Rock LinesThanks- Cleveland.com! April 29th, 2012

I want to thank the Editor and staff at Cleveland.com (The Plain Dealer). My recent Rock Lines Blog featuring David Spero, Dick Clark, Rock Hall of Fame and other topics was chosen as their Featured Blog of the Week out of 100's of other postings from various bloggers daily.

I realize there are a few typos and it's not one of my best (in my opinion) blogs, but; I am still thrilled. This is the second time I have had this honor, but a first for The Rock Lines Blog. Previously, my second business blog ever written on Cleveland.com was chosen as Featured Blog of the Week.

Many of the side projects I jumped into in 2011 took away from my writing in both time and creativity.

I wanted to get back to regularly writing blogs and a couple of books. It seemed impossible.

I've suffered from writers block before but this was on a much larger scale. Burnout, disappointment in poor business decisions and my closet friend passing had me in a strange funk.

Prior to writing the Rock Lines Blog that received recognition business topics were jumping through my head. I was able to spend most of last weekend writing. Perseverance had overtaken doubt. Suddenly, I realized I was back to my old form. Excitement, joy and happiness overshadowed me.

Questions remained. Had I lost my readers through meager and untimely posts? Was anybody looking forward to my thoughts? Did anyone care?

Then on Monday, I noticed my Rock Lines Blog was chosen as Featured Blog of the Week. Unbelievable timing! The response from my readers was the largest to date during the history of writing over 200 various blogs in various social media.

I can make a difference and so can you. Persevering is the key. It all starts within each one of us. We never know where life leads us, but after recognizing and enduring setbacks we do become stronger!

Oh, by the way- The best is yet to come!

Until We Meet Again, Jim Carver
Author: The Legacy of David A. Wells-The Lexington High School "Band of Gold"
Something Meaningful that Matters!
www.successthroughmusic.com

Rock Lines: April 21st 2012- Rock Hall, David Spero, Dick Clark and more!

Congrats to David Spero of The Cleveland Rock n'Roll Hall of Fame. Finally having the induction ceremonies held at the Hall of Fame in Cleveland, Ohio had to be a career highlight for Mr. Spero last week.

(Jim Carver(Left) with David Spero- October 2012)

I had the honor of meeting Mr. Spero at the Autism Speaks Benefit Concert at the Rock Hall of Fame last October.

(Photo used courtesy of: David Spero.)

David and Herman Spero on the set of The Upbeat Show.

David started his career at age 13, holding the cue cards during the production of The Upbeat Show. Herman Spero (David's Father) was the producer. The Upbeat Show was aired on Saturdays featuring host, Don Webster on WEWS-TV with a bevy of international, national and local musical talent.

It was common for the local show to tape up to 10 acts per show. In return for appearing on The Upbeat Show acts would be booked to play surrounding local venues in the Cleveland area. Thus earning more financially and gaining exposure with the public.

David went on to becoming a Disc Jockey at WMMS until he became the longtime manager for The Michael Stanley Band. Later, Mr. Spero started his own management group and has managed many legendary touring acts including: The Eagles, Joe Walsh, Richie Furay,The Raspberries, Alice Cooper and Yusuf Islam (formerly known as Cat Stevens).



(Photo used courtesy of: raymaclean)

Dick Clark (82 years old) passed away earlier this week. Mr. Clark was an entire generations host with the weekly TV show- American Bandstand (1956-1989). Mr. Clark was the forever young looking teenager, who gave kid's something exciting to look forward to with new music, live bands and dancing. He helped set American music trends and record charting for artists. Dick was TV's first rock n' roll disc jockey.

Mr. Clark would go on to produce the ABC television shows: "American Bandstand", "Where the Action Is", "Action" and numerous Hollywood game shows as well as "Dick Clark's Rockin' New Years Eve."

In those days a band wasn't considered to have hit the big-time until they performed on American Bandstand. Several Ohio bands did including The Music Explosion, The Ohio Express, The Lemon Pipers, The Outsiders, The All Sports Band and The Michael Stanley Band.



