Jerry Lee Lewis did a great show recently at the Beale Street Music Festival which as most of you know, is part of the annual Memphis in May celebration. This is one event in particular that my Daddy always looks forward to playing and genuinely has a good time. This year was no exception and it sure didn’t hurt that the weather was picture perfect. The crowds at Tom Lee Park on Riverside Drive between Beale Street and Georgia Avenue were enthusiastic and rowdy as ever (nothing beats a good Memphis audience). “The Killer” loves the energy and responded by playing a full set of 12 songs. There really is something about a home field advantage that is true even for musicians.
Backstage, there was some great BBQ being served and although my Daddy never eats before a performance, it sure didn’t stop me. Aretha Franklin arrived for her set which was scheduled to follow JLL’s and not only did she look as pretty as a spring flower, she was undeniably sweet and gracious to everyone she met backstage. I have always been a fan of Aretha’s music and believe me, it’s a nice surprise when an artist of her renown is just as warm in person as she is on the stage. Original Sun artist Billy Lee Riley was also there to perform. This is Billy’s twelfth year at the festival. He looked and sounded great. The last time I saw Billy Lee was out in Cleveland a little while back during the American Music Masters tribute to my Daddy. Billy and I caught up and had a wonderful time as we munched on cornbread and reminisced.
As you can tell, when I attend a
n event like the Beale Street Music Festival, I truly enjoy chatting with old friends as well as meeting new people. During my Daddy’s set, I was introduced to University of Memphis basketball coach John Calipari, whose Tigers came within an overtime period of winning the NCAA championship during this year’s March Madness. I also received visit from Memphis Mayor Willie Herenton. Actually, it was a quick meet and greet as Dr. Herenton made sure to let me know that he is a huge fan of my Daddy and “wanted to get out there to see the Killer shakin'!!” Click here to check out the video.
Mary Jo Pritchett, who is on the Board of Directors of Pont Neuf and a great asset to our team, was also on hand, helping out both my Daddy and me as she always does. While JLL was on stage, her quote of the night (that really cracked me up) was “Man Phoebe, your Daddy has got to be one of the 10 best dressed men in Rock and Roll!!” Although she got a kick out of being backstage and seeing JLL perform live, she really appreciated seeing Aretha. I can’t blame her; she knows good music when she hears it. 
To our many fans and friends, keep your comments coming. I am forever catching up with your letters and well wishes and continue to be pleasantly inundated by email. Rest assured, I read everything that you send. It is wonderfully humbling and greatly appreciated that you all take the time to write.
Oh, and before I forget, many of you have asked me which of my Daddy’s songs are my personal favorites. That’s really a tough call for me but I would have to go with "Lucky Old Sun" which JLL recorded for Sun Records and more recently, "That's What Makes the Irish Heart Beat” from the award winning “Last Man Standing” album. I guess you can tell that I am a sentimental kind of girl at heart.
Finally, on a personal note, My Daddy and I were deeply saddened to learn of the passing of gospel music legend and long time friend Dottie Rambo. Dottie lost her life tragically when the tour bus she was on was involved in terrible accident in Missouri, on her way to a show in Texas. JLL recorded two of Dottie’s songs over the years which were big hits for him. For longtime fans, I am sure you will recall fondly my Daddy’s rendition of “He Looked Beyond My Fault and Saw My Need” and "Too Much To Gain To Lose.” As Dolly Parton put so eloquently: “I know Dottie is in heaven in the arms of God right now, but our earth angel will surely be missed.”
Everybody take care and say a prayer for someone who needs it.
Phoebe
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