2008-07-22 22:58:32 -
The sky was a magnificient blue just like the music ,and the fans reveled at Bluesfest International's 14th year on the big banks of the Detroit River, opposite Caesars Windsor. With kinetic energy crackling in the air, festival goers were treated to 4 days of red hot blues. Gracing the stage were legendary two-time Grammy winner, Taj Mahal, , Richie
Havens, who opened Woodstock many years ago and the most recognizable voice on the planet, Ana Popvic, rising star from Belgrade, and the Rory Gallagher Tribute, among others.
Donal Gallagher, brother to Ireland's greatest Rock and Roll guitarist, Rory Gallagher, flew in from Ireland to present Ted Boomer, festival owner with one of the coveted guitars that Rory played during his career. In a touching presentation onstage, Boomer graciously accepted the guitar before a packed house. It was a memory-making moment for everyone, followed by an exceptional stage performance by the band.
Joining the Glory of Rory Tribute were Innes Sibun, (guitarist Robert Plant) Nathaniel Peterson, (Savoy Brown) and Vince Converse. The Glory of RoryTribute was assembled by New York's Blue Storm Music with some of rock and blues musics most established performers to present this exclusive tribute.
The guitar will be housed in Canada's only blues museum, located in Place Concord in Windsor, Ontario, which was established by Boomer 4 years ago. Boomer was named Promoter of the Year in 2006 by the Blues Foundation, Memphis Tennessee; the first time this prestigious award has gone outside the U.S.
Says Boomer, " It is an honor and a privilege to have something this special in our possession, to share with other blues enthusiasts."
Next year's festival will mark 15 years for Bluesfest International, so expect big things from this organization during the 2nd weekend in July . Stay tuned and check the website for shows during the year and for a recap of this year's activities.
www.new.facebook.com/group.php?gid=9650749050- Year round Facebook site for Bluesfest International
