Ginzburg's Gab

MY MENTOR By: Evan Ginzburg A piece on radio host Fred Geobold

2012-01-28T20:38:00.000-08:00

MY MENTOR By: Evan Ginzburg

Fred Geobold was the richest man I’ve ever known.

And I don’t think he ever broke 25K.

The receptionist and switchboard operator at 50,000 Watt WBAI-FM, 99.5 in NYC, he was also an on-air radio host, folk singer, songwriter, concert MC, and championed untold numbers of musicians during his twenty plus year career.

A short fellow, with a beer belly, long beautiful red hair, and a big, bushy moustache to go with it, Fred Geobold was born Fred Kuhn in Shelbyville, Indiana in 1944. He was legally blind and there was more than one occasion where he’d hit the wrong button during an on-air Broadcast, and calmly proclaim, “We have dead air.”

He was ever so calm.

Fred was never happier than when he was on air or just sitting around cavernous WBAI talking politics with the other ancient radio folk who seemed to live at the studio. “Let’s make some radio,” he’d always say passionately before one of his thousands of broadcasts.

I met him through my involvement in the pro wrestling world. He grew up on The Bruiser, Crusher, and Verne Gagne in the Mid-West, and loved my primitive looking nostalgic grappling zine, Wrestling- Then & Now. Inviting me to do a five minute wrestling update segment on his Arts program, Light Show, which was heard 3-5AM Friday night/Saturday mornings, I readily agreed. Imagine thousands of folk listening to me? In 1991 it was a heady feeling for someone who had just started as an Adult Education teacher after leaving the elementary classroom. I was still trying to “find myself,” and I had suddenly become a very small part of a world famous, politically powerful station. We’d often pre-tape in studio because of the insane hour, and I’d occasionally do it live on air over the phone. But like clockwork it was heard each and every week, and it was always amazing to get reaction to it from those graveyard shift workers and late night revelers. I became hooked on radio and ultimately braved the question to him, “Can I do more?”

Fred, who was never anything but supportive to anyone he ever met, of course gave me the green light and basically carte blanche.

I soon incorporated the Arts into my segment and ultimately expanded to booking artists live on air, so I was now live in studio. Getting on that 2AM subway in Queens always felt eerie as it was nearly vacant going into Manhattan. At 2:45 I’d look at the sole human being in the car besides me and wondered, “Is he going to kill me?” Then I realized he was probably thinking the exact same thing.

Approaching the old WBAI studio at 505 Eight Avenue, there’d be the familiar crew of homeless right outside our door. Either amiably drunk or “sleeping one off,” they were never once a bother. Night manager Max Schmid, with his endless pony tail, would let me into the building and he’d escort me onto the ancient, creaky elevator reminiscent of something out of a silent movie. And you’d never know what to expect once you’d get out of it.

Staggering into the station bleary-eyed, I’d inevitably be jolted by an adrenaline rush caused by the alternate reality I had just been dropped into. For here was a waiting room full of musicians, performance artists, authors, and even larger-than-life professional wrestlers.

It was like a Fellini movie.

While most of the world slept, I was ever so grateful to be right here.

In the middle of this delightful chaos would be a bemused, smiling Fred Geobold. Carrying too many CDs for his hands to hold, he'd rush into the studio at 2:59 and change. Somehow he'd squeeze into every nook and cranny a multitude of instruments as well as the excited musicians who lugged them in. For many of them it would be their first time on the air.

"Let's make some radio," he'd say, contentment written on his face.

And for so many, many years we did just that. "You're listening to a Light Show," Fred would announce in that sweet voice so perfect for the airwaves.

He described radio as “making something out of nothing.” A blank canvas if you will. And I spent some of the best nights of my life with Fred Geobold at WBAI painting that canvas. Although an old “folkie,” he was open to absolutely anything. We had everyone from metal bands to rapper, Profecy, who worked only in Spanish. We didn’t know what the heck he was saying, but it sure sounded-and felt-wonderful.

Exhilarated after a broadcast, we'd unwind with our colorful guests and just talk. Of course, with the incredibly well-rounded Fred, you could discuss literally anything.

And with those conversations always came laughter

But it sure wasn’t funny when Fred came down with prostate and bone cancer. Yet he was so incredibly nonchalant about it, so fearlessly uncomplaining, that I just assumed he’d pull through. But suddenly his shock of hair was thinning and eventually almost gone. And there were weeks at a time that he was out sick as well, and I’d be at the helm of the show with two other co-hosts.

In 2005 our beloved Fred began to fail and lay in hospice care, so I booked an on-air tribute to him. For two hours musician after musician sang, and our fellow radio hosts came in to express their love. Even station execs put aside their differences for a change and stood in unity in their love for Fred.

The show was burned onto a CD for me and I rushed out to the hospital to play it for him. A fellow DJ was already there gently strumming a guitar and shot me a look that clearly read, “It isn’t good.” And one glace at an incredibly frail, bed-ridden Fred and I realized just that without her needing to say a word. He had that very same “look” my own Dad did at the end.

I played the CD for him. In and out of consciousness, he listened to the glowing tributes and kept repeating, “That’s lovely…that’s lovely.”

It was like he was hearing his own memorial service. I excused myself. Sitting in the bathroom, I cried my eyes out.

I said what I feared would be my final goodbye as he weakly shook my hand. “You take care of yourself, Fred. Thank you for everything. Thank you...”

Drained, I walked out in a fog and called the station, encouraging them to get down there immediately. “He doesn’t have long,” I exclaimed with urgency in my voice.

He was gone the very next day.

So now there was one final “show” to do. I organized the entertainment portion of his memorial service. Calling all of his favorite musicians, not a single one said no.

The old, Greenwich Village church didn’t have an empty seat that night. There had to be at least 300 people packed in there.

For some odd reason, it occurred to me that I don’t think I ever saw Fred when he didn’t have a T-shirt on. I doubt he owned a decent pair of clothes because it just didn’t matter to him. He certainly didn’t have pricy jewelry or a car, and lived modestly alone in a tiny apartment after his roller derby queen girlfriend left. I’d venture a guess he probably didn’t have a lot saved, either.

But a thought suddenly dawned on me as I stood at that podium looking out at the throngs of people who had come here to honor their lost comrade.

Fred Geobold was truly the most successful man I’d ever met.

One by one the musicians sang not only their songs but Fred’s praises. All were so very grateful for the support he had given them.

I even had a massive 300 plus pound masked wrestler, The Mambo King, pay tribute while in full ring regalia. Hey, Fred was a warm, funny, sensitive guy, but he sure treasured his steel-cage matches.

He would have loved this.

In a weird way the memorial felt like another gig. It took the longest time for it to sink in that I’d never, ever see the guy again.

During Fred’s illness we had moved to a 2PM Wednesday time slot. Little did I know that our “reward” for all the time spent in the middle of the night would be the beginning of the end for me at WBAI. We suddenly heard murmurs that we weren’t raising enough funds. “Others” deserved a slot at this time. Relatives and friends of the bigwigs wanted a piece of the pie. We went from every week to three times a month. And one day after 16 years on the show, I was called into “the office” and told my voice wasn’t as professional as my colleagues, that I didn’t engineer, that another on air host had spent more time attending station meetings and such and deserved the show “because she was a woman.”

But I knew it was really all about being in the middle of the dial, middle of the day. The slot had become prime real estate. For our “listener supported, non-commercial radio,” the power play felt disgracefully “Wall Street” to me. Ironically, and probably fittingly, that was right where the station had moved to. Fred would have been appalled at the apathy that my “firing” was met with there.

A mere couple of weeks later I started my own Net radio show, Legends Radio, and haven’t looked back since.

Fred Geobold was more than my radio mentor He was also a dear friend. We'd go to clubs and listen to the music he loved so much, promote and host gigs together, and even hit the wrestling shows.

