By Glenn (66.73.178.253 - 66.73.178.253) on Sunday, July 21, 2002 - 06:30 am:

Show report (These are my observations):

First Gino Washington WAS a coward and insulted the backup band to make some of them them walk off stage. This was totally uncalled for and ended up where Gino just left the stage not to come back on stage to sing any more. Never saw this happen anywhere. He blamed the new bass player but it just wasn't so. Tempermental and totally ego/selfish - knew the audience was waiting to hear him sing Gino is a coward - guess he was.

Carolyn Crawford looked GREAT and sounded even better with her only one song of "My Guy". This lady is real talent and what a treat to hear her sing!

JJ Barnes put on a great performance sounded just like he did way back when. He voice sounded strong and he did not strain at hitting any notes.

Nathaniel Mayer was a true showman and has improved with age. I saw him about 12 years ago and his performance would now rival a younger James Brown. Strong voice and great moves. He was one of the best!

Sir Mack Rice did a fine job and worked really hard to get the audience going.

Latin Counts were gerat in harmony with "Danny Boy" being sung like Jackie Wilson. A fine performance.

Blues guitarist was unreal - what a performance!
Some others there were there but did not perform were Emanuel Laskey & Joey Kingfish - very friendly and seemed to enjoy the night.

Attendence was less than expected but it was a great night with people from England, New York and other states.

The concert lasted from about 8:30 till 1:00am.
I'm sure that there will be other comments but these were my observations. Wanted to make sure the people that couldn't attend at least got some news. Would I go again? You bet - but It really should be a little more organized. For the first concert, it was a huge success.

Glenn

By Ralph (209.240.222.130 - 209.240.222.130) on Sunday, July 21, 2002 - 06:35 am:

Glenn,
Thanks for the report.

By Sue (152.163.189.129 - 152.163.189.129) on Sunday, July 21, 2002 - 07:10 am:

Nathaniel Mayer just knocked me out ... he came out dancing, a ball of energy, and never let up. It's true, James Brown only moved like that when he was way younger. Nathaniel was hoarse and apologized for it, but it didn't matter when he was singing.

When Nathaniel made Jay Johnson (of Nolan Strong and the Diablos) come out to sing the bass part on "Village of Love" that he'd been singing out of sight, behind the curtain -- that's when I got chills, to see two guys from TWO great Fortune Records acts onstage together.

The friends I was with agreed with me that seeing some of the raw talent, we wished it could be presented the way that TJ guy does the PBS Doo-Wop specials. There's so much more talent in Detroit than in other cities, but it needs a suitable setting, band arrangements, professional backup. I didn't stick around for Gino's apparent meltdown with the band -- that's too bad. I'm sure being the co-promoter was a lot of pressure.

The Latin Counts sang great a cappella and Cody Black did a naughty version of "Just My Imagination" -- who knew? It's great that Gino and all involved brought these acts together and presented them, hopefully the next time there'll be a more highly polished production.

For one, they need to be tough and pare down the acts. The two young girls who sang "Hero" -- gong. They aren't Legends yet. Pat Lewis miming to her record -- gong. ANYBODY miming to their record -- nope. The show would have moved faster w/o those acts too. Too many plugs for CDs and an actual politician onstage stumping for votes.

Kenny Martin was great on "I'm Sorry," another great dancer whose moves belied his age. But on his first number, he and the band were in different keys.

What was VERY cool -- that the audience was so evenly divided between black and white, all grooving to the same music.

By Ralph (209.240.222.130 - 209.240.222.130) on Sunday, July 21, 2002 - 03:05 pm:

Thanks Sue,
In spite of the need of a little polishing here and there, it sounds like the event was a success.

By matt (67.37.77.252 - 67.37.77.252) on Sunday, July 21, 2002 - 03:43 pm:

nathaniel mayer stole the show. i've never seen anything quite like it. after hearing years of rumors that the guy was "a mess," i wasn't sure what to expect, but he completely put all fears to rest as soon as he started singing and dancing. the evening had some other high points too, but the 15 minutes or so of nathaniel were alone worth the trip from new york. i can't praise him highly enough. funny, sharp, lascivious, confident, charming, a thrilling singer despite his hoarseness...just an awe-inspiring performance. i'm still shaking my head 11 hours later.

matt

By Chub (152.163.189.129 - 152.163.189.129) on Sunday, July 21, 2002 - 05:12 pm:

I'm still in shock from the way Gino Washington acted on stage. His back up band did not deserve the treatment he gave them. It's something I've never seen before and probably won't forget for a long time. I would have walked off stage too if I was treated that way.

