night series curated
by the seminal group The Blind
Boys of Alabama, soul gospel veterans who
have
been deeply influential across many popular genres.
The Blind Boys
will perform at all three events,
demonstrating the breadth of their
musical
collaborations with vastly diverse artists and their
ability to
combine the evocative power of gospel
with pop, country, blues, and
rock-creating a
new kind of spiritual music that is both widely
accessible and uniquely their own.
The celebrated Blind Boys-whose singing has
been described as "gutsy
lead vocals and rough-
and-ready harmonies" by The New York Times-
have
won five Grammy Awards over 10 years,
culminating in Grammy's highest
honor, the Lifetime
Achievement Award in 2009. Formed at a school
for
the visually impaired in 1939, The Blind Boys
have featured many waves
of remarkable and multi-
generational musical talent over the past 70
years,
and have toured with numerous artists ranging from
Peter Gabriel
to Ben Harper and Tom Petty.
The three Lincoln Center Festival celebrations of
the incomparable group
showcase The Blind Boys'
great range, starting with an opening night
concert
with Yo La Tengo and Yim Yames of My Morning
Jacket. The second
concert spotlights country music
with Yonder Mountain String Band, Texas
Swing
sensations Ray Benson and Jason Roberts of Asleep
at the Wheel,
and bluegrass legend Ralph Stanley
performing songs from The Blind Boy's
upcoming
CD. The final evening, The Blind Boys Family
Revival, will
feature songs from all of the group's
Grammy Award-winning albums and
include duets
with Aaron Neville, Joan Osborne, Hot 8 Brass
Band, Dan
Zanes, John Hammond, Charlie
Musselwhite, and others to be announced at
a
later date.
For 70 years, The Blind Boys of Alabama have
traversed "higher ground"
together. Since forming
their group at the Alabama Institute for the
Negro
Blind (Talladega Blind School) in 1939, they have
kept alive the
spirit and energy of pure soul gospel
music. Founded by Clarence
Fountain, Jimmy Carter
and George Scott-and currently featuring Carter
with
Eric McKinnie, Joey Williams, Tracy Pierce, Billy
Bowers, and Ben
Moore-the group has drawn upon
gospel's river-deep reflections on life's
trials, and
combined its haunting falsettos and muscular harmonies
with
foot-stomping, rollicking beats. Since first reaching
a wider audience
in the 1983 Obie Award-winning
production of the Broadway musical The
Gospel at
Colonnus, the singers have repeatedly reinvented the
musical
genre. In 2007, they released the Grammy
winning album, Down in New
Orleans, their first for
Saguaro Road Records, which was followed in
2008
by a companion DVD, Live in New Orleans. The
Blind Boys' new album,
Duets, was released in October
and features collaborations with Ben
Harper, Randy
Travis, and Bonnie Raitt, along with previously
unreleased
recordings with Lou Reed, John
Hammond, and Toots Hibbert, as well as a
new song
with Timothy B. Schmit of the Eagles.
Blind Boys Steal The Show At The Fes Festival
Mon, Jun. 7 2010
Public Radio International covered the Fes Festival in Morocco and they reported that Moroccans love gospel music and the main attraction of the week was headlining act The Blind Boys of Alabama.
How The Blind Boys Began: Jimmy Carter Tells The Story
Sun, Jun. 6 2010
Watch this interview with Jimmy Carter from the five-time Grammy Award winning Blind Boys of Alabama.Discover how these hip septuagenarians met back in 1939 in a school for the blind to eventually become The Blind Boys of Alabama Click here to watch the interview!
BLIND BOYS TO PERFORM AT WHITE HOUSE FOR PRESIDENT AND MRS. OBAMA
Fri, Jan. 29 2010
Concert Airs on PBS February 11th
Also Features Bob Dylan, John Legend, Seal,
Jennifer Hudson, John Mellencamp,
Natalie Cole and Smokey Robinson
Hosted By
Morgan Freeman and Queen Latifah
The Blind Boys of Alabama have been invited to perform at a special
concert at the White House on February 10th. “In Performance at the
White House: A Celebration of Music From the Civil Rights Movement,”
will be held in the State Dining Room, and is timed to celebrate Black
History Month. The Blind Boys will join hosts President and Mrs. Obama as well as music superstars Bob Dylan, John Legend, Seal, Jennifer Hudson,
John Mellencamp, Natalie Cole and Smokey Robinson on the bill. Morgan
Freeman and Queen Latifah will emcee the entire event. The concert will
be the White House’s first music event of 2010, and is the latest
concert in a music series started last year by Michelle Obama. It will
be streamed live online at whitehouse.gov and broadcast on PBS on February
11th.
The event is a particularly poignant
one for the Blind Boys. ‘Our group started singing together in Alabama in the late 1930s, and we lived through the dark days of segregation,’
says Jimmy Carter, the band’s leader and one of its founding members.
‘That’s why it is a great pleasure and an even greater honor to
sing on this program.’
The White House concert adds to an
already remarkable year for the legendary gospel group. The band opened
2010 with a series of concerts in China, then flew to New York last
week where they were joined by Lou Reed for a blistering performance
on the Late Show with David Letterman (click here to watch ). Their rendition of “Jesus,”
from the Blind Boys’ current album Duets, marked the first
time the unusual collaborators had performed in public together.
The Blind Boys are also featured in
the new documentary film which relates to the subject matter of the
White House show. Soundtrack for a Revolution tells the story
of the civil rights movement through the music which accompanied the
struggle. The movie is on the short list in the Best Documentary Film
category for the Academy Awards. Soundtrack features the Blind Boys as well as the Roots, John Legend, Wyclef Jean
and many other performers interpreting the music of the Civil Rights
Movement. In its review of the film, the New York Times noted
that one of “the best musical performances belong[s] to…the Blind
Boys of Alabama.”
The group will be touring the rest
of the Spring, including upcoming concerts in Morristown, N.J. (with
the Preservation Hall Jazz Band), at UCLA’s Royce Hall (with Allen
Toussaint) and at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, punctuated
by their induction into the Alabama Music Hall of Fame in Montgomery,
AL on March 25.
LOU REED JOINS THE BLIND BOYS OF ALABAMA FOR HISTORIC APPEARANCE ON LATE NIGHT WITH DAVID LETTERMAN
Mon, Jan. 11 2010
On January 21, 2010, two American music icons
from very different origins will perform
together on national television for the very
first time, as The Blind Boys of Alabama and Lou Reed perform the classic Velvet Underground song “Jesus.” The tune has been singled out repeatedly by reviewers as a highlight on the Blind Boys’ new Duets album, a critically-acclaimed collection of collaborations that features the Blind Boys performing with an esteemed but highly eclectic group of artists including Reed, Ben Harper, Bonnie Raitt, Randy Travis, Susan Tedeschi, Solomon Burke and others.
While the Lou Reed and the Blind Boys have recorded together twice, and performed together once before (at a private concert on the floor of the UN General Assembly in 2004 for the Landmine Survivors Network), this broadcast will mark their first joint television appearance.
“We’ve known and worked with Lou for several years and we love this tune, but we’ve never had the chance to play it with him for the world to enjoy until now. We’re excited to have it be on national television for our good friend David Letterman,” says Blind Boys’ founding member and leader Jimmy Carter.