(Photo used courtesy of: Mike Licht, NotionsCapital.com)

(Photo used courtesy of: Michael Gismondi.)

Michael Stanley Band with Dick Clark on American Bandstand November 1983

What was Northeast Ohio's connection with Dick Clark besides sharing some of the same artists that appeared on American Bandstand and The Upbeat Show?

Find out- here!

Levon Helm performing with The Band.

Photo courtesy of: Heinrich Klaffs

(Photo courtesy by The Columbus Dispatch of Levon Helm.)

It was sad to learn of the passing of 71-year old Levon Helm, the drummer/vocalist of The Band. I was aware Levon had been suffering from COPD for many years, however; it was news to me that he was suffering from throat cancer. Levon was a uniquely gifted vocalist who exemplified the term- "The Show Must Go On!"

(Ted Nugent photo used courtesyof: chascar.)

Ted Nugent made the news earlier this week and earned a meeting with Secret Service Agents regarding political hate rants towards President Obama. The common man would have been arrested for one thing or another, but Ted seems to have escaped being charged somehow. I am not a Democrat, however; I feel his remarks aren't serving Mitt Romney's political campaign well or his own career.

Nugent's opening slot for his upcoming tour with Styx and REO Speedwagon is still in the works, but it is safe to say... stay tuned!

Until We Meet Again, Jim Carver
Author: The Legacy of David A. Wells- The Lexington High School "Band of Gold"
Something Meaningful that Matters!
www.successthroughmusic.com

Rock Lines- April 5th 2012
Opening day on April 6^th, 2007 will always be a day I will never forget. The Cleveland Indians home opener was snowed out during the game. Besides a snowstorm complete with whiteouts on this day; I would meet former Journey drummer Steve Smith and hear his excellent jazz/fusion band- Vital Information perform at Nighttown in Cleveland Heights, Ohio .

Upon reaching the bridge on Interstate 71 near Progressive Field the Cleveland Indians game was stopped due to a whiteout condition from the snowstorm. Rush hour in downtown Cleveland and I couldn't view the stadium from the highway. Treacherous conditions indeed!

I exited off the interstate onto Carnegie Avenue and slowly drove down through the mammoth Cleveland Clinic corridor, attempting to follow the Cedar Glenn Parkway and maneuver onto Cedar Road to find my destination.

The quant New-York style supper club that Down Beat magazine named one of the worlds "100 Great Jazz Clubs."was easily found.

I arrived prior to the band that evening at 6 pm. The show began at 8pm. Steve Smith and company arrived through the front entrance and not realizing how approachable Steve was- I asked him to autograph a drum head. He was very generous considering this was the band's first appearance at the club and I am sure he had more important tasks at hand.

Vital Information began the show on time to a packed house. I stood against a wall in an attempt to give the waiters and waitresses room to deliver meals and drinks to the seated guests.

The members of Vital Information are: Tom Coster on keyboards and accordion (Santana/Gabor Szabo)), Vinnie Valentino on guitar (Bill Evans/Jimmy McGriff), Baron Brown (Jean-Luc Ponty /George Benson/Billy Cobham) on bass, with Steve Smith (Journey/Montrose/ Jean-Luc Ponty/Steps Ahead) on drums and percussion.

The band opened their first set with a rousing version of an up-tempo song from one of their previous records .Several of the songs arrangements feature individual solos allowing each band member to shine on their expertise and stretch their own boundaries. Both sets heavily featured tunes from the "Vitalization" CD.

It was easy to see why Steve has been voted the "world's best drummer in Modern Drummer magazine"numerous times. The agility, dexterity, intensity, and complexity of his drumming skills were incredible. Odd time signatures, blazing speed, only brought two words to my mind- Buddy Rich!

I stood perhaps 15 feet away from watching a precision professional drummer display numerous short and extended solos. Mr. Smith also treated us to his version of Max Roach's "Mr. Hi-Hat".

