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Crusin’ for Some Bluesin’: California’s Tommy Castro Set to Return to Annapolis—and the High Seas—with You!

Tommy Castro & The Painkillers - Kathleen Harrison

Tommy Castro believes that what is considered “blues” music has shifted over the decades. Thus, what you might hear played on B.B. King’s Bluesville on SiriusXM falls under a rather broad catchall of various influences. Tommy Castro & the Painkillers will bring their swinging’ West Coast sound to the Rams Head On Stage in Annapolis April 2. It’ll be a rocking and rolling return for the ensemble that is not to be missed. Learn more with contributing writer Eric Althoff, including details on a special offer available to fans who purchase a ticket to the show.

Toronzo Cannon Brings His Chicago Blues to the Birchmere

Toronzo Cannon - Photo by Mike White

Toronzo Cannon’s song “Insurance” might very well likely drive you to fits of painful laughter. The song, off his 2019 album “The Preacher, the Politician Or the Pimp,” pokes more-than-gentle fun at the need to get coverage lest a health emergency befall you—if you can afford it (ditto for the eventual bill). It’s that unique ability to make blues fans laugh through their tears that has granted Cannon a most unique career in music. Join contributing writer Eric Althoff as he sits down with Toronzo Cannon to discuss Chicago’s sound, playing with a certain guy called Buddy, and Cannon’s upcoming show on July 19 at the Birchmere.

“Get Out There and Make a Happy Sound”: The Electric Blues of Eli Cook

Eli Cook

Born and raised in the Virginia Appalachia, Eli Cook didn’t have access to television or the internet until much later in life, but he had a guitar, a radio, and the rockin’ spirit of the blues. Building on his early roots, the Charlottesville-based musician has received serious acclaim as an opener for legendary acts like B.B. King, Johnny Winter, and Robin Trower. Learn more about Eli Cook’s story with contributing writer Charlie Maybee, including the reason why Cook believes he is now able to write with greater honesty and boldness.

Karen Culi’s Near-Death Experience Inspires ‘Here We Are’

Recent Articles By Charlie Maybee D.C.-based rock musician and model Karen Culi recently released her new single, “Here We Are.” In the opening verse, she reveals that a near-death experience was the catalyst for the song’s creation with the line “I should have died but I survived.” Backed by a simple, driving backbeat, this is […]