Tuesday, October 31, 2017

John Lennon's Copy Of Beatles' 'Butcher Cover' Up For Auction

An extremely rare stereo copy of the "butcher cover" version of The Beatles' 1966 album Yesterday and Today, once owned by John Lennon, will be up for bid at a memorabilia auction in Dallas on Saturday, November 11.

The LP is a prototype copy with a blank back that Lennon decorated with a personalized drawing for a Beatles bootleg collector named Dave Morrell.  Lennon traded the album to Morrell in exchange for a reel-to-reel recording of the Fab Four bootleg Yellow Matter Custard.

Lennon signed the front of the album "To Dave from/ John Lennon/ Dec 7th 71," and Morrell later was able to get Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr to autograph the cover as well.

Heritage Auctions, which is hosting the sale, has deemed the LP "the rarest Beatles record in the world." An initial bid of $100,000 already has been offered for the album, although Heritage expects it to sell for more than $200,000.

The LP will come with a number of letters of authentication, including one from respected Beatles expert Gary Hein, who says, "There is no Beatles album in the world that compares with this one, in my professional opinion, in terms of both rarity and value."

Among the other high-priced items going on the block at the November 11 sale in Dallas is a 1963 Martin acoustic guitar that Bob Dylan played at George Harrison's 1971 Concert for Bangladesh and on his own 1975-1976 Rolling Thunder Revue tour. The starting bid for the guitar is $300,000.

To find out more about the sale, visit HA.com.


Friday, October 27, 2017

Otis Redding Studio Albums Vinyl Box Dropping Just Before Christmas

Next year will be the 50th anniversary of Otis Redding topping the charts with his signature song, "(Sittin' On) The Dock Of The Bay." Unfortunately the single's success was bittersweet, as Redding tragically passed away in a plane crash just weeks before its release. Leading up to the "Dock Of The Bay" milestone, Rhino will introduce a new vinyl collection that brings together all seven of the iconic soul singer's studio albums. Big O's biggest hits are all here, from "Pain In My Heart" and "These Arms Of Mine" to "Respect" and "Try A Little Tenderness."

Otis Redding: The Definitive Studio Album Collection will be available as a seven-LP set from Rhino on December 15 for $109.98.

The albums included in the collection are: Pain In My Heart (1964), The Great Otis Redding Sings Soul Ballads (1965), Otis Blue/Otis Redding Sings Soul (1965), The Soul Album (1966), Complete and Unbelievable...The Otis Redding Dictionary of Soul (1966), King & Queen - Otis Redding & Carla Thomas (1967), and The Dock of the Bay (1968).

All of the LPs replicate the original packaging, from the sleeve artwork down to small details like the original record labels (Volt and Stax) and catalog numbers, all housed together in a side-loading slipcase. Several of these albums are long out-of-print and back on vinyl in mono for the first time in years.

The music follows Redding's career from his 1964 debut Pain In My Heart up to The Dock of the Bay, which was released in February 1968, just a few months after the singer's untimely death in December 1967. Despite his short career, Redding recorded songs that helped define soul in the Sixties and beyond.

The albums are packed with Top Ten R&B hits: "Chained And Bound," "Mr. Pitiful," "I've Been Loving You Too Long" and his cover of the Rolling Stones' "(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction." Another obvious highlight is "Respect," a song Redding wrote and recorded in 1965, which later become a massive hit for Aretha Franklin. Another essential is "Tramp" from his unforgettable duets album with Carla Thomas, King & Queen. As it happens, that's also the last album the singer would release during his lifetime.

Redding's music career began fatefully in 1962 when an unexpected opportunity to record two songs led to a contract with Stax Records in Memphis. Throughout his career, the singer was backed by the legendary Stax house band: keyboardist Booker T. Jones, guitarist Steve Cropper, bassist Donald "Duck" Dunn, and drummer Al Jackson Jr.

Thursday, October 26, 2017

Bob Dylan Guitar Could Fetch $300K At Auction

A guitar played by Bob Dylan at notable concerts in 1970s is expected to sell for more than $300,000 when it goes up for auction next month.

Heritage Auctions said the 1963 Martin D-28 acoustic guitar that once belonged to the singer-songwriter will be offered up Nov. 11 in Dallas. Heritage says Dylan played the guitar through his set at George Harrison’s Concert for Bangladesh in New York City in 1971 and during his Rolling Thunder Revue tour from October 1975 to May 1976.

The guitar is being sold by Larry Cragg, who was Dylan’s guitar repairman when Cragg bought it from him in 1977. The original receipt from the purchase, which is included in the offering, notes that the guitar was bought for $500.

Though a musician himself, Cragg said he’s never played the guitar and it’s been kept in in a humidity- and temperature-controlled environment.

“It has the same bridge pins, everything is just like it was when he had it: same case and everything, just like it was 40 years ago,” said Cragg, who has a San Francisco Bay Area business renting vintage instruments and has had a long career as a guitar technician and repairman, working with the likes of Prince, Bruce Springsteen, Carlos Santana, Jefferson Airplane and Neil Young.

Cragg said Dylan’s guitar is so famous that “it’s kind of past being a guitar now. It’s the kind of thing that you’d think that people would put in a glass case or in a museum somewhere.”

Mike Gutierrez, consignment director at Heritage, said it’s uncommon for such guitars to go up for sale.

“Most of these guitars are owned by the celebrities and they either don’t need to sell them or they don’t sell them,” Gutierrez said. “So they very, very rarely come on the market.”

The Fender Stratocaster that Dylan played at the 1965 Newport Folk Festival when he went electric sold for almost $1 million in 2013 at Christie’s in New York City. That guitar was sold by a New Jersey family who had kept it for nearly 50 years after Dylan left it on a private plane.




Wednesday, October 25, 2017

Sting: Live At The Olympia Paris Coming To Video On November 10

Eagle Vision and Cherrytree Management have announced the release of Sting: Live At The Olympia Paris on November 10 on DVD, blu-ray and digital download. Physical pre-orders are open now.

Sting: Live At The Olympia Paris captures the musician’s critically-acclaimed guitar-driven rock tour as it hit the French capital for a very special performance at the iconic venue in April, 2017. Hailed “the show of a lifetime” (The Vancouver Globe & Mail), Live At The Olympia Paris celebrates highlights from across the 16-time Grammy Award winner’s illustrious career, with blistering performances of new songs from his latest album 57th & 9th including the infectious first single,“I Can’t Stop Thinking About You”, and the anthemic “50,000”, alongside classic hits from The Police as well as Sting’s solo career. Sting: Live At The Olympia Paris showcases the wide range of his eclectic style and songwriting influences in one momentous live show.

Sting is joined onstage by a four-piece band including his longtime guitarist, Dominic Miller, Josh Freese (drums), Rufus Miller (guitar) and Percy Cardona (accordion), with backing vocals from Joe Sumner plus Diego Navaira & Jerry Fuentes of Warner Music Nashville recording artists, The Last Bandoleros.  Bonus content features 9 performances from Sting and special guests.

Praise for the 57th & 9th World Tour includes “This one was a treat for the fans” (Vancouver Sun); “Nothing short of brilliant” (Mass Live); ”Sting’s current incarnation finds him at his best” (The Daily Gazette, Saratoga); “It may look effortless – but being this good for this long takes something very special.” (The Independent)

The sold out 57th & 9th World Tour was presented by Live Nation and began on February 1 in Vancouver, Canada. After a total of 115 concerts throughout North America, Asia, Latin America & Europe, the tour will conclude on October 17 in Romania.

Sting’s 57th & 9th was released in November 2016 by A&M/Interscope Records, and was a Top 10 album in multiple countries around the globe.

Of the album, VintageRock said: "It’s good to have Sting back in the world of rock and roll."

