Retro: Kimmer

THE HOLLIES: ALLAN CLARKE.. I CAN'T LET GO....

2012-02-01T21:09:00.007-05:00

A blogger friend sent me a dvd some years back about fashion photography in London during the 1960s. While watching this the other night I heard the Hollies singing "I Can't Let Go." I hadn't heard that song in forever. Tracked it down on you tube... been playing it every day since...RK

The Hollies are an English pop and rock group, formed in Manchester in the early 1960s, though most of the band members are from throughout East Lancashire.

Known for their incredible vocal harmonies, they became one of the leading British groups of the 1960s and 1970s. They enjoyed considerable popularity in many countries, although they did not achieve major US chart success until 1966.

Along with The Rolling Stones and The Searchers, they are one of the few British pop groups of the early 1960s that have never officially broken up and that continue to record and perform. The Hollies were inducted to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2010.

The original line-up included Allan Clarke as lead vocalist,my favorite cute guy in the band....

"He Aint Heavy He's My Brother" still gives me chills when I hear Allan sing it....

He and his childhood friend, Graham Nash, began singing together in Manchester while still at school. In April 1963, they added Tony Hicks (lead guitar) (who replaced Vic Steele), along with the later additions of Bobby Elliott and Bernie Calvert (who would replace Eric Haydock on bass in 1966).

The Hollies formed in December 1962, founded by Clarke and Nash. Clarke was their lead vocalist, but also played occasional guitar and harmonica. In the UK they enjoyed 30 chart singles, plus two further chart entries with re-releases, 17 of which made the Top 10, with two – "I'm Alive" (1965) and "He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother" (1988 re-issue) – reaching No. 1, the latter on re-release; it had originally been a top three hit in 1969.

In the US charts they achieved 23 chart singles, six of which hit the Top 10. Many of the group’s songs were co-written by Clarke, usually with Hicks and Nash, until the latter's departure at the end of 1968. They used the pseudonym "L. Ransford" initially for their song-writing credits, then 'Clarke-Hicks-Nash' from mid 1966 onwards.

in 1966 Clarke helped along with several Hollies bandmates in The Everly Brothers recording of their album 'Two Yanks In England' which featured Everlys covers of mostly Hollies songs co-written by Clarke.

Clarke-Hicks-Nash between them composed The Hollies albums; 'For Certain Because...' (1966), 'Evolution', and 'Butterfly' (both 1967), while their UK hit singles compilation; 'Hollies' Greatest' topped the UK album charts in August 1968.

Graham Nash as guitarist and vocalist, Vic Steele (born Victor Winston Farrell, 8 May 1945, Manchester) on guitar, with Eric Haydock on bass guitar and Don Rathbone on drums (born Donald Rathbone, October 1942, Wilmslow, Cheshire). Steele left in April 1963, shortly before they signed to Parlophone as label-mates of The Beatles. Tony Hicks, who replaced Steele, and Bobby Elliott, who replaced Don Rathbone, joined the band in quick succession in 1963; both had played in a Nelson-based band, The Dolphins. Bernie Calvert, who replaced Haydock in 1966, was also a member of The Dolphins.

SOUL TRAIN'S DON CORNELIUS DIES OF APPARENT SUICIDE

2012-02-01T10:51:00.007-05:00

Don Cornelius

Sad news today... Don Cornelius of "Soul Train" has died of an apparent suicide. Don was 75. Don Cornelius was one of the biggest pioneers in American music. with his show "Soul Train" Don brought Motown Soul Pop R&B Funk and Hip Hop music to the masses.

Before Soul Train we had a few local dance tv shows and of course American Bandstand. But they were pretty dull compared to Soul Train... Check the dancers in this episode featuring one of my very favorite bands WAR.

Personally what I loved most about Soul Train were the dancers! Those kids had all the moves... We tried to copy them as best as we could....

Don's voice was such a deep baritone and had instant recognition when you heard him on the air. Mr. Cornelius made such a huge contribution to many many young lives and I hope he is honored for all his efforts. Hopefully he is in a better place now...RIP

Don Cornelius on Walk of Fame

From the LA Times:

A family member of Don Cornelius arrived at his Mulholland Drive home in Encino on Wednesday morning and found the "Soul Train" creator with a gunshot wound to the head, authorities said.

He was rushed to Cedars Sinai Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead, according to law enforcement sources.

His death is being investigated by the Los Angeles Police Department and L.A. County coroner's office. The sources said detectives think it was a self-inflicted gunshot wound but stressed they are still investigating. FULL STORY HERE

Look how cool this show was! American Bandstand never looked this bright!

Press Release

STATEMENT FROM THE RHYTHM AND BLUES FOUNDATION CHAIRMAN DAMON WILLIAMS ON THE PASSING OF SOUL TRAIN CREATOR DON CORNELIUS

“Don Cornelius was a VISIONARY AND PIONEER who will always be remembered for his gift to the world: 'Soul Train.' Without Don's contributions, Rhythm and Blues music would not have had a TV platform to expose artists that has meant so much to the rich history of Rhythm and Blues music. We are beyond grateful to Don for everything that he has done to cement our music and our culture into the hearts and minds of people all over the world.

“Our condolences go out to Don’s family and friends all over the world"

Media contact:
Randy Alexander
Randex Communications
609.280.6140
randex@randexpr.com
www.randexpr.com

THE PURPLE GANG: GRACELAND BALLROOM

2012-01-31T23:03:00.007-05:00

The Graceland Ballroom Lupton, Michigan

The Graceland Ball room in Lupton Michigan was a favorite place for the Purple Gang. The building was built in the late 1920's until it burnt down in the early 1980s. Floyd Pastula was the owner at the time that it burnt.

When you walked in the building there were bullet holes all through the timbers, and they had mannequins dressed in the corner as the purple gang.

Although the Graceland building burned in the early 1980s, many Ogemaw County, Michigan residents will recall its striking rustic design.

The original owner, Mike Gelfand, aka One-arm-Mike, a former member of Detroit's infamous Purple Gang, and many stories came from this connection, a few of them true.

Mike purchased the property for one dollar from his sister who had inherited it from an uncle's estate. No one knows where the money to build the ballroom came from - speculation is the Purple Gang. Graceland burned from a fire.

GRACELAND BALLROOM
THE PURPLE GANG
DETROIT, LUPTON,
MICHIGAN NEWSPAPER

A mix of prohibition and an economic boom from the automotive industry in Detroit during the 1920s caused the uprising of the notorious Purple Gang.

In Detroit the 1920s were a time of excess. Although prohibition was in affect, Detroit's gangsters imported alcohol from near-by Windsor. Proceeds from this industry went to various developments, but none were more impressive than the building of the South Branch Ranch and the Graceland Ballroom.

Not far from the south branch of Au Sable river in northern Michigan, the gang built one of the largest ranches in Michigan history. The various barns surrounding the primary residence resembled modern day airplane hangars. They included an indoor horse riding area, dance parlor, interlinking tunnels, and hidden rooms.

Info I found in a forum....

Kenyons Hideout: I grew up next to the Graceland Ballroom, Home of the Purple Gang, I knew Floyd Pastula very well. He owned Graceland at the time. I know that Al Capone was there on many occasions, recalled by Floyd himself... Both Al Capone and The Purple Gang used to frequent a place called Kenyon's on sage lake where there is still a old mob house that was owned by the Purple Gang! It recently sold a few years ago... This is a 784 acre lake riddled with Tunnels too... Kenyon's still exists, but the Graceland burned down years ago, shortly after Floyd Died as well...

Ed Rychcik: I am Floyd Pastula's nephew. I had all the amusement games,pinball, pool tables, hockey table, and different games in it when it burned down. I was there early the next morning. The fires were still simmering. I recovered about $600 in quarters. All the quarters are fused and many are melted together.

Graceland is mentioned in the Kenyon's Hideout video

Read More on RK
Kenyon's Hideout and The Purple Gang

WELCOME BACK KOTTER STAR PASSES: RIP JUAN EPSTEIN

2012-01-27T17:05:00.005-05:00

My favorite Sweat hog Juan Epstein

Robert Hegyes (pronounced Hedges; May 7, 1951 – January 26, 2012) was an American actor best known for his portrayal of high school student Juan Epstein on the 1970s American sitcom Welcome Back, Kotter.

While performing on Broadway, Hegyes auditioned for television producer James Komack and was cast to star in what was to become the award-winning ABC comedy, Welcome Back, Kotter.

How Juan Epstein Altered TV Forever

Hegyes portrayed the character of Juan Luis Pedro Felipo de Huevos Epstein (typically referred to as simply "Epstein"). The show lasted four seasons, from 1975-1979. Hegyes became one of the show's directors at age 25.

Robert with his cousins Joseph and Jon Bon Jovi

Robert Hegyes
Official Website

On January 26, 2012, after suffering from chest pains at his Metuchen, New Jersey home, Hegyes died from an apparent heart attack at John F. Kennedy Medical Center in Edison, New Jersey. He was 60 years old.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Hegyes family and Robert's widow and children... RIP Epstein!

RETROKIMMER INTERVIEWS MYSTERIAN BOBBY BALDERRAMA!

2012-01-26T00:02:00.012-05:00

Robert Lee Balderrama
Photo: Underground Bee

Robert "Bobby" Balderrama, born in O'Donnell, Texas, grew up in Saginaw, Michigan, is the lead guitarist for the band Question Mark & the Mysterians. Bobby told me they all wrote their hit song 96 Tears. He later played with Joe King Carrasco, the Crowns on the Bandido Rock album of 1987, and now fronts his own Smooth Jazz Band Robert Lee Revue.

The Robert Lee Revue:

Robert Lee Balderrama-Guitar; Frank Rodriguez-Keyboard/Piano; Robert Martinez-Drums; Tom Barsheff-Sax; Amy Lynn-Percussion; Nick Balderrama-Rhythm Guitar; Jack Nash-Bass; Rudolph Levario-Percussion.

Robert Lee with Ibanez Guitar

What a pleasure to chat with the amazing Bobby Balderrama the lead guitarist of Question Mark and the Mysterians and currently fronting his band the Robert Lee Revue!

It was so fabulous seeing Bobby play live 4 times in the past year and again on New Year's Eve. As the band was tuning up I shot over to Bobby and asked him to pose for a picture for me. He stopped everything and gave me such a nice shot. I just loved it...

Bobby B New Year's Eve with Strat

Bobby and I talked at great length about music and we have a lot of guitar heroes in common. The first influence Bobby spoke of was our friend the legendary Detroit Wheels guitarist Jimmy McCarty..

We talked about how when McCarty plays he is lost in his music...Bobby plays the same way. He doesn't see the audience... the guitar becomes part of his body and he just plays......

Robert Lee Balderrama

The second guitarist we chatted about was Carlos Santana. Bobby said it was amazing to watch Santana evolve and invent his own guitar style with Latin influence and yet still really rocks out.

Bobby talks about Santana and Smooth Jazz...

As I do I asked about Bobby's guitars. He played a Mexican Fender Stratocaster on New Year's Eve. He explained to me that Fender makes American and Mexican guitars. Bobby said that his Mexican was less expensive but played just as well as an American Strat.

Bobby on far left with Question Mark and the Mysterians

I always ask lead guitar players who gave them their first guitar.. It seems like it was always their father... Bobby told me that his brother's wife was frustrated when her husband came home late and did an El Kabong on his head with his guitar...! Of course it broke. His brother then gave it to his Dad and then Dad gave it to Bobby! The rest is history...

In 1976 George Benson had the monster hit album Breezin. Bobby heard George play and it inspired Bobby to play smooth jazz. George Benson played with an Ibanez jazz guitar as does Bobby with the Robert Lee Revue.

You can listen to Robert Lee Revue's CD here

Bobby is sending me the Robert Lee Revue CD For the Love of Smooth Jazz and we can't wait to have it! Here is a review of the CD

You can find Bobby: :

Robert Lee Revue Facebook
Robert Lee Revue Myspace

Read More on RK
New Year's Eve with Question Mark and the Mysterians
Flintstock Question Mark and the Mysterians
Question Mark and the Mysterians

Loved chatting with Bobby B and I am certain we will be in front when the Robert Lee Revue plays soon. Bobby is a really great guy and we will be talking with him again soon for part 2!

Thanks Bobby! xxooRK

RETROKIMMER: FAVORITE DETROIT SOUL TUNES

2012-01-25T18:53:00.005-05:00

I was asked to pick some songs for a Detroit Music page on Facebook the other day. They wanted songs that were not obvious or top 40 hits... So I spent a couple of hours tracking down some of my very favorites that some of you might not know....

Barbara Lewis "Make Me Your Baby"

Jr Walker and the Allstars "I'm a Roadrunner"

The Detroit Emeralds "Baby Let Me Take You"

The Four Tops "There's Something About You"

Smokey Robinson and the Miracles "More Love"

Marvin Gaye "Come Get to This"

Bobby Taylor and the Vancouvers "Does Your Mama Know About Me"

Marvelettes "Don't Mess with Bill"

The Velvelettes "Needle in a Haystack"

The Supremes "Breath Taking Guy"

The Pirates (The Temptations) "Mind Over Matter"

Mary Wells "Bye Bye Baby"

Brenda Holloway "When I'm Gone"

KENYON'S HIDEOUT DETROIT'S PURPLE GANG

2012-01-25T13:08:00.010-05:00

Kenyon's (Hideout) Lakeside Resort

While Lesley and I were up north for Thanksgiving, I met Lynette Ewald in Oscoda and she told me about Kenyon's Hideout. Had never heard of this resort before. Found the owner's phone and email then wrote to her about an interview.

Yesterday Barbara the owner replied to my email... We are going to chat soon and I am definitely going to visit the Hideout this summer.... This place is right up my alley...

Kenyon's Hideout was a favorite haunt of Detroit's Purple Gang... take a look at this VERY COOL Michigan resort.... Thanks Barb! xoRK

Michigan Magazine takes a tour of Kenyons Hideout and Resort near Lupton, Michigan. New owner Barbara Goodboo takes us on a room by room tour of this century old historic land mark business. We see hidden tunnels, passage ways and trap doors of the resort's heyday during the depression under the influence of the PURPLE GANG!

Michigan Forum Discussion on Graceland Ballroom/Kenyon's Hideout

Do you believe in ghosts? If you do you'll enjoy the stories of sightings and paranormal activity Barbara relates to us that she and others have experienced while renovating and restoring the building and property. If you don't believe in ghosts...your opinion is welcome to help explain what happened to their camera crew as they filmed the "Godfather" room!...

Kenyon's Resort is known as one of the best kept secrets in town located on a 785 acre lake known as Sage Lake in Lupton Michigan. They have a marina for boat gas and a 15 slip boat dock for customers and hotel guests.

Kenyon's Resort on Facebook

KR has a nice little beach for swimming and relaxing. They offer casual beach side dining from the OutSide Bar and Grill, while getting a tan, or you can eat upstairs in the VIP Lounge/Dining Room overlooking the Lake. (Proper attire required for dining room level.)

Kenyon's Restoration Photos

Evening entertainment is at the Piano Bar Located downstairs in the SpeakEasy Lounge on Friday and Saturday evenings. Or, bring the family for Game Night and all you can eat pizza on Thursdays from 5-9pm. We also specialize in Murder Mystery Dinner Parties and Gangster Event nights, full costume for adults only this is where you are the actors! By reservation only.

Call and ask for Barb. 989-473-2442

Kenyon's Hideout Website

Read More on RK

Detroit Mobsters: The Purple Gang
The Violent Years: Detroit Mafia
Detroit Purple Gang: The Albion Connection

Thank you Lynette and Barbara!

RETROKIMMER: ANN ARBOR NIGHT CLUB SECOND CHANCE

2012-01-24T00:17:00.024-05:00

Second Chance Entrance

In August of 1974 a huge night club opened in Ann Arbor called "Chances Are". I was 18 and just graduated high school... Word spread quickly about the club and how cool it was. The bar was 3 levels with bars on each floor. The interior was made of wood. Have never seen a club that looked like this.

Then in 1976 the name was changed to "Second Chance" due to a problem with another business.