I loved Fred Geobold. And always will.

When I look back at my now fifty plus years on this planet, I realize that meeting him was one of the greatest blessings I’ve ever had.

I may never be the radio man Fred was with that soothing voice of his, but he sure taught me how to “make something out of nothing.” And every time I’m on air, he’s still there with me somehow.

So as you used to say after each and every broadcast, Fred, “Stay tuned.”

Yes, stay tuned.

n www.legendsradio.net www.gizzisnyc.com www.evanginzburg.com www.aliveagainmovie.com

OPPORTUNITIES FOR MUSICIANS, POETS, FILMMAKERS, COMICS ETC

2012-01-22T05:50:00.000-08:00

SINGER-SONGWRITERS MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD! SHOW US YOUR TALENT!

WIN A FREE PROFESSIONALLY-PRODUCED RECORDING!

ALL STYLES AND GENRE WELCOME! GIZZI'S 16 WEST 8TH STREET NYC!

Jan. 23 7-9PM and Jan. 24 8-10:30PM RECORDING ARTISTS DEVELOPMENT, INC., RAD, OPEN MIC SINGER SONGWRITER SINGING CONTEST!

FIRST PRIZE: FREE RECORDING, WITH RAD PRODUCER PHIL CARROLL IN THE STUDIO, OF ONE ORIGINAL SONG!

SECOND PRIZE: $50 GIFT CERTIFICATE TO GUITAR CENTER NYC. MORE PRIZES AND GIVEAWAYS. GIZZIS CAFE, 16 WEST 8th STREET, BETWEEN FIFTH AVENUE AND MACDOUGAL STREET, GREENWICH VILLAGE. FOR MORE DETAILS GO TO WWW.RADART.ORG. EMAIL phil@radart.org OR JUST COME TO GIZZIS AND SING AN ORIGINAL OR COVER OF YOUR CHOICE, WITH OR WITHOUT ACCOMPANIMENT OR TRACKS. RAD IS A 501©(3) NON-PROFIT DEVOTED TO WORKING WITH SINGER SONGWRITERS TO RECORD THEIR ORIGINAL MUSIC. THE WINNER WILL ALSO BE INTERVIEWED BY MUSIC PROMOTER EVAN GINZBURG ON LEGENDSRADIO.NET. THANK YOU GIZZIS FOR PROVIDING YOUR WONDERFUL STAGE TO THESE TALENTED ARTISTS! FRIENDS AND FANS ARE INVITED TO COME CHEER YOU ON! GIZZIS CAFE/BAR OFFERS GREAT FOOD AND DRINK! WWW.GIZZISNYC.COM WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/GIZZISNYC. COME WIN A FREE RECORDING WITH RECORDING ARTISTS DEVELOPMENT AND ENJOY A FUN EVENING! WINNERS WILL BE ANNOUNCED ON FRIDAY, JANUARY 27, 7:00-11:00PM, AT RAD NIGHT AT GIZZIS CAFE! HEAR RAD 2011 CONTEST WINNERS! COME JOIN US!

Look for RAD on Facebook at http://ow.ly/62qZK

Luanne Surace

luannesurace@rcn.com

PLUS! TUESDAY JAN 31, 2012- Our final Open Mike night at Gizzi's- if you've been putting off getting that stage time, this is your last chance- musicians, singers, poets, filmmakers, comics all welcome 7-9PM

ALSO- Looking for a stage to perform on in Manhattan? Contact booker Evan Ginzburg to perform at Gizzi's evan_ginzburg@yahoo.com

OPPORTUNITIES FOR MUSICIANS, POETS, FILMMAKERS, COMICS ETC

2012-01-02T20:22:00.001-08:00

OPPORTUNITIES FOR MUSICIANS

Evan Ginzburg, Associate Producer of The Wrestler with Mickey Rourke and Host of Legends Radio announces weekly Tuesday Open Mike/Networking events at Gizzi’s in NYC

Open mike winners to receive international airplay

NEW YORK Dec, 24, 2011 —Often in life it’s not what you know, but who you know. And in the dog eat dog world of the entertainment industry, that’s frequently true. Thus, Evan Ginzburg, Associate Producer of The Wrestler and host of the long-running weekly Legends Radio is starting a new series on Tuesdays at beautiful Gizzi’s at 16 W 8^th in NYC, combining both an open mike and networking event.

Beginning Tuesday December 27, and continuing each Tuesday in January through Jan, 17, we will provide a stage for musicians, singers, comedians, writers, and poets. Sign up is at 6:30 PM with the open mike from 7 to 9PM. Participants can network in our beautiful venue, meeting folk involved in all aspects of the entertainment industry. Great food, drinks, desserts, will be available. At the end of each monthly cycle, one winner will receive airplay on Legends Radio, reaching five thousand plus listeners in over twenty countries. Guests who have appeared on Legends Radio include Jenny McCarthy, Ray Manzarek of The Doors, Billy Corgan of Smashing Pumpkins, Judy Collins, Roberta Flack, Norm McDonald, David Alan Grier, Jackie Martling, Shelly Berman, Pat Cooper, Robert Vaughn, and countless other celebrities as well as talent deserving wider recognition.

Gizzi’s is a beautiful, laid back venue with no cover (ten dollar minimum at the tables for non-performers). Its intimate stage has showcased every possible type of entertainment and is a beloved spot for talent who return time and time again.

View clips from Gizzi’s unique mix of entertainment here: http://youtu.be/9QQ6h_ncDco

So come on down this Tuesday. It’ll be your chance to have the rare opportunity to possibly get heard by an international audience. Bring your business cards and get ready to network with some great folk as well.

About Evan Ginzburg

Evan Ginzburg is a 20 plus year radio veteran formerly with 50,000 Watt WBAI-FM 99.5 NYC (Pacifica Radio). He currently hosts Legends Radio along with Dr. Mike Lano each Wednesday 7PM EST at www.legendsradio.net. He is the Associate Producer and appears as himself in The Wrestler starring Mickey Rourke. He is a Producer on the upcoming documentary, Theresa Sareo-Alive Again (www.aliveagainmovie.com). He also is a Booker at Gizzi’s, securing talent 3-4 nights a week.

Media contact:

Evan Ginzburg
Host- Legends Radio

Evan_ginzburg@yahoo.com

www.evanginzburg.com

www.legendsradio.net

www.gizzisnyc.com

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SINGER-SONGWRITERS MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD! SHOW US YOUR TALENT!

WIN A FREE PROFESSIONALLY-PRODUCED RECORDING!

ALL STYLES AND GENRE WELCOME!

Jan. 23 7–9PM and Jan. 24 8-10:30PM RECORDING ARTISTS DEVELOPMENT, INC., RAD, OPEN MIC SINGER SONGWRITER SINGING CONTEST!

FIRST PRIZE: FREE RECORDING, WITH RAD PRODUCER PHIL CARROLL IN THE STUDIO, OF ONE ORIGINAL SONG!

