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 Toronto,
Canada Glenn Olive
and Jimi met at the age of 13. Glenn had a band called The Jr.
Beetles at the time. When the two got together it was magic.
Jimi, with his Hofner Beatle Bass, made quite an impression in
the neighborhood and Glenn, a bass player himself, thought it
was really cool. They formed their first band together called
The London Tones and would often play at St. Albans Boys and
Girls Club in the Annex of Toronto. Not long after, they added
Ronnie Bartley. The young mod band would play high school dances,
community events and whatever was available.Check Glenn out at
Planet
Earth on FB BUBBLEGUM
HERO |
 THE
ENTERTAINER
- So
I'm strolling along the Queen's Quay on a cold gray day. The
needle on my iPod painfully needs a break while the few brave
Seagulls scavenge a trash can that was probably filled by winter
touristos. My ears perk when this unfamiliar voice, almost with
husky Springteenish overtones, invades the stereophonic separation
of my head. I ask myself in confusion, "Did I download this?".
I stop to gawk at the frozen ships docked in remnants of ice
in the cold waters of Lake Ontario, still listening to the head
invader. This storyteller has captured my attention with his
musica di mondo. Kevin Kelly is a product of Hollywood, which
in itself struggles to achieve any kind of real or honest potential
of survival in an industry unsure of its future. His songs come
from the heart, not that that is a pre-requisite for artistic
recognition, but rather it's a breath of unsmogged LA breeze,
if this is even possible. Kelly's latest release, Lost In The
Cracks Of The Modern World, features some fine players including
Canadian pop star, Jimi Bertucci, on bass comfortably adding
his flair to The Great Hollywood Ending, a piece that is fitting
considering Kelly's roots in the acting world. Lost In The Cracks
won't sell platinum or even gold for that matter, but songs like
Look For You, Get Out Of My Temple, and the mystical New Orleans
may one day find their way to the ears of social pretense and
awaken the desperation in the weakness of their existence. BUBBLE
GUM HERO http://www.thekevinkellyshow.com |
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Reviewer: Bluesbunny
Review Date: December 16, 2008
LOST IN THE
CRACK OF THE MODERN WORLD
PLAYERS: Novi Novog cut her viola in “Look For You”
as beautifully as she had for Prince in (“Rasberry Beret”,
among others) Jimmi Woods blew his harp on “New Orleans”
& “Record Company” as he had shared it on Springsteen's
("Spare Parts"). Twin brothers Matt & John Zych
teamed up on piano and bass as they had on Kevin's earlier NYC
CD ”Down In Tompkins Square Park”. Billy Sullivan,
played drums and recorded the tracks at Cloverland Studio’s.
Tony Mandracchia (Mitch Ryder) played lead acoustic and electric
guitars, banjo and mandolin in all 15-songs. Clem Jeffreys hit
those high notes on the horn on “These Days” and Jimi
Bertucci (Abraham's Children) showed up on bass in "The
Great Hollywood Ending" as "The Long Beach Choir"
rose up out of the blue to give me some gospel! |
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Performance Review: -
KEVIN KELLY THE
INSTINCT OF CHOOSING IN NOW
by Devon Wendell
The world looks motionless
out there. The madness of ballad, the chosen action of a scene
as it barks from the depths of the woods "The toothless
men are silent this evening." Kevin Kelly bludgeons the
automatons, nursing watered down cocktails in search for the
sub-genre cartoon caricatures of American music and fragments
of a performance. Kelly pounds and shakes the stage into some
skim milk Hell, sweat pouring, hands convulsing over everyone's
guitar chord in that place called now. Ghosts of old Hollywood
scurry past in acknowledgment of their mortality. The "Far
Way Star" may it be Brando, “Boggie”, Cagney,
and with them; Woody Guthrie in tiny glimpses of outrage or Dylan
when peering into an emotional musical scene choice that resonates
with all human conditions and experiences. Kevin Kelly's awareness
that theater and a live performance of rock or “folk”
are only separated by lack of movement and decision, are present
at all times.
Mere enthusiasm or a simple wanting, have no time up on his stage.
Connecting to that intimate, naked place of vulnerability can
frighten those who avoid risk and want an overly defined self
to return to.