Nathaniel Mayer was amazing!

Calhoon's song "911" was odd, but entertaining in a weird way.

Overall, I had a good time, but the show should have been better organized and had way less Karaoke action.

By Julian (205.188.209.48 - 205.188.209.48) on Sunday, July 21, 2002 - 05:43 pm:

I went! Didn't get there until 11:30 because I could not get off of work, Got there just in time for Carolyn Crawford. That naughty version of "Just My Imagination" was clever! I was shocked at first but then the punch made me laugh!Nathaniel Mayer was bad!!!

By nikki (24.46.200.124 - 24.46.200.124) on Sunday, July 21, 2002 - 11:42 pm:

Thanks for the reports guyz and girlz! I'm really especially happy to hear that Jay Johnson behind Nathaniel Mayer made such a hit! I knew he would. There are very few living bass men who can go as LOW and also as HIGH as Mr. Jay Johnson still can today!!!! Did anyone get any pictures? Would love to see some, either here or via email to me, if possible - mainly of Nathaniel and Jay together!!! Anyone connect with any of the Satintones???? Thanks for your help.

Nikki

By nikki (24.46.200.124 - 24.46.200.124) on Sunday, July 21, 2002 - 11:46 pm:

P.S. No-one mentioned the Royal Jokers? What did they sing? I saw them perform here on the East coast some years ago. And what about the Volumes. Did they sing "I Love You". How did they sound? How many original members are in that group today? Thank you. Nikki

By Willy (209.142.215.163 - 209.142.215.163) on Monday, July 22, 2002 - 03:10 pm:

The last act of the night included members of the Majestics, Royal Jokers, Volumes and Imperials. They were great, but most of the people left by then, too bad, they missed a great act.

By Marilyn (67.217.183.69 - 67.217.183.69) on Monday, July 22, 2002 - 04:32 pm:

Gino probablyu shouldn't have blown it the way he did,but it ended up NOT being Jeff's band, but his son's. They were all drunk by that time & had screwed up a couple of other people before. When Gino tried to get them on track, they were too drunk to care. He was tired & stressed to the limit, & said he'd didn't want to give his audience a bad show,& that the other acts were the impotant ones that night, so he'd rather leave the stage. The next one (before Chrismas) WILL be more organized, with a more professional band (Their singer even tried to pull Nathaniel Mayer off stage!!),etc. Our apoligies for the one mis-hap. The band really DID deserve what they got, believe me.
Marilyn
I'll gladly take any calls or e-mails. 517-536-0891.

By Ralph (209.240.222.130 - 209.240.222.130) on Monday, July 22, 2002 - 06:11 pm:

Marilyn,
It's good to know there are two sides to this story. Shame on the band for not being professional. Well, first time events rarely go as smoothly as one would hope. I'm sure upcoming shows will be more up to your standards.

By david, glasgow, scotland (62.252.128.5 - 62.252.128.5) on Monday, July 22, 2002 - 07:12 pm:

Sis from Detroit had a great time. Here's her pics of Nathaniel and JJ.



Thanks for sending these in Sis.

By Sue (63.85.105.9 - 63.85.105.9) on Monday, July 22, 2002 - 07:17 pm:

Wow! I can see and hear Nathaniel Mayer again just seeing the pictures. Thanks Sis and it was good seeing you Saturday.

By david, glasgow, scotland (62.252.128.5 - 62.252.128.5) on Monday, July 22, 2002 - 07:32 pm:

Another pic from Sis, these are: FROM LEFT TO RIGHT

"SONNY" CARLIS MONROE - THE FALCONS
CYRIL CLARK - THE MAJESTICS
ELIJAH "ELI" DAVIS - THE VOLUMES
MILTON HARRIS - THE IMPERIALS

They were known on the night as the Fellas. Sis says they were fantastic. Great names.

