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Delmark Records 55th anniversary celebration
Byther Smith was a highlight of the night and closed the show
By Steve Sharp
When he wasn't seated and chatting with fans of his record label's
landmark achievements in Chicago blues, Koester was up and out of his
chair shooting video footage of the event, just as he has since he
first arrived in Chicago. Koester has long been known for his passion
as a blues photographer (having shot the cover of Jr. Wells "Hoodoo
Man Blues" album and others), as well as for his love for
cinematography in general.
Koester came away with more beautiful footage Friday night, with James
"Taildragger" Jones relatively fresh from a recent European tour and
animated as always. Lurrie Bell spent much of the night with his
guitar in hand, channeling his deep blues to warm up the capacity
crowd for what was arguably the night's most intense act, Byther
Smith.
Smith is one of Chicago's grittiest and most talented blues guitarists
and singers who can still trace his roots directly to Mississippi.
Smith's ease in performing, and the strength of his playing and
singing, kept the audience riveted. The party was also the occasion
for Johnny B. Moore, who suffered a stroke in recent years, to make
his return to the stage.
Despite being listed on the bill, one of Delmark's most revered
artists, Jimmy Dawkins, did not appear as scheduled for the
celebration due to illness, to the disappointment of many. Due to another engagement
at B.L.U.E.S. on Halsted, Jimmy Johnson performed early, then
departed. Buddy Guy could be seen spending time with patrons of his
bar near the front door, but did not perform. Guy did, however,
begrudgingly pose for a group photo with the Delmark artists, but
curiously denied connection with the label.
Delmark promotions man Kevin Johnson said he was pleased with the way
the event turned out, especially considering the large number of
artists involved.
"The musical artist highlights for me were Jimmy Johnson and Dave
Specter, Eddie Shaw, Tail Dragger, Arthur Duncan," Johnson said. "It
was encouraging to see Johnny B. Moore performing again. Kudos to
Lurrie, Kenny Smith, Stroger, and Mad Hatter for great backing for so
long. Specter did a great job playing and emceeing, as well. And I
think Bob and Sue (Koester) had a good time. Bob was touched with the
mayor's proclamation that March 7 was Delmark Day in Chicago."
Representative of the Grammys, Neil Tesser, presented Guy and Koester
with a Grammy Hall of Fame Award for their contributions to Jr. Wells'
"Hoodoo Man Blues" LP.
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