Those "Cracks In The Modern World" may nurture those
phobias and if Dylan bolting out "Idiot Wind", Robert
Johnson "Hellhound On My Trail" or Anthony Quinn's
feral yet lonely beast in La Strada scare you from that needed
look inward, you'll miss The Kevin Kelly Show.
That manic monkey on Avenue B, and 10th in NYC all the way to
the all night diners in Hollywood in search of another poem,
an unwritten play, or one last song before crash time, is the
real action of an artist amidst mankind on its unattended axis.
Kevin Kelly will always go there instinctively through that series
of choices. The hunger for that honesty is returning again through
that cathartic process of delving face first into terror and
dread of higher ownership and surrender to the simplicity of
joy and laughter.
It's=2 0all right there in Kevin Kelly and like he proclaims
in his song; "It's All Good."
~ Devon Wendell https://drjazzdotlive.wordpress.com
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Acclaimed Critic for The International Review Of Music and legendary
guitarist/Engineer for Steely Dan, Lou Reed, Bob Dylan, Keith
Richards, Otis Rush, Albert Collins, George Clinton, and countless
of others. |
AMGOLO DELLA MUSICA LEGGERA - a cura di: Mario Marasco
- E' I'unico cantante Italiano residente in Canada che attualmente
sta riscuotendo successo anche ne campoinglese. Capeggia il complesso
de; " Abraham's Children" ed oltre ad essere un ottima
impostazione di voce che le permette di interpretare divinamente
sia i pezzi ritmici che melodici. I componenti del complesso
sono: Brian Cotterill, Ron Bartley, Jim Bertucci e Bob McPherson:
Il complesso appartiene all scuderia della: "Avenue of America
Records Ltd." E' stato emesso il primo 45 girl dal la G.A.S.
Records - un grande sucesso americano tradatto |
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Brampton, Ont.
- I was somewhat out
of the Burgess loop. His voice resonated Broadway or stage with
a mature and seasoned delivery. Serenading our senses with familiar
songs and melodies, the focused crowd appreciated his rendition
of You Raise Me Up, a song recently made popular by Josh Groban.
The organizers of the 100th anniversary of the O.P.P. had brought
in heavyweight Michael Burgess. Burgess is an icon. How do I
know that? Because I googled him. The more I read about this
talented man, the more I discovered that his story has been adopted
by many other artists who share a passion for their craft that
is grander than life itself. Michael has done it all, theatre,
film, TV and on occasion has even found himself in an ice arena.
Mr. Burgess continues to penetrate inquisitive newbie ears, like
my own.BUBBLEGUM HERO Photo by George Onuska |
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 Want a vinyl
copy of this classic rock album. This is truly a collectors item.
Now that vinyl and turn tables are back. Get it now at Discogs. |
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DYK...that Jimi
was born in a small town in Southern Italy in the province of
Calabria. He would often go down to the river to play and meet
his friends. His mom would have to come and get him when it was
dinner time. |
 Brian Cotterill was the drummer and crooner
on "Gypsy". The Squirell as he was called loved touring
and visiting different parts of the world. We were brothers,
friend, and buds. |
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DYK
that Jimi opened for
James Brown. At the ripe age of 14 he was in awe. When Mr. Brown
asked "what you doing here boy" Jimi stood up and said
" I'm opening for you sir " Many years later Jimi and
James would make contact again. Read about The King of Soul and
The Death. (read the story) |
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Nimble fingers Bob
McPherson groovin BUBBLEGUM HERO |
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 All THAT JAZZ BASS - When I first started playing bass I thought
it was so kool to have a Hofner Beatle Bass. I was the talk of
the neighborhood. I had people asking me to play in their band
without even knowing if I could play. As the years went on I
began to add to my collection of bass guitars, of course I could
do this now because I was a working musician. My next bass was
a Rickenbacker, I guess I was following in the steps of Paul
McCartney. Then came a Gibson. But soon I became bored with the
commercial basses that I was so accustomed to. I remember one
day I was listening to David Clayton Thomas 's band rehearse
above the Concord Tavern on Bloor Street when I noticed that
the bass player was using a real old tattered bass. I went closer
and saw it was a Fender Jazz Bass....he asked if I would like
to play it I quickly said yes..it was awesome. David walked in
the room and asked what the fuck I was doing there..I said with
a nervous sound that I was just checking out the bass. He asked
me to leave, of course in a DCT way. I remained friends with
Scott the bass player and many years later had another encounter
with David. That's another story. Oh yeah I bought a Jazz Bass
which I still have to this day. |
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YAHOO ANSWERS - Like so many other bands, AC has
gone through some changes over the years. Although the original
line-up has altered, the spirit of the music remains strong and,
in many ways, more fresh. With time, musicians hone in on their
craft and in certain cases become  mature
players. Jimi Bertucci, lead singer/songwriter and founder of
the band, has done just that with Abraham's Children. The group
explores the possibilities of the now sound and uses their AC
experience as a foundation to create a tasteful and unique pop
adventure. It's interesting to note that these guys have been
rockin' and rollin' for over 30 years and still maintain a bright
and positive outlook about their music in a business that can
sometimes make you cynical. Their sex-appeal hasn't waned either.