The Letterman performance comes at the end of another amazing year for the Blind Boys that began with a prestigious Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award as well as another Grammy Award (their 5th) for their last studio album, “Down In New Orleans.” Since then the band has toured around the U.S. and the world (in fact, they are currently on their first-ever tour of China). Following the Letterman appearance, the band will begin another tour of the U.S. that features some interesting shows, including performances in Morristown, N.J. with the Preservation Hall Jazz Band and at UCLA’s Royce Hall with Allen Toussaint, and concludes with their induction into the Alabama Music Hall of Fame in Montgomery, AL on March 25.
The latest release from the Blind Boys, Duets, features three previously unreleased tracks – the aforementioned “Jesus” with Lou Reed, one with John Hammond and another with Toots Hibbert - as well as a new song with Timothy B. Schmit of the Eagles that was simultaneously released on his recent CD. Also included is the audio version of a tune with Marva Wright which, until now, was only available on video on the Blind Boys’ Live In New Orleans DVD. The album also includes performances with Ben Harper, Randy Travis, Bonnie Raitt, Solomon Burke, Susan Tedeschi, Jars of Clay, Charlie Musselwhite, Asleep At The Wheel, and Dan Zanes. Of the nine previously released tracks on Duets, seven have appeared on Grammy- nominated or Grammy-winning albums.
The New York Times recently declared that the group “proclaim their reverence in close harmonies and gutsy improvisations that leap heavenward," while Billboard called Duets “lovely” and All Music Guide described it as a “"...delightful 14-track compilation... everything invariably gets lifted to a new plane..." BlogCritics.org added that Duets "is not only a pleasure to listen to, but far more sincere than just about anything you're liable to hear on pop radio these days..."
The Blind Boys of Alabama are recognized worldwide as living legends of gospel music. Celebrated by both the Grammys and The National Endowment for the Arts with Lifetime Achievement Awards, inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame, and winners of five Grammy® Awards, they have attained the highest levels of recognition in a career that spans over 60 years and shows no signs of diminishing. Longevity and major awards aside, The Blind Boys have earned praise for their remarkable interpretations of everything from traditional gospel favorites to contemporary spiritual material by acclaimed songwriters such as Curtis Mayfield, Prince and Tom Waits. Their performances have been experienced by millions on “The Tonight Show,” “Late Night with David Letterman,” the Grammy® Awards telecast, “60 Minutes,” and on their own holiday PBS Special. The Blind Boys' live shows are roof- raising musical events that appeal to audiences of all cultures, as evidenced by an international itinerary that has taken them to almost every continent. In 2007, they released the Grammy winning album, Down in New Orleans, their first for Saguaro Road Records, which was followed in 2008 by a companion DVD, Live in New Orleans.
Blind Boys of Alabama Tour Dates:
1/22/2010 Salem, OR, Salem Multicultural Institute Fundraiser, Up Top
1/23/2010 Bothell, WA, Northshore Performing Arts Center, Del Rey
1/26/2010 Phoenix, AZ, The Compound Grill
1/29/2010 Morristown, NJ, The Community Theater at Mayo Center, Down by the Riverside feat. The Blind Boys of Alabama and The Preservation Hall Jazz Band
2/20/2010 Springfield, IL, University of Illinois - Sangamon Auditorium, with John Hammond
2/21/2010 Williamsburg, VA, The College of William and Mary - Kimball Theater,
2/25/2010 Chico, CA, California State University, Chico-Laxson Auditorium
2/26/2010 Reno, NV, Knitting Factory
3/4/2010 Santa Barbara, CA, Lobero Theatre
3/6/2010 Los Angeles, CA, UCLA Live with Allen Toussaint
3/7/2010 Solana Beach, CA, Belly Up
BLIND BOYS OF ALABAMA ANNOUNCE CHRISTMAS TOUR
Sat, Dec. 5 2009
New Album, DUETS, Released October 27th,
Is Third Most Added Record at AAA Radio
Grammy winners the Blind Boys of Alabama
will kick off their sixth annual Christmas tour
on
November 29th in Perth, Ontario (Canada)
and conclude on December 18th in Grand
Rapids, MN.
The tour comes on the heels of
their newest album, Duets, released October
27th (Saguaro Road
Records) which features
collaborations with Bonnie Raitt, Lou Reed,
Ben Harper, Randy Travis,
John Hammond,
Solomon Burke and more.
Duets features three previously unreleased
tracks - with Lou Reed, John Hammond and
Toots Hibbert - as well as a new song with
Timothy B. Schmit of the Eagles that was
simultaneously
released on his forthcoming CD.
Also included is the audio version of a tune with
Marva Wright which, until now, was only
available on video on the Blind Boys’ Live In
New Orleans DVD. The album also includes
performances with Ben Harper, Randy Travis,
Bonnie Raitt, Solomon Burke,
Susan Tedeschi,
Jars of Clay, Charlie Musselwhite, Asleep At The
Wheel, and Dan Zanes. Of the nine previously
released tracks on Duets, seven have appeared on
Grammy-nominated or Grammy winning albums.
The album was the third most added record at the
AAA Radio format in its week of release.
The New York Times recently declared that the
group “proclaim their reverence in close harmonies
and gutsy improvisations that leap heavenward,"
while All Music Guide called Duets a "...delightful
14-track compilation...everything invariably gets
lifted to a new plane..." BlogCritics.org added that
Duets "is not only a pleasure to listen to, but far
more sincere than just about anything you're liable
to hear on pop radio these days..."
The Blind Boys of Alabama are recognized
worldwide as living legends of gospel music.
Celebrated by both the Grammys and The
National Endowment for the Arts with Lifetime
Achievement Awards, inducted into the Gospel
Music Hall of Fame, and winners of five Grammy®
Awards, they have attained the highest levels of
recognition in a career that spans over 60 years and
shows no signs of diminishing. Longevity and major
awards aside, The Blind Boys have earned praise
for their remarkable interpretations of everything
from traditional gospel favorites to contemporary
spiritual
material by acclaimed songwriters such as
Curtis Mayfield, Prince and Tom Waits. Their
performances have been experienced by millions on
“The Tonight Show,” “Late Night with David
Letterman,” the Grammy® Awards telecast,
“60 Minutes,” and on their own holiday PBS Special.
The Blind Boys' live shows are roof- raising musical
events that appeal to audiences of all cultures, as
evidenced by an international itinerary that has taken
them to almost every continent. In 2007, they released
the Grammy winning album, Down in New Orleans,
their first for Saguaro Road Records,
which was
followed in 2008 by a companion DVD, Live in
New Orleans.