The Second Chance Website

Bob Tickle Cathy Stoner Stanley T. Madhatter John Carver Fred Smith Patti Smith

Tons of bands played SC.. National acts along with local bands too. My friends had a band called "Masquerade". Masquerade was the house band for a couple of years. They played most Friday and Saturday nights. We were always in the crowd dancing to this band.

Jim Calder Rich Nisbet and Bruce Miller

The photo above is Masquerade doing a sound check. These guys were all from Ypsilanti High School.

Iggy played SC in 1981

Fred Sonic Smith and Scott Asheton (Joe Ruffner)

Sonic's Rendezous Band played SC a lot

Niagara and Destroy All Monsters played SC a lot too.

My friend Skid Marx played with Flirt at SC

Skid Marx

Notice the railing the guy is sitting on....

Today I went back to meet with Scot the owner of NECTO the current club that occupies the building. I haven't been in this club since the late 1980's. Scot told me they still have all those wooden sticks from the railing! They are stored out of sight.

Masquerade tuning up on the Second Chance stage

Rich Nisbet and Alan Gwyllt Halloween at SC

We never missed the Second Chance Halloween party. The crowd went all out to win the costume contest. I remember one winner... A guy made a Creature of the Black Lagoon costume out of blue and red garbage bags and plastic. It was incredible...

My friend Alan Gwyllt had this amazing Satyr costume. I need to ask him who made that suit in the photo above.

My gang stopped hanging around SC in the very early 1980's. I went on the road with the show company. After Second Chance closed in 1984 it morphed into the "Nectarine Ballroom" I visited one time after it became the Nectarine and then no more until today...

NECTO main room

The original railings are still here but not much else. The old 3 level club is now a main club with some smaller rooms down stairs. The main club is on the old second floor. Originally when you entered Second Chance you walked straight into the club. Now when you enter you either go upstairs or downstairs.

The (old 3rd level) east end of NECTO has this very cool lounge area.

The west end has a smaller bar and booths. You can still sit at the original rail.

The NECTO bar is beautiful

Main Club to the far right are the stairs to the old green room.

The former huge Second Chance stage is no more...

Looking down the stairs from the old 3rd level

Thanks so much to Scot and Jeremy for the tour... I really enjoyed the time travel back to 1974...

Second Chance photos from Second Chance Website

NECTO WEBSITE

New photos by Retrokimmer

CHRIS KLONDIKE MASUAK'S SATURDAY VIDEO PICKS

2012-01-21T12:32:00.004-05:00

Chris Klondike Masuak

One of my very favorite guitarists is Chris Klondike Masuak of the bands The Hitmen, Screaming Tribesmen,The Raouls, New Christs, The Juke Savages, Klondike's North 40 and of course RADIO BIRDMAN...

Ran into Klondike on Facebook this am and wondered what videos would Chris pick? We chatted a bit and narrowed it down to his favorite Detroit influences... We dig it.... xxoRK

Chris Klondike Masuak's Full Biography
Chrismasuak.com
Radio Birdman

Kimster!

Off'n the top of my head (on youtube)...

1. Stevie Wonder: Signed, Sealed, Delivered

On high rotation in Kamloops, BC when I was a kid. How can you NOT smile n' dance till the kids tell you to "Stop it, Dad! You look STUPID!"

2. Marvin Gaye: Hitchhike

I learned how to play guitar by playing along to Creedence Clearwater's version of " I Heard It Through The Grapevine". Then I discovered "Hitchhike". Every time I hear it it makes me feel so good it brings a lump to my throat! Who's NOT dancin' now???

3. Elvin Jones (w John Coltrane, McCoy Tyner, and Jimmy Garrison): Afro Blue

It's the BEAT!! Johnny Bee Badanjek and Dennis Machinegun Thompson would no doubt agree that Elvin was a major Detroit influence on every drummer of the day!

4. Mitch Ryder and Detroit Rock N Roll

As Niagara would say, "Jeeeezus!"

Enjoy!

Abrazos!

Klondike

Klondike with Niagara on Tour

One of my favorite videos of Klondike and The Hitmen with Niagara...

LOCAL DJ... PETER C CAVANAUGH!

2012-01-21T09:16:00.009-05:00

Rob Tyner with Davison Police

Received a lovely email from Peter C (Cavanaugh) the legendary Disc Jockey from the famous AM Flint station WTAC and many other stations.

Peter C (Cavanaugh)

Hi, Kim!

Prompted by a note referencing your "Dogs" interview, I just visited the Retro:Kimmer website for the first time and was most impressed.

I worked with "The Dogs" many years ago at a venue I operated near Flint called Sherwood Forest.

Keep up the good work!

Rock & RULE!

Peter Cavanaugh
www.wildwednesday.com

Had a chat with Peter C. yesterday. I love talking with DJ's on the phone. They sound the same on air or off! Boom this big voice comes flying at me over the phone line! Peter and I have so much in common. The main difference is that I am still learning about the history of my favorite Michigan Musicians.

Peter was there from the beginning and helped shape the scene that took over America's Radio airwaves beginning in the 1960's.

My first question was about Rob Tyner the lead singer of the MC5. Rob had a famous encounter with the Davison Michigan Police Chief. I had heard several versions but Peter C was there! So I LOVED hearing that story...

Peter is the REAL DEAL... read his book....you'll love it. xRK

Peter was kind enough to send me his book. I stayed up all night and read the entire book... I couldn't stop reading... THANK YOU PETE!

This book grabbed me from the first page...Peter C was really front and center for the Evolution of Rock n Roll. I am so grateful to be involved with keeping my favorite rock music alive and it was so exciting to speak with Peter about what really happened backstage back in the 1960s and forward.

Mark Farner with Grand Funk Railroad

It was really interesting to read Peter's story about the beginning of Mark Farner and Grand Funk Railroad. They were a local band in the Flint area and went from being just a local band to one of the biggest platinum recording bands of all time.

The Stooges

Peter has a great back story on the Stooges playing in Flint and of course Iggy and the Peanut Butter incident....

Keith Moon in Flint

WTAC was the very first station to play The Who. Keith celebrated his 21st (20th) birthday in Flint and had some fun at the Holiday Inn...

Found this video!

Amazon.com Widgets

RETROKIMMER: SONNY VINCENT RECORDING IN BELGIUM!

2012-01-18T17:42:00.008-05:00

Just in.... Hi Kim- The bass parts are done now , this week I will do the singing. Here is the press photo of me and Glen. Crankin' it up!!

Glen Matlock-Sex Pistols and Sonny Vincent- Testors recording in Belgium at Primitive Studios, January 2012. 24 track tape, no digital gear within 20 kilometers.

All Best from Sonny

Rat Scabies (The Damned) Sonny Vincent

****NEW UPDATE****

Hi Kim- How are you? I hope fine and well. I'm here in the studio doing it my way. Here is the latest news for you. Best from Sonny

Album News Flash- The songs, Wild and disturbed, grooving and angular with 2 ballads as well.

The line up-
Sonny Vincent -Testors
Rat Scabies- The Damned
Glen Matlock- Sex Pistols

Yesterday I got an email from Sonny Vincent who is recording in Belgium. It was great to hear what he is up to:

From Sonny....

Hey there! I first saw your website when I did that interview with Goran Polak. Thanks for all the cool stuff you post!

At the moment I am in Brussels, Belgium in a very cool all vintage analogue studio recording a new album. I just finished putting down the basic tracks with the amazing drummer Rat Scabies of the Damned.

We don't have a video (yet) but here is a cool vid from our last tour....

You are welcome SV and we can't wait to hear the new cd when it's finished! Keep us in the loop! xK

RETROKIMMER: DRUMMER AL KING !

2012-01-17T21:39:00.005-05:00

Al King

Hey gang we had a blast today with our pal drummer Al King! Haven't seen Alex for a bit and we had a lot of news to catch up on etc. Al is one of my very favorite young drummers. Lots of my rock pals have all lined up as fans of Al's beats. I met Al after he wrote to ask me a question about Machinegun Thompson. This was early 2009.

After seeing Al's picture I realized he must be the son of an old friend of mine Jim King...from back in the day. Al's uncle is Drummer Rob King of Destroy All Monsters fame and also a really close friend of mine.

Al and I dropped Lesley off at work and then we ran all around the Dollar Store.. A favorite activity of mine! It was so good to connect and we are planning more sessions and gigs to cover together soon. xK

A few years ago I had the pleasure of filming a session in Ann Arbor with Mark Sisto (Visitors) Gary Quackenbush (SRC) Chris Taylor (Blue Snaggletooth) and Al on drums... I shot a few videos and after the session I asked Al to play the intro to an SRC tune...

MITCH RYDER'S CD RELEASE PARTY!

2012-01-17T09:35:00.008-05:00

2009 studio album from the legendary Detroit rocker Mitch Ryder... produced by the marvelous Don Was. Detroit's singer, Mitch Ryder, storms back to the recording scene with this new album of Detroit Rock 'n' Roll. 12 tracks.

I have this cd and there is not one lost track on it.. Of course I am one of Mitch's biggest fans but honestly...

I have played this for friends world wide and they ate it up.. Mitch is legend globally not just in Detroit...

Mitch is totally upfront about his life in rock n roll and the tough decisions and pain that accompany such a wild ride. Tough to read at times and must have been even tougher to write... I highly recommend Mitch's book.

From Tim Hurley:

And where were you last Saturday Night @ 10:23PM? The Hurls was throwing down hard with Mitch Ryder. My buddy Retro Kimmer quipped; "That guy could sing the phone book to me anytime". At 68 years old, he can still wail like Marvin Gaye after drinking 6 Red Bulls and no one in the biz can shake a tambourine like Mitch. Had a great seat right between my old friend Martin Agosta and the guy shooting this video, dead nuts center, just 20' or so from the stage... Good Times. Pure Michigan.

Mitch Ryder's release gig for his new CD "The Promise" (Detroit Ain't Dead Yet) & autobiography "Devils & Blue Dresses" At Callahan's this past Saturday night was the hottest ticket in Detroit. At 68 this man still leads the pack in innovation and killer style.

I had a friend at the gig last Saturday... and maybe, just maybe, you might have seen Kimmer off to the right of stage... with no cameras... incognito...:)

Kimmer and Mitch

Amazon.com Widgets

DETROIT RIOTS 1967 "BLACK DAY IN JULY"

2012-01-15T02:03:00.004-05:00

Detroit Riots July 22, 1967

A friend sent me this video tonight and I had never heard or seen Gordon Lightfoot's "Black Day in July" The creator of this video did an incredible job...I loved it. The music and images are just amazing.... thanks to LL...

Not related to the Detroit Riots...just love this video...

ThE DoGs NEW CD "HYPERSENSITIVE" IS RELEASED!

2012-01-14T19:50:00.007-05:00

Just got a package from LA from The DoG himself.. Loren Molinare. I met Loren via telephone in 2009.. Loren is so kind and with a gentle voice....then he transforms before your eyes....

This was the first time I took photographers to a concert.. Sure escalated from there! Took some of my friends and they were blown away by ThE DoGs...Granted this 3 piece has been together forever and communicate on a level only other DoGs can hear...LOL

With very little fanfare in Ann Arbor 2009.. the DoGs took the stage then tore it apart.... I loved their gig so much...

I really like this cd all the way through... I played it all and then started it over again... First play I listen to what lyrics jump out at me...second play I go after the beats... that is what makes me want to dance.. third play is full tilt.. if the neighbors complain... it's a hit!

My top four tunes are:
What Goes in Quiet Comes Out Loud
Good Time Girls
In on the Out
Nothing Lasts 4 Ever

Meeting the DoGs was such a fortunate moment in time for me.. I met my dear friends Rock Photographer Heather Harris and Detroit Jack producer of DVD set of Doggy Days.. via ThE DoGs and Julie Molinare now a blogger herself... I made her page Greener Designs back in 2009...

Detroit Jack and Retro: Kimmer are cooking up lots of new adventures coming soon... Jack lives in Tokyo so stay tuned for posts from DJ...

By all means...please read this fantastic review of the new CD by Heather Harris..

DETROIT/LA LEGENDS..THE DOGS RELEASE CD REVIEW BY FAST FILM

Kimmer Meets The Dogs and Detroit Jack!

Band Website

ITUNES

YOU TUBE

TUNECORE

DICK WAGNER'S BOOK #1 ON AMAZON..

2012-01-14T17:54:00.008-05:00

THE STARS ALIGN: ALL 5 STAR REVIEWS!!!

DICK WAGNER Releases ‘Not Only Women Bleed’ Book

My friend The Maestro of Rock, Dick Wagner finished his new autobiography with his business partner Susan Michelson. I had the pleasure of chatting with Dick and Susan all along the process of them writing it.

Dick sent me a copy for review and I am in the middle right now..story on that coming soon.

My other stories featuring Dick Wagner's Music.

Here Comes the Mystery Man Dick Wagner
Dick Wagner's Top 10 Influences (I think this story that Dick and I collaborated on is in his book.)
Retrokimmer's New Video with Dick Wagner's Stagger Lee

Dick writes in a most distinctive way and he speaks the same way. You are totally aware that he is a songwriter when he speaks. If that makes sense.. like the phrases he puts together are just perfectly lyrical. Many pretend...but Dick Wagner is the REAL THING... he truly has been there..done that... and got the Tee Shirt! What a guy... much love for Dick and Susie XXOOK

Hot New Releases in Biographies & Memoirs of Entertainers
DICK WAGNER: #1 on Amazon.com!

BUY YOUR COPY BELOW

Amazon.com Widgets

RETRO: KIMMER INTERVIEWS DETROIT JACK!

2012-01-03T22:07:00.013-05:00

BUY YOUR DVD SET HERE

Back in 2009 my very first live gig filming a rock show was ThE DoGs show in Ann Arbor.... I had been communicating with Loren Molinare the lead guitarist from the band and a dear friend. At the same time I received messages via Myspace from Detroit Jack Waldron.. Jack is originally from Detroit and moved to Tokyo, Japan to teach English there.

Tony, Mary K, Kimmer, Jack and Loren

When the DoGs came to play Ann Arbor... Retro: Kimmer appeared with 4 young paparazzi kids and thus began an ongoing thing of RK filming bands and a long term friendship of Retro:Kimmer and her new bloggers, Loren Molinare, Detroit Jack, Mary Kay, Tony Matteucci, and Heather Harris (the DoGs official photographer and my dear friend)

Detroit Jack and I sat down for a long interview early this AM....

RK: First question Detroit Jack is how did you come to know ThE DoGs and how did the obsession with being their #1 fan begin?

DJ: I was once chased through River Rouge Park on Detroit's NW side after a Mic Mac baseball game that was when I seven years old. I guess my obsession started from then, and I've been a Dogs fan ever since . . .

Loren Molinare and Tony Matteucci

RK: When did you first see the DoGs play live?

DJ: I flew to Los Angeles from Tokyo in late 2000, and saw their first reunion at the Bigfoot Lodge. I videotaped the show for release, but, I screwed the sound up, so I flew back again in early 2001 to videotape their second show, which is on the "Doggy Days" DVD, and sounds great!

RK: How long did it take to produce Doggy Style CD Set and then "Doggy Days DVD Set . . . The Dogs Live L.A. To Tokyo"

Doggy Style CD Set

DJ: I started "Doggy Style" in 2000, but because of massive student debt I had, I wasn't able to release it until 2007. "Doggy Days" was actually planned as a single DVD disc to be part of the "Doggy Style" package, but, the tribute package soon grew to two CD discs, so, "Doggy Days" was thus planned as a two DVD disc package, and it took about three years to put together.

RK: Tell me about the new dvd and that process?

DJ: It ROCKS!! Tons of technical processing involved, which will leave people gobsmacked!

RK: Jack you feel very strongly about bringing Detroit rock to Tokyo right? If so why?

DJ: Japanese rockers actually have been clued into Detroit sounds for a long time since the 1940's for sure, and even before the War. That's what puts the Japanese underground way ahead of the rest of Asia, they've been rockin' since the early 1900's on imported American culture.

Yes, I spread the word (here in Japan) about The DoGs to a wider crowd starting from 1998, but bands like Teengenerate were already covering "Slash Your Face" in the early 90's.

