HEADS UP! EVERYBODY! Tonite 6 – 9 pm Crowne Plaza Pub
ANNOUNCING THE RETURN OF RICK MARQUIS
ON VOCALS, BANJO, MANDOLIN, GUITAR & GENERAL MAYHEM !
INDEED, ‘TIS TRUE! Ricky is back! Don’t miss his first nite back !
TONITE! At the PUB AT THE CROWNE
THE DOSSERS!
With gene christy, bill morrison, and rick marquis !
Crowne Plaza Park Square downtown Pittsfield 6 – 9 pm
BRING YOUR FRIENDS, BRING YOUR RELATIONS! WE’RE A TRIO ONCE MORE!
IT’LL BE LIKE – DÉJÀ VU ALL OVER AGAIN !

BERKSHIRES MUSIC BEAT USA No. 30
songs of a coal miner’s son
====
A BLOG FOR MUSIC-LOVERS
With Gene Christy & Rod MacDow
episode thirty . . .
For sheer exuberance, it’s hard to match Andy Kelly! With a guitar strapped over his shoulder, his fingers flying, and his feet dancing, and his voice carrying the band with him—and his eclectic tastes—which make him a one-man museum of musical lore—
Well, why don’t we find out for ourselves what the magic is all about?
So, I did! I went around on a beautiful Sunday evening, in June, up to the Lodge on the Lake, on the 22nd—and recorded Andy Kelly live with one of his bands—just one of them at a time!—the Berkshire Dance-Kings!
So, it’s with great pleasure that I introduce The Berkshire Dance-Kings!
as our Featured Artist of the Week, here on
BERKSHIRES MUSIC BEAT USA !
Located on your online dial at genechristy.com.
So, let’s start the party with the Dance-King’s opening number from the night of the 22nd__
ROUTE 66
Route 66—what a way to go!
First stop!—the “Berkshire” Bar & Grille! where we can find posted on the back wall__the lineup!
ANDY KELLY__ LEAD VOC & ELEC LEAD GUITAR
DAVE HEALEY ON BASS & VOCALS
JOHN HADDAD ON DRUMS
BEN KOHN ON KEYBDS YAMAHA ELEC PIANO PLUS VOCALS
WOODY STROBECK ON TROMBONE
And the party rolled on with a hit song by none other than Sinatra himself—as interpreted here by the smooth-as-glass vocal of piano man Ben Kohn!
FLY ME TO THE MOON
Do I remember this song? Do I ever! We had it on our set-list back in ’61 when I was playing and singing it myself with a little pick-up band—I mean, they literally picked me up and I rode to the gig with my big black 120-bass acoustic 1956 Excelsior, which provided the keyboards for the evening, for company—in the back end of a pick-up truck! I was fifteen (15) years old! That night we traveled down Rte 28 to the Stardust Lounge in Reading, Massachusetts—and the memories we made!—there, and at The Riverview, out on the Lowell Boulevard, on the shores of the Merrimack River!—wow!
In those days, we seldom rocked out—the other guys in the quartet were a lot older than me—we weren’t “allowed” to play Rock’n’Roll!–but Andy Kelly—who’s a little younger than I am—
in addition to being a jazz aficionado—–is a veteran rocker! Listen to this!
ROCKIN’-OUT MEDLEY! JAILHOUSE ROCK / SPLISH-SPLASH!
I love the beat-the-band vocal by Andy singing out front and charging into that party-up! anthem. Andy’s fearless!—he’s takin’ on Elvis and Bobby Darin both in the same medley!
ANDY’S NEWEST FAN IS FROM DOWN SOUTH!
Just for a change of pace—did I once say Andy is nothing if not eclectic?—as well as electric! Let’s check it out when Andy decides to lead John Haddad down Caribbean-way into reggae waters—
I CAN SEE CLEARLY NOW
Andy did ask me one favor—he said don’t forget to mention my all-time favorite Irish screen legend—
Ah, indeed! Maureen O’Hara!
Now Berkshire County USA – – is nothing if it ain’t country!—as you can hear for yourself from the lips of a patron on the evening of the 22nd—and Andy Kelly was ready, willing and able to fulfill his wish!
HEY GOOD-LOOKIN’
GET OUTTA YOUR HOUSE! SHUT OFF THAT TV! GO SEE –AND HEAR – SOME OF THE AWESOME LIVE MUSIC BEING PERFORMED IN YOUR TOWN OR CITY OR COUNTY OR NEIGHBORHOOD—find your own Berkshire Dance-Kings!
We haven’t heard the last of Andy Kelly—not by a long-shot—stay tuned right here to
BERKSHIRES MUSIC BEAT USA !
And in a couple or three weeks time, Andy will be back with his other band—or one of them!—the Gypsy Jazz Ambassadors!
AND U DON’T WANNA MISS THAT!
Next up, next week, BOBBY SWEET & ANNIE GUTHRIE at the Spectrum in Lee—recorded live! right here at
genechristy.com
It’s the place to be! It’s TITANIC!
Meanwhile, visit the boys from the JP Murphy band at their own website at
http://www.jpmurphymusic.com/
Thanks again once more for being with us here at
. . . and remember, upcoming features will include such outstanding, notable, listenable performers as Tom Gardner, Dave Healey, and The Malibu Bros, this time with lovely lady lead vocalist Jeanne Laurin! Bill McElaney, currently back all the way from County Donegal and the streets of Dublin to the good ole USA after touring his home-base of Ireland—and of course—the summer season at Tanglewood, which this year, we will cover here at
BERKSHIRES MUSIC BEAT USA !
@ genechristy.com
visit our friends:
Bobby Sweet at http://bobbysweet.com/
Rakish Paddy at http://www.rakishpaddyband.com/
Eddie Dillon at http://clancybrothersandtommymakem.com/ed_01.htm
EDDIE DILLON WILL BE COMING TO THE BERSKHIRES THIS FALL! THAT’S IN THE AUTUMN OF THE YEAR! ALL YOU DEVOTEES OF THE CELTIC SCENE OUT THERE – WHO KNOW EDDIE AS A MEMBER OF THE NATIONAL TOURING CAST OF THE CLANCYS -STAY TUNED FOR FURTHER DETAILS, TO BE ANNOUNCED AS SOON AS AVAILABLE, HERE ON
BERKSHIRES MUSIC BEAT USA !
