, proclamation of the gospel is important for Bishop Quigg.  He shared with me about his unique album set, “It has been my dream for several years to record the wide breadth of styles of music COTHS uses.  We regularly use banjo, mandolin and cello alongside electric guitars, keyboard, and bass.”

Julie Wright and Scott Mulvahill at Bent Mountain recording session: Church of the Holy Spirit Roanoke.

Two years ago, the COTHS worship team recorded an EP which included 4 original songs (both contemporary and traditional worship in style) and one cover tune. The brand-new Bent Mountain collaboration features a pleasing mixture of bluegrass and Americana genres of music.

Scott Mulvahill singing backup vocals for Bent Mountain album. Church of the Holy Spirit Roanoke.

Producer for the “Come Home” album is Scott Mulvahill, with Quigg Lawrence as executive producer and Evan Sieling handling engineering duties.

Besides Bishop Lawrence, there are four members of his COTHS congregation that contributed to the “Come Home” project:

*Eric Imhof:  Son-in-law of Quigg Lawrence, Worship Arts Pastor/Stewardship Pastor for COTHS.

Eric Imhof, Scott Mulvahill and Julie Wright taking break during Bent Mountain recording session.

*Julie Wright:  Former Worship Arts Pastor at COTHS and a current member of the praise/worship team.

*Ayden Young and Blane Young: The Brothers Young are a sibling bluegrass duo. Ayden is 15 and plays banjo with the COTHS praise/worship team. Blane age 10, is a mandolin player. Last October, I featured the Brothers Young with one of my music blogs here on DJ Dave’s Musical Musings:

Blane and Ayden Young: The Brothers Young duo from Roanoke, Virginia.

The remaining personnel who are part of the Bent Mountain collaboration, are all excellent musicians and performers.  In fact, Bishop Lawrence brought together a world-class, all-star ensemble for his debut compilation.

*Annie Lawrence:   Singer-songwriter who lives Nashville and has recorded multiple albums. She is the daughter of Quigg Lawrence and grew up in Roanoke. Two years ago, I featured Annie Lawrence’s musical story on my music blog:

awrence.

Annie Lawrence performing at Church of the Holy Spirit. Roanoke, Virginia.

*Scott Mulvahiill:  Front man, singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and world-renowned upright bassist.  Has played with Ricky Skaggs and Bruce Hornsby.  Now has a solo career. Mulvahill is producer of the Bent Mountain album.

Scott Mulvahill with upright bass during recording session for “Come Home” album.

*Junior Sisk:  Lead guitarist, vocalist and front man for the Junior Sisk Band.  Lives in Ferrum, Virginia. His past bands include Rambler’s Choice and BlueRidge.  Sisk has won numerous accolades including the 2013 International Bluegrass Music Association’s Male Vocalist of the Year award.

*Chris Eldridge:   Singer and guitarist.  Member of Punch Brothers: A hybrid bluegrass/classical/country/chamber band. In 2018, Punch Brothers won a Grammy for Best Folk Album with “All Ashore.”  Past member of the Infamous Stringdusters bluegrass band. His father is Ben Eldridge, founding member of the Seldom Scene.

*Justin Moses: Dobro maestro and multi-instrumentalist. Prominent Nashville session musician. Versatile musician in all forms of acoustic music. Named Dobro Player of the Year by the International Bluegrass Music Association. Married to singer-songwriter and mandolin player Sierra Hull since 2017.

Justin Moses playing a dobro guitar during Bent Mountain recording sessions.

*Sierra Hull: Virtuoso mandolinist, singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist.  Debut on Grand Ole Opry stage at age 10, played Carnegie Hall at 12 and had first recorded album at age 13. Married to Justin Moses. Performs and tours with husband as a duo.

*Russ Carson:   Superb banjo player.  Member of Ricky Skaggs’ band Kentucky Thunder. Started picking banjo at age 10. Bluegrass Today online considers Carson to be “among one of the top banjo players in the world.”

Russ Carson playing banjo at Bent Mountain recording session.

*Ryan Ogrodny:  Polka prodigy as a teen and plays the fiddle.  Nominated for a Grammy in the category of Best Polka Album in 2004. Ogrodny is a violin/fiddle professor at Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee.

* Doug Bartlett:  Fiddle specialist and multi-instrumentalist, formerly with Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver. Currently with Junior Sisk band. Received a couple of Grammy nominations in 1999 and 2000 for two separate bluegrass albums.

* Jonathan Dillon: Mandolin is main instrument with exceptional banjo skills.  Plays in the Junior Sisk band. At age 17, Dillon was nominated for “Mandolin Player – Performer of the Year” at the 2013 Society for the Preservation of Bluegrass Music of America Awards.