Blind Boys of Alabama Christmas Tour:
11/29/2009 Perth ON CANADA, Perth Collegiate, Evening with
12/1/2009 Kingston ON CANADA, Grand Theatre, Evening with
12/2/2009 St. Catharines ON CANADA, Sean O’Sullivan Theatre, Evening with
12/3/2009 Oakville ON CANADA, Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts, Evening with
12/5/2009 Berwyn IL, FitzGerald's
12/8/2009 State University AR, Arkansas State University - The Fowler Center, evening with
12/10/2009 Hays KS, Fort Hays State University, Evening with
12/12/2009 St. Louis MO, The Sheldon Concert Hall, Evening with
12/13/2009 Iowa City IA, The Englert Theater, Support Kevin “B.F.” Burt
12/16/2009 Minneapolis MN, Orchestra Hall, Evening with
12/17/2009 Wisconsin Rapids WI, Performing Arts Center of Wisconsin Rapids, Evening with
12/18/2009 Grand Rapids MN, Myles Reif Performing Arts Center, Evening with
BLIND BOYS RELEASE "DUETS"
Tue, Oct. 27 2009
Featuring Collaborations With Ben Harper, Randy Travis, Bonnie Raitt and More, Including Previously Unreleased Recordings with Lou Reed, John Hammond, and Toots Hibbert
As the Blind Boys of Alabama head into their seventh decade of belting out impeccable harmonies it’s only fitting for them to release DUETS, a special anthology featuring 14 unique collaborations. The CD, out now on Saguaro Road Records, includes classics from other artists’ Grammy-winning CDs plus four brand new tracks. The first single off of DUETS, “Perfect Peace,” is now available and features Jamaican reggae legend Toots Hibbert of Toots and the Maytals. Said Toots, “I grew up musically in the church and it was great working with the Blind Boys and capturing the spiritual vibe I love.” Unlike some of their old-time gospel music brethren, the Blind Boys eagerly embrace the popular music world, bringing gospel music to mainstream audiences. As a result the group has formed fast friendships with an impressive array of musicians – venerable colleagues and youthful protégés alike - who span a wealth of genres. Many artists have asked the Blind Boys to guest on their projects and their new release documents these rich, eclectic and cohesive interactions. DUETS ranges from rock to reggae, country to contemporary Christian, and blues to ballads, all unified by the Blind Boys’ deep, soulful harmonizing. DUETS features three previously unreleased tracks - with Lou Reed, John Hammond and Toots Hibbert - as well as a new song with Timothy B. Schmit of the Eagles which will be simultaneously released on his forthcoming CD. Also included is the audio version of a tune with Marva Wright which, until now, was only available on video on the Blind Boys’ "Live In New Orleans" DVD. The album also includes performances with Ben Harper, Randy Travis, Bonnie Raitt, Solomon Burke, Susan Tedeschi, Jars of Clay, Charlie Musselwhite, Asleep At The Wheel, and Dan Zanes. Of the nine previously-released tracks on DUETS, seven have appeared on Grammy- nominated or Grammy-winning albums. The diverse group of artists that make up DUETS reflects the expansive appeal of the group as well as the sweeping reverence for their talent.
To purchase this album, as well as many others, click here!
BLIND BOYS OF ALABAMA TO RELEASE "DUETS"
Featuring Collaborations With
Ben Harper, Randy Travis, Bonnie Raitt and More,
Including Previously Unreleased Recordings with
Lou Reed, John Hammond, and Toots Hibbert
Due October 27th On Saguaro Road Records
First Single, “Perfect Peace,” With Toots Hibbert Available
Now
Fairfax, VA (September 14, 2009) --- As the Blind Boys
of Alabama head into their seventh decade of belting out
impeccable harmonies it’s only fitting for them to release
Duets, a special anthology featuring 14 unique
collaborations. The CD, due out October 27th on Saguaro
Road Records, includes classics from other artists’
Grammy-winning CDs plus four brand new tracks.
The first single off of Duets, “Perfect Peace,” is now available
on itunes and features Jamaican reggae legend Toots
Hibbert of Toots and the Maytals. Said Toots, “I grew up
musically in the church and it was great working with the
Blind Boys and capturing the spiritual vibe I love.”
Unlike some of their old-time gospel music brethren, the
Blind Boys eagerly embrace the popular music world,
bringing gospel music to mainstream audiences. As a result
the group has formed fast friendships with an impressive
array of musicians – venerable colleagues and youthful
protégés alike - who span a wealth of genres. Many artists
have asked the Blind Boys to guest on their projects and
their new release documents these rich, eclectic and
cohesive interactions. Duets ranges from rock to reggae,
country to contemporary Christian, and blues to ballads, all
unified by the Blind Boys’ deep, soulful harmonizing.
Duets features three previously unreleased tracks - with
Lou Reed, John Hammond and Toots Hibbert - as well as a
new song with Timothy B. Schmit of the Eagles which will be
simultaneously released on his forthcoming CD. Also
included is the audio version of a tune with Marva Wright
which, until now, was only available on video on the Blind
Boys’ Live In New Orleans DVD. The album also includes
performances with Ben Harper, Randy Travis, Bonnie Raitt,
Solomon Burke, Susan Tedeschi, Jars of Clay, Charlie
Musselwhite, Asleep At The Wheel, and Dan Zanes. Of the
nine previously-released tracks on Duets, seven have
appeared on Grammy-nominated or Grammy-winning
albums. The diverse group of artists that make up Duets
reflects the expansive appeal of the group as well as the
sweeping reverence for their talent.
The Blind Boys of Alabama are recognized worldwide as
living legends of gospel music. Celebrated by both the
Grammys and The National Endowment for the Arts with
Lifetime Achievement Awards, inducted into the Gospel
Music Hall of Fame, and winners of five Grammy® Awards,
they have attained the highest levels of recognition in a
career that spans over 60 years and shows no signs of
diminishing. Longevity and major awards aside, The Blind
Boys have earned praise for their remarkable interpretations
of everything from traditional gospel favorites to
contemporary spiritual material byacclaimed songwriters
such as Curtis Mayfield, Prince and Tom Waits. Their
performances have been experienced by millions on “The
Tonight Show,” “Late Night with David Letterman,” the
Grammy® Awards telecast, “60 Minutes,” and on their own
holiday PBS Special. The Blind Boys' live shows are roof-
raising musical events that appeal to audiences of all
cultures, as evidenced by an international itinerary that has
taken them to almost every continent. In 2007, they
released the Grammy winning album, Down in New Orleans,
their first for Saguaro Road Records, which was followed in
2008 by a companion DVD, Live in New Orleans.
About Direct Holdings:
The CD will be released on the new Saguaro Road Records
label, launched in 2008 by Direct Holdings Americas Inc,
the company that also markets and sells audio and video
entertainment products under the Time Life trademark,
which it uses under license from Time Warner Inc. Time
Life and the Time Life logo are registered trademarks of
Time Warner Inc. and affiliated companies, used under
license by Direct Holdings Americas Inc., which is not
affiliated with Time Warner Inc. or Time Inc. Headquartered
in Fairfax VA, Direct Holdings Americas Inc.'s history began
in 1961 as a direct marketing division of Time Incorporated
specializing in music and books. The business has been
operated as a separate company since the mid-1970s when
it relocated to Virginia, and has since grown to become one
of the world's largest direct marketers of audio and video
products throughout North America, Europe and Australia.
The Company has set the standard in the direct response
industry by pioneering direct marketing techniques and
building one of the most trusted and recognized brands in
commerce. The Company now also sells its products
through major traditional and non-traditional retailers
around the world as well as via the Internet. The Company
was sold in 2003 to private investors. Saguaro Road
Records is a trademark of Direct Holdings Americas Inc.
Launched in June 2008, the label has signed American
music icons the Blind Boys of Alabama, Patty Loveless,
Tanya Tucker and Dion.
