NEW!!!! The "Journal Page!"
Too many great stories occur when Ron is around. Some stories are newsworthy enough to go into the official biography, but some are just funny or intriguing enough that we have decided to start an online journal to keep you up to date as stuff occurs. Enjoy!
RON THOMPSON DAY IN SAN FRANCISCO!
September 5th 2007
Ron Thompson Day in San Francisco! began first thing with a 6:15 AM chat on the KFOG Morning Show. You can enjoy Ron belting out a live acoustic version of Cadillac Walk on KFOG's "Flashback" archives:
http://www.kfog.com/morningshow/flashback.asp
Ron live in the KFOG studio
August 27, 2007
Photo courtesy of Jackie McCort
Later that morning, Ron dropped by Caffe Trieste in North Beach. Caffe Trieste has been serving up optimum quality Espresso coffee and fabulous music for almost a half century in San Francisco. A gathering of long-time friends were waiting to start the party early! Ron pulled out his dobro guitar and provided a short acoustic set right then and there on the sidewalk.
The big party took place that evening at Biscuits and Blues, one of the top blues venues in the nation. Ed Ivey, Biscuits & Blues Booking Agent (and a superb musician in his own right), took the stage and launched the celebration by introducing Debbie Morton (KRSH radio general manager), who in turn introduced Tom Mazzolini, founder and producer of the San Francisco Blues Festival. Tom eloquently provided a superb tribute to Ron, supplying memories of their many years working in Europe together, as well as remembrances of the San Francisco Blues Festival, where Ron has been a frequent artist.
Tom Mazzolini at Biscuits & Blues
Ron Thompson Day in SF! 9.5.07
Photo courtesy of Carolyn Phillips
Patti Carlise did an amazing job of presenting the official proclamation from the Mayor. Unfortunately, Mayor Gavin Newsom could not attend himself--he was out in Bayview/Hunters' Point talking to the community after another senseless murder had occurred earlier that day. Bravo to Mayor Newsom for forgoing the "fun party" and being where he was needed. That is true public service, and no mistake.
We must take a minute here, and tell you about our friend, Patti Carlise. Patti is Mayor Newsom's right arm, and has taken it upon herself to work tirelessly to bring recognition and more to some of the San Francisco Bay Area's finest musicians--not only did Patti orchestrate Ron Thompson Day in San Francisco!, she has also obtained official recognition for many other worthy artists, such as Tommy Castro, Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, Green Day, the Rolling Stones, James Brown, and James Taylor .. Patti has been instrumental in producing a number of beneficial projects for the people of San Francisco. She has been a leader on projects ranging from Art@Mons (Mayor's office of Neighborhood Services) Music@Mons, Homeless Outreach, and Golden Gloves benefit for after school sports programs, Reel Kids Film, and theatre projects with children to explore their hidden talents. Patti is Executive Producer of Sleeping With the Lion, a "Hitchcockian film noir genre" movie currently in production.
Patti is the quintessential epitome of heart when it comes to public service, and never stops utilizing her position and opportunity as Mayor Newsom's Arts & Entertainment Liaison to "do good." This is a typical Patti Carlise moment...
We walked Patti, Gillian Etherton (Chris Isaak), and Tom Schedler (public relations everything for the City of SF!) up to the sidewalk on RT Day after the first set. They all had to leave early, being the dedicated and hard-working people they are.
While we were saying final good-byes, one of the all-too-frequent homeless people who currently live on the streets of San Francisco came up and asked us for spare change. Patti immediately focused her attention on the gentleman, told him she worked for the City, and gave him her card. She said, "Now, listen. I work for the Mayor. You come see ME and I will get you some help!"
While we have been so impressed by everything Patti is doing, that moment said it ALL. Patti will be leaving her job at the end of the year, to marry her long-time sweetheart, and move to Utah, where she will no doubt continue to rock the world with good deeds, for those both obscure and celebrated.
Mayor Newsom needs to declare a Patti Carlise Day in San Francisco!
