ALBUMS: HATTIESBURG BLUES
BUY CD – U.S. BUY CD – INTERNATIONAL ITUNES AMAZON
HATTIESBURG BLUES is our second album for Delmark Records, and our 8th CD overall. From the beginning of our negotiations with Delmark in early 2005, Bob Koester Sr., the labels’ owner, first wanted a live CD/DVD from us, as he likes capturing blues and jazz bands in clubs “live-as-it-happens”. We did just that on July 19th of that year with surprising success. Indeed, ONE EYE OPEN: LIVE AT ROSA’S LOUNGE, CHICAGO (DE583, DVD 1783) climbed to number 6 on the national US charts as reported by Living Blues Magazine (January-February 2006). Fans and friends alike continue to say that this success is due to our tight performance that evening and to how pristine and good the sound and the mixing are. Following this success, we decided to continue our association and record a studio album for the Chicago label. (2008)
1. TIGER MAN
2. CHICAGO IS MY HOME
3. FORGOT YOU HAD A HOME
4. HOW MUCH WORSE CAN IT BE?
5. SOFT-HEARTED WOMAN
6. HATTIESBURG BLUES
7. GONE SO LONG
8. LIGHT FROM WITHIN
9. CALYPSO IN BLUE
10. HELL AND BACK
11. SAY SOMETHING GOOD
12. FOOLISH MAN
13. NATURE IS CRYIN’ (Dedicated to AL GORE)
ABOUT THIS RECORDING
In my experience as a band leader, I have never gone through a recording session without witnessing or experiencing some drama. Whether it is dealing with someone forgetting the time of a recording session, asking for extra money in the middle of a song, or a guest singer coming with allergies so severe that the vocals were unusable (while having the gall to ask to get paid anyways!). No drama was spared on this session as well.
To wit: on the morning of the first day of recording (September 10th, 2007), harried, I trimmed my moustache to take away unwanted hair that might interfere with my harp playing (a potential nuisance for a bearded harmonica player!). In my haste I cut my upper lip with the scissors. Blood gushed, and I was unable to stop the bleeding for about an hour. Thank God it didn’t hinder my harp playing during the recording as the cut was located away from my lips’ playing range in spite of blood stains regularly showing up on my harps.
Here are two other examples: again on the first day of recording, about the third song into the session, Carl Weathersby injured his right thumb. As with Lurrie Bell, Carl’s wonderful tone is achieved with this thumb, and not with a guitar pick. The injury was so serious that he had to leave the recording room to attend to his wound. Trooper that he is, as soon as he could find a way to bandage his injured thumb, he came back to the room and finished the two days of recording with the same gusto and focus as ever. He now has a new nickname among us: “The Thumb”, as he played his lead and rhythm guitar with … a bandaged thumb! Finally, to top it all of, on that day as well, Giles Corey was battling stomach flu and had to sit down to play!
After last-minute reshuffling of schedules to accommodate some guest musicians and/or band members, we were ready to forge ahead. Everyone came to Delmark’s Riverside Studios with a positive attitude. The recording unfolded amazingly well. We had done rehearsals on the road, at my brother’s Hyde Park home, and at Delmark’s Riverside Studios. These rehearsals paid up big dividends.
We recorded six tunes on the first day. This is an unusually high numbers of songs as it takes hours to set up and level everyone’s amplifiers, microphones and drums, before tackling the first tune. You quickly tend to become drained with the amount of time and concentration involved in preparing for the recording process.
From the first songs on, we knew we were involved in a special project. The rhythm section of Kenny, Steve and/or Spurling were locking in tight, Hambone did his keyboards wizardry to add unique flavoring touches to the tunes (check his work on “Calypso In Blue” and “How Much Worse Can It Be?”, for example), while Giles and Carl worked harmoniously together, leaving ample creative room for each other to do their guitar work. Finally, Inetta dived right into the songs and delivered her best on each tune. As for me, I always pay attention to what I play or don’t play as a harp player. Like my collaborators here, I tried to blend into the whole as part of a well-woven fabric.
*****
On this recording I have added a Latin and a bit of a Gospel flavor, and I am thrilled they turned up as well as they did. Gospel is naturally inspiring to me. It easily can bring tears in my eyes. The music, lyrics, and vocal harmonies are so uplifting to me. Yet, as odd as it may sound, the “cry” so movingly expressed in blues music, moves me as profoundly as the Gospel “celebration” response. Go figure. I have always enjoyed the full range of emotions expressed by the music of African heritage as it developed through many different cultures in South America, the Caribbean Islands, and North America.
As far as the Latin dimension on this CD, they reveal my love for my wife Vickie and for her side of the family. From the time I first met my Cubanita about thirty years ago, she introduced me to a Latin musical world I would have never had the privilege of knowing and appreciating. Besides this obvious emotional ties to Latin music, I am also the lucky godfather to three beautiful children who are either born to Cuban parents (Alina , 23 years old; and Jasmin, 2 years old), or born with at least one Cuban parent (Nicolas, 7 years old). Adding to this list our many Latin friends, these songs add even more sentimental value.
CAST OF CHARACTERS
Inetta Visor has been with MISSISSIPPI HEAT since 2002. That was the year we recorded FOOTPRINTS ON THE CEILING (released by CrossCut Records, and which received “Best Blues CD of the Year” and “Best Blues Production of the Year” by REAL BLUES MAGAZINE). This success was, in part, due to her stunning performance on it. As you shall hear on HATTIESBURG BLUES, she is one of those artists who keep on improving as she performs and records! By know, we have traveled the world over, from Mexico to France and Canada, for instance, and she never ceases to amaze me. Her stage presence and beautiful voice mesmerize our fans. They adore her, both as a person and as an entertainer. Inetta has a deceptive look about her: unassuming, humble and easy to get along with. She is indeed all of that, thank God, but don’t let that fool you. She is as ambitious and as determined to succeed as any singer I have ever met. It is rare to meet a vocalist that is so talented and yet down to earth at the same time. On this recording, Inetta wrote the beautiful lyrics to “Light From Within”.
