Welcome to Fossy's Blues Page, here I am trying to help with promoting the blues, not only in and around the Portsmouth area but worldwide. Below you will find links to some of my favourite artists web sites, blues music sites, harmonica tutorial sites and anything else I can think of. This does not replace my normal links page.
If you have a blues related Band or just play the Blues and would like a link on this site, please contact Fossy for more info.
LOCAL MUSICIANS AND BANDS
Like the music ? then click the abum cover to find out more.
Andy Broad is a local musician and runs his own site supporting and promoting the blues in the local area. Read an extract of his biography below .
Since becoming a fully professional musician in 1989 Andy has been developing his solo style. Swapping between acoustic and electric guitar his distinctive rhythmic style has been forged by the pragmatic approach of "getting out on the street" and playing the blues. The solo performance (occasionally accompanied by a harmonica or sax player) is where Andy's real strengths lie. Freed from the rigid structures of band life Andy plays in rhythmic metres that would give any drummer or bass player a headache but which follow the ebb and flow of the emotions of the blues.
SOME OF FOSSY'S FAVOURITE MUSICIANS, BANDS , EVENTS AND LINKS
Tom Ball and Kenny Sultan
This duo have been bringing their unique blend of guitar and harmonica blues, rags and good time music to widely diverse audiences for more than 25 years. Their live performances include concerts, clubs and festivals all over the world, and they were the only musical act in America to play all four venues of the 1984 Olympic Games.
Together and separately they have worked on countless film scores, TV soundtracks, commercials and sessions. They've appeared on television internationally, were featured on the "Levi's 501 Blues" commercials, have played for audiences of 300 million via Voice of America and are frequent guests of National Public Radio. Their eight duo albums have garnered much critical acclaim throughout the world, and their music from the film "Over The Edge" won the duo the prestigious Telly Award in 1994.
Probably the lagest Blues event happening locally. Held once a year at one of Palmerstons Forts (Fort Purbrook) situated on Portsdown Hill overlooking the City of Portsmouth. Blues At The Fort brings some of the top blues acts into a large marquee over a 2 night period. Also at this event you will find a large selection of Real Ales, essential to the Blues fanatic for a good evening out.
What can you say about one of the UK's top blues bands that have been playing for years and still going strong, either as a band, individuals or duo combinations. The photos below on the left are the copyright of Ian Narbeth. Why not visit his website and see more of his excellent pictures.
Click the pictures to visit The Blues Bands website, or click here to visit their discussion forum.
These pictures should not be reproduced without the express permission of the copyright owner.
John Mayall
What more can you say about the "godfather" of British Blues. I have been a fan of Johns since the early 60's, before The Beano Album even came out, and have lost count the number of times I have seen him perfom. My only regret was that I never saw him live with Eric Clapton.
Now in his 70's, John still has a rigorous tour schedule which would put many younger bands to shame
The excellent picture of John came from Tim Holek in the States who has many photos of blues artists on his site. Check it out here.
CHERYL ARENA
Another excellent female harp player from the states. Check out her website and brilliant album by clicking on the picture above .
Paul Rishell & Annie Raines
Another excellent country blues/ blues duo with one of the best female harp players in the business.
The Broad Street Blues Band
A very unusual blues band, which includes an electric violin in its line up. Based in New Britain area, they are shown here playing their first live gig. The members are mainly Polish and sing many blues songs in their own language. The second player on the left is Jerry Malinka, who painted the pictures on my homepage. Click on the picture below to see more photos.
A definitive UK site for the Blues designed and maintained by Alan White. Contains all information about coming Blues Festivals, details of bands, Blues history etc. etc. etc . There is far too much to list here, so just check the site out for yourself. I promise you, you will keep returning.
Snooky Pryor was a true pioneer of the postwar blues sound. Born in Lambert, Mississippi on September 15, 1921, James Edward Pryor took up the harp at the age of 14 despite the objections of his minister father, copping licks from old Sonny Boy Williamson 78's.
A true blues great, but unfortunatelySnooky Pryor passed away on October 18, 2006.