And don’t forget
Jessica Roemischer at http://pianobeautiful.com/
And Robin O’Herin at http://www.robinoherin.com/
And Champagne Jam at champagnejam.org
You can also follow all the doings at Tara’s Tipperary Tavern at

BERKSHIRES MUSIC BEAT USA No. 29
songs of a coal miner’s son
====
A BLOG FOR MUSIC-LOVERS
With Gene Christy & Rod MacDow
episode twenty-nine . . .
Well—it is indeed a pleasure to sit down to blogging today–
Because this group is, like, totally awesome!
One night I happened to drop in to the Marketplace Café & coffee shop
(beautiful downtown Pittsfield’s version of Starbucks
—only better!—with live music –several nights a week!)—
So–one night I happened to drop in–and what did I behold but one of the most exciting live performances of the year by this husband-and-wife team of Pittsfield school teachers, who moonlight as a cover band—and deserve, believe me, the widest possible audience!
So, it’s with great pleasure that I introduce Duffy & Erin!
as our Featured Artist of the Week, here on
BERKSHIRES MUSIC BEAT USA !
Located on your online dial at genechristy.com.
With a couple of guests sitting in—
well, you’ll see—we have, as usual, pictures and audio tracks and more! So, let’s start the party with Duffy & Erin’s rendition of the Don Henley tune,
BOYS OF SUMMER
Mike’s brother, Glenn Duffy, also sat in that night on keyboards–
GLENN! — A KEY PLAYER IN THE ENSEMBLE!
And the party rolled on with a hit song by Aviici–
HEY BROTHER
I MIGHT AS WELL JUST SHUT UP—and let you guys listen to this—with Glenn Duffy workin’ out strong on the keys on Daft Punk’s
GET LUCKY
I love the steamy vocals by Erin and Mike singing together—their timing is acute, their voices compliment, each-one for the other—it’s harmony!—so beautiful to see in a husband-and-wife team!—tight! But then good friend David Plante stepped up to the mike for an old favorite, to duet with his buddy Mike, on Simon and Garfunkel—
SOUNDS OF SILENCE
For one of the “other” generation, like myself, it was pure bliss!
Berkshire County USA – – blessed with bands you can dance to!—and!—how would you like to have Duffy and Erin in your school system! SINGING MOODY BLUES!
STORY IN YOUR EYES
Did I tell you I saw the Moody Blues in person way Bach when?—at the Orpheum in Boston—1968!—when they rolled onto the stage a something called a mellotron—back then, it was bigger than the guy who played it—you couldn’t see him sitting behind it!—an early precursor of what came to be known as the synthesizer! So, how awesome to find out, from Duffy and Erin, that the great masterworks of music in our time roll on from generation to generation—and genius will out in the end!
GET OUTTA YOUR HOUSE! SHUT OFF THAT TV! GO SEE –AND HEAR – SOME OF THE AWESOME LIVE MUSIC BEING PERFORMED IN YOUR TOWN OR CITY OR COUNTY OR NEIGHBORHOOD—find your own Duffy and Erin!
WE LIKE THE ONES WE GOT!
And you can hear them, and so many more, past and future, coming soon, no one-shot wonders, all worthy of return-and-repeat performance—there’s so much I just can’t get to all of it fast enough!
Tomorrow night going to see Bobby Sweet and Annie Guthrie at the Spectrum in Lee—Sunday night dance music by Country Club, with Jeanne Laurin singing lead, at the lodge on the lake—stay tuned, right here at genechristy.com for the next posting of
BERKSHIRES MUSIC BEAT USA !
It’s the place to be!
TOMORROW NIGHT—SATURDAY NIGHT IN AMERICA!—WITH
BOBBY SWEET & ANNIE GUTHRIE 8 PM THE SPECTRUM IN
LEE, MA TICKETS STILL AVAILABLE!
Bobby’s song “My Sweet” on ABC’s NASHVILLE!
Get Cowboys and Poets at CDBaby
Hey Sweet Music Fans,
So soon another Arlo Guthrie tour comes to an end. We had a great time on the “Here Comes The Kid(s) tour, and it’s great to be back home! Now that I’m back in The Berkshires, I’ll be sending more regular updates on my local shows, and look forward to seeing you.
Saturday, 6/28 8:00pm The Spectrum Playhouse w/Annie Guthrie.
Annie and I will be sharing the stage in an informal and intimate concert at The Spectrum Playhouse, located at 20 Franklin Street, in Lee, MA. The Spectrum is a beautiful stone church, converted into a performance space. For tickets and info call (413) 395-5023. SpectrumPlayhouse
The Spectrum Playhouse is a multi-purpose performance space hosting professional performing artists, theatre productions, concerts, lectures and more. Its primary mission is to develop the performing and visual arts talents of young adults with Asperger’s Syndrome, Autism, ADHD and other learning differences.
The former St. George’s Church at 20 Franklin Street in Lee, MA has undergone a transformation into the Spectrum Playhouse, Community Center and Joyous Studios. A proceeds generated from Spectrum Playhouse events benefit the creative development of young adults with learning differences.
Arlo Guthrie’s “Here Come the Kids” tour Live Album.
For you Arlo fans: Rising Son Records has just released a two CD live album from the tour. Get it at RisingSonRecords.
July dates coming soon…..Thanks for supporting live music!
Love & Peace- Bobby
Meanwhile, visit the boys from the JP Murphy band at their own website at
Thanks again once more for being with us here
Coming up next week—Andy Kelly’s Dance-Kings! Don’t miss it!
. . . and remember, upcoming features will include such outstanding, notable, listenable performers as Tom Gardner, Dave Healey, and the Gypsy Jazz Ambassadors—as well as return visits from The Malibu Bros, this time with lovely lady lead vocalist Jeanne Laurin, Bill McElaney, currently back all the way from County Donegal and the streets of Dublin to the good ole USA — and of course—the summer season at Tanglewood, which this year, we will cover here at
BERKSHIRES MUSIC BEAT USA !