With the exception to our 2005 ONE EYE OPEN-LIVE AT ROSA’S LOUNGE (a CD/DVD project for Delmark Records) where we highlighted Lurrie Bell’s genius, Carl Weathersby appears on all our recordings since HANDYMAN (CrossCut Records, 1998). That is, we now have recorded four CDs together in that 10 years span. The same can be said also with my drummer Kenny Smith, who has been playing and recording with me since 1997. Carl and Kenny are the oldest members of the MISSISSIPPI HEAT’s family, and actively contribute to our band’s unique sound.
I first met Carl in the early 1990’s when I was on tour with the HEAT in Belgium (my country of origin). My family had relocated to Chicago in 1969, and I enjoyed returning to Belgium as often as music would allow me. At that time, Carl was working with Billy Branch and the Sons of Blues. I was introduced to him by my then singer Deitra Farr. I liked him right away and kept a friendship that has grown well beyond the stage. As with Lurrie, I invite him as often as possible to festivals and trips overseas. Carl traveled two weeks with us in France (Paris and Avignon) in November 2006, for instance. He continues to be a steady member of our recording cast. Whatever his contribution, we know it will be tasty and, above all, soulful. He is also one of my favorite singers.
Kenny Smith is the son of Muddy waters’ long-time drummer Willie “Big Eyes” Smith. He has played drums since the age of 5! Today, at the tender age of 34, Kenny is among the best blues drummer alive. He always gives his all, and his commitment to the band is steadfast. I feel it when we play, but also off the bandstand. He is one of the few musicians I know who understands my musical style. I have a unique sense of timing, for instance, which can throw off some players (just watch my legs when I play). NEVER with Kenny. With him backing me up, I can venture and create. He is family to me. “The only way you’ll ever get rid of me”, he told me recently “is if you fire me. Otherwise I am playing with you until you retire”!
Guitar wizard Lurrie Bell and MISSISSIPPI HEAT also go back many years. He often would show up at our gigs with … a harmonica in his hand. Few people know that he loves the harp. He plays it well enough to carry a couple of tunes, and has the legendary Carey Bell’s tone and style. Whenever we travel, and at the wee hours of the day, he can be heard in his hotel room practicing his harp. For hours on end! We also often jam in the van on the way to a gig. His schedule permitting, Lurrie is present at many of our shows. He is a gentle, humble man, who plays with uncanny inspiration, tone and feeling. Lurrie is always ON. A genius. Here he plays and sings on two tunes: “Chicago Is My Home”, and “Gone So Long”.
Giles Corey joined Mississippi Heat in 2006. Giles played guitar with quite a variety of well-known blues legends, from Otis Rush and Otis Clay to Billy Branch. He is as passionate a guitar player and singer as anyone I have ever known. A team player, always on, he adds whatever musical touch is necessary to make the band sound good. That is true not only of this recording (listen for instance to “Calypso in Blue”, “Hattiesburg Blues” or “Say Something Good”) but with our live performances as well. Beneath Giles’ reserved and introverted appearance lies a witty and immensely likeable person. He always seems to know what is needed; not more, not less. A rare quality for a lead guitarist…
Spurling Banks is one of the two bass players used on this recording. He played with the HEAT from about 2002 until last December 2007, when we decided to part ways amicably. He is an awesome musician, as comfortable with Gospel, R&B, Jazz Fusion, Funk, as he is with Blues.
On HATTIESBURG BLUES, the other bass player, and new MISSISSIPPI HEAT member, is Stephen Howard. Steve is a former band alumnus (late 1990’s to 2002). He is one of the best in-the-pocket players I know. He works so well with Kenny.
On keyboards you will find Chris “Hambone” Cameron. As with our GLAD YOU’RE MINE CD (CrossCut Records, 2005), I have prepared many of my tunes with Hambone (some with Giles Corey and Chris Winters as well). Hambone has a small recording studio in his basement. He also records piano and B3 on the tunes I bring for eventual band rehearsals. This process of putting songs together is tedious, and his patience and creative generosity makes our work all the more rewarding. Among the greats Hambone has played and/or recorded with are John Mayall, Etta James, Chuck Berry, Bo Diddley, James Brown, Howard Levy (Chevere), Big Twist & the Mellow Fellows, and Sonia Dada. Hambone is a musician’s musician. His musical knowledge is uncanny. He has a “third ear” for tunes. He knows what to add (check his Manteno licks on “How Much Worse Can It Be?”), and what not to play. He always listens. As he helped me with lyrics and/or some musical arrangements, he appears here as a well-deserved co-author on “Hell & Back”.
When Hambone heard I was looking for a Latin percussionist for some tunes, he directed me to Ruben Alvarez. He and Ruben are current band members of CHEVERE, lead by harmonica extraordinaire, Howard Levy. Hambone and Ruben also know each other from the John Mayall Band days, with whom they worked together in the 1970’s. Ruben did a superb job on four cuts.
When I was looking for a male guest singer for “Foolish Man”, Chris “Hambone” Cameron recommended one name, and one name only: Devin Thompson. They had collaborated on previous recording projects, and Hambone had nothing but great things to say about his singing abilities. I can now hear why! Devin holds the lead vocals chair with the Chicago-based group, The Chicago Catz. Born in Joliet, Illinois, he grew up in a family steeped in gospel, R&B, blues and jazz. He has recorded numerous jingles (it is also Hambone’s main livelihood, though now-a-days the present economy makes it difficult to survive solely on that), and can be heard (with Hambone) on the Walt Disney soundtrack movies “Holes” and “The Guardian”. Devin is an affable, professional man. He delivers passionate vocals on “Foolish Man”.
Finally, I have not felt so much thrill listening to horns as I have to those on HATTIESBURG BLUES. Indeed I have not heard horns arrangements like these in a long, long time. The Chicago Horns, here led by Kenny Anderson on Trumpet (who did the arrangements), are on the money. Their Latin flavoring and harmonizing up and down the scale while celebrating the band’s work, all testifies to Kenny Anderson’s genius.
