For more community news and postings checkout the Live From Memphis COMMUNITY
and other Memphis resources.
3,440,139 Articles Served.
ART
Fuel for the Fire: Artist Lecture with Kiersten Williams
01-06-2009
Power House Memphis presents its third installment in our Fuel of the Fire lecture program. On January 9th, at 6 pm, Kiersten Williams will give a brief presentation on her background, processes, and current installation in the Fuel Room, Free Fall. A Q&A will follow. The Fuel for the Fire lecture program was created to give the public an opportunity to interact with the exhibiting artists on a more intimate level.
Kiersten N. Williams was born in Memphis in 1981. She attended Overton High School where she actively pursued art in its advanced program. She received a Business Management degree from University of Memphis in 2004. After a brief hiatus from practicing art while earning the business degree, Williams reclaimed her passion for creating and has been dedicated to art-making ever since.
Artist Statement Free Fall is a release of stored ideas; an expression of my experiences; and an exploration of my relationships with both people and circumstance. It is presented to the viewer as a tangled web of insight and inquiry, spun with randomness, and bonded together in general disarray- as my mind often functions. Free Fall is a glance into my personal creative protocol- a way to visually interpret the world around me.
The process for the creation of Free Fall is sort of an attempt to catch butterflies- snatching unexpected ponderings out of the meadow of my mind. Fragments of random thoughts and statements are conjured, caught, and then collected. This collection grows into an idea bank organized by chaos, which timely selects what ponderings require attention. Finally, they are revealed as adages and mantras, phrases and numbers, and symbolic and figurative imagery- all rendered in a graffiti-manner amongst clouds of melding bright colors.
The work then becomes a playful juxtaposition of colored thought to evoke feelings related to my experiences. Free Fall radiates with vibrancy that generates an energetic presence; and while it seems mischievous and childlike, it offers a much deeper meaning. Relevant commentary is expressed through constant wordplay that offers a satirical edge- reacting to the manufactured and often artificial world in which we live.
A most typical example is "Dreamy Creamy Bull," a slogan for my perception of how people often cater to the establishment as a trade-off to experiencing their own reality. I believe that most people never give up manipulation, bargaining, and the pursuit of perfectionism which ultimately lead to an unfulfilled life. One must fall from these things in order to be free- a Free Fall.
RELATED LINKS
----------------------------- Power House
MUSIC
An Evening with Bobby Rush
01-05-2009
Bobby Rush, performs a rare solo acoustic benefit concert for the Center for Southern Folklore.
After spectacular performances at the Center's 2007 and 2008 Memphis Music & Heritage Festival Mr. Rush said, "I want to support an organization that unites Memphis' culture, music, history and arts the way the Center for Southern Folklore and its Festival does. I hope all my fans join me in supporting the Center on Friday, January 9, 2009."
Though best known for his bawdy and bootylicious R&B stage shows, Bobby Rush's blues roots go back to his days as a young man growing up in Louisiana. The blues he learned stayed with him and in 2007 he released his album Bobby Rush Raw where he stripped his sound down to the basics, performing with only his guitar and harmonica. For his efforts, Mr. Rush took home the Blues Music Award for Best Male Soul Blues Artist as well as Best Acoustic Artist and Best Acoustic Album.
Please join us on January 9th in the Center’s Folklore Hall and hear some great stories and of course wonderful music performed by a master, Bobby Rush. The show begins at 8:00 PM. Doors will open at 7:30 PM.Admission is $75.00 per person and includes regional foods, beer and wine. The evening will include performances by Mr. Rush plus an on stage interview where audience members will have a chance to ask Mr. Rush about his musical career.
2009 has begun, and Muck Sticky is kicking off this new year's concert season at the New Daisy! Muck will be spreading his "happiness and cheer" in his own unique way, along with reggae rockstars Taco and da Mofos and Arkansas' Finding Jimmy Hoffa. Special guest Lil Wyte and Al Kapone are set to appear as well. This will be a party to start the new year off right! Don't miss this show!!!
What happens when Hard Rock Cafe, Gibson Guitar Factory, Barnhart Crane & Rigging, Naked Lion Brewing Co., Elvis Presley Enterprises, & Red Bull get together for an event?
1 60 ton Crane, 1 10 foot Les Paul guitar, and the stroke of midnight... get ready Memphis for the Guitar Drop on Beale St. with a live performance on the Hard Rock stage from Surrender the Fall, "The Franchise DJ" Mic Tee, & the official comeback concert of Whiskey Penny!
Party starts at 10 PM! $20 Admission Ages 21 and up
Looking for a unique way to bring in 2009?! Come party with the Rozelle Artists Guild, where they will have an interactive paint-by-number mural, hookah lounge, jello shots, and bonfires! The night wouldn't be complete without some of Memphis' best music performances.
Set list: 9:00PM : Giant Bear 9:45PM : Travis Cantrell 10:30PM : Agents of Woe 11:15PM : Pezz 12:00AM : DJ Hype Taylor 12:45AM : Infidelles 1:30AM : Dirty Streets 2:15AM : Original Cyndi with MC Griddles throughout the night!
Located at the P&H Cafe, Doors open at 8 PM! $5 entry / $10 VIP gets you a midnight champagne toast!
JT Donaldson and Fred Everything have been consistent stars in modern electronic music for several years; Large Music is thrilled to announce the release of their latest endeavor entitled "Read My Mind". Featuring the vocal talents of Memphis based singer Mr. White, this electrifying release pushes the boundaries of modern dance music by offering a unique sound that is both retro-influenced and yet forward focused.
The Original Mix is a jazzed out deep groove that is very reminiscent of Ron Trent and his Prescription Recordings outings of the early 1990's. The Acid Dub is pure 808 Chicago madness, full of dark tones and subsonic bass. These two also collaborate on the San Fran Dub, ripe with the trademark underground house style that has marked both of these producers with legendary careers. This is a fantastic package of mixes tailored for dance floors worldwide.