RK: The DVD and CD art work are really cool how did the art work evolve?

DJ: I've been collecting 45s forever, and back in the early 90's I started to come across this brilliant artist named Rockin'Jellybean, so, when I came back to Japan in 1998, I found him, and asked if he'd do the "Doggy" series covers.

Jellybean is too cool, and doesn't need my business to survive, as he's world famous now. He just does the covers because he loves The DoGs . . . .

RK: Jack what is your biggest future plan for the DoGs?

DJ: One of my many dreams is to see The Dogs open for Iggy and The Stooges! I feel they are of the same class! I will keep workin' for The DoGs until the day I die!

Thanks Jackisan!!!! See you back in the States soon my friend! xRK

RETROKIMMER: NEW YEAR'S EVE 2011 ROCKED!!!

2012-01-01T20:42:00.026-05:00

Kimmer with the Boss Mustangs Band

Happy New Year!!!

I'd like to take a moment to stop and thank all the fine people (around the globe) that have pitched in this year to help me keep Retro: Kimmer on track! I appreciate you all much more than I can say.... much love...xoRK

Question Mark

Question Mark and the Mysterians are one of my very very favorite bands. I have had the pleasure of seeing them perform several times in recent years. We first saw them play at the Flint Art Institute in 2009. Of course I watched them on TV shows like... Swingin Time, Where the Action Is, and other dance tv shows too.

Question Mark

We first saw Question Mark and the Mysterians play live in Flint.. The Madhatter had two VIP wrist bands and he wrapped one around my arm and off we ran to see their show... Click the link below for that story...

My daughter, artist Lesley Maki and I were invited to the Rock Poster Exhibit by Detroit Artist Carl Lundgren.

At the show Carl Lundgren introduced me to Stanley T. Madhatter... My dear friend who sadly passed away one year ago. I'll be posting a story for Stan tomorrow...

The Mysterians

Bobby Balderama - guitar
Frank Rodriguez - keyboards
Frank Lugo - bass
Robert Martinez Drums

Question Mark and the Mysterians (rendered ? and the Mysterians on the record label) are an American rock and roll band formed in Bay City, Michigan, in 1962.

Guitarist Bobby Balderama

The group is best known for its song "96 Tears", a garage rock classic recorded in 1966 that reached #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and would go on to sell over one million copies and receive a BMI award for over three million airplays.

Robert Martinez

? and the Mysterians were perhaps the first band to be described as punk rock, and also may be the first Latino rock group to have a mainstream hit record in the United States.

The group named itself after the 1957 Japanese science fiction film The Mysterians, in which aliens from the destroyed planet Mysteroid arrive to conquer Earth.

Question Mark

The stage is very small at Goodnight Gracie's and I wondered how ? would dance on that stage...he had no trouble at all..

Kimmer with Gale and Luvern

Q's long time friend and manager Luvern Thompson was at the gig and he gave a mighty fine introduction for the band and it reminded me so much of the Madhatter...Check the first video above to see it from last night...

Hey! want to see Luvern's business card he gave me in 2009...?

I felt the Madhatter's energy with me last night so strongly and I had such a fantastic time just as Stan and I used to do..! (Retrokimmer meets the Madhatter) This year I have plans to get back into shooting bands I love and Detroit Jack is coming back to the states in 2012 so I'll have a crazy pal who loves to go see bands...

I met nearly everyone in that club! There was no other place I would have rather been then at Good Night Gracies..

Many thanks to Claudia Veronica Leo for the invitation and I was completely amazed at the fabulous job she did...The show went off without a hitch, the 3 bands were incredible, and the crowd had a crazy fantastic place to party for the 2012 New Year. WE loved the entire night... Whoo hoo!

The Boss Mustangs Band!

Wow what a band! I was sitting with Jim and Joey Dancer the parents of guitarist Mickey Catalina. Joey is a very proud Mom and she gave me the history of the band and tried to describe how great they were. Of course all the parents I meet are very proud... but Joey was correct on every level. This band blew the doors off Gracies. After their set we wanted to hear more...

The Boss Mustangs:
Dan Cadillac Vocals
Dave Jimenez Guitar
Mickey Catalina Guitar
Henry Jay Bass
J. Edsel Hoover Drums

Dan Cadillac the vocalist of the Boss Mustangs completely caught me by surprise. Off stage Dan appeared to be a mild mannered quiet sort of young guy. But when Dan took off the glasses and jumped onstage he was such an electric performer. The crowd went crazy for Dan... We all just loved their set...

Dan Cadillac

Guest Bass Johnny Hiwatt

Don't you just love their jackets!

Mickey Catalina

The Fuzzrites

Fuzzrites – led by Dick Chiclet on guitar and vocals, Matt Mason on lead vocals, Johnny HiWatt on bass and Derek Lancioni on drums – cranked up their vintage retro-rock instruments and amps to unfurl New Millennium-style vintage strains recalling the Sonics, early Who, even The Faces (with a young Rod Stewart at the mic. Really tight and so high energy!

Our party favors!

Greg Upshur

My pal Greg Upshur the fabulous hunky lead singer of The Seatbelts snuck in late for the show. I was busy filming and some guy's hand comes out of nowhere and about yanked me by the arm across the room... I couldn't see who the man was... You can hear me on the Stand by Me video saying, "HEY I'M TRYIN TO WORK HERE!" LOL!

When I finished filming, I realized it was Greg! We partied a bit and I then at almost 2am I dashed off to my office to work on the story. Handsome, crazy fun guy is Greg...

Lelia and Marlayna

Had the retro-fab fortune to meet Lelia and Marlayna last night. These were two of the most fun gals to party with I have ever had the pleasure to hang with. Lelia helped out shooting photos for me while I shot video.

Lelia has a vintage clothing biz on Ebay...email me if you'd like the store address.

Thanks so much to Lelia and Jim Dancer for helping shoot photos for this story..

All photos (without Kimmer in them) are by Retro: Kimmer

SCOT RICHARD CASE (SRC) DRUMS SALE

2011-12-29T22:34:00.005-05:00

EG Clawson's son Dave is selling his kit

Vintage original SRC set of rogers drums "holiday" 4pcs Kit RARE. Click the link below to check out EG's Kit.... They were sold in October...very cool photos to archive.

EG's Kit on Ebay

GENERAL MOTORS BILLBOARDS

2011-12-29T21:35:00.014-05:00

I heard these are actual billboards in Detroit, Michigan put up by GM. These pictures are definitely cool even if they are not real.... !

HOT NEWS! HOWLING DIABLOS LINKS

2011-12-29T18:59:00.006-05:00

The Howling Diablos Music Hub Story

Hi Kim, here's some news from the Planet of The Howling Diablo's.
Happy New Year. Bee

Gary Graff's Detroit Top 20 List

Raw Power Magazine (FRANCE):

SCOTT MORGAN'S VIDEO PICKS FOR NEW YEARS EVE

2011-12-29T17:02:00.006-05:00

Hubert Sumlin...he did most of his work with Howlin Wolf but he created the classic riff.SM

Hubert Sumlin (November 16, 1931 – December 4, 2011) was an American Chicago blues and electric blues guitarist and singer. He was best known for his celebrated work, from 1955, as guitarist in Howlin' Wolf's band. His singular playing was characterized by "wrenched, shattering bursts of notes, sudden cliff-hanger silences and daring rhythmic suspensions". Sumlin was listed as number 43 in the Rolling Stone 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time.

Sumlin favored a Louis Electric Model HS M12 amplifier and a 1955 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop guitar.[citation needed]

This was the big hit but he has songs covered by BB King and Janis Joplin among others.SM

Howard Tate (August 13, 1939 – December 2, 2011) was an American soul singer and songwriter.

Janis Joplin performed another of Tate's songs, "Get It While You Can", (on Pearl) during this time. Tate's reputation among critics was high. As Robert Christgau wrote in his review of Tate's Verve material, "Tate is a blues-drenched Macon native who had the desire to head north and sounds it every time he gooses a lament with one of the trademark keens that signify the escape he never achieved.

He brought out the best in soul pro Jerry Ragovoy, who made Tate's records jump instead of arranging them into submission, and gave him lyrics with some wit to them besides

Ramsey Lewis did the instrumental version and Dobie Gray the vocal version.SM

Dobie Gray (July 26, 1940 – December 6, 2011) was an American singer and songwriter, whose musical career spanned soul, country, pop and musical theater. His hit records included "The 'In' Crowd" in 1965, and "Drift Away", which was one of the biggest hits of 1973, sold over one million copies, and remains a staple of radio airplay.

RON COOKE AND THE JUNKO PARTNERS

2011-12-29T10:32:00.002-05:00

Detroit Bass Player Ron Cooke

Guest Post from Ron Cooke....

Kim here is a little write up on the video...

Well the tale goes like this... I was asked to bring a musical group to the Louder Than Love show. I had been working with the Dead City Prophets but due prior commitments some of the members would not be available well I found that out a few days before the show.

I had to scramble to get in the Rolodex and call some of my old pal's to give me a hand and find my partners Steve Dansby and Rob King who have always been rock solid and they were up for it . I knew that with these guys I could pull it off .

We got together for about an hour or two before the live show and because of there outrageous talent and that over the years we had jammed together all the drama would be put aside and just a kick out the jams attitude would be the order of the day .

As the video shows with just a couple of hours rehearsal we were able to put together a 3 piece band on a stage and rock the house these are some solid cats and cant thank them enough for showing up and backing me .

The name of the band comes from a title of an old blues song about two old junkies that were knock down loaded Steve and I played the song with the lead singer from the Cactus band Rusty Day a long time musical influence and rough and tough Detroiter. In closing I have to say Keith may have his x-pensive Winos but i got my Junko Partners and that's good enough for me.

HAPPY NEW YEAR WITH QUESTION MARK AND THE MYSTERIANS

2011-12-28T18:35:00.001-05:00

PLEASE COME HOME FOR CHRISTMAS

2011-12-23T07:27:00.006-05:00

Charles Brown

One of my very favorite Christmas tunes.. betcha didn't know this song was written by blues cats... I love all three versions but Don Henley's cover pulls at my heartstrings more than the other two. Cheers! RK

"Please Come Home for Christmas" is a Christmas song, released in 1960, by the American blues singer and pianist Charles Brown.

Hitting Billboard’s Hot 100 chart in December 1961, the tune Brown co-wrote with Gene Redd peaked at position #76. It appeared on the Christmas Singles chart for nine seasons, hitting #1 in 1972.

It includes a number of characteristics of Christmas music, such as multiple references in the lyrics to the Christmas season and Christmas traditions, and the use of a Church bell type sound, created using a piano, at the start of the song. It is sometimes referred to as Bells Will Be Ringing.

The Eagles

In 1978, the Eagles covered and released the song as a single. Their version of the song peaked at #18 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 charts. The lineup features Don Henley (drums/vocals), Glenn Frey (piano, backing vocals), Joe Walsh (guitar, backing vocals), Timothy B. Schmidt (bass/backing vocals), and Don Felder (lead guitar). Originally released as a vinyl 7" single, it was re-released in the nineties as a CD-single.

Jon Bon Jovi

"Please Come Home for Christmas" was also a 1992 cover version by Jon Bon Jovi that was released on the 1992 holiday album, A Very Special Christmas 2. A promo music video that featured supermodel Cindy Crawford was made to accompany that release.

In 1994 the same recording was released as a charity single in Europe, but this time instead of being credited as a solo recording by Jon Bon Jovi it was released under the band name Bon Jovi. The 1994 single release made the Top Ten in both UK and Ireland.

SCOTT MORGAN'S TOP THREE CHRISTMAS VIDEO PICKS!

2011-12-22T23:08:00.003-05:00

Scott Morgan

Phil Spector made his Christmas album in 1963. He was crazy but he knew how to make records...

A famous song. I think it's from World War 2. Good for our troops and their loved ones at home...

My mother and I played this at the Grange Hall when I was just learning guitar. She played the marimba xylophone and she was very good. the audience sang along...

THE DETROITER.COM SUPPORTS DETROIT ART COMMUNITY

2011-12-22T15:16:00.003-05:00

The Detroiter

The Detroiter blog is doing fantastic things to support the Detroit Art Community and they boost Retrokimmer as well.. Check their archives and you'll see my stories along with all the other fantastic events, performers, writers and artists of Detroit too. A mighty fine job RK ♥

Hi Kimmer,

Here's what's new at the Detroiter over the past few days. Starting next Thursday, December 22, this Newsletter will broadcast on Thursdays instead of Sundays in an effort to get our subscribers enough lead time before certain weekend events. Your comments and feedback are always welcome.

Happy Holidays from TheDetroiter.com! - December 22, 2011 11:18 am

Happy Holidays from TheDetroiter.com! As we go into this long holiday weekend, we reflect on this past year and our hopes for TheDetroiter.com. We have hit some of our goals, and there has been a lot of momentum and energy behind TheDetroiter to see it grow and better serve the creative community. As always, we need your help!

This Week at the DIA -- through 12/25 - December 21, 2011 6:56 am

IN THE GALLERIES music Drop-in Workshops Help Us Reach Our Goal free student field trips The Visitation, Rembrandt van Rijn, 1640, oil on cedar panel.

Empty Buildings No Longer Abandoned - December 20, 2011 9:16 am

Detroit has abandoned buildings. How is that for an obvious and empty phrase? There are bad drivers on I-75, Detroit used to have a lot more people, and you were a jerk in high school. While these statements may be true, who cares? Everyone knows that these statements are true, so bringing them up in a conversation makes you dull.

Monday Roundup -- 12/19 - December 19, 2011 8:48 am

Detroit indie rock bank Dale Earnhardt Jr. Jr., keeps making headlines — and they will be on Conan next month!

Detroit Twits -- 12/18 - December 18, 2011 3:40 pm

@seekandwonderin Marty Singer–http://pinterest.com/pin/260505159665361302/ Detroit Institute of Arts is a wonderful place to get lost in art and beauty. Rembrandt exhibit is stunning. DIADetroit Detroit Inst of Arts –Thanks to @Target, 8000 students can look forward to a DIA field trip next year! Apply by Jan. 13, 2012.

DOMANATION BAND AT THE BLIND PIG!

2011-12-22T12:36:00.011-05:00

Had a great night shooting at The Blind Pig in Ann Arbor. I was invited by my friend Fran Doman. Fran manages her sons' band Domanation. Fran and I met some years ago when I was with Stanley T. Madhatter at a Jimmy McCarty gig I think...

Fran and Kimmer

Fran introduced me to two of her sons David and Joe at that show. Last night I finally met her oldest son Victor. I will always remember introducing David to Jim McCarty.

Jim was so nice to David and had photos taken with him. Afterward David looked like he had been shot out of a cannon! That is one of my favorite things about being Retro Kimmer, matching up young musicians with their legendary Detroit heroes of rock. I introduced Dennis "Machinegun" Thompson to a lot of young fans too..

Domanation:
Victor Doman, vocals, rhythm guitar
David Doman, lead guitar
Joe Doman, bass guitar
Brad Rennells, drums

David Doman Lead Guitar

David was such a hot guitar player! Wow I was amazed.. No pick either... It really excites me to see young musicians carrying on the Detroit rock tradition of electrifying guitar licks... He was so good that I have no adjectives left to describe him. Powerful...

Victor Doman guitar and vocals

Victor....OMG girls you have to go see Victor... He has such an exciting stage presence to be sure and combine that with great guitar playing as well.. He and David together were just incredible... Victor is a natural lead singer and as I was watching him I was thinking about what it would be like if he set down that guitar and just grabbed the mic and sang. He really is charismatic when he jokes around and dances a bit too. Handsome guy for sure..

Joe Doman Bass

Joe was rock solid with those bass beats. It was hard for me to get much of him on film as The Blind Pig's stage lighting is very poor. I did watch Joe for awhile and I am a big fan. Their rhythm section was tight as it could be...