*****
It is a humbling experience to be surrounded by the musicians on this recording session. I know being inspired by them, and others whom I worked with before them, is one of the key factors to Mississippi Heat’s success. I am blessed to have such musicians as either part of my regular band or as part of an extended MISSISSIPPI HEAT family. Though not on this record this particular time, this extended family also includes Danny Draher (who played with Etta James, Dr. John, Wilson Pickett, Paul Butterfield among other luminaries) who replaces Giles Corey when he isn’t available; as well as former band member Chris Winters who still occasionally performs with us.
HATTIESBURG BLUES is our best recording to date. Delmark Records is a company that showed me the respect and support any artist would wish for. And more. Hard to beat. Additionally, the fact that this label has such a long list of world famous blues recording alumni deepens my thrill at being on their roster. Indeed, many of my heroes like Junior Wells, Buddy Guy, Carey and Lurrie Bell, Dinah Washington, Roosevelt Sykes, Otis Rush, Sunnyland Slim, Magic Sam, among many others, have recorded for that famed label. I hope you will enjoy listening to our new project as much as we did recording it.
Peace and Love,
Pierre
RADIO CHARTS: This album reached #1 on XM-Radio (US Satellite]. HATTIESBURG BLUES reached #5 spot for two consecutive months on the national blues radio charts. It also ranked within the top 10 best blues recordings for three months in a row (as reported by LIVING BLUES MAGAZINE).
“This is one of the most distinctive Chicago blues bands around today. HATTIESBURG BLUES is sure to be a contender for contemporary blues album of the year.”
–LIVING BLUES MAGAZINE
“HATTIESBURG BLUES is caressing to the ear! … A little gem [and] a seamless tapestry of passionate blues music. … Lacocque’s harp work is stunning.”
–CONTEMPORARY BLUES/ABOUT.COM
“HATTIESBURG BLUES is the most exciting blues album of the year so far… [It] is a triumphant fusion of urban blues, southern soul and Latin and African rhythms.”
–Pop Matters
“This album is a winner!”
–Illinois Blues/BLUES BLAST
“SUPERB!”
–LA HORA DEL BLUES/SPAIN
“One of the best CD this year.”
–MIDNIGHT FLYER BLUES.COM
“Great CD that really cooks. I think this is Mississippi Heat’s best release to date! ”
–JUZ BLOOZ/ AUSTRALIA
“Pierre is a harmonica genius. His skills and heartfelt music are just outstanding. …Mississippi Heat has created another great hit”.
–CROSSROADS BLUES SOCIETY
“Guest guitarists Lurrie Bell and Carl Weathersby add Chicago fire when needed, and the result is sophisticated grit. … The consistently best vocals throughout belong to Visor. … This razor cuts before you can feel it.”
–PITTSBURGH POST GAZETTE/BLUE NOTES
“WOW! … This has to be the Heat’s finest.”
-KEEPIN’ IT BLUE
“One person who does a lot to help Lacocque give this release much of its big city appeal is Inetta Visor. Lacocque features the big-voiced singer prominently; she is a major asset…”
–ALL MUSIC GUIDE/ALEX HENDERSON
“HATTIESBURG BLUES is a mindblower. … It is the best CD you have made.”
–WGLT RADIO/DELTA FRANK BLACK
“Just opened the package yesterday and listened in my car driving around – It’s AMAZING!”
–ULTIMATE BLUES/HOLLY HARRIS
“Throughout, Lacocque’s prowess on the harmonica is well to the fore. He has a masterful tone, whether playing in traditional Chicago style or in a melodic, horn style. … Mississippi Heat is going from strength to strength.”
–BLUES NEWS/NEW ZEALAND
“Great album! … Inetta’s vocals are getting better and better with every album she sings on, and Pierre’s harp is up there with the masters. There may be guys as good as him on harmonica but I don’t think we can find anybody better. … My audience liked those Latino-style songs very much. Their CD is fantastic. I was a bit afraid when I read about those Latino-style songs but after hearing them I can say that they really work! They bring additional colors to MH’s music and mix so well with their unique approach to Chicago blues.”
–www.blues.pl /BLUES DJ IN POLAND
“With HATTIESBURG BLUES, Mississippi Heat has delivered its biggest, brassiest and best album to date.”
–BOBJEBLUES.COM/BELGIUM
“Inetta Visor is again the prominent lead vocalist, as she has been for seven years now. Check out her powerful take on the Santana-ish “How Much Worse Can It Be?” and again on the title cut … Throughout the set, we are treated to the guitar stylings of Giles Corey and the keyboard wizardry of Chris Cameron, which meld perfectly behind Pierre’s spirited harp leads. … The inimitable Lurrie Bell also comes on strong with two cuts, the ultra-swingin’ “Gone So Long,” and, one of our two favorites, a cool new Windy City anthem “Chicago Is My Home, no matter which way the wind blows!” … With HATTIESBURG BLUES, Pierre Lacocque has shown fans how blues uses rhythms associated with other cultures yet still conveys a universal message that all blues lovers can appreciate!! This one is highly recommended, folks!!!”
–BLUES BLAST
“While I suppose there’s nothing all that unique about incorporating Latin rhythms into the blues [as HATTIESBURG BLUES does on a few cuts], it’s the manner in which Lacocque does it on [such song as] ‘Calypso In Blue’ that caught my attention. Instead of it being the usual sort of shot-gun marriage you are liable to hear where the addition of a salsa beat is sufficient to call a song Latin, what distinguishes “Calypso” is the subtlety of the flavoring. How many other harmonica players do you know out there that can make their instrument sound like steel drums? … Inetta Visor, the group’s lead vocalist, is a captivating singer in her own right, and [has a] lovely gospel/blues voice. … Pierre Lacocque brings a perspective to the music that allows him to cherish the traditions of those who came before him, while having the vision to see how he can build on it. Mississippi Heat’s HATTIESBURG BLUES is a great example of just how good a job he and his band are doing in fulfilling that vision.”