Tuesday, October 24, 2017

Judas Priest Set Launch 'Firepower' 2018 North American Tour

One of heavy metal’s most legendary acts will be hitting the road in 2018 in support of their new studio album, ‘Firepower.’ The ‘Judas Priest: Firepower 2018 Tour’ will kick off on March 13th in Pennsylvania, and wrap up on May 1st in Texas.

The new album (which was produced by Andy Sneap and Tom Allom) is due in early 2018 and the tour will feature the lineup of singer Rob Halford, guitarists Glenn Tipton and Richie Faulkner, bassist Ian Hill, and drummer Scott Travis.

All dates will be running a “Judas Priest Fan Presale” starting Wednesday, October 25th, 2017 at 10:00 A.M local time with the password "FIREPOWER" that fans can use to purchase tickets in advance. Check the local venue for additional information.

There are few heavy metal bands that have managed to scale the heights that Judas Priest have during their 40 year career - originally formed during the early '70s in Birmingham, England, Judas Priest is responsible for some of the genre's most influential and landmark albums (1980's British Steel, 1982's Screaming For Vengeance, 1990's Painkiller, etc.) and for decades have been one of the greatest live bands in the entire heavy metal genre including an iconic performance at Live Aid in 1985 - they also brought metal to the masses by their appearance on American Idol in 2011 - plus Judas Priest were one of the first metal bands to exclusively wear leather and studs -  a look that began during this era and was eventually embraced by metal fans throughout the world! More recently, the band was nominated for induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

And come 2018, North American headbangers will get the opportunity to experience the mighty Priest on a nearby concert stage!

Confirmed tour dates:

3/13/2018 - Mohegan Sun Arena at Casey Plaza - Wilkes Barre, PA
3/15/2018 - Covelli Centre - Youngstown, OH
3/17/2018 - Nassau Coliseum - Uniondale, NY
3/18/2018 - The Anthem - Washington, DC
3/20/2018 - Prudential Center - Newark, NJ
3/22/2018 - Mohegan Sun Arena - Uncasville, CT
3/25/2018 - The Arena at TD Place- Ottawa, ON
3/27/2018 - Budweiser Gardens - London, ON
3/28/0208 - Tribute Communities Centre - Oshawa, ON
3/30/2018 - Casino Rama - Orillia, ON
3/31/2018 - Detroit Masonic Temple - Detroit, MI
  4/3/2018 - Riverside Theater - Milwaukee, WI
  4/5/2018 - Resch Center - Green Bay, WI
  4/8/2018 - Grossinger Motors Arena - Bloomington, IL
4/10/2018 - Casper Events Center  - Casper, WY
4/11/2018 - Budweiser Events Center - Loveland, CO
4/15/2018 - ShoWare Center - Kent, WA
4/17/2018 - Veterans Memorial Coliseum - Portland, OR
4/19/2018 - The Warfield - San Francisco
4/22/2018 - Microsoft Theater - Los Angeles, CA
4/24/2018  - Comerica Theatre - Phoenix, AZ
4/26/2018 - BOK Center - Tulsa, OK
4/28/2018 - The Bomb Factory - Dallas, TX
4/29/2018 - Smart Financial Centre - Sugarland, TX
  5/1/2018 - Freeman Coliseum - San Antonio, TX

Monday, October 23, 2017

New Grateful Dead Photography Book Documents Band's Entire Career

Eyes of the World: Grateful Dead Photography 1965 – 1995 is a fine art, hardcover coffee table photography book that brings together, for the first time, a comprehensive collection of photographs from a wide range of photographers whose work has captured the Grateful Dead at different times throughout their career.

Co-Edited by former Relix editor-in-chief Josh Baron and famed rock photographer Jay Blakesberg, Eyes of the World  via Rock Out Books and can be ordered at www.eyesoftheworldbook.com and at most other book retailers.

Shocking as it may seem — particularly given the unparalleled job the band’s shepherds did in documenting its history — until now there has been no definitive visual reference encompassing the 30 year career of the Grateful Dead.

“What we also realized in assessing this book project,” explains Baron, “is that even for those images that fans had seen before, the vast majority had only seen them on a computer screen. Most people—including Jay and I — had never seen the majority of these images printed in large format.”

Over the course of six months of research, Baron and Blakesberg reached out to more than 100 individual photographers (or in some cases, their representatives) to see if they’d be willing to submit their images for review.  After much deliberation, countless conversations and 32 versions of the eventual layout, they landed on 220 images captured by 61 photographers across 272 pages that would become Eyes of the World, the book.

Photographers featured in Eyes of the World include such legendary names as Annie Leibovitz, Jim Marshall, David Gahr, Mark Seliger, Herb Greene, William Coupon, Michael O’Neill, Adrian Boot, Michael Putland, Peter Simon, Baron Wolman and, of course, Jay Blakesberg. Included in the collection are iconic images, lesser known photos, and never-seen before seen images  — each of them a singular perspective of a poignant moment that together help tell the Grateful Dead’s epic tale through large, bold imagery.

“There were quite a few of us photographers fortunate to have had the opportunity to help document the Grateful Dead,” Blakesberg says. “But no single photographic perspective can tell this band’s full story. For many years, I have thought a book that considered the archives of numerous photographers - Jim Marshall, Herb Greene, myself, and others - would be the ultimate photography book on this band. It was Josh who went above and beyond, seeking out the rare and unseen archives that truly makes this a unique collection.  I’m very happy to see this book come to life.”

Each of the images included on the pages of Eyes of the World were originally shot on film. Many of them have been reproduced for the first time via high-resolution scan, allowing them to be viewed anew. Unfettered in presentation, each photograph holds relevance and weight, many of them taking up a full page or more.

As renowned musician and photographer Graham Nash writes in the book’s forward, “It’s obvious that the authors of these photographs were great fans and also that they had a unique perspective. They were ‘trusted.’ Trusted so much that it’s certain that the band were completely comfortable in revealing the many faces of themselves.” 

Nash continues, “It’s moments like these that photographers live for: the ability to be invisible so that no one knows you’re there. That’s when the good shots happen and that’s when I realize how lucky the band was to have such talented witnesses to their journey.”

As the band’s own Phil Lesh notes, “These photographs really capture the spirit of the Grateful Dead’s 30-year adventure.”

Whether a Grateful Dead veteran who caught them in the heady days of the late 60s in San Francisco, or a millennial who made it to Chicago for Fare The Well in 2015, Eyes of the World: Grateful Dead Photography 1965 – 1995 provides fans of all ages and stages the opportunity to see this band in a way they never have before.

Upcoming book signings, with more to be announced soon:

  • New York: Morrison Hotel Gallery, Saturday, 10/28, 1-5pm
  • Bay Area: Terrapin Crossroads, Thursday, 11/30, night time

Saturday, October 21, 2017

Historic Eric Clapton Guitar: "The Heir to Blackie" Goes On Sale


When Eric Clapton's coveted Blackie guitar sold at Christies in In 2004 at a then-record-breaking price of $959,500, the guitar world was astounded.  That guitar was Eric's favorite "sidekick" for more than 15 years and was known to music fans throughout the world.  In the years since, major guitars have now sold into the multi-millions, but the sale of Blackie at nearly $1 million 13 years ago provided a tipping point in the perception of value for such historic instruments.

Offered in that same auction was another very special guitar that Clapton collaborated in designing in order to replace Blackie several years after its retirement.  It was created in Blackie's image, ultimately with the famed black and white two-tone colors, and upon its completion in 1990, it became the guitarist's standard go-to instrument throughout 1990-1993.

Of course, it was Blackie that was the big newsmaker at the Christies auction that night, but another story was brewing. The replacement Blackie now being offered also received serious attention that evening with bidding going to $200,000. As it turned out, the successful bidder was not able to follow through, and the guitar was then offered by Clapton himself, over the phone, to the second highest bidder. That bidder was greatly surprised and delighted when he answered to hear the voice of the man once called "God" on the line asking him if he'd like to maintain his original offer. He agreed to follow through and that's what led, 14 years later, to him now requesting that San Francisco Art Exchange represent it for resale.