*Heather Mabe: Lead and harmony vocalist. Heather and her husband Tony are members of Junior Sisk Band.  Ms. Mabe is known for excellent harmonies, amazing tones and perfect pitch vocals.

Heather Mabe, Junior Sisk and others playing a bluegrass song.

There are a total of 10 tracks on the Bent Mountain album:

  1. Shoutin’ On the Hills of Glory (Featuring Quigg Lawrence)
  2. The Darkest Hour (Featuring Quigg Lawrence)
  3. Mother’s Only Sleeping (Featuring Eric Imhof)
  4. Little Birdie (Featuring Junior Sisk and the Brothers Young)
  5. Forever Ain’t No Trouble Now (Featuring Quigg Lawrence)
  6. Down the Road (Featuring Quigg Lawrence)
  7. You’ll Never Leave Harlan Alive (Featuring Eric Imhof and Julie Wright)
  8. Eulogy for Dr. Ralph Stanley (Spoken by Ricky Skaggs)
  9. Come to Jesus (Featuring Annie Lawrence)
  10.  Softly and Tenderly (Featuring Julie Wright)

Four songs on the album feature vocals by Bishop Lawrence. Eric Imhof and Julie Wright sing on three tracks: Both artists have lead vocals with a single song and the pair also perform a duet together.  Rounding out the singing tracks from the Bent Mountain assemble are vocalists Annie Lawrence and Junior Sisk.  

The tenth selection is not musical but actually the spoken word:  It is a eulogy that country/bluegrass superstar Ricky Skaggs gave at the funeral for the legendary Dr. Ralph Stanley, the Southwestern Virginia pioneer of bluegrass and country music genres.

Audio for “Eulogy for Dr. Ralph Stanley” by Ricky Skaggs. From Bent Mountain album.

Inclusion of Stanley’s eulogy on a bluegrass album may seem odd to some. However, Bishop Quigg says of Skaggs’ oratory, “I have never heard a clearer explanation of the Gospel.”

In breaking down the musical tunes from the “Come Home” production, the Gospel message pervades throughout each selection, and proclamation of Christian themes is at the forefront on this project. The musicianship on the album is outstanding.

Since I had an advance copy of “Come Home” last month, I have listened to the album multiple times. Before I heard the four songs where Bishop Quigg performs lead vocals, I was curious how Lawrence would sound, since he is not trained as a singer.

I was pleasantly surprised to hear Lawrence’s ease of delivery, showing confidence with his phrasing and comfort within the bluegrass genre of music. Bishop Quigg sounds assured with his debut recordings.

Bishop Quigg striking a pose while recording a song for the Bent Mountain album.

Besides Lawrence’s four tracks, the remaining 5 musical tunes are strong and showcase excellence among the various artists. 

  • You’ll Never Leave Harlan Alive:  Duet vocals by Eric Imhof and Julie Wright.  Cover of folk song written by Darrell Scott. The duo harmonize superbly and perform the album’s most melodic tune. Additional backup vocals are provided by Scott Mulvahill.
  • Come to Jesus: Annie Lawrence vocals.  Mindy Smith’s written song was a hit on multiple formatted radio stations in 2004.  Annie’s rendition is compelling and expressive. One of Lawrence’s best vocal performances during her recording career.
  • Little Birdie: Junior Sisk vocals.  Traditional bluegrass song. Most famous cover is by Dr. Ralph Stanley. The Brothers Young play on this tune performing their first recorded song. Sisk’s strong vocals are prominent on this selection.
  • Mother’s Only Sleeping:  Eric Imhof vocals.  Written by Bill Monroe in 1946. Song has been covered by the Stanley Brothers and many other bands. Imhof is effective with his engaging vocals on this traditional bluegrass tune.
  • Softly and Tenderly: Julie Wright vocals.  A Christian hymn composed and written by Will L. Thompson in 1880. The last song on the album features Wright singing a cappella and is absolutely transcendent. This outstanding vocal performance is the crown jewel on the “Come Home” album.

The new Bent Mountain album is now available on all major streaming platforms and can be purchased online at Amazon and Apple itunes.

I highly recommend the “Come Home” Bent Mountain compilation set.  Musically, it is top-notch, with nationally acclaimed instrumental performers.  One would be hard pressed to find a similar grouping of world-class musicians together, on any other music album collection.

The message of “Come Home” encompasses many different attributes:  It is calling, challenging and questioning, but also is hopeful and encouraging.  

Without a doubt, the essential theme for the Bent Mountain album is found within the “Softly and Tenderly” chorus, the traditional hymn that closes this superb album: “Come home, come home, you who are weary come home.”

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