–BLOGCRITICS.ORG/RICHARD MARCUS
“One person who does a lot to help Lacocque give this release much of its big city appeal is Inetta Visor. Lacocque features the big-voiced singer prominently; she is a major asset on the feel-good opener “Tiger Man” but is equally successful on moody, dusky minor-key offerings such as “How Much Worse Can It Be?,” “Light from Within” and “Forgot You Had a Home.” A minor-key approach has a way of adding considerable moodiness to a blues performance, and it often works well for Lacocque and his allies on Hattiesburg Blues — which is yet another demonstration of their ability to provide solid albums that emphasize electric Chicago blues and occasionally detour into old-school soul.”
–ALL MUSIC GUIDE
“Pierre Lacocque et ses ouailles savent comment prendre le public. Rythmique souple, sobres riffs de guitare avec solo maitrisé, et l’harmonica du leader, soliste permanent, avec sa marque de fabrique sous forme de solos dans les aigus, enchainements mélodiques de notes bien séparées … avant de placer des effets classique en fin de phrase. Tout le disque baigne dans cette qualité supérieure. Le tout étant emballé dans tous ces Chicago blues que Pierre Lacocque semble capable de composer à la pelle. … Les Chicago Horns ponctuent superbement une poignée de titres, la production est superbe et les rythmes judicieusement mélangés. Un disque qui peut s’acheter les yeux fermés.”
–SOUL BAG – 4 ETOILES
“Pierre Lacocque continue avec la même énergie et le même enthousiasme à produire le “must” du blues de Chicago et ses dérivés. Mississippi Heat mérite bien son nom, car la chaleur que dégage cette formation est une fois de plus enivrante. Avec son leader Pierre Lacocque , c’est toujours du travail réjouissant qui est offert. Son jeu d’harmonica possède les vibrations attendues. Le guitariste Carl Weathersby, fidèle au poste, nous gratifie d’un bel ouvrage à la fois au chant et à la guitare sur un blues Chicago “Hell and Back”. Lurrie Bell la deuxième fine lame de la guitare intervient tout en finesse dans le merveilleux “Chicago Is My Home”. Le troisième guitariste Giles Corey est une découverte intéressante. Il apporte son concours et son coup de patte sur des tempos latinos “How Much Worse Can It Be” et “Calypso In Blue”. Avec ces trois musiciens, le leader de Mississippi Heat peut se sentir rassurer. La note féminine sera revendiquée une nouvelle fois par Inetta Visor qui signe au passage avec le concours de Pierre Lacocque “Light From Within’”. Elle devient une titulaire affirmée depuis le départ de Zora Young, Katherine Davis et Deitra Farr qui ont laissé leur empreinte au sein de la formation. Parmi les invités Devin Thompson se donne à fond de sa voix “soul-blues” sur le déchirant “foolish man”. Pour consolider le tout, les Chicago Horns avec le trompettiste Kenny Anderson bétonnent et confortent la chaleur du Mississippi Heat sur certains titres. Encore un disque que l’on gardera jalousement sans le prêter à ses amis de peur qu’ils ne le rendent jamais. Le label Delmark a fait le bon choix en invitant dans ses studios pour la deuxième fois Pierre Lacocque et son Mississippi Heat, car c’est une valeur sure.”
–BLUES AND CO – 4 étoiles
“Purs instants de bonheur”.
–PEPPERMINT BLUES – ST JEAN DU PIN [France]
TIGER MAN
Pierre Lacocque, Ransart Music, BMI
1. MY GOOD MAN
IS FINE AND SEXY
HE LOVES TO GET IT ON
ALWAYS AMAZES ME
HE IS ON STANDBY
AT MY BECK AND CALL
HE’S QUICK ON THE TRIGGER … STOP:
READY TO HAVE A BALL
HE’S MY TIGER MAN
I DON’T CARE IF HIS LOVIN’ KILLS ME
YES HE’S MY SWEET PAPA DADDY
MY SWEETHEART AND MY KING BEE
2. WHEN HE COMES HOME FROM WORK
FEW WORDS WILL DO
AT THE BLINK OF AN EYE
WE’RE DOING THE COOTCHIE COO
BY THE TIME WE ARE THROUGH
