I only covered two stories in Tennessee.  One was <a href=” http://www.thunderontherock.net/”>Thunder on The Rock</a> I love bikes and photography, Music and just plain ol’ fun.

I had to cancel everything else.  I know I let a lot of people down but I did what I thought was best for the family.  Now I am back to work, pushing my way thru events to write the story that will change next year’s season.  I am taking suggestion for events. If you have one, or a place you would like me to see drop me a line and let me know.  Thank you for all the people who took the time to help me in our time of need.  I keep saying God is good to me, just look where I live and work in and around Tennessee.

People did try to cover events for me.  Then they found out it isn’t all fun.  It’s hot or cold or snowing or just rain.  Then if you don’t write the story and turn it in well what was the point of all that work.  Everybody wants to go but no one wants to write.

If the world is going to end this year then let’s make it a damn good year, what’d ya’ say.

Once again thank you to all the Performers who came out and helped.  All monies collected went into a nonprofit trust for medical bills.

I only covered two stories in Tennessee.  One was <a href=” http://www.thunderontherock.net/”>Thunder on The Rock</a> I love bikes and photography, Music and just plain ol’ fun.

I had to cancel everything else.  I know I let a lot of people down but I did what I thought was best for the family.  Now I am back to work, pushing my way thru events to write the story that will change next year’s season.  I am taking suggestion for events. If you have one, or a place you would like me to see drop me a line and let me know.  Thank you for all the people who took the time to help me in our time of need.  I keep saying God is good to me, just look where I live and work.

People did try to cover events for me.  Then they found out it isn’t all fun.  It’s hot or cold or snowing or just rain.  Then if you don’t write the story and turn it in well what was the point of all that work.  Everybody wants to go but no one wants to write.

If the world is going to end this year then let’s make it a damn good year, what’d ya’ say.

Once again thank you to all the Performers who came out and helped.  All monies collected went into a nonprofit trust for medical bills.

We Will Remember His Family in our Thoughts and Prayers

Charlie Louvin’s latest Video-Directed by Christian Moriarty
Edited by Christian Moriarty & Kevin Steele
Produced by Brett Steele

Steele Management
7002 124th Terrace N.
Largo, FL 33773

Little Jimmy Dickens was recently honored at Tootsies in Nashville. I wasn’t there though; I was across the street at the sister club, Rippy’s. Rippys is right across the street from Bridgestone arena and are known for their Ribs. This is a beautiful resturant and if I were planing an event I think this would be the perfect place. One of the young ladies tending bar named Jessica developled a new drink just for the evening we called the “Jessica”.

There are times in life when we know we have met someone of outstanding character.

The day I meet Little Jimmy Dickens was one of those times. You can see the honesty, compassion and the true love for his fans, as well as his peers. I have stated in the past that Little Jimmy Dickens is truly an American Icon. I still feel that way and still believe he represents the very best in us. Not just in Country Music but in us as Americans – as people. He may be less than 5 ft. tall but he has strength in chacacter that is undeniably strong. His spirit and good nature are reasons people gravitate to him. It is easy to be a loud mouth and rude, but it is much harder to show grace and understanding.
Little Jimmy Dickens spent his 90^th birthday party working. He answered questions about himself, the Opry, longevity and life. Speaking softly, he answered each question with a smile and sense of humor, showing grace and patience. Seen here is my favorte interview with Channel 4′s Jennifer Herron www.wsmv.com/better-nashville. You can see the real connection to her as he answers each question for Better-Nashville.
This is what makes Little Jimmy Dickens great.

He connects.

Mayor Carl Dean presented what I believe to be a certificate of appreciation for his work with the Opry, the community, and all that he has achieved in the past 70 plus years in the music business while recognizing the fact that Little Jimmy Dickens was the first performer to ever have a ‘World Tour.’ I was hopeful for a “Dickens Day”, but maybe that is probably better left for a warmer day. Among the many guest were Guy Gilchrist, best know for drawing the Nancy Cartoon. Guy immortalized Little Jimmy in is own comic strip

The rooms were filled with family and friends,as can be seen here in this group photo.

All of us here at Tennesseetourist.com wish Little Jimmy Dickens the best of health, and happiness for many years to come.