By dowoplady (24.46.200.124 - 24.46.200.124) on Tuesday, July 23, 2002 - 12:25 am:

Those pictures are great! Anyone get one of Jay Johnson with Nathaniel Mayer??????!!!! Would be ever so appreciative to see one, if possible. Thanx in advance. Nikki

By miriam (152.163.189.129 - 152.163.189.129) on Tuesday, July 23, 2002 - 01:34 am:

Jeez! Detroit, MICHIGAN! You GOT IT! What a cranium crusher of a night. Nathaniel Mayer blew my little mind to bits. I've never seen a singer so afire-- every ounce of his lean, mean frame seemed ready to combust. Heart rending, brain spraining, life altering bash. His backing band was fabulous-- overheard somebody say the bass player was an early Funkadelic- information please. Jay Johnson strutting out on "Village of Love" with Nathaniel fairly screaming blood (a good thing!) was as close to The Dream as I've been in the here and now. Meetin' and greetin' the astonishingly approachable stars- Sir Mack Rice fairly dripping in gold, head to toe, Joe Weaver shoutin' out Looka Here Pretty Baby and Baby I Love You So with fans out in the lobby, and Bobby Calhoun eloquently spelling out his vitamin regimen while signing autographs, man it was a gas. The rock, sock & soul of local fans (I'll never forget the shout out for Raw Power when the Latin Counts wrapped up Danny Boy!!!) together with your great heros made us outta towners feel welcome and made us realize the stupendous attitude that makes your town so incredible. Thanks, Detroit! PS- Do it again in a joint without seats and have Nathaniel's band back everybody!

By Millie (68.40.198.72 - 68.40.198.72) on Tuesday, July 23, 2002 - 03:12 am:

I loved the show. What else can I say that's not already been said. Nathaniel Mayer was absolutely incredible; his dancing, singing, energy and pure talent blew me away! Jay Johnson's lending his voice to "Village of Love" was not to be believed! Sir Mack Rice did his "Mustang Sally" good!!!! But, the one guy I wasn't familiar with, Cody Black had me laughing so hard I was in tears...his lyrics to "Just My Imagination" were hysterical...the Latin Counts' Stuart Avig's rendition of "Danny Boy" was awesome. All in all a good time was had by all..of course, we left early and didn't witness any of Gino's temper tantrums...how absolutely unprofessional. I look forward to attending the next Legend's show because this one will be hard to beat despite the problems. WOW.

By david, glasgow, scotland (62.252.128.5 - 62.252.128.5) on Tuesday, July 23, 2002 - 06:06 pm:

This one's for Nikki and again Sis is the photographer. I think she must have had a great seat!

Jay Johnson

By Ritchie (62.254.0.6 - 62.254.0.6) on Tuesday, July 23, 2002 - 07:15 pm:

If you see an eerie glow emanating from the far side of the Atlantic, don't worry... it's just the UK, green with envy at what we missed!

Thanks to all for the superb write-ups, and a a very special thank U to "our" Sis for the pics.

By Fury13 (12.2.196.17 - 12.2.196.17) on Tuesday, July 23, 2002 - 07:16 pm:

Well... I'm still in awe of Nathaniel Mayer's smokin' performance Saturday night. True, the show had its flaws (already detailed in this thread), but Nathaniel was a revelation. He blew me away! And, seeing and hearing Jay Johnson joining in on "Village Of Love" was unbelievable, especially since that was Jay on the original Fortune recording. I had to pinch myself to make sure I wasn't dreaming.

The show was a good start in the right direction. There should be a series of future shows -- a traveling Detroit Classic R&B Revue, if you will, with tighter planning, a topnotch backing band, and maybe six to eight acts that could vary a bit with each show.

By SisDetroit (67.25.215.212 - 67.25.215.212) on Tuesday, July 23, 2002 - 09:04 pm:

Fury13, I too was blown away by Nathaniel. I am still in awe, as you are. I must find out where Nathaniel is performing. I will be there.

Howdy Sue!

Sis

By nikki (24.46.200.124 - 24.46.200.124) on Wednesday, July 24, 2002 - 03:39 am:

David,

Thanks so much for sharing the photo of Jay. Very much appreciated!

Again, I'm so glad to see the glowing reports about Jay (who is near and dear to me)! And some day I hope to see him back up Nathaniel Mayer. I'll have to let some of the promotors here on the East Coast (e.g. Ronnie Italiano of UGHA fame) know about their awesome performance.

In harmony,

Nikki
http://www.harmonytrain.com

By teamaaron (68.41.234.23 - 68.41.234.23) on Wednesday, July 24, 2002 - 05:48 am:

Nathaniel Mayer looking ever so cool. Great performance, he pretty much stole the show.