Brad Rennells Drums

You know.. I have met a ton of drummers and a lot aspire to be like Machinegun or Johnny Bee but Brad Rennells really reminded me of Dennis Thompson. Most people think Dennis is a pounder but actually he is very smooth...so is Brad. Brad sits behind his kit in a very similar pose as MGT and his hands move with those sticks just like Dennis'.. I sent a video over for MGT to see. I really got into Brad's drumming and that is saying something...with all the great drummers I know I am not easily impressed. Loved it.

Lonnie and his girlfriend

Sat with Lonnie a bit and we talked about music and tons of other topics as well. I really enjoyed meeting them both...

Legendary Wings:

Dan Bennett, tenor & alto saxophone
Tim Haldeman, tenor saxophone
Matt Endahl, keyboard
Ben Rolston, string bass
Nick Collins, drums
Special guest
Justin Walter - trumpet

This band the Legendary wings are U of M students who are involved in the musical department there. They aren't out for publicity they just love to play and to me that's what art and music are all about. I met Ben the String Bass player and chatted with him a bit. It was refreshing to listen to great jazz for a set and also to hear such fantastic horns! Loved it totally...

Thanks to the Domans for inviting me and I had such a great time! XORK

VIDEO PICKS FROM THE I-94 BARMAN!

2011-12-21T09:50:00.005-05:00

The I-94 Bar

This story comes from Down Under in Australia. One of the first big music bloggers I met early on is the I-94 Barman... The Barman has taught me so much about various Australian bands and also American ones as well. Barman really knows his stuff and I am happy to share some of his video picks with you today.... Thanks Barman for your help and support these past 3 years... Check out The I-94 Bar site for tons of interviews, reviews and much more HERE

From the BARMAN:

Funny Now (She Blew It) – Sonny Vincent

This is from Sonny’s “The Good, the Bad, the Ugly” album, the star-studded 2003 effort that should have crossed him over from punk cult figure to high-profile rocker. Sonny’s a product of the Lower East Side scene whose collaborators have included everyone from Scott Morgan and Scott Asheton to Mo Tucker, Wayne Kramer, Captain Sensible and Cheetah Chrome. The clip’s OK but the song’s better. Sonny’s a top bloke and I was stoked to meet and see him live on a trip to Chicago in 2004, where a few beers were consumed.

Ice – Screaming Tribesmen

The Screaming Tribesmen were the pre-eminent Australian underground band from the 1980s who cracked it for a contract with Ryko in the US and an American tour. Their single “I Got A Feeling” topped the KROQ charts in LA in 1988 and “Ice” is from the same “Bones and Flowers” album. This clip is from some Swedish movie and works perfectly. There were many line-ups of the Tribesmen but the most popular and enduring is the one that played on this song. I followed them for years in Sydney and recently managed them on a short Australian reunion tour.

New Race – Radio Birdman

There are bands and there’s Radio Birdman. They stood like the Colossus of Rhodes over the Australian music scene in the ‘80s, well after their original 1978 break-up. This is from their second show at a place called Paddington Town Hall in Sydney. Support on the night came from the Saints, another legendary group. You can deduce from this that their following was fanatical and it perfectly conveys their energy.

WHITE CHRISTMAS BY THE DRIFTERS

2011-12-21T09:29:00.003-05:00

My favorite cover of Irving Berlin's White Christmas was the Clyde McPhatter and the Drifters version. I had this tune on a 45 then 8 track and now mp3. I was totally thrilled when the Home Alone movie used it for Kevin's shaving scene....

The Drifters' 1954 cover of "White Christmas" showcased the talents of lead singer Clyde McPhatter and the bass of Bill Pinkney. Their recording of the song peaked at #2 on Billboard's R&B chart in December 1954, and returned to the same chart in the next two years.

In December 1955, "White Christmas" became the Drifters' first of 34 singles to register in the mainstream Hot 100 chart. For decades, the Drifters' version was primarily heard on R & B radio stations, getting little exposure elsewhere. The song received a boost in the early 1990s, when it was prominently featured in the film Home Alone during a scene in which the lead character Kevin is applying his father's aftershave while mouthing the lyrics.

Radio stations formats as diverse as oldies, adult contemporary, Top 40, and country began playing the Drifters' version. The song was later featured in the film The Santa Clause.

VINCE GUARALDI: THE MUSIC BEHIND CHARLIE BROWN

2011-12-20T23:56:00.007-05:00

It is just not Christmas for me without playing the soundtrack from " A Charlie Brown Christmas". The music of The Vince Guaraldi Trio cheers me to no end. Funny this year a Facebook friend wrote me to tell me this music depressed him. I thought are you kidding? I just love it and thought I would share some background on Vince "Dr Funk" Guaraldi. Merry Christmas Charlie Brown! RK

From the Official Vince Guaraldi Website

Vince Guaraldi's smooth trio compositions -- piano, bass and drums -- perfectly balanced Charlie Brown's kid-sized universe. Sprightly, puckish, and just as swiftly somber and poignant, these gentle jazz riffs established musical trademarks which, to this day, still prompt smiles of recognition.

Vince Guaraldi

They reflected the whimsical personality of a man affectionately known as a "pixie", an image Guaraldi did not discourage. He'd wear funny hats, wild mustaches, and display hairstyles from buzzed crew cuts to rock-star shags.

"A Charlie Brown Christmas" debuted in December 1965, it did more than reunite Schulz, Mendelson, Melendez and Guaraldi, all of whom quickly turned the Peanuts franchise into a television institution.

That first special also shot Guaraldi to greater fame, and he became welded to all subsequent Peanuts shows. Many of his earliest Peanuts tunes -- "Linus and Lucy", "Red Baron" and "Great Pumpkin Waltz", among others -- became signature themes that turned up in later specials.

My favorite Non-Charlie Brown Guaraldi Trio tune

Sadly, Guaraldi died at age 47 on February 6, 1976. The evening before, he had dined at Peanuts producer Lee Mendelson's home, and was reportedly not feeling well, complaining of indigestion-like chest discomfort that his doctor had told him was nothing to worry about.

The following evening, after concluding the first set at Butterfield's Nightclub in Menlo Park, California with his rousing interpretation of "Eleanor Rigby," Guaraldi and drummer Jim Zimmerman returned to the room they were staying in that weekend at the adjacent Red Cottage Inn, to relax before the next set. Zimmerman commented, "He (Vince) was walking across the room and just collapsed. That was it."

His cause of death has been variously described as a heart attack or an aortic aneurysm. Guaraldi had just finished recording the soundtrack for It's Arbor Day, Charlie Brown earlier that afternoon.

VIDEOS PICKS FROM PATTI QUATRO!

2011-12-20T14:00:00.006-05:00

Miss Patti Quatro

My dear pal in Austin, TX... Miss Patti Quatro of the Pleasure Seekers and Fanny and Cradle... graciously agreed to send in some of her very favorite videos for us to see....RK

QuatroRock.com
Patti on Facebook

From Patti:

I have to say my top video I feel changed the face of music videos for all time......the brilliance of Thriller....Michael's video..........nothing was the same after that one. The choreography the feel of it........everything....brilliant and had never been seen before....nothin like it.

Have to get some gals in there......absolutely loved Vogue by Madonna.....thought she had her finger on the pulse and always one step ahead......which I appreciate in production values of videos.

Also loved Bowie's videos.......another one ahead of game......that is what draws me.....production values.......really making it something unusual......a visual treat plus an awesome song.

Queen, Bohemian Rhapsody.........for it's up close and personal balanced brilliantly with great production that brings this masterpiece to life.

Another amazing produced one (radical) was Marilyn Manson's Sweet Dreams.......very radical......but genius.

And for Christmas...Ave Maria at top of Nancy (Quatro) and my lists.......just the essence of xmas to us.

Merry Christmas Miss Patti and thank you so much!! XXOORK

NEW YEAR'S EVE WITH THE DETROIT COBRAS AND JOHNNY BEE BADANJEK!!

2011-12-20T01:08:00.006-05:00

Rachael and Mary

What a hot gig for New Year's Eve! Kimmer loves the Cobras and I hope to be there shooting this show. Also on hand will be Detroit Wheel's legendary drummer Johnny Bee Badanjek!

SPECIAL DETROIT COBRAS NEW YEAR'S EVE NEWS:

New Year's Eve just got a little hotter with the news that THE DETROIT COBRAS will have none other than legendary drummer JOHNNY "BEE" BADANJEK providing a soul burnin' backbeat for the Cobra's NYE return to THE MAGIC STICK in Detroit.

Johnny "Bee" Badanjek with Retro: Kimmer

A master of Motor City drive, Badanjek was a founding member of garage R&B icons Mitch Ryder & the Detroit Wheels. He later co-founded the Rockets, and his big beat has accompanied a host of artists of national, international and interstellar stature.

The Cobras at the Stick on New Year's Eve has become a high octane Detroit tradition, and the presence of Bee promises to multiply the fun quotient. In the words of the poet, "Celebrate good times, come on!"also appearing: K.I.D.S. / AMY GORE AND HER VALENTINES

DIRECTIONS
TICKETS

JULIAN PAVONE GETS HIS SECOND PATENT!

2011-12-20T00:21:00.004-05:00

World's Youngest Pro Drummer Julian Pavone

Exciting news from Julian Pavone! He has his second patent on his very cool drummer's gloves... You go Julian! RK

MACOMB (WWJ) - Guinness World Record Holder Julian Pavone, “The World’s Youngest Professional Drummer” has received a second patent for his innovative drum gloves.

Julian’s Drum Gloves are form-fitting gloves with interchangeable drumstick tips on the four finger extensions, on the palm side of the glove. The glove allows the percussionist to utilize their hands in creating unique rhythms and sound effects not typically made due to the limitations of a traditional drumstick. Julian was represented by Todd Pleiness, an intellectual property attorney from Royal Oak, Michigan.

Read the Full Story HERE

We absolutely adore Julian...

Merry Christmas to the entire Pavone Family with much love xxooK

CHEF/ENTREPRENEUR BOGDON VASQUAF

2011-12-19T18:52:00.012-05:00

Bogdon Vasquaf

This past weekend I finally got to meet Chef Bogdon Vasquaf! What a multi talented man! A real charmer as well... Love a man that can cook don't you?

Bogdon's Cherries Jubilee

Chef Bog came out to the Modfather Mark Boone's Christmas Show, Mods in Toyland. Bog demoed how to make Cherries Jubilee. Lovely and so very yummy.

video by Jason Buchanan

Bog's set up station

Bogdon is also a fantastic musician and was with the Cadillac Kidz back in the day. We had the great fortune to see Bog play harmonica all night too. I was fascinated with this 6 Harmonicas on a wheel that he brought with him.

Bogdon's 6 Harmonicas on a wheel... so cool!

Bogdon and my dear friend Dee Gilbert

Bogdon and his upright Box Bass

Bog is quite famous for inventing the cardboard box Bass... He has been featured on the History Channel and Talk Soup.. What a great guy and we hope to work with him again soon... May just show up at his home for dinner!! YAY

Introducing the World's First Upright Bass made exclusively from cardboard!

The Bogdon Box Bass represents a reduction of technology and the simplification of needs.

By demonstrating that a quality sound can be achieved by using unconventional material components at an extremely low cost, a cardboard bass guitar places the least demand on resource technology and encourages people to shift their preconceptions about the 'typical novice instrument'.

Cardboard is not a traditional product material, however the introduction of innovative bonding, cutting and structural techniques has provided the opportunity to consider this lightweight and recyclable material in a more creative fashion. Read more on Bogdon's Website

ODIN SARIC 7 YEAR OLD SK8 BOARDER!!!!

2011-12-19T18:24:00.005-05:00

The Saric Family

My friend Bart Saric a great filmaker of Skinned Alive and Sk8boarding entrepreneur sent me this fantastic film of his young son Odin's progress into the sk8 board world...

Skater Made Skateboards features Odin Saric. The Beginning of a 2nd generation skateboarders roots. Starring in a premiere profile short film called "BORN IN".

This is the 7th installment in the skater series. A seven year piece that offers a unique perspective on skating and parenting.

See the full length and highly anticipated 'SKATER MADE" DVD "Trust The Way".

For more info. go to:

Skater Made Website

Skater Made on Facebook

DENIZ TEK HAND PAINTED RADIOBIRDMAN TILES

2011-12-18T17:13:00.002-05:00

Just got my very own Deniz Tek Tile! I am the first one in the USA to own one... Merry Christmas to Kimmer! Thanks Deniz and Anne for thinking of me... xoRK

From Deniz:

Last chance this year for the hand painted Radio Birdman logo tiles ... we wont be able to fill orders after this coming week until into the new year. If interested, contact hiwatt01@gmail.com. Hope all of you have a fun and peaceful holiday season. - Deniz

MODS IN TOYLAND SHOW...

2011-12-18T10:47:00.005-05:00

Had big Christmas fun in Ypsilanti at the Tap Room last night until the wee hours at the Mods in Toyland Show produced by The Modfather Mark Boone and my friend Dee Gilbert... It was really fun and I got to see a lot of old friends and new ones as well...

Lori and Jace Buchanan

Singer Lisa Szczesny

Enjoyed seeing Lisa sing with the Modfather and it really was a festive night... Thanks Mark, Dee, Jace and Lisa.... Happy Holidays!!

SMOKEY ROBINSON.... SANTA CLAUS IS COMING TO TOWN!

2011-12-18T10:31:00.003-05:00

I first this tune in one of Tim Allen's Santa Clause films and I feel in love with it...

The Miracles (known from 1965 to 1972 as Smokey Robinson And Thttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifhe Miracles) are an R&B/soul group from Detroit, Michigan, United States notable as the first successful group act for Berry Gordy’s motown Records.

The Miracles went on to become one of Motown’s signature acts of the 1960s, during which time their original lead singer and founding member Smokey Robinson became one of the most successful songwriters and record producers of all time.

The hit songs “Do It Baby” and Love Machine (written by Billy Griffin & Pete Moore) were performed by Billy Griffin as the lead singer after the departure of Smokey Robinson for 4 years.

THE RAW DOGS' CD RELEASE PARTY!!

2011-12-12T21:36:00.001-05:00

Dean Erik and his Dad Guitarist Glenn Dean

This past Friday night I had the enjoyment of checking out my brother's son Dean Erik Karas play guitar live at Smalls in Hamtramck, MI. His band The Raw Dogs were celebrating their first CD release.

They were really smokin...what a 'f**kin treat to see the second generation of the Motor City Bad Boys in action!!

THE RAW DOGS

These young guitar players were on the money... unfortunately drummer Tylor Good was not on a riser because of the small venue. We couldn't get a decent photo of him... But he was whammin and bammin... he had his shit together... he was on time... on everything....

Dean Erik

1998 Washburn Dimeback

Kyle Davis with his Italia Mondial

Louie Badalament on Fender "P Bass"

Free Download
Raw Dogs "Up All Night"

Glenn Dean, Rsj and Sheila K

CD is not yet for sale but you can email Dean Erik for more info on The Raw Dogs here

Kurt Karas, Tattoo Artist Bre Alex, and Rsj

The Raw Dogs are playing tomorrow Dec 13 at PJ's Lager House and on December 23 at Double OO Pub of Redford Michigan

Catch you next year when I get back from Texas in the Spring... I will be recording/playing in Austin and Brownsville... stay tuned... Rsj

Photos and video: Retrokimmer.com

HOLIDAY PARTY AT STAN AND PATTY'S !!!!

2011-12-12T15:19:00.024-05:00

Finally got to meet my new friend Patricia Izzo the fantastic artist/photographer in residence in the Wyandotte, MI art community. Patty invited me to her annual Holiday party at Stan and Patty's... It was a private party but they allowed Kimmer in with my cameras....

Patty's gorgeous Christmas tree

Painting by George Graveldinger

One of Patty's fabulous guests rooms

I saw a very cool envelope with Patty written on it and a cool slipper near it. I thought it would make a nice signature photo.

Wow did Stan and Patty go all out for the Wyandotte Holidays! Such great food, desserts and drinks too... The attedees were in such a festive mood.. I knew a few names already but if a name is missing I will correct that later today.

Party Food

Loved the Shrimp curry and the meatballs were to die for!!! YUM! This was better than any restaurant food I have ever seen...