South Indian drumming and konnakol vocals were featured in two of the songs from the Vitalization release. Steve taught us how to clap the beat to tune entitled- "Seven and a Half" written in 15/8 time signature, but counted as 7 1/2. A drum solo in 13/4 time signature was incredible to witness during the performance of "J Ben Jazz". I was in drummer's heaven!

At the conclusion of the show all band members remained on-stage to meet and greet the fans. Steve Smith is one of the most gracious and pleasant personalities to meet. His knowledge of the history of jazz, drumming, and his attitude are truly enlightening.

This would be the first time I chatted with Steve Smith. I would go on to hear him at his drum clinic in Lancaster, Ohio and after the show decided to write my first book. The third time we met I asked Steve if he would consider reviewing my new book. Mr. Smith graciously obliged!

To my knowledge Steve has never endorsed any products other than his own. I am so grateful that he took the time to read my unedited book and gave me such a kind review. The Sonor Drums endorser is one of the classiest musicians in the universe!

Don't miss out on the opportunity to witness this upcoming event:

Vital information- 30^th Anniversary Tour

Monday, June 18th and Tuesday, June 19th
Steve Smith and Vital Information featuring
Baron Browne, Tom Coster & Vinny Valentino
Nighttown
12387 Cedar Road (top of Cedar Hill)
Cleveland Heights, OH 44106
216.759.0550
www.nighttowncleveland.com

Drummers - you don't want to miss this event:

Drum Fantasy Camp

Friday, August 10 - Monday, August 13
Small classes and jams featuring: Keith Carlock, Peter Erskine, Will Kennedy, Steve Smith, and Dave Weckl. Also featuring Baron Browne, Chrissi Poland, and Vinny Valentino.
Hyatt Regency Hotel at the Arcade
420 Superior Avenue East
Cleveland, OH 44114
Various packages and prices. Classes sell out! Register now:
www.drumfantasycamp.com

Until We Meet Again, Jim Carver
 Author: The Legacy of David A. Wells-The Lexington High School "Band of Gold"
Something Meaningful that Matters!
www.successthroughmusic.com

Rock Lines- March 9th, 2012

-Photo by: RobBixbyPhotography

I was saddened to learn of the passing of former Monkee- Davy Jones on February 29^th. As a kid, I look forward to watching the weekly television show and hearing a brand new song every week. The various songwriters for the group wrote hit after hit.

Davy was my favorite member of The Monkees. His voice, accent, good looks and ability to win-over the girls displayed heavily in the series. The music accompanied to zany skits was MTV before it's time.

Reality sets in when you lose someone who seemed "forever young".

This week we have the passing of guitarist Ronnie Montrose. The former leader of the band- Montrose (with Sammy Hagar) was suffering from Prostrate Cancer. Ronnie's guitar licks and the rockin' songs of Montrose received lots of heavy promotion from Warner Brother's Records back in the mid-1970's. Unfortunately the band had a somewhat short –lived career. Ronnie Montrose ended up as a solo act and later assembled another band named Gamma. His guitar instrumental of "Town without Pity" is a wonderful rendition of a classic piece of music!



Ronnie was scheduled to perform in Cleveland, Ohio in May.

Former Deep Purple keyboard wizard- Jon Lord is undergoing Pancreatic Cancer treatment in Israel. The disease is believed to have been diagnosed in the early stages. The treatment Jon is receiving appears to have been successful and the cancer cells have gone into remission. Deep Purple is hoping for Jon's healthy return sometime later this year. My thoughts and prayers go out to Jon Lord!

Velvet Voyage

Congrats to the Cleveland, Ohio based jazz/fusion band- Velvet Voyage for their recent appearance at the NAMM convention in Anaheim, California in January. Velvet Voyage appears every Monday evening, beginning at 8:00 p.m. at The Brothers Lounge in downtown Cleveland.

