RockabillyView By Jennifer Allsup
Rockabilly music is a Modesto music tradition since 1937 and yet there are so many people that don’t know much about it. This month, I will tell you about some of the nominees and encourage you to go out and listen to these bands, online, or live on stage at the Rockabilly shows at Hero’s Brewhouse.
One of our musical legends is nominated this year. Roddy Jackson ( George Rodrick Jackson) Roddy has been playing music since he was 12 years of age in 1954. Influenced by greats, such as Little Richard. Being a multi-talented musician he formed the Blue Notes was signed to Specialty Records back in the day. He later played with Kent Whitt and the Downbeats. Living in Merced Roddy is still playing and teaching music. See what more you can find out on www.facebook.com/roddyjackson
Eli Goodtime & The Oldtimers, “An old sounding Rock n Roll band playing shows we hope you enjoy” says Eli Allsup front man. Our band ranges in age from 16-30 bringing our musical talents together. To give our audiences old and young something they would appreciate when cutting the dance floor. You can find Eli Goodtimes & the Oldtimers on facebook. www.facebook.com/eligoodtimetheoldtimers
Rockin Rick & the Rhythm Wranglers “Wild all out burning a hole in the floor Rock n Roll” as Rick Torres front of the band would tell ya ! These guys are influenced by Hillbilly Pop and Rock n Roll. Rick is owner of Hi Ho Silver Records out of Sonora California. Loving a hot 45 spinning on the juke box. You can find Rockin Rick & the Rhythm Wranglers on facebook. www.facebook.com/frankenstein59
Darlin’ Clementine “We would bet your mom’s boots we’ll show ya a good time” I would say Tess says it best. She is the front lady of the band and a badass Ukulele player. Darlin’ Clementine has your traditional country roots with a Rockabilly twist. Find them on www.facebook.com/darlinclementinemusic
Tony T. & the Rockin’ Cats, Tony Trevino the front of many hats has been playing music for many years from punk rock to Rockabilly. Rockin Rick has joined Tony on this adventure with the Cats slapping the stand-up to the squealing guitar licks. So grab a partner and tear that rug up. Tony is also one of a kind young barber in Modesto. His old school ways of straight shaving and pompadour hair cuts. Known as Tony the Barber. Look up his musical adventures and stylish ways at www.facebook.com/tonythebarber
Little Johnny & the Sleepwalkers are a three piece psychobilly band out of Merced. Little Johnny features members from Gearbox, one of my favorite Merced based band that have had to the chance to play in Modesto on different occasions. Check them out at www.facebook.com/littlejohnnyandthesleepwalkers
Other nominees for 2013 MAMAs are Jailbreak, Miss Michelle and the Misbehaviors, Geronimo and the Scalpers and Smokey Lonesome. No Rockabilly journey would be complete without taking a close listen to these amazing artists. While you’re at it, look up Hi HO Sliver records!
So go take a listen on Youtube.com or Reverbnation.com and cast your vote who will be the Winner of the 2013 MAMA Rockabilly category. There are links to bands on the MAMA Vote page. You can only vote once so make it count. www.modestoaremusic.com
See you all dolled up at the MAMA Oct 23rd
Smiles, Jenn Allsup