Patron of the arts Jim Osmer

Artists and Gallery owners

Painting by George Graveldinger

Painter George Graveldinger

I attended this very cool party with Ricardo Antonio Santiago of NYC but originally from Wyandotte. His Dad is my friend Rikki St James. Ricky and I didn't plan to stay long at the party but ended up having such a great time! The first artist we met was George. We both totally were thrilled to hook up with George... he is such a cool man!

Absinthe

Ricky and I both had Absinthe for the first time... It tasted quite good.... I only had 2 shots of it where I think Ricky had more :).... You take a shot glass, add a sugar cube, fill it 3/4 with absinthe and 1/4 water. It has a long history which you can read HERE

Another cool painting at Patty's

I just loved the office... I think it had two computer's in it and all kinds of goodies... the entire home was just beautiful... thank you so much for inviting me Patty!!!

Animatronic Santa with Ricky

The most hysterical part of the night was at the beginning.... Ricky and I were walking down the street to find the party... Here I spy a life size Santa waving at us.... I said to Ricky... "Go sit on Santa!" Ricky did just that and the big Santa started to collapse. OMG

Ricky jumped to his feet and put Santa back together and we ran off down the sidewalk.... Ricky saying.... "Walk fast walk fast walk fast...." Happy Holidays!!

RIKKI ST JAMES AT THE POT OF GOLD INTERNET SWEEPSTAKES

2011-12-12T12:00:00.001-05:00

Rikki St James

Here is a guest post from Rikki St James featuring a new internet sweepstakes venue in Wyandotte. We visited this business last weekend and it is so cool...RK

Now from Rsj...

Now we have "Pot of Gold" Internet Sweepstakes that pays you Dollars$$

Wyandotte Mich...."Just like I pictured it" "Bars, Cars..Motorcycles and everything on the streets.." Art Galleries and The River Flowing all so sweet.........

Rsj and Jerry (center and right)

Jerry, the owner has been a Wyandotte resident and a pillar of the community for quite a few years....I would have to mention Jerry is a great chef as well... I've had a savory New York Strip grilled on many occasions, not to mention his pizza....Yeow....

Jerry gave up his liquor license, in order to change the entertainment format ...But there is still food, plenty of fun and plenty to do...all in walking distance..........

Photos: Retrokimmer.com

GIOVANNI GAMBINO: PRINCE OF OMERTA

2011-12-08T14:31:00.012-05:00

This book written by my friend Giovanni Gambino is going to be a huge hit! This is such an exciting book! Take a look at the description from Amazon below... Prince of Omerta is available for instant Kindle download... just click HERE

Screenwriter/Actor/Author Giovanni Gambino

Johnny Valenti is a hit man as well as a man committed to ethics. True, the standard he abides by is somewhat different from traditional ethics, yet he is a man of principle.

His uncompromising commitment is to omertá – the code of silence. He believes when you are involved in murder, arson, extortion, and other such crimes, you keep your mouth shut, no matter what.

So living up to his beliefs, Valenti takes the rap for a murder he did not commit, and serves eighteen years in prison. When he gets out, using his professional skills, he takes care of the rat that framed him.

Finally free, he tries being a law abiding citizen but he simply can’t cut it. He’s had very little training, indeed none, on the right side of the law. Thus, he returns to his roots, working for a powerful organized crime family led by the brutal boss of bosses. He performs well, getting excellent job performance reviews, but as in most jobs, office politics is killing him – so to speak – and he clashes with the boss.

Given his skills as one of the best in the murder-for-hire business, he smells that he may be the target of the boss of bosses, but Valenti turns the table on him. With the help of a mole in a special U.S. federal crime fighting unit, he outwits the boss, and devises an ingenious plan that assures he can live with his true love in anonymity and peace.

He disappears leaving no forwarding address.

Wise Move on Facebook

Giovanni on Twitter

Prince of Omerta on Google Plus

Giovanni Gambino's WNBC Story

DETROIT THEN AND NOW....

2011-11-30T23:19:00.002-05:00

DETROIT MAFIA: GIOVANNI VITALE

2011-11-30T20:26:00.007-05:00

Giovanni "John" Vitale (1869-1920) was a boss of the Detroit Crime Family.

Burial:
Mount Olivet Cemetery
Detroit
Wayne County

Michigan, USA

Plot: Section: 53, Tier: 7, Grave Lot: 168

Best recognized as the leader of one of two factions which battled mercilessly for control of Detroit's underworld just after the advent of prohibition, John Vitale's career actually began more than a decade before the outbreak of the bloodiest chapter in the history of the motor city mafia.

Vitale entered the liquor business during the first decade of the 20th century as a partner of Sam Cipriano, Joseph Stefano and a trio of grocer brothers from Wyandotte by the name of Gianolla. The newly formed liquor combine soon found itself competing with the most powerful Italian criminal combine in the Detroit area headed by Salvatore and Vito Adamo.

Giovanni Vitale

Vitale and his partners became the prime competitors for the Adamo's who in an effort to maintain a distinct advantage over the upstart liquor dealers began giving away free ice with deliveries of their beer and other alcoholic beverages. Unable "at the time," to compete with the deep pockets of the Adamos, Tony and Sam Gianolla devised a plan to rid themselves of the only thing standing between them and total dominance of not only the liquor market but all other criminal fields in the Italian colony of Detroit.

While the Adamo and Gianolla brothers fought an old world feud, Vitale, Cipriano and Stefano continued to conduct their business from a store on Rivard and Congress streets. With the elimination of the Adamo brothers and the ascent of Sam and Tony Gianolla to the top of the Italian criminal community, John Vitale concentrated on building a fortune for his lucrative and expanding liquor business. Read More on Mafia Wiki

Mafia Nick Names

Giovanni Vitale was a former Organized Crime figure and once a boss of one of Detroit's first Mafia families. He was born in Cisini, Sicily on Saturday June the 24th 1876. In 1903 he emigrated to Detroit USA, then four years later he returned to Sicily and afterwards back to Detroit permanently in 1910. He was best recognized as the leader of one two factions which battled mercilessly for control of the criminal underworld of Detroit just after the introduction of Prohibition.

His career actually started more than a decade before the outbreak of what would be known as the bloodiest chapter in the history of the Mafia in Detroit. He entered the liquor business during the first decade of the first century as a partner of Salvatore (Sam) Cipriano; Joseph Stefano and a three brothers by the name of Giannola.

The newly formed liquor combine soon found itself competing with the most powerful Italian organized crime faction in Detroit, under the control of Salvatore and Vito Adamo. Vitale and his partners were the prime competitors to the Adamos, who in an effort to maintain a distinct advantage over their liquor business started giving away free ice with all deliveries of their own beer and other alcoholic drinks, but were still unable at that time to compete with the deep pockets of the Adamos So Antonino and

Salvatore Giannola devised a plan to do away with the Adamos as they were standing between them and total dominance of not only the liquor market but also other rackets in the Italian section of Detroit. Whilst the Giannolas and the Adamos fought a long feud, Giovanni Vitale, Salvatore Cipriano, and Giuseppe (Joseph) Stefano* continued to conduct their business from a store on Rivard and Congress Streets, Detroit.

Eventually the Adamo brothers were eliminated and Vitale Cipriano and Stefano ascended to the apex of the Italian organized crime community. Giovanni concentrated all his efforts on building a vast fortune for his lucrative and fast expanding liquor business. After a certain time the Giannolas started to grow in power and Vitale was counted upon as one of their most important lieutenants.

The partnership between them was to continue for a short time, but this was soon changed when a business dispute between the Giannolas and Pietro Bosco ended with Bosco's death, at the hand of Giannola gunmen. This murder sparked ill feelings between Vitale and the Giannola brothers and eventually triggered off the Giannola/Vitale Gang War.

SCOTT BATEY NAMED A TOP LAWYER IN METRO DETROIT!

2011-11-30T14:57:00.005-05:00

Scott Batey

My friend and guest rock music writer Attorney Scott Batey has been named one of the top attorneys in Metro Detroit for Labor and Employment Law, Personal Injury and Automobile Accidents.

Top Lawyers 2012

For their list, DBusiness magazine polled more than 21,000 attorneys in Oakland, Macomb, Wayne, Washtenaw, and Livingston counties among 51 specialized practice areas. The lawyers were asked to nominate up to three attorneys in a given area of law.

If you need expert legal advice please call 248-540-6800/email SBATEY@BATEYLAW.COM

Scott Batey
30200 Telegraph Road
Suite 400
Bingham Farms, MI
248-540-6800

DETROIT JACK'S DOGGY DAYS DVD SET

2011-11-30T10:56:00.005-05:00

Doggy Days DVD set

My pal Detroit Jack just sent me a copy of his much anticipated film/DVD set " Doggy Days Live LA to Tokyo... Features video of my friends The DoGs playing live. I watched the entire DVD and LOVED it!

The DoGs

Originally arising out of the Detroit rock revolution that erupted with THE STOOGES and MC5, then migrating to LA in the late 70's, THE DOGS have influenced punk while treading right along with the scene. During the 70's they opened for punk and hard rock notables including MC5, TELEVISION, THE DICTATORS, KISS and AC/DC!

THE DOGS have continued to play shows throughout the decades, even releasing new material on the Dionysus label in 2003. Most recently the band has been celebrated with an international tribute album and a new DVD set produced by Detroit Jack.

Members:
Loren Molinare - Guitar, Vocals
Mary Kay- Bass, Vocals
Tony Matteucci - Drums

Write a comment...

From Detroit Jack

The day has finally arrived for all you fans of The Dogs!! This Lansing/Detroit band is celebrating it's 40th Anniversary of kickin' out the jams Doggy Style with the release of this DVD x 2 disc set. 5 hours of footage/interview/poster & photo history, liner notes by Wayne Kramer and Jeff Dahl, and much much more!

If you are unfamiliar with The Dogs, then you're in for a lucky Detroit rock surprise!! I have a FAN page for The Dogs that you can find on my WALL. There is a complete Wiki history of The Dogs there.

You can order your copy of "Doggy Days . . . The Dogs Live L.A. To Tokyo" DVD x 2 disc set from Pacifiction. It's a secure online site for Paypal in U.S. dollars. Thanks to all the Dogs fan, and stay tuned next year for a new Dogs release, and possible Japan tour!

Liner Notes by Wayne Kramer of the MC5

Get your copy of Detroit Jack's Doggy Days DVD

Doggy Style CD

Future Now Records

Detroit Jack's Blog (created by Kimmer)

MIKE McCOURT MEMORIAL CONCERT

2011-11-30T09:05:00.002-05:00

Hey Everybody,
Our friend and fellow musician, music store owner Mike McCourt lost his battle with cancer this year and we all said when the time was right we'd get together to celebrate his life the only way we know how.

So, we're getting together at Callahan's with Stewart Franke, Honky Dory, Funhouse, Tea Bag and of course, my band SEE Dick RUN to raise a little dough for Mike's wife and kids just before the holidays.

See You There.
Jim Edwards

VIDEO PICKS FROM LOREN DoG OF THE DoGs!

2011-11-30T08:20:00.004-05:00

Loren Tony and Mary (ThE DoGs) photo Heather Harris

THE DOGS

Members:
Loren Molinare - Guitar, Vocals
Mary Kay- Bass, Vocals
Tony Matteucci - Drums

From Loren Molinare:

Hi Kim,

Thanks for thinking of me to pick some videos. This was fun . I will check in with you from the UK...

1. MC-5 Looking at You

Always loved this song from the Back in the USA LP and this performance backs up what I felt and heard back in 1970 and made me believe in the power in rock and roll from this earth-shattering band.

2. Smokey Robinson and the Miracles- You really got a hold on Me

This song holds a special place in my heart, one of the Motown classics, even though The Beatles version is really cool. The Miracles version reminds of my 7th grade crush on a girl named Diane who broke my heart.

3. The Kinks-Till the end of the Day!

Ah yes to be in 8th grade again and living in Michigan and looking out the window daydreaming about Ray Davies and the Kinks and wanting to go to the UK. The Kinks more than the Beatles made me want to pick up and guitar and rebel against my parents.

Ray Davies is one of the most profile and timeless writers from the mid 60’s British invasion.

Let it rock
Loren

MICHAEL JACKSON DOCTOR GOING TO JAIL

2011-11-29T14:26:00.003-05:00

Michael Jackson

Convicted of involuntary manslaughter in the death of Michael Jackson, Dr. Conrad Murray was sentenced to four years imprisonment. Doubtful if he spends 2 years... It is hard to believe this "doctor" got such a slap on the wrist...

Complete Coverage of the Conrad Murray Trial

JAMBANG: CONNECTING

2011-11-29T09:18:00.004-05:00

Physical copies available, email Matthew.paneth@gmail.com

JAMBANG, the audio/visual experience that is the latest project in the Greg Ginn catalog of sound, offers listeners a hybrid of electronic and organic instrumentation. This latest great features Ginn on guitar and manning the electronic sections, Bobby Bancalari (mandolin), Steve DeLollis (drums), and is joined by A/V artist Joey Keeton.

Their debut release, CONNECTING, is the result of blending musicians and artists of varying genres and influences, united only by the common thread of their love of jambands and improvisation.

JAMBANG MUSIC ON FACEBOOK

DOWNLOADS

DENIZ TEK: NEW RADIO BIRDMAN LOGO ART TILES

2011-11-25T11:36:00.005-05:00

Deniz Tek painting RB logo tiles

Porcelain tiles individually hand painted and signed by the Legendary Guitarist Deniz Tek of the Radio Birdman logo he designed in the mid-70s.

The tiles are 10x10cm ... $30 each + shipping ( US or Australian ) available directly from Deniz via hiwatt01@gmail.com.

The paint is enamel glaze, quite hard, so they can be used as coasters! So, Christmas special: 4 tiles for $100.

Shown for the first time at Deniz's art opening at the Hand of Law Gallery in Sydney on Nov.5th, they sold like hot cakes!

Retro: Kimmer's Tile is en route as we type!!! can't wait to see it!

Photos by Anne Laurent

THANKSGIVING AT LOST LAKE WOODS

2011-11-24T23:46:00.019-05:00

Lost Lake Woods Lincoln Michigan

Lesley and I spent Thanksgiving with my parents at their beautiful home in the Lost Lake Woods resort just north of Lincoln Michigan... This town is just 20 miles south of Alpena. This is a hunting/sports community that is about 85 years old. I thought it was much older but found a sign today that confirmed 85 years.

Badger Lake

There a few homes on this lake and a small beach... Lesley liked it a lot as a little girl... They have so many parties and picnics at the pavilion.

Lost Lake Wood's Pavilion

Chipmunk Trail (my parents Street)

The Lost Lake Woods Clubhouse

This is a beautiful hotel and restaurant. They have a lodge and game room too. It really is a lovely place to eat dinner or lunch. We have had Thanksgiving dinner here many times too. This year Nanna made dinner which of course is the BEST!!!!

Yummy!

Just before dinner Lesley and I took a spin out to Lake Huron at Harrisville, Michigan to shoot photos for my readers around the globe. This area is just so gorgeous and it was so warm and sunny today. I will post a few photos here and the rest on my Facebook pages so you can see the entire shoot HERE

Lake Huron (Harrisville MI)

The Harrisville Marina of Refuge

Gorgeous Thanksgiving Day 2011

My parent's rustic home is beautiful...

My Mom's very cool bear coffee table

Close up of Bear Table

We are so thankful for our family and many many friends! Thank you all!

With Much Love from Kimmer and Lesley....

Special thanks to Mom and Doug... xxoK

FREEING JOHN SINCLAIR: ANN ARBOR LIBRARY CELEBRATION

2011-11-24T12:19:00.004-05:00

Just got new info on the upcoming events for the Ann Arbor District Library for December 2011. Come out and meet John Sinclair and lots of other folks from this time frame. I will be at the Ark to see John's band and Commander Cody... Come on out to Ann Arbor!

Read More..... The Day the Legends Came to Town

Freeing John Sinclair Ann Arbor Library site

SCOTT MORGAN AND THE RATIONALS: ANN ARBOR NEWS 1966

2011-11-24T12:05:00.005-05:00

Bill Figg, Scott Morgan, Steve Correll, Terry Trabandt

Photos sent to RK by Amy at the Ann Arbor District Library.... Thank You!