Highlights of the guitar's pedigree:

* Rock and Roll Hall of Fame: Clapton played "Sunshine of Your Love" on the guitar during the induction of Cream into the Rock Hall of Fame in 1993. See the performance below:


* Royal Albert Hall 24 Nights: This is the same guitar Eric utilized throughout the famed Royal Albert Hall 24 Nights concert performances during 1990-91.

* George Harrison: Clapton used this guitar when he and his band backed George Harrison on their tour of Japan in December 1991 and continued as his main stage instrument during the 1992 European and US Tours.

* Bob Dylan: Clapton used this guitar when he played a version of Bob Dylan's "Don't Think Twice, It's Alright" to a standing ovation during the four-hour Bob Dylan 30th Anniversary Concert at Madison Square Garden, October 16, 1992.

* Smoking Guitar: This is reported to be the last known "smoking" guitar, as the guitarist gave up smoking in 1993. It has the characteristic cigarette burns on the headstock.

* Eric Clapton Signature Stratocaster, the guitar has been referred to as the first officially sanctioned Eric Clapton Signature Stratocaster.

The guitar is being immediately publicized and offered for sale worldwide by San Francisco Art Exchange. Full details can be requested by emailing info@sfae.com, or by calling the gallery at 415-441-8840. The guitar is physically located at the gallery and can be previewed by those who wish to bid. The guitar will be sold to whomever first provides an offer deemed acceptable. This is not an auction per se, but an opportunity for someone to make an offer which is impossible to turn down. The minimum acceptable offer is currently placed at $325,000, although it is anticipated that the guitar will sell for a considerably higher amount. Some estimates have placed it in the $500k to $600k range. All inquiries are invited.

SFAE has sold original artwork of iconic album covers by the Beatles, Pink Floyd, the Rolling Stones and Bob Dylan, among many others. The gallery has also concluded landmark sales of rare photographs of Marilyn Monroe, Martin Luther King, Jr., Johnny Cash and Muhammad Ali, just to name a few. In addition, SFAE has represented treasured music and movie-related artifacts from private and celebrity archives such as the Playboy Collection and the Brown Derby Collection, among others.

At its downtown San Francisco gallery, SFAE has hosted live events by everyone from music superstars Brian Wilson and Graham Nash to civil rights legend Clarence Jones and Michigan governor Jennifer Granholm. The gallery's most recent project was the sale of a rare portfolio of photographs of President John F. Kennedy celebrating the centennial of his birth in cooperation with the Kennedy Foundation, with a percentage of the proceeds benefitting the foundation.

For more information, visit http://www.sfae.com.

Monsters Of Rock Cruise 2018 Final Public Sale Underway

As music fans begin to plan their 2018 vacations, Monsters Of Rock Cruise, the world’s premier hard rock/heavy metal experience at sea, the final public sale has already set sail. 

Limited cabins are available at MonstersOfRockCruise.com, with prices beginning at $1,299 per person, double occupancy. Government fees, taxes, and gratuities are additional and mandatory for all passengers, regardless of age.

Departing out of Miami, FL, the five-day/five-night full ship charter cruise heads out February 11-16 aboard Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas (a new ship for MOR) and visits two new ports: Falmouth, Jamaica, and the private isle of Labadee.

As in past years, the 2018 cruise will also feature two optional pre-cruise parties in Miami (complimentary to cruisers) on the evening of Friday, February 9th and Saturday, February 10th (details TBA).

The confirmed lineup for the 2018 Monsters Of Rock Cruise features over 35 artists, including: Tesla, Queensrÿche, Thunder, Lita Ford, Winger, British Lion featuring Steve Harris of Iron Maiden, LA Guns, KIX, Y&T, Lynch Mob, Great White, Beasto Blanco, Doro, Pretty Maids, Vixen, Firehouse, Loudness, Michael Sweet (of Stryper), The Quireboys, Tyketto, Dangerous Toys, Junkyard, Keel, Raven, Madam X, Rhino Bucket, John Corabi, Autograph, Lillian Axe, Rough Cutt, Mitch Malloy, The Iron Maidens, Kickin’ Valentina, Jared James Nichols, Thee Rock ‘N Roll Residency and Atomic Punks.

New lineup additions include Joel Hoekstra (guitarist for Whitesnake and Trans Siberian Orchestra), Faster Pussycat, and Paradise Kitty, plus a special appearance by Rick Allen of Def Leppard. Beyond his amazing career with Def Leppard, Allen is also an accomplished artist and will be showcasing his extraordinary talent in a special art gallery designed especially for cruise. Finally, fans can look forward to a surprise performance by the Def Leppard drummer during the cruise!

In addition to the band performances, the cruise will feature over-the-top, customized activities, including: Monster Artist/Fan Photo Experiences, Gong Show Karaoke, Star Wars Theme Night, My RockNRoll Valentine Ball, “So You Think You Can Shred?” and Cooking with Rock Stars hosted by Lisa Tirone of Chef it up!.

The cruise will also feature the first Monsters of Rock shipboard Surfing Competition, dubbed “MOR North Shore”. The event will be part of the evening’s themed event, “Hawaii in the Caribbean,” where fans celebrate a night of Aloha festivities and music.

Eddie Trunk and comedian Don Jamieson (VH1’s “That Metal Show”), San Francisco bay area radio host Nikki Blakk, along with Luc Carl of SiriusXM’s “Hair Nation,” are the official cruise hosts and will moderate Q&A’s and many other specially designed events crafted especially for this voyage.  Former “That Metal Show” alumni and comedian Jim Florentine will join his VH1 mates for a special reunion aboard the cruise with fan events to be announced.

Navigator of the Seas is unlike any ship experienced before on the Monsters Of Rock Cruise. The Voyager Class ship features the Royal Promenade, spanning the length of Deck 5, hosting restaurants, coffee bars, shopping and connecting cruisers to all performance venues. Other activities aboard the ship include: boogie boarding or surfing the waves at the FlowRider Surf Simulator, challenging yourself on the rock-climbing wall, soaking in one of the many hot tubs and pools, or pampering yourself in the world-class Vitality at Sea Spa.

The exclusive island of Labadee is the ultimate private destination for cruisers, offering adventure, exploration and relaxation amongst its many bars and pristine waters. Vacationers can amp up the adrenaline on the Dragon’s Tail Coaster, a thrilling 30-mile-per-hour ride with incredible views of the island. For more action, adventurous passengers may choose to strap on a helmet and harness, and soar 500-feet down on the Dragon’s Breath Flight Line, the world’s longest zip line over water. In addition, there are plenty of other exciting options to choose from, including wave jet rides, parasailing, snorkel safaris, kayak tours, and much more.

Situated on Jamaica’s North coast, between Montego Bay and Ocho Rios, Falmouth has something for all travelers. Cruisers won’t want to miss Dunn’s River Falls, one of the most incredible natural wonders in the world and a shore excursion unlike any other. This series of lush, tropical waterfalls cascade over terraced natural stairs as you take the picturesque hike all the way to the Caribbean Sea. Enjoy the journey, taking breaks to swim in the small lagoons and grottos as you ascend the vertical sections of the falls. Cruisers can wrap up the day with a hike and dip into the Caribbean Sea or enjoy a myriad of activities, such as windsurfing, kayaking, horseback riding, river raft rides or sightseeing.

Click here for official cruise merchandise and for more info, visit MonstersOfRockCruise.com and follow @monstersofrockcruise on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.