This is my favorite time of the year.  This is the time when ordinary people do the most extraordinary things.  This has been a year of extra ordinary circumstances.The flood in Nashville took resourses that otherwise would have stayed close to home.   The Christmas Angel Program is designed to help the local area with much need aide.  Warm coats, food and then toys. Winchester combined forces to raise money for the children in the area.  With the local high school donating the use of the gym The Christmas Angels Program  was born.  The Rebelettes, with the help of Beth Rhoten, maned the concession stand. The first to take the stage was a young lady named Olivia Henley. Olivia sings Christian music and was discovered, believe it or not, at a funeral.  She has a clear, crisp, and stong voice.  Taking the stage without hesitation and leaving her on stage jitters with her Mother.  I expect to see more of Olivia. Young Kandace Wimley went on next.  singing songs from Carrie Underwood and Sugerland.  She is small and vibrant young lady who takes the stage and makes it her own.  Steve Salyers, a well-known local favorite, brings his own brand of music, with a soulful – country sound. Soulful – country, not a term I thought I would ever use. His rendition of Purple Rain brought in what may have been the highest single donation of the night.  Steve wil be playing at the Rutledge in Nashville on the 30th of November at 6:pm. The Rutledge has limited free parking so get there early. 

 Everyboby was waiting in anticipationn for Bucky Covington.  American Idol participant. Every American Idol participant I have met has a fan club with loyal and devoted fans that come hundreds of miles to see them. Referenced by performers such as Bo Bice and his “Peeps”. Bucky has his the Buckaroos or Buckettes.  At this concert, on this night I meet Silvia Faulkner and her daughter who have seen Bucky Covington 12 times and met him in person 9  times. I can see why she has seen him so many times . He is energetic, funny and playing everything  from a different World to Pink Floyd. 

Mark Chestnutt ended the evening. He has such a smooth, laid back performance. He is a stark contrast to the youthful energy of Buck Covington and Steve Salyers.  Guitar in hand and his band backing him up he sang a combination of his old and new songs. With 14 number one hits there are a lot of classic county to choose from.  Look for Mark Chesnutt Outlaw  in store near you.  Look for all of these fine musicians on I tunes or on concert near you.

We want to give a shout out to:  The event was presented by WCDT Radio and Tennessee Car Care Center. Special thanks to Builder’s Supply; Wreck-A-Mended; Ingles Construction; V.R. Williams Insurance; Kathy Bennett, Photographer; KK’s Music; Larry London Catering; Food Lion; Wal-Mart; Interlocal Solid Waste Authority; and Valley Mini Storage. Franklin County High School – Winchester, TN

  The Bell Buckle benefit for Charlie Louvin http://charlielouvin.net/was a great success. The performers included Indiana bluegrass music legends the Wildwood Valley Boys. Alison Krauss came in and it was standing room only. For those of you who haven’t heard, Charlie Louvin is a battling pancreatic cancer, so, the town of Bell Buckle filled its banquet hall with food, friends, and music to help this famous and well-loved iconic musician.  I know for a fact that he was front line in helping with the flood victims in May and now it was time for Tennessee’s love to come back to him. An auction was held to help the family financially with the pile of medical bills that cancer brings with it. The show of support from family, friends, and fans will make a difference in his life.

   I don’t know that you can grow up with an appreciation of country music and not know Charlie Louvin http://charlielouvin.net/. He comes from that legendary stock that truly believes that right is right and the fans are the base of his success. I met Charlie thru his performance at the “Jamboree By The Lake”  music festival sponsored Stardust Records.http://www.stardustcountrymusic.com/  Owned by his good friend Barbara Doss Brewer.  He has always gone that extra step for the performance and the fans. I have seen him stand on stage in a heat that knocked performers half his age out and not once complain. I asked him why he wasn’t complaining like some of the rest of the performers and his response was, “This is what I choose to do!  I am lucky to be able to do something I love. The heat, cold, and rain are a part of life, a part of living, a part of performing on stage.”

  I think it is that attitude that draws people of all walks of life to Charlie Louvin.  I watched as he patiently signed record albums and took photos all day.  Here he signs a couple of treasures for Jason Gelez of “Color my Shirt”. http://www.colormyshirt.com/newsite/index.php. I watched as Charlie Louvin tried to make each autograph something special while taking time to smile for pictures through out the day.  If you would like to make a donation to the Charlie Louvin Cancer Fund go to http://charlielouvin.net

I do apologize to Charlie Louvin. I did not stay for Alison Krauss.  They were trumped by Grand children trick or treating.

Special Thanks to

J.Gregory Heinike - Bell Buckle Banquet Hall - Bell Buckle Cafe http://www.bellbucklebanquethall.com/The_Bell_Buckle_Banquet_Hall/Home.html

Jason Gelez of “Color my Shirt”. http://www.colormyshirt.com/newsite/index.php    

Dan Hays and the International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) of Nashville, Tenn., for donating two VIP packages tonext year’s IBMA awards show at the Ryman Auditorium and two VIP passes to the IBMA FanFest, which is held annually at the Nashville Convention Center

Charlie Louvin’s latest Video-Directed by Christian Moriarty
Edited by Christian Moriarty & Kevin Steele
Produced by Brett Steele

Steele Management
7002 124th Terrace N.
Largo, FL 33773

So I wasn’t expecting much. The boys were nice enough and I thought, “With a spot at 10 on a Sunday Morning – well maybe they’re not so good.” I know better than to let anyone else do my thinking for me. ‘WOW’ is all I can say. They said they are a combo of Hendrix, Waters, Zeppelin, and Dylan.