@ genechristy.com
visit our friends:
Bobby Sweet at http://bobbysweet.com/
Rakish Paddy at http://www.rakishpaddyband.com/
Eddie Dillon at http://clancybrothersandtommymakem.com/ed_01.htm
EDDIE DILLON WILL BE COMING TO THE BERSKHIRES THIS FALL! THAT’S IN THE AUTUMN OF THE YEAR! ALL YOU DEVOTEES OF THE CELTIC SCENE OUT THERE – WHO KNOW EDDIE AS A MEMBER OF THE NATIONAL TOURING CAST OF THE CLANCYS -STAY TUNED FOR FURTHER DETAILS, TO BE ANNOUNCED AS SOON AS AVAILABLE, HERE ON
BERKSHIRES MUSIC BEAT USA !
And don’t forget
Jessica Roemischer at http://pianobeautiful.com/
And
Robin O’Herin at http://www.robinoherin.com/
And
champagnejam.orgnted variorish and a percussionist early on in life, he has
You can also follow all the doings at Tara’s Tipperary Tavern at

BERKSHIRES MUSIC BEAT USA No.28
songs of a coal miner’s son
====
A BLOG FOR MUSIC-LOVERS
With Gene Christy & Rod MacDow
episode twenty-eight . . .
IN THE TUNNEL
That was Patrick Gray, Sr. – – words and music by Patrick Gray, Sr.
Born and raised in Williamstown, as a young man, Patrick Gray resided for quite a significant time, in Springfield, the largest city in Western Massachusetts—known the world over as the place where Dr Naismith invented basketball, and today the home of the national basketball Hall of Fame—
but I believe that Patrick Gray, Sr, himself,
is one of the institutions of the Berkshires, in his own right–a native son that the hills have produced—as a folk performer, a storyteller, historian, singer/songwriter, chronicler of Celtic music, on many fine cds—and certainly one of the most fascinating and multi-talented individuals I’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting—and so, today’s
BERKSHIRES MUSIC BEAT USA !
Located on your online dial at genechristy.com.
is proud to present as our Featured Artist of the Week,
Patrick Gray, Sr
seen here as part of his trio, the band called J.P. Murphy, alongside his son, Patrick Gray, Jr—the trio also includes
Michael Burdick on percussion.
As an introduction to our listeners, readers and viewers out there, I cannot do better than to let Patrick speak for himself—and so, when I had a chance to interview him—I grabbed it!
You know, I said once, recently, that it’s truly a joy to spend your time traveling the Berkshires USA, listening to all the local bands—and never ceasing to be amazed that there is yet more out there!—waiting to be discovered.
And, last week or so—on a Wednesday, I think it was, Pat Gray and I met for lunch and told stories from the illustrious past to one another and shared our mutual love of song and story, and here’s the recorded-live interview that resulted—
INTERVIEW WITH PATRICK GRAY, SR__duration 9.56
Berkshire County USA – – blessed with bands you can dance to!—and!—our own home-grown historian-vocalist, Patrick Gray!
Let’s listen to him and his son, the other Patrick Gray, as well as their sidekick, Michael Burdick, on their rendition of
FINNEGAN’S WAKE
J.P. Murphy was formed in early 1991. Pat, Sr, sings lead and plays rhythm guitar or banjo, as well as an occasional harmonica. His love for his Irish heritage—his mother came from County Longford—the words and music he grew up with—made it a natural choice for him to form a traditional Irish group. Originally formed as a duo with son Patrick on guitar or mandolin and vocal harmonies, they performed in Orlando, Florida at Finnegan’s Pub in Universal Studios and various other pubs in the Orlando area until moving back to the Berkshires in 1993—where they soon turned into a three-man-band by adding drums, percussion and acoustic bass performed by life-long friend and relative, Michael Burdick.
DIRTY OLD TOWN by Ewan McColl
The group performs the traditional Irish music that reflects the struggle as well as the triumph of an enduring, fun-loving people—the drinking songs and the battle hymns, arranged and performed to get your foot stomping and your heart pounding while the hands keep clapping and the drink keeps flowing.
KELLY THE BOY FROM KILLANE
That being said, or sung, as the case may be, the Berskhires ain’t nothin’ if it ain’t the history written in the rocky faces of the hills and mountains, scoured by the falls and rapids and streams of the county, reflected in the weathered visages of the farmers and the townspeople—the sort who gave their lives and fortunes to the country all during the trying times of the 19th and 20th centuries, and still do today—so let’s sit back and let our storyteller, Patrick Gray, Sr, our local historian,
our own chronicler of the past, with his own composition, words and music—
FORBIDDEN MOUNTAIN
The next time you have the chance to visit North Adams, Massachusetts, drop into the local library, or the campus of Massachusetts College of the Liberal Arts, or the MassMOCA museum, and learn more about the authentic story of the Mohawk Trail—and catch Patrick Gray, father and son, with Michael Burdick, the J.P. Murphy group, playing their songs and stories from both sides of the Atlantic, at the Freightyard Pub, where good food, good beer and good times are to be had by all.
Meanwhile, visit the boys at their own website at
Thanks for being with us here at
BERKSHIRES MUSIC BEAT USA !
It’s the place to be! AT https://genechristy.com/
Coming up NEXT WEEK — next week! – – DUFFY & ERIN !
COMING SOON—Cory Zink’s band, COUNTY LINE! Don’t miss it!
. . . and remember, upcoming features will include such outstanding, notable, listenable performers as Tom Gardner, Dave Healey, and the Gypsy Jazz Ambassadors—as well as return visits from The Malibu Bros, this time with lovely lady lead vocalist Jeanne Laurin, Bill McElaney, currently touring his home-base of Ireland—and of course—the summer season at Tanglewood, which this year, we will cover here at
BERKSHIRES MUSIC BEAT USA !
@ genechristy.com
visit our friends:
Bobby Sweet at http://bobbysweet.com/
Rakish Paddy at http://www.rakishpaddyband.com/
Eddie Dillon at http://clancybrothersandtommymakem.com/ed_01.htm
EDDIE DILLON WILL BE COMING TO THE BERSKHIRES THIS FALL! THAT’S IN THE AUTUMN OF THE YEAR! ALL YOU DEVOTEES OF THE CELTIC SCENE OUT THERE – WHO KNOW EDDIE AS A MEMBER OF THE NATIONAL TOURING CAST OF THE CLANCYS -STAY TUNED FOR FURTHER DETAILS, TO BE ANNOUNCED AS SOON AS AVAILABLE, HERE ON
BERKSHIRES MUSIC BEAT USA !