Friday, October 20, 2017

40 Years Ago Today: Lynyrd Skynyrd's Plane Crashes In Mississippi

On October 20, 1977, three days after Lynyrd Skynyrd released its its fifth album, Street Survivors, lead singer Ronnie Van Zant, guitarist Steve Gaines, vocalist Cassie Gaines, their assistant tour manager and two pilots died and dozens of others were hurt when their twin-engine plane went down in a wooded area in Gillsburg, Mississippi.

The Jacksonville-based band that named itself as a mocking tribute to Robert E. Lee High School physical education teacher Leonard Skinnerd, who hassled guitarist Gary Rossington about his long hair, is widely credited as the first band to bring Southern rock music to an international audience.

Skynyrd was on the most ambitious headlining tour of their career, traveling between concert dates in Greenville, South Carolina, and a date at LSU in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, when their Convair CV-300 ran out of fuel, clipped some trees and went down in a remote forest.

According to reports, drummer Artimus Pyle and two crew members crawled from the wreckage and hiked through swampy woods until they finally flagged down a local farmer, who sent for help.

Band members Rossington, Allen Collins, Leon Wilkeson and Billy Powell were hospitalized with serious injuries.

Skynyrd disbanded after the accident, leaving the survivors to try to make their own way with varying degrees of success and failure.

Remaining members of the band reunited in 1987 for a tour. Rossington, Billy Powell, Leon Wilkeson, Artimus Pyle and guitarist Ed King, who had left the band two years before the crash, were joined by Ronnie Van Zant's younger brother, Johnny, as their new lead singer. The band stayed together and has produced nine more albums.

In March 2006, members of Lynyrd Skynyrd were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, Ohio.

Despite the deaths of Collins in 1990, Wilkeson in 2001, Powell in 2009, and the band's first drummer, Robert Burns Jr. in 2015, Skynyrd continues to tour extensively.

Wednesday, October 18, 2017

John Fogerty Celebrates 20th Anniversary Of Grammy Award-Winning Album 'Blue Moon Swamp'

After announcing a new, exclusive recordings deal with BMG, legendary singer/songwriter and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame member John Fogerty is set to celebrate the 20th anniversary release of the Grammy Award-winning album Blue Moon Swamp on CD, 180g black vinyl, limited-edition 180g blue vinyl, and digital platforms on November 17.

Originally released May 20, 1997, Blue Moon Swamp won Best Rock Album at the 40th Grammy Awards in 1998, with the song "Blueboy" receiving a Grammy nomination for Best Male Rock Vocal Performance that same year. Blue Moon Swamp would go on to receive gold certification by the RIAA. The 20th anniversary release of Blue Moon Swamp now features a new album cover showcasing the famed concert backdrop from the album’s original supporting tour.

Additional reissues from Fogerty’s solo career include the chart-topping and multi-platinum Centerfield, the gold-certified albums Eye of the Zombie and Premonition, Déjà vu (All Over Again), as well as a new Best of collection featuring highlights and favorites curated from his extensive solo catalog. Release dates to be announced. Fogerty is currently in the studio working on material for the full-length album to be released next year and will launch is next critically acclaimed Las Vegas Residency, at the Wynn Hotel’s Encore Theater, with performances of John Fogerty: Fortunate Son In Concert taking place January 10-20.

With a career spanning more than 50 years, John Fogerty is hailed as one of the most influential musicians in rock history. As the writer, singer and producer of numerous classic hits including "Born on the Bayou," "Green River," "Proud Mary," and "Bad Moon Rising," Fogerty has been honored as one of the 100 Greatest Guitarists, 100 Greatest Songwriters, and 100 Greatest Singers by Rolling Stone. Earning induction to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Songwriters Hall of Fame, and Baseball Hall of Fame, he is also a New York Times best-selling author for his memoir, Fortunate Son: My Life, My Music.

Following two sold-out, critically-acclaimed Las Vegas residencies in 2016, Fogerty returned to the city for a series of live shows in March and May this year with his debut at the Wynn’s Encore Theatre performing John Fogerty: Fortunate Son In Concert, produced by Julie Fogerty and directed by Ken Ehrlich and Raj Kapoor in association with AEG Live. Recently, the Wynn announced a slate of 15 additional live performances September 20 – October 7 and January 10 – 20, 2018.

For more information please visit www.JohnFogerty.com

Vinyl fans can pre-order the Blue Moon Swamp Limited Edition on 180g blue vinyl at Barnes & Noble.

Tuesday, October 17, 2017

Renaissance Featuring Annie Haslam Sets Symphonic Journey Tour

Progressive rock band Renaissance, featuring original lead singer Annie Haslam, are embarking this month on their Symphonic Journey tour, backed by a 10-piece chamber orchestra.

Four dates on the tour, which runs October 26 through November 3, mark the first time in 40 years that Renaissance will perform live with an orchestra and will be filmed for an upcoming DVD release, fresh off the success of their 2015 Live at The Union Chapel DVD.

“It’s so exciting to be backed by an orchestra again,” says Haslam, who’s been fronting Renaissance, the pioneering prog rockers (think Genesis, King Crimson and Yes, but with a classical twist) since the beginning 48 years ago. Haslam’s legendary five-octave voice is the hallmark of the band’s sound, a unique combination of progressive rock with symphonic influences.

Haslam, who’s performed with orchestras including the New York Philharmonic and the Royal Philharmonic, says, “Although it’s not easy to pull off, we’ve curated our own group of 10 orchestral players for four special concerts – and I can’t wait to look over my shoulder and see strings, woodwinds, brass and percussion as we launch into our big numbers.” Fans can look forward to the band’s orchestral classics like "Mother Russia," "Carpet Of The Sun," and "A Song For All Seasons."

The Symphonic Journey tour opens with four special orchestral shows:

October 26 - Ridgefield Playhouse - Ridgefield, CT
October 27 - Keswick Theater - Glenside, PA
October 28 - Town Hall - New York City, NY
October 29 - The Egg - Albany, NY

One of these concerts will be filmed and recorded for a new live DVD.

Renaissance will also play dates without the chamber orchestra at Boston’s City Winery (November 1); Annapolis MD’s Rams Head On Stage (November 2) and Oakmont PA’s The Oaks Theater (November 3).

In recent years, Renaissance has been active, touring extensively through North America, Canada, Japan, South Korea, England, Holland, Belgium, Israel, Portugal, Argentina and Brazil. With Haslam as lead vocalist, the band is comprised of her longtime musical associate Rave Tesar on piano, Tom Brislin on keyboards, Mark Lambert on guitars, Frank Pagano on drums and percussion, and Leo Traversa on bass.

For more information, go to http://www.renaissancetouring.com.

Monday, October 16, 2017

Cheap Trick to Headline Rock Your Speech Concert For Autism Society Of America

The Autism Society of America is pleased to announce its partnership with Cheap Trick bassist Tom Petersson’s Rock Your Speech in producing the Rock Your Speech Concert on December 2, 2017, at the Orpheum Theatre in downtown Los Angeles.

Headlined by Rock Hall of Fame members Cheap Trick with a full set of their power pop classics, the event will feature many of the band's fellow rock artists and colleagues. Joining the lineup are alt-rockers The Dandy Warhols, super group The Empty Hearts (Wally Palmar of The Romantics, Elliot Easton of The Cars, Andy Babiuk of The Chesterfield Kings and Clem Burke of Blondie), Johnette Napolitano (Concrete Blonde), Redd Kross, and Tom Petersson's Rock Your Speech Band, with confirmed celebrity appearances by the legendary Ed Asner, Oscar-winner Billy Bob Thornton, and more.

The evening highlights the innovative work of Rock Your Speech, which creates music and video content that helps kids on the autism spectrum develop speech and language skills. Social, communication, and language development difficulties are a primary challenge for individuals on the autism spectrum.