By Marilyn (67.217.183.101 - 67.217.183.101) on Wednesday, July 24, 2002 - 03:56 pm:

If anyone is interested in booking any of the acts in this show,I'd love to take them anywhere but only 6 or 8 at a time,AND with a good band. The band wasn't my idea, but I sort of had to go along with it this time. Some people have to learn by experience. Believe me, I can put together a good band of real pros in a minute! I'd like to take Nathaniel, the Latin Counts,Jay Johnson, Norman Thrasher, Kenny Martin and let each city name who else they'd like. That would be an awesome show. Agree? Tighten it up & have each one do 4 or 5 songs, if possible. Call if anyone is interested. We,ve already got a lot of interest in a few places. 517-536-0891.

By Marilyn (67.217.183.177 - 67.217.183.177) on Thursday, July 25, 2002 - 06:56 pm:

Gino is not on the internet yet,but he asked me to apologize to his fans for the mess Saturday. He didn't want to embarrass himself or give his fans a bad performance, but felt it was important to have this reunion before the people were no longer with us. We ARE having more shows with less acts (ALL LEGENDS) & much tighter line-up.
Marilyn

By LTLFTC (12.245.225.79 - 12.245.225.79) on Thursday, July 25, 2002 - 09:28 pm:

What's the story with Pat Lewis miming to her record ? Band problems? Voice problems? I was kind of surprised to hear about that performance as I thought she was still doing vocal work recently-any info?
Steve K.

By Millie (207.148.197.36 - 207.148.197.36) on Thursday, July 25, 2002 - 09:38 pm:

She announced that she was going to mime her record because she had a sore throat. The song wasn't bad but I would have rather heard it live!!

By david, glasgow, scotland (62.252.128.5 - 62.252.128.5) on Thursday, July 25, 2002 - 09:50 pm:

Thanks to Sis for more images.
First up is Jay Davis.

By david, glasgow, scotland (62.252.128.5 - 62.252.128.5) on Thursday, July 25, 2002 - 09:52 pm:

and Ken Bell

By DooWop Doll (64.12.97.11 - 64.12.97.11) on Friday, July 26, 2002 - 02:27 am:

I attended the Legends concert and looked forward to it for weeks. I was not disappointed. I have a radio show on 1460 AM on Tuesday nights from 5-7PM called DooWop Dreams. Gino Washington, Nathaniel Mayer, Kenny Martin, George Young and Andy Alonzo of the Latin Counts have all been on recent Doo Wop Dream shows. They are the most amazing gentlemen with such terrific personalities. Every one of them sang to me and my listeners. So many of my listeners called in with questions, trivia and greatly appreciated their talents. Gino Washington is one of the most wonderful entertainers that I have ever met. He presented himself with grace and dignity on my show. He touched my heart and sang to my soul. He was so funny and interesting to listen to. When he brought Nathaniel Mayer and Kenny Martin to another show, he deferred to them and let them have the spotlight. I had hoped the Legend show would be a career highlight for him. The event meant so much to him personally. He really wanted the night to benefit everyone involvd. In his defense, I was sitting in the front row and heard everything that went on stage. The female band singer was openly critical and disrespectful to Gino. The band was certainly not in the right key for many of the performers. The female singer did not take her cues from the performers and totally disregarded Gino's signals and cues. She was rude, crude and self-involved. She could have cared less about the show or the performers. I personally take offense that anyone would call Gino a coward or egotistical. He is a professional. Gino realized that the female singer was incapacitated and incapable of performing with class or in the right key. She intentionally tried to drown out Gino's voice and sing over him while he was in the audience. The Legends concert meant a lot to all the performers- some who rarely perform anymore. They all have paid their dues on stage and off for many years. Each in his own right contributed their voice, songs and talent to put Detroit on the map and in the musical history books.

By Marilyn (67.217.183.218 - 67.217.183.218) on Friday, July 26, 2002 - 07:54 pm:

Thank you ever so much for your observations. The truth is always appreciated. By the way, Ken Bell had a heart attack Monday & open-heart surgery Thursday morning. I'll have a progress report tomorrow, plus the hospital address so he can get cards. See how very fragile some of these great guys can be, even though they still put their heart & soul into their performances. We ARE planning a shorter, tighter show with about 8 of the performers on Dec. 6th. I'll keep rveryone informed.

By david, glasgow, scotland (62.252.128.5 - 62.252.128.5) on Friday, July 26, 2002 - 08:19 pm:

Sis we can't thank you enough for these images.

I possibly like this one the best.

Joe Weaver....For me, a total LEGEND.