For further information, please logon to either:
http://www.blindboys.com or
www.timelifeentertainment.com
BLIND BOYS OF ALABAMA
Duets
Track listing
1. Take My Hand Ben Harper
2. Magnificent Sanctuary Band Susan Tedeschi
3. Perfect Peace Toots Hibbert
4. Up Above My Head Randy Travis
5. Secular Praise Timothy B. Schmit
6. I Had Trouble Charlie Musselwhite
7. When The Spell Is Broken Bonnie Raitt
8. Nothing But The Blood Jars of Clay
9. Welcome Table Dan Zanes
10. None Of Us Are Free Solomon Burke
11. Jesus Lou Reed
12. How I Got Over Marva Wright
13. The Devil Ain’t Lazy Asleep At The Wheel
14. One Kind Favor John Hammond
The Blind Boys of Alabama
continued their unprecedented winning streak with two new Gospel Music
Association Dove Awards, handed out during the 40th Annual Dove
Awards in Nashville last week.After accepting their trophies in the Traditional Gospel Recorded Song
and Traditional Gospel Album (for their 2008 critically acclaimed release Down
In New Orleans) categories, the Blind Boys
started the show’s final performance with a rousing rendition ofthe Dove-winning song “Free At Last”
(with Mac Powell from Third Day sitting in) that brought the audience to their
feet. They then performed “Oh Happy Day” with Edwin Hawkins and an all-star
cast as the grand finale of the night.
The Blind Boys add their new Dove Awards to an
already-crowded trophy shelf.Earlier this year, they were honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award
at the 2009 Grammys and also took home their fifth Grammy for Best Traditional
Gospel Album.The Blind Boys have
been inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame and awarded the NEA’s Heritage
Fellowship for Lifetime Achievement, as well as many other prestigious honors,
earning them the true distinction of “living gospel legends.”The Blind
Boys of Alabama are Jimmy Carter, Eric 'Ricky' McKinnie, Joey Williams, Tracy
Pierce, Billy Bowers and Ben Moore.
The group recently released Live In New
Orleans, a concert DVD filmed at
the city’s historic club Tipitina’s during the 2008 New Orleans Jazz and
Heritage Festival. A companion to their Down in New Orleans album, the DVD continues their heartfelt tribute to
the Crescent City and includes guest appearances by Susan Tedeschi as well as
New Orleans-born acts the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, Dr. John, Henry Butler
and Marva Wright.Live in New Orleans combines new songs and
old favorites, with selections from the Down in New Orleans disc performed alongside songs from the Blind
Boys’ four other Grammy-winning CDs as well as several classic gospel
tunes.The DVD also features
bonus material: “The Making of Down in New Orleans” program which aired on BET earlier this year, and
the music video for “Free at Last,” which was filmed in the Crescent City.
ATLANTA (Feb. TBD 2009) –
Gospel Music Channel (http://www.gospelmusicchannel.com)
will give viewers an exclusive sneak preview of the new concert DVD release
from the legendary five-time GRAMMY-winning group The Blind Boys of Alabama when it world premieres Live in New Orleans on Monday, Feb 23 at 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time (encores 12:00 & 1:30 a.m.)The concert DVD, Live in New
Orleans, hits stores the next day,
Feb. 24 via Saguaro Road Records.
Live In New Orleans was filmed at the city’s historic club Tipitina’s
during the 2008 New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival. Inspired by the Blind
Boys' GRAMMY Award-winning, critically-acclaimed album Down in New Orleans, the DVD continues their heartfelt tribute to the
Crescent City and includes guest appearances by old friend Susan Tedeschi as
well as New Orleans-born acts the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, Dr. John, Henry
Butler and Marva Wright.Live in New Orleans combines new songs and
old favorites, with selections from the Down in New Orleans disc performed alongside songs from the Blind Boys’
other GRAMMY-winning CDs as well as several classic gospel tunes.
The Blind Boys of Alabama achieved an exceptional double
honor at the 51st Annual
Grammy Awards in Los Angeles earlier this month. First they received The Recording Academy’s Lifetime Achievement Award,
whichrecognizes honorees for the
legacy of their recordings andtheir impact on popular music. This tribute welcomed the group into a
venerated club that includes the likes of Bob Dylan, Louis Armstrong, Frank
Sinatra and Miles Davis.Then
they won their fifth Grammy Award, taking home the trophy in the Best
Traditional Gospel Album category for Down in New Orleans. Rarely has a band been honored for a lifetime of
work and also for their most recent output at the same time.
The Blind Boys of Alabama
thrill and inspire audiences the world over.Formed in 1939, The Blind Boys still continue to create
critically acclaimed recordings and reach new career heights even today.In recent years the group has been
featured on “60 Minutes,” “Regis & Kelly,” “The Tonight Show”and the “Late Show with David
Letterman”, performed on the 2005 Grammy Awards telecast, and appeared in the
2003 movie “The Fighting Temptations” alongside Beyonce and Cuba Gooding Jr.They sang a Phil Collins tune in
Disney’s “Brother Bear” animated film, and were also the inspiration for the
Steven Bochco TV series “Blind Justice.”The Blind Boys have also been inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of
Fame and awarded the NEA’s Heritage Fellowship for Lifetime Achievement, as
well as many other prestigious honors, earning them the true distinction of
“living gospel legends.”The Blind Boys of Alabama are Jimmy Carter, Eric 'Ricky'
McKinnie, Joey Williams, Tracy Pierce, Billy Bowers and Ben Moore.
Gospel Music Channel is the fastest-growing network in television and can
be seen in more than 40 million homes on various cable systems around the
country and on DIRECTV on channel 338.
(Fairfax, VA) – The Blind Boys of Alabama achieved an
exceptional ‘perfecta’ at the Grammy Awards in Los Angeles this past weekend.
On Saturday, they received a Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing the
tremendous artistic success built during their 60 year-plus recording career.
Then they won their fifth Grammy Award Sunday, taking home the trophy in the
Best Traditional Gospel Album category for their 2008 release Down in New
Orleans, which was produced by roots music
producer Chris Goldsmith. Rarely has a band been honored for a lifetime of work
and also for their most recent output at the same time. And they show no signs
of slowing down. On February 24th, the Blind Boys of Alabama will
release a new concert DVD, Live in New Orleans (Saguaro Road), filmed at Tipitina’s club during
last year’s JazzFest and including guest performances by Dr. John, Susan
Tedeschi, the Preservation Hall Jazz Band and more.
“We've worked a long time for this and are thankful to be
recognized," said founding member Jimmy Carter at the invitation-only
ceremony on Saturday.In addition
to the Grammy honors, the Blind Boys have also been inducted into the Gospel
Music Hall of Fame and awarded the NEA’s Heritage Fellowship for Lifetime
Achievement, as well as many other prestigious honors, earning them the true
distinction of “living gospel legends.”The Blind Boys of Alabama are Jimmy Carter,
Eric 'Ricky' McKinnie, Joey Williams, Tracy Pierce, Billy Bowers and Ben Moore.
The forthcoming Live In New Orleans DVD was filmed at the city’s historic club
Tipitina’s during the 2008 New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival. Inspired by
the Blind Boys’ critically acclaimed album Down in New Orleans, the DVD continues their heartfelt tribute to the
Crescent City and includes guest appearances by old friend Susan Tedeschi as
well as New Orleans-born acts the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, Dr. John, Henry
Butler and Marva Wright.Live in New Orleans combines new songs and
old favorites, with selections from the Down in New Orleans disc performed alongside songs from the Blind Boys’
four Grammy-winning CDs as well as several classic gospel tunes.The DVD also features bonus
material: “The Making of Down in New Orleans” program which aired on BET earlier this year, and
the music video for “Free at Last,” which was filmed in the Crescent City.
LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
Mon, Feb. 9 2009
The Blind Boys of Alabama
by Ben Harper
Close your eyes for a few moments, and with them closed
imagine the mid-1930's - the Great Depression, the dust bowl,
silent movies and deep-rooted segregation with no end in sight.
Envision with closed eyes a town called Talladega, Alabama,
home to a school named the Alabama School for the Negro Deaf
and Blind - a school where weaving baskets and caning chairs were
considered the highest possible vocations. This was the birthplace
of the greatest gospel traditon in American history. This was the
birthplace of The Blind Boys Of Alabama. From the invention of
television to the invention of the internet, through world wars and
cold wars, from FDR to Barack Obama, and now well into their
eighth decade of touring, writing and recording, the Blind Boys
have not only faithfully remained, endured and persevered, they
have evolved, thrived, and flourished as the premier purveyors of
gospel music the world over. When you hear the Blind Boys singing
it is as instantly recognizable as it is original, inhabiting a place in the
soul no others can. Having the opportunity to write, sing, record and
tour with The Blind Boys of Alabama has been the highest musical
priviledge in my lifetime. I still sit in humble disbelief when I hear my
voice singing with theirs. The memories of our time and friendship are
as sacred as the sound that comes from their voices. From the famed
Capitol Studios to the Apollo Theater in Harlem - where I had, respectively,
the great privilege of recording and performing with them - from the floor of
the United Nations to the White House, The Blind Boys of Alabama have
triumphantly carried soul gospel music into the 21st century, producing
a timeless body of work that will inspire generations to come.
Ben Harper and The Blind Boys of Alabama performed
together on the GRAMMY-winning album, 'There Will Be A Light'.
Blind Boys of Alabama take home Grammy Award San Jose Mercury News - CA, USA AP LOS ANGELES—The Blind Boys of Alabama took home a Grammy Award last (Sunday) night. The acclaimed group of gospel singers won for Traditional Gospel ...
The 2009 Grammys: What You Didn't See On TV Billboard - New York,NY,USA Asked how the five-time Grammy winners Blind Boys of Alabama felt about the election of the first black president without being able to see him, ...
Essence Music Festival to feature Beyonce, Maxwell, Ne-Yo, John... The Times-Picayune - NOLA.com - New Orleans,LA,USA The Sierra Leone Refugee All Stars, Sharon Jones & the Dap Kings, Raphael Saadiq, Zap Mama, theBlind Boys of Alabama, Lalah Hathaway, Janelle Monae,...
Essence Festival Adds Maxwell, Al Green, Ne-Yo Billboard - New York,NY,USA ...Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings, Zap Mama, The Knux, Irvin Mayfield, Lalah Hathaway,Blind Boys of Alabama, Ledisi, Marva Wright, Big Sam's Funky Nation,
It's not coming out until February 24, 2009 but YOU can order it NOW!
Blind Boys "LIVE IN NEW ORLEANS" DVD!
Featuring special guests: Susan Tedeschi, Dr. John, Preservation Hall Jazz Band, Henry Butler, and Marva Wright
SANTA MONICA, Calif.--The Recording Academy® has named Gene Autry, the Blind Boys Of Alabama, the Four Tops, Hank Jones, Brenda Lee, Dean Martin, and Tom Paxton as recipients of the Lifetime Achievement Award. George Avakian,Elliott Carter, and Allen Toussaint are honored with the Trustees Award. Clarence "Leo" Fender and Universal Audio will receive theTechnical GRAMMY® Award. The special invitation-only ceremony will be held during GRAMMY Week on Saturday, Feb. 7, and a formal acknowledgment will be made during the 51st Annual GRAMMYAwards telecast, which will be held at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles on Sunday, Feb. 8, 2009, and broadcast live at 8 p.m. ET/PT on the CBS Television Network.
"This year's recipients are a prestigious group of legendary performers, creative architects and technical visionaries who have made lasting contributions to the music and global communities," said Neil Portnow, President/CEO of The Recording Academy. "Their outstanding accomplishments, legendary passion and artistry have positively affected our culture and will continue to influence and inspire generations to come."
The Lifetime Achievement Award honors lifelong artistic contributions to the recording medium while the Trustees Award recognizes outstanding contributions to the industry in a non-performing capacity. Both awards are determined by vote of The Recording Academy's National Board of Trustees. Technical GRAMMY Award recipients are determined by vote of The Academy's Producers & Engineers Wing Advisory Council and Chapter Committees as well as The Academy's Trustees. The award is presented to individuals and companies who have made contributions of outstanding technical significance to the recording field.
GRAMMY winners the Blind Boys Of Alabama(Clarence Fountain, George Scott*, Johnny Fields, Jimmy Carter, Eric "Ricky" McKinney,and Joey Williams) have spread the spirit and soul of traditional and contemporary Gospel music for more than seven decades. Originally formed at the Alabama Institute for the Negro Blind in 1939, the Blind Boys have recorded more than 60 albums, performed in numerous churches, auditoriums, and stadiums across the country, and received various awards throughout their illustrious career. They have recorded or performed with such artists as Peter Gabriel, Ben Harper, John Legend, k.d. lang, Bonnie Raitt, and Kanye West.
The Blind Boys of Alabama’s
latest release, Down In New Orleans, has
been nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Traditional Gospel Album.
Released on January 29th, Down in New Orleans represents the band’s desire to bring hope to the
still-storm-ravaged city and includes performances by some of New Orleans’
finest, including Allen Toussaint, The Hot 8 Brass Band, and The Preservation
Hall Jazz Band.“We may not be
able to swing a hammer,” explains founding member Jimmy Carter, “but we hope we
can help inspire folks with a song.”
Produced by Chris Goldsmith, The Washington Post said of the record, "Inspired and relevant, [Down In New Orleans] borders on the miraculous." USA
Today praised the "rousing
musical tribute to New Orleans," Rolling Stone called it “A super weapon of roots-music uplift,”
while the Toronto Sun gasped that
the CD is “Inspirational.
The Blind Boys are currently on their Christmas
tour and will be on tour throughout 2009 including performing the National
Anthem at the Fiesta Bowl on Jan. 5.
Not to suggest the Sunday lineups didn’t offer anything worth seeing; nothing could be further from the truth. There was just a different feel in the air. For instance, nothing seemed more appropriate for a Sunday afternoon than the Blind Boys of Alabama. Whatever one’s religious persuasions, the Blind Boys’ music is some powerful stuff, and the group deftly mixes together the sacred and the profane to mutual benefit. Any given Blind Boy looks old as Methuselah, yet they all wear trendy designer sunglasses, and anyone expecting your typical church fare might have been surprised to hear frontman Jimmy Lee Carter announce into the microphone, in a voice as heavy as thunder: “Now, the Blind Boys of Alabama do not like a quiet crowd! We like a noisy crowd! Because the Gospel is good news, and you’re supposed to make a joyful noise!”