Funds raised at the concert will support Autism Society of America’s services to help individuals with autism maximize their quality of life. Autism Society of America earmarked an additional fund whereby a portion of the concert’s proceeds will be granted to Rock Your Speech in order to provide assistance in the development of an interactive video modeling program. Rock Your Speech co-founders Alison and Tom Petersson seek to make music therapy tools readily accessible to kids in need of speech and language therapies.

More than 3.5 million Americans have Autism Spectrum Disorder, with more than 1 in 68 births resulting in an autism diagnosis.

Join us as we help children find their voices through music.
#rocknrollwithapurpose

Tickets go on sale Friday, October 20, 10amPST/1pmEST via Ticketmaster.com

For more information visit:
www.rockyourspeechconcert.com


Saturday, October 14, 2017

TONIGHT! The Pretenders Make Debut Appearance On Austin City Limits

Austin City Limits (ACL) Season 43 rocks on with a hit-filled hour starring the great Pretenders in their first-ever appearance on the ACL stage. The band will present an 11-song hit parade in a brand-new installment premiering tonight (Saturday, October 14) at 9 PM ET/8 PM CT. 

The program airs weekly on PBS stations nationwide (check local listings for times) and full episodes are made available online for a limited time at pbs.org/austincitylimits immediately following the initial broadcast. Viewers can visit acltv.com for news regarding future tapings, episode schedules and select live stream updates. The show's official hashtag is #acltv.

The ACL show was filmed while The Pretenders were touring in support of their latest album, Alone, who was produced by Dan Auerbach of the Black Keys. The digital deluxe edition of Alone is available now on all DSPs, featuring 15 live bonus tracks recorded during the year of touring in support of the album (six of which come from the ACL show). The CD version of the deluxe edition with the bonus material will be released December 1.

The ACL performance finds Influential punk new-wave veterans the Pretenders in fighting form as they kick off an electrifying hour with a new classic, "Alone," a swagger-fueled gem that fits right into the band's canon, the title track from their first album in almost a decade. Iconic bandleader Chrissie Hynde informs the crowd, "You don't have to be polite, because we don't plan to be." The defiant front woman commands the stage, showcasing her still-radiant voice in a career-spanning performance featuring fan-favorites including "Back On The Chain Gang," "My City Was Gone," "Mystery Achievement," and "Middle of the Road."

The Pretenders' trademark tough and tender lyrics resonate as they did when the band arrived on the London scene in 1978. Hynde fondly introduces original member Martin Chambers as "the world's greatest rock drummer," as he plays the stirring intro of "Message Of Love." The band caps the powerhouse set with their signature hit "Brass In Pocket," as Hynde pulls a spellbound fan onstage to join her on the timeless tune.

"One thing that hasn't changed in almost 40 years," says ACL executive producer Terry Lickona, "Chrissie Hynde is still a badass! There's no doubt about who's in charge, and musically her voice still rings as clear and strong as ever. Whether you're an old fan or a newbie, this is a show for the ages."

Friday, October 13, 2017

Bruce Springsteen Broadway Residency Opens

Thursday, October 12 marked the opening night of Springsteen on Broadway,  a two-hour musical memoir, where Bruce Springsteen combined excerpts from his best-selling 2016 autobiography Born to Run with 15 songs from his back catalog — tunes which many devout ticket holders knew by heart and felt compelled to sing and clap along. However, the Boss briefly paused "Dancing in the Dark" to tell the audience with a laugh, "I'll handle this myself." 

The audience applauded loudly after a section paying tribute on the late E Street Band member Clarence Clemons, as well as a brief reflection on the political scene and the recent resurgence of torch-bearing racial hatred ("I believe that what we're seeing now is just a bad chapter in the ongoing battle for the soul of the nation," he said). His curtain call was met with the “Bruce!” chants reminiscent of his arena shows, as well as a lengthy standing ovation (though there was no encore number, despite widespread hope for one).

The production sees Springsteen playing guitar, piano and harmonica, and singing duets with his wife, Patti Scialfa. It first grew out of an acoustic concert at the White House in the final weeks of the Obama administration, and virtually sold out its four-month run at the Walter Kerr Theatre almost instantly, grossing a massive $2,332,108 in its first week of previews. Given that the show is playing only five performances per week, in a theater with a seating capacity of 939, its hefty average ticket price of $497 means that on a seat-by-seat basis, Springsteen on Broadway is even outselling Hamilton — Lin-Manuel Miranda’s blockbuster is running in a 1,321-seat house, with an average ticket last week of $272.

The show's opening night brought out such luminaries as Tom Hanks, Steven Spielberg, Edward Norton, Tina Fey, Jon Stewart, Jimmy Iovine, Nathan Lane, Andrew Lloyd Webber and Steven Van Zandt. The evening was capped with an intimate party at New York City’s Polo Bar.

Springsteen on Broadway runs through February 3. Theater pundits are now busy speculating if and how the production will figure in this season’s Tony Awards next June. An early report emerged in The New York Post that the Tony Nominating Committee saw the show in previews and was sufficiently impressed to start buzz circulating about a possible special award.

Thursday, October 12, 2017

Eagles' 'Hotel California' 40th Anniversary Deluxe Edition Out In November

The Eagles' Hotel California was a critical and commercial phenomenon when it was released in December 1976. The album topped the Billboard charts for eight weeks in the U.S., won two Grammy Awards, sold more than 32 million copies around the world, and featured two Billboard #1 hit singles. 40 years later, it still ranks as one of the best-selling albums of all time. 

This fall, the milestone album will add to its legendary lore with Hotel California: 40th Anniversary Deluxe Edition, a new double CD and Blu-ray Audio that includes remastered sound, 10 previously unreleased live recordings, as well as hi-res stereo and 5.1 mixes.

Presented in an 11 x 11 hardbound book, the set also features rare and unseen photos from the era, a replica tour book, and an 11 x 22 poster. The collection will be available on November 24. A double CD Expanded Edition and  single CD will also be available, along with digital download and streaming versions.

Hotel California: 40th Anniversary Deluxe Edition opens with a remastered version of the original album, featuring two Billboard #1 singles - "New Kid In Town" and the title track - plus the smash hit "Life In the Fast Lane." The album was nominated for five Grammy Awards, and won for "Record of the Year" and "Best Arrangement For Voices."

The set also marks the debut of 10 live tracks that were recorded during the band's three-night stand at the Los Angeles Forum in October 1976. The concert recordings - which were recorded about a month before the album came out - feature one of the first ever live performances of "Hotel California" and "New Kid In Town" along with other Eagles classics including  "Already Gone," "Take It To the Limit," and "Witchy Woman."

The Blu-ray Audio disc that accompanies Hotel California: 40th Anniversary Deluxe Edition features the 5.1 Surround Sound mix originally released on DVD-A in 2001 along with a hi-resolution, 192 KHz/24-Bit stereo mix.

The Eagles made their triumphant return to the stage this summer at the Classic East/West festivals, earning raves from critics and fans alike. More live dates are planned for this fall, with the band being joined on stage once again by country superstar Vince Gill and Deacon Frey, son of Eagles founder, Glenn Frey.

Wednesday, October 11, 2017

Los Angeles City Council Honors Punk Legends X On Their 40th Anniversary

Today (October 11), City Councilmember Mitch O’Farrell will shine the Council spotlight on X, the most critically lauded Los Angeles-based punk band, during a special presentation to commemorate their 40th anniversary.

The event will take place on at 10 AM at Los Angeles City Hall, 200 N Spring St, room 340, Los Angeles, 90012.  The Council meeting is open to the public and X’s fans are encouraged to attend.

During the presentation, O’Farrell will present official City certificates to each band member, as well as proclaim “X Day in the City of Los Angeles.“

Although each member hails from a different part of the country, the band itself has roots right here in Los Angeles. The band began in 1977, when bassist John Doe and guitarist Billy Zoom met through matching classified ads, placed on the same day, in a local publication. Exene Cervenka first met Doe at a poetry workshop in Venice, and the two fell in love and became bandmates. D.J. Bonebrake then joined the group, and they began playing at the Masque, Hollywood's seminal punk club.