And don’t forget
Jessica Roemischer at http://pianobeautiful.com/
And
Robin O’Herin at http://www.robinoherin.com/
And
champagnejam.org
You can also follow all the doings at Tara’s Tipperary Tavern at

BERKSHIRES MUSIC BEAT USA 27
songs of a coal miner’s son
====
A BLOG FOR MUSIC-LOVERS
With Gene Christy & Rod MacDow
episode twenty-seven . . .
What I do – takes a bit of tender, loving care.
If you believe this, as I do, or as much as I do, you will understand. It’s a joy to spend your time traveling the Berkshires USA listening to all the local bands—and never ceasing to be amazed that there is yet more out there!—waiting to be discovered. It’s a joy to realize that every year, every summer, in the Berkshires USA, is devoted to the music love-in which is Tanglewood in Lenox—where the Boston Symphony and the Boston Pops and a lineup of international recording stars come out to the beautiful, blessed hills to make a summer sojourn—every year!—devoted to music!
This week—well, let’s start with last Friday night. I enjoyed the sounds of Patrick Gray, Jr, doing his solo act at the Adams Ale House—the next night Pat joined his dad, Patrick Gray, Sr, in the JP Murphy Band trio at the Freightyard in North Adams. On Wednesday, Pat Gray and I met for lunch and told stories from the illustrious past to one another and shared our mutual love of song and story that will eventually be featured here on
BERKSHIRES MUSIC BEAT USA !
Located on your online dial at genechristy.com.
Thursday night was spent at the Olde Heritage Tavern in Lenox listening with great pleasure to the Malibu Bros with the extra added attraction of Jeanne Laurin taking up the middle with her lead vocals. Friday night at Portsmitt’s—after my own gig at the Marketplace Café—went round to pick up some delicious wings to take home!–and catch part of a set by the Jeff King Blues Band!
They all have been or will be featured on this blog—and we haven’t yet even scraped the tip of the iceberg!
Berkshire County USA! – – blessed with bands you can dance to!
And one of the best is the 3D Trio–our Featured Artist of the Week here at
BERKSHIRES MUSIC BEAT USA !
L to R Dave Healey, Dave Lincoln, and his father, another Dave Lincoln!
Dave, Dave and Dave – – is it any wonder they’re called the Three Ds?—
Let’s listen up—because I really like this band!—especially their harmonies on vocals!
AND just in case you thought the Berkshires was some unsophisticated backwater, or that bands here couldn’t boogie down the dancehall or slap that backbeat, we’re gonna start the show with a Las Vegas lounge lizard opener by none other than Louis Prima himself, a blazing hot version of a very cool number called
JUMP, JIVE ‘N’ WAIL
DAVE HEALEY, back in the day . .
However, that being said, or sung, the Berskhires ain’t nothin’ if it ain’t country—as you’ll soon find out at one of the local dances—so, here we go with a big hit song written by Don Williams
LIVIN’ ON TULSA TIME
DAVE HEALEY today–still lookin’ good!
Of course, if you really wanna get them to rush the dance floor, in the homey hills that surround us here in the western end of Massachusetts, or just about anywhere in the good ole USA—or the world, for that matter—just crank it up on Johnny Cash’s
FOLSOM PRISON BLUES
Did I mention that—without benefit of a harmonizer!—the 3D Trio put out some awesome harmonies on their choruses?—I just have to include this next number, one of my all-time faves (used to do it down the Cape with Bill McElaney and Tom Neville back in the 80s!)—by Bob Dylan—
KNOCKIN’ ON HEAVEN’S DOOR
And of course, the night would not be complete—the 3Ds did a first set lasting 57 minutes and change!—without Mary and me dancing to another of my all-time personal No. 1s, which I do myself in my solo act these days—John Fogerty’s
LODI
And now, I’m going to break all the rules—and go to a number 6 selection from the 3D Trio, for today’s blog—we never do this!—but I guess I just love this band—and to end the set—what better than to dance with your sweetheart cheek-to-cheek on Van Morrison’s slow, and tender, romantic ballad—dancing alongside the floor-to-ceiling picture windows framing the 3-mile long mirror of Lake Pontoosuc, with 3,491 foot-tall Mt Greylock ten miles off in the distance—absolutely the most beautiful spot in Massachusetts for dancing—to Van Morrison’s
HAVE I TOLD YOU LATELY THAT I LOVE YOU
Thanks for being with us here at
BERKSHIRES MUSIC BEAT USA !
It’s the place to be!
Coming up next week—Cory Zink’s band, County Line! Don’t miss it!
. . . and remember, upcoming features will include such outstanding, notable, listenable performers as Tom Gardner, Dave Healey, and the Gypsy Jazz Ambassadors—as well as return visits from The Malibu Bros, this time with lovely lady lead vocalist Jeanne Laurin, Bill McElaney, currently touring his home-base of Ireland—and of course—the summer season at Tanglewood, which this year, we will cover here at
BERKSHIRES MUSIC BEAT USA !
@ genechristy.com
visit our friends:
Bobby Sweet at http://bobbysweet.com/
Rakish Paddy at http://www.rakishpaddyband.com/
Eddie Dillon at http://clancybrothersandtommymakem.com/ed_01.htm
EDDIE DILLON WILL BE COMING TO THE BERSKHIRES THIS FALL! THAT’S IN THE AUTUMN OF THE YEAR! ALL YOU DEVOTEES OF THE CELTIC SCENE OUT THERE – WHO KNOW EDDIE AS A MEMBER OF THE NATIONAL TOURING CAST OF THE CLANCYS -STAY TUNED FOR FURTHER DETAILS, TO BE ANNOUNCED AS SOON AS AVAILABLE, HERE ON
BERKSHIRES MUSIC BEAT USA !
And don’t forget
Jessica Roemischer at http://pianobeautiful.com/
And
Robin O’Herin at http://www.robinoherin.com/
And
champagnejam.org
You can also follow all the doings at Tara’s Tipperary Tavern at
http://www.tarasfamilypub.com/
from Belfast, in the north of Ireland . . .

BERKSHIRES MUSIC BEAT USA No. 26
songs of a coal miner’s son
====
A BLOG FOR MUSIC-LOVERS
With Gene Christy & Rod MacDow
episode twenty-six . . .
Berkshire County USA – – blessed with bands you can dance to!
And one of the best is Champagne Jam,
our Featured Artist of the Week here at
BERKSHIRES MUSIC BEAT USA !
But before we get to Tracy, Dave and Jim – –
We got news to catch up on!