SECOND PRIZE: $50 GIFT CERTIFICATE TO GUITAR CENTER NYC. MORE PRIZES AND GIVEAWAYS. GIZZI’S, 16 WEST 8^th STREET, BETWEEN FIFTH AVENUE AND MACDOUGAL STREET, GREENWICH VILLAGE. FOR MORE DETAILS GO TO WWW.RADART.ORG. EMAIL phil@radart.org OR JUST COME TO GIZZIS AND SING AN ORIGINAL OR COVER OF YOUR CHOICE, WITH OR WITHOUT ACCOMPANIMENT OR TRACKS. RAD IS A 501©(3) NON-PROFIT DEVOTED TO WORKING WITH SINGER SONGWRITERS TO RECORD THEIR ORIGINAL MUSIC. THE WINNER WILL ALSO BE INTERVIEWED BY EVAN GINZBURG ON LEGENDSRADIO.NET. THANK YOU GIZZI’S FOR PROVIDING YOUR WONDERFUL STAGE TO THESE TALENTED ARTISTS! FRIENDS AND FANS ARE INVITED TO COME CHEER YOU ON! GIZZIS CAFE/BAR OFFERS GREAT FOOD AND DRINK! WWW.GIZZISNYC.COM WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/GIZZISNYC. COME WIN A FREE RECORDING WITH RECORDING ARTISTS DEVELOPMENT AND ENJOY A FUN EVENING! WINNERS WILL BE ANNOUNCED ON FRIDAY, JANUARY 27, 7:00-11:00PM, AT RAD NIGHT AT GIZZIS CAFE! HEAR RAD 2011 CONTEST WINNERS! COME JOIN US!

Look for RAD on Facebook at http://ow.ly/62qZK

Luanne Surace

luannesurace@rcn.com

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NOW OPENING JANUARY SLOTS AT GIZZI’S- Blank slots indicate open/presently available.

I am now booking every Monday, Tuesday, Friday and every second Sunday at Gizzi’s in the order I receive requests. Sets generally 40-45 or so minutes. Tip jar/CD sales allowed. All shows are heavily promoted on the Net as well as on my show, Legends Radio (www.legendsradio.net ) which is heard in the U.S., U.K., Germany, Canada, Russia, Estonia, France, South Korea, Japan, UAE, Australia, New Zealand, Taiwan, Chile, and Brazil with 5,000 plus listeners weekly.

We appreciate our acts also promoting your events and bringing in their audience- minimum 15 people draw to play as requested by management. No cover venue/$10 minimum at tables.

Tuesday Jan. 3

7PM OPEN MIKE/NETWORKING PARTY

9PM

Friday Jan. 6

7PM Brad Baker

8PM-10PM Hot Club From Hell’s Kitchen

10PM Planet Prem Rock

Monday Jan. 9

7PM Robyn Baxter "BE" Spoken word

8PM Edwin Vazquez

Tuesday Jan. 10

7PM OPEN MIKE/NETWORKING PARTY

9PM

Friday Jan. 13 BOOKED Film/Music night

Sunday Jan. 15

7PM

8PM

9PM sasha zand

Monday Jan. 16

7PM

8PM Edwin Vazquez

Tuesday Jan. 17

7PM OPEN MIKE/NETWORKING PARTY

9PM

Friday Jan. 20

7PM Tentatively filled

8PM Pamela Drake

9PM Terry McCarthy

10PM Rolling Tumbleweeds Monthly Residency

Monday Jan. 23

7-9 RAD contest
8-10 Edwin Vazquez

Tuesday Jan. 24

7 Marc Raphael

8-10 Recording Artist Development contest

Friday Jan. 27 Recording Artists Development Night - Booked

Sunday Jan. 29

7PM Timothy Douglas R&B/Jazz

8PM Ned Massey

9PM

Monday Jan. 30

7PM

8PM Edwin Vazquez

Tuesday Jan. 31

7PM OPEN MIKE/NETWORKING PARTY (TENTATIVE)

9PM

Holiday thoughts...

2011-12-25T11:09:00.001-08:00

Friday I threw a “holiday” party at a school I work at.

I’m white and Jewish. My wife is Korean and Christian.

My adult students (Pre-GED) are Muslim, Buddhist, Christian, Atheist and everything in between. One’s from Tibet and many from China and there’s long-time friction between their homelands. Well, no problems at THIS party where they danced and sang TOGETHER.

The band I hired was a brilliant Puerto-Rican singer named Edwin Vazquez who is as great a talent as I’ve ever had the pleasure to work with. He sang in English and Spanish. His is a musical stew that encompasses all kinds of sounds and influences, and he had an excellent rapper, A.I.G., sharing the stage on several cuts.

EVERYBODY loved it. EVERYBODY got along. EVERYBODY was happy. Particularly me, as I just got through a nightmarish three month cancer scare where I was misdiagnosed and dropped into medical HELL leading to a battery of tests and an unnecessary surgery.

If you have your health you have everything.

So, this party wasn’t about religious differences. It was about people appreciating friends and food and music. It was about “life.” And living it.

I tell my students it’s a shame that most wars throughout history are over religion. Because when all is done it’s “variations on a theme.” You visit your family. You bring gifts. You stuff your face with food. You pray to someone.

So why do people kill over this?

Anyway, before this gets too preachy, a happy, healthy and prosperous holiday and new year to all…

Evan Ginzburg

www.legendsradio.net

NYC Open mike winners to receive international airplay

2011-12-24T15:56:00.000-08:00

Evan Ginzburg, Associate Producer of The Wrestler with Mickey Rourke and Host of Legends Radio announces weekly Tuesday Open Mike/Networking events at Gizzi’s in NYC

Open mike winners to receive international airplay

View clips from Gizzi’s unique mix of entertainment here: http://youtu.be/9QQ6h_ncDco

About Evan Ginzburg

Media contact:

Evan Ginzburg
Host- Legends Radio

Evan_ginzburg@yahoo.com

www.evanginzburg.com

www.legendsradio.net

www.gizzisnyc.com

Concert Review- Bunny Sigler and Instant Funk NYC 12/16

2011-12-17T07:14:00.000-08:00

Concert Review- Bunny Sigler and Instant Funk

BB King’s Supper Club NYC

December 16, 2011

Bunny Sigler is the type of performer who owns a stage.

Looking sharp, Sigler oozes charisma, can still belt one out, and has no problem hamming it up for his adoring crowd.

The show opened with a relatively brief medley from disco-era greats Instant Funk who are tight as can be. They proceeded to back Sigler, who with the exception of a short rest while the band did their classic “I Got My Mind Made Up,” did ninety straight minutes of classic soul and everything in-between. Billed as “The Philly Soul Experience,” it was great hearing him do “Me and Mrs. Jones,” “For the Love of Money,” “Disco Inferno,” “Blue Suede Shoes,” “Ain’t No Stopping Us Now,” and other gems which he made his own.

Sigler could sing the phone book and it would be worth hearing. He even did a smooth Sinatra cover and an a cappella snippet of opera.

The only miscalculation on Bunny’s part was utilizing a music video of his new song with subtitles as his finale. It was meant to be a sing-a-long, but I was so distracted by the many misspellings (loose for lose, etc.) that it took away from it. But, hey, maybe that’s just the writer in me.

What was wonderful about the gig was that each and every audience member left that venue smiling. And it went far beyond nostalgia; it was a truly excellent show by a master showman who we all hope will return to the Big Apple shortly. Sigler warmed up a cold night with some great memories and musicianship and what can be better than that?

--Evan Ginzburg

www.legendsradio.net

Anthony Hamilton at The Apple Store NYC 12/13/11

2011-12-14T20:22:00.000-08:00

I went to see Anthony Hamilton yesterday at The Apple Store in NYC where he showed his new video, was interviewed in a Q&A headed by a writer from Essence (later taking questions from the audience), and then did a 3 song set with his live band which all were from his new CD.

I was impressed that it was also being recorded for later airing on the Net and there was a decent enough amount of promotion by RCA that I actually heard about the appearance, which isn’t always the case.

“Did you hear The Roots were here last week?” an employee asked me.

“Um, no.”

Thus goes it generally. Imagine that- a record company getting behind a quality artist who isn’t a kid making great, old school sounding music. Bravo to RCA for pushing Hamilton like this, who also did an earlier in-store at J&R the same day in NY.

In person Hamilton comes off as totally warm, sincere, passionate about what he does, and respectful of those who came before him, singing the praises of such diverse artists as Al Green, Earth, Wind and Fire, Jodeci and others whose names escape me.