According to Rolling Stone magazine, “X emerged from the L.A. punk scene as the most critically lauded American band of the early '80s.”

X's music was labeled as punk, and was known for a more sophisticated sound than the hardcore tone that would later define the genre.

In celebration of the band’s 40th anniversary, the Grammy Museum in downtown Los Angeles will debut X: 40 Years of Punk in Los Angeles on Friday, Oct. 13. The exhibit will be on display in the Museum’s Special Exhibits Gallery on the second floor through spring 2018.

Tuesday, October 10, 2017

Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers Rule Billboard Artist 100

Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers re-enter the Billboard Artist 100 chart (dated Oct. 21) at No. 1 to become the top musical act in the U.S. The late rock icon and his longtime band rule the chart for the second time, following his death Oct. 2.

The Artist 100, which launched in July 2014, measures artist activity across key metrics of music consumption, blending album and track sales, radio airplay, streaming and social media fan interaction to provide a weekly multi-dimensional ranking of artist popularity.

Petty returns to the chart at the summit with a monstrous 10,413 percent surge in overall activity. He and the band previously topped the tally dated Aug. 16, 2014 (five weeks after the chart launched). They had last appeared on the chart on Sept. 6, 2014.

Petty is, sadly, the third act to lead the chart posthumously, following Prince on the May 7 and 14, 2016-dated charts after his death that April 21, and David Bowie on the Jan. 30, 2016-dated chart after his death on Jan. 10. Additionally this year, Linkin Park led the Aug. 12-dated list after frontman Chester Bennington's death on July 20.

Album sales account for the majority of Petty's Artist 100 points (54 percent), followed by digital song sales (32 percent), and streaming (11 percent). Petty boasts five albums on the Billboard 200, led by his and the Heartbreakers' Greatest Hits, which re-enters at a new No. 2 peak with 84,000 equivalent album units (up 2,231 percent).

Monday, October 9, 2017

King Crimson Issuing Live Album & 27-Disc Box Set

King Crimson's Official Bootleg: Live in Chicago, June 28th, 2017, a two-CD set taken from the band's most recent US tour, will be released on this Friday, October 13. Presented as a King Crimson Collectors' Club special edition, this double live release is packaged in a media-book style hard cover with a 24-page booklet featuring photographs by Tony Levin, introductory notes by Robert Fripp, and photos/production notes by KC producer/manager David Singleton. 

“If we are looking for a KC live (show)," Guitarist Robert Fripp said. "Chicago was exceptional.”

The album showcases several iconic Crimson pieces performed live by this lineup for the first time – some being played live for the first time ever, including “Islands,” “The Lizard Suite,” “The Errors,” “Fallen Angel” and “Cirkus.”

King Crimson's current roster includes Fripp, Mel Collins (sax, flute), Gavin Harrison (drums), Jakko Jakszyk (guitar, vocals), Tony Levin (bass, stick, vocals), Pat Mastelotto (drums), Bill Rieflin (keyboards) and Jeremy Stacey (drums, keyboards).

Another new Crimson release goes back to the 70s and includes 21 CDs, four Blu-ray Discs, two DVDs. The King Crimson - Sailors' Tales (1970 – 1972) box set will be released on November 3, 2017. With much of the material from In The Wake Of Poseidon, Lizard, which is now being performed by the current band, it is only in recent years that the wider world has begun to realize what fans have always known: these recordings are as vital as any other segment of the King Crimson catalog.

Recorded between 1969's In The Court Of The Crimson and 1973's Larks' Tongues In Aspic, this  set documents a crucial period in Crimson's history, brimming with innovation, experimentation, and boundary-pushing energy.

With a wealth of previously unheard studio recordings from band rehearsals to full alternate mixes and a vast array of live material  much of it on CD and Blu-Ray for the first time and including four recently found, previously unreleased concerts -- this set presents the complete King Crimson recorded history of the period, including:

•  The complete 1970-72 King Crimson boxed set: 21 CDs, four Blu-ray Discs, and two DVDs – all audio
•  Three CDs feature Steven Wilson and Robert Fripp stereo mixes of In The Wake Of Poseidon (1970), Lizard (1970) and Islands (1971), plus additional tracks
•  Six CDs feature the Islands lineups early concerts from Germany (new to CD) and the UK (1971).
•  Nine CDs feature live recordings (several new to CD and/or previously unreleased in any format) from the 1972 US tour, including a new stereo mix of “Summit Studios” and an expanded “Earthbound”
•  Three CDs feature auditions for the Islands band & two further, as yet, unidentified concerts from 1972 (all previously unreleased)
• Three Blu-ray Discs contain the main studio albums in 5.1 Surround Sound and recent stereo editions mixed by Steven Wilson & Robert Fripp, plus 30th anniversary masters of the original stereo albums mixes (all in 24/96 hi-res), extensive additional material with each disc also featuring a complete alternate album, and further selection of additional, related studio/live material in hi-res.
•  Lizard Blu-ray Disc also contains the audition material from CDs 19 and 20
•  Islands Blu-ray Disc also contains the following concerts in stereo Zoom Club (4 shows), Marquee Club, Plymouth, Glasgow, Detroit all from 1971
•  Earthbound Tour Blu-ray Disc features an expanded version of the original album, Summit Studios gig in stereo and quadraphonic (newly mixed), the “Schizoid Men” sequence from the Ladies of the Road album, two newly discovered concerts in hi-res stereo and every existing soundboard concert recording from the 1972 US tour: Wilmington, NYC (two shows), Chicago (two tracks only), Detroit, Jacksonville, Orlando, Pittsburgh, Milwaukee, Peoria, Indianapolis and Denver (two shows)
• Two DVDs feature the expanded "Earthbound,” “Summit Studios,” “Schizoid Men,” “New York 1972” and recently discovered live concerts.
• 12” box with booklet, memorabilia, a downloadable concert, new sleeve notes by Sid Smith, Jakko Jakszyk and David Singleton

King Crimson's Official Bootleg: Live in Chicago, June 28th, 2017 and King Crimson - Sailors' Tales (1970 – 1972) can be pre-ordered via the shops at www.schizoidshop.com, as well as available through traditional retail outlets. The US based Schizoid Shop has recently added a range of new shirts and other band-related merchandise, and offers weekly specials including offers to win free tour T-shirts.

King Crimson's Fall 2017 US tour dates:

19 Oct Bass Concert Hall, Austin, TX
21 Oct Music Hall, Dallas, TX 
23 Oct Center Stage, Atlanta, GA
24 Oct Center Stage, Atlanta, GA
26 Oct Duke Energy Centre for the Performing Arts, Raleigh, NC
28 Oct Lisner Auditorium, Washington D.C.
29 Oct Lisner Auditorium, Washington D.C.
31 Oct New Jersey Performing Arts Centre, Newark, NJ
02 Nov Merriam Theatre, Philadelphia, PA
03 Nov Merriam Theatre, Philadelphia. PA
06 Nov Orpheum Theatre, Boston, MA
08 Nov The Egg, Albany, NY
09 Nov The Egg, Albany, NY
11 Nov Miller Symphony Hall, Allentown, PA
13 Nov Paramount Theatre, Long Island, NY
15 Nov Capitol Theatre, Port Chester, NY
17 Nov Beacon Theatre, New York, NY
18 Nov Beacon Theatre, New York, NY
20 Nov Palace Theater, Greensburg, PA
22 Nov Michigan Theatre, Ann Arbor, MI
24 Nov Hard Rock Rocksino, Cleveland, OH
26 Nov Riverside Theatre, Milwaukee, WI

For more ticket information, go to https://www.dgmlive.com/tours?liveshow=on

DGM also has announced sale of VIP Royal Packages, limited to just 60 per show. Details can be viewed at the label's interactive and recently redeveloped website at http://www.dgmlive.com.