This collection of some 50 images of the late, great Ray Charles features the singer, songwriter, and entertainer as captured by the distinguished photographer Howard Morehead. One of the few successful African American photojournalists to work regularly in the entertainment field, one of Morehead's favorite subjects was his friend Ray Charles. The photos in this exhibit span 40 years, depicting Charles at the peak of his career and in the twilight of his life. The show's title comes from an essay written by Morehead and discovered among his photographs that were donated after his death in 2003 to the California African American Museum (CAAM) in Los Angeles, where this exhibit originated.
"I SHOT RAY CHARLES" is on loan from CAAM, which recently hosted the Stax Museum’s exhibit, "WATTSTAX: I Am Somebody." The photographs have been carefully selected from the more than 2,500 photos that were donated to CAAM by Fran Cooper and the Morehead estate. While many of the photos capture Charles alone in his musical empire and personal space, others show him in the company of other icons, including the famed "It's the Real Thing" Coca Cola commercial with soul mates Aretha Franklin and Billy Preston.
For more than 45 years, Howard Morehead, the first West Coast staff photographer for Ebony and Jet magazines, used his camera to create dramatic images, establish faces, distill time, and capture icons in action.
This exhibit closes on Wednesday, December 31! This is your last chance to experience this one of a kind chronicle of Ray's life and work, as seen through the lens of noted photographer Howard Morehead.
RELATED LINKS
----------------------------- STAX Event
MUSIC
Oh Snow You Didn't!!!
12-23-2008
Snowglobe is set to play Christmas night at the Hi-Tone with the Pirates and Invisible Giants from Knoxville. Get rid of your relatives or have them join in the festivities. Just make sure you don't miss out on this holiday tradition!!!
Who: Snowglobe, the Pirates, and the Invisible Giants What: Christmas Show Where: Hi-Tone Cafe When: December 25th, 10 PM Why: Because spending Christmas Day at home is overrated!!!
Merry Christmas Everybody!!!
RELATED LINKS
----------------------------- Snowglobe
MUSIC
Amy LaVere and Cory Branan at the Hi-Tone!!!!
12-23-2008
Amy LaVere Leading her trio from behind a double bass, which she plays with all the percussive force that that most unwieldy of instruments demands, the slender, dark-haired singer from Memphis puts on a show that is enchanting in so many ways. LaVere has been promoting her second album, Anchors & Anvils, for more than a year, and has recently been seen in all the right places, including a support slot with Seasick Steve at the Albert Hall and an appearance on Later... with Jools Holland. The hard work has paid off. ~ London Times
Cory Branan In 2000, the Memphis chapter of NARAS awarded Branan with the Phillips Award for “Newcomer of the Year.” Two years later, Branan made his label debut with Memphis’ Madjack Records with the release of The Hell You Say. In 2003 he appeared on both The Late Show with David Letterman and Last Call With Carson Daly. In March 2006, after almost four years, Branan released his second album 12 Songs again on Madjack Records. Blender Magazine, commenting on the time it took for Branan to record his sophomore effort, said, “12 Songs justifies the sabatical.”
Come watch both of these Memphis artists perform at the Hi-Tone Cafe on December 28th. Show is 18 and up, with a $10 cover!
Friday, December 26: Black Max, Bryan Hartley, Davey Ray
BLACK MAX is a collaborative project, featuring the work of Memphis, TN-based singer/songwriter and all around vaudevillian Keenan Sloan, paired with a cast of some of the most talented players in the Memphis area. Together they produce an array of darkly humorous, theatrical, vintage music that hums with the sound of old footlights. The music drives with the power of a four piece set and evokes a gamut of styles from sinister/whimsical cabaret and lounge, to soaring rock n’ roll.
http://www.myspace.com/blackmaxband
BRYAN HARTLEY is the singer and songwriter for the Memphis-based rock and roll band, Halfacre Gunroom. He's been singing and writing songs since his early teenage years. Brian has finally escaped Nash Vegas and Music Row, and is once again a Memphis regular. CONFIDENTIAL is his first solo album.
http://www.myspace.com/bryanhartleymusic
DAVEY RAY can always be found in coffee shops and clubs around Memphis. Formerly with Rae-Ray and lately with the New Davey Ray Trio. You can see him on any given day composing new material at the Otherlands Cafe in Midtown Memphis. Davy teaches guitar at Studio 708 and First Baptist Church Of Collierville.
http://www.myspace.com/davystingray
$5 Cover. Doors at 7. Show at 8 pm. All ages.
Saturday, December 27: 2 Mule Plow, Deep Hollow -- Holiday Hoedown ($8)
Merry Christmas! It's a Holiday Hillbilly Hoedown at Otherlands this Saturday featuring Bluegrass greats 2 MULE PLOW and outstanding newcomers DEEP HOLLOW. Come early to get a seat. Richard Ford kicks things off at 8 sharp.
2 MULE PLOW includes founding members of The Riverbluff Clan, Tennessee Boltsmokers, and The Settlers, some of the most respected bluegrass chops in all of West Tennessee. Members of 2 Mule Plow have been nominated for over a dozen Premier Player Awards by the Memphis chapter of NARAS (The Grammys).And they have won quite a few of them.
http://www.myspace.com/2muleplow
DEEP HOLLOW Progressive and contemporary bluegrass music with the respect of the past can best describe "Deep Hollow". Creating a buzz in the Memphis area since forming the group in 2007, Deep Hollow has been performing at local music venues and private parties across the Mid-south.
http://www.myspace.com/deephollow63
$8 Cover. Doors 7 pm. Show at 8 pm. All ages. Smoke free. Beer Coffee and Food. Large patio and deck. 641 S Cooper. 901-278-4994.
RELATED LINKS
----------------------------- Otherland's
Christmas in Memphis
12-22-2008
Get out and have some fun during this Christmas break! These are just a few of the excellent holiday themed events finishing out the year. Grab your friends, family, and loved ones and experience this holiday season with everything Memphis has to offer!