MY BRA IS IN THE SINK
MY NYLONS’ ARE TORN UP … STOP:
AND MY CHEEKS ARE REDDISH PINK
HE’S MY TIGER MAN
AND I DON’T CARE IF HIS LOVIN’ KILLS ME
BRIDGE:
3. MY FOXY GUY
HE KEEPS ME YOUNG AND SMILIN’
HE’S SENSUOUS, GIRLS
HANDSOME AND EXCITING
MORE, MORE, MORE
IS WHAT I YELL AND ASK
HE’S MY LOVE MACHINE
READY FOR THE TASK
4. WHEN OUR BUSINESS IS DONE
WE LAY SPEECHLESS IN BED
OUR MINDS CAN’T THINK
‘CAUSE WE’RE HALFWAY DEAD
WE’RE SWEATY AND WASTED
OUR BREATHING IS IN SYNCH
WE ENJOY IT SO MUCH … STOP:
WE NEVER NEED A DRINK
IV: HE’S MY TIGER MAN
I DON’T CARE IF HIS LOVIN’ KILLS ME
5. SOLO: PIERRE
6. REPEAT VERSE 3: BRIDGE:
7. REPEAT VERSE # 4:
WHEN OUR BUSINESS IS DONE
WE LAY SPEECHLESS IN BED
CHICAGO IS MY HOME
Pierre Lacocque, Ransart Music, BMI
LURRIE BELL: LEAD GUITAR
1. CHICAGO IS MY HOME
AND I DON’T CARE WHERE THE WEATHER GOES
YES, CHICAGO IS MY HOME
AND I DON’T CARE WHERE THE WEATHER GOES
I LOVE THIS CITY
ANY WHICH WAYS THE WIND BLOWS
2. MY FAMILY LIVES HERE
IT’S WHERE I PLAY THE BLUES
MONEY DON’T COME EASY
BUT I KNOW I’M PAYING MY DUES
CHICAGO IS MY HOME … / …
3. WINTERS ARE COLD [2 HITS]
SUMMERS GET HOT [2 HITS]
WHATEVER THE CLIMATE
I CAN DEAL WITH WHAT I’VE GOT
YEAH CHICAGO IS MY HOME … / …
4. GUITAR + HARP SOLOS
5. I LOVE TO TRAVEL
AND PLAY EVERYWHERE
BUT WHEN I COME HOME
IT’S A THRILL I CAN’T COMPARE
CHICAGO IS MY HOME … / …
6. REPEAT VERSE # 2:
MY FAMILY LIVES HERE …
7. GUITAR SOLOS: LURRIE BELL
BREAK:
YES I LOVE THIS CITY [STOP]:
ANY WHICH WAYS THE WIND BLOWS
FORGOT YOU HAD A HOME
Pierre Lacocque, Ransart Music, BMI
GILES COREY: LEAD GUITAR
1. I TRIED TO CHANGE YOU
YOU PAID ME NO MIND
YOU CHOOSE YOUR JOB
OVER FAMILY TIME
YOU FORGOT YOU HAD A HOME
ALL YOU’VE GOT IS A ONE TRACK MIND
2. SINCE YOU TOOK THAT JOB
6 YEARS AGO
YOU’VE BEEN TIRED BABY
AND ON THE GO
YOU FORGOT YOU HAD A HOME
NOW OUR LOVE HAS LOST ITS GLOW
BRIDGE:
3. I’M TIRED OF WAITING AROUND
LIVING WITH ALL THIS STRESS
YOU’RE WORKIN’ TOO HARD BABY
YOU MUST CONFESS
I’M GOIN’ SOUTH – I’M TAKIN’ THE KIDS
YES I AM LEAVIN’ YOU
‘CAUSE YOU’RE SO DAMN HOPELESS
4. I’M DITCHIN’ YOU
YOU CAN KEEP THAT RING
YOU ARE GONE ALL DAY
OUR LOVE’S NO LONGER WORKING
YOU FORGOT YOU HAD A HOME
YOU DON’T DESERVE MY SWEET LOVING
5. SOLOS: PIERRE + GILES COREY
BRIDGE:
6. REPEAT VERSE #3:
I’M TIRED OF WAITING AROUND
AND LIVING WITH THIS STRESS
7. REPEAT VERSE #4:
I’M DITCHIN’ YOU –
YOU CAN KEEP THAT RING
HOW MUCH WORSE CAN IT BE?
Pierre Lacocque, Ransart Music, BMI
GILES COREY: LEAD GUITAR
1. I’M HUSTLIN’ AND I’M BUSTLIN’
TRYIN’ TO MAKE ENDS MEET
I’M SO DARN BUSY YOU ALL
HARD TO STAY ON MY FEET
I HOPE THAT SOMEDAY
THE SUN WILL SHINE ON ME
I AM TIRED OF SWEATING AND OF SLAVIN’
HOW MUCH WORSE CAN IT BE?
2. WHEN THINGS GO WRONG
I TAKE ALL THE HITS
I GOT NO ONE TO LEAN ON
IT DON’T HELP TO HAVE A FIT
I HOPE THAT SOMEDAY …/…
BRIDGE:
.3. NO ONE UNDERSTANDS
WHAT I AM GOING THROUGH
I KEEP MY CHIN UP
I KEEP A PLEASANT SMILE TOO
I WISH I HAD SOME MONEY
AND DIDN’T FEEL SO BLUE
I GOT NO TIME FOR FUN
I DON’T KNOW WHAT TO DO
4. I GET UP AT FIVE
GO TO WORK BY BUS ‘N TRAIN
I SING THE BLUES AT NIGHT
I HOPE IT AIN’T ALL IN VAIN
I HOPE THAT SOMEDAY …/…
5. HARP SOLO
6. GUITAR SOLO
BRIDGE:
7. REPEAT VERSE # 3:
NO ONE UNDERSTANDS
WHAT I AM GOING THROUGH
.8. REPEAT VERSE #1:
I’M HUSTLIN’ AND I’M BUSTLIN’
TRYIN’ TO MAKE ENDS MEET
.9. EXIT: VAMPING
SOFT HEARTED WOMAN
Denise Lasalle, Malaco Music Company-Ordena Music-Peermusiciii, BMI
CARL WEATHERSBY: LEAD GUITAR
1. I’M MAKING ME SOME CHANGES
I’M GONNA RE-ARRANGE MY LIFE
I WON’T PLAY SECOND FIDDLE
TO YOUR WOMAN OR YOUR WIFE
I GOT YOUR BAGS PACKED BABY
YOU CAN GET ON OUT THAT DOOR
YOU SEE YOU’RE SOFT-HEARTED WOMAN
AIN’T GONNA BE YOU FOOL NO MORE
[LISTEN HONEY]
2. AIN’T NO USE TO BEGGIN’