Saturday, October 7, 2017

Full Sail Ahead For Cruise To The Edge 2018

With only 4 months to go before sailing, Cruise To The Edge, progressive rock’s largest festival at sea, announced that its final public sale began this week. Limited cabins are still available at CruiseToTheEdge.com, with prices beginning at $1,309 per person, double occupancy. Government fees, taxes, and gratuities are additional and mandatory for all passengers, regardless of age.

Hosted by prog-rock icons, Yes, the event features some of the world’s greatest prog-rock musical artists. This  magical 5-night cruise sails from Tampa, Florida from February 3-8, aboard Royal Caribbean’s award-winning Brilliance Of The Seas, visiting two new ports: Belize City, Belize and Costa Maya, Mexico. As in past years, the 2018 CTTE pre-cruise party (complimentary to cruisers) will be hosted at Ferg’s Live in Tampa, on the evening of Friday, February 2nd.

Conveniently located adjacent to the Port of Tampa, Ferg’s Live is an exciting indoor/outdoor concert and dining venue offering unique craft beers and excellent cuisine. Just announced, Baraka will be performing at the CTTE pre-cruise party (2/2), with two additional acts to be revealed in the weeks to come.


On board, iconic prog-rock artists and cruise headliners Yes, Marillion, Steve Hackett (of Genesis), Sons of Apollo featuring Mike Portnoy and Derek Sherinian, Carl Palmer’s ELP Legacy (honoring Keith Emerson and Greg Lake and the music of ELP), and Marin Barre (of Jethro Tull) will perform multiple sets aboard the cruise. In addition, celebrated Canadian prog band SAGA, will make their final live appearance aboard the cruise, capping their illustrious 40-year career.

Other esteemed performers confirmed include: Anathema, Gong, Haken, Casey McPherson, Focus, Glass Hammer, Adrian Belew Power Trio, Lifesigns, Knifeworld, Sound of Contact, Stick Men with special guest violinist David Cross, Moon Safari, IO Earth, Bad Dreams, Thank You Scientist, Dave Kerzner, Baraka, Eric Gillette, and Brook Hansen. In addition, legendary YES album design artist, Roger Dean, will be aboard, displaying his most famous works in a private gallery where fans can purchase selected original pieces and limited-edition prints. The cruise will be hosted by UK journalist and preeminent Yes expert, Jon Kirkman.

Beyond the sun, fun and exquisite dining, there will be artist/cruiser photo experiences, Q&A sessions, special theme nights and other events designed to optimize the artist/fan experience. This year will once again feature the unprecedented CTTE Late Night Live, where fans can sign up to showcase their own musical talents in four different performance scenarios: Late Night Live Pro Jam, guests are invited to play with a headline act; Artist's Choice, featuring fans and Prog legends performing together; The Main Event, where guests can shine with fellow Late Night Live musicians and Overtime Jam, where guests can choose a song to be featured in a late-night jam.

Royal Caribbean’s Brilliance Of The Seas features acres of glass enclosing a nine-story central atrium, elevators facing the sea, and floor-to-ceiling windows throughout. Passengers can enjoy the tranquil Solarium pool, recharge at VitalitySM Spa, or reach new heights climbing the signature rock-climbing wall. When the sun goes down, the night heats up with epic prog performances on stages throughout the vessel. Combined with some of the best food and service afloat, Cruise to the Edge is truly the greatest prog-rock show on earth and is a can’t-miss event for prog enthusiasts throughout the world.

For more info, visit CruiseToTheEdge.com and follow @cruisetotheedge on Facebook and Twitter.

Friday, October 6, 2017

John Coltrane Documentary Drops In November

On November 17, filmmaker John Scheinfeld's feature documentary film, Chasing Trane: The John Coltrane Documentary, will be released by UMe on DVD and Blu-ray with exclusive bonus features. On the same date, Verve/UMe will release the film's vital audio companion — Chasing Trane: The John Coltrane Documentary Original Soundtrack — on CD, 180-gram 2-LP vinyl, and digital audio. 

Set against the social, political and cultural landscape of the time, Chasing Trane brings saxophone great John Coltrane to life, as a man and an artist. The film is the definitive look at the boundary-shattering musician and composer whose influence continues to resonate around the world.

Written and directed by John Scheinfeld [The U.S. vs. John Lennon; Who Is Harry Nilsson (And Why Is Everybody Talkin' About Him?)], Chasing Trane: The John Coltrane Documentary is a rich and compelling portrait of a remarkable artist that reveals the critical events, passions, experiences and challenges that shaped the life of John Coltrane and his revolutionary sounds.


The film was produced by Spencer Proffer, John Beug, Scott Pascucci, and Dave Harding, with the support of the Coltrane family and the record labels that collectively manage the Coltrane catalog. Chasing Trane's DVD and Blu-ray packages include a booklet with an essay by Scheinfeld and rare photos seen in the film. The soundtrack's booklet also includes rare photos from the film and an essay by journalist and film participant Ashley Kahn.

Chasing Trane: The John Coltrane Documentary features never-before-seen Coltrane family home movies, footage of Coltrane and his band in the studio (discovered in a California garage during production of the film), along with hundreds of never-before-seen photographs and rare television appearances from around the world.

The film reveals the critical events, passions, experience, and challenges that shaped Coltrane's life and his revolutionary sounds. It is a story of demons and darkness, of persistence and redemption. Above all, it is the incredible spiritual journey of a man who found himself and, in the process, created an extraordinary, iconic body of work that transcends all barriers of geography, race, religion and age.

Coltrane's story is told by the musicians who worked with him (Sonny Rollins, McCoy Tyner, Benny Golson, Jimmy Heath, Reggie Workman), musicians inspired by his fearless artistry and creative vision (Common, The Doors' John Densmore, Wynton Marsalis, Carlos Santana, Wayne Shorter, Kamasi Washington), Coltrane's children and biographers, and well-known admirers including President Bill Clinton and Dr. Cornel West.

Although Coltrane did not participate in any television interviews and he recorded only a handful of radio interviews during his lifetime, he is an active and vibrant presence throughout the film, in his remarkable performance clips and in thoughts he expressed during print interviews. In Chasing Trane, the words of John Coltrane are spoken by Denzel Washington.

"In many of his roles Denzel radiates an exceptional quiet strength," says Scheinfeld. "Coltrane, many of his friends told me, embodied a similar strength. That's why Denzel was my first choice to speak his words and I'm thrilled he made the time to participate in our film."

After playing to critical and audience acclaim at its fall 2016 world premiere at the Telluride Film Festival and at the Toronto International Film Festival, IDFA and DOC NYC, Chasing Trane's spring 2017 theatrical release was presented by Abramorama.

Chasing Trane: The John Coltrane Documentary will make its television broadcast premiere on Independent Lens on Monday, November 6, 10:00-11:30 PM ET (check local listings) on PBS. During the month prior to the broadcast, Indie Lens Pop-Up, presented by ITVS, Independent Lens, and local partners across the country, will host free preview screenings and discussion events for the film in dozens of U.S. cities.

For more information, visit www.pbs.org/independentlens/films/chasing-trane.

On Friday, November 17, the same day the Chasing Trane home video and companion soundtrack album will be released, the GRAMMY Museum at L.A. LIVE in Los Angeles will open a sweeping new John Coltrane exhibit, titled Chasing Trane: Coltrane's Musical Journey Transcended. The long-term exhibit, featuring rare performance footage and audio recordings from Coltrane's Japanese tour in 1966, handwritten manuscripts, instruments, and more, will be a primary installation at the museum through September 2018.

To learn more, go to http://www.coltranefilm.com/

Thursday, October 5, 2017

Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame 2018 Nominees Announced

The nominees for induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2018 have been announced.