Hamilton’s a great singer and live performer as well, and the three song set was the perfect tease that made we want to own the CD and see him live in a full show.

Which brings me to my only complaint. I had cash money ready to buy two CDs for Christmas presents. None were on sale there. They were hawking downloads. For someone with an old school audience, don’t the “suits” realize, some of us “oldheads” just don’t do the download thing? Money in hand and nobody to take it. Now THAT’S not good business.

Regardless, it was a lovely event with a warm feel to it. And the CD itself is great and maybe the “album of the year.” (If they still use that term?).

By the way, his song “The Point of It All,” from the previous CD remains one of my all-time favorite songs.

Anthony Hamilton, is an artist with class, integrity, dignity, taste, and sheer talent, all of which show in his work. That’s not a typical combination in 2011 going on 2012. I hope it sells a million copies. Or downloads if you will.

--Evan Ginzburg

www.legendsreadio.net

Dylan Tribute/Raging Grannies at Gizzi's NYC this Friday!

2011-12-14T17:22:00.000-08:00

Gizzi’s this Friday Dec.16- 16 W 8^th St. NYC No Cover! Great food/drinks/desserts/ambiance/nice folk!

Huge Bob Dylan Tribute this Friday with master musicians Backwards Jupiter!
Raging Grannies (as seen on CNBC at Occupy Wall Street) this Friday
Eclectic young stars Jordan Cooper and Chad D return Friday

· 7PM The Raging Grannies featuring Pamela Drake- As seen on CNBC at Occupy Wall Street!!!

· The NYC Metro Raging Grannies are the New York City "gaggle" of an international coalition of mature women who sing original political parodies in their ongoing quest for peace, justice, human rights and a green planet. The Raging Grannies started in British Columbia, Canada in 1987 and are now in Europe, the Middle East and Asia as well as all over North America. www.nycmetro.raginggrannies.org

· 8PM Jordan Cooper

Jordan Cooper lives in Queens, NY and has been writing, recording and performing music for over 10 years. He has created over 1000 pieces of music, including over 200 songs, various instrumentals and film scores. He has been performing live for years as a solo musician and in several bands.

· 9PM Chad D

I'm an ambitious artist launching my music career. I make music. I write & compose. I perform my music live - on stage. I connect with you. I bring you to the front lines of your emotions with my rapping, singing and performance. I make eye contact with you. I am your friend and I believe in who you are.

10PM Backwoods Jupiter, made up of Fred Gillen, Jr., Matt Turk, Steve Kirkman, Tadd Kroneck, Debbie Tuzman, Elliott Glick, Curtis Schmidt, Phil Dollard, Eric Puente, Scott Urgola, Paul Silverman and Julie CorbalisReleased to coincide with the 35th anniversary of the Billboard-chart topping album, Backwoods Jupiter Presents Bob Dylan's Desire re-captures that mid-70s feeling and celebrates the art and passion of one of the greatest American songwriters. See them in their Gizzi's debut this Friday!

Leon Ware- Concert Review NYC 11/28/11

2011-11-29T19:54:00.000-08:00

Concert Review

Leon Ware –

The Blue Note NYC 11/28/11

Leon Ware has written and co-written some of the greatest and most beloved songs of the 20^th Century.

The fact that he isn’t a household name is practically criminal.

Writing hits for and with the likes of Marvin Gaye, Michael Jackson, Minnie Ripperton, Maxwell, Quincy Jones and many others, his rare NYC appearance was a must see for this longtime fan.

The charming and debonair Mr. Ware spread out on a dozen or so of his classics including “I Wanna Be Where You Are,” “If I Ever Lose This Heaven,” “Inside My Love,” the Maxwell smash, “Sumthin’, Sumthin’” and a trio of gems from Marvin Gaye’s I Want You. Backed by a stellar band featuring piano great Onaje Allan Gumbs and remarkable singer, Maya Azucena, the now 71 year old seduced the thoroughly appreciative crowd as they perfectly walked that wonderful line between great jazz and R&B.

Throughout the evening, Ware jumped on and off stage, greeting one and all, and even kissing hands of the swooning ladies. An old school showman with a soulful, tender voice, he clearly loves what he does and even commented on how proud he was of the many babies his love songs have resulted in.

As Ware ended the evening he graciously thanked the audience again and again. Inspired and deeply moved by the musical magic I had witnessed, I did something I’ve never, ever done at a performance. Suddenly, almost without realizing it, I shouted in return, “Thank YOU.” Getting a warm smile and thumbs up from the legend, it was the icing on the cake of a perfect show.

Yes, thank you to an American treasure whose music will live forever. May he one day get the mass recognition he so readily deserves.

--Evan Ginzburg Legends Radio

www.legendsradio.net

Friday Nov. 11 at Gizzi's Cafe

2011-11-09T16:29:00.000-08:00

Friday Nov. 11at Gizzi's Cafe 16 W 8th St. NYC Never a cover! Great food/desserts/drinks/ambiance/nice folk!

7PM- Billy Likitsakos Jazz Duo www.facebook.com/billy.likitsakos

8PM- 'Linton Smith II' jazz ensemble http://www.facebook.com/pages/Linton-Smith-II/

9PM- LEIGH HARRISON is a life-long songwriter and composer, whose work weaves threads of folk, rock, pop, country, blues, old-timey jazz, bluegrass, and Western swing. Her original songs may be heard on her CD's, "Eclectic Chanteuse," and "Oh, Wow!," both released by SongCrew Music. As a travelling troubadour, she spent time with numerous musicians and performers such as Jerry Garcia, Janis Joplin, Jimi Hendrix, John Lennon, Yoko Ono, Johnny Winter, Mick Jagger and Albert King and has played with Jaco Pastorius, Moogy Klingman, Charles Otis, and others. Leigh has performed in numerous venues; her videos and recordings are on YouTube and her website: www.leighharrison.com

10PM- John Henry Band- A little bit of Soul, blues, rock, reggae, gospel, driven by a Les Paul or a plain old Gibson. www.johnhenryband.com

These legends have appeared on Legends Radio!

2011-11-05T12:56:00.001-07:00

Evan Ginzburg’s Legends Radio co-hosted by Dr. Mike Lano

Heard Wednesdays 7:00-9:20 PM EST on www.legendsradio.net Archived 24/7

Featuring the biggest legends live on air in the Arts, music, and sports

Heard in U.S., U.K., Germany, Canada, Russia, Estonia, France, South Korea, Japan, UAE, Australia, New Zealand, Taiwan, Chile, Brazil

Heard by an average of 5,000 listeners a week

Musical guests have included:

Ray Manzarek of The Doors

Billy Corgan of Smashing Pumpkins
Billy Paul

James Moody
Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Grandmaster Melle Mel

Roberta Flack

Judy Collins

Fred Wesley

Jimmy Webb

Sugar Pie DeSanto

William Hart of the Delfonics

Norman Carter of The Delfonics

Dr. Salaam Love of the Delfonics

Wendell Sawyer of Blue Magic

Marshall Thompson of the Chi-Lites
Eban Brown- current lead singer of The Stylistics

Syl Johnson

Eddie Jobson of Roxy Music and King Crimson and U.K.

Mighty Sam McClain

Tower of Power’s Doc Kupka

Canned Heat’s Stanley Behrens

Ron Dante of the Archies

Handsome Dick Manitoba of the Dictators

Wendell Holmes of the Holmes Brothers

Fats Gallon- funk drummer

Music journalism great Ben Fong-Torres

JD Allen

Jazz great Connie Crothers

Lock from The Dramatics

Jazz Bassist Christopher Dean Sullivan

Smooth jazz star Eddie Benitez

Jazz great Azar Lawrence

Blues great Candye Kane

Wanda Vaughn (The Emotions)
Wayne Vaughn (Producer/Writer Earth, Wind & Fire)

Ron Carter of the Persuaders

Violent J of Insane Clown Posse

The Shirts

Malo

Carlton J. Smith

Ned Massey

Theresa Sareo

Ekayani and Tom Glide

L.A.W.

