Re: Blues hats, shades, and capes?

[RHartt1234@xxxxxxx]

In a message dated 9/6/2003 9:59:27 AM Eastern Daylight Time, 
alec@xxxxxxxxxxxx writes:

> I find that most club owners
> appreciate a "professional look" to their bands as opposed to guys who come
> in wearing ratty jeans and a t-shirt. It helps give the paying customers a
> sense that they are seeing a professional show

       Typically my band wears suits, and we have fun trying to outdo each 
other with ties, shoes, etc. All of the guys I admire, from Muddy Waters to Rod 
Piazza dress sharp, and that has been a huge influence on me. A good friend of 
mine, Pacemaker Newham, who has drummed with Johnny Dyer, William Clarke, 
George Smith, Shakey Jake and a bunch of others, told me that Shakey said when a 
band pulls into town people should think you're either a preacher or a 
musician because you are dressed so sharp.
       Ironically, as much effort as I put into it, I get irked when reviews 
talked about what I wear as much as what I play, but at least they never say I 
look like a huge slob.
       Ryan