SAYIN’ I OUGHT TO BE WITH YOU
YOU THREW AWAY YOUR MONEY
WHEN MY RENT WAS OVERDUE
I GOT YOUR BAGS PACKED BABY …
3. I FOUND ME A BABYSITTER HONEY
THE TWO WEEKS YOU’VE BEEN GONE
HE CAN ROCK YOUR CRADDLE
BETTER THAN YOU CAN ROCK YOUR OWN
I GOT YOUR BAGS PACKED BABY …
[GO DO YOUR THING HONEY]
4. SOLOS: CARL WEATHERSBY + PIERRE
[LISTEN SWEETIE]
5. I KNOW THAT YOU’RE HURT HONEY
‘CAUSE IT CUTS JUST LIKE A KNIFE
I’M GIVIN’ YOU YOUR FREEDOM BABY
SO I CAN GET ON WITH MY LIFE
I GOT YOUR BAGS PACKED BABY
YOU CAN GET ON OUT THAT DOOR
REPEAT
V1: YOU SEE YOU’RE SOFT-HEARTED WOMAN
AIN’T GONNA BE YOU FOOL NO MORE
V2: I SAID YOU’RE SOFT-HEARTED WOMAN
AIN’T GONNA BE YOU FOOL NO MORE
V3: YEAH, YOU SEE YOU’RE SOFT-HEARTED
WOMAN [STOP]
I AIN’T GONNA BE YOU FOOL NO MORE
PIANO EXITS ALONE
HATTIESBURG BLUES
Pierre Lacocque, Ransart Music, BMI
CARL WEATHERSBY: LEAD GUITAR
1. SOMETHIN’ AIN’T RIGHT WITH MY MAN
CAN’T HELP BUT WORRY AND MOAN
SOMETHIN’ AIN’T RIGHT WITH MY MAN
CAN’T HELP BUT WORRY AND MOAN
YOU KNOW MY HEART TELLS ME
HE IS LEAVIN’ ME – LEAVIN’ ME ALL ALONE
2. HE LEFT FOR HATTIESBURG
SAID HIS MOTHER’S ILL
SAID HE’D BE BACK SOON
HE COULDN’T STAND STILL
SOMETHIN’ AIN’T RIGHT WITH MY MAN
BRIDGE:
3. I’M PACKING MY BAGS
GOIN’ TO MISSISSIPPI
SOMETHING’S GONE BAD
GOT TO GO SEE
MAYBE IT’S OVER
GOT TO BE STRONG
IN MY HEART
IT FEELS SO DAMN WRONG
4. IT’S 3 MONTHS NOW
HAVEN’T HEARD A WORD
I GUESS HE’S IN HIDING
LIKE A RARE EXOTIC BIRD
SOMETHIN’ AIN’T RIGHT WITH MY MAN
5. SOLOS: PIERRE AND CARL WEATHERSBY
BRIDGE:
6. REPEAT VERSE # 3:
I’M PACKING MY BAGS
GOIN’ TO MISSISSIPPI
7. I SENT HIM LETTERS
AND A TELEGRAM
I WISH HE’D CALL ME
TO GET ME OUT OF THIS JAM
SOMETHIN’ AIN’T RIGHT WITH MY MAN
CAN’T HELP BUT WORRY AND MOAN
YOU KNOW MY HEART TELLS ME
HE IS LEAVIN’ ME – LEAVIN’ ME ALL ALONE
REPEAT THREE TIMES + EXIT
GONE SO LONG
Pierre Lacocque, Ransart Music, BMI
LURRIE BELL: LEAD GUITAR
1. I TOOK A JOB
FAR AWAY FROM HOME
YES I TOOK A JOB
FAR AWAY FROM HOME
BEEN GONE SO LONG
SOON WON’T BE ALONE
2. I SLAVED LIKE MAD
GOT SCARS ON MY BACK
YEAH I’VE SLAVED LIKE MAD
I GOT SCARS ON MY BACK
BEEN GONE SO LONG
I’M SICK OF LIVING IN A SHACK
3. I HAD NO CHOICE
THE MONEY WAS HANDY
YOU KNOW I HAD NO CHOICE
THE MONEY WAS REAL HANDY
‘TWAS SWEAT AND TEARS
NOTHIN’ BUT MISERY
CHORUS:
4. I CAN’T WAIT
TO HUG AND KISS YOU SOON
OH I CAN’T WAIT
TO HUG AND KISS YOU SOON
SEE YOU AT THE STATION
‘BOUT HALF PAST NOON
5. SOLOS: PIERRE AND LURRIE BELL
6. MY BODY ACHES
MISSED YOU MORE THAN ANYTHIN’
YES, MY BODY ACHES
MISSED YOU MORE THAN ANYTHIN’
ONLY THE THOUGHT OF YOU
KEPT ME FROM LEAVIN’
7. I CAN HEAR THE TRAIN
RUNNING DOWN THE TRACK
I CAN HEAR THE TRAIN
RUNNING DOWN THE TRACK
WORKING HARDER
WOULD HAVE GIVEN ME A HEART ATTACK
CHORUS:
8. REPEAT VERSE #4:
I CAN’T WAIT
TO HUG AND KISS YOU SOON
9. EXIT SOLO: LURRIE BELL
LIGHT FROM WITHIN
Inetta Visor, Truespiritworks, BMI; and Pierre Lacocque, Ransart Music, BMI
CARL WEATHERSBY: LEAD GUITAR
1. HAVE YOU EVER MET SOMEONE
THAT YOU COULD LOVE FOREVER
HAVE YOU EVER MET SOMEONE
YOU COULD LOVE FOREVER
YOU SAW THE LIGHT FROM WITHIN
AND YOU KNEW YOU WOULD BE TOGETHER
[HITS]:
2. IS IT HIS SPEECH
OR IS IT IN HIS SMILE
ALL I KNOW IS
I WANT HIM TO STAY A WHILE
HAVE YOU EVER MET SOMEONE
YOU COULD LOVE FOREVER
YES YOU SAW THE LIGHT FROM WITHIN
THERE’S NO DOUBT IN YOUR MIND YOU WOULD BE TOGETHER
[HITS]:
3. WHEN THE GREAT QUEEN OF SHEBA
MET SALOMON THE KING
IT’S WRITTEN IN THE BIBLE
SHE FELT THIS DIVINE THING
HAVE YOU EVER MET SOMEONE
LORD THAT YOU COULD LOVE FOREVER
YES YOU SAW THE LIGHT FROM WITHIN
THERE’S NO DOUBT IN YOUR MIND YOU WOULD BE TOGETHER
4. SOLO: PIERRE
5. I THINK I SEE A GLIMPSE OF A HALO
HANGING OVER HIS PRETTY HEAD
HAS THIS ANGEL FALLEN FROM THE SKY
OR AM I DREAMING INSTEAD?