A Christmas Carol at Theatre Memphis December 22 and 23
Traditional Holiday Favorite, Scrooge, the Crachits with Tiny Tim, all the ghosts from the past, present, and future Christmas Carols.
Trans-Siberian Orchestra at the FedEx Forum December 23
One of the biggest arena attractions in rock music, the Trans-Siberian Orchestra, will once again take to the road this holiday season and perform two shows in Memphis on Tuesday, December 23 at 4 p.m. and 8 p.m.
If Scrooge Was A Brother at the Hattiloo Theatre Dcember 22 - January 4
It's Christmas Eve and Eb Scroo is seeking to snuff out the season's cheer by demanding that all debts owed him be satisfied before nightfall. Facing imprisonment or a Christmas without presents and a feast, the residents are desperate. In this urban spin of Dicken's Christmas Carol the ghosts and characters are icons of Black culture and the songs stem from the traditions of gospel, R&B, and even reggae.
Seussical at the Playhouse on the Square December 22 - January 11
Marvel at the whimsical imagination of Dr. Seuss as colorful tales (and tails) are magically woven together in this fantastical musical celebration. Brimming with sassy sophistication, The Cat in the Hat hosts an eye-popping parade of zany characters including Horton the Elephant, Gertrude McFuzz, Mayzie LaBird, and all the Whos of Whoville. Concocting a Seussian gumbo of musical styles, these beloved creatures will inspire children to not only become "Thinkers of strange and wonderful Thinks!" but will also remind young and old alike that "a person?s a person... no matter how small!"
A Tuna Christmas at the Playhouse on the Square December 22 - January 11
Tacky tree trimmings, gaudy garlands, and redneck ribbons festoon the town of Tuna, Texas as this much-loved audience favorite returns by popular demand. Home for the holidays takes on a whole different meaning in the Lone Star State's third-smallest town when the colorful denizens of Tuna compete in the annual lawn display contest. But beware the Christmas Phantom who is sabotaging the elaborate decorations. Two actors portray the entire population, and multiple costume quick-changes help to put the riotous fun in holiday dysfunction.
It's happening again, Memphis! Hard Rock Cafe is kicking off the official season of giving by helping to feed children worldwide. On Saturday, December 20, 2008, Hard Rock Cafe Memphis will host Applause for the Cause II, emceed by Whiskey Penny’s Justin McKee and Surrender the Fall’s Jared Cole.
The event will feature live performances by Memphis’ top artists, including Al Kapone, Zach Myers of Shinedown, Who Framed Sam, Woodenmotuh, Dave Cowell of Chosen View, Cornerstone, Tha Bank, Mike Dees and Bethilea. Each act will also have the opportunity to perform a holiday song for the chance to win 20 hours of recording time, courtesy of Band House Studios. Proceeds from the event will benefit WHY, a nonprofit organization that strives to fight against hunger and poverty in America and around the world. Be there!
Time: 09:30 PM
Cost: $3 - with 100% of the proceeds benefiting World Hunger Year (WHY)
Age: 18 & Up!
RELATED LINKS
----------------------------- Hard Rock Cafe
MUSIC
This Week at Otherlands!
12-18-2008
Friday, December 19: Myla Smith, Jamie Randolph Holiday CD Release, with Charlie Shaw and Timmy Jones
Don't miss this CD release show starring Myla Smith, Jamie Randolph, Charlie Shaw and Timmy Jones!
Saturday, December 20: Jimmy Davis Christmas In The Round, with Jed Zimmerman, Blair Combest, Patrick Dodd and guests
Jimmy Davis is bringing us a wonderful Christmas present. A songwriter circle featuring Jimmy, Jed Zimmerman, Blair Combest, Patrick Dodd, and several special guest sit ins.
And for the first time in Otherlands history, we will be doing the whole show IN THE ROUND, 68 comeback style.
Don't be late! There is no support act. Jimmy and friends start around 8 and play as long as they want to.
$5 Cover. Doors at 7 pm. Show at 8 pm. All ages. Smoke free. Beer Coffee and Food. Large patio and deck. 641 S Cooper. 901-278-4994. www.myspace.com/otherlands
RELATED LINKS
----------------------------- Otherlands
FILM
Indie Memphis Films in Focus
12-18-2008
Opening Friday, December 19!!! Slumdog Millionaire Anita O'Day: The Life of a Jazz Singer at Malco's Ridgeway Four
Slumdog Millionaire
"Danny Boyle's Slumdog Millionaire hits the ground running. This is a breathless, exciting story, heartbreaking and exhilarating at the same time, about a Mumbai orphan who rises from rags to riches on the strength of his lively intelligence. The film's universal appeal will present the real India to millions of moviegoers for the first time." ~ Roger Ebert
The film is an eloquent and moving account of a boy who attempts to become a millionaire on a television game show, rediscovering the love of his life in the process. Boyle uses this extraordinary premise to paint a kaleidoscopic portrait of a society built around survival of the fittest, where betrayal is commonplace and greed and corruption lie just around every corner.
Boyle's film is a cinematic rollercoaster ride. Above all a romance, it is played out in a world where social, economic and political issues are never far away. The young cast is superb, but it is Boyle's dramatic smarts and feel for the heat, sweat and street life of Mumbai that transforms Slumdog Millionaire into a compelling and gripping cinematic experience. ~ Toronto Film Festival
Anita O'Day: The Life of a Jazz Singer
"One of the few white vocalists to play the Apollo, O'Day does fabulous things with her hands as well as her voice when she sings. Her talent and will to survive (in the late 60s she kicked a 16-year heroin addiction) are reasons enough to see this film." ~ Chicago Reader
The defining moments in Anita O'Day's long career occurred during the 1958 Newport Jazz Festival where she swung her way through "Sweet Georgia Brown," captured the hearts of millions in Bert Stern's Jazz on a Summer's Day, and found herself on the cover of Time magazine-undoubtedly assisted by a little black frock and a wide-brimmed, feathered straw hat. The circumstances surrounding these magical occasions comprise some of the many amusing stories she tells in Robbie Cavolina and Ian McCrudden's hugely enjoyable, deeply moving tribute to the jazz diva completed just weeks before her death in November 2006.
"Films in Focus" highlights independent and limited release films playing in Memphis. Both of these films open this Friday at Malco's Ridgeway Four. Check Malco's Website for show times. Hope to see you there!
Live From Memphis and Rocket Science Audio team up to bring you live recordings at RSA midtown-based studio. TONIGHT ONLY (Wednesday, December 17) Watch and Listen Live over the web to the Six String Jets!!!! The show starts at 8pm. Don't miss it!!
There is a ritual, familiar to everyone who has participated in the performing arts, called the dress rehearsal. Perhaps ritual is the wrong word, as it is an absolutely crucial step in preparing for a show, but there is certainly an element of ritual to it. If you press most performers, such as the fifteen or so actors and dancers gathered on a December night for the full dress run through of Pre-sent Pres-ent, hard enough, they will eventually admit that the process of preparing for a show is just as rewarding as actually getting up in front of people and earning your applause. Maybe even more so. There's a weird mixture of relaxation and tension in the air as Jay Rapp and Jerre Dye hustle around Theatreworks tying up a fraction of the uncounted loose ends that putting on a show of this magnitude—hell, of any magnitude—creates. It's not for real, everybody knows, but it's about to be.
"It is a new works festival, which is hard to come by in this day and age," says Dye. "They are very hard to get funded and supported, and it's hard for people to wrap their brain around new work. So it's a new works festival disguised as a holiday show." This is the seventh year since Dye had the idea for the show. "I dreamed it up while I was all by myself in New York, dreaming of working with all of my friends back here in Memphis," he says. He couldn't afford to come back for the extended development project that the hybrid of comedy, drama and dance he had mind would need, so he tried an experiment. "I ran around New York City collecting little bits of ephemera, made gifts for everyone, and sent them by US mail," he says. The contents of the presents were based on questionnaires he had asked the participants to fill out. "There are about four or five questions, all coming back to the holidays, or at least winter. I take the answers, I spend time with them, and make presents for all of the participants." This year, the presents that lend the show its name all came in little treasure chests. "Everyone gets what I call a dreambook, or idea book, with words, phrases, poems centered around things they mentioned in their questionnaire. Basically, I try to construct a gift that is a three-dimensional representation of their answers. And they have until…well, today…to sculpt or create something out of the gift."
But while the individual artists have a couple of months to get their acts together, Rapp and Dye only have about a week and a half with everyone in the same room. "We call it hell week," says Dye. "There's no way around it." Pre-sent Pres-ent is billed as a variety show, and there is definitely a Carol Burnett feel to the proceedings, mostly because of Sister Myotis Crenshaw, the churchy host played in drag by Steve Swift. "Steve created that character the first year we did it," says Rapp. Sister Myotis is a masterfully playful, satiric creation, utterly blind to her faults because, as a "Good Christian Woman," she has an automatic excuse for all of the horrible things that come out of her mouth. Her accent, which renders the name of dancer Loisa Koeppel as "Louisa Cripple", but which can inexplicably pronounce the name of Iranian President Mohmoud Ahmadinejad, serves as a equal parts shield and weapon as she rails against the evils of the Elf agenda.
Sister Myotis is the most beloved of the show's recurring gags. "Everything's new, but we will do variations on what we've done in the past," says Rapp. Perhaps because of the inquisitive nature of the process, the artist's individual pieces tend to be inward-looking, mining memory to find the significance of the season, but not sugar-coating the downside of family togetherness and enforced good cheer. The show's rotating cast is also a reminder that the holiday traditions are as different every year as they are the same. "We usually have repeat offenders," Dye says. "When you make a good soup, you've got to have something spicy, something sour, a little sweetness. But we always have to have someone new and fresh in the mix. Otherwise it starts to die on the vine." The mix was a hit from the beginning, when the seeds of a new Memphis tradition were born. "The very first year, I had audience members asking me, ‘Are you going to do this again next year?'" Dye recalls.
The dress rehearsal reaches its climax, and the house lights flick on unceremoniously. Instead of loitering on stage to receive their applause, the cast, clad in snuggly winter pajamas, breaks out of their places and strike up a dozen hurried conversations. Parts of the video didn't load correctly. "Was I supposed to have a scarf, too?" Dancers come to terms with having to speak on stage, while actors wonder if their dancing was as embarrassing as it felt. The first wisps of opening-night fear is in the air now. But the tradition of the dress rehearsal is as comforting as it is frightening. At least now, the problems faced are a known quantity and can be dealt with and obsessed over until Sister Myotis faces a room full of strangers for the first time. - Chris McCoy
Pre-sent Pres-ent runs through December 22 at Theatreworks.
"On the Edge Of Happiness," a five episode web series shot in Memphis is set to kick off in February 2009.
Featuring an all star Memphis Cast!! Billie Worley , Corie Ventura, Christian Walker, Tracee LaShae, Kim Justis, Jonathan Lewis, Anne Marie Hall, Drew Smith, Demetrius Butler, Helen Bowman, Jim Eikner, Andy Mathes, Bart Shannon, Gary Berglund
7:30pm Wednesday, December 17th at Power House Memphis Admission is free!
While PLAGUES & PLEASURES ON THE SALTON SEA covers the historical, economic, political, and environmental issues that face the sea, it more importantly offers up an offbeat portrait of the eccentric and individualistic people who populate its shores. It is an epic western tale of fantastic real estate ventures and failed boomtowns, inner-city gangs fleeing to white small town America, and the subjective notion of success and failure amidst the ruins of the past. Hair-raising and hilarious, part history lesson, part cautionary tale and part portrait of one of the strangest communities you've ever seen, this is the American Dream gone as stinky as a dead carp.
Refreshments will be available, including Beer, Wine, Sodas, and Popcorn. Your donations are appreciated.
RELATED LINKS
----------------------------- Power House
MUSIC - Jazz
The First Annual Jimmie Lunceford Legacy Awards Event
12-16-2008
Presenting The 2009 Jimmie Lunceford Legacy Awards Honorees 1.) Dr. Alan Goodrich 2.) Larry Lee 3.) Hank Crawford 4.) George Coleman 5.) Howard Grimes 6.) Rev. Ronnie Williams
Live Entertainment, Rare Jimmie Lunceford Orchestra Footage, and Panel Presentation! Great Tasting Food at Affordable Prices! Artwork From Tha Artivist Wil Be Available Purchase!
So All You Jazzy Hep Cats Come Join Us!!!
The Purpose Of The Jimmie Lunceford Jamboree Festival:
To Honor And Bring Awareness To The Forgotten And Impressive Legacy And Achievements Of Jimmie Lunceford, The First High School Band Orchestra Leader/Conductor In The History Of The Memphis City Schools. Lunceford, A Fisk University Graduate, Was Hired As A Teacher Of English, Spanish And Physical Education At Manassas High School Back In The 1920s. He Also Served As The School's Baseball And Football Coach. He Started The First Memphis City Schools' Band/Orchestra With Money Out Of His Own Pocket And Donations From The Community.
He Later Took His Band Of High School Students And Turned Them Into A Professional And Popular Local Memphis Band Known As The Chickasaw Syncopators…
In the early 1930s Lunceford took his band to the legendary Cotton Club in Harlem, NY to take over as the house band for Duke Ellington and Cab Calloway. The group eventually became known as The Jimmie Lunceford Orchestra. The Jimmie Lunceford Orchestra would regularly broadcast live from the Cotton Club gaining a huge national audience. Jimmie Lunceford would constantly beat the great swing bands of his era in numerous "battle of the bands" contests including those led by Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Benny Goodman and Chick Webb. The Lunceford Orchestra Was Known For Their Amazing Ensemble Play, Singing, Choreography And Overall Showmanship. They were known as The Harlem Express because of their huge African American following and was the top draw act at the world famous Apollo Theatre for 10 years. The Lunceford Orchestra was considered by many including Glenn Miller and Miles Davis to be one of if not the best swing band ever!!!
Unfortunately, Jimmie Lunceford (after dying under mysterious circumstances on July 12, 1947 in Seaside, Oregon) has been forgotten by many in the Memphis Community for 61 years and counting...
Jimmie Lunceford, the essence of a true teacher, never forgot about Memphis or Manassas High School and would constantly come back to talk to students at Manassas High School and hold free concerts despite being one of the most popular bandleaders in the country, Black or White.
The purpose of this event is to bring awareness about Jimmie Lunceford and to instill community pride in the achievements and accomplishments of a native Memphian who never forgot Memphis. Jimmie Lunceford's remains are interred at the famous Elmwood Cemetery along with his wonderful legacy. We at the Jimmie Lunceford Jamboree Festival look forward to changing that same old sad song and swinging a new brighter tune!!!
What: The First Annual Jimmie Lunceford Legacy Awards Event (Part Of The Jimmie Lunceford Jamboree Festival Series) When: December 20, 2008 Time: 12pm-3pm Where: Java, Juice & Jazz 1423 Elvis Presley Blvd 38106
La Scala Ballet: Mediterranea at the Brooks Museum of Art December 18, 2008 7PM $8 for members; $12 for non-members
Join us for the exclusive premiere of Mauro Bigonzetti's celebrated Mediterranea from the famed La Scala in Milan. A sense of travel is created through the musical cultures of the Mediterranian. From popular Turkish music to Mozart to archaic Grecian melodies, the dancers move to the music in a refined balance between lyricism and energy.
"A hit with the public, Mediterranea was acclaimed by critics for its power…" -Dance Magazine
RELATED LINKS
----------------------------- Brooks Museum
MUSIC - Electronic
Night Moves feat. Josh Dahlberg
12-12-2008
Night Moves is a event for those who love electronic music and the underground. Exclusively this month Josh Dahlberg from Detroit will be giving Memphis a taste of the Motor City. Special guests include Funke and Mind at Large vs. Mongoose. If you like parties that don't stop until the last person leaves come for a great time! Dig your own rave.
Josh Dahlberg is a promising new talent to emerge from the US; coming off of a year's worth of successful releases and cross-country bookings. Having studied electronic music through participant observation for the past decade, he is held in high regard as a DJ, producer, and proprietor of Blank Artists – a label that prides itself on its distinct nature that sets it apart from other electronic music labels. While Josh spent his formative years some 90 rural miles (145 km) from his adoptive home of Detroit, his move to the city provided new opportunities which culminated in his short tenure in the offices of Underground Resistance and Submerge Distribution. Since then he has helped release some of the best in electronically made music and continues to be at the forefront of music coming out of the region.
RELATED LINKS
----------------------------- Odessa Myspace
MUSIC
This Week at Otherlands!
12-11-2008
Friday, December 12: String Theory, Michelle Bush ($7)
STRING THEORY is a string quartet with rhythm section, that plays rock and soul music as well as modern classical pieces, featuring the leading players from the Memphis Symphony Orchestra. Experience music in a different dimension, featuring works by Philip Glass, Arvo Part, Beck, Radiohead, Final Fantasy, Carl Jenkins, Isaac Hayes and Curtis Mayfield.
String Theory blew the crowd away on their debut performance at Otherlands. They are not your average string quartet covering pop tunes on the side. These are the seasoned rock performers on the Memphis scene. Individually and collectively they have a long resume of studio credits, and have played in some of the best acts in Memphis including: Big Ass Truck, MouseRocket, Harlan T. Bobo, and the Rob Jungklas Trio.
This night of rock, soul and pop music is arranged by Jonathan Kirkscey (Rob Jungklas Trio) and performed by members of the Memphis Symphony Orchestra.
The ensemble lineup includes string players Jonathan Kirkscey, Jessie Munson, Jennifer Pucket, with rhythm section Scott Best and Robert Barnett. The entire show is made possible by a grant from the Jeniam Foundation.
MICHELLE BUSH studies classical guitar at the University of Memphis under Lily Afshar, and teaches guitar. She is also a singer/songwriter. The side project helps her hone her writing skills.
Michelle is rapidly gaining a following in Memphis clubs and coffeehouses
Michelle says, "I'm searching for inspiration, passion and life. I'm open minded when it comes to future plans as long as the instruments compliment the music." Check out her tunes at...
http://www.myspace.com/michellebushmusic
$7 Cover. Doors at 7 pm. Show at 8 pm. All ages.
Saturday, December 13: Groundspeak, Grace Askew, Catalina ($5)
GROUNDSPEAK is a breakout band in the Memphis area. Groundspeak fuses together styles of all categories. Having been around for a little more than a year they have already played with acts such as Colonel Bruce Hampton and the Codetalkers, Garaj Mahal, and several local favorites including The Grip and The Dempseys.
Having four composers, a wealth of original music has been written as diverse as their influences. With members coming from both jazz and rock backgrounds, the approach is exploration into the unknown. Groundspeak pulls from styles such as jazz, world, funk, electronic, singer-songwriters, country, avant garde, and reggae.
http://www.myspace.com/groundspeak
GRACE ASKEW is a 21 year old solo artist from Memphis, TN. Grace’s sound has developed into a unqiue blend of alt country and Memphis soul. Studying under a jazz/bossa nova guitar teacher throuhgout high school and then going on to live in New Orleans for over a year after graduation, jazz/blues came to greatly influence Grace’s sound as well. But the music soon called her back to Memphis, which is when Grace began to step back to the soulful/country roots of her childhood and opening her ears to the artists of Stax, Hi-Records, and Sun Studios.
http://www.myspace.com/gaskew
CATALINA are a guitar driven funk/rock fusion trio from right here in Memphis.
Catalina are former members of The Lift, Nick Black, guitar and vocals, Frank Bradley, drums and backing vocals, and Sam Pankey (45-15 Rule) on bass guitar.
http://www.myspace.com/bandcatalina
$5 Cover. Doors 7. Show at 8 pm. All ages. Smoke free. Beer Coffee and Food. Large patio and deck. 641 S Cooper. 901-278-4994.
RELATED LINKS
----------------------------- Otherlands
MUSIC
In the Know Seminars - How to Put Out Your Own CD
12-11-2008
How To Put Out Your Own CD - With the success of major recording artists on the decline, it makes sense to do-it-yourself. We will discuss how to put out your own CD and reap $8 a CD, as opposed to being signed to a label that makes the lion's share of the money. We will discuss how to start and fund your label, how to market and promote your music, and how to attract a reputable distributor to your project.
FREE attendance to the first 50 people to register for THIS Saturday's webinar!
Moderator--Wendy Day (who has been putting out records independently successfully since 1996, just ask Do Or Die, Twista, Cash Money, No Limit, Eminem, David Banner, TMI Boyz, MoBillionaireZ, BoodRaw, Young Buck, etc.
Panelists: (more to be added) Wes Phillips, Select-O-Hits Distribution Bigga Rankin, DJ and CEO of RNR Records Papa Duck, Indie Artist and absolute grinder Nancy Byron, Publicist
Don't miss tonight's eclectic program of shorts by renown film artists from across the country and around the world; curated by Greg Pond of Sewanee, who most recently presented this program in Brooklyn, New York.
"No Place" is a compilation of international video, documentary, and animation about utopia and other places that may or may not exist. This screening is a joint venture between FiveMyles gallery, curator Greg Pond, Nashville's Fugitive Projects and the Irish group Human Resources, headed by Emma Houlihan, an artist and curator from Dublin.
Free and open to the public, Wed. Dec. 10th's screening takes place at 7:30 pm at Power House Memphis.
The Flying Squid Battalion, under the leadership of wind doubler Paul Morelli, is a new band devoted to playing great dance music of all kinds. They perform swing music from the big band era through the modern era, along with soul and rock classics. What sets them apart from other bands that play swing is that they are only half the size (an 8-piece instead of a 17-piece). Because the wind players double and the charts are carefully crafted, they get more sound out of fewer musicians and can perform those tunes more authentically.
The Flying Squid Battalion has performed to rave reviews for Red Hot Lindy Hop swing dances at the Gallery Ballroom and St. Peter's Church and for swing night at Celeste Dance Club. Their high-energy shows and ability to play a variety of styles made those nights memorable for the dancers. Because they appeal to every generation, FSB will make your event much more fun as well.
Come to the Rumba Room for the hottest night of swing dancing around! Flying Squid Battalion plays from 8-11 on Wednesday night, December 10th!
Voices of the South and Project: Motion host Pre-sent/Pres-ent
12-09-2008
It's comedy, drama, music, and dance. It's a variety show with attitude. This Memphis tradition returns for the seventh, smash-hit year in a row. Pre-sent /Pres-ent IS the holiday theatre event of the year. If you've been an audience member before, you know. There's nothing in Memphis quite like it. This holiday-themed performing arts buffet will give you a taste of exciting new performance from local artists and leave you begging for more.
Craving something sticky and sweet? Don't miss this year's caramelization of holiday merriment as Voices of the South and Project: Motion reunite for the seventh year in a row and unwrap the smash-hit, highly anticipated variety show, Pre-sent/Pres-ent 2008. Flavored with personal stories, kitschy comedy, evocative dance and an eclectic mix of music, this year's collaboration features all-new seasonal offerings created by local performing artists, inspired by custom made gifts and cleverly sequenced between the razor sharp wit of Sister Myotis. Cheeky and cheerful, thoughtful and dreamlike, this sonic swirl of holiday entertainment is unique to Memphis and is a must see for the curious. Pre-sent/Pres-ent 2008 is a visual treat designed to brighten your mood, warm your heart, and leave you all aglow.
December 12-December 21, 2008 Tickets: $20/adults and $15/students and seniors
Jump Back Jake Debut Album Release Show at the Hi-Tone!!!
12-09-2008
Local indie rock & soul outfit Jump Back Jake is playing their debut album release show at The Hi-Tone Café on Friday, December 19, 2008 starting at 10pm. The band will feature their horn section and play two sets of originals and soul flavored covers.
Jump Back Jake's debut record, "Brooklyn Hustle / Memphis Muscle," produced by Pete Matthews at the legendary Ardent Studios, is the first release from Ardent Music, the newly reactivated Memphis label that launched power-pop pioneers Big Star. Three tracks from the debut album are currently available for a limited time as free mp3 downloads.
Jump Back Jake Debut Album Release Show at the Hi-Tone Café
Date: Friday, December 19, 2008 Time: 10pm Cover: $5 Location: The Hi-Tone Café, 1913 Poplar Avenue
Power House Memphis welcomes local Artist Kiersten Williams to The Fuel Room. Kiersten N. Williams was born in Memphis in 1981. She attended Overton High School where she actively pursued art in its advanced program. She received a Business Management degree from University of Memphis in 2004. After a brief hiatus from practicing art while earning the business degree, Williams reclaimed her passion for creating and has been dedicated to art-making ever since.
The process for the creation of Free Fall is sort of an attempt to catch butterflies- snatching unexpected ponderings out of the meadow of my mind. Fragments of random thoughts and statements are conjured, caught, and then collected. This collection grows into an idea bank organized by chaos, which timely selects what ponderings require attention. Finally, they are revealed as adages and mantras, phrases and numbers, and symbolic and figurative imagery- all rendered in a graffiti-manner amongst clouds of melding bright colors.
The work then becomes a playful juxtaposition of colored thought to evoke feelings related to my experiences. Free Fall radiates with vibrancy that generates an energetic presence; and while it seems mischievous and childlike, it offers a much deeper meaning. Relevant commentary is expressed through constant wordplay that offers a satirical edge- reacting to the manufactured and often artificial world in which we live.
A most typical example is "Dreamy Creamy Bull," a slogan for my perception of how people often cater to the establishment as a trade-off to experiencing their own reality. I believe that most people never give up manipulation, bargaining, and the pursuit of perfectionism which ultimately lead to an unfulfilled life. One must fallfrom these things in order to be free- a Free Fall.
Kiersten Williams Free Fall The Fuel Room @ Power House Memphis 45 GE Patterson, Memphis, TN 38103 December 12, 2008 - February 7, 2009 Opening reception Friday, December 12, 6 - 8pm
Pezz back with split vinyl LP with While I Breathe I Hope
12-05-2008
Concept album to raise funds for Mid-South Peace and Justice Center.
Memphis punk veterans Pezz became an active band two years ago after a five-year hiatus that saw members start families, travel with peace delegations to Iraq and Palestine, star in independent films and found non-profit bicycle co-ops.
All important work mind you, but for fans of the band's recorded output - four full-length albums and a host of EPs, singles and film and compilation appearances - the band's return was incomplete, until now.
More than a year in the making, Pezz returns with the band's first new material since 2001 - a split vinyl LP with friends While I Breathe I Hope to be released on the Makeshift Music label.
"Connecting with live audiences again has been a lot of fun," said founding guitar player/singer Marvin Stockwell. "While I Breathe welcomed us back by playing our first three shows with us. They're a great band and, sonically, they're a good match with us."
The album will first be available Dec. 5th at a record release show in Memphis at the Hi Tone, 1913 Poplar Ave. In addition to Pezz and While I Breathe I Hope playing, the Antique Curtains will open the show and local favorites Streetside Symphony will play second. Of the record's first pressing of 500 copies, 100 have been pressed on splattered vinyl and will be sold at a premium, with the extra money going to support the work of the Mid-South Peace and Justice Center.
"We thought it made sense, since our side of the record (entitled "When Giants Walked the Earth") deals mainly with Ceylon's peace and justice work and making the necessary sacrifices to make the world a better place," Stockwell said. "People can advance the cause of peace and justice and get the limited colored vinyl at the same time."
The While I Breathe I Hope side of the record, entitled "Failures," takes up the flip side of the thematic coin, addressing the failures of leaders who succumb to greed, selfishness and deceit and become corrupt.
While Makeshift Music is perhaps better known for indie rock bands such as Snowglobe, the Coach and Four and Two Way Radio, label co-owner J.D. Reager said the new release is in keeping with what Makeshift is all about.
"Most of us who are involved with Makeshift came up in the '90s Memphis DIY/punk scene, and we were inspired by bands like Pezz," Reager said. "So it's a big thrill and bit of an honor for us to be able to be a part of this record."
T.I. to Bring "Holiday Hip Hop Tour" Featuring Young Jeezy
12-05-2008
The holiday season just got a little hotter, as rap superstar T.I. is bringing his "Holiday Hip Hop Jam Tour" featuring Young Jeezy to FedExForum Sunday, December 21, 2008.
Since his debut album in 2001, T.I. has had nine Top 10 Billboard Hot 100 singles, including three that went all the way to No. 1. His most recent chart-topper, "Whatever You Like" off his Paper Trail album is his first solo to go all the way to No. 1 on the charts.
The Atlanta-based Young Jeezy has had multiple Billboard Hot 100 hits since his independent album debut in 2001, as both a solo artist and as a member of the rap mega-group Boyz n Da Hood. Young Jeezy has also collaborated with stars such as Young Buck, Trick Daddy, Akon, R. Kelly, Christina Milian and Usher.
This Prize Fight Promotions concert will begin at 7:30 p.m., with doors opening at 6:30 p.m.
Tickets for the show, which are available for $34, $44, $54 and $64 with a limited number of $102 VIP seats, are on sale now at Ticketmaster.com, all Ticketmaster locations, the FedExForum Box Office or by phone at (901) 525-1515.
Bachelor of Fine Arts Candidates from Memphis College of Art present their work in BFA Exhibition through December 12 in the Main Gallery, Rust Hall in MCA’s Overton Park campus. An opening reception is Friday, December 5 from 6-8 pm. The reception and exhibition are free. Gallery hours are Monday through Friday from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm, Saturday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, and Sunday from noon to 4:00 pm. For more information call 272-5100.
The exhibition showcases works by BFA candidates Ryan Lee Arthur from Memphis; Mar’Kece Tra Shune Brown from Augusta, GA; Tracey Lashawn Canty from Columbia, TN; Derrick D. Dent from Memphis; Kristian Diane Falotico from Royal Palm Beach, FL; Ashley M. Gerst from Simpsonville, SC; Jeremy Nathaniel Hodge from Eads, TN; Courtney Elizabeth Lollar from Blytheville, AR; Anthony D’wayne Moore from Byhalia, MS; Chad O’Neal Nash from Louisville, KY; Kyle J. Novak from West Palm Beach, FL; Jeremy A. Paten from New Orleans, LA; Tyrone B. Pierce from Wiggins, MS; Miranda L. Powell from Hot Springs National Park, AR; Rebecca Claire Tribble from Athens, AL and Jared Vaughn from Piggott, AR. Works in design arts and fine arts media are featured including digital media, drawing, graphic design, illustration, painting, photography and printmaking.
Memphis College of Art provides a rigorous curriculum in an intimate, diverse community to empower generations of leading artists, designers and educators to flourish professionally and contribute valuable ideas to society. The region’s only independent art and design college, MCA is fully accredited with expert, nationally renowned faculty and grants BFA, MFA, MA in Art Education and MA in Teaching degrees with graduates excelling in various careers across the country and internationally.
Friday, December 5: U of M Music Business Student Showcase
This showcase is given as part of the degree completion for music business students at the University of Memphis. Come out and see short performances by 9 different acts of several genres in a showcase format. The order of performance is not yet determined.
Scheduled to appear: The Iron Mic Coalition (hip-hop), Escaped Goat (rock), Alex Kramer (contemporary jazz guitar), Ray (R&B), G-Rize (rap), Avish & Da Kid (rap), Matt Wood (rock), Greyhouse Saloon (singer-songwriter), and The Hmm Hmm Show (musical comedy).
$5 Cover. Doors at 7 pm. Show at 8 pm. All ages.
Saturday, December 6: The Ho Ho Ho's, Susan Marshall, Kim Richardson, Reba Russell
It's The HO HO HO SHOW! Eleven dollars worth of crazy for only ten dollars. Don't miss the Christmas gala Ho Ho Ho Show, Susan Marshall, Kim Richardson, and Reba Russell. These three legendary Memphis songstresses combine on stage for holiday show that has become a Memphis institution. This special show is themed for adults and is only $10 at the door.
SUSAN MARSHALL Marshall's resume now boasts studio and/or stage time with the likes of Lenny Kravitz, Norah Jones, Keith Richards, Primal Scream, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Mavis Staples, Greg Dulli and the Afghan Whigs, Mya, The Memphis Horns, The Doobie Brothers, Dionne Warwick, Jerry Butler, the North Mississippi Allstars, Alvin Youngblood Hart, Steve Earle, Ann Peebles, Jay Farrar, Jim James of My Morning Jacket, Adam Levy, Jim Lauderdale, Todd Snider, John Doe, Emerson Hart of Tonic, and many others. She's also worked with such legendary engineer/producers as Tom Dowd, Chips Moman, Jim Dickinson, John Hampton, Joe Hardy, Dusty Wakeman and Jeff Powell.
"SUSAN MARSHALL IS HONEY MOUTH" and "FIREFLY" available at www.susanmarshall.net, iTunes, Amazon.com, CDBABY.com and http://www.vividsound.co.jp/ctlg.php
http://www.myspace.com/susanmarshall
KIM RICHARDSON A performing songwriter who thrives on involving the audience, Kim encourages her audience to "experience" the show rather than just watch and listen. The songs live with a lot of humor and attitude, accompanied by a percussive acoustic guitar.
Kim was nominated for Female Vocalist of the Year by the Memphis chapter of NARAS not too long ago, and this year won the songwriting contest at the Ozark Folk Festival.
http://www.myspace.com/kimrichardsonmusic
REBA RUSSELL Russell has been a Memphis staple for more than two decades, from her Rock and Roll days in Reba & the Portables, to her current ensemble The Reba Russell Band, a popular attraction on the blues festival circuit. Reba never disappoints, running the gamut from blues to rock to soul. You can buy her new CD Rewound and download songs at www.rebarussell.com.
http://www.myspace.com/therebarussellband
$10 Cover. Doors at 7 pm. All ages. Smoke free. Beer Coffee and Food. Large patio and deck. 641 S Cooper. 901-278-4994.
Blues Legend B.B. King will be coming to town December 10th, 2008 to play one show, one night at his club on Beale Street. Don't miss this show! Tickets are on sale now. Call the Gift Shop at (901)524-5464 to purchase tickets. Standing Room Only $50 Reserved Seats $125 VIP Package 4 course dinner at Itta Bena and a VIP Reserved seat $200
RELATED LINKS
----------------------------- B.B. King's
MUSIC
The North End / Jefferson Square 25th Anniversary Reunion Celebration
12-02-2008
On Tuesday, December 2nd, from 6pm-12am, we will celebrate 25 years since Jefferson Square moved to The North End at 346 N. Main Street. Join us for a night of Music, Memories & Drink Specials. Please feel free to contribute ANYTHING you have to share - photos, memories, music, ideas, contacts, etc.
Confirmed musical performances by: FreeWorld, Klaudia & Rico, Peter Hyrka & Victims of Circumstance, The Ricos, Steve Reid & Friends, Don McGregor, Richard Cushing, PLUS possible reunion performances by The Bluebeats and Kaya & the Weldors!
The North End is now Westy's Restaurant but only the name has changed. Be There or Be Square! Please Help Spread the Word!!
Westy's 346 N. Main St. Memphis, TN 38103
Tuesday, December 2, 2008 6pm - 12am NO COVER!
RELATED LINKS
----------------------------- Westy's
