James deserves a lot of credit for tackling sacred tunes. One has the sense that while part of the reason is to share his interpretations of these beloved songs, another reason is to send fans back to the originals.

“I’ve hit a lot of their licks on my guitar over the years, especially Lightnin’ Hopkins,” White said. “But I sung it the way I felt. Just my voice, harmonica and an old guitar. I feel real good on it.”

Through extensive research and interviews, ‘Shake Your Hips: The Excello Records Story’ chronicles the tale of one of the most unusual labels to emerge from the 1950s. Shedding new light on Nashville’s rich history as much more than a country-music town.

Frank Bey is a soul man, in the truest sense of the word. Singing since a small child, Bey has spent nearly 70 years perfecting his craft. There have been highlights to his career, but he has had more than his share of obstacles as well.

Although his parents were against him playing guitar, Akapo immersed himself into the origins of the blues and never looked back.

“Mule” stands out as consummate Townsend. Omnivore Recordings’ inclusion of the eight previously unissued tracks is a gift to the entire blues loving world.

His friendship with Levon Helm led to an introduction to Leon Russell, who got Davis into session work. He joined Taj Mahal around that same time, playing guitar and piano on Mahal’s first three albums and co-writing some of the songs.

“Your Mama Wants To Do Me (And Your Daddy Wants To Do Me In)” is a rocking good time. The kind of song that keeps Anthony Gomes fans packing venues wherever he plays.

The house band will be led by Conan O’Brien musical director Jimmy Vivino. A stellar lineup of blues, Americana and roots rock artists will take to the stage including John Prine, Bob Weir, Lucinda Williams, Lee Ann Womack, Joe Louis Walker, Shemekia Copeland, Slash and many more.

“‘Head Held High’ is a song I wrote that is close to literally true,” Margolin shared.