Michael McHugh

Black Rock Coaltion

Blues ace Felix Cabrera

Blues great Robert Ross

Will Lee

Coole High

SoSoon

Edwin Vazquez

Luanne Surace

Plus countless talent deserving wider recognition!

Stars of Comedy have included:

David Alan Grier (In Living Color)

Marc Maron

Brent Weinbach,

Ian Edwards

Amy Schumer,

Ralphie May,

Gina Yashere

Dobie Maxwell
Dom Irrera

Pat Cooper

30 Rock’s Judah Friedlander

Heather McDonald (Chelsea Lately)

Jackie “The Jokeman” Martling

Shelly Berman

Norm McDonald (Saturday Night Live)

Robert Shields of Shields and Yarnell

Will Durst

Hal Lipson

Stars from MOVIES and TV have included:

Jenny McCarthy

Sherwood Schwartz (Creator Brady Bunch)

Robert Vaughn

Marilyn Michaels

Rona Barrett

Larry Flynt

Jack LaLanne

Celebrity Chef Joey Altman (Food Network)

Galloping Gourmet Graham Kerr

Chauncey Hayden

Marta Kristen (Lost in Space)

Barry Blaustein
Wally “Famous” Amos

Noel (Lois Lane) Neill

Nicole Bass

Dr. Victoria Zdrok

Roddy Piper

Chris Jericho

Chuck McCann

Beverly Washburn

King of the B Films- Conrad Brooks

Tony Burton (Apollo Creed’s cornerman)

Karen Lynn Gorney (Saturday Night Fever)
Roy Frumkes (The Substitute franchise)

Ed “Kookie” Byrnes 77 Sunset Strip

Sunset Thomas

Annie Sprinkle

Georgina Spelvin

Seka

Juliet Anderson

Magician Joshua Jay

Al Guthertz- Hollywood Reporter/Variety
Pulitzer nominated playwright/Obie Award winner Kristoffer Diaz
Johnny Fairplay (Survivor)

Linda Hogan (Hogan Knows Best)

And many more…

Stars of professional wrestling and MMA have included:

Bruno Sammartino
SuperStar Billy Graham

Pat Patterson

Jackie Fargo

Ivan Putski

Dory Funk, Jr.

Harley Race
Stan Hansen

Superfly Snuka

Austin Aries

Honkytonk Man

Tyler Black

Jerry Lynn
Frank Shamrock

Awesome Kong
Mia St. John

Nigel McGuiness

Butcher Paul Vachon

Kamala

Sid Eudy

Sonny King
Nikolai Volkoff

Les Thornton

Gene Kiniski

Jimmy Valiant

Johnny Valiant

Kevin Sullivan

Colt Cabana

Bob Roop

Dawn Marie
Tito Santana

Brutus Beefcake

Melissa Coates

Danny Hodge

Judy Martin

Eric Bischoff

The Destroyer

Lanny Poffo

DDP

Afa

Bobby Heenan

Chris Masters

Ox Baker

Molly Holly

Baron Von Rashke

Greg Valentine

Magnum T.A.
Christie Hemme

Necro Butcher

Larry Zybysko

Tracie Brooks

Jake The Snake Roberts
Blackjack Mulligan

Mustapha Saed

Teddy Hart

RVD

Earl Maynard

Manny Fernandez

Baby Doll

Savio Vega

JJ Dillon

Dr. Death Steve Williams

Missy Hiatt

Mean Gene Okerlund

Jimmy Hart

Daniel Puder
Al Snow

Steve Corino

Kimberly Page
Bill Watts
D Lo Brown

Dutch Savage

Sonjay Dutt
Hillbilly Jim

Buddy Landell
Juventud Guerrero

Tommy Rich

ODB

Bryan Alvarez

Ted Dibiase

Percy Pringle (Paul Bearer)

Jim Cornette

Austin Idol

Chris Nowinski

Ivan Koloff

Ox Baker

Zach Gowen

Tony Atlas

Jerry Jarrett

And countless others…

Evan Ginzburg is a 20 plus year radio veteran formerly with 50,000 Watt WBAI-FM 99.5 NYC (Pacifica Radio). He is the Associate Producer and appears as himself in The Wrestler starring Mickey Rourke. He is a Producer on the upcoming documentaries Theresa Sareo-Alive Again (www.aliveagainmovie.com) and Tiger Khan- Fire in the Blood.

Dr. Mike Lano is a journalist and photographer since 1966 whose work has appeared in worldwide media including the U.S., Japan, Mexico and numerous books.

Legends Radio is produced and engineered by Rick Hendrickson who also appears on air as our in-house MMA expert.

Legends Radio is graciously sponsored by Scott Epstein’s P.M.S. Publicity Management Services- talent bookings/personal appearances/press releases- magazine & newspaper spot listings/TV & Radio appearances. Scott Epstein- Publicist/Journalist/Photographer- “The Double Exposure that Works!”

All interviews are done at the guest’s convenience via phone. Inexpensive sponsorship/advertising opportunities available- inquire at evan_ginzburg@yahoo.com. Reach thousands worldwide weekly with the most eclectic show on radio.

More guests are being added to the Big Event Wrestling show.

2011-10-31T18:03:00.000-07:00

More guests are being added to the Big Event Wrestling show.

Posted on 10/31/2011 by admin

The Big Show November 12 2011 from 10:00Am to 2:00Pm

Coming to Queens New York at the Courtyard Marriott hotel near LaGuardia Airport.
9010 Ditmars Blvd. East Elmhurst N.Y
The hotel is located 5 minutes from LaGuardia Airport.

The Show was originally canceled by TMART but we decided to bring our guests and invite everyone to build back the convention. We are not part of TMART in any way shape or form. We just want to make the fans happy.

Guests for the show include

Super Star Billy Grahm Via Publicity Management Services Auto $20 Photo Op $20 Combo $30

Jake the Snake Roberts Auto $20 Photo Op $20 Combo $30

Ashley Massaro Auto $20 Photo Op $20 Combo $30

Velvet Sky Auto $15 Photo Op $15 Combo $25

Angelina Love Via Wrestling Spectacular Auto $15 Photo Op $15 Combo $25

Brutus the Barber Beefcake Prices TBD

Sunny Prices TBD

Luke Robinson Prices TBD

OX Baker Auto $10 Photo Op $10

Howard Finkel Prices TBD

Shimmer star, Jessica James Prices TBD

Johnny Valiant Prices TBD

Crimson Via Wrestling Spectacular Auto $15 Photo Op $15 Combo $25

Hacksaw Jim Duggan Via Royal Collectibles

Cookie Via Royal Collectibles

Amazing Red Auto $10 Photo Op $10

Jay Lethal Prices TBD

Jimmy Superfly Snuka Prices TBD

More guests to be announced Admission is $5 and the first 200 fans will get a autographed 8×10 from a previous signing.

If anyone is interested in bringing in a guest or a Table please email us. For more information please call Tommy 347 992 0038

Rate this

Posted in Upcoming Appearances | Tagged autograph signing, la guardia airport convention, the big event queens ny, the big show queens ny, wrestling convention, wrestling show | Leave a comment

The Big Show lives and is still on. Wrestling Fans will love the show

Posted on 10/20/2011 by admin

The Big Show November 12 2011 from 10:00Am to 2:00Pm

Coming to Queens New York at the Courtyard Marriott hotel near LaGuardia Airport.
9010 Ditmars Blvd. East Elmhurst N.Y
The hotel is located 5 minutes from LaGuardia Airport.