Patti Carlise, San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom's Arts & Entertainment Liaison,
presenting the formal proclamation to Ron at Biscuits & Blues
Ron Thompson Day in San Francisco! September 5, 2007
Photo courtesy of Carolyn Phillips
After all the speeches and accolades at Biscuits, Ron took the stage with Kelvin Dixon on drums, and Gary Hyman on bass. This is one hot trio, and they surpassed themselves completely, to the audience's delight!
If you missed Ron Thompson Day in San Francisco! do not worry. Our very good friend and excellent videographer, Rocky Barbanacia, brought along not only his beautiful and charming wife, Shelly, but his camera. Rocky filmed the evening for posterity, and we will soon have it available. Stay tuned. Rocky is one of the best we know, and has filmed Ron numerous times. If you check out Ron's PRESS KIT link on the website, the VIDEO link contains seven minutes of hot music, captured by Rocky and his team of eagle eyed cameramen. When you have the need for quality filming and productions, check out ROC Productions:
Ron Thompson Day in San Francisco!
September 5, 2007
Photo courtesy of Carolyn Phillips
We know we are going to miss some names, and apologies in advance, but some of the folks who took time out of their extremely busy lives to come down to honor their friend Ron Thompson included: Alex Aranda, Rocky & Shelly Barbanica, Mr. & Mrs. Pete Bettencourt, Hal Brandel, Dennis & Corlee Briggs (Mojo Lounge), Patti Carlise, Francis Clay, John Clifton (Mofo Party Band), Judi Clifton, Jane Dulary (Caffe Trieste Berkeley) Deakon & Shelly Bean, Davey Dave, Kelvin Dixon, Sally Edens, Gillian Etherton (Chris Isaak), Gino & Kathy, Margo Goodwin-Gordon, John Gordon, Tom Grayson, Ron Hacker, David Hampf, Noel Hayes (KPOO radio), Dorothy Hill (Blues Art Journal), Gary & Tammy Hyman, Ed Ivey, Tony & Vickie Jiminez, Artis Joyce aka AJ, Velma Landers (Velma's, formerly the Sunday Blues 'n Jazz Club), Terry Later, Tom Mazzolini, Jackie McCort, Guy McKenzie, Debbie Morton, Terry Nevins (Caffe Trieste Berkeley), Gail Oytas, Carolyn Phillips, Merrill Roberts, Tom Schedler (Mayor Newsom's office), Jose Segue (Hicks with Sticks) , Norman Shaw, Sharon Slayton, Bill Stokes, Scott Swenson, Clay & Sue Thompson (Brownsville Blues Festival--no relation, but they are still family!), Leah Tysee, Larry Vann, Bobbie Webb (KPOO radio), and Walter Wright (Caffe Trieste Berkeley).
The "Four Drummers!"
Kelvin Dixon, Deakon, Larry Vann, & Francis Clay
Ron Thompson Day in San Francisco! 9.5.07
Photo courtesy of Alex Aranda
Alex Aranda, Ron Thompson, Larry Vann, & Francis Clay
Ron Thompson Day in SF! 9.5.07
Photo courtesy of Alex Aranda
Major hugs and thanks to all that came to one of the events on RT Day. And the same gratitude is extended to all of you who could not attend, but sent your messages of love and congratulations to Ron, for an honor long due and well deserved!
Ron jumps off stage & boogies!
Ron Thompson Day in San Francisco!
September 5, 2007
Photo courtesy of Carolyn Phillips
Ron, Gary, and Kelvin tore it apart on the first set. The audience was almost insane already. The band took a well-deserved break, and then Ron, Larry Vann, AJ, and Bobbie Webb took the stage and we fully expected the Fire Department to arrive, there was too much heat and smoke from that set! Bobbie Webb was over the TOP. If you are fortunate enough to be joining the Legendary Rhythm and Blues Cruise in October, don't say we didn't warn you! Bobbie will probably capsize the boat--that man is the epitome of soul and then some!
Kelvin Dixon & Gary Hyman!
Ron Thompson Day in San Francisco! September 5, 2007
Photo courtesy of Carolyn Phillips
AJ & Bobbie Webb!