Bertucci, in particular, still exudes his rock-star sexuality
to the glee of the females in the crowd. Unlike some bands that
have come before, AC has managed to retain their long-time fan
base while appealing to, and ultimately attracting, a new younger
audience. Their live performance is nothing short of dynamic
so it's easy to see why their popularity continues to grow. Originally
considered a bubblegum pop group, AC's sound can now be categorized
more along the lines of the pop/rock genre. Ats-Abraxas - South
Wales Valleys |
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EMAIL
THE BAND |
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In 2004 Abraham's Children
embarked on a tour of California and Canada which included dates
in the Maritimes, Quebec and Ontario. Mike Babbitt joined the
tour. |
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YOUR AD HERE |
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Email us or call 416 941-9905
Toronto or 323 536-6668 Los Angeles ...........................................
BUBBLEGUM |
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I will be doing
a tribute to Brian tonight on CHUM
between 7-7:30 PM. I'm going to play a segment of the 50th
reunion... |
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ABRAHAM'S CHILDREN
APPEARED ON CANADIAN BANDSTAND MORE THAN ANY OTHER BAND. Visit the store |
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 Marisa
was glued to the radio and television. She sang along with popular
songs and imitated the bloob tube celebrities. As a teen growing
up in Trieste and Toronto, she would keep in touch with the world
with all her subscriptions of teen magazines. Her bi-coastal
lifestyle allowed her to have a good sense of fashion and trends.
Her father was a proud man that served in the Italian Army and
her mother was the loving caring protective Italian mom. A graduate
of York University majoring in Psychology she would soon discover
that entertainment was somehow still flowing through her creative
senses. She decided to leave a successful career in Psychiatric
research and form her own company Marisa Lang Management. Over
the years her company MLM would go on to manage some very important
artists, administrate an extensive catalog of music for James
Bert Publishing of which she is part owner. Her company WOW2210
Productions is in production of a sitcom reality show called
"All About Me" starring Nick Mancuso and Jimi Bertucci.
"To me being a part of this historic event is an honor,
the IWOF represents hope to the future of our heritage".
BUBBLEGUM HERO |
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Scroll down to the music player
and play "Workin For The Man." This was a group effort
with a couple of guests like Moses Hazan on flute. " I believe
if we continue as a band we will grow and WFTM is an perfect
example" said Brian |
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Workin For
The Man
- from the TIME album order it
from the store. |
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Every day I
get up at 5 and I wash
Brush my teeth and comb my hair
Then I put on some trash
Have my instant breakfast as I shoot out the door
Hoping that I'll catch that bus I've never caught before
Isn't a drag workin for a nickel or dime
Is it a drag workin for the man all the time
Everyday I
tell myself
I'm ready to quit
Life isn't easy
But I'm livin through it
Maybe I'll
pretend that I'm a rich millionaire
Dropping all my worries
And I'll drop all my cares
Isn't a drag workin for a nickel or dime
Is it a drag workin for the man all the time |
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 HOLLYWOOD - There's something magical, without getting too
ethereal, when a group of people can get together for a common
goal and enjoy the spirits of a traditional patriotic celebration.
The host was funny and charming, innocently jabbing his American
cronies and praising the humbleness of Canada. I think. Dave
Foley, the unassuming actor that has been on a few television
series including Kids In The Hall and Talk Radio, was comfortable
and proud as he displayed his loyalty of the Great White North
to several hundred transplanted Canucks in the audience. There
were cameras there to interview the celebrities, and I guess
many of them were... only I was unfamiliar with any of the dozen
camera huggers. Our Bondi Junction man Peter Foldy was there
smiling and sending nods across the room to old buddies that
marathoned on the free Labatts Beer. The red carpet which was
inside only to be overwhelmed by an over-lit Canadian flag made
the point. It was an interesting event. The Troubadour is a Hollywood
landmark. The list of artists that have performed there is endless.......