Guests for the show include

Super Star Billy Grahm

Jake the Snake Roberts

Ashley Massaro

Velvet Sky

Angelina Love

Brutus the Barber Beefcake

Sunny

Luke Robinson

OX Baker

Howard Finkel

Shimmer star, Jessica James

Johnny Valiant

Crimson

Hacksaw Jim Duggan

Cookie

More guests to be announced Admission is $5 and the first 200 fans will get a autographed 8×10 from a previous signing.

If anyone is interested in bringing in a guest or a Table please email us. For more information please call Tommy 347 992 0038

104

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YOUR Pro Wrestling presents Prologue

2011-10-30T21:21:00.001-07:00

YOUR Pro Wrestling presents Prologue
Saturday, November 5th at 8:00PM
90 Fleet Street, Jersey City, NJ
Tickets available via
www.yourprowrestling.com
or
(201)222-3582

Come out and see the debut of YOUR Pro Wrestling, featuring:

"The Fallen Angel" Christopher Daniels
Eddie Kingston
Ricky Reyes
Gran Akuma
Pinkie Sanchez
The Batiri
& Many More...

Youth & Originality with Unbelievable Ringwork, these are the qualities needed by wrestlers to be a part of this company. This company will not set out to appeal to the commercial masses & the non-wrestling fans, this company is here to captivate the true wrestling fans and give them exactly what they want to see. In this company the fans are involved in making the decisions; from determining matches prior to shows, to becoming a part of the broadcast team at live events, all the way to picking special features on DVDs. Here, your opinion means not just something, but everything. A big difference from YOUR and other companies, is the ideology of the champions. Here, no champion trumps another, there is no ""mid-carder"" belt, all wrestlers are created equal, and therefore so are championships. Every title as well as it's division gets just as much focus as the next and is held in the same regards of credibility and accomplishment. We are simply giving the pro wrestling fanbase what they want and how they want it. We aren't reinventing the wheel, we're just letting you drive the car.

Matches Announced So Far:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_dWN2Pv6NrQ

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0o4WBbDdGmA

Welcome to YOUR PRO WRESTLING, it's all YOURs.

The Big Show Lives- official poster for 11/12 Queens, NY Wrestling Convention

2011-10-28T21:37:00.001-07:00

THE BIG SHOW NOV. 12 WRESTLING CONVENTION UPDATED

2011-10-25T19:47:00.000-07:00

THE BIG SHOW
WRESTLING RESURRECTION CONVENTION

Where:

Courtyard Marriott LaGuardia Airport
NY

When:
Saturday November 12, 2011 from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM EST
Add to my calendar

featuring

Superstar Billy Graham
(AGAINST MEDICAL ADVICE)
The For the FANS SACRIFICE TOUR
Also Featuring: JAKE "The Snake" Roberts
TNA KNOCKOUT CHAMPION VELVET SKY
WWE Hall of Famer HOWARD FINKEL
WWE Hall of Famer TAMMY "SUNNY" SYTCH
BRUTUS "The Barber" BEEFCAKE
TNA KNOCKOUT ANGELINA LOVE
ASHLEY MASSARO
LUSCIOUS JOHNNY VALIANT
USA TV's TOUGH ENOUGH LUKE ROBINSON

The owners of SPORTS FAN PROMOTIONS have taken incredible action after learning only 48 hours ago that the company TMART has cancelled the BIG EVENT for 11/11 & 11/12 at the COURTYARD LAGUARDIA AIRPORT HOTEL in NY. Many vendors and talent had already made their plans including air reservations and have turned down other potential bookings. "I don't know if I'd ever have SUPERSTAR BILLY GRAHAM again at a signing, or even see him agian, " said PMS COO Scott Epstein. Epstein has been Graham's personal friend and exclusive agent since 1974. "Due to Billy's handicapping conditions and his size he needs to fly First Class. He insisted on doing this Convention in spite of it being AGAINST MEDICAL ADVICE", Epstein recently said on a radio show. Round trip air fare from Phoenix Arizona to NYC can range from $1300-$2500 and as Epstein puts it, "Stuff happens and if I had to take a hit on the airfare I would chalk it up to a business risk. For all I know there could be an early snowstorm, or what happened to me when Hurricane Irene prevented Christy Hemme & Traci Brooks from getting to a K & S Convention in Philly from TNA TV. I am extremely gratelful that SPORTS FAN PROMOTIONS for their dedication to the fanbase out there to pick up this Convention," a joyful Epstein added.
Epstein further remarked, " I am very confident this one is gonna be HUGE. i've been around the business since 1974 and remember the very first Convention was in this same building. I truly feel it's going to open up the door for wrestling fans, old and new, who may not be able to attend the multiple similar events in New Jersey like LOTR or in Philly presented by K & S. The transportation is easy and inexpensive via MTA bus, subway, and/or LIRR. I anticipate many Long Islanders and folks from the 5 boros to come out for autographs and photo ops especially from the Legendary SUPERSTAR BILLY GRAHAM, a New York favorite."
There is no VIP ticket involved and GENERAL ADMISSION is only $5;00. SPORTS FAN PROMOTIONS is also giving out a free autographed 8x10 photo from a previous signing to all who attend.

For further Info: www.sportsfanpromotions.com

QUEENS, NEW YORK NOVEMBER 12 WRESTLING CONVENTION, “THE BIG SHOW” LIVES

2011-10-22T11:06:00.000-07:00

QUEENS, NEW YORK NOVEMBER 12 CONVENTION, “THE BIG SHOW” LIVES AND IS STILL ON. STAR-STUDDED LINE UP ANNOUNCED

SuperStar Billy Graham, Jake “The Snake” Roberts, Brutus Beefcake, Howard Finkle, Ox Baker, and beautiful divas appear in this huge event

New York, October 22, 2011- On Nov. 12, 2011 from 10 AM to 2 PM, one of the biggest conventions ever to hit New York, “The Big Show”, comes to Queens New York at the Courtyard Marriott Hotel near LaGuardia Airport. The hotel is located 5 minutes from LaGuardia Airport at 9010 Ditmars Blvd. in East Elmhurst N.Y.

The Show was originally canceled by T-MART but we decided to bring our guests and invite everyone to build back the convention. We are not part of T-MART in any way shape or form; we just want to make the fans happy.

Guests for the show include SuperStar Billy Graham, Jake “The Snake” Roberts, Brutus “The Barber” Beefcake, Howard Finkle, Ashley Massaro, Velvet Sky, Angelina Love, Sunny, Ox Baker and more guests to be announced.
Admission is only $5 and the first 200 fans will get an autographed 8×10 from a previous signing.

If anyone is interested in bringing in a guest or a table please email us. For more information please call Tommy at 347-992-0038.

If you should have any questions or to purchase advance tickets for this event, please e-mail Brian at: brianbarthnj@aol.com

Visit www.sportsfanpromotions.com for details on this event and to see our extensive list of sports legends we’ve booked over the years. Consider our incredible talent roster for your next function, and visit our online store as well.
Listen to some of the superstars from the convention on Legends Radio, heard Wednesdays 7-9:20 PM EST at www.legendsradio.net

We look forward to seeing you Saturday November 12 when some of the greatest wrestling superstars of all-time come to Queens. Don’t you dare miss it.

Contacts:

Tommy 347-992-0038

Brian Barth brianbarthnj@aol.com

Evan Ginzburg, Publicist evan_ginzburg@yahoo.com

www.sportsfanpromotions.com

SoSoon Gizzi's Residency this Tuesday- Hip Hop/R&B/Spoken word & more...

2011-10-09T09:57:00.001-07:00

Support this great live musical event...

