September 5, 1947 – February 26, 2008
On October 26th, 2007 I had the pleasure of seeing one of my musical heroes. Buddy Miles. Buddy has a long rock and roll history, starting with a bang playing for The Delfonics and Wilson Pickett, then in the seminal rock/funk/psychedelic blues band Electric Flag with Mike Bloomfield, his own band The Buddy Miles Express, through his time in Hendrix's Band of Gypsies.
After Jimi passed away, Buddy worked succsessfully with Bootsy Collins, Carlos Santana, and many others till his luck ran out in the late 70's due to addictions and bad decisions and he ended up doing some time until the mid 80's.
He regrouped and got some gigs in advertising, most notably the lead vocal job in the highly successful California Raisins ads.
Recently, Miles reunited with Billy Cox (of the Band of Gypsys) to re-record songs from the Band of Gypsys live album, with various of guitarists filling in for the late Hendrix. "The Band of Gypsys Return," was released in 2006.
Last October, Buddy played at my friend's club the Sebastian Beach Inn, in Sebastian Florida. He spent the night meeting folks, taking pictures and signing autographs and telling stories. A real sweet man. Then Buddy and the band put on an awesome (but slightly disjointed) set, featuring a great guitarist - Randy Pavlock. Obviously tired, the show was to end, but the crowd chanted for my favorite Down By The River. Completely drained, Buddy relented, because he obviously and truly adored his fans. They kicked into an extended, haunting, and painfully beautiful cover of the Neil Young classic.
Buddy then said good night. I say goodnight now too. Rest In Peace kind soul.
photos by Java John
Buddy is survived by his partner, Sherrilae Chambers.
DONATONS FOR BUDDY and FAMILY www.myspace.com/buddymilesband
Last week (Feb. 25, 26 and 28) Eric Clapton and Stevie Winwood performed 3 Concerts at Madison Square Garden... their first official full concerts together in nearly 39 years, since Blind Faith! During one of those shows, they paid tribute to their old friend Buddy Miles.
Enjoy:
BUDDY MILES
JIMI HENDRIX
SEBASTIAN BEACH INN
RANDY PAVLOCK
No comments:
Post a Comment