Joined onstage by Clarence Fountain, a former full-time Blind Boy who reduced his tour schedule due to health problems, the group seems capable of converting an ark-load of atheists with nothing more than a few vocal harmonies. The group delivered rousing versions of familiar numbers like “People Get Ready” and “Way Down in the Hole” (also known as theme to The Wire), and together with the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, with whom the Blind Boys recorded their last album, they lead the crowd in an inspiring “I’ll Fly Away”. “Uncloudy Day”, however, was the emotional kicker of the hour; to hear a blind man sing a slow gospel tune about the un-cloudy day in heaven, and to feel the sun on one’s face; well, it was about as religious an experience as any I’ve had in a while. Whatever the Good Lord may think of rock and roll on a Sunday at a thing called the Voodoo Experience, one can hope the Blind Boys put in a good word.
for a 2009 Stellar Award for 'Quartet of the Year'!!
Award show to be held Jan 17 in Nashville
(The Blind Boys to be on tour in Ohio that night).
This year's list of nominees includes stars from every genre
of
Gospel music including Traditional, Contemporary,
Urban and Rap/Hip-Hop.
The 24th Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards Show
will be held, once
again, at the historic Grand Ole Opry House
in Nashville on January 17,
2009.
The awards show will be co-hosted by comedian
Sinbad and others to
be announced.
###
BLIND BOYS in NYC MOVIE THEATERS ON NOVEMBER 5TH!
Fri, Oct. 31 2008
Do you live in the New York City metro area? If so, don't miss the one hour Woodsongs' broadcast of The Blind Boys of Alabama performing material from their latest CD, "Down In New Orleans" on the big screen (in movie theaters!) on Nov. 5!
Tickets for the show can be purchased through Clearview Cinemas:
You can also enter to win the new CD at each of the showings!
Let's all go to the movies!
CLARENCE FOUNTAIN & PRESERVATION HALL JOIN THE BLIND BOYS ON STAGE AT VOODOO-FEST IN NEW ORLEANS!
Tue, Oct. 28 2008
The Blind Boys arrived on Voodoo's WWOZ/SoCo Stage early Sunday afternoon decked out in matching powder blue suits and open-collar black shirts - all except semi-retired Blind Boy Clarence Fountain. Fountain no longer tours with the group, preferring to live quietly in Baton Rouge. But he sat onstage for most of Sunday's set, singing on occasion....
See the whole story in the New Orleans Time-Picayune:
RAVE REVIEWS FOR 'DOWN BY THE RIVERSIDE' TOUR, featuring The Blind Boys and Preservation Hall Jazz Band!
Mon, Oct. 27 2008
“An inspirational alliance between two legendary regional traditions.” -Village Voice
“…an evening of upbeat, optimistic and quintessentially American music.…they sang with all the passionate joy that has won them multiple Grammys over the years. …high-energy performances that had the audience on its feet to the very end.”
-Washington Post
“A rare, soul-stirring affair.” -Time Out New York
“Some say you can never have too much of a good thing, and if that’s true, then the Down By The Riverside tour is the proof.”
-JamBase
“Plenty of southern color.” -New York Times
“The personnel may change over time, but it's easy to see why both of these groups have endured and thrived for decades. Authenticity, conviction and a sense of humor have served them well over the long haul.” -Birmingham News
“Each song was more stirring, soulful and downright rocking than the last.This was raise-the-roof, clap-your-hands, praise-the-Lord abandon. Pretty much as good as it gets." -Montreal Gazette
Experience it for yourself!
Buy tickets to see the "Down By The Riverside" Tour LIVE!
10/26 New Orleans, LA – Voodoo Fest
11/06 Washington, DC – DAR Constitution Hall
11/09 Cerritos, CA – Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts
11/21 Dallas, TX – McFarlin Auditorium
11/22 San Antonio, TX – Majestic Theater
11/23 Austin, TX – The Long Center for the Performing Arts
(click the SHOWS link for The Blind Boys of Alabama's complete tour schedule!)
DOWN BY THE RIVERSIDE TOUR KICKS OFF SEPTEMBER 16th!
Mon, Sep. 15 2008
Blind Boys of
Alabama, Preservation Hall Jazz Band announce
collaborative tour!!!
TWO legends of
gospel & jazz hit the ROAD AFTER recording together on the blind boys’ latest CD 'DOWN IN NEW ORLEANS'
The Blind Boys
of Alabama and the Preservation Hall Jazz Band continue to bring attention to
the rich musical heritage of New Orleans by announcing “Down By The Riverside,”
a co-billed tour, starting Sept. 16, 2008 through March of 2009.These two historic institutions join
together to share with audiences the jubilance and richness of New Orleans as
the city continues to rebuild and revitalize.In January, the Blind Boys released Down In New Orleans, their first album ever recorded in the
Big Easy. The album continues to receive overwhelming critical acclaim, and
features guest performances by the legendary Allen Toussaint, local kingpins
the Hot 8 Brass Band, and the Preservation Hall Jazz Band.In April the Blind Boys and Preservation
Hall performed together, along with special guests Dr. John, Susan Tedeschi,
and others, at a sold-out concert at Tipitinas in New Orleans. The show was
recorded for a DVD due for release in early 2009.
Released on January 29th, 2008,
Down In New Orleans represented
the Blind Boys desire to draw hope to the still storm-ravaged city.The Washington Post said “Inspired and relevant, (Down In
New Orleans) borders on
the miraculous.”USA Today praised the “rousing musical tribute to
New Orleans,” while Rolling Stone
called it “A super weapon of roots-music uplift” and the Toronto Sun gasped, “inspirational.”
About the
Blind Boys:
The Blind Boys
of Alabama thrill and inspire audiences the world over.Formed in 1939, The Blind Boys still
continue to create critically acclaimed recordings and reach new career heights
even today.In recent years the
group has won FOUR consecutive Grammy Awards, were featured on “60 Minutes,”
“Regis & Kelly,” “The Tonight Show”and the “Late Show with David Letterman”, performed on the 2005 Grammy
Awards telecast, and appeared in the 2003 movie “The Fighting Temptations”
alongside Beyonce and Cuba Gooding Jr.They sang a Phil Collins tune in Disney’s “Brother Bear” animated film,
and were also the inspiration for the Steven Bochco TV series “Blind
Justice.”The Blind Boys have also
been inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame and awarded the NEA’s Heritage
Fellowship for Lifetime Achievement, as well as many other prestigious honors,
earning them the true distinction of “living gospel legends.”
About the
Preservation Hall:
Dedicated to
preserving and perpetuating New Orleans Jazz, the world renowned, Preservation
Hall Jazz Band derives its name from the venerable music venue founded in 1961
by Allan and Sandra Jaffe. Located in the heart of the French Quarter,
Preservation Hall presents New Orleans Jazz on a nightly basis. Post
Katrina, the band’s mission became increasingly important as a result of the
severe physical and cultural loss due to the flooding of New Orleans. The
son of the founders and Creative Director, Ben Jaffe, co founded The New
Orleans Musicians Hurricane Relief which continues to operate today as Sweet
Home New Orleans: Renew Our Music. The band’s response to the destruction
was the release of “Made In New Orleans: The Hurricane Sessions” a scrapbook of
Preservation Hall memorabilia from the Preservation Hall archives, new
recordings and tracks recovered from the flooded Seasaint Studios as well as a
DVD of historic Preservation Hall performances. The band was awarded the 2006
National Medal of Arts
by the National Endowment for the Arts, the highest level of recognition by the
Federal Government. Today, the band is comprised of musicians all born
and raised in New Orleans. Many have performed together for over 40 years. The
band tours worldwide carrying on the musical legacy and varied traditions of
New Orleans.