John Rowlands, photographer to the rock of all ages, was clicking
like a lens junkie waiting for another hit of windex. My eyes
feasted on a smooth stomach and a bellybutton you would introduce
yourself to, only to find out later it belonged to Kelly Slatterey,
a sultry young woman from Ontario now living in California strutting
the stage, holding her hair back and throwing her vibrating hips
in our faces. If sex appeal could help sell more cds in pop these
days Kelly was definitely sharpening her tool. Nice tummy. The
evening provided some music with Tal Bachman, the son of legendary
musician Randy Bachman. His solo performance at times was overpowered
by the the noise of the over-zealous crowd but there were many
that gave him some dedicated attention when he played his hit
" She's So High". My surprise of the night was the
group Soul Decision. I'm not sure from where these talented young
men hail, but their  commercial
r&b pop roots were a welcome to the room. Excuse me.... I
spot Jimi Bertucci on the red carpet eating up the camera. He's
talking about the upcoming tour with his band Abraham's Children
that starts in September and focuses mainly in the Ontario area.
Toronto, Burlington, Kitchener, Huntsville and others will be
included on the tour known as Written In Stone AC2005. Have a
good one Jimi.The hip-hugging crowd began to groove more as the
evening progressed .......it's funny, I could never decide if
I liked going to these ladeedaddi affairs. I suppose the perpetual
smiling and toe-tapping to the music wasn't all bad, free imported
beer, ok you're right, you would have loved to have been there...So
in conclusion, I say....when a room is filled with uplifting
kaos does it really matter what we choose to celebrate or where.....Yes
Marisa, there are many Canadians in L.A. cheers... (Photo by
John R. Rowlands) BUBBLEGUM HERO |
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 Nostalgia for a cause The Sun's Shawn O'Shea joins
former bandmates for concert to benefit cancer victimsSeventies-era
Toronto bubble-gum pop band Abraham's Children are reuniting
tonight for a show at the George Weston Recital Hall at the Toronto
Centre for the Arts. The performance is part of the fourth annual
Alli's Journey Take My Hand Gala, a charity that aids young cancer
victims between the ages of 18-35, and was founded by Alli Shapiro
before she passed away from the disease in 2006. It was her brother
Shain Shapiro, who knows Jimi Bertucci, the lead singer of Abraham's
Children, that got the band involved. "I'm not really into
nostalgia (but) when Jimi called me and said, 'Hey, why don't
we get together, we haven't played in 30 years, and it's for
cancer,' I went, 'Yeah, okay,' " said Abraham's Children
guitarist Shawn O'Shea, whose day job is working at the Toronto
Sun. "I'm not really into going back to the '70s (or) Herman's
Hermits, or some old band standing up there playing to 15-year-old
girls. "I find that kind of obscene, actually. All the stuff
that I've done in the last 10 years is more like rock, like The
Stones or The Black Crowes, heavier riff-rock. And Abraham's
Children was definitely a pop band when we were in our 20s."
The reunion has meant three band rehearsals for Abraham's Children,
who will be performing four songs tonight -- Gypsy, Goodbye Farewell,
and Thank You -- and a new song written by Bertucci. "The
strangest thing for me is that, back in the day, when we hit
the first chord of our hit Gypsy, thousands of people would come
to their feet," said O'Shea. "And now we're sort of
a bunch of middle-aged guys in the basement in our socks learning
these songs again. It's very weird to me. It's surreal. The fact
that we're dipping into the past, for a guy who can't stand nostalgia,
it's interesting."In the years since Abraham's Children
disbanded, O'Shea has been a working musician, producer, written
a pop musical, Crazy Nights, and sci-fi book, Sister Snow. He
most recently released a second solo album, Rebel Station, on
May 2. Still, despite his obvious desire to move on from his
bubble-gum pop music days, O'Shea will admit Abraham's Children
accomplished a lot during its short tenure. "The band, in
the short time it was around, was kind of legendary," he
said. "No one could stand on stage with us because Jimi
was the most charismatic frontman I've ever seen in Canada. He
was like Elvis. Women fainted when he walked in the room. LIKE
THE BEATLES "Now, he's like a middle-aged Italian guy, but
back in the day Jimi was incredibly star-like and charismatic.
