“I have two heads, I am growing a set of wings – which means I am headed for heaven … the audience will get a good show …” William S. Levise, Jr – aka Mitch Ryder, is known for a sense of humor that borders on offending people. Something he says is not intentional and comes from being born in the Midwest. Ryder was influenced by his … Continue reading Mitch Ryder Speaks … Part Two
The kids’ hearts are in the proper place … That was the feeling jumping around The Rialto Theater on Friday in Montreal. The children of Duke Ellington – April and Edward Jr., suspended in time. Starting with their clothes, the duo transcended time and place right back to the era of the Big Band prominence of the 1940’s. With the big band boppin’ behind them, … Continue reading Savvy with The Savoy Ellingtons
On this day in 1970, Janis Joplin was found dead at the Landmark Hotel in Hollywood. A heroin overdose is suspected. In an interview I conducted with Jerry Mercer, the iconic drummer for the Triangle, Mashmaakan, April Wine and the Buzz Band – Mercer relayed this tale of a sad encounter with Janis Joplin … Mercer and his band at the time – Mashmaakan, were … Continue reading Janis Joplin – Found Dead Oct.4 1970
Rick Keene Music Scene 