Back Street Park Summer Concert Series Begins Friday

By Allison Canter

On the fourth Friday night of the month, May through September, the BackStreet Park Summer Concert

Series on Backstreet in West Jefferson will be held from 5:30 until 7:30 p.m. For the past two years, the event has featured bluegrass and country music, but this year they are offering more of a variety of music. The concerts are free, but donations to the West Jefferson Community Partnership are always happily accepted. The partnership is a non-profit organization whose mission is to promote West Jefferson.

"We would like to build on the success of last year," said president of the West Jefferson Community Partnership, Phil McMillian. "Last year we had over 150 attend and we are hoping to have more people this year."

All of the entertainers have not been announced yet. On Friday, May 22, the world-class blues band, The King Bees, from Todd, will perform their variety of blues, roots music and swing. The King Bees have performed everywhere from Rome, New York City, Paris and Amsterdam. Guitarist/organist Hound Dog Baskerville and singer/songwriter/bassist, Penny "Queen Bee" Zamagni, founded the band in 1987. The band traveled to the deep south to learn first hand from the "real deal blues folk," according to Zamagni. On drums for the band is Jumpin' Joe Orr, a 45 year R&B vet. You may also see drummer deluxe Martin Henderson or special guest, Possum Jenkins' David Brewer.

Bo Diddley, Tinsley Ellis, Billy Branch, Mojo Buford, Big Jack Johnson, Sam Carr, Frank Frost, Lazy Lester, Ronnie Early have all invited the 'Bees to share the stage with them in the past. They have spent many years on the road with some of the most legendary of blues greats, such as Carey Bell, Nappy Brown, Jerry McCain, Chick Willis, Chicago Bob Nelson and others. Over the many miles logged in the United States and in numerous European tours, they've proven that they can "raise the roof at prestigious concert halls,' such as Lincoln Center in New York City.

"We have been so fortunate to have friends who happen to be blues greats open up their hearts, show a lot of patience and take us under their wing. What ever pleasure we may give through music we owe to them and their guidance," said Zamagni. The CD, Stingin' and Swingin, released by Amsterdam's Tramp Records, features Zamagni's originals and has garnered international reviews. The King Bees also produce several world-class blues festivals in the High Country, including the New River Blues Festival in Jefferson and Winterfest Blues and Summerfest Blues in Blowing Rock. For more information on the band, call (336) 877-2864.

"The concert series will offer something for everyone with a variety of styles and instrumentation available," said Lonon. "All the band have distinct sounds and are well known throughout the High Country. Everyone is welcome to come check it out, enjoy the beautiful park, meet new friends, enjoy the music and while you are there, check out downtown West Jefferson, with its many shops, galleries and restaurants."

Other performers scheduled to appear include: on July 24, a four-piece rock and roll band from Raleigh and Todd, Adult Supervision, which plays the music of the Beatles, the Rolling Stones, the Eagles, Jimmy Buffet, Bon Jovi and several others. August 28 the concert will feature bluegrass and folk band, Amantha Mill. On Sept. 28, Crooked Road Ramblers, old time band, will perform. The BackStreet Park Summer Concert Series will hold a Hometown Christmas Concert. More details will be released later concerning the fall concert. Other events are in the planning stages. Ideas and volunteers are welcome. The Farmers Market will offer food and drinks, such as hamburgers and hotdogs.

"We hope everyone that can come and join us, enjoys the concerts," said McMillian. "The seats fill up extremely fast and I would recommend that visitors bring a lawn chair or a blanket."

For more information on the BackStreet Park Summer Concert Series, call McMillian at (336) 246-3072, Ashe Arts Council at (336) 846-ARTS or Town Hall at (336) 246-3551.

It is comprised of representatives from the town, Ashe Arts Council, Ashe Chamber of Commerce, West Jefferson Business Association, Ashe County Public Library, the Christmas in July Festival and the Farmer's market. According to Jane Lonon, board member of the West Jefferson Community Partnership and Executive Director of the Ashe Arts Council, concerts are held regardless of weather, depending on the band ans the rain site is either the Ashe Arts Center, the Ashe County Farmer's Market shelter or the library's auditorium once construction is complete. Updated information is available on WKSK in the case of a venue change.\