First of all – – Florida was fabulous! Visited with favorite cousin growing up, TJ, down in redneck country, in Homestead, FLA, next door to the beach (and the canal with the gators and pythons!) hard by the Everglades west of Miami—and what a time we had! Here’s a big hello to all the gang at Loly’s down on Krome Avenue—to Tommy
and Freddy, and good-buddy Sidney!
(We sat down with Sidney at Tom’s house and played and sang us some of that good ole reggae the likes of Bob Marley and Jimmy Cliff!)
And then we got back home to the Berkshires, and had a spectacular good-time at our old stand, Tuesday night’s at Portsmitt’s, when none other that Robin O’Herin herself dropped by to sit in and sing us some Delta blues, and play us some bottle-blues guitar
—and here’s what Rick Marquis, my partner in the Dossers, had to say about that—
“Got to play with blues/gospel singer, songwriter, known as Robin O’Herin last night at Port-Smitts! What an honor!!! Probably one of the top five musicians that I’ve ever played with. WOW!!! Faux T ”
So, all I can say is – -the name of that tune is –MUSIC! – – the universal language!— – speaks to –and for – everybody!
And now for a special treat – – CHAMPAGNE JAM !! – -known all over the Berkshires and western Massachusetts, Vermont, New York and Connecticut, for the last 20 years and more—
from 1958!–the Dell Vikings’ COME GO WITH ME!
CHAMPAGNE JAM___ is a versatile musical trio comprised of . . . .
Tracy Kittler: female lead vocalist, keyboard and guitar player
Jim Sauve: lead guitar and vocalist
David Kittler: bass guitar, vocalist and percussion
As for versatility?–check out this CHAMPAGNE rendition of Santana’s “Smm-mm-oooo-th!”
SMOOTH
Their repertoire of selections includes big band and commercial numbers,
classic and modern, country and western, golden oldies from the 50’s and 60’s and 70’s and more–ballroom dance numbers–and timeless rock and roll favorites!
Country and western? How about George Strait’s “dance-able” 1998 hit “I Just Wanna Dance with You!”
I JUST WANNA DANCE WITH YOU
Over the decades, CHAMPAGNE JAM has entertained the Berskhires with professional performances at community events such as . . . .
LaFesta, Heritage Park,
Windsor Lake Concert Series
and The Downtown Celebration in N.Adams.
Town Common Concerts, Street Fair and Cruise Night in Adams.
Concerts on the Common and The First Night
Celebration in Pittsfield.
Under the Tent Concert Series in Bennington, Vermont
Tri State Singles, Middlefield Fair and Pownal Tri State Fair—all in Vermont
Let’s have another Champagne bubbly !!
PRETTY WOMAN
1964 – ROY THE BOY! How I remember that one! Used to do it every single show back in the day when I did that ten-year stretch with Boston’s BLACK VELVET BAND — 1985 to 95 !! – – drummer Paul McDonald useta sing the lead, and that number had such power–you felt like you were standing not on a stage–but the deck of an aircraft carrier–and here we go, takin’ off!!!
Countless VFW, American Legion, and Shriner dinner dances, weddings,
anniversaries, benefits, parties and club engagements–over the last 20 years–
have given Champagne Jam the experience of seasoned veterans.
Please feel free to contact CHAMPAGNE JAM at 413-743-3282 or 413-743-3358 for more information regarding rates and availability.
You can also reach them via email . . . . CONTACT THE BAND at
champagnejam.org
BERKSHIRES MUSIC BEAT USA !
It’s the place to be!
I’m happy to say that right after this, I’m leaving for a night of good, live music from Berkshires Music Beat faves Norm Schaffer, playing tonight at the Marketplace Café in Pittsfield, and Patrick Gray, booked at the Adams Ale House, 1st Set, 9 pm tonight! And tomorrow night—our long-anticipated trip to North Adams to see the JP Murphy Band at the Freightyard Pub & Restaurant. WHAT A WEEKEND !!
So don’t forget us, and remember, when we come back next week we’re going to move on to upcoming features on such outstanding, notable, listenable bands as The 3D’s and County Line—as well as Tom Gardner, Dave Healey, and the Gypsy Jazz Ambassadors–
Thank you!
BERKSHIRES MUSIC BEAT USA !
@ genechristy.com
visit our friends:
Bobby Sweet at http://bobbysweet.com/
Rakish Paddy at http://www.rakishpaddyband.com/
Eddie Dillon at http://clancybrothersandtommymakem.com/ed_01.htm
EDDIE DILLON WILL BE COMING TO THE BERSKHIRES THIS FALL! THAT’S IN THE AUTUMN OF THE YEAR! ALL YOU DEVOTEES OF THE CELTIC SCENE OUT THERE – WHO KNOW EDDIE AS A MEMBER OF THE NATIONAL TOURING CAST OF THE CLANCYS -STAY TUNED FOR FURTHER DETAILS, TO BE ANNOUNCED AS SOON AS AVAILABLE, HERE ON
BERKSHIRES MUSIC BEAT USA !
AND NOT LEAST OF ALL – –
BILL McELANEY, OF COUNTY DONEGAL, AT http://www.reverbnation.com/billmcelaney/song/19620248-home-to-donegal
And don’t forget
Jessica Roemischer at http://pianobeautiful.com/
And
Robin O’Herin at http://www.robinoherin.com/
You can also follow all the doings at Tara’s Tipperary Tavern at

BERKSHIRES MUSIC BEAT USA 25
songs of a coal miner’s son
====
A BLOG FOR MUSIC-LOVERS
With Gene Christy & Rod MacDow
episode twenty-five . . .
Happy Holidays, everybody!
Tomorrow is Easter Sunday, and so, for many families here in Berkshire County and around the country, it will be a special day, a day of gathering together of loved ones and friends to celebrate, to share food, laughter and good times—and, of course, music.
But whatever your faith, persuasion, background or nationality, we here at
BERKSHIRES MUSIC BEAT USA !
send out our best wishes to you and yours for a happy and holy holiday!
And in honor of the best of human sentiments, the sharing of joy, we would like to present today only one song –
A special song – –
Taken from a special book – –
And shared by millions the whole world over, whatever their creed or faith, as a testament to the power of love—
From the Old Testament – –
Psalm 23 “The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want . . .”