2011-10-08T11:58:00.000-07:00

Pound of Cure:
A Gregg Swann Tribute
October 15 7PM Parkside Lounge
317 E. Houston St.
NYC

Join friends, family and fans for an evening of Gregg Swann's music performed by his band and guest artists, including:
Alan Brock
Peter Chance
Jeff Gurner
Ethan Hartshorn
Jerry Pilato
Theresa Sareo
John Swann

Contact: gstribute@gmail.com

Please consider honoring Gregg's legacy by supporting:

Stand Up To Cancer
standup2cancer.org

Our BIll Kunkel has left the building by Mike Lano

2011-09-04T20:28:00.000-07:00

Our BIll Kunkel has left the building

by Mike Lano

RIP Billy (who I stayed in contact with since we became pals in '72 while shooting WWWF stuff ringside

Just seconds ago received an email from Karen saying Billy Kunkel had passed away. Wasn’t it just days ago he, Phantom, Karen, Bill’s loving wife Laurie and I were all emailing back and forth about some ridiculous thing in wrestling like Matt Hardy’s behavior or WWE blowing CM Punk’s momentum? But this isn’t some ridiculous storyline. This is a real and true family member. Gone? Why?

Bill, I’m hoping this is just your possible Andy Kaufmanesque rib and that we’ll learn you’re alive and well. But I know Laurie and Karen would never make light of something this serious. That makes it really tougher to digest and process.

Bill and Arnie Katz were “it” back east (before he and Laurie moved more recently to Vegas, then Michigan) in the early 70′s. They had one of the earliest wrestling radio shows ever, alongside that of Bill Apter (which catapulted him to becoming my editor at Stanley Weston’s magazines, and Bill said he helped his two friends out, and there was a lot of mutual respect.) They produced programs and magazines for WWWF, they shot alongside me, George N, Apter, Frank Amato and others ringside at MSG, Boston Garden, Philly Spectrum and other Vince Sr. venues along with tv. Bill also was the master at making fun of perhaps the worst wrestling radio show of all time in Jimmy Mack and Jay Rose circa 1975, which we’d bring up and recollect for years and years. Few remembered their dates and history like Billy. Forgive me if I continually call him a genius. But Phantom and guys, wasn’t he? He was.

Bill accomplished all the above with style, and far more. Then he re-invented himself in the 80′s and became the premiere wrestling comic writer and cartoon artist which turned into a major computer game and design career for a real genius, sharp guy, great friend to all. Bill and I wrote weekly columns for the Torch, (until Bill led a revolt and exodus of some writers when we weren’t getting paid, and which we later made up just fine with WK) Pro Wrestling Sushi, and Ron Lemieux’s Arena to name a few. (Arena became Chairshots which begat Dave Scherer). Also MMA guru Jeff Osborne’s fledglingCasette Wrestling News Sheet, Shenaomake Post and others. And Billy did all the sarcastic cartoons for my last newsletter series – Wrestling Wreality - througout the 90′s. Bill and Phantom did the serious journalism thing together at the award-winning Wrestling Perspective newsletter (plus they had been writer/editors at the old Wrestling Eye magazine as well as others I believe, doing their best with Carmine D/Eubie Marx).

There really wasn’t anything the always young and vital wrestling/computer “hippie/artist/genius” hadn’t done spectacularly and succeeded at.

After several decades of only talking by phone or doing Vegas radio together with another deceased close mutual pal of ours in Rick “Hotline” Carter, Billy and I got together at one of the last Moolah/Mae Young LIWA convention messes in Vegas at what Bill called “the worst casino/hotel for tourists” in the Union Plaza dump. We had a blast making fun of the place and snapped pictures bigtime capturing the looks on the faces of Bull Nakano, Akira Hokuto, and their mothers from Japan, when Pat Patterson pulled down the drawers of Red Bastien at the podium showing what Billy called “that Red really is a natural red.”

So many wonderful memories just on my end with Bill Kunkel. I know Phantom will write the definitive on him, as they were in even greater contact. We had our own health scare a while back with Phantom, and praise everyone, he came back and is hopefully 100% now and feeling great.

So why, why is Bill gone at so young an age? I know it’s selfish to think that, but it’s a painful loss for all of us. And especially Laurie and the family – I can’t even comprehend what they’re going through. We’re all probably shocked and totally out of it losing this dear friend so suddenly. The only thing I can think of amidst the grief, is God Bless Bill (I’m sure he was Agnostic), but God Bless Saint Bill anyway. And thank whoever our maker is for giving him to us, allowing us the time we did have with wonderful Bill.

Love and prayers to Laurie at this incredibly awful time. We’re all in shock and miss ‘ya, ‘ya big galoot.

Journalism (not just wrestling journalism) has lost a giant. So I’m sure Bill right now is asking Sheik, Frank Goodish, Blassie and Tolos, Baron Scicluna and Killer Kowalski to pose while he snaps pix and draws their caricatures.

Nick Ashford and Jerry Leiber die

2011-08-22T21:04:00.000-07:00

I am so incredibly saddened by the deaths of Nick Ashford of Ashford and Simpson ("Ain't No Mountain High Enough" and "Ain't Nothing Like the Real Thing," along with "You're All I Need To Get By. and Jerry Leiber of Leiber and Stoller (Clovers ("Love Potion No. 9"), the Drifters ("Ruby Baby"), the Cheers ("Black Denim Trousers and Motorcycle Boots"), the Robins ("Smokey Joe's Cafe," "Riot in Cell Block No. 9") and, especially, a Robins' spinoff group that Leiber and Stoller helped create, the Coasters ("Searchin'," "Yakety Yak," "Poison Ivy," "Charlie Brown," "Down in Mexico," "Little Egypt").

I saw Ashford and Simpson live many times in NYC and they were among my all-time favorites and brilliant live performers.

With these two great songwriters gone, it’s like a 1-2 punch to the art of songwriting. How many folk are left who can write perfect 3 or 4 minute R&B and pop tunes that will last forever?
A sad day for the music business and music lovers alike.

Evan Ginzburg

www.legendsradio.net

www.evanginzburg.com

Music in France

2011-08-22T05:41:00.000-07:00

I just got back from 12 days in France and have some observations re: the music there.

First off, it appeared to me that their tastes are far more eclectic. The friends and acquaintances I spent time with in 5 or so cities loved everything from African music to Salsa to jazz to French pop to bad American imported dance music, etc. It just didn’t seem like the line was drawn in the sand between different genres like they do here in the U.S.. MTV over there even has an R&B show. And on that show the music is also mixed- with straight up soul, neo-soul, world music of all kinds, and sometimes it’s in French and sometimes in English and sometimes even both on the same song/video. It’s more an “if we like it we’ll play it no matter what” kind of vibe then you’d get in America. Ditto at their parties where they play everything regardless of language or genre. There just seems to be a real love and respect for music of all kinds.

I was also amazed at a 30 minute interview I saw with Herbie Hancock on prime time TV there, treating him like a revered elder. You know for a fact that if he were on a talk show here in America, they’d generally let him play one song and wouldn’t even invite him on the chair. Or he’d be the last 3 or so minute segment on a 30 minute show plugging his latest CD. Respect, what a concept.

The subways there also had music piped in. Imagine, clean, efficient subways, with nice music to listen to. On a fraction of New York’s budget. Efficiency is a beautiful thing.

And in a park in Toulousse I saw something wonderful. Over the course of a few hours, in the center of the city outdoors at the Capitol building there were 3 live bands absolutely free. One was Italian and they were multi-lingual, performing songs in Italian, French and English. It was just a beautiful vibe and they combined it with a female dancer and juggler to really put on a show. Later there was an African band. And later a more traditional French accordionist. Again, music in all languages and styles for folk who truly appreciate it.

America could learn a lot about music appreciation from our French brothers and sisters for sure.