Scott Morgan's Story on the Rationals Van...

yeah kim. here is the story. our manager jeep holland was the world's worst driver. we thought we would die at any second. one day i demanded that he pull over now! he was taking my brother david's band to lansing. you need to remember david was my little brother. he's the guy i used to hold his hand and walk him across the street. not so little any more.

jeep passed someone on the freeway and promptly lost control. he rolled the van three times and threw himself, david, and all their gear onto the the side of the road. i don't know how but they both survived.

EARLY BEATLES DOCUMENTARY PARTS 1-3

2011-11-22T20:17:00.004-05:00

The Early Beatles

The Early Beatles Album
(One of my very favorite) was released:

March 22, 1965

Side 1
Love Me Do
Twist And Shout
Anna (Go To Him)
Chains
Boys
Ask Me Why

Side 2
Please Please Me
P.S. I Love You
Baby, It's You
A Taste Of Honey
Do You Want To Know A Secret

Here is a 3 part documentary on the Early Beatles that I found entertaining so I thought my readers would enjoy them too...

Amazon.com Widgets

THE JFK ASSASSINATION: 48 YEARS AGO TODAY

2011-11-22T13:55:00.006-05:00

It has been 48 years since President John F Kennedy was killed. I was in the second grade. My school was just a 3 room school house. The principal came room to room and the lead us to our school buses. We had 1 hour before school was over so we were happy to leave early. We had no idea why we were being sent home.... Will never forget that day.

I found an article that is very good about the JFK Assassination and on this 48th anniversary of that horrific day... I think this author's insight is pretty good. RK

LBJ being swore in with Jackie in her blood stained suit

The Kennedy
Assassination
By John McAdams
© 1995-2010

**"He didn't even have the satisfaction of being killed for civil rights . . . . It's — it had to be some silly little Communist." — Jackie Kennedy, on hearing that a leftist had been arrested for her husband's murder.**

It's the most controversial case in modern American history. Did Lee Harvey Oswald kill John Kennedy by himself, or did a conspiracy do it? And if a conspiracy did it, did the conspiracy include Oswald?

If you are like most Americans, you believe that a conspiracy killed Kennedy. And if you are like most Americans, you have heard a vast number of bogus factoids about the case.

This web site is dedicated to debunking the mass of misinformation and disinformation surrounding the murder of JFK. If you are believer in Oswald as a lone gunman, you are likely to enjoy this web site, since most of that misinformation and disinformation has come from conspiracists. But if you are a sophisticated conspiracist, you likely understand that the mass of silly nonsense in conspiracy books and documentaries does no service to the cause of truth in the assassination, and simply buries the "case for conspiracy" under layers of bunk.

Regardless of what you believe, several web sites, mostly conspiracy-oriented are worth checking out. And you may also want to check out my list of recommended books on the assassination.

What sort of evidence is there?

READ JOHN McADAMS FULL STORY

HEATHER HARRIS: NIAGARA DESTROY ALL MONSTERS RETROSPECTIVE

2011-11-21T00:47:00.010-05:00

Niagara Detroit

Guest Post by Photographer Heather Harris: Read Her Story Here

See Story Featuring DAM DRUMMER ROB KING...

From November 19, 2011 through Jan. 7, 2011, Prism Gallery presents RETURN OF THE REPRESSED: DESTROY ALL MONSTERS presents a retrospective of Destroy All Monsters, the art collective who became the beloved Detroit band (which also boasted Ron Asheton of The Stooges and Mike Davis of the MC5.)

Niagara

The 1973-77 art work of Niagara, Jim Shaw, Cary Loren and Mike Kelley is featured in a show curated by the latter and Dan Nadel, with hundreds of fascinating offerings influenced by Japanese monster films, dada assemblage, xerography and pop art which in turn influenced the oncoming onslaught of punk rock graphics.

The ever intriguing and beautiful Niagara seemed especially ebullient at the well-attended art opening on the 19th,seen here photographed by Heather Harris who commented, "Jack Black was there but I was enjoying the show too much to go headhunting."

Read More on RK

Destroy All Monsters Featuring Guest Writer Niagara Detroit
Detroit's Killer Artist: Niagara Detroit
Niagara on Tour with The Hitmen

Biography on the Miller twins with DAM

Laurence

DESTROY ALL MONSTERS as the Miller Brothers experienced it was an odd merging of two local Ann Arbor bands. In the spring of 1977, original founders of DAM, Cary Loren and Niagara, began dropping in on EMPOOL rehearsals and request we work on their own songs -- garage punk.

NOTE: EMPOOL was a psychedelic free improvisation band I lead. Eventually this imposition took hold and a loose knit hybrid group began to form. My use of various FX pedals gave me the slightly embarrassing tag as"space guitar", which soon developed into straight-ahead rhythm guitar as Cary left the group -- having left due to personal differences -- in summer 1977.

Ben’s free-form alto sax playing, also run thru various electronics, became more traditional as well. By the time Cary left, both Michael Davis and Ron Asheton had joined the band, honing a heavier metal-punk sound. We began opening up for the likes of Pere Ubu, The Ramones, and Devo to name a few.

Essentially it was one big party. In fact, the difference between a rehearsal and a party was marginal. Due to creative differences, Ben and I chose to leave the band shortly after completing DAM's second single in October 1978.

There were two other songs recorded during that last session, ones both Ben and I penned, which remain in “the can” to this day. BROKEN MIRRORS and TAKEN FOR GRANITE. Ben and I were asked back into the band in 1983 for two reunion shows with the group at Second Chance, in Ann Arbor. It didn't stick for us, and that was it. Laurence Miller

DETROIT RUMRUNNERS, WYANDOTTE AND MORE

2011-11-20T16:14:00.017-05:00

RK at one of the Wyandotte Cemeterys

Wyandotte, MI holds the Guinness World Record for having the most speakeasys/bars/taverns and churches thus bringing in many theatrical characters as the Three Stooges and The Marx Brothers. The Wyandotte Theater is the venue where they came to perform back in the day.

Wyandotte Theater

Metal Sculpture of the Crucifix

There is a cemetery in Wyandotte that is known to have members of the Purple Gang and assorted victims of the prohibition era buried there. Took a little trip to see this cemetery today and we found it difficult to navigate with the map we had from the local Museum... So I shot photos of things that we found interesting..

The Marx Family

The Marx family owned the big brewery in town and were innovative enough to conceive (curved) oval glass for bay windows as well as commercial buildings.

The Gianolla-Adamo War

Between 1912-13, the Gianolla brothers took over the Wyandotte area rackets gang starting a feud with Wyandotte Mafia boss Vito Adamo. The Gianolla brothers felt they had secured victory in Wyandotte after a series of attacks on the Adamo gang, which left several Adamo gang members dead. Adamo took refuge in Detroit and aligned himself with Mafia leader Pietro Mirabile, while the Gianolla's set their sites on the Little Italy rackets, mainly the illicit beer trade.

The Adamo's had deep pockets and were able to fend off the Gianolla's first attempts to take over the beer rackets by giving away free ice with their deliveries. Next the Adamo gang retaliated leaving two Gianolla gang members William Catalano and John Jervaso dead in April 1913.

These killings were followed by a string of killings and arrests of both sides. Even with the involvement of the authorities the feud continued as the main objective of the Gianolla brothers was the elimination of the Adamo brothers.

The beatings, stabbings and shootings stopped temporarily when Vito Adamo and two associates were put on trial for the August 1913 murder of Tony Gianolla's top aide Carlo Callego. Shortly thereafter an attempt was made on the life of Tony Gianolla himself.

More than likely the attempt on Tony Gianolla's life demonstrated the urgency the Gianolla's felt in regards to the elimination of the Adamo brothers. In the latter part of 1913 the Gianolla's struck indirectly at the Adamo's with the elimination of their associate and adviser Ferdinand Palma, a former Detroit detective turned bank owner and racketeer. The era of the Adamo brothers ended in November 1913 when both Vito, 34 and Sam Adamo, 32, were gunned down by shooters near their home.

The Gianolla gang would now reign supreme for roughly the next 4–5 years as the dominant Italian crime group in Detroit. The Gianolla gang controlled the most lucrative rackets within Detroit's Italian underworld and the gang would spawn the career of some of the most notable crime figures in Detroit history.

Top members of the gang who would go on to lead the Detroit Mafia and rule the local underworld included John Vitale, Salvatore Catalanotte, Angelo Meli, William Tocco, Joseph Zerilli, Leonardo "Black Leo" Cellura, Joseph Zerilli, Angelo Polizzi and a host of other well known area mafiosi. Tony Gianolla remained the top leader of the gang running his operations from his base in Wyandotte. Over the years his younger brother Sam had secured his reputation as a tough enforcer who led a group of killers, while Gaetano remained the adviser of the group.

Alex Gee's grave

Rsj with the map...

An excerpt for The Purples Book:

CHAPTER ONE

“So how did it start,” they all want to know. Then, before you can answer: “Didn’t it all start at the Cream of Michigan? On that night when the ghost of Joe Bernstein walked into the diner?”

As a matter of fact, no. If you want the truth, it started four years earlier, during the Palmer Raids. Of course, people don’t want to hear about things they’d rather forget. What they want is a ghost yarn or a gangster tale, and if they can get both at the same time, even better.

So they always start with that night at the diner—the night I strolled, big as life, through the front door of “the Crime,” as it was known back then. It was quite a moment, I’ll admit: The place was filled with forty of the mouthiest guys you’d ever want to meet, yet they all went dead quiet soon as I entered. Art Goldman actually let out a tiny squeak, like a mouse. He told me later that the moment he saw me, he pictured being eaten alive and that caused the squeak.

The amazing thing was that nobody reached for anything. The only motion came from a guy named Meltzer, who had been constructing an igloo out of sugar cubes on one of the tabletops (yes, this is the kind of productive work that was done back then). When he saw me, Meltzer’s hands went limp and crashed down on his igloo, spilling cubes onto the floor.

Canadian inspectors wait at the Windsor liquor docks in 1928. The Eastside Mob operated a lucrative rum-running operation on the Detroit River during Prohibition.

The Crosstown Mob Wars of 1930-31

Presiding over this shaky peace arrangement was a Giannola gunman named Salvatore "Sam" Catalonotte. Catalonotte was one of the few men who was both respected and well liked among the competing Mafia groups. His charismatic personality and diplomatic ability enabled Catalonotte to emerge from the Giannola/Vitale gang war as the supreme leader of the Detroit Mafia.

Catalonotte pushed for peaceful solutions to underworld disputes. As a result of his policies, the Mafia gangs prospered during the '20s, and for ten years there was relative peace in Detroit's Sicilian underworld.

The survivors of the Giannola/Vitale conflict evolved into two organizations after 1920. These gangs were known as the Eastside and Westside Mobs. The Eastsiders operated predominantly on the upper Detroit River east of the city. This group was led by Angelo Meli, William "Black Bill" Tocco, Leo "Black Leo" Cellura, and Joseph Zerilli. The Westside Mob, sometimes referred to as the Catalonotte Gang, was led by a treacherous mobster named Chester LaMare. LaMare was known as the Vice King of Hamtramck.

Amazon.com Widgets

NATALIE WOOD: LOS ANGELES POLICE REOPEN HER DEATH INQUIRY!

2011-11-19T18:01:00.006-05:00

Robert Wagner and Natalie Wood

What a shocker!!!! LA police are reopening the death inquiry of actress Natalie Wood. Natalie disappeared off her boat and was found drowned off the coast of Catalina Island.. The boat captain has come foward after these many years since Thanksgiving of 1981... It appears the finger is now pointing at Robert Wagner! OMG

Read the Full BBC Story Here

US police have reopened an inquiry into the mysterious death of film star Natalie Wood, who drowned in 1981. Police in Los Angeles say they have received new information relating to the case, but have not given details.

Wood was found dead during a boat trip off the coast of California with her husband, TV star Robert Wagner, and actor Christopher Walken. At the time her death was ruled to have been an accident, but questions have lingered.

THE BEATLES: YOU CAN'T DO THAT AND MY OTHER FAVORITES

2011-11-17T14:49:00.005-05:00

The Beatles

The Beatles were an English rock band, active throughout the 1960s and one of the most commercially successful and critically acclaimed acts in the history of popular music. Formed in Liverpool, by 1962 the group consisted of John Lennon (rhythm guitar, vocals), Paul McCartney (bass guitar, vocals), George Harrison (lead guitar, vocals) and Ringo Starr (drums, vocals).

You Can't Do That..

Rooted in skiffle and 1950s rock and roll, the group later worked in many genres ranging from pop ballads to psychedelic rock, often incorporating classical and other elements in innovative ways. The nature of their enormous popularity, which first emerged as "Beatlemania", transformed as their songwriting grew in sophistication. They came to be perceived as the embodiment of ideals of the social and cultural revolutions of the 1960s.

I'll Cry Instead

Initially a five-piece line-up of Lennon, McCartney, Harrison, Stuart Sutcliffe (bass) and Pete Best (drums), they built their reputation playing clubs in Liverpool and Hamburg over a three-year period from 1960. Sutcliffe left the group in 1961, and Best was replaced by Starr the following year.

Run for Your Life

Molded into a professional outfit by their manager, Brian Epstein, their musical potential was enhanced by the creativity of producer George Martin. They achieved mainstream success in the United Kingdom in late 1962, with their first single, "Love Me Do". Gaining international popularity and acquiring the nickname "Fab Four" the following year, they toured extensively until 1966. During their subsequent "studio years", they produced what critics consider some of their finest material including the album Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band (1967), widely regarded as a masterpiece.

Ask Me Why...

After their break-up in 1970, the band members all found success in independent musical careers. Lennon was murdered outside his home in New York City in 1980, and Harrison died of cancer in 2001. McCartney and Starr remain active.

Tell Me Why

The Beatles are the best-selling band in history

And Your Bird Can Sing

Rare Full TV Show 1965

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PATSY CLINE TUNE?

2011-11-17T12:10:00.003-05:00

Travis Small on Deviant Art

This morning I popped up a Patsy Cline song on my I tunes that I love... "Leavin on Your Mind"

I posted this video on Facebook and a lot of people wrote in their Patsy favorites... So I thought I would share a couple of their choices too.

Phyllis S. I love her . . . my favorite song of her's is "She's
Got You".

Lelia R. I could never single out just one because I kind of worship her, but there is something about "Three Cigarettes in an Ashtray" that really gets me, so poignant.

JFK, JUDITH EXNER, AND SAM GIANCANA

2011-11-15T21:17:00.010-05:00

John F Kennedy and Judith Campbell-Exner

The rumored affair between President John F. Kennedy and Judith Campbell-Exner was revealed to the press around 1975.

Sam Giancana

It was possible that the Republicans released Judith's name and information to discredit the assassinated president.

According to legend Frank Sinatra introduced Judith to JFK and also to Chicago Mob Boss Sam Giancana.

Frank Sinatra and John F. Kennedy

Supposedly Judith carried messages back and forth between the President and the mob. The reputed connection between JFK's father Joseph Kennedy and Giancana left the President in a really tight spot.

Billy Campbell and Judith Campbell-Exner

J. Edgar Hoover had Judith tailed to obtain information with which to black mail the Kennedys. In 1977 Judith wrote her autobiography as her name was revealed to the press anyway. It was amazing how the American public had no idea about this affair for over a decade. Now days there is no keeping things under wraps... Everything is public...

From Sam Sloan's Book Mafia Moll: The Judith Exner Story, The Life of the Mistress of John F. Kennedy

Exner has been treated unfairly by history. She never sought to capitalize off the fact that she was JFK's mistress. She kept this hidden for years. Jackie knew about her, of course. Once, when Jackie found a woman's pink panties in her pillow case, she turned to JFK in bed and said, "Would you find out who these belong to, because they are not my size?"