And Abraham's Children, every place we played, whether it was
20,000 people or 15,000 people, it was like the Beatles. The
girls went insane. So for the short time we were together, the
band was incredible." Tickets -- $25 and $75 -- for tonight's
gala are available at Ticketmaster, with the proceeds going towards
building an Alli's Journey room at Sunnybrook Hospital in Toronto
for people to relax in during chemotherapy treatments. Also on
the bill is Ian Thomas and Rock Plaza Central. JANE.STEVENSON@SUNMEDIA.CA |
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R
O
N |
Visit Ronnie's
page and send him some love and messages. Read how KISS tried
to hire him for the band. Some great feedback and moocho stuff.
Click the Blond Bomber |
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 My fascination
with pop culture has always been entertained by the very special
individuals I had the pleasure of meeting over the years. Of
course, it helps if you, yourself, have some of these qualities
as well. Growing up in the 60's in Toronto, Canada, I found that
the choices for convincing entertainment were still an import
product. Then one day I turned on the TV to see this lanky, good-looking,
young man with an Everly Bro's haircut. The show was called Mickey
A Go Go, and for the first time, I was watching a local show
that appeared as American as apple pie. The idea of a music oriented
show that would appeal to my age group, was simply a moms dream
come true. The host Dave Mickey, was filled with color and energy
that cut right through the tube like a laser. I could see his
effect on the starved teenage populous, and how important this
program would be to the social awareness of the involved youth.
Mickey represented the new generation of ideals, his tailor-made
pastel, mod suites and Beatle boots on the Go Go show helped
st a trend in itself, among the elite nouveau viewers. This was
introduction to an alternative, eccentric forum of performance,
and it made me excited. His off the wall language and repertoire
were refreshing, and not stuffy. The balance in his delivery
was acceptable, and his eclectic collection of music was an education.
Here is a man that thought only of entertaining people, through
ratio or tv. At age 13, while other kids were developing their
adolescent cravings, he was already preparing his playlists.
Like Dick Clark and American Bandstand, Dave had founded... (more) |
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 Sharon MacDougall
- Can almost taste the desire to go back in time and listen to
this stuff! This is real talent and real music. So proud they
are Canadian! |
 Scarlet Anderson
Abe's Babes Oh the memories this brings back |
 Garry
Hill - GREAT POST,THANKS,CANADA ALWAYS HAD THE VERY BEST BANDS! |
 Lee Watson - Yes
Sir, memories of my teen years...Music from those days is hard
to beat.. |
 Chris White - Actually
they had an album called on the radio . Just bought it from iTunes
found it by accident. |
 tmr6264 - Love AC"s
songs! There best song might be 'Goddess of Nature.' |
 5226darrell
- Wow it has been years since I heard this one....makes me happy
and sad at the same time...brings back so many memories of time
periods my life that has passed by..... |
 Robert
Thomas - I always loved this song. Good memories from the summer
of 1973. Thanks for posting. |
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Linda Fraser - I
have not heard this song in years! It feels good to hear it again.
A great group!!? |
 mississauga333 -
heard this song as a really really young kid, finally about 40
years later i finally found it, just an amazing song,thanks for
posting? |
 David
Hansen - Memory returns: The band was camping on PEI in 1973,
and goaded me because I could not swim yet. TICKED, i jumped
in the deep end. I LEARNED. Thx AC!? |
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Terry VanDeelen - My brother in law
Pat Bergin introduced me to Jimi Bertucci at a CHUM 50th reunion
concert at Nathan Phillips Square back in 2007. He was a super
nice guy! This is a great song. |
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READ MORE FEEDBACK
AT TALK2US. GOT CRYSTAL BALLS |
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 RESEDA CA - Yes it's
the ageless Dick Clark.
Back in the seventies Dick heard of a young upcoming band named
Abraham's Children. He had heard one of the bands songs on the
radio and inquired who and where they were from. An executive
from Buddah Records the bands label in the USA sent Dick a copy
of their hit song Thank You. He was quick to put it on his show.