Ron Thompson Day in San Francisco! September 5, 2007
Photo courtesy of Carolyn Phillips
Ron, Larry Vann, & AJ
Ron Thompson Day in San Francisco! September 5, 2007
Photo courtesy of Carolyn Phillips
AJ & Bobbie Webb
Ron Thompson Day in San Francisco! September 5, 2007
Photo courtesy of Carolyn Phillips
On the final and all too brief set, the talented John Clifton from the Mojo Party Band ripped it up on harmonica!
On a bittersweet note, one person who could not be with us that evening, but certainly had much to do with Ron Thompson Day--was our very dear friend, Mr. Leonard Gill. As many of you know, Leonard passed way too early last year on October 4, 2006. Ron dedicated "Room for One More Sinner" to Leonard, and the song evolved way past the current recording. Larry Vann bowed his head in prayer to Leonard's spirit while providing deep drum back-up, and supplied poignant vocals and lyrics to what evolved to an uplifting jam. The song became a prayer to Leonard, and we hope that Leonard was somewhere where he was harmonizing and laying down his amazing bass guitar in support!
Ron & Leonard at the Great American Blues & BBQ Festival
August 2006
Photo courtesy of Victor Rodriguez
Leonard Gill, Guitarski--you were, and truly ARE!--a RESISTOR. You should have been there, but we know that somewhere beyond our ken, you were with us!
BREMERTON BLACKBERRY FESTIVAL
Bremerton, Washington
September 1, 2007
Ron had a fantastic time playing this year's Bremerton Blackberry Festival in Washington State! He thoroughly enjoyed playing with his Northwest Resistors, Tony Coleman and Al Rowe. Tony really destroyed on drums, and Al was incredible holding up the bass end.
Ron tearing it up at Bremerton!
Photo courtesy of Gene Martin
Special thanks to Carol Atkinson, Executive Director of the Bremerton Blackberry Festival, and her wonderful team! Also, huge thanks to Maurice McConnell aka Mofessor, who lent Ron his keyboards, Clint Warner of Bremerton who provided Ron's amp, and Gene Martin, who documented the event with marvelous photos! (Check Ron's Flickr site for more from Gene.)
BELVEDERE BLUES FESTIVAL
September 8, 2007
Canon City, Colorado
Ron enjoyed one of the best performances of the year during his marathon three hour set at the Bremerton Blues Festival in Colorado. WOW!!!!!
Ron & His Resistors at Belvedere Blues Festival
September 8, 2007
Photo courtesy of Gary Guesnier
Michael Velasquez (drums) and John Lindberg (bass) made the trek down from Minnesota to join Ron on stage--and Ron hasn't stopped raving about it yet. He really enjoyed playing with Michael and John, and from all reports--so did everyone else!
Ron onstage at the Belevedere Blues Festival, September 8, 2007
Photo courtesy of Gary Guesnier
Jay & Roberta Boulton work all year long to produce one of Colorado's best blues festivals. Not only do festival-goers get impossibly fantastic music (such as Ron Thompson!), the festival benefits many local causes, such as: the Boy Scouts/Venturers, Spin Pre-School, Desert Waters Correctional Outreach, the Golden Age Center, Fremont County Hospice, Cañon City Volunteer Fire Department, Loaves & Fishes, Manna House, the Colorado Mounted Rangers, the Fremont County Department of Human Services, Fremont Center for the Arts, the Humane Society, the Tallahassee Volunteer Fire Department, Fremont County Search & Rescue, Fremont County Civil Air Patrol, NW Fremont EMS Ambulance and the Cañon City High School Senior FunFest program.
This year, the Belvedere Blues Festival raised almost $150,000!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Jay & Roberta were incredibly easy to work with, and handled all logistics with finesse and superb hospitality.
According to Jay, Ron was "the most exciting blues performer to ever play the Belvedere Blues Festival since it started 8 years ago."
Ron will be returning to the Belvedere Blues Festival next year.
We simply cannot talk about Belvedere without mentioning two of our favorite people, Gary & Margie Guesnier! We met Gary & Margie on the 2006 Legendary Rhythm and Blues Cruise, and you will not meet two finer people in the world.
Gary is famous for his mouth-watering Sweet Mama Barbeque, which has won many awards. Not only can he cook like a devil, watch out when he takes the stage with his harmonica, which he did at Belvedere with Ron, and also some months back at Biscuits & Blues in San Francisco. Gary, you ROCK!
Gary and Margie hosted Ron at their lovely home in Westminster the night before Belvedere, then drove him three hours out to Canon City for the Festival. And then, a few hours after Ron's performance, they dragged themselves out of bed to haul Ron back to the Denver airport, so that Ron could catch an early morning flight back to the SF Bay Area. Talk about dedication to your friends!
John Guesnier (Gary & Margie's son), Ron & Gary Guesnier
Beaver Creek Blues, Brews & Barbeque Festival, Colorado
May 2007
Photo courtesy of Margie Guesnier
It was Gary Guesnier who spread the message about Ron in Colorado, and not only booked Belvedere, but also the splendid Beaver Creek Blues, Brews and Barbeque Festival last May. Gary and Ron are working on a project together right now--we cannot tell you about it quite yet, but it is going to be something!
FAN MAIL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Ron receives many heart-warming and inspiring emails from great people around the globe. As most of you know, Ron does not do computers (yet!), but reads each and every message and appreciates your support. Some of the most recent...
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I saw your show last night at Blues on Grand in Des Moines (June 7, 2007.) I shook my head so much I have a stiff neck today.
Un-fuc%*$g believable, I've seen a lot of shows (grew up in Southern California in the late sixties and seventies) and you sir, are awesome, an unreal slide player, killer keyboarder, and stellar rock and boogie guitarist.
Even with less then a full house you worked your ass off and it showed. Like I read in a quote of yours, you take people to another place where stress and worries aren't allowed, and those places are getting harder to get to.
I feel rejuvenated and frightfully optimistic today. Your love and passion for the music is unmistakable by the energy and confidence in your performance.
I just want to say thanks again. You show all, that there is still good vibes and wonderful surprises still left in the world. Keep the faith and come back as soon as you can.
-- John J. Maloney (Californian living in exile here in Des Moines)
Your new CD ("Resonator") is a GREAT cross-section reminiscent of many Lightning Hopkins recordings completely done in your own style.
Thanks so much for the CD. I play it daily. There are very few musicians that I still listen to that I was listening to 35 years ago: Muddy, Wolf, Bloomfield , and Ron .
Thanks again,
--Bill Bischoff
Bischoff Custom Design & Screenprinting
www.bischoffcustom.com/
3520 #B Oakdale Road
Modesto, CA 95357
209 551 5455
Note: Bill designed and produced the beautiful commemorative Ron Thompson Day in San Francisco t-shirts on very quick notice! Thank you Bill!
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I saw you at the Prairie Dog Blues Festival in 2006 and you totally blew me away. I have always thought that blues were the the sum total of music from the soul and that it's the only music that when you hear it, involves every part of you: mind, soul, sex, emotions, body, and brain. You are a fantastic performer, and musician. Thanks for giving to me of your awesome talent.
--April Z.
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I love your songs and I wish to say I love you. My family, including my kids, say you have a pleasant personality. I think so too.
-- Dr. Emmanuel Ofori
We had a splendid evening at Biscuits and Blues . It was a very proud moment to be present for, and Ron was on fire!!! One of the best nights of live music we ever had.
My husband John loves Ron's music and has enjoyed reading about his rich blues background on the website. John played the trumpet for years and believe it or not, broke it out for the first time in 7 years after we heard Ron play the other night. He was deeply inspired by his music.
Thanks again for a great evening.
-- Margo and John
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Copyright 2007 Ron Thompson
Report from the road with Bruce Willis
July 26, 2007
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Ron and His Resistors (Don Heflin on bass, Rudy Perris on drums) just finished two nights opening for Bruce Willis and the Bruce Willis Band at the Tachi Hotel and Casino in Lemoore, CA.