This year's group includes 19 nominees from all different musical genres.

They are:

  • Bon Jovi
  • Kate Bush
  • The Cars
  • Depeche Mode
  • Dire Straits
  • Eurythmics
  • J. Geils Band
  • Judas Priest
  • LL Cool J
  • MC5
  • The Meters
  • Moody Blues
  • Radiohead
  • Rage Against the Machine
  • Rufus featuring Chaka Khan
  • Nina Simone
  • Sister Rosetta Tharpe
  • Link Wray
  • The Zombies

To be eligible for nomination, an individual artist or band must have released its first commercial recording at least 25 years prior to the year of induction which means the 2018 nominees had to release their first official recording no later than 1992.

Let the debate begin...

Wednesday, October 4, 2017

Eagles To Perform First Show At Grand Ole Opry House

SiriusXM announced today that the Eagles will perform a special invitation-only concert for SiriusXM listeners at the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville on Sunday, October 29. The concert marks the first time the legendary GRAMMY Award-winning band -- Don Henley, Joe Walsh and Timothy B. Schmit, with Deacon Frey and Grand Ole Opry member Vince Gill -- will perform at the iconic venue. 

"The Eagles performing at the Grand Ole Opry House will be an unforgettable evening and SiriusXM is the perfect partner for this event," said Eagles manager Irving Azoff.

"One of the greatest, biggest-selling bands in history playing the storied Grand Ole Opry House for the first time ever will make for a historic event and a great evening for SiriusXM subscribers," said Scott Greenstein, President and Chief Content Officer, SiriusXM. "We're excited to present this very special broadcast and the Eagles own channel for our listeners nationwide."

The concert will air on SiriusXM's Eagles Channel, the limited-run channel presented by the band over Thanksgiving Weekend. SiriusXM's Eagles Channel will feature music from the band's extensive career as well as their solo records and influences. The channel will launch mid-November and will air through the Holidays. SiriusXM's Eagles Channel will be available via satellite and through the SiriusXM app on smartphones and other connected devices, as well as online at siriusxm.com.

SiriusXM will present a live, three-song sneak peek of the private SiriusXM concert at the Grand Ole Opry House on October 29 on SiriusXM's The Bridge (ch. 32), Classic Vinyl (ch. 26) and The Spectrum (ch. 28).

SiriusXM subscribers since September 12, 2017 can enter for the chance to win a trip to Nashville including airfare, hotel stay and a pair of tickets to the show. See Official Rules for complete details at siriusxm.com/Eagles.

SiriusXM recently announced that its 200+ channels are now also available for streaming to SiriusXM subscribers nationwide with Amazon Alexa. Go to www.SiriusXM.com/AmazonAlexa to learn more.

For more information on Eagles, visit www.eagles.com

For more information on SiriusXM, please visit www.siriusxm.com.

Tuesday, October 3, 2017

Tom Petty, 66, Dies From Cardiac Arrest

Tom Petty, whose sharp guitar riffs, raw, nasally vocals, and insightful lyrics graced such hits as “Refugee,” “Free Fallin’” and “American Girl,” died Monday night following a heart attack. He was 66.

Petty suffered cardiac arrest and was found unconscious at his home in Malibu early Monday morning and was taken to UCLA Medical Center. He could not be revived, his long-time manager Tony Dimitriades said in a statement.

“We are devastated to announce the untimely death of our father, husband, brother, leader and friend Tom Petty,” Dimitriades said on behalf of the family.

Petty died at 8:40 p.m. local time (0340 GMT Tuesday) surrounded by family, bandmates and friends.

Bob Dylan called his death “shocking, crushing news” in a statement to Rolling Stone magazine.

Petty, best known for his roots-infused rock music, carved a career as a solo artist as well as with his band The Heartbreakers and as part of supergroup The Traveling Wilburys.

Petty and The Heartbreakers embarked on a 40th anniversary tour of the United States this year and last played three dates in late September at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles. The band was scheduled to perform two dates in New York in November.

Petty formed the Heartbreakers in the mid 1970s, but it wasn’t until the band’s third album Damn the Torpedoes in 1979 that their music really took off, with hits such as “Refugee” and “Don’t Do Me Like That.”

He and the band were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2002, when they were described by organizers as “the quintessential American individualists,” capturing the voice of the American everyman.

“Music, as far as I have seen in the world so far, is the only real magic that I know,” Petty once said during an interview with CNN. “There is something really honest and clean and pure and it touches you in your heart.”

Petty also co-founded the 1980s supergroup The Traveling Wilburys with Dylan, Roy Orbison, George Harrison and Jeff Lynne, penning hits such as “End of the Line” and “She’s My Baby.”

Dylan said in his statement that Petty was “a great performer, full of the light, a friend, and I’ll never forget him.”

Ex-Beatle Ringo Starr wrote on Twitter: “God bless Tom Petty peace and love to his family I‘m sure going to miss you Tom.”

Petty was born on Oct. 20, 1950 in Florida. He had a rough childhood and did not do well in school, according to the New York Times. He caught the rock‘n‘roll bug after he was introduced by his uncle to Elvis Presley, who was shooting the picture “Follow That Dream” on location in Florida in 1960.

He got his first guitar in 1962 and was influenced by the Beatles, growing his hair long and switching to electric guitar. In the mid-1960s, he joined his first band, the Sundowners.

Petty dropped out of high school when he was 17 and joined Mudcrutch, a band with which he moved to Los Angeles in 1970.

The band broke up and Petty drifted from band to band before joining back up with his bandmates from Mudcrutch in 1975. The group became Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers in 1976.

Amid his successes, Petty also suffered dark periods during a career spanning five decades.

A 2015 biography of the singer, “Petty: The Biography,” revealed for the first time the rocker’s heroin addiction in the 1990s.

Author Warren Zanes said in an interview with The Washington Post that Petty had succumbed to the drug because he “had had encounters with people who did heroin, and he hit a point in his life when he did not know what to do with the pain he was feeling”.

Petty also suffered from depression, channeling his pain into 1999’s Echo, during which he was also dealing with a divorce. In 2002, he married Dana York and told Reuters that he had been in therapy for six years to deal with depression.

“It’s a funny disease because it takes you a long time to really come to terms with the fact that you’re sick - medically sick, you’re not just suddenly going out of your mind,” he said at the time.

Monday, October 2, 2017

Keith Emerson's 'Emerson Plays Emerson' CD Reissued

The Keith Emerson Estate has reissued Emerson Plays Emerson, an album of Keith Emerson keyboard pieces that has long been out of print and a collector's item.

The reissue, available on the Emersongs label via Cherry Red. uses a fresh transfer of the master tapes by Abbey Road, a 2017 remaster, and artwork from the original art files. The booklet contains the liner notes in English, Italian and German.

The members of Emerson's family oversaw the preparation of Emerson Plays Emerson, and are  preparing to approve a music transcriptions book of the album for release in early 2018. The family is focused on celebrating and enhancing the famed keyboardist's musical legacy and supporting projects to further the appreciation of his life's work.

“Since the passing of my father, we have been inundated with requests for a reissue of the album Emerson Plays Emerson," the musician's son Aaron says. "This album was a labor of love for Dad, so we decided to go with the original artwork to stay as true to the original as possible as we understand how happy Dad was with it. I know he would be happy with this reissue, so on behalf of myself, Jo and my boys, of Damon and his family, of my mother Elinor, and of my father's fiancé Mari, and with thanks to Daniel Earnshaw, Martin Darvill and Stewart Young for all their hard work, we hope you enjoy it!”

The album can be ordered via the below links:
Amazon CD: http://geni.us/EplaysE
iTunes: http://geni.us/KE002dig

Keith Emerson's official website: http://www.keithemerson.com/
Keith Emerson's official Facebook page: https://en-gb.facebook.com/officialkeithemerson/

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