Although JFK was assassinated in 1963, it was not until 1975 that the identity of Exner was revealed. This happened when the Church Committee investigated the link which Exner formed between JFK and Sinatra's friends, including Mafia don Sam Giancana. Author Sam Sloane

Amazon.com Widgets

THE ROLLING STONES US TV DEBUT 11-15-1965

2011-11-15T14:33:00.004-05:00

The Rolling Stones 1965

The Rolling Stones made their US TV debut on 11-15-1965 on tv show Hullabaloo, performing ‘Get Off Of My Cloud’. We remember this show totally! We were dancing around my room doing the "Off my Cloud" dance...What a gas!! DVD of Hullabaloo broadcast.

Hullabaloo was an American musical variety series that ran on NBC from January 12, 1965 through August 29, 1966. Similar to Shindig! it ran in prime time in contrast to ABC's American Bandstand.

Many of the programs in the series were videotaped at NBC Studios in Burbank, California. Others were taped in New York City at NBC's Studio 8H (built for Arturo Toscanini and the NBC Symphony Orchestra and which would later house Saturday Night Live), and in NBC's studio in the Midwood section of Brooklyn.

Much of the series' color videotaped footage was later dubbed over to kinescope on film - as such copied in black and white. Only three half-hour episodes are known to exist in their original videotaped form.

CAN'T GET USED TO LOSING YOU.....

2011-11-15T13:09:00.007-05:00

"Can't Get Used to Losing You" is such a great song... As a kid my Mom loved Andy Williams and his TV show. It was one TV show that I enjoyed watching although it wasn't rock n roll... I still love Andy's voice solo or with his brothers. Andy's Christmas specials were just the best... But this song is my favorite of Andy...

Fast forward a couple of decades and this song reappears in my life....

Kimmer and Dave Wakeling

A couple of years ago the English Beat asked me to cover their show at The Magic Bag in Ferndale. Stanley T. Madhatter and I ran out to meet Dave Wakeling and see the show. When I got there I was told I couldn't film the band playing. So, as we approached the back door of the Bag, we ran right into Dave.

So I asked him to sit for a few short questions... Dave was fantastic and I was pretty much a video newbie... Watch the arm coming through the window handing Dave a cup of coffee... Yep it's the Madhatter!

One of the questions I did ask him though is how did the Beat decide to cover "Can't Get Used to Losing You". Dave told me he did it for his Dad. It is a fantastic cover!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY PETULA CLARK!

2011-11-15T12:37:00.006-05:00

Petula Clark Official Site

One of the very best vocalists of the 1960's was Petula Clark. "Downtown" was her major hit and is still an incredible song. When I took my young daughter and her friends on vacation I had "Downtown" on CD in my jeep. The kids went nuts whenever it came on... Still cool to this day.....

Petula Clark, CBE (born 15 November 1932) is an English singer, actress, and composer whose career has spanned seven decades

Clark's professional career began as an entertainer on BBC Radio during World War II. During the 1960s she became known internationally for her popular upbeat hits, including "Downtown", "I Know a Place", "My Love", "Colour My World", "A Sign of the Times", and "Don't Sleep in the Subway." She has sold in excess of 68 million records throughout her career. (!!!)

SCOTT MORGAN VIDEO PICKS FOR 11-14-11

2011-11-14T22:31:00.005-05:00

Scott Morgan photo by Kimmer

Scott really picked some fine tunes tonight! Check these out.....

Pata Pata

In the Basement

Do I Love You

Wade in the Water

Iko Iko

I Can't Believe What You Say

DETROIT SINGER LORI KING REALLY KICKS IT!

2011-11-14T11:27:00.005-05:00

Lori King

Check this Detroit Soul singer Lori King.... I was sent info on Ms King by Tropical Jon so I took a listen... I totally love Lori's cover of "Signed Sealed Delivered" Take a listen.... Haven't met Lori yet but really hope to very soon....

Lori kicks em out and makes Detroit PROUD...

Lori King My Space
Lori King Facebook

AL GWYLLT (AKA JUSTIN KASE) AUDITIONS FOR AMERICA'S GOT TALENT!

2011-11-14T09:04:00.014-05:00

My friend Al just recently tried out for America's Got Talent in Tampa. He wrote about his experience below: Thanks Al!!! xRK

From Al....

The entrance paperwork that I downloaded was surprisingly lengthy: 12 pages in all. They were mostly about giving America's Got Talent, (From here on called AGT), complete autonomy on the use of my face, voice etc. for future use on TV, Ads, and promotions, which I happily signed off on.

Tampa Bay Convention Center

The auditions were held at Tampa Bay Convention Center, more than 2 hours of driving. I was up at 3:30 AM and out the door at 4:30 am. I arrived just before 7:00.

The day was beautiful: 70 degrees and dry. The auditions were scheduled to start at 8:00 AM and the line waiting was already 200, but many contestants were under 18 so they had to have their parents and/or signed legal guardians.

In my backpack I had brought fruit, orange juice, water, etc. Couldn't take it in. They had cardboard bins for unopened items for donating to the needy. I had no problem with that, so I cleaned it out.

Balalaika

Next step; The first table outside a fellow had to inspect my bag and my Balalaika case. Next, there was a table where a guy was giving you your wrist bands that had AGT all over it.

Note: Al wasn't allowed to video or photograph while at the audition but he loves this video of a young guy playing Mario's Theme on a Balalaika below...

At a table was a fellow that instructed me to set everything down and remove all metal, much like you would do at an airport. I lifted my arms and while he was scanning me I said, "I didn't realize that I would be leaving on a jet plane!" He laughed. And then I said, "But I'll let you know when I'll be back again." More chuckles. (Leaving on a Jet Plane Altered lyrics from Peter Paul and Mary).

By the time they began corralling us up the stairs to the receiving area there were almost 600 in line. When I walked through the doors I was astounded at how large it was! It was easily 10 times the size of the property that my house sits on!

I wasn't done yet. More tables. eventually I was direct to and lady that had finished up with one of the contestants. She had to check out my paperwork, see my photo ID, checked my number, and gave me another release for to sign which I would present to the audition people.

Now it was the waiting game. I bought some water and just walked around,: I had been sitting for 2 and half hours. The back half of the room had the tables and chairs, and were now becoming full. I now calculated that there were 800 people in the room.

Many of the younger ones were were rehearsing in faraway corners or near walls in my open area. Singers, 3 young break dancers, one teenage girl who was a belly-dancer walked past with her mother and dressed to the 9s!

Finally, they began calling out the numbers. The first group were #s 001-050. I was 141; the 3rd batch to be called. They directed us outside and down and around to some hallway underneath.

It was beautiful! They split us up into smaller groups and directed us to the judging rooms. Our room was 'A'. We were the solo musician/artists. The staff member started calling us one at a time. (I had overheard that one of the acts that had finished had 2 judges.). When it got down to the last 5 he wanted everyone to enter the room, and we required to stay and wait until the 5 of us were through before leaving.

When I walked in I found that there were 4 judges and a camera man. (The judges, I believe, were co-producers of the show.) There was a big, blue, 'X marks the spot' 10 feet in front of them. I was called 4th.

We had been told by the Judge Director to state our name, how old we were, where we were from, and what we were going to play.

I said, "I'm Justin Kase, I'm 56, I'm originally from Ypsilanti Michigan but now live in Punta Gorda, Florida." The Director held up his hand and asked, "Is that your real name?" I said, "I had changed it 16 years ago for the music biz. My birth name is of Welsh origin, and it's almost impossible to pronounce or spell."

"OK Justin Kase, what are you going to play for us?" I said, "My rendition of Tears of a Clown by Smokey Robinson on the Balalaika."

We had 90 seconds. I would give myself an 85% on the first ten seconds on the intro, but when I began to sing it all fell together rather nicely.

Piers Morgan Sharon Osbourne Howie Mandel

When we were done we were good to go home. They said that the contestants will be notified in the next month or 2--I believe they have to review the footage before making their decisions--and the ones that made it will have to come back for the 2nd round, probably in front of Howie Mandel, Piers Morgan and Sharon. Osbourne.

In the parking structure I ran into a guy that had played in the same room. He came up to me and said that at first he wasn't familiar with the song, until I began singing it. He complimented me on my unusual voice coupled with an unusual instrument.

He said that I did a great job. We yakked for about 10 minutes talking music, He's a song writer and gave me a CD and I gavhttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gife him my book's promotional card. He said he loves to read Sci-Fi and intends on looking it up. We parted ways and I drove home.

All in all it was a great day... 12 hours from start to finish. Back in the saddle again? Al (Justin Kase)

DENIZ TEK'S VIDEO VAULT VOL 6

2011-11-13T22:53:00.004-05:00

Deniz Tek (2009)

Carole King in 1971 singing Aretha's mega hit "Natural Woman". I love Aretha's version, but King matches that intensity here ... and she wrote it.

Garrett McNamara surfs a 90 foot wave off Portugal for the world record. I normally just post music videos, but this is beyond amazing.

Etta James, Lattimore Brown, Little Esther Phillips, Clarence "Gatemouth" Brown, and more all join in on "What I Say" on a local TV station in 1966. This clip brings up the question ... Can people have TOO MUCH FUN??

-Deniz

RETROKIMMER: "GO NOW"

2011-11-13T19:06:00.004-05:00

Bessie Banks

Before The Moody Blues recorded it, "Go Now" was a Northern Soul single featuring Bessie Banks, it was released in 1964. Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller produced this record and it was written by Bessie's husband Larry Banks. I love this version but the Moody Blue's cover is my ultimate favorite...

Denny Laine recalled to Gibson.com how the band came to cover this song: "It came in one of these suitcases full of records from America. This guy, James Hamilton, he was a friend of B. Mitchel Reed, who was a DJ, and he would send this stuff across.

So I picked that one out especially because Mike Pinder was a piano player. (chuckles) We'd always get the gig where the piano would be out of tune and we'd get the slow hand clap because they were waiting to tune the piano… (laughs) Anyway, we did 'Go Now' because it was a song with a piano in it.

ROOSEVELT AT THE YPSILANTI TAP ROOM...

2011-11-11T20:38:00.005-05:00

Roosevelt and The Modfather!

Met up with Roosevelt at the Tap Room last night to shoot more video of this fantastic blues drummer/vocalist.... Roosevelt...

Roosevelt is originally from Arkansas and has been her in Michigan for over 30 years. He has been drumming and singing voer 30 years... I asked him who some of his favorite drummers are... his first choice is Elvin Jones the same as Dennis "Machinegun" Thompson legendary drummer of the MC5.

It is so extremely rare to see a blues vocalist kick the tar out of the drums at the same time!!! YIKES... I loved it.... so folks stay tuned as we have more fun in store for you coming soon.... Thanks so much to Dee Gilbert, Mark Boone, Daniel and Brian at the Tap Room.... xoRK

SCOTT MORGAN'S MUSIC AND GARY GRIMSHAW'S ART

2011-11-11T18:54:00.007-05:00

See Scott play live November 26, 2011 at Corktown!

THREE CHORDS AND A CLOUD OF DUST.....
Scott Morgan Official Website
Scott Morgan on Facebook
Scott Morgan Myspace
Sonic's Rendezvous Band on Myspace
Sonic's Rendezvous Band

Gary Grimshaw Official Art Web Site

RAW DOGS!!!

2011-11-10T13:11:00.004-05:00

The Raw Dogs

What a cool cd I just got from Dean Karas.... Love it but it is still in it's raw form... So I will share their online info for now.... I got to see this hot young guitarist and drummer last week and he killed!!! YIKES!!

From Dean:

Whats up Kimmer, Its Dean. Just thought I would give you some of that information you wanted regarding our shows and cd releases and what not.

I'm assuming you have a facebook, (HAH) if so just search for Rawdogs, or take this link most of our scheduled things end up there, but we have these shows coming up:

Friday, November 11 at 10, Kalamazoo
Thursday, November 17 at 7:00pm, Small's
Friday, December 9 at 8:00pm,Smalls

Also, the December 9th show is the CD release show, we will have an 8 song album for sale at the show.

Stay tuned for more info on this hot group!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DENIZ TEK!

2011-11-09T20:23:00.004-05:00

Deniz Tek

Deniz is in Australia and their time is ahead so though this story is November 9 here is is the 10th there... Thanks to Mark Sisto for the assist tonight!

My tribute to The Only and Only Deniz Tek!

Happy Birthday to my pal Deniz Tek. What a guy and and I ever happy to have met him. We have worked together going on 2 years now and what an experience... What a musical education along with all the very exciting stories he tells me about life as a Navy Flight Surgeon and more.... Deniz just finished an art showing at Hand Of Law Gallery and sat in with his great friend Penny Ikinger too. For now I am sharing some videos of Deniz that I had a lot to do with getting produced...

This little video is from my first meeting with Deniz at a rehearsal studio/warehouse in Ann Arbor and what a lucky girl to be sitting in a chair with my camera! Al King on Drums/Chris Taylor Bass/ Scott Morgan guitar and vocals/Deniz Tek...

Eric Pouille (Holy Curse) singing "New Race" impromptu at The Blind Pig... Al King/Chris Taylor/Scott Morgan and Deniz Tek back to camera....

Deniz, his brother Karl, and Eric Pouille went to film this clip about Denniz "Machinegun Thompson" at Madonna University with Dan Boyd.

Deniz Tek...best known as the guitarist, main songwriter, and leader of Aussie Stooges-disciples Radio Birdman, Deniz Tek is originally from Ann Arbor, MI. Inspired by such local heroes as the MC5 and the aforementioned Stooges during the '60s, Tek decided to form his own high-energy rock outfit, patterned after both bands, upon arriving in Australia in 1971 (to study medicine at the University of New South Wales).

Happy Birthday Deniz with much love from KIMMER

PATRICIA IZZO: RIVER'S EDGE GALLERY SERPENTS & HEROINES OPENING

2011-11-09T18:57:00.005-05:00

River's Edge Gallery is a full service gallery. They specialize in carrying local and regional artists. REG has 3 floors featuring wall art, fine art photography, sculptures, glass, metal works, jewelry and much more.

We will be at this opening to see our Wyandotte friends and enjoy all the fabulous art on hand.... Can't wait to meet Patricia Izzo in person!

Photographer/Painter Patricia Izzo

Hours:

Mon-Thurs 10am-7pm

Friday 10am-8pm

Saturday 10am-5pm

3024 Biddle Wyandotte, Mi. 48192 (734)246-9880

TIM HURLEY: OPEN LETTER TO THE NFL!!

2011-11-09T10:06:00.007-05:00

Lions Wallpapers

From Tim Hurley....

Dear NFL,

On behalf of every Lion Loving Music Fan in Michigan, please take note. As a 56 year old life time, dyed-in-the Honolulu Blue wool, long-suffering resident, words lack to describe how horrified the Detroit Lions fans are about any consideration given to NickelBack "performing" this Thanksgiving Day's half-time show. Hasn't Detroit gone through enough without having to endure aural ASSAULT?

What brain-trust in your organization made this asinine call? Have you taken leave of your senses? Who made this call? C'mon! Get a grip! NickelBack is not worthy to clean the jock straps of our beloved Lion players.

With all of the home-grown talent on hand in the "D", why would you pick this band of no-talent, soulless losers? You might take a cue from the Illitch organization. Did you happen to catch Aretha Franklin tearing up the National Anthem during the playoffs? Almost ANYONE but Nickelback would be better suited at Ford Field.

Yeah...times are tough. Maybe your budget has taken a hit. Bob Seger, Ted Nugent, Kid Rock, Eminem & Stevie Wonder may be out of reach. There are plenty of other local bands and talent that might jump at a chance to represent Detroit.

Scott Morgan and the "Irrationals"

Have you considered Scott Morgan and the Irrationals, the Muggs, Jim McCarty with Johnny Bee or any other dozens of available local bands? Why not? Anyone can write and bitch. However, after prayer and careful thought, here's a great idea idea and a killer tip...

DKT/MC5

Enlist DKT/MC5 for the gig. The remaining members of the Five could co-conspire with other recalcitrant rebels and provide a half-time show to end all shows. I guarantee they would tear that place up while kicking out some serious jams and making Detroit proud. Heck, you could fly those boys in, pay em' right and combine their collective talents.