By diamond8 (65.129.156.192 - 65.129.156.192) on Saturday, July 27, 2002 - 03:20 am:

Marilyn,
If you are in touch with Nathaniel Mayer, please tell him that Minnie, his old "sweetie" from Barbour Jr. High said hello & that it's great to see so many good things said about his performance. (He'll remember the "garbage can song" he made up about me & sang everyday in class just to get on my nerves..which he did!) I'm a theatrical manager & live in NY now, but hope to catch one of the shows next time I'm really "home." Mack Rice is also an old buddy. My best to all the performers...it's great that they're getting a chance to expose younger generations to some REAL music. My best to you, also.

By david, glasgow, scotland (62.252.128.5 - 62.252.128.5) on Saturday, July 27, 2002 - 09:14 am:

Well Pat may have been miming but she is definitely one of the Queens of the Northern Soul scene.
Thanks again to Sis.....and more images next week!

By Jerry Hipkiss (195.188.41.154 - 195.188.41.154) on Saturday, July 27, 2002 - 12:08 pm:

I'm one of those darn Englishmen who's thoroughly envious of that show - just reading the reviews had me shivering! Still, only about ten weeks to go and at least I'll be seeing J.J. Barnes at the Togetherness weekender. By the way, what did he sing at the concert?

By Sue (152.163.204.182 - 152.163.204.182) on Saturday, July 27, 2002 - 12:12 pm:

Glad there's going to be a Dec. 6 show, whenever I look at the pix of Nathaniel Mayer I can hear him singing.

Re Pat Lewis -- miming was NOT a good idea.

By Marilyn (67.217.183.96 - 67.217.183.96) on Monday, July 29, 2002 - 04:47 pm:

You're right about the miming not being a good idea,BUT she explained that her throat was sore & asked the fans if she should mime or not. They said yes. It was our first show,& it was exactly what we said,.......a fabulous & fun reunion. The Dec, show will be tighter & smoother,but we want all our shows to be fun events.
Marilyn

By Fury13 (12.2.196.17 - 12.2.196.17) on Monday, July 29, 2002 - 05:35 pm:

The pic of "Nathaniel Mayer" with the young female fan is not Nathaniel.

By m (208.130.56.167 - 208.130.56.167) on Monday, July 29, 2002 - 06:09 pm:

yeah, but more important: WHO'S THE YOUNG FEMALE FAN???

By Ralph (209.240.222.130 - 209.240.222.130) on Monday, July 29, 2002 - 06:19 pm:

m,
My thoughts exactly. Because of my reputation here, I was hesitant to ask.

By SisDetroit (67.25.215.144 - 67.25.215.144) on Monday, July 29, 2002 - 07:10 pm:

(LOL) Nathaniel has seen that picture, but I don't know his thoughts. I fill find out if it is him.

Sis

By willy (209.142.215.180 - 209.142.215.180) on Monday, July 29, 2002 - 07:16 pm:

The gentlemen in the picture is one Joey Kingfisher. The legendary R&B producer, and I might add a heck of a nice guy.

By SisDetroit (64.159.120.230 - 64.159.120.230) on Monday, July 29, 2002 - 07:49 pm:

Well, I guess that settles that debate. I called Cyril and he said "It is not", but Mrs. Cyril said "It is". That was funny. So, now I'll call Mrs. Cyril and let her know that she lost the debate. (LOL) Thanks Willy!
Sis

By david, glasgow, scotland (62.252.128.5 - 62.252.128.5) on Monday, July 29, 2002 - 08:11 pm:

Thanks Willy.

It certainly looks like Joey, aka known to Thelma label fans as Joey Kingfish or Joey Stribling.

Here's Joey in the heyday...

By david, glasgow, scotland (62.252.128.5 - 62.252.128.5) on Monday, July 29, 2002 - 08:14 pm:

Graham sees him from time to time, I'll ask him to check it out.

By willy (209.142.215.180 - 209.142.215.180) on Monday, July 29, 2002 - 09:30 pm:

I've known Joey for a few years now. We spent a great deal of the night talking backstage. He still plays guitar and is actually teaching kids how to play, so if you're in the Detroit area and want to learn to play from a soul legend...

By david, glasgow, scotland (62.252.128.5 - 62.252.128.5) on Monday, July 29, 2002 - 09:56 pm:

Thanks for the info Willy. Much appreciated.