The song went on his famous Rate A Record. Bandstand would play
two artists and the audience would decide which one was better
and would be a hit or miss...well we would like to tell you that
it won, but we're not sure. Ironically when Jimi moved to Malibu,
California Dick was his neighbor and although the question did
pop up he couldn't remember if it did win....so for all the trivia
buffs out there we put this task on to you....Did "Thank
You" win on American Bandstand Rate a Record?....WIN A CD
IF YOU CAN FIND OUT. BUBBLEGUM HERO |
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Send us some feedback
and
let us know what you're up to... |
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I was very impressed with AC the
band. When thay showed up at our party the crowd went nuts. Considering
that almost everyone there just came back from the concert. The
guys were really friendly and felt very comfortable even though
the majority of people that attended the bash were gay. Jack
their manager and my friend informed us that the band was straight.
Not that it mattered. They had a great time and we enjoyed having
them there. Thanks guys. Spider - Moncton NB |
INFORMATION/WRITEUP (cont'd from Bobby)- 5.The original members of Abraham's Children
reformed in 2000 and spent some quality time in Toronto's Amber
Studios with George Semkiw, as well as other sessions on occasion.
A deal was struck with Bullseye Records in 2001 to re-release
TIME. Then in 2004 the band marked it's 30th anniversary with
30, a collection of Abraham's Children, solo Bertucci and new
material to rave critical reviews.
This Toronto, Ontario group's roots go back to the late sixties
as a band called Just Us and they were later known as Captain
Midnite's Dirty Feet (from an American comic strip), but when
the strip's owners would not allow the use of the name in the
U.S. they adopted the new moniker, Abraham's Children. A 1968
45, The Lovin' Things is also attributed to them.
They basically played melodic pop/rock and Goodbye-Farewell and
Gypsy in particular, were hits (the latter an international one).
These both figured on their album. Indeed, Gypsy was the stand-out
track and one of several melodic pop rockers which included How
To Be A Lady, Thank You and Children's Song. Side two is a little
more progressive and the rockier Woman "O" Woman catches
the ear. Recommended. In 1974 they veered towards a heavier sound
and became known as The Children. Shawn O'Shea formed a new group,
Bang, in 1976, which also featured Ron Bartley.
They also had one track, Goddess Of Nature, a melodic, mid-tempo
soft rock number with strings in the background and a short,
but loud, lead-guitar break on K-Tel's Music Power compilation.
- Vernon Joynson and Costas Arvanitis |
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CLAIRE CASCONE
THE BIG WINNER. |
#1 Being a flower child of the early seventies
, I, like most people my age, was discovering music through my
little yellow transistor radio.
Being a young teen, the dial was always set to 1050 CHUM.
One day I heard the DJ introduce a song by a new band from Toronto.
Hmmm..my hometown, so of course it sparked my attention.
That day was my introduction to Abraham's Children, a band that
I knew I had to see, somehow.
Well, that day finally came when I heard they were playing at
Centre Island.
My friend and I got there early to ensure a good spot in front
of the stage so that we could see our new idols up close. I was
hooked, and so was the crowd. We all sang along to "Gypsy"
since we knew all the words due to a lot of airtime.
I think I deserve a T-shirt because I am now in my early 60's
and consider myself to be a LOOONG TIME fan. I'm pretty sure
there was no merch table back in those days, and even if there
was, there is no way I could have afforded a keepsake of that
concert.
Here I am many years later and still support the music of our
hometown boys.
Thanks for your "TIME". |
Claire Cascone - Rock N Ray Michaels,
I remember when you were at that "other station" and
you had just played "Gypsy", then when the song was
over you spoke very highly of Jimi. I was almost going to call
into the station to tell you about the time I saw and met Abraham's
Children at the Island.
Thanks for sharing the pictures! :) |
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TURN UP THE SOUND |
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 Toronto,
Canada The
Police Busted - Two members
of the band The Police were busted outside a concert hall in
Hamilton, Ontario. The lead singer bass player and keyboardist
for the group were caught behind the venue they were to perform
in. While on a routine inspection of an alley outside the concert
hall, two officers turned their headlights on what appeared to
be, two characters sitting and smoking a cigarette. Upon investigation
the officers asked the two men to show them identification. The
one man said we are performimng here and our id are in the dressing
room. When the officer asked what group it was, they said The
Police. Everyone snickered and joked. The officers continued
to ask what they were smoking noticing that both men had something
in their hands. One officer asked them to hold out their hands
open. The two were booked for possession of marijuana. They were
give a citation and were told that they would get a court appearance
date in the mail. The two officers proceeded to take the roaches
a put them in an evidence envelope. ( This is not the end of
this story. Read how Jimi and Laurie were picked up by four police
officers during an appearence at the Picadilly Tube while The
Police from England played half a mile away in another club.