Performed here so beautifully by the Berkshires’ own Robin O’Herin . . .
Psalm 23
BERKSHIRES MUSIC BEAT USA !
It’s the place to be! It’s the “church-hall of the cyberspace” !! —
I’m happy to say that right after this, I’m leaving for a long-anticipated trip to Florida to see my own family—and that last night, here in Pittsfield, at the Marketplace Café,
I had my personal best.
Playing and singing.
So thank you all who were there and contributed to the tip jar! You are the ones who made it a special evening for me!
And–lest we forget–to all those attending Monday’s running of the Boston Marathon–runners and spectators alike–stay strong!–stay BOSTON STRONG !! MAKE IT YOUR PERSONAL BEST !!
We’ll be gone for just a week, so don’t forget us, and remember, when we come back we’re going to move on to upcoming features on such outstanding, notable, listenable bands as The 3D’s, Champagne Jam, and County Line—as well as Tom Gardner, Dave Healey, Patrick Gray, and the Gypsy Jazz Ambassadors–
Thank you!
SINGER / SONGWRITER / COUNTRY BLUES GUITARIST
– ROBIN O’HERIN !
(the Bonnie Raitt of the Berkshires!)
For that very special rendering of a powerful prayer here on
BERKSHIRES MUSIC BEAT USA !
@ genechristy.com
visit our friends:
Bobby Sweet at http://bobbysweet.com/
Rakish Paddy at http://www.rakishpaddyband.com/
Eddie Dillon at http://clancybrothersandtommymakem.com/ed_01.htm
EDDIE DILLON WILL BE COMING TO THE BERSKHIRES THIS FALL! THAT’S IN THE AUTUMN OF THE YEAR! ALL YOU DEVOTEES OF THE CELTIC SCENE OUT THERE – WHO KNOW EDDIE AS A MEMBER OF THE NATIONAL TOURING CAST OF THE CLANCYS -STAY TUNED FOR FURTHER DETAILS, TO BE ANNOUNCED AS SOON AS AVAILABLE, HERE ON
BERKSHIRES MUSIC BEAT USA !
And don’t forget
Jessica Roemischer at http://pianobeautiful.com/
And
Robin O’Herin at http://www.robinoherin.com/
You can also follow all the doings at Tara’s Tipperary Tavern at
http://www.tarasfamilypub.com/
from FLA, Happy family day, everybody !

BERKSHIRES MUSIC BEAT USA 24
songs of a coal miner’s son
====
A BLOG FOR MUSIC-LOVERS
With Gene Christy & Rod MacDow
episode twenty-four . . .
This week we are pleased and proud to present, as our Featured Artist of the Week, one of the finest singer/songwriters the Berkshires has ever produced—and she is a County person—the woman of the country blues–
Our own
Robin O’Herin !
. . on our blog here at
BERKSHIRES MUSIC BEAT USA !
Robin O’Herin has been compared, not for the first time, to another lady of the blues—Bonnie Raitt—and it’s not without good reason, as you’ll see for yourself when you listen to this–
HOLD ON
Words and music by Robin O’Herin, from her 2002 cd album “Red, White and Blues,” pictured here –
Robin is well-known around here for her efforts to benefit handicapped children through encouraging their participation in her musical workshops—and she was kind enough to have me over to her house a couple of weeks back—and so we can have Robin herself tell us about—this ‘n’ that, as well as . . .
INTERVIEW BELOW RECORDED LIVE WITH ROBIN O’HERIN – – just click on the arrow – –
Well, there’s more — but, sorry, in the interest of attention-span, we had to cut out there a little abruptly – – but, you know, that’s just a good reason for tuning in the next time Robin’s on the blog!
Now — how’s about a little something from Robert Johnson?
WALKIN’ BLUES
Robin O’Herin doesn’t have to take a back seat to anyone in the originality department, either—and her compositional talents extend to her guitar as well. Here she is on the purely instrumental
EVER HOPEFUL
On the spiritual side, let’s listen to Robin take and move that vital aspect of her life up to the forefront of her cd album, “The Road Home.”
My personal favorite from this beautiful album—which is difficult to say, because it contains so many gems—might just be the old traditional tune, “Wayfaring Stranger”—which Robin imbues with gorgeous mountain harmonies and strings that fall like teardrops from heaven on the soul of the listener—and that’s her fault, but also the result of her gathering together in one studio some of the finest back-up musicians the Berkshires has to offer—a line-up including Terry Hall, LuAnn Herring, Lisa Kantor, Peter Schneider, and Vikki True—not to mention Dan Broad on bass guitar—whom we heard just last week with the Jeff King Blues Band! here on
BERKSHIRES MUSIC BEAT USA !
It’s the place to be! It’s the “church-hall of cyberspace” !! —
WAYFARING STRANGER
From what she indicated in our interview above, Robin’s favorite might just be “The Road Home”—
And here’s her song about the road pictured above–
_ THE ROAD HOME
Thank you for that, Robin—and for being who you are!
You know, folks—seems like I haven’t had much to say this week—guess I’ve run out of superlatives when it comes to Robin O’Herin—so I just tried to curb my enthusiasm and let the music say it for me—but then again—usually we have a limit of four (4!) audio tracks per blog episode—but, this week—I just can’t help myself !
I LUV THIS SONG !!!
ABILENE
THANKS SO MUCH TO ROBIN O’HERIN AND HER CREW FOR BEING WITH US HERE TODAY—
And Robin will be back —- I promise you that!
Coming next week – my vacation !!
Yes, it’s true – I’m going to Florida—and not the one in Berkshire County! (One of the NORTHERN-most towns in the County – LOL – right up there on the Vermont line!) (We also have a town called Monterrey!!! . . . a little further south!)
But I do have a special treat lined up for our loyal followers—in the sense that I now have a backlog built up in the archives of music from all over the County—
and before we move on to upcoming features on such notable, listenable bands as The 3D’s, Champagne Jam, and County Line—as well as Tom Gardner, Dave Healey, Patrick Gray, and the Gypsy Jazz Ambassadors–
We’re going to take a step back and present the Best of the Best of our lineup of the last few months, including Jack Waldheim, who started it all, but also Jessica Roemischer, Paul Rice, Norm Schaffer and more of
SINGER / SONGWRITER / COUNTRY BLUES GUITARIST
– ROBIN O’HERIN !
(the Bonnie Raitt of the Berkshires!)