By david, glasgow, scotland (62.252.128.5 - 62.252.128.5) on Monday, July 29, 2002 - 10:42 pm:

Sir Mack Rice courtesy of Sis

By david, glasgow, scotland (62.252.128.5 - 62.252.128.5) on Monday, July 29, 2002 - 10:46 pm:

This is Pete Crawford of the Distants/Magnetics alongside Stuart of Latin Counts and Vernard (Plains?), courtesy of Sis

By david, glasgow, scotland (62.252.128.5 - 62.252.128.5) on Monday, July 29, 2002 - 10:51 pm:

Kenny Martin courtesy of Sis

By david, glasgow, scotland (62.252.128.5 - 62.252.128.5) on Monday, July 29, 2002 - 10:55 pm:

Sis was too close to catch all Latin Counts together. Unfortunately I ain't got the expertise to paste these together...

By david, glasgow, scotland (62.252.128.5 - 62.252.128.5) on Monday, July 29, 2002 - 10:56 pm:

This is Calhoun courtesy of Sis

By SisDetroit (67.25.214.207 - 67.25.214.207) on Monday, July 29, 2002 - 10:58 pm:

Now there is another one that made me scream. He got on his knees while he was singing "I'm Sorry.".

Does anyone know the guy in the band on the far left? He wasn't initially with the band, but he came out when Kenny began singing.

By david, glasgow, scotland (62.252.128.5 - 62.252.128.5) on Monday, July 29, 2002 - 10:59 pm:

This is George Young courtesy of Sis

By david, glasgow, scotland (62.252.128.5 - 62.252.128.5) on Monday, July 29, 2002 - 11:02 pm:

After all that effort Sis, I hope someone can help you.

Thanks again

David

By acooolcat (211.72.121.66 - 211.72.121.66) on Tuesday, July 30, 2002 - 04:35 am:

The guy in the white suit with his arm around a young female fan certainly looks like Joesph "Kingfish" Stribling. I know Eric was at the gig and could confrm if that's what Kingfish was wearing.
Graham

By michael (64.12.97.11 - 64.12.97.11) on Tuesday, July 30, 2002 - 05:50 am:

I don't think words exist to describe Nathaniel Mayer's performance that night. From the moment he emerged from behind the curtain, cued his drummer to slam that first snare crack (and he slammed it hard--EXACTLY on Nathaniel's signal), grabbed the mic and went into his frenzied, kinetic, ball of electricity dance moves, one of my lifelong dreams came true. I know that a lot of people didn't know what to expect and were probably ready to cut him some slack if he didn't live up to our crazy hopes and dreams; instead he surpassed every expectation and just tore that place to pieces. To borrow a phrase from Sam the Sham, he was Wired, Fired and Inspired! The guy was just relentless!! His band was fully rehearsed and just killin' it behind him. And speaking of Jay Johnson, how about those invisible, spontaneous backup vocals on "Please, Please, Please" courtesy of--I was told--Jay, Bobby Calhoun and was it George Young? Lord have mercy!
The otherwordly raw energy, the sheer hardcore abandon--it was like everything we love about Fortune Records coming alive right before our very eyes. For those who weren't there, rest assured that every wild vision you've ever had while listening to Nathaniel's records doesn't even begin to conjure up what the man can do to a stage. I came up from New Orleans to see him but there's no limit to the miles I'd travel to see a life-altering performance like this one. Every member of that audience was spellbound. JUSTICE HAS BEEN SERVED!!

By LTLFTC (12.245.225.79 - 12.245.225.79) on Tuesday, July 30, 2002 - 03:11 pm:

Does anyone have a listing of the personnel in the band that backed Nathaniel Mayer?
Steve K.

By RJ Spangler (205.188.209.48 - 205.188.209.48) on Tuesday, July 30, 2002 - 07:13 pm:

I was not there, but I am told the drummer Baby Pepper. Pepper plays with Cash McCall at the Town Pump. The Preacher was living with Pepper before he passed. -RJ

By Marilyn (67.217.183.37 - 67.217.183.37) on Wednesday, July 31, 2002 - 02:56 pm:

For sure, that night was the most fun a lot of us have had in a long time! Give me a few days & I'll have the lin-up for the Dec.6th show. We're going to try to make all our shows real fun times,where the fans can actually meet their favorites plus see them on stage.

