Hello everyone, I hope you have had a good year, I know I did. Family, friends and music all make for a full heart and a happy “Big E.” Well, it’s December and that means tons of events big and small, holiday parties and family get togethers. I am kind of taking it easy this month as far as live performances go so that I can focus on getting ready for a huge 2014 but that doesn’t mean there isn’t lots of great stuff to do throughout the month.
First, on December 7th at Congregation Beth Shalom in Modesto (best known for their CBS Sunday Afternoon Concert series) is their annual fundraiser called Latkes & Vodkas. My band, Big Earl and the Cryin’ Shame have been honored to play at this event for the last few years and now it is time to change things up and bring in some new blood. This years event will feature John Clifton from the MoFo Party Band (the only Fresno band to ever win a MAMA Award) and his drummer Brian Bischel, along with Randall Niemann and Eli Lester from BEatCS. I already have my tickets. I look forward to seeing some of the best blues players in the valley on stage together for the first time. If you are looking for a reason to dress up and go out dancing this holiday season look no further.
On December 13th Big Earl and the Cryin’ Shame will be in Merced at the Partisan for a night of blues, music and dancing. This will be our 3rd time playing at the Partisan and I know its going to be a ton of fun.
On December 14th I am honored to be sitting in for a song or two with one of the funnest bands in Modesto, The Wrong Doers. They are hosting the Prospect Theatre Project’s Last Waltz event. This is the final music event that will be held at the theatre’s Scenic Drive location before their big move to their new downtown location on K Street. There will be many other guest performers throughout the night and as I said, this is your last chance to spend a little time in a great room filled with a lot of love and many friendly faces.
One little note about last month- the Poorhouse Millionaires and Ryan Russell and Friends went out on the road for the first time to Phoenix and Tempe, AZ. We had a great time and met some great folks. I for one was overwhelmed by the love and support we received from the ModestoView and from many of our friends and family. It has filled my heart to know how much you all care and I want you to know that I am forever in your debt. Special thanks to Felicia Aleman, Chris Murphy, Tara Madigan, Schuyler Grace, Jeremy Marcanti and Red Chair Recordings. The list could go on but, you get the idea. We look forward to hitting the road again soon. Happy New Year everybody- 2014 better look out ‘cuz here we come.