Imagine Dennis "Machine Gun" Thompson & Scott "Rock Action" banging dual sets of skins with Michael Davis on bass guitar providing a rhythmic jack-hammer section of pulverizing undertow throb; James Williamson on rhythm guitar; Wayne Kramer on lead--fronted by Scott Morgan & Iggy Pop on vocals. Think of the set list medley possibilities.

How bout' "Kick Out The Jams" "Come Together" "Down On The Street"
"I Wanna Be Your Dog" (to pump up Ndamukong Suh for the 2nd half) ending with a holy cacophony encore of "Black To Comm"?

O' my soul...now that would be a halftime gig worthy of Ford Field. By the end of halftime, the game would be over with those Green Bay Cheeseheads cowering in their locker room collectively shizzing themselves in terror while calling for mommy.

I'd encourage you in the strongest terms to get your act together. Reconsider your choice to bring in Nickelback and then fire the son of a bitch who did it. No mercy. Save yourselves from the worst PR fiasco that could ever befall the NFL. Trust me, it would do more damage in 10 minutes than in the entire tenure of Russ Thomas.

Have you seen the new T-shirt? Finally, I'll include a clip of a song that only the rebellious rocker society of Detroit & Ann Arbor could have ever produced. Play it and then see if Nickelback could ever hope to deliver the goods required for a home-town Detroit audience.

May God bless you to see the error of your ways, to repent & correct them before it's too late.

"The horror...the horror"

Tim Hurley
HURLCO
Royal Oak, Michigan

DETROIT MAFIA....ANTHONY JOSEPH ZERILLI:

2011-11-05T17:12:00.015-04:00

The Detroit Purple Gang are perhaps the most infamous in the history of Detroit, Michigan's Organized Crime. However the Detroit Italian Mafia organization was quite active... however camera shy... They were one of the most powerful Italian Mafia families short of New York and Chicago. May still be for all we know...

Just try to find photos of the early members...almost non existent. More savvy than the famed mobsters of legend...the Detroit Mob operated quite successfully and continue to this today or so they say.... Today I thought we'd take a look at Anthony Joseph Zerilli (Tony Z)....

Tony Z

Anthony Joseph Zerilli (born October 24, 1927) is an Italian-American mobster from Sterling Heights, Michigan who was the reputed underboss of the Detroit Partnership ("The Partnership") criminal organization, which is part of La Cosa Nostra.

At the time of his birth, Tony's father was an up-and-coming member of the Eastside Detroit Mob under the direction of Angelo Meli and his cousin and brother-in-law Vito William Tocco.

Detroit Italian Crime Bosses

Joseph Zirelli (father) 1897-1977

Tony spent his teenage years working at the Detroit Italian-American Bakery in Roseville, Michigan. Like his cousin Jack Tocco, Tony graduated from the University of Detroit in 1949. In 1947, Tony reportedly became a made man in the (Detroit) Partnership by murdering Gust Andromalus in a Detroit basement.

By 1964, Tony was recognized as the leader of his own unit or "crew" within the Detroit mafia. This meant that Tony was officially the leader of his own group of criminal operators and was recognized as a leader within the Detroit partnership and the local underworld. This added power and influence gave the young Zerilli a heightened and more significant status not only within the Detroit underworld, but within the national underworld as a mid-level mobster. (Mafia Wiki)

Detroit don Joseph Zerilli's only son, “Tony Z” was initially tagged as his father’s replacement, however following Tony Z’s imprisonment in 1973 on charges of skimming millions of dollars from a Las Vegas hotel and casino, the aging mob chieftain demoted his offspring in favor of his nephew Jack Tocco.

Both the younger Tocco and Zerilli received college business degrees from the University of Detroit-Mercy in 1949, around the same time, according to Congressional testimony, they “made their bones” and were inducted into the mafia. ( Organized Crime in Detroit CBS Detroit)

Hazel Park Raceway

In 1949, Tony became president of the Hazel Park Racing Association and Track in Hazel Park, Michigan. Tony purchased a controlling interest in the operation for $50,000. Over the next twenty-three years, Hazel Park produced an estimated $15,000,000 a year in revenue, netting an annual profit of $1,200,000 for its investors.

Although listed as the number one man in the Hazel Park operation, Hazel Park was such a success that in August 1970 Tony, Jack Tocco, and Dominic Corrado decided to build another race track. The three men invested $2,500,000 in 280 acres (1.1 km²) of land in Hollywood, Florida, for the construction of a second racing complex.

However, the second project, to be called Hazel Park South, was cancelled when Tony ran into legal problems in Las Vegas. Tony's legal difficulties not only canceled Hazel Park South, but in 1972 forced him and his partners to sell the original Hazel Park Complex in Michigan. Upon the sale of Hazel Park, Zerilli made $780,000 from his 92,634 shares.

Zerilli's profits from Hazel Park allowed him to enter into several other businesses, including the 1968 establishment of the Spaghetti Palace restaurant near the Macomb Mall in Roseville, Michigan.

Tony would succeed his father as the boss of the Partnership until his incarceration in 1974. Tony would be demoted while in prison and has never been recognized as the official boss of the Detroit Partnership since. His cousin, Jack Tocco, son of Detroit Partnership patriarch, Vito "Black Bill" Tocco assumed control of the crime family by 1978 with the death of his uncle Joe Zerilli, but Tony was named underboss and has allegedly remained in this highly powerful and influential position within the organization since.

Like several other legendary mafia offspring such as Santo Trafficante Jr. (Tampa), Salvatore "Bill" Bonanno (Bonanno), Anthony Carolla (New Orleans), Alphonse "Little Allie Boy" Persico (Colombo), Joseph "Big Joe" Todaro Jr. (Buffalo) and his cousin Jack Tocco, Tony Zerilli is considered "American Mafia Royalty" and at one time led one of America's most powerful mafia crime families and was called "The Boss." (Mafia Wiki)

DETROIT ROCKERS CRUD WERE ON CBS CSI TV SHOW!!!

2011-11-04T17:48:00.003-04:00

CRUD

Detroit Rockers Crud were featured on CBS' CSI TV Show! New Single "Man Goes Down" Included in Episode Soundtrack Aired 11/2/11 at 10 pm so stay tuned for re broadcasts soon!

Detroit Rockers Crud was heard on episode (11/2/11) of CBS' hit show "CSI" (Las Vegas). The band's song "Man Goes Down" was part of the episode's soundtrack which centered around a murderous sideshow circus.

No strangers to television or film, Crud's music has been the soundtrack of choice to an array of hit shows and films, most notably FX's "Sons of Anarchy," "Burn Notice" (USA), "Detroit 1-8-7" (ABC), cult horror flicks "Laid 2 Rest" (I and II), and the trailer (TV version) for the blockbuster movie "Sherlock Holmes."

"Man Goes Down" is culled from Crud's new critically acclaimed CD "Crud on Monster Island," now available on Itunes, CDbaby.net and bigcartel.com.

Fronted by Sponge lead singer Vinnie Dombroski (who the Austin Chronicle calls one of rock's most mesmerizing front-men) and burlesque beauty Danielle Arsenault, the duo - along with band mates David Black (guitar), Dana Forrester (bass), and Leander Decordova (drums) - are notorious for their decadent live show - a visual and aural assault that evokes the subversiveness of "Fight Club" with the danger of a Quentin Tarantino film, while leaving audiences begging for more.

Hailing from Detroit’s underbelly, Crud toured the UK (including a headlining slot at the Whitby Goth Festival) in support of their debut CD "Devil at the Wheel." The band also landed a coveted slot at Rue Morgue Magazine's "Festival of Fear" with George A. Romero (Night of the Living Dead) in Toronto, in addition to headlining some of the coolest festivals across the land: Theatre Bizarre, The Peoples Arts Festival, Arts, Beats and Eats Festival, Noir Leather and Showtime Clothing Anniversary Bashes, “Pink’s All Out” party at Milan Dragway, Carnival of Chaos, Hellbent and more!

Detroiters can see Crud live on November 23 at The Ritz (24300 Hoover Rd., Warren, Michigan) when they headline the venue during the biggest bar night of the year.

With plans for a 2012 European tour and a new music video in the works - fans will soon have plenty of CRUD to satisfy their Crudlust.

For more information about Crud please visit crud313.com or facebook.com/cruddetroi t.

RETROKIMMER'S FAVORITE GIG VIDEOS

2011-11-02T00:07:00.005-04:00

Stanley T Madhatter photo by Kimmer

Here are several of my very favorite videos from gigs I went to or wish I had gone to... Videos by Dan Boyd (The Wizard of Livonia) and the other by Kimmer... Love these videos especially the ones with Madhatter.... xoRK

MY TOP FAVORITE:

MADHATTER,STEVE GODOY BERMONDSEY JOYRIDERS

THE SEATBELTS

STANLEY T MADHATTER

THE RUINERS

BOOTSEY X

THE TORPEDOS

DISPATCHES BLOG: SUPERSONIC MAN COL. JOE KITTINGER

2011-11-01T22:41:00.012-04:00

Colonel Joe Kittinger

Story by Greg J. Johnson
DISPATCHES #3457

Joe Kittinger is not a household aviation name like Neil Armstrong or Chuck Yeager. But what he did for the U.S. space program is comparable. On August 16, 1960, as research for the then-fledgling U.S. space program, Air Force Captain Joseph Kittinger rode a helium balloon to the edge of space,102,800 feet above the earth, a feat in itself.

Col Joe Kittinger The Right Stuff

Then, wearing just a thin pressure suit and breathing supplemental oxygen,he leaned over the cramped confines of his gondola and jumped--into the 110-degree-below-zero, near-vacuum of space. Within seconds his body accelerated to 714mph in the thin air, breaking the sound barrier.

After free-falling for more than four and a half minutes, slowed finally by friction from the heavier air below, he felt his parachute open at 14,000 feet, and he coasted gently down to the New Mexico desert floor.

Kittinger's feat showed scientists that astronauts could survive the
harshness of space with just a pressure suit and that man could eject from aircraft at extreme altitudes and survive.

Upon Kittinger's return to base, a congratulatory telegram was waiting from the Mercury seven astronauts-including Alan Shepard and John Glenn.

More than four decades later Kittinger's two world records--the highest parachute jump, and the only man to break the sound barrier without an aircraft and live-still stand.

We decided to visit the retired colonel and Aviation Hall of Famer, now 75, at his home in Altamonte Springs, Florida, to recall his
historic jump.

Joe Kittinger: We got up at 2 a.m. to start filling the helium balloon. At sea level, it was 35 to 40 feet wide and 200 feet high; at altitude, due to the low air pressure, it expanded to 25 stories in width, and still was 20 stories high!

At 4 a.m. I began breathing pure oxygen for two hours. That's how long it takes to remove all the nitrogen from your blood so you don't get the bends going so high so fast. Then it was a lengthy dress procedure layering warm clothing under my pressure suit. They kept me in air-conditioning until it was time to launch because we were in the desert and I wasn't supposed to sweat. If I did, my clothes would freeze on the way up.

How was your ascent?

It took an hour and a half to get to altitude. It was cold. At 40,000 feet,the glove on my right hand hadn't inflated. I knew that if I radioed my doctor, he would abort the flight. If that happened, I knew I might never get another chance because there were lots of people who didn¹t want this test to happen.

I took a calculated risk, that I might lose use of my right hand. It quickly swelled up, and I did lose use for the duration of the flight. But the rest of the pressure suit worked. When I reached 102,800 feet, maximum altitude, I wasn't quite over the target.

So I drifted for 11 minutes. The winds were out of the east. What's it look like from so high up? You can see about 400 miles in every direction. The formula is 1.25 x the sq. root of the altitude in thousands of feet. (The square root of 102,000 ft is 319 X 1.25 = 399 miles)

The most fascinating thing is that it's just black overhead--the
transition from normal blue to black is very stark. You can't see stars because there's a lot of glare from the sun, so your pupils are too small. I was struck with the beauty of it. But I was also struck by how hostile it is: more than 100 degrees below zero, no air. If my protection suit failed, I would be dead in a few seconds. Blood actually boils above 62,000 feet.

I went through my 46-step checklist, disconnected from the balloon¹s power supply and lost all communication with the ground. I was totally under power from the kit on my back. When everything was done, I stood up,turned around to the door, took one final look out and said a silent prayer: "Lord,take care of me now." Then I just jumped over the side.

What were you thinking as you took that step?

It's the beginning of a test. I had gone through simulations many
times--more than 100. I rolled over and looked up, and there was the
balloon just roaring into space. I realized that the balloon wasn't roaring into space; I was going down at a fantastic rate! At about 90,000 feet, I reached 714mph.

The altimeter on my wrist was unwinding very rapidly. But there was no sense of speed. Where you determine speed is visual--if you see something go flashing by. But nothing flashes by 20 miles up--there are no signposts there, and you are way above any clouds. When the chute opened, the rest of the jump was anticlimactic because everything had worked perfectly. I landed 12 or 13 minutes later, and there was my crew waiting. We were elated.

How about your right hand?

It hurt--there was quite a bit of swelling and the blood pressure in my arm was high. But that went away in a few days, and I regained full use of my hand.

What about attempts to break your record?

We did it for air crews and astronauts--for the learning, not to set a record. They will be going up as skydivers. Somebody will beat it someday. Records are made to be broken. And I'll be elated. But I'll also be concerned that they¹re properly trained. If they're not, they're taking a heck of a risk.

Today we are seeing cliff suit diving...

and even Rocket Man pushing the envelope...

I will be surprised, however, to see another Supersonic Man in the near future.

Feedback..

On Supersonic Man, Air Force vet Ron Kosh: "Coincidentally, another personalexperience from the 606th Air Commando Sq. at NKP ca '66-'67.. Kittinger was also in the squadron at the same time flying the A-26/B-26 (Douglas not Martin) on night HCM Trail interdiction. He was a Major then aka 'The Red Baron' (a flaming red handle bar and white scarf too.) and our CCT would spot night-time traffic for the A-26s using the 'new' 'starlight scope'. AC-123 would then illuminate with parachute flares...

Coincidentally, my Combat Control Team NCOIC at NKP was CM Sgt Jim Howell who served in the same capacity a few years earlier with Kittinger at El Centro/Parachute Test Gr..

Howell made the leap/tested the system from +/-100K' and actually held the record for a few days before Kittinger made 'The Long, Lonely Leap' (title of a book on it by Kittinger). Jim was no stranger to pressure suits.

A few years prior, ca '58, Howell was the first to eject at +1 mach. It was at 1.2 from the rear seat of a F-106 at something like 45K' to test it for Convair!

Even at that altitude and with all the protection, Jim said that when he cleared the windscreen he blacked out - felt as though he was hit between the eyes with a 2x4.. Kittinger was infamous with 606th armorers- whenever he flew, the barrels on his .50's always had to be replaced and never came back with ammo left over. He was shot down way north on a subsequent tour flying F-105's and finished the war as a POW. By that time a full colonel and senior officer of the second group to be released by Hanoi.

A couple decades ago he also did a (one of or the first) solo Atlantic crossing in a balloon."

I did not know about Kittinger's POW experience. Imagine what a great story it would have been if he'd been able to break out of the Hanoi Hilton in a hot air balloon!

REISSUE OF THE MICHIGAN MURDERS BOOK

2011-11-01T01:04:00.006-04:00

I met a woman tonight who is interested in paranormal activity and she let me know that the book "The Michigan Murders" by Edward Keyes has been reissued. Not sure if some of the author's errors have been corrected... but it is still a pretty accurate depiction of what life was like around Ypsilanti between 1969-1971.

From the University of Michigan Press:

With a new prologue by Mardi Link and a new epilogue by Laura James. The true story of the savage coed killings—by the boy who could have lived next door!

Southeastern Michigan was rocked in the late 1960s by the terrifying serial murders of young women, whose bodies were dumped in Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti. In each case, few clues were left at the scene, and six separate police agencies were unable to end the horror. Then, almost by accident, a break came. The suspect: John Norman Collins, a young, quiet, all-American boy.

Collins was caught, went to trial, and, on August 19, 1970, was found guilty and sentenced to life imprisonment with no possibility of parole. He is now in his sixties and is serving his sentence in Marquette, Michigan.