By C. Bell/Eric (67.25.205.155 - 67.25.205.155) on Thursday, August 01, 2002 - 03:46 am:

I've absorbed all the positive and negative comments and now it is my turn to be a critic!
/
I want to commend all the promotion staff for assembling a unique blend of performers. It is hard to imagine how many "labor of love" hours were spent on this first reunion show. Gino, Gino, Gino??? What happened? When I saw you and the band at the Magic Stick your TEAM was great! What happened to Jeff And The Atlantics? They were top notch at that performance! It was great that you helped assemble the show and even planned to perform, but maybe my suggestion is that you should delegate some of the duties to others instead of trying to tackle them all yourself. Make amends with Jeff and the Atlantics too! Just my opinion!
There were a lot of great highlights but none could top Nathaniel! It was great to see Nathaniel do his signature song plus songs that were from that time period with a great backing band!! Carolyn Crawford sounded and looked FABULOUS! She did a song from that time period too. J.J. Barnes voice sounded great!!! He did his signature songs!!! What happened to Popcorn Wylie? The Latin Counts sounded super!

I want to thank my Dad for the tickets which allowed me to bring Joey "Kingfish" Stribling as a guest. I met "Kingfish" through Graham and have kind of adopted him as my Soul grandfather! "Kingfish" produced and played on many great Detroit record labels such as:Riley's, Diamond Jim, Ric-Tic, and Thelma. He also had a solo 45 on Checkmate. Before the show "Fish" came over and as I was playing a 45 of "Don't Lead Me On" by Emmanuel Laskey, "Fish" was playing his production right along on my guitar. It is quite a shame that the Funk Brothers never got the acclaim they so deserve(d), but it must be even more frustrating for fine quality Musicians such as "Kingfish", "Popcorn", and Joe Hunter who were the true "Brains" behind independent operations who put out some of the best "SOUL" music to come out of Detroit!

Great Effort but lets stick to the legends!!!

By david, glasgow, scotland (213.122.65.155 - 213.122.65.155) on Thursday, August 01, 2002 - 07:46 am:

Eric

Someone asked about JJ's repetoire for the evening.

Can you recall the songs by name?

By C. Bell/Eric (67.25.208.185 - 67.25.208.185) on Thursday, August 01, 2002 - 10:37 am:

David- I think he did "Please Let Me In" and "Real Humdinger." Later........

By Sue (205.188.209.48 - 205.188.209.48) on Thursday, August 01, 2002 - 01:12 pm:

He definitely did "Real Humdinger" ...

By Marilyn (67.217.183.105 - 67.217.183.105) on Thursday, August 01, 2002 - 04:12 pm:

Gino & Jeff are still friends,but Jeff's day job sometimes makes it impossible to really count on him for important things (like Legends shows), so we're going with full-time musicians from now on. You live & learn. Also, there will be NO MORE non-legends from now on. That was a surprise to me too. Unfortunately,some of these legends have bad days,especially when they're in poor health anyway, so we have to excuse Popcorn.
By the way,Ken Bell is out of the hospital already & improving daily.
There will be posters & t-shirts available at our up-coming shows, PLUS programs. We're trying to make these better & even more fun.
Marilyn

By George Young (64.12.97.11 - 64.12.97.11) on Thursday, August 01, 2002 - 05:39 pm:

When I first heard about the Reunion Show..I knew it was going to be a "trip!" It was one of the most exciting evenings I've ever had in years! No matter what happened that night.. the fact is that it happened! All I can say is that it was about time! Too, bad that many of those great stars from Detroit are no longer with us.. but, somhow, I felt that they were still alive in the theatre. It was an honor to be one of the MC's that night along with Ken and Jay. (Jay: Get better soon, May need you for the next show. Folks, it's not easy to put together 20 acts.. backstage.. while the lights are out.. and the music is "pumpin'... but, other than that, we were singin, dancin and talkin' about the "Old days" with those who were there! By the way, The first Forune Record Recording studio was located on Linwood Ave.. across the street from Roolevelt High School. It was there where I recorded "Buggin Baby".

By the way.. the audience that night was out standing!!!! All ages.. all colors and all were into the show. They were as excited as I was.. just to be there. I hope they didn't mind my stories between acts about "those" days in Detroit.. hope it was interesting.
Many had some interesting stories that I never heard before.

My special thanks to Gino for including me on the show and those the many others who pulled together to make it happen.

P.S. The picture of me and guitar... I havn't played in a while but BOY .. did it feel good to have once again around my shoulders... Thanks everyone for a great evening and I know they'll be more!