They are so much more than that. They have a casual connection with the guitar that makes them come alive. When I pick up a camera it becomes a part of me and some people play in that manner. Bryan and Jim play that way without over playing. To me overplaying isn’t playing. They can play that front porch blues that most people are unaware of. If you would like to hear a sample of Dead Levy go to http://www.myspace.com/deadlevy

It is the new call of the wild. That roar you hear going down the road and the feeling you get as you see all those bikes go past. It’s a migration toward the mountain. Only this migration is one of steel and thunder. In the back of your mind you wonder if they are going your way. Moving on up the mountain you know they are going your way as more and more bikes come together to meet in front of the ticket gate. Meeting friends from past years event in line is something almost every one does. And it doesn’t matter if it is your first year or if this is your 4th year, you are certain to meet friends at this rally.

For some of us, it is just a flash back to the days of summers by the lakes, bands and bikes. (OK, maybe that was just my experience.) Then there are others that just came to cut lose because they can. I am not the bike magazine that everyone looks for. I leave that up to my friends at Thunder Roads. (Hey Guys!) I could write a story about the bike show and the different divisions like retro, classic, rat, and all about who won what. I could write a story about the games, slow ride and hot dog bite, or how things went down in the burn out pit and about how I rode thru the camps and chose my pick for the best camp.

We all know why I go to festivals, fairs, and rallies of any kind and it’s not to see naked people, not to party, but to see the bands. Who are the new bands to play and who have we seen before. Who is well able to take the elements and draw the crowd to the stage? You will hear me say quite often how “God has been good to me”, even when things seem to go all wrong.

Here are some of the bands I saw at this years Thunder on the Rock. We will start with NoElvis!

NoElvis

I love this Rally you never know what you will see as far as entertainment goes. So far all types are welcome.

However, I didn’t think I would ever see Elvis at a bike rally but hey, this, my friends, is no ordinary bike rally. NoElvis took the stage with two of the Thunder-goddesses and guess what – everyone had a great time.  NoElvis works at the The Station House Restaurant  in Chattanooga during the week. If he had taken himself too seriously it would have not been such a good show. As it was, he was brilliant! It was a great way to start the day.

Jackyl

The heard liners were Jackyl, Blackfoot, Colt Ford, Geneva, and Big Engine. And just who do I talk about first? That’s right, NoElvis. Let’s face it, it took more guts for NoElvis to step on stage than it did any of the others and I always admire courage.

 Of course everyone knows Jackyl – Jesse Dupree, (Vocals, Chainsaw), Jeff Worley (Guitar), Roman Glick (bass), Chris Worley (drums). They did come in like a Georgia tornado, bringing a combination of Heavy Metal / Rock ‘n Roll show that included his signature chainsaws. The show brings the same energy and excitement on stage that he has off. In like a whorl wind. Jesse and the band did a special song for “The Squidbillies” for Adult Swim. If you are true fan you already know this. Until I did my research I didn’t realize Jesse was involved in so many TV Projects. Shows like “Rock the Ink”, “The Spread” I know thru the guitar playing and chainsaw welding. There was more but until I saw them in person I didn’t know how much more. I got the impression that Jesse James Dupree is running 90 to nothing in order not to miss a thing. Don’t you dare miss their latest album!

Jackal’s latest studio album, “When Moonshine and Dynamite Collide “ is now available in store and on line.

Blackfoot

I hadn’t seen Blackfoot before. As a matter of fact, the only thing I know for sure is that I enjoy their music. Blackfoot was originally made up of founding members Jackson Spires, Charlie Hargrett, Greg T. Walker and former Blackfoot lead guitarist Bobby Barth.  In 2004 the fans of Blackfoot petitioned them to come out and reunite and do a reunion tour. Sadly in 2005 Jackson Spires passed away unexpectedly. In their story it is said, “As luck would have it Christophe Ullmann was visiting from Vienna.” Luck had nothing to do with it. This was one of those ‘meant to be’ cases, a phenomenon that can’t be explained so why try. Bobby Barth was forced off the road in 2006 and the band called up Jay Johnson to step in until his return. They were joined by New Orleans drummer Michael Sollars and are back to as close as possible to the original lineup.