Don't miss this fantastic original jazz/fusion band- Velvet Voyage and order their debut CD "Velvet Voyage" here. Look for an in-depth article in the coming months covering the band Velvet Voyage!

Until We Meet Again, Jim Carver
Author: The Legacy of David A. Wells-The Lexington High School "Band of Gold"
Something Meaningful that Matters!
www.successthroughmusic.com

A Public Thank You to My Friends!

I would like to publicly thank the many friends who supported me during the recent passing of my closest friend- Billy Atkins.

I want to thank my current band- Street Foxx for cancelling two rehearsals and allowing me the time to grieve and reflect on the passing. I couldn’t be more fortunate than to be working with a classier bunch of guys!

I want to publicly thank my boss- Andrew Fournier, for allowing me all the time I needed away from work, to take care of business, despite our busy schedules. I will never forget your act of kindness and thoughtfulness!   

I want to thank Dawn Kamen (Billy’s daughter) for asking me to prepare the music program for his funeral service. You helped me by keeping my mind on what was important in our lives together with Billy. I was honored to represent and share an important role in his life. For that, I am eternally grateful!

I want to thank Jane Carver for allowing me to spend nearly an entire weekend and several weeknights writing and preparing music or blogs until odd hours of the early morning. Your understanding and support was fantastic and I couldn’t ask for a better companion! 

Finally, a thank you to all my friends, former classmates, Facebook friends and total strangers-the support and kind words were heartfelt and inspiring.

Until We Meet Again,
 Jim Carver Author: The Legacy of David A. Wells-The Lexington High School “Band of Gold”
Something Meaningful that Matters!
www.successthroughmusic.com

Rock Lines: A Musical Tribute and Memorial to Billy Atkins

I often write about “something meaningful that matters” in many of my blogs.  My hope is to inspire people and perhaps make a positive difference in their lives. In today’s fast paced world, we often fail to take the proper time to reflect on the special people in our lives and how much they mean to us.  Unfortunately, sometimes it takes a tragic event for us to realize how truly blessed we are.

Note: This is the updated blog which includes links to song s Bill Atkins performed, listened to often and loved. Many of these songs were taken from the musical tribute at Billy’s funeral service.

 I was honored to have been asked to arrange the music at Mr. Atkins funeral memorial. I have added other songs which may not have been appropriate for the funeral service or dropped due to time constraints.

This is only a minute segment of his taste and love for good music. Please click on any RED link - to hear and see a small part of his spirited life.

A week ago, I learned of the sudden passing of my best friend- Billy Atkins. Our bond lasted 40 years. His legacy will last much longer!

Billy’s older brother Donald “Tudor” Atkins was the guitarist for The Music Explosion. Bill was very proud of Tudor’s musical accomplishments. The Music Explosion had a top 10-hit with “Little Bit O’ Soul” in 1967.

We attended school together in Lexington, Ohio and became friends.

I attended my first rock concert with Billy and Trent Edgerton. William drove us down to the French Field House on the campus of The Ohio State University to hear Spooky Tooth, Fleetwood Mac, and the headliners- Uriah Heep. We would see Uriah Heep perform many times during our friendship.

 In 1971, William joined a band called “Avery”. The hard rockin’ quartet consisted of Kirk Luther on (Hammond B3 organ), Steve Haverfield (drums), Stan Diener (guitar) and Billy Atkins playing his Hoffner “Beatle” bass guitar.

The band played locally at WJ’s Club on Walker Lake Road (fantastic club) and The Hide-Away located on North Main Street in downtown Mansfield, Ohio (Jimmy Papas ran the establishment). Surprisingly Avery were respected enough to play at Fergies BlueNote and another all-black bar located on the square of Mansfield, Ohio.

The band performed songs by hard rock bands such as:  Black Sabbath, Bloodrock, Cactus, Deep Purple,  Jo Jo Gunne, Led Zeppelin, Spirit  and Uriah Heep.  Avery played several original catchy tunes which were co-written by Billy Atkins.

In 1972, Avery competed in two different “Battle of the Bands Contests” held in Columbus, Ohio on the same day. Avery won both events.

 I can still visualize Billy performing “Gypsy” by Uriah Heep with his bass guitar- above his head, behind his neck and behind his back (backwards). People were amazed at his showmanship. I was stunned- he was only 15 years old!

Following the breakup of Avery, William joined Don Brody, violin virtuoso- Brad Oviatt and the talented Craig “Haskell” Gandert on harp (harmonica) for a bluegrass project. By this time, besides being talented on acoustic guitar, Bill had picked-up the mandolin. The band played many fast-paced Bluegrass numbers with relative ease.

In the mid-1970’s, Country/Rock music was taking off. Mr. Atkins was already inspired by artists such as: The Byrds, Poco, The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, The Eagles, and Jackson Browne. California was the “melting pot” for Country/Rock. So, he loaded up his Volkswagen Beetle and headed to California! His friends missed him dearly.

A couple of years passed with Billy living in San Diego, California and finally we heard the good news. Strike up the band-Billy was coming home!

Attending concerts  and clubs with musical entertainment played a prominent role in our lives together.

On Saturday evenings, Billy and several of us would travel to Cleveland, Ohio, book rooms at The Holiday Inn on Lakeside Avenue, take a taxi cab to 1730 East 24^th Street and catch the Cleveland based band- Souvenir at The Cleveland Agora.

Those were legendary nights of friends and music at the “old” Cleveland Agora.

Billy always had a soft spot in his heart for bands from Ohio. Glass Harp featuring Phil Keaggy on guitar was one of his early favorite bands. Breathless, The James Gang, The Michael Stanley Band, Owen B, The Raspberries and Pure Prairie League often graced his turntable and he attended their concerts when possible.

His small bedroom at his Mom’s home was fittingly setup using his own PA system for speakers. Quite powerful, their presence let you immediately know how serious he took his music!

Anytime I would call Billy and discuss bad news, he would ask me over to his house and before I knew it (after listening to me vent) he would slap a record on his turntable or pickup his acoustic guitar and sing a song too uplift my spirits. Before you knew it, he had you smiling and your problems were forgotten.

Just like the lyrics of one of his favorite songs by The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band “Bayou Jubilee”-Billy could make you “forget about your troubles with a party and a song.”

Helping family and friends was something William always found the time for. He never put himself above the needs of others.

Whether it was an all-night chat while driving around in his Volkswagen, a job, a hot meal, a place to stay, or just getting together-Billy was always there.

I never once heard him complain or regress. Somehow, he understood a role that was one of his greatest assets.

His smile, the twinkling of his eyes and upbeat spirit always made us feel special.

Billy probably saved my life and the lives of others many nights, driving me around chatting until I was sober enough to make it home. He would have gladly driven me home, but I’d rather spend those nights in his company.

Strangely, he shared the same idea of my next book on the subject of Ohio Rock History. Without him knowing, I was already planning this adventure. He would have played a major role in providing me information throughout the 1960’s and 1970’s.

The upcoming book will be dedicated to William Atkins. Music played an important role in his life.

I always wanted to put a band together with Billy. We discussed this a month ago. I had just joined Street Foxx. He shared the same thought and he assured me it would come about down the road.

Knowing Billy, he already has a band waiting in Heaven. They are probably making a “joyful noise” consisting of a fog machine, blasting PA system, the swirling sound of a Hammond B3, soaring guitar riffs and a bass player in vibrant perfect health- grinning from ear to ear.

Billy,

I loved you like a brother. You were my closest friend for 40 years.

I could never repay what you given me.

I will spend each day “paying forward” your message of hope!

May God Bless You and hold you in the palm of His hand.

Your spirit is free.

To have known you was a blessing.

To walk beside you was a gift!

Until We Meet Again,
 Jim Carver Author: The Legacy of David A. Wells-The Lexington High School “Band of Gold”
Something Meaningful that Matters!
www.successthroughmusic.com