HAVE YOU EVER MET SOMEONE- YOU
COULD LOVE FOREVER
6. GUITAR SOLO: CARL WEATHERSBY:
EXIT [FADE]
CALYPSO IN BLUE
Pierre Lacocque, Ransart Music, BMI
INSTRUMENTAL
GILES COREY: LEAD GUITAR
HELL AND BACK
Pierre Lacocque, Ransart Music, BMI; And Chris “Hambone” Cameron, Chi-Town Music, Ascap
CARL WEATHERSBY: LEAD GUITAR
1. THERE WERE SO MANY DAYS
I WAS SPINNIN’ LIKE A WHEEL
MY LIFE WAS SLIPPIN BY ME
IT WAS A DOWN AND DIRTY DEAL
LIKE A STRAY DOG ON THE HIGHWAY
I WAS STUCK OUT IN THE RAIN
A DOZEN SHOTS OF WHISKEY
DIDN’T HELP TO EASE THE PAIN
I KNOW WHAT’S IT LIKE
ON THE WRONG SIDE OF THE TRACKS
BELIEVE ME WHEN I TELL YOU
I’VE BEEN TO HELL AND BACK
2. I WAS SO SAD AND LONELY
EVEN MORE THAN WORDS CAN SAY
THE SWEETEST DAY OF SUMMER
FELT LIKE THE COLDEST WINTER DAY
BUT NOW I FOUND LOVE
AND THE SUN’S SHININ’ THROUGH
THINGS ARE LOOKING UP, GIRL
EVER SINCE I MET YOU
YES I KNOW WHAT’S IT LIKE
BRIDGE #1:
3. I HAD NO GLOVES WHEN IT WAS COLD
I HAD NO HAT WHEN IT RAINED
I FELT SO HUNGRY AND WEAK
I THOUGHT I’D GO INSANE
I HAD HOLES IN MY SHOES
AND I COULD BARELY WALK
I WAS FREEZING AT TIMES
[BREAK]:
AND I COULD HARDLY TALK
BRIDGE CONTINUES ON THE IV:
I NEVER THOUGHT THAT I’D HAVE
SOMEONE TO WATCH MY BACK
YOU’RE SO KIND TO ME BABY
I CAN’T BELIEVE MY LUCK
I NEVER HAD A FRIEND
WHO COULD SOOTHE MY MISERY
HAD I NOT MET YOU BABY
MY TROUBLES WOULD’VE KILLED ME
4. SOLOS: CARL WEATHERSBY + PIERRE
BRIDGE #2:
5. I HAD NO GLOVES WHEN IT WAS COLD
I HAD NO HAT WHEN IT RAINED
I FELT SO HUNGRY AND WEAK
THAT I THOUGHT I’D GO INSANE
I HAD HOLES IN MY SHOES
HELL AND BACK [3]
AND I COULD BARELY WALK
I WAS FREEZING AT TIMES
[BREAK]:
AND I COULD HARDLY TALK
BRIDGE CONTINUES ON THE IV:
I NEVER HAD A FRIEND
WHO COULD SOOTHE MY MISERY
HAD I NOT MET YOU BABY
MY TROUBLES WOULD’VE KILLED ME
I NEVER THOUGHT THAT I’D HAVE
SOMEONE TO WATCH MY BACK
YOU’RE SO KIND TO ME BABY
I CAN’T BELIEVE MY LUCK
6. I WAS SO SAD AND LONELY
EVEN MORE THAN WORDS CAN SAY
EVEN A NICE DAY IN MAY
FELT LIKE A COLD WINTER DAY
BUT NOW I FOUND LOVE
AND THE SUN’S SHININ’ THROUGH
THINGS ARE LOOKING UP, GIRL
EVER SINCE I MET YOU
YES I KNOW WHAT’S IT LIKE …
7. GUITAR SOLO: CARL WEATHERSBY
I’VE BEEN THERE
YES, I’VE BEEN THERE
I’VE BEEN TO HELL AND BACK
I’VE BEEN TO HELL AND BACK
I’VE BEEN TO HELL AND BACK
I’VE BEEN TO HELL AND BACK
I’VE BEEN THERE
I’VE BEEN THERE
I’VE BEEN THERE
EXIT
SAY SOMETHING GOOD
Giles Corey, Lubricated Music, BMI
GILES COREY: LEAD GUITAR
1. NOW WHO SAID SOMETHING ‘BOUT A BROKEN HEART?
C’MON SUCKA, IT AIN’T YOUR FAULT
TAKE IT ON THE ROAD, IT’LL TURN TO ASPHALT
2. AND WHO SAID SOMETHING ‘BOUT ANOTHER MAN?
IF YA SEE HER KISSING HIM,
THAT POOR FOOL’S GOING BACK WHERE YOU BEEN
3. NOW, WHO SAID SOMETHING ‘BOUT SOMEONE NEW?
THERE’S A PAIR OF HIPS SHAKIN’ ON THE FLOOR
BEST TRY TO CATCH ‘EM ‘FORE THEY GET OUT THE DOOR… SUCKA
4. BUT YOU BETTER SAY, SAY,
SAY…YOU BETTER SAY SOMETHING GOOD – AT LEAST I WOULD
5. PIERRE [SOLO]
6. NOW WHO SAID SOMETHING ‘BOUT FISH IN THE SEA?
COME ON, SUCKA, GRAB A NET
HOW MUCH BETTER YOU THINK IT’S GONNA GET?