Don’t miss it! It’s a special treat—and you know how you like your treats! Get ‘em here on
BERKSHIRES MUSIC BEAT USA !
@ genechristy.com
Meanwhile, visit our friends:
Bobby Sweet at http://bobbysweet.com/
Rakish Paddy at http://www.rakishpaddyband.com/
Eddie Dillon at http://clancybrothersandtommymakem.com/ed_01.htm
EDDIE DILLON WILL BE COMING TO THE BERSKHIRES THIS FALL! THAT’S IN THE AUTUMN OF THE YEAR! ALL YOU DEVOTEES OF THE CELTIC SCENE OUT THERE – WHO KNOW EDDIE AS A MEMBER OF THE NATIONAL TOURING CAST OF THE CLANCYS -STAY TUNED FOR FURTHER DETAILS, TO BE ANNOUNCED AS SOON AS AVAILABLE, HERE ON
BERKSHIRES MUSIC BEAT USA !
And don’t forget
Jessica Roemischer at http://pianobeautiful.com/
And
Robin O’Herin at http://www.robinoherin.com /
You can also follow all the doings at Tara’s Tipperary Tavern at
http://www.tarasfamilypub.com/
Fair thee well, Titanic!

BERKSHIRES MUSIC BEAT USA! 23
songs of a coal miner’s son
====
A BLOG FOR MUSIC-LOVERS
With Gene Christy & Rod MacDow
episode twenty-three . . .
“I think live music may be coming back in again!”
So saith Glen Boden of the Malibu Bros—
Understatement of the year—
THE JEFF KING BLUES BAND on a Saturday night at Portsmitt’s, L to R Jeff King, lead vocal and electric blues guitar, John Haddad, drums and harmonica, and Daniel Broad, vocals and electric bass guitar.
When you hear this group, this week, our Featured Artist on our blog here at
BERKSHIRES MUSIC BEAT USA !
I gotta feeling you’re gonna say the music’s – BACK !!
the JEFF KING BLUES BAND ! (not to be missed!)
. . THE WINTER’S OVAH! AND THE HEAT IS — BACK !!
Oh, boy! I’m gonna luv this one!
You know, people, as we get a little bit older—and I’m not old, mind you (as some of my friends, who claim my mental age is around 14 !! will gladly attest!)
sometimes we lose our grip – – the edge gets a little dulled – – and we say – – how did I miss that?
We’re all familiar with the clichéd idea that we’ve passed through a generation of easy access to the best recorded music ever—and that the “soundtrack of our lives” is always playing in our head—if not the elevator!—
But this week was a real revelation—which afforded me the opportunity to explore and re-assess and grow a little—
Because you see, I’m not a guitarist. So I never actually spent hour upon hour listening over and over to Eric Clapton tracks—
Maybe I should have! Seems like Mick Jagger knew something I didn’t!
Maybe I missed it all in translation, but the Jeff King Blues Band sure caught me up fast!
And so now I’m gonna shut up and let the band play—‘cause this group SAYS IT ALL!
SHE’S INTO SOMETHING
Speaking of Jagger & Richards–Words and music by Muddy Waters, 1958, first put out on Chess # 1733 in April or May of 1959—in October of that year, Muddy and his band crossed over to England, where they were successful before, for their second tour of the Isles—heads up, Mick and Keith! (thanks to JC Marion for these details.)
How’s about a little selection from John Lee Hooker?
FIVE LONG YEARS
Also recorded by—who else?—Eric Clapton and Buddy Guy! Sharpen those pencils, blues aficionados!
As to this next one?
I LUV THIS SONG !!!
It’s called “Tell me your Name,” and it’s by a local guy named Jerry Quinn, and it’s performed here by the Jeff King Blues Band, recorded live on a Saturday night at Portsmitt’s, with the lead vocal by bass-guitarist Daniel Broad—
listen to this!
TELL ME YOUR NAME
On purpose, I didn’t delete some of the usual pre-song chatter on that track—because, you know, the whole idea is to preserve the feeling of being there—I mean, seeing the pictures is one thing, but
Hearing it—wow!
And now it’s time to have drummer John Haddad
step out a little bit with his favorite sidekick—his harmonica—on T-bone Walker’s
T-BONE SHUFFLE
Wow! Thanx, John, that was somethin’ else, man!
AND how about that extended bass guitar solo from Dan Broad ???
NOT TO MENTION– a little lead-guitar pyrotechnics from Jeff King himself !!
Now, we’ve not heard the last of the inimitable Jeff King and his band—
We are definitely going to have them back!
Might as well come out and say it—
BERKSHIRES MUSIC BEAT USA !
Is like the “nightclub of the air” !! — the favorite neighborhood pub where you go for a draft beer and every weekend one of your favorite local bands comes back on a return invite to entertain you again—‘cause they’re “in the rotation.”
And honestly, we have too much recorded music from each of our Featured Artists, every week, as we go along through the year, to fit onto just one blog—
So the Jeff King Blues Band will definitely be back—that’s a promise!
Meanwhile, through the magic of modern electronics, and the Internet, we can actually bring you a blast-from-the-past instant classic on video–from none other than T-Bone Walker himself–doing the original recording of the “T-Bone Shuffle” down in L.A CA, all the way back in–1949 !!!! CHECK IT OUT !!
AND !! —Coming next week –
SINGER / SONGWRITER / COUNTRY-BLUES GUITARIST
– ROBIN O’HERIN !
(the Bonnie Raitt of the Berkshires!)
Don’t miss Robin! You’re gonna love her!
And we have a brilliant schedule of the Berkshires’ finest live music acts coming up soon on this website–all gathered her together in one place!–including the likes of veteran rocker Tom Gardner, the Man in Pink, Dave Healey, Patrick Gray, both father and son, the Gypsy Jazz Ambassadors, headed up by globe-trotting guitarist Andy Kelly, and others too numerous to list here—such as Dave Lincoln, and Dave Lincoln (father and son!) with Dave Healey (aka as The 3-Ds !!!! ) — let’s just say – – everybody in the band is named “Dave!”
Well, now, we must admit that there is happening right now in our special corner of the world
a live music revival
and we’re going to explore, investigate, and celebrate that here on
BERKSHIRES MUSIC BEAT USA !
As for our followers out there in the blogosphere, catch us next week, same time, same station!
