Detroit Blues Band - Tears From My Eyes

About Detroit blues

Emery "Detroit Junior" Williams, Jr. was an American Chicago blues pianist, vocalist, and songwriter. Born October 26, 1931 in Haynes, Arkansas, died August 9, 2005 in Chicago, Illinois. A native of Haynes, Arkansas, Williams learned to play piano as a child in Flint, Michigan after his family moved there. He started his piano career in the tough clubs and juke joints around Flint, eventually relocating to Chicago in the early 1950s. He got the nickname "Detroit Junior" for his first single "M...

About This Footage

The 2005 live performance by Detroit Blues Band, captured in the clip "Tears From My Eyes," is a rare gem that showcases the city's rich blues heritage. The seven-minute recording is a testament to the band's exceptional musicianship and their ability to blend various styles, creating a unique sound that resonates with audiences.

One of the most striking aspects of this performance is the leader of the band's soulful vocals and instrumental prowess on piano and saxophone. The description highlights his "great sense of style and nuance," which is characteristic of Detroit blues musicians who often draw from their experiences in the city's industrial plants during the 1920s and 1930s. This distinctive sound, similar to Chicago blues, has been shaped by the migration of Delta blues performers from the Mississippi Delta and Memphis, Tennessee.

The core band members, including Danny on guitar, Wayne on bass, and Bubba on drums, demonstrate uniformly superb performances throughout the clip. Their tight musicianship is complemented by the occasional presence of David on saxophone, Doug on piano and organ, and the late great Jerry on guitar. This lineup suggests that the band's music is deeply rooted in tradition while still showcasing a modern sensibility.

The description also mentions that several prominent local musicians are guesting on the album, including icons such as Sherm (trombone, flute), Dave (harmonica), Mark (horns), and Jory (guitar). This collaboration underscores the band's reputation among musical circles in Detroit. The mention of "A" List musicians adds to the credibility of the description, implying that the band has earned recognition from their peers.

The clip's YouTube description praises the band for being a "musician's band," emphasizing the importance of exacting craft and paying dues. This sentiment highlights the value placed on musical expertise within the Detroit blues community. The description also notes that the band's music is a throwback to a bygone era when live performances were more about the music itself, rather than spectacle or commercial appeal.

The performance captured in this clip is a prime example of what makes Detroit blues so compelling. The energy and passion on display are infectious, transporting listeners to a time when music was indeed "more musical." As the description suggests, the band's ability to blend diverse influences like jazz, blues, gospel, and rock creates a seamless musical archetype that leaves a lasting impression.

The 2005 live performance by Detroit Blues Band is an essential addition to any blues enthusiast's collection. The clip provides a rare glimpse into the city's thriving blues scene during this period, showcasing the band's exceptional musicianship and their ability to craft music that resonates with audiences.

Curated from public records and music databases.