By SisDetroit (67.25.223.3 - 67.25.223.3) on Friday, August 02, 2002 - 03:11 pm:

George - You were great, and I enjoyed listening to your reminiscence of your experience to Berry Gordy and Motown.
Sis

By SisDetroit (67.25.217.55 - 67.25.217.55) on Saturday, August 03, 2002 - 01:17 am:

Just in case anyone is interested, Baby Papper is having a 60th birthday celebation on Sunday August 4, 2002 from 6:00pm-12:midnight: At the Town Pump Tavern, 100 West Montcalm, corner of Park. Food provided, cash bar.
Sis

By Sis Detroit (67.25.217.55 - 67.25.217.55) on Saturday, August 03, 2002 - 01:17 am:

Sorry, thats "Baby PEPPER"

By Marilyn (67.217.183.15 - 67.217.183.15) on Sunday, August 04, 2002 - 06:56 pm:

Okay all you Brits & out-of-towners. Friday,Dec.6th is the next Legends concert. The show WILL start on time,but before the show,we'll be showing some old clips from Gino's old TV show. WeeGee,Fantastic Four, Anita Baker,David Ruffin,Eddie Kendricks and MANY more! These will also be for sale in the lobby. We should have copies of the first show too.The show will include Nathaniel Mayer, J.J.Barnes, Carl Carlton, Latin Counts,Kenny Martin, Cody Black. There's a couple more, but I'll let you know for sure the next couple of days. Less acts, more songs per act, tighter show.

By SISDETROIT (67.25.207.37 - 67.25.207.37) on Sunday, August 04, 2002 - 10:32 pm:

THANK YOU MARILYN! )
SIS

By Ralph (209.240.222.130 - 209.240.222.130) on Sunday, August 04, 2002 - 11:12 pm:

It seems to me all has been said that can be said about this past show. If no one objects I would like to put it into the archives. The thread is a little long and we must stop somewhere. Your wish is my command. When the time nears for the next show we can have a thread about that to keep all informed of the upcoming event.

By Glenn (66.73.185.227 - 66.73.185.227) on Monday, August 05, 2002 - 02:04 am:

Please - Please CAROLYN CRAWFORD at the next show!
Glenn

By dowoplady (24.46.200.124 - 24.46.200.124) on Monday, August 05, 2002 - 04:50 am:

Hi Marilyn,

Dec. 6 sounds like a good date and a wonderful show. Will Jay Johnson be part of it too???? Maybe by then we can find our way to make the long-awaited second trip back to the Motor City again.

In harmony,

Nikki
http://www.harmonytrain.com

By Brian T. (216.0.242.76 - 216.0.242.76) on Monday, August 05, 2002 - 06:43 pm:

I am absolutely sick that I missed the show. It was ten minutes from home and I didn't hear a thing about it until Willy filled me in at the Arthur Lee show on saturday night(August 3rd). I guess it's my own fault for not listening to Willy's show on WDET more faithfully. I will not miss the next one!
On another topic, does anyone have a complete discography of the J-V-B label?
I can be contacted at:mrclemma@hotmail.com

By David Meikle (62.252.128.6 - 62.252.128.6) on Wednesday, August 07, 2002 - 07:38 pm:

COURTESY OF MRS. C. CLARKE

WHEN JAY STARTED SINGING BEHIND THE CURTAINS ON VILLIAGE OF LOVE, THE CROWD KEPT SAYING "IS THAT JAY, COME OUT, COME OUT", SO HE GRADUALLY CAME OUT, AND THE CROWD WENT TOTALLY WILD, PEOPLE WERE RUNNING DOWN IN THE FRONT BY THE STAGE TO TAKE PICTURES, NICE CAMERAS TOO (LOL), SO, COMEONE GOT SOME GOOD PICTURES OF THIS. THE QUESTION IS, WHERE ARE THEY?

THIS IS THE BEST WE COULD DO, SO YOU CAN SHARE THIS "FANTASTIC PICTURE" WITH THE FANS.

SIS

By Sue (208.232.121.87 - 208.232.121.87) on Wednesday, August 07, 2002 - 07:52 pm:

Actually Nathaniel called Jay out -- he waved and made him come out from behind the curtain. If the audience yelled that, that's cool although I couldn't hear it from where I was ...great pic!!!

By RJ Spangler (205.188.199.52 - 205.188.199.52) on Monday, August 12, 2002 - 10:44 pm:

Joe Weaver sez hello to George Young! He wants you to email me at rjblues2@aol.com so you and he can talk. -RJ Spangler