|
Big Names Make Big Noise
Madison Blues Festival one big event from three big players in entertainment
by Dave Leucinger
It's an event that could almost be dubbed titanic. Start with a tour co-sponsored by two marketing giants - the House Of Blues and Southern Comfort (who have already allied for other events this year, such as Chicago Blues Fest and a Summerfest stage). Add Madison promoter Ken Adamany, whose thirty-plus year involvement in the local scene encompasses management of Cheap Trick and of the Factory, the legendary 1960's venue where Otis Redding would have performed but for his fatal plane crash in the icy Lake Monona waters. The result? September 4, these forces join to present Madison's inaugural Blues Festival. Taking HOB's already strong touring package of B.B. King, the Neville Brothers, Dr. John, and Storyville, Adamany embellished on it with additional performances by the Mighty Blue Kings the Kinsey Report, and other acts to be announced. The show will run from noon until 11:00 PM.
Even though a Madison Blues Festival would appear to be a perfect idea (especially as many other Midwestern cities have broken the ice for the concept), the festival has raised many concerns in the community. By incorporating the B.B. King tour on its only available weekend date, the Festival competes with the Taste of Madison while closing a popular boat launching site during the holiday weekend. The delay in announcing the festival has also compromised organizers from advance publicity in national blues magazines. Parking, higher ticket prices than other Midwest blues festivals and pass-outs have also been rocky issues. And does anyone remember the Festival of the Lakes? All difficulties noted, this still is an important event. The prices are competitive (or better than) those of typical stadium concerts. The artist lineup is more New Orleans Jazz & Heritage-style than blues fest pure, but all six major acts are bonifide headliners at other venues. My take? Get out there and support the show, especially to indicate support for a better-planned, community-involved festival in years to come. Madison's blues fans shouldn't have to ship out to Davenport, Wausau, Duluth, or Prairie Du Chien - they deserve their own party. |