THE 'DOWN BY THE
RIVERSIDE' TOUR:
9/16-21 Fort
Collins, CO - Lincoln
Center
9/23 New
York, NY - B.B.
Kings Blues Club
9/26 Schenectady,
NY - Proctor’sTheatre
9/27 Utica,
NY - Munson-Williams-Proctor Arts Institute
9/28 Washington,
DC - John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
9/30 Buies
Creek, NC - Campbell
University – Turner Auditorium
10/1 Knoxville,
TN- Tennessee
Theatre
10/7 Urbana,
IL - University
of Illinois- Krannert Center
10/10 Glen
Ellyn, IL - College
of DuPage- McAninch Arts Center
10/12 Minneapolis,
MN- Orchestra
Hall
10/16 Gainesville,
FL -University
of Florida – Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
10/18 Birmingham,
AL -University
of Alabama – Alys Stephens Center
10/20 Opelika,
AL- Opelika
Center for the Performing Arts
10/21 Spindale,
NC - IsothermalCommunity College - Foundation Performing Arts
11/9 Cerritos,
CA - Cerritos
Center for the Performing Arts
11/21 Dallas,
TX- McFarlin
Memorial Auditorium
11/22 San
Antonio, TX- Majestic
Theater
11/23 Austin,
TX - The
Long Center
3/26 Lebanon,
NH - Lebanon
Opera House
3/27 Boston,
MA - Symphony
Hall
3/28 Ithaca,
NY - State
Theatre
LIVE CONCERT DVD TAPING 'DOWN IN NEW ORLEANS'
Tue, Apr. 8 2008
TIPITINA'S
APRIL 26
SPECIAL
GUESTS INCLUDE PRESERVATION HALL JAZZ BAND, SUSAN
TEDESCHI AND DR. JOHN
Concert
To Be Filmed For DVD,The
Companion To Their Recent
Critically
Acclaimed CD, Down
In NewOrleans
(Time Life)
Fairfax, VA --- Four-time Grammy winners The Blind Boys of
Alabama will hold a special performance in New Orleans in support of their new
album Down In New Orleans (Time Life), the
group’s first-ever recording made in the Big Easy. The concert, held at
Tipitina’s at 9 p.m. on April 26th, will be filmed for a DVD to be released
early next year.Special guests confirmed for the event
include the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, who
appear on the CD, as well as Dr. John, Susan Tedeschi and Marva Wright.
Released on January 29th, Down in New Orleans represents the band’s desire to bring hope to the
still-storm-ravaged city and includes performances by some of New Orleans’
finest, including David Torkanowsky and The Hot 8 Brass Band.“We may not be able to swing a hammer,”
explains founding member Jimmy Carter, “but we hope we can help inspire folks
with a song.”
The Washington Post said, "Inspired and relevant,
[Down In New Orleans] borders on
the miraculous." USA Today praised the "rousing
musical tribute to New Orleans," Rolling Stone called it “A super weapon
of roots-music uplift,” while the Toronto Sun gasped that the CD is “Inspirational.”
Blind Boys' concerts are legendary, packed with exuberance,
passion and spirit. The Boston Globe observed earlier this month,
"In concert, the Blind Boys of Alabama still raise up their bluesy
hallelujahs to rarefied soul-groove highs."
Blind Boys of Alabama are Jimmy Carter, Eric 'Ricky'
McKinnie, Joey Williams, Tracy Pierce, Billy Bowers and Ben Moore.
WATCH US ON THE GOSPEL MUSIC CHANNEL THIS SATURDAY APRIL 5
Mon, Mar. 31 2008
The Blind Boys of Alabama recently returned to the Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind (where the group started in the 1930’s) and The Gospel Music Channel’s "Kitchen Sink" was there to interview the band and capture the historic celebration of the Institute's 150th Anniversary and the first return visit & performance by the Blind Boys!
The Kitchen Sink will air this Saturday April 5th!!! The episode premieres at 8 pm EST.
It reruns (all time U.S. Eastern):
Saturday 11pm
Sunday 12 noon, 6pm, 11pm
Monday 10am
Tuesday 2pm
The show will roll the "Free At Last" video immediately after the feature story!
Check your local cable listings for GMC and spread the word to TUNE IN!
TOUR OF CANADA INCLUDING TORONTO JAZZ FESTIVAL
Mon, Mar. 24 2008
THE BLIND BOYS OF ALABAMA BRING THE “SPIRIT” OF NEW ORLEANS TO CANADA WITH NATIONAL TOUR INCLUDING TORONTO JAZZ FESTIVAL.
NEW CD ‘DOWN IN NEW ORLEANS’ (TIME LIFE) CALLED "INSPIRATIONAL" (Toronto Sun) AND "MIRACULOUS" (Washington Post).
Four-time Grammy winners The Blind Boys of Alabama have announced a Canadian tour in support of their new album ‘Down In New Orleans’ (Time Life), the group’s first-ever recording adventure in the Big Easy. The CD represents the band’s desire to bring attention, and hope, to the still-storm-ravaged city and features guest appearances by some of New Orleans’ finest, including Allen Toussaint, The Preservation Hall Jazz Band, and The Hot 8 Brass Band.
“We may not be able to swing a hammer,” says founding member Jimmy Carter, “but we hope we can help inspire folks with a song.”
Blind Boys' concerts are joyous celebrations. The Boston Globe observed
earlier this month, "In concert, the Blind Boys of Alabama still raise up
their bluesy hallelujahs to rarefied soul-groove highs."
Rave reviews for 'Down In New Orleans' are pouring in. The Washington Post
says, "Inspired and relevant, ['Down In New Orleans'] borders on the
miraculous." USA Today praises the "rousing musical tribute to New Orleans," and Rolling Stone called it “A superweapon of roots-music uplift.”
THE BLIND BOYS OF ALABAMA – 2008 CANADIAN TOUR
4/5/2008 Halifax, NS Rebecca Cohn Auditorium
5/23/2008 Winnipeg, MB MTS Centre
5/24/2008 Medicine Hat, AB Esplanade Arts & Heritage Center
5/25/2008 Edmonton, AB Winspear Centre
5/26/2008 Calgary, AB Jack Singer Concert Hall
5/28/2008 Victoria, BC Royal Theater
5/29/2008 Vancouver, BC Centre in Vancouver for Performing Arts
5/30/2008 Regina, SK Casino Regina
6/25/2008 Toronto, ON TD Canada Trust Toronto Jazz Festival
7/2/2008 Montreal, QC Montreal Jazz Festival
7/3/2008 Ottawa, ON Cisco Ottawa Blues Festival with special
guest Allen Toussaint
7/5/2008 Summerside, PEI Credit Union Place
7/6/2008 Quebec City, QC Festival d’Ete International de Quebec
TOUR SELLING OUT FAST & SPECIAL NEW ORLEANS SHOW TO BE ANNOUNCED!
Sat, Mar. 22 2008
In support of the NEW CD, 'DOWN IN NEW ORLEANS', the band will be touring worldwide throughout 2008. Be sure to watch the tour page for concert announcements!
In most cases, you can get advance tickets via the venue links on our tour page.
Tickets are selling fast in the U.K., Europe, Canada, and the United States!