They were cuffed and spent the night in a Toronto jail..(read more about the Police) |
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NEW The AC Abstract Tee
- check it out at the store. It's awesome. |
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 Burtonstock
Sherman
Oaks, CA
- Hold that in......Audio genius and Jimi B's sound engineer
Rich Kluth, of System 2000, having a few laughs and more with
our Guess Who....you know it, Burton Cummings. The surprise party
that was thrown for the canuck star by wife Cheryl had a sixties
theme, called Burtonstock. Every room in the house was decorated
with touches of psychedelic flavors. The "by invitation
only" gathering was a treat for about 50 of his friends.
Guests included Knack drummer the late Bruce Gary and pop artist
Jimi Bertucci, who performed a duet of the classic "Whiter
Shade of Pale" with Cummings. The evening was documented
by videographer and producer Gary Strobal (The Monkees) for future
viewing. Gary's gift to the Canadian super star was a video copy
of Burton's appearance on The Dating Game. As we all sat around
oohing and ahhing over the hit TV show , Burton watched in amazement.
"I don't think I've ever seen this," he commented.
photo by Jimi B .BUBBLEGUM HEROES't t |
 Robert Davi - Crushing Grapes
The 10 Freeway into Los Angeles
has to be the baddess freeway in the world. It was constructed
by Satan. An asphalt and concrete road of toxic hell that challenges
the Angelino raged raccoons and their metal monsters. Ok, I'm
exaggerating a bit. Usually my drive into town helps me prepare
for the direction of the conversation and to fine-tune the questions
that continuously dance in my clouded head. I say this because
I have yet to ask someone I have interviewed any questions that
were actually prepared well ahead of time. I was forty minutes
late. I imagine this would have been enough of an excuse for
anyone waiting at the other end to get up and bid the interview,
and...(read more) |
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Live at Hollywood
On The Queensway in Toronto, Ontario Canada. The
band kicked off their Canadian dates at this famous rock landmark.
AC performed all their hits including material from their latest
cd 30. The new cd is filled with cuts that have never been released,
a couple of live songs and some radio interviews. This disc also
includes a 16 page booklet with lots of neat pictures and stories.
After the show the group met with dedicated fans that waited
with CD's, albums, books and pictures hoping to get autographs
and chat. Over the years Abraham's Children went through some
musical changes as well as members, but the essence of the music
still remains. The meet and greet saw fans of all ages. The band
plans on taking a couple of days off and then continue on the
road. Manager Marisa Lang explained that many dates are being
added and the possibilities of Europe are looking good. |
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 O.P.P. – The 100th anniversary
of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) was more than a celebration
of beginnings, it was a tribute to the men and women who, for
100 years, have been patrolling the highways and roadways within
the province of Ontario. Commissioner Julian Fantino and his
crew allowed us into the history and workings of this prestigious
force that began in 1909. Our host, Sam Ciccolini, is no stranger
to the duties of contribution and welfare to this province. A
recipient of the Order of Canada, Mr. Ciccolini eloquently guided
us throughout this milestone event. Premier Dalton McGuinty gave
his campaign speech (not really) and showed sincere gratitude
to these men and women in uniform that, for a century, have helped
keep the province of Ontario a safe place to live. BUBBLEGUM
HERO |
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Ok let's rock n roll.
Ready for a take Ron? |
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 I don't imagine that Ron will remember me but
I knew him before he and his then girlfriend lived in the annex.
I have been checking the web for along time to see if there was
any updated info about the band. I am pleased to hear that you
are still making music and would love the opportunity to see
you play again. It would be great to hear from you and to catch
after all these years. Donna (read more feedback from around the globe.) |
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RONNIE... |
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 TORONTO - TIFF, as it is known in the industry, is perhaps the
biggest schmooze circus in a city that is as diverse as some
of the films being promoted. I took a ton of pix and my friend
and co-worker Tony Morrone captured many of the events on film.
