I get one month and you best believe I am gonna "do it B-I-G!"! "Go BALLS to the WALL" !
(insert sarcasm here)
:)
Dr. Carter G. Woodson
February was chosen as, "Negro History Week", now more commonly referred to as, "Black History Month" (also known as: "African American History Month") by Dr. Carter G. Woodson in 1926.
The month of February was chosen as this honorary celebration, as it was in honor of Frederick Douglass's birthday, as well as the birthday of President Abraham Lincoln. Two men of much influence within the black culture.
I am hopeful that this month is not the only occasion persons brief themselves on the richness of the people and events that give purpose to this unofficial holiday.
Of course, celebrate & embrace the marked month, as there was much fight to land "privilege" in earning calendar recognition, but; let not a recognized day, week or month mark meaning to who you are as a person and/or a culture ~ know and love your history :)
Listening to him belt his soul is fixating, but; to watch him perform is orgasmic!
The strum of the guitar starts to make its way to the ear; the piano pieces itself in sync, melting its melody with the other - and you just have no idea what to anticipate from this HUGE (6'3, 300lb)man hoovering over his guitar, as his foot starts to tap and he begins to rock silently side to side - up and down....
...and then he starts to moan a tune. (sigh):)
Howlin' Wolf ~ "Ill be Back Someday" (1964)
Chester A. Arthur a.k.a Howlin' Wolf (actually named after the 21st President of the United States) obtained his nickname from his grandfather, as he would tell his grandson stories about the wolves that would come to get him, if he would misbehave.
He was 13 years of age when he was forced to leave his mother's home for refusing to work the plantation, then his uncle as his caregiver mistreated him - leaving Wolf to walk 85 miles, as he set his path to stay with his father and his family.
1930 - Howlin' Wolf meets the legendary blues musician, Charlie Patton, who becomes Wolf's mentor and teacher of the guitar. They would float to various jukejoints playing together, as Patton took Wolf under his wing.
His journey as a musician is a long standing one and such an humble man he was - with money practically falling out of his pockets, he was quite successful. Yet and still, he chose to drive himself gig to gig - in his older model car.
If you have not already watched the Howlin' Wolf documentary, I highly recommend!
It uncovers Wolf, the musician, but also you see "Chester" - the character of this man (I sware I fell in love). :)
A man that was and is adored, may be safe to say; worshipped, by the legendary band: The Rolling Stones (clip below). And many others continue to highlight his music today.
This man is known to many, but not enough!
I am so thrilled Wolf became a part of my world; to have discovered his music and undig the persona of this man through reading, live footage and the documentary recommended below.
My music world is all the better! :) My husband in another life! :)
Rest In Peace. Howlin' Wolf.
Links below to purchase documentary/biography and live performances :) Enjoy!
Howlin' Wolf ~ Live Performance on "Shindig" (feature appearance of Rolling Stones)
Howlin' Wolf ~ Shake For Me (1964)
Howlin' Wolf ~ SmokeStack Lightning (1964)
Howlin' Wolf , "Dont Laugh At Me" (1964)
Hubert Smith discusses: "Muddy Waters vs. Howlin' Wolf"
Purchase, The Howlin' Wolf Story - The Secret History of Rock & Roll @ AMAZON
Purchase, Moanin' at Midnight: The Life and Times of Howlin' Wolf @ AMAZON
I have been slowly gaining an ear of appreciation towards his music these past few months - in conjunction with a few interviews I have read & watched, I find myself becoming - well, a bit obsessed! :)
As all makes sense why I would be so; considering he is known as Miles Davis "brother from another mother" as they shared a unique musical bond and friendship.
I am still in review of the film, "Bill Evans Trio - The Oslo Concerts ", but I will note; it is not only interesting for listening purposes while watching the trio perform, but also sensing the audience and atmosphere as well, as the first half of the film is a concert in 1966, and the other filmed during a 1988 concert.
So anxious for Spring time to kick off - and what better than a show from the legend himself! So excited he is gracing our city with a live show @ ARENA THEATER, 03/10!
This day forever holds dear to my heart; for not only the reason of my very own birthday, but to share it with such a great leader that graced this country; Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., - I have always felt to be the luckiest girl in the world!
I share his speech (below) as one can never hear it enough; and each listen tantalizes different emotions and resonates in a distinct way. So powerful! So inspiring! SO UNITING!
It was a speech built on great hope and love, for not just a freedom for a minority people; but an adoration, for the ideals of all to bleed together; resulting in the build of a great nation.
Personally, this speech melts my heart in such a happy way! Despite one's own opinion of Martin Luther King Jr.'s ideals, principals and/or leadership during his time; there is no ignoring the passion and great courage King possessed.