Watch for a special New Orleans show with many of the guest musicians that performed on "Down in New Orleans" playing live with The Blind Boys to be announced VERY soon.
RAVE REVIEWS AROUND THE WORLD FOR “DOWN IN NEW ORLEANS"
Fri, Mar. 7 2008
Released on January 29, The Blind Boys of Alabama's new CD “Down In New Orleans” (on Time Life Recorrds) is earning raves around the world.
"A superweapon of roots-music uplift... “
–Rolling Stone
"Jaunty keyboards, sassy horns and willed optimism propel 'Down in New Orleans'.”
–New York Times
"Inspired and relevant... borders on the miraculous."
–The Washington Post
The new album is anchored by a cast of world-class New Orleans musicians and features guests Allen Toussaint, The Preservation Hall Jazz Band, and the Hot 8 Brass Band.
If you missed the band on Late Night with Conan O’Brien recently, you can catch them on The Tonight Show on March 11.
To see them right now, check out their video for the single "Free At Last" on the home page or on the bands' MySpace site.
The Blind Boy's have a new website design & a new merchandise line for the "Down in New Orleans" CD & World Tour! Click on our "Merchandise" button and get the NEW CD now ...it just came out TODAY!
Due to ongoing complications from diabetes, Clarence Fountain is no longer touring with the Blind Boys of Alabama (nor does he appear on the band's new CD).
Even so, the Blind Boys' energetic live show will remain as strong as ever with Ben Moore stepping in for Clarence. Ben has now performed over 100 shows with the Blind Boys, has had his own Grammy-nominated gospel career, and in the past also worked with the likes of Otis Redding and James Brown.
Clarence continues to rest at home and appreciates your thoughts and prayers. In the meantime, the Blind Boys' tradition of musical excellence continues.
FOUR-TIME GRAMMY WINNERS THE BLIND BOYS OF ALABAMA GET 'DOWN IN NEW ORLEANS'
Tue, Nov. 20 2007
NEW ALBUM, OUT JAN. 29 ON TIMELIFE
RECORDED IN THE CRESCENT CITY WITH SPECIAL GUESTS
ALLEN TOUSSAINT, PRESERVATION HALL JAZZ BAND,
AND THE HOT 8 BRASS BAND
They may be from Alabama but they've been spending time in the Crescent City. Four-time Grammy winners The Blind Boys of Alabama's new album 'Down In New Orleans,' their first in three years, will be released January 29, 2008 on the Time Life Music label.
Recording for the first time in New Orleans, The Blind Boys are backed here by a trio of world-class New Orleans musicians: David Torkanowsky (piano), Roland Guerin (bass) and Shannon Powell (drums). Other guests include legendary pianist/producer and Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Allen Toussaint, The Preservation Hall Jazz Band, and the horn-heavy Hot 8 Brass Band, one of the city's most vital young acts. But the band's deeply soulful and natural voices remain in the spotlight on 'Down In Orleans.'
After performing together for over six decades, The Blind Boys of Alabama have enjoyed one of the more striking comebacks in recent memory. Their last several albums have earned these hipster septuagenarians the best reviews and record sales of their career, four Grammy Awards in a four year span, and a completely new, contemporary audience.
'Down In New Orleans' track listing
1. Free At Last
2. Make a Better World (with The Hot 8 Brass Band)
3. How I Got Over
4. You Got To Move
5. Across the Bridge (with The Preservation Hall Jazz Band)
6. You Better Mind
7. Down by the Riverside (with The Preservation Hall Jazz Band and Allen
Toussaint)
8. If I Could Help Somebody (with Allen Toussaint)
9. Uncloudy Day (with The Preservation Hall Jazz Band)
10. A Prayer
11. I've Got A Home
12. I'll Fly Away (with The Hot 8 Brass Band)
BLIND BOYS "DOWN IN NEW ORLEANS"
Wed, Sep. 26 2007
Two icons of the American cultural landscape will join forces to release “Down In New Orleans” – The Blind Boys of Alabama, Grammy-winning gospel favorites for over six decades, and Time Life, the world’s largest direct marketers of audio and video products.
Recorded in New Orleans at Piety Street Studios with a stellar cast of local artists, “Down In New Orleans” demonstrates how Crescent City soul, so deeply influenced by gospel music, can in return invigorate traditional classics. The CD is anchored by a trio of world-class New Orleans’ musicians (David Torkanowsky, Roland Guerin and Shannon Powell) and includes guest appearances by the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, Allen Toussaint and the Hot 8 Brass Band. A special music preview event is set for Sept. 30 at Preservation Hall from 6-8 p.m. with The Blind Boys and the Preservation Hall Jazz Band.
The Blind Boys of Alabama mix the seasonal with the divine in a soul-stirring Disney Hall show
Mon, Jan. 8 2007
By Randy Lewis, Times Staff Writer
Go tell it on the mountain, indeed.
There's nothing like bona fide gospel music to cleanse the aural palate of the endless shopping-mall renditions of "Jingle Bells" and "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" at this time of year. That's the seasonal blessing the venerated Blind Boys of Alabama brought with their stirring "Go Tell It on the Mountain" holiday program Saturday at Walt Disney Concert Hall.
The long-running ensemble, fronted this night by founding member Jimmy Carter, brought spirit to the forefront, letting its commitment to the gospel tradition stand in for anything resembling proselytizing for this secular outing. Clarence Fountain, the group's longtime focal point, missed Saturday's show because he's undergoing dialysis treatment for his diabetes, according to a Disney Hall spokeswoman. Ben Moore handled his vocal parts.
Fountain's absence, however, didn't create a monumental void, especially given the torrents of vocal power unleashed by latter-day recruit Billy Bowers, a mountain of a man who looked like nothing so much as a chunk of granite in sunglasses and who consistently pushed the emotion toward the heavens.
The four-time Grammy winners mixed spiritually rooted holiday music with their cornerstone gospel songs in a program that was imaginatively conceived, enthusiastically executed and briskly paced. In fact, by the time they reached the end of the 90-minute show, it seemed they'd just gotten warmed up, and their departure came too soon.
Songs such as the concert-opening "Down by the Riverside" and "Go Tell It on the Mountain" are as ubiquitous in the gospel world as "Jingle Bells" is in the realm of holiday music, so it takes considerable smarts to lift them above the conventional. The Blind Boys put their stamp on "Go Tell It" by shifting its musical foundation from major to minor key, lending it additional heft with a tinge of darkness instead of the usual celebratory feeling.
And they delivered their answer to the pop world's mash-up mania with a rendition of "Amazing Grace" that replaced its exceedingly familiar melody with that of "The House of the Rising Sun."
Two mini-segments within the show contained the Christmas music, and the least familiar — "When Jesus Was Born" and "I Pray on Christmas" — fared best, although their turning of "Silent Night" into a soul scorcher also worked beautifully.
The only false note came during that number, when Carter left his spot at center stage, wound his way through the crowd and back onstage with a playful game of pretend-to-end-the-show while continuing to stretch out the song.
Near the end, he feigned fainting into the arms of one of his sighted bandmates. It was clearly a stab at adding a little entertainment dramatics, à la James Brown's multiple stage exits of yore.
But it paled in the context of the genuinely overwhelming spiritual tension that gospel singers can create during a full-on church service. It was the only time this six-decades-old performing institution appeared to forget the scriptural advice to be in the world but not of the world. randy.lewis@latimes.com