Meanwhile, visit our friends:
Bobby Sweet at http://bobbysweet.com/
Rakish Paddy at http://www.rakishpaddyband.com/
Eddie Dillon at http://clancybrothersandtommymakem.com/ed_01.htm
Eddie Dillon – will be coming to the Berkshires this fall! All you devotees of the Celtic scene out there—who know Eddie as a member of the national touring cast of the Clancys–stay tuned for further details, to be announced as soon as available—here on
BERKSHIRES MUSIC BEAT USA !
And don’t forget
Jessica Roemischer at http://pianobeautiful.com/
And
Robin O’Herin at http://www.robinoherin.com/
You can also follow all the doings at Tara’s Tipperary Tavern at
http://www.tarasfamilypub.com/
Fair thee well, Titanic!

BERKSHIRES MUSIC BEAT USA 22
songs of a coal miner’s son
=======================================
A BLOG FOR MUSIC-LOVERS
With Gene Christy & Rod MacDow
episode twenty-two . . .
What a St Paddy’s season this year! Great craic! Just the way we like it this time of year!
But today, we move on to a new season of spring springing—if it ever does!—today is yet another day of the cold brittle sunshine we’ve been “enjoying” in this year’s “endless winter” !!—and our theme is taken from Glenn Boden, who is, with Vinni Brandi, the other big half of the duo called the Malibu Brothers (we needed a little “Malibu” this winter!)—and Glenn Boden, when I caught up to the M-Bros, one night at, where else”—Portsmitt’s!—made the comment,
“I think live music may be coming in again!”
Well—stranger things have happened! Things do go in cycles!
Last week The Dossers, my own Irish-themed, Celtic-rock band, was our featured artist on our blog here at
-
BERKSHIRES MUSIC BEAT USA
And we have a brilliant schedule of the Berkshires’ finest live music acts coming up soon on this website, including the likes of the Jeff King Blues Band, (not to be missed!) and singer-songwriter Robin O’Herin—the “Bonnie Raitt” of the Berkshires!—Tom Gardner, veteran rocker, Dave Healey, aka the Man in Pink, Patrick Gray, the Bard of North County, and others too numerous to list here—let’s just say
we have to admit that there is happening right now in our special corner of the world
A LIVE MUSIC REVIVAL !!
and we’re going to explore, investigate, and celebrate that here on
-
BERKSHIRES MUSIC BEAT USA
And so without further ado, let’s introduce our
FEATURED ARTIST OF THE WEEK
The MALIBU BROTHERS!
Vinni Brandi
and Glenn Boden
have been around the Berskhires a lot longer than I have, so I’m just gonna get out of the way and let them play & sing for you!
Here we go with a little something from James Taylor, apropos of the Berkshires—it’s called “Country Road”—performed live at Portsmitt’s by Vinni and Glenn—Vinni on the lead vocal–
COUNTRY ROAD
Didja hear the story about this song by Sweet Baby James? Seems that one night after a gig in Washington, DC, when Bill Danoff, Taffy Nivert, and John Denver sat up all night polishing off a new song, which Denver was eager to record, and which he called “Country Roads”– when Denver went up to New York to record what would become his immortal world-wide hit song—they advised him that James Taylor had just put out “Country Road”—and that’s how the world got the state song of West Virginia, “Take Me Home, Country Roads!” John Denver had to revise the title of what would go on to become his signature song!
Here are the Malibu Brothers with their rendition of Green Day’s 1997 hit, “Time of Your Life–” this time with Glenn
singing lead–
TIME OF YOUR LIFE
Last week, on Sunday evening, down in Lee, MA, our host, Robin O’Herin
did a wonderful job staging an open mike, well-attended, at the Spectrum Playhouse
THE SPECTRUM PLAYHOUSE IN THE FORMER ST GEORGE’S ON FRANKLIN STREET IN LEE, MA . . .
—another example of the thriving live music scene in South County.
Tom Gardner
was the Featured Artist, and Norm Schaffer
and myself, Gene Christy,
were also on stage—all of us have been, or will soon be, featured here on
-
BERKSHIRES MUSIC BEAT USA
BTW !! I’ll be back at the Marketplace Cafe on North Street in the heart of downtown Pittsfield doing my solo act, singing the vocals all the way from the Big Band era down thru the days of Classic Rock, on Thursday, April 3rd, 6.30 – 8.30 pm, and again on two Fridays, May 16th and 30th, same times–so come on down and check out me and THE SQUEEZEBOX!!–
the magical 21st century marvel of musical engineering, all-digital Roland that plays bass guitar, piano and tenor sax!–all at the same time!
Now back to this week’s feature-creature, the Malibu Bros, for a couple more before we leave . . .
DRIFT AWAY by DOBIE GRAY !!
Coming next week – the JEFF KING BLUES BAND ! (not to be missed!)
And for this week–last-blast from the Malibu Bros!
(Always go out on an up-tempo CCR — if you can!–I always say!)
As for our followers out there in the blogosphere, catch us next week, same time, same station, here at
BERKSHIRES MUSIC BEAT USA
Meanwhile, visit our friends:
Robin O’Herin at http://www.robinoherin.com/
**** HEADS UP! ROBIN WILL BE OUR FEATURED GUEST TWO WEEKS FROM NOW!!
Bobby Sweet at http://bobbysweet.com/
Rakish Paddy at http://www.rakishpaddyband.com/
Eddie Dillon at http://clancybrothersandtommymakem.com/ed_01.htm
***** WOW !!! SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT *****
Eddie Dillon – will be coming to the Berkshires this fall! All you devotees of the Celtic scene out there—who know Eddie as a member of the national touring cast of the Clancys–stay tuned for further details, to be announced as soon as available—here on
BERKSHIRES MUSIC BEAT USA
EDDIE –WHO’S THE OTHER DILLON ????
And don’t forget Jessica Roemischer at http://pianobeautiful.com/
You can also follow all the doings at Tara’s Tipperary Tavern at
http://www.tarasfamilypub.com/
Fair thee well, Titanic!
_ Titanic in the ways at Harland and Wolff in Belfast . . .
BTW !!! HEADS UP !! BERKSHIRES MUSIC BEAT USA HAS NOW LINKED UP WITH BERKSHIRES 24-7 ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE ON-LINE!! SO, PRESS THE BUTTON BELOW MARKED–THE BERKSHIRES 24-7 DOT COM !!