7. AND WHO SAID SOMETHING ‘BOUT THEM SHAKIN’ HIPS?
LORD, SHE LIKES TO SHAKE ‘EM SLOW,
LORS, SHE LIKES TO PUT ON A SHOW
8. WHO SAID SOMETHING ‘BOUT THEM SMILIN’ LIPS?
TALKIN’ ABOUT WHAT YOU NEED–
C’MON, SUCKA, INTERCEDE
9. BUT YOU BETTER SAY, SAY,
YOU BETTER SAY SOMETHING GOOD
10. GUITAR SOLO: GILES COREY
FOOLISH MAN
Pierre Lacocque, Ransart Music, BMI
CARL WEATHERSBY: LEAD GUITAR
1. SOMETIMES YOUR BODY
WILL PLAY A DIRTY TRICK
IT’LL TELL YOU TO DO THINGS
THAT CAN MESS YOU UP REAL QUICK
IT HAPPENED TO ME, PEOPLE
AND I FELL FOR ANOTHER GIRL
I TOOK THE DARN BAIT
NOW MY MIND’S IN A WHIRL
I’M GOING BACK TO MY WIFE
YES I’LL TREAT HER THE BEST I CAN
GONE ARE THE DAYS
GONE ARE THE DAYS
OF BEING A FOOLISH MAN
YES … A FOOLISH MAN
2. THIS SEXY-LOOKING CHICK
SHE SWEPT ME OFF MY FEET
YOU KNOW SHE WAS DRESSED TO KILL
AND SHE LOOKED SO DARN SWEET
NOW I’M SITTIN’ HERE WONDERIN’
WHAT WAS I THINKING
I GAMBLED A HAPPY HOME
FOR NOTHIN’ BUT A FLING
I’M GOING BACK TO MY WIFE
I’M GONNA TREAT HER THE BEST I CAN …
BRIDGE:
3. WHEN YOU LOVE SOMEONE
CHEATIN’ AIN’T WORTH A DIME
OH LISTEN TO ME PEOPLE
OR YOU WILL BE DOIN’ SOME CRYIN’ TIME
AND I’VE LEARNED A [HECK OF A] LESSON
THAT I WON’T SOON FORGET
IF YOU USE THE WRONG HEAD
YOU GONNA LOSE ALL SELF-RESPECT
4. GUITAR SOLO: CARL WEATHERSBY
BRIDGE
5. REPEAT VERSE #3:
WHEN YOU LOVE SOMEONE … / …
6. BEIN’ MARRIED
IT WAS NICE AND COOL
BUT I WASN’T TRUE …
AND I ACTED JUST LIKE A FOOL
I WENT FOR THE FUN AND LUST
NOW I WEEP AND WORRY … [STOP]
OH I LEARNED THE HARD WAY
AND I DESERVE NO SYMPATHY
I SWEAR I’M GOING BACK TO MY WIFE
I’M GONNA TREAT HER THE BEST I CAN
GONE ARE THE DAYS
GONE ARE THE DAYS
YES, OF BEING A FOOLISH MAN
YES … A FOOLISH MAN
TALKIN’/FADING
BEING A FOOLISH MAN … OH YES
LISTEN
YOU KNOW SHE WAS DRESSED TO KILL
WORE THAT SWEET, SWEET, SWEET CHANNEL FIVE
I WENT LINE, HOOK, AND SINKER
AND I FORGOT I HAD A WIFE
I NOW UNDERSTAND …
THAT WHAT GLITTERS AIN’T
ALWAYS GOLD…
[FADING]…
BECAUSE THINKING WITH THE WRONG HEAD
AIN’T WORTH THE TROUBLE
YOU HURT TWO PEOPLE
SO THE PAIN COUNTS DOUBLE
NATURE IS CRYIN’
[DEDICATED TO SENATOR AL GORE]
Pierre Lacocque, Ransart Music, BMI
GILES COREY: LEAD GUITAR
1. SPECIES ARE DISAPPEARING
CAN’T TAKE THIS WEATHER SO HOT
WHEREVER WE ARE
IT’S BOILING LIKE A TEA POT
GLOBAL WARMING IS HERE
WHETHER WE LIKE IT OR NOT
FLASH FLOODS EVERYWHERE
CANCER IS WHAT WE GOT
NATURE IS CRUMBLING DOWN
AND WE ARE ALL DOWN ON OUR KNEES
DROUGHT AND SICKNESS ABOUND
AND IT’S HARD TO BREATHE
2. THE OZONE’S LAYER IS THINNING
CREATING A REAL BAD TEAR
WE’RE LIVING HERE IN HELL
NO ONE SEEMS TO CARE
OUR WATERS NEED A CLEAN-UP
POLLUTANTS ARE IN THE AIR
IT’S ALL FALLING APART
WE AIN’T GOT TIME TO SPARE
NATURE IS CRUMBLING DOWN
AND WE’RE ALL DOWN ON OUR KNEES
3. SOLOS: PIERRE AND CARL WEATHERSBY
4. OIL COMPANIES DON’T CARE
OH WHAT A SINFUL NATURE
ZOOS ARE THE ONLY PLACE
WE CAN KEEP THE ANIMALS FROM DANGER
GREED IS A STRONG MAGNET
BUT IT DON’T MAKE THINGS NO BETTER
WE GOT TO STOP THIS MESS RIGHT NOW
WE GONNA DIE SOONER NOT LATER
NATURE IS CRUMBLING DOWN
AND WE’RE ALL DOWN ON OUR KNEES
5. SOLO: CHRIS “HAMBONE” CAMERON
6. WE OPENED PANDORA’S BOX
NOW WE’RE CURSED TO THE END
THE TRUTH IS PEOPLE
WE HAVE STRAYED FROM EDEN
SOON OUR KIDS WILL ASK
IT IS SO PLAIN TO SEE
HOW DID WE LEAVE THEMA WORLD
THAT IS FILLED WITH MISERY
NATURE IS CRUMBLING DOWN
AND WE’RE ALL DOWN ON OUR KNEES
FIRST EXIT: TALKING
YOU KNOW IT AIN’T RIGHT
WHEN ACID RAIN IS NATURE’S COCKTAIL
WE FEED CHEMICALS TO CATTLE
AND IT HURTS OUR BODIES…
POLLUTION IS KILLING US PEOPLE
NOBODY WANTS TO SEE HELL FOR WHAT
IT REALLY IS
LIFE MUST BE REVERED
IT CANNOT BE KEPT IN A ZOO
PEACE WITHIN OURSELVES
MEANS PEACE WITH NATURE TOO…
HUMAN GREED IS A STRONG MAGNET
STRONGER THAN COMPASSION
FEW OF US ARE SEEKING THE LIGHT
IF YOU ARE NOT PART OF THE SOLUTION
YOU’RE DEFINITELY PART OF THE PROBLEM
SECOND EXIT:
DROUGHT AND SICKNESS ABOUND
AND IT’S HARD TO BREATHE [END]