Look who's Out There with Melissa DiMarco. Why, it's our own
camera candy, Jimi Bertucci. The two met up at Italian Cinema
at the Toronto International Film Festival. The gala was held
on the Kajama Tall Ship at Toronto's beautiful Harbourfront.
Melissa, gearing up for her show, was seen schmoozing with and
interviewing some of the guests. She is no stranger to the tube
having appeared on many series as well as movies including Duct
Tape Forever, a comedy based on the Red Green Show. Jimi was
promoting his new sitcom All About Me currently shooting
in Toronto, which also stars Marisa Lang, and Nick Mancuso. BUBBLEGUM
HERO |
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DAVID AND GOLIATH- (cont'd from History) ...of Graham
Electronics. The flap started last July when Besprozvanny left
Mira Mesa based Electronics Solutions, which is a subsidiary
of Zero Corp., a multi-million dollar electronics firm. Before
he left Electronics Solutions, Besprozvanny was involved in the
development of the backplane. The company hired an outside consulting
firm to assist in the design, and it spent $170,000 on the project,
Bolton said.
The backplane took six months to develop and it hit the market
last August, Bolton said. Upon leaving Electronics Solutions,
Besprozvanny rehired the same outside consulting firm, Electro-CADD
of San Diego, to design an identical piece of equipment, alleges
Bolton. "It's like coping a test," Bolton said. "They
copied our test and they didn't have to study." Bolton said
his company wants Graham Electronics to cease development work
on its own backplane because it "pirated" Electronics
Solutions' "trade secret." Bertucci at Graham Electronics
said the premise of the injunction is "ridiculous."
A product no longer retains "trade secret" protection
once it is released to the market, for more than six months,
he said. Also, the backplane being developed by Graham Electronics
is completely different from the one being sold by Electronics
Solutions, Bertucci said. Graham's backplane uses three signal
layers, while Electonic Solutions ' uses four signal layers,
he said. The Graham backplane would have a special signal-routing
system that does not exist on the Electronic Solutions back plane.
Also, Graham's backplane would probably use six pin power plug.
Electronic Solutions' power plug has ten pins, Bertucci said.
"We have built a better mouse trap and they're angry,"
Bertucci said. " They simply don't want the competition."
Besprozvanny, a Russian native, said he has many years of experience
in the backplane technology, and designing another backplane
from scratch was easy. And although the same consulting firm
was used by Graham to design the new backplane, Besprozvanny
said Electro-CADD strictly guarded the plans it developed for
Electronic Solutions. "They promised us that they would
generate the database completely from scratch," Besprozvanny
said. Bertucci said he believes the petition was filed solely
to keep Graham Electronics from debuting its design at a national
trade show Feb. 14 - 17 in Long Beach. The case is scheduled
to be heard at 9:00 am Feb 13 in San Diego. Bolton said competition
has nothing to do with the injunction petition. " Frankly,
we wouldn't be wasting our time or money if we didn't feel we
had a case. We have reason to believe they have used our technology
and we're going to do something about it. |
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Have any photos of the band
we'd love to have copies. |
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What ever happened
to Alan Caddy? Alan Caddy
, Later, he produced the Canadian band Teenage Head for the A&M
label and whose self-titled debut album is now out on CD, featuring
the original Caddy mixes. Abrahams' Children was another band
Caddy produced whose first LP produced no less than three hits
and whose Jimi Bertucci - lead singer and songwriter since inception
- reports that he learned a lot from Caddy, who continued
producing through to the late 1980's.Read the complete story. |
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RUBBA |
JUNGLE DANCE |
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Kensington Studios right
in the heart of downtown Toronto. The beef patties at Kings are
to die for and the vibrant diverse colors around the neighborhood,
are enough to make a rainbow dance. Kensington Market is a landmark,
a treasue location where reality and imagination meet. I believe
Jimi started his A&M album here. |
Talk2us: It was
around 1978 and I was working the door at the Piccadilly Tube
while going to O.C.A. (Could you ask for a better life, art school
by
day, rock 'n roll by night listening to some of the best music
in the world!). Saturday night and the joint was hoppin', when
I glanced up to see this very good looking young man with long
dark hair grinning down at me. Instead of taking a seat
he proceeded to saunter off to the
cigarette machine, