Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame’s new exhibit pays tribute to bluesman D.C. Minner
The late D.C. Minner (Photo by Jim Beckel, The Oklahoman Archives)
From Friday’s Weekend Look section of The Oklahoman.
New exhibit “From Black Towns to Blues Festivals” pays tribute to bluesman D.C. Minner
MUSKOGEE — The Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame is paying tribute to the late legendary bluesman D.C. Minner and his musical contributions in Rentiesville, OK, and the rest of the world.
The new exhibit “From Black Town to Blues Festivals” will open Saturday at the music hall, 401 S Third. The world premiere of the exhibit will kick off with a grand opening party from 7 to 11 p.m. Saturday.
On Saturday, there will be a $15 cover that includes a barbecue dinner and entertainment provided by acts such as Miss Blues, Tony Mathews, Selby Minner, Harry Williams and Friends, Rudy Scott, Frank Swain, Buck Young and many more. There will be a second stage with acts such as Lem Sheppard and Harold Aldridge. The lineup includes seven Oklahoma Blues Hall of Fame inductees.
Minner (1935-2008) was born in Rentiesville and toured professionally out of Oklahoma City as a bassist with music greats like Freddie King, OV Wright, Chuck Berry and Bo Diddley. He switched to guitar and returned with wife/bassist Selby Minner to reopen his grandmother Lura’s Juke Joint as a blues club in 1988. The couple started the Dusk ‘Til Dawn Blues Festival in 1991, bringing numerous luminaries to Rentiesville and founded the Oklahoma Blues Hall of Fame in 2003, honoring blues players statewide.
For more information, go to www.oklahomamusichalloffame.com or call (918) 687-0800.
-BAM
What to do in Oklahoma on Jan. 28, 2011: Party with Wanda Jackson
Wanda Jackson
Green Corn Revival
Today’s featured event:
Hear Oklahoma’s own Queen of Rockabilly Wanda Jackson play a free album release show at 8 tonight at the Academy of Contemporary Music at University of Central Oklahoma’s Performance Lab, 323 E Sheridan.
The show, which will celebrate the Rock and Roll Hall of Famer’s new record “The Party Ain’t Over,” also will feature Weatherford band Green Corn Revival. Doors will open at 7 p.m. Information: 974-4700 or www.facebook.com/ACM.UCO.
For more events, go to www.wimgo.com.
-BAM
Miranda Lambert and Ronnie Dunn to announce ACM Awards nominees Tuesday
Miranda Lambert
Ronnie Dunn
Country music stars Miranda Lambert and Ronnie Dunn, who both have Oklahoma ties, will announce next week the nominees for the 46th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards.
The nominees will be announced Tuesday from the Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum in Nashville, Tenn., during a live press conference beginning at 7:30 a.m.
Lambert, who won her second ACM album of the year last year, lives in Tishomingo. Dunn, who won many ACMs as half of now-defunct duo Brooks & Dunn, is a former Tulsa resident.
The ACM Awards will be broadcast live from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas at 7 p.m. Sunday, April 3 on the CBS Television Network.
Reba McEntire, who hails from Chockie, and Blake Shelton, Lambert’s fiance and fellow Tishomingo resident, will co-host the show.
For more information, go to www.acmcountry.com, and check back with BAM’s Blog for my continuing coverage of the nominations and the show.
-BAM
Country music up-and-comer Brandon Pruitt partners with Crown Royal
Up-and-coming progressive country singer-songwriter Brandon Pruitt has partnered with Crown Royal.
Hot on the heels of his private performance and Crown Royal whiskey tasting Wednesday in Nashville, the Oklahoma native will continue to make appearances at venues across the southeast as a part of the partnership.
Pruitt, who hails from Lexington has built a loyal following across the United States with his energetic shows and raspy hymn-like voice that some describe as “smothered by whiskey.”
In 2002, Pruitt loaded his truck and headed east to Music City. A self-taught poet and guitarist, he naturally placed his focus on putting pen to paper.
While playing with his band in 2005, Brandon impressed Sony ATV Creative Director Mike Whelan. Whelan and Pruitt soon developed a working relationship and inked an exclusive artist/writer deal in November of the same year.
Upon his arrival at Sony, Brandon immediately began production and recording of his debut album “Red Dirt, Blue Country”, which would be released in the summer of 2006. The album received high praise among the red dirt community with singles such as “Country Boys” and “Oklahoma Way”.
While at Sony, Brandon consistently co-wrote with country music’s top songwriters, of which include; Buddy Brock ( “Watermelon Crawl”, You’ve Got To Stand For Something” ), Casey Beathard ( “Boys of Fall”, “The Breath You Take ), Michael Heeney ( “Ten Rounds With Jose Quervo”,” I Love Your Love The Most” ), Lee Thomas Miller ( “In Color”, “You’re Gonna Miss This” ), Ashley Gorley ( “Then”, “Start A Band” ), Chris Tompkins ( “Before He Cheats” ) , Clint Danials ( “Brokenheartsville” ), and Lynn Hutton ( “One In The Middle” ).
In 2008, Pruitt’s sophomore studio record “Limited Edition” was released.
“This record was a great opportunity to offer my fanbase something that was new and that I felt showcased my growth as a songwriter and artist,” he said.
Since the release of “Limited Edition,” Pruitt has spent the majority of his time on the road, consistently playing several venues including Firelake Grand Casino in Shawnee and the Brewhouse in Norman. Brandon has shared the bill with Jamey Johnson, Reckless Kelly, Low Cash Cowboys, Asleep At The Wheel, Cory Morrow, No Justice, BlackHawk, Brantley Gilbert, Cowboy Troy and more.
“The road has definitely blessed me with perspective. Every venue and artist I’ve had the privilege to work with has been amazing and has given me the opportunity to share what I do with my fans. The response I’ve received over the past few years is unparalleled to anything I’ve experienced prior,” he said.
He recently released his self-titled EP, which features six new tunes. The opening track of the new EP, “Swimmin,’” is currently spinning in the Oklahoma radio market.
“I was recently playing a show in Norman when a fan approached me. It was then I found out ‘Swimmin’’ had been picked up on OKC radio! I really believe in this tune and also the EP as a whole. This group of songs really represents me and where I’m at as an artist today. I’m having a blast on my journey and can’t wait to see what’s next!” he said.
Pruitt has a couple of home state gigs coming up: He will open for Charlie Robison Feb. 25 at the Wormy Dog Saloon and play acoustic March 9 at Firelake Grand Casino in Shawnee.
In today’s announcement about his venture with Crown Royal, Pruitt had this to say:
“Having the chance to represent one of the biggest names in whiskey is a once in a lifetime opportunity,” Pruitt said. “I’m looking forward to representing Crown Royal and its commitment to ensuring country music fans understand the importance of drinking responsibly and assigning a designated driver.”
Pruitt has gained notice for his ability to fuse honky-tonk country, blues and rock draws a large crowd, especially for his appearances twice a year in Bristol, Tenn., surrounding NASCAR Sprint Cup Series events. His next Bristol performances, partnered with Crown Royal, are scheduled for Friday, March 18 and Saturday, March 19.
Pruitt will be featured on regional Crown Royal point of sale materials, as well as support Crown Royal responsible drinking initiatives through various appearances throughout the Southeast.
“We are proud to partner with one of country music’s hottest up-and-coming artists,” said Yvonne Briese, marketing director for Crown Royal, in the announcement “His accomplishments as a singer and songwriter make him the perfect fit for Crown Royal and we are delighted to bring adult country music fans in the southeast his unique sound.”
Pruitt is part of an overarching effort by Crown Royal to develop and implement programs designed to create awareness of responsible drinking among adult country music fans. Crown Royal most recently announced that it would also work with country music star Rodney Atkins to unveil the winner of its annual “Your Name Here” program, which awards naming rights to an adult military member, through a song prior to the upcoming NASCAR race at Daytona International Speedway.
- BAM
Peter Jackson undergoes ulcer surgery; “The Hobbit” delayed again
Peter Jackson (Associated Press file photo)
“Lord of the Rings” director/producer/writer Sir Peter Jackson has undergone surgery for a perforated ulcer in his native New Zealand, according to the Associated Press.
Publicist Melissa Booth tells the AP that Jackson was admitted to Wellington Hospital after suffering from severe stomach pains. She told the AP Thursday that Jackson was resting comfortably and is expected to make a full recovery.
Jackson’s illness will further delay the start of filming for “The Hobbit,” which was long stalled because of fiscal turmoil at MGM.
The Oscar winner is helming a two-movie adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien’s acclaimed children’s novel “The Hobbit,” the prequel to the British novelist’s “Lord of the Rings” trilogy.
-BAM
Jimmy Buffett released from Australian hospital after falling from stage
Jimmy Buffett (Associated Press file photo)
Head Parrothead Jimmy Buffett left an Australian hospital Thursday, after he fell off a stage at the end of a Sydney concert Wednesday and was knocked unconscious, according to the Associated Press.
Buffett departed St. Vincent’s Hospital in inner Sydney – he took a back entrance to avoid reporters – after doctors gave him the all-clear Thursday morning, reports the AP.
Medical staff said the “Margaritaville” singer had suffered a head injury, but he was in good spirits and lucky to have recovered so quickly from the fall at Hordern Pavilion on Wednesday night.
“He really took a very nasty tumble,” the hospital’s emergency department director Gordian Fulde, who attended the concert, told Seven Network television.
“He just didn’t see the drop in front of the stage,” Fulde said.
“I heard the ‘crack’ and I thought: ‘This guy has broken his neck,’” he added.
Fulde, who is also a surgeon, rushed to help the 64-year-old entertainer.
“He had a head injury and he lost consciousness … (but) scans show that he’s OK,” Fulde told Seven Network.
The singer had performed on Sunday and Monday to sold-out crowds at Sydney’s Opera House, and the Wednesday concert was added in response to demand.
A message posted on Buffett’s website said he was doing well and updated to confirm his release from the hospital.
“As you probably already know, Jimmy had an accident while performing in Sydney last night and was taken to the hospital,” the statement said.
“The doctors say he is doing well … More info as we get it, and thank you for all of your well-wishes!”
It was the first time Buffett and his famed Coral Reefer Band had performed in Australia in 20 years, according to the AP report.
-BAM
Bret Michaels out of hospital after heart surgery
Bret Michaels (Associated Press file photo)
Rocker Bret Michaels was released from St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center in Phoenix Wednesday following a successful heart procedure, according to the Associated Press.
The doctor who treated him said the procedure to fix a hole in his heart was quite successful. Dr. Mansour Assar told the AP that the Poison frontman and reality TV star should be able to return to normal activities in a few weeks.
In April, doctors discovered the hole in Michael’s heart while treating him for a brain hemorrhage. Surgeons Monday inserted a catheter into a vein in Michaels’ groin with a closure device attached.
Doctors told the AP the device will stay in Michaels’ heart permanently and stop abnormal blood flow between two chambers of his heart.
-BAM
RIP Charlie Louvin
Charlie Louvin in 2009 (Associated Press file photo)
Country Music Hall of Famer Charlie Louvin, half of the influential duo the Louvin Brothers, has died from complications of pancreatic cancer. He was 83.
According to the Associated Press, Louvin died Wednesday at his Tennessee home. He was diagnosed with cancer last year and underwent surgery, but kept on performing and even released an album.
As the Louvin Brothers, Charlie and Ira Louvin – who were born with the surname Loudermilk – their signature harmonies inspired fellow country singers as well as pop performers.
Their hits included “I Don’t Believe You’ve Met My Baby,” “When I Stop Dreaming,” ”Hoping That You’re Hoping,” and “You’re Running Wild.”
With Ira Louvin slipping deeper into alcoholism, the duo broke up in 1963. Ira Louvin was killed two years later when his car was struck by one driven by a drunken driver, which ended the possibility of the brothers ever reuniting.
Oklahoma country music superstar Garth Brooks, through a spokeswoman, paid tribute to Charlie Louvin in the Los Angeles Times:
“Charlie Louvin was (one) of the pioneers that not only led the way in traditional music and entertainment, but was influential in lending a hand to the next generation coming up with the dream of continuing the tradition of the (Grand Ole) Opry and what it represents. Truly, a good man.”
Our thoughts are with Louvin’s family, friends and fans.
-BAM
Liverpool Legends Beatles tribute band performing OKC show tonight
Liverpool Legends Beatles tribute band
MIDWEST CITY – Beatles tribute band Liverpool Legends will perform at 7:30 tonight at Rose State Performing Arts Theatre, Interstate 40 and Hudiburg Drive.
The tribute quartet bears an uncanny resemblance to the Fab Four and performs note-perfect renditions of
Louise Harrison (Photo by Doug Hoke, The Oklahoman)
the beloved songs that launched the ’60s British Invasion, brought artistic credibility to rock ‘n’ roll and left an indelible mark on Western culture.
Louise Harrison, the older sister of the late Beatles guitarist/singer/songwriter George Harrison, hand-picked each of the four members of Liverpool Legends, starting with Marty Scott, who plays George. George Harrison died of lung cancer in 2001.
In a recent interview with The Oklahoman Entertainment Editor Gene Triplett, Louise Harrison talked about her baby brother and how an illness helped him earn his reputation as “the quiet Beatle” just before the band made its famed U.S. TV debut in 1964 on “The Ed Sullivan Show.”
“The only reason he got that name was because he had strep throat and 104-degree temperature to start off with,” Louise Harrison told Gene. “The doctor said to him, ‘Save your throat. Save your voice and don’t talk.’ So he didn’t say very much at the news conferences.”
To read more of what Louise Harrison had to say about her Beatle brother, click here to go to Gene’s great story. After the break, view NewsOK host Angi Bruss’ interview with Louise Harrison.
For tickets and information on tonight’s Liverpool Legends show, call 297-2264 or at go to www.myticketoffice.com.
What to do in Oklahoma on Jan. 27, 2011: See the “Portrait of a Generation” photos at OKC Museum of Art
Today’s featured event:
See portraits of dozens of children from across Oklahoma featured in M.J. Alexander’s new photography exhibit “Portrait of a Generation: Sons and Daughters of the Red Earth.” The artist’s reception for the exhibit is set for 5:30 to 7:30 tonight at the Oklahoma City Museum of Art, 415 Couch Drive.
The exhibit accompanies Alexander’s new limited edition art book “Portrait of a Generation — The Children of Oklahoma: Sons and Daughters of the Red Earth.” It will remain on view at the museum through the end of the month.
Tonight’s reception will honor the featured children, their families and Alexander and will take place in the museum’s Founder’s Gallery. (The opening reception was originally scheduled for last week but postponed due to wintry weather.)
Admission is free and the event is open to the public. The accompanying 288-page fine art book will be available for sale for $65, and $10 from each book sold will go to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Oklahoma County.
For the forward-looking follow-up to her 2007 book and exhibit “Salt of the Red Earth,” which featured Oklahoma centenarians, Alexander embarked on a quest to feature the youngsters who will determine Oklahoma’s future.
Along with her images of more then 250 Oklahomans — primarily children from newborns to college freshmen — the acclaimed Oklahoma City photographer gathered family genealogies, state history and personal stories from the youngsters.
Her mission took her more than 11,000 miles to 50 towns and cities, from Cimarron County to Beaver’s Bend and Mangum to Picher.
The project also took her to my hospital room at Integris Baptist Medical Center and my Del City front lawn. My daughter, Brenna Faire McDonnell, born June 25, 2010, is featured in the book. That’s my girl on the flier for tonight’s reception at the top of this post.
A few weeks before I started maternity leave last June, Alexander sent me an e-mail about her “Portrait of a Generation” plans. She asked if I would do a column about the project in the hopes of finding interesting children for the book. One of her goals was to feature a newborn, and once the column ran, she asked if I would be interested in letting her take photos of my new baby when she arrived.
My husband, Patrick, and I agreed, and when we went into the hospital for my C-section, the photographer waited with my parents and sons. When Patrick introduced our family to Brenna Faire McDonnell, Alexander snapped away, capturing precious moments that happened while I was still in the operating room.
With her eye on taking a portrait against the Oklahoma landscape, Alexander came to our home the day after we were released from the hospital to take more pictures. As my husband held our 100-hour-old daughter aloft in our yard against a stormy, uncertain sky, the artist got the shot that made the book. Along with the portrait, Brenna’s two-page spread includes a brief genealogical history — she is a sixth-generation Oklahoman on my side — and my writings about my hopes for my children’s futures.
My family and I are planning to attend Thursday’s event, and we’re looking forward to celebrating Alexander’s beautiful book and all the great Oklahoma kids featured in it.
For more information on “Portrait of a Generation,” go to www.sliceok.com/portrait.
For more events, go to www.wimgo.com.
-BAM