The band ripped it up on their set, and Ron has never been in finer form! The audience--many of whom were simply avid Bruce Willis fans--could not believe their eyes or ears when they witnessed the Thompson Tornado for the first time.
And neither could Bruce Willis.
While they were changing sets over the first night, Bruce called Ron in the back room and expressed his amazement about Ron's show. Bruce asked if Ron "would mind" joining in on a few numbers during his set. When Bruce called Ron back to the stage, and Ron and his stratocaster started up--the crowd, which was already in a Willis-frenzy--almost lost their collective minds!
Bruce and Ron together--star "power" took over! Bruce is even more charismatic in person and had the audience going with his powerful vocals and harp, and the band was smokin'!
Bruce exclaimed, "Ron Thompson--he looks like a million bucks!"
Bruce's newest "Die Hard" movie opens this week, and we hear it is the best ever. But if you ever get a chance to catch Bruce Willis playing music live, don't miss it! And if you ever get the chance to catch Bruce Willis and Ron Thompson.....
Report from the road with Chris Isaak
July 11, 2007
Ron just returned from six dates opening solo for Chris Isaak and his kick-ass band Silvertone in Washington, Oregon, and California. Chris, the band, and his entire road crew could not have been nicer...or more FUN! The comedy and camaraderie you see on stage with the Isaak Team is real--and backstage is just as entertaining as you would think it would be!
Kenney Dale Johnson, Isaak's drummer and former drummer for Stevie Ray Vaughan, wrote on www.chrisisaak.com:
"Whatever you do, don't be late for our upcoming shows because Isaak and I's old buddy Ron Thompson is opening the shows and he is an absolute wizard on guitar. He is in fact one of the first people I met when I moved to San Francisco from Texas. We were in our early twenties but Ron had already played with John Lee Hooker for 10 years, for Christ sake. And I had heard of him in Texas. So I was in awe of the guy. Sh#t I grew a "Soul patch" just because Ron had one and he was so damn cool. In fact, when Stevie Ray Vaughn came to play the San Francisco Blues Festival, he wasn't famous yet; he asked me "Ron Thompson right?" And I said what do you mean Stevie? And he said Ron Thompson is the guy to blow away out here right?" And I said "Yeah Stevie I guess he is."
Ron added his own twist of humor to the Isaak Team's comedy last week,...well....again, in the words of Kenney Dale Johnson:
"And the venue in Bend is really bucolic! It is on the Deschutes river and they have inner tubes for rafting and bicycles for riding around which brings me to my buddy Ron Thompson, who is opening some of our shows. Now stay with me on this one, Ron is wearing a snow white silk zoot suit with a jacket that comes down to his knees and it is like 90 degrees outside. Better to look good than feel good, right Ron! Anywho there just happens to be a shocking pink bicycle back stage. So Ron decides to ride it on stage, when they say his name. Wow...what a vision. Ron has on the white suit with matching hat and a pink bicycle and he glides up on stage and just KILLS on guitar then rides off. Later in the show Isaak has Ron come up and sit in with us and, again, here comes Ron on the Pink bicycle but this time he is holding on to the guitar as he rides. Quite a sight. Scotty and I were in hysterics. Man I do love showbizness !!!!!"
The last night of the tour in Saratoga, Chris and Kenney surprised and thrilled the audience when they walked out in the middle of Ron's set. Rather than joining in, Chris solicitously placed a stool and a big bottle of water next to Ron, while Kenney tenderly mopped Ron's brow. Chris leaned over into the microphone and asked Ron not to "play so good because it would make Silvertone look bad." The crowd roared, and then Kenney and Chris retreated backstage, while Ron implored, "Hey man, where's my bike?"
Ron got a standing ovation from the crowd at the end of his set, and then returned to jam with Chris and the band (as he did every performance) near the end after Chris had donned his incredible mirror suit. Chris advised the crowd to stay in their seats, as when Ron started playing, they would no doubt self-combust!
Ron and His Resistors are opening next week for Bruce Willis and the Bruce Willis Blues Band. Stay tuned...
Click here for Ron's 2007 Legendary Rhythm and Blues Cruise page
Click here for the 2006 cruise page