What is my impression of Blackfoot! They are the professionals that don’t lose it when things go crazy. Things like the rain and an amp that suddenly refuses to work. It was moment to remember. I was taking pictures on stage when I didn’t hear the guitar, even thru my ear plugs. I didn’t know if it was the rain or me till I saw Greg T Walker do what all of us do when something suddenly quites working, take a fist to it! Greg applied the proper force to the top of the amp but nothing happened. With that came stage hands from all directions to solve the problem. Charlie Hargrett continued to play knowing something was wrong. With a slow turn toward the back and seeing all the commotion he just took it to a higher level. Playing to the audience, then turning to Jay Johnson and they kept playing. The amp was fixed quickly and Greg T Walker stepped back out front guitar blasting. The impression left on the audience was, “This is the best show ever!” 

Colt Ford

They tried to explain to me what kind of music Colt Ford did before the show ever started.I kept going “What??? Is it Rap??? Hip Hop??? What????” OK, you can’t explain Colt Ford. He is a combination of rhythmic speech, singing, and harmonies. Click to view slideshow.All together Colt Ford is his own style and his own man. His is a new way to talk about growing up country. Drinking ice tea, having cat head biscuits, and fishin’ with cane poles are just some of the things you hear about. I hope to see him again soon. He puts on a dynamic show. You have to see Colt Ford and just remember, he is not your Daddy’s country. Look for (Colt Ford )’Nuf Said!

Geneva

When you think of Nashville, TN you certainly don’t think of Geneva Keen. Geneva strives to be the ultimate biker band. The music, dress and persona come together to make this a show to see. They play hard and they work hard. The band in 2009 is involved in a TV project which is shown on selected Fox networks. With Geneva as the star and her band as the supporting cast, Dwayne Jones – drummer, Crash – guitarists, Dick Thunder on bass. Doing a combination of their original music and old standards they rock the stage not only for bike rally’s but for a variety of charities which have become important to Geneva over the years. If you think you have the best Bike event contact Geneva’s TV Show “Rock and Ride”

 http://www.myspace.com/genevatheband

http://vids.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=vids.individual&videoid=104628203

Geneva brought with her The Exterminators (Vexcon) form A&E. If the truth be told I didn’t know who Billy and Ricky were. Trust me when I tell you this though, Big Engine did. Just by their reaction I had to ask, “Who is this?” After a little research I find out they are from Louisiana. If you have a problem with gators, pythons, roaches, bees, armadillos, and skunks or squirrels, these are the people to call. The whole family came to Thunder on the Rock to sign autographs and hang out with Geneva. exterminator/index.jsp On the show Mom Donna is concerned for the moment about Ricky finding a good  hearted woman . So what happens when Ricky comes to TN? The girls make a Ricky sandwich out of him! It was great to meet the whole family. Make plans to check out their show on A&E! http://www.aetv.com/billy-the

Big Engine

For those of you who don’t know, Big Engine is one of my favorite bands to watch. I never really get to hear the show while I am shooting but they put on such a great show I get to see a great show ear plugs and all. You know it is something when other bands take a moment to watch. Especially the drummer Benny who was classical trained. Last year he told me how when he started playing rock he discovered that he had extra time on his hands, so to speak, so he started doing tricks with his sticks while he was playing. You’ll see that he never misses a beat! With two CD’s to their credit and a great stage presence this is a group that will continue to ‘Rock the House’ wherever they play. Visit them online @ www.bigengine.com to find out where they’ll be playing next and to listen to cuts from their CD’s. With songs like, “Ride it Like You Stole It”. “That Girl’s a Freak”, “Wasted” and their anathematic theme song, “Party Like a Rock Star” I know once you listen to these guys you too will have a new favorite band.

Sunny Ledfurd

Those were the main bands that were advertised. So who else did we meet? The most unusual band is Sunny Ledfurd.  http://www.sunnyledfurd.com/. Sunny Ledfurd was born in Chattanooga but raised in NC. He is with Average Joe’s Entertainment which I believe still acts as Colt Fords Rep. If you’ve ever seen Sunny Ledfurd you would know how that explains a whole lot. They are a combination, of all things, County and Snoop Dog! I know. How can that be true! He has a new sound that includes a bass box (I had to ask, “What is that?” Can you really play box? And, well, of course you can.) Sunny Ledfurd sells most of his music on ITunes. He is young, imaginative, inspiring and brings something new to world of music by combining rock, county, and rap.

Those were all the guys on the main stage but there was plenty of music on the second stage.

Bands like Black Friday, they did a Heavy Metal sound and I think they were good but they did do a rendition of a Lynard Skynard in Heavy Metal.  OK, it was interesting, funny good and I was getting tired of Skynaryd. Howdy Joe Get ‘M, Crunk Bones Jones, Bobby Hayes just to name a few. There was such a variety of music from southern rock to heavy metal to country. I missed Crunk Bones Jones and that became another story. Look for it later. (Dead Levy and River House)

 The other Main act of this rally was 

The Globe of Death-