And by the way, I found the vast majority of folk there to be warm, friendly, gracious and hospitable. Taste in music and nice folk. What a combination.

Evan Ginzburg

www.legendsradio.net

www.evanginzburg.com

Upcoming Aug. shows at Gizzi's Cafe presented by Evan Ginzburg

2011-08-05T06:53:00.001-07:00

Gizzi's Cafe 16 W 8th St. NYC- NEVER A COVER
Great food/alcohol/ambiance/desserts/coffee/nice folk!

Friday August 5

7:00 PM Susannah Conn

9PM Lace Lavon R&B

10PM Samuel R. Saffery From New Zealand

Monday August 8

7PM Marc Pressman(CD Release) Blues

8PM Sally featuring Jordan Cooper eclectic pop/rock/alternative

9PM Chad Douglas

Tuesday August 9 James “SoSoon” Gantt Residency

Spoken word/R&B/jazz/hip hop meets music of all genres

7PM Stacee Mandeville blues/jazz

8PM SoSoon Residency

9PM Omni Blaize

There are few artists that display a chameleon-like versatility when it comes to music. OMNI Blaize displays such ability through playing various instruments (guitar, bass, keyboard) as well as his most powerful musical tool--his voice. With the combination of a church-singing background as well as frequenting various emcee competitions and showcases, he has emerged as an impressive fusion of soul music and hip hop.
Not only has his talents provided him with numerous showcase opportunities in New York (Best Buy, Sullivan Hall, Apollo Theatre), they have also taken him around the world and back. In February 2009, OMNI was part of a hip hop/R&B collective, Vice Verse Allstars, that was sent by Jazz at Lincoln Center to be musical ambassadors to countries in West Africa, including Cote d'Ivoire, Togo, and Mauritania where he collaborated with several local artists.
His original sound strives to carve out its own lane in music, creating a pangea of styles.

Friday August 12

7PM Billy Likitsakos Jazz

8PM Ron B and Mandola Joe

9PM Matthew Streppone

10PM Felix Cabrera and Robert Ross blues

Sunday August 14 Adam Schlacter Film Night BOOKED

Monday August 15

7PM Live classic concert footage on our giant screen

8PM ROGER ORTEGA

*Facebook/Roger Ortega

*Twitter/RnBPoPWrytr

*MySpace/Roger Ortega

*Youtube Channel/RnBPoPWrytr

Links/http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/pages/Roger-Ortega/191774214211771

http://www.myspace.com/rogerortegarogelio

"Step". http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=09WNCdW_2kM

9PM Kiernan McMullan

Not really being from anywhere has it's benefits. There is a refreshing perspective that comes when there is no one place you call home.

Born in Hong Kong and having grown up between Ireland and Boston to an Irish father and Australian mother it really isn't surprising that he finds it hard to stay in one place for too long.

In 2008 Kiernan signed his first record deal with Warner Brother's sub label 111 records. The record was released in November 2008 during a time when the music industry's financial crisis was in full swing.

"All i needed was a plane ticket over. I had no van yet so I spent the first 3 months on greyhound buses and hitchhiking. Let's just say every day was it's own story"

With nothing but a hiking bag and his guitar he hitched and bussed the length of the east coast and parts of the midwest playing shows every other day.

Fast forward to now and you find Kiernan with a van and an impressive musical resume. Having shared stages with everyone from Sheryl Crow, Colbie Callait and Sublime to Meg and Dia, Lisa Hannigan and The Proclaimers to name just a few.

It would appear that this is only the beginning. With his full length record "Perfect People are Boring" and his more recent acoustic E.P. "The Best Part" both released to a very enthusiastic grassroots following, the anticipation is building to here his newest record "Two Years" recorded in Ireland this year.

"It's my best attempt to take ten songs and try to tell the story of the last two years from me. There have been some of the highest highs and lowest lows of my entire life within this 730 day adventure from November 2nd 2008 to November 2nd 2010."

It looks like this is just the prologue of a bigger story that is far from over.

Tuesday August 16 James “SoSoon” Gantt Residency

Spoken word/R&B/jazz/hip hop meets music of all genres

7PM Edwin Vazquez

8PM Karen LeVine

9PM SoSoon Residency

Concert Review- Dr. John/Chuck Brown/Red Baarat

2011-08-04T08:45:00.001-07:00

Concert Review-

Dr. John/Chuck Brown/Red Baarat

Celebrate Brooklyn Festival at Prospect Park

July 30, 2011

There’s few things I enjoy more in life than a Chuck Brown concert. The Godfather of Go-Go is the musical equivalent of a “happy pill.”

When you see Chuck you know just what you are going to get- a ton of great musicians having fun, flawlessly mixing multiple styles of music behind that driving, endless, go-go beat.

Plus he always does, “Moody’s Mood for Love,” one of my all-time favorites.
75 year old Chuck just had a street named after him in Washington, DC and he’s always had his cult following here in the Big Apple, so with several thousand strong at the park, it just felt like a party.

In the “death slot” as virtually nobody can follow Chuck, was Dr. John who fared surprisingly well as he was in New Orleans’ party mode. The thoroughly enjoyable set saw the good doctor even do a few steps to charm the appreciative crowd.

Openers Red Baarat mixed Bollywood faves and originals and they truly made a “joyful noise.” They should have been allotted more than the 30 minutes they were given as they’re true crowd pleasers and the many late-comers missed them entirely.

All in the all the evening was an eclectic mix of sounds that sent the large throng home happy.

What more can you ask?

--Evan Ginzburg

www.legendsradio.net

Concert Review- Jose James

2011-08-04T08:34:00.000-07:00

Concert Review

Jose James- BAM R&B Fest Metro Tech Brooklyn

July 28, 2011

If you didn’t know singer Jose James, you’d assume he was a rapper.

Dressed casually and sporting a Yankees baseball cap on stage, even his mannerisms were more hip-hop than be-bop.

So when his sultry voice and topnotch ensemble triumphantly tackled numbers by Coltrane, Freddie Hubbard, Ray Charles and other classic jazz and R&B giants, it felt almost surprising. Actually, it seemed like a torch had been passed down.

Mixing covers and wonderful originals, James proved to be humble, gracious, and a bandleader who gave his group plenty of space to “stretch out.” The hour and a half just flew by. My 78 year old mom, who’s seen everyone from Bird to Ella to Sarah Vaughn to Art Tatum said, “He’s GOOD.” And when she says “good,” it means great.

James is that talent worthy of wider recognition that you pull for. Let’s hope that he avoids the pitfalls of the music industry and introduces a generation weaned on hip-hop to some classic music and his immense talent.

--Evan Ginzburg

www.legendsradio.net

Concert Review- Urban Guerilla Orchestra featuring Miles Jaye

2011-08-04T08:19:00.001-07:00

Concert Review- Urban Guerilla Orchestra featuring Miles Jaye

BAM R&B Fest Metro Tech Brooklyn

July 21, 2011

The Urban Guerilla Orchestra (UGO) is a prestigious combination of musicians and vocalists who appeared on countless hits for groups such as Michael Jackson, Quincy Jones, Aretha Franklin, Boyz II Men, Alicia Keys, Gladys Knight & the Pips, Kool & the Gang, The Roots and countless others.

Tight is the first adjective that comes to mind in describing the large ensemble.

Whether it was Teena Marie or War covers, these virtuoso artists don’t miss a note, and their lead vocalists were “right there,” doing the nearly impossible in making classics their own.

Special guest Miles Jaye joined them to do his ballads and he still has the voice and showmanship to make the ladies swoon.

I was also pleased to see the UGO have the business end of things taken care of as well- CDs, concert videos, T-Shirts were readily available as is the group itself for corporate events, high end weddings and concerts.

Bravo to that rarest of acts who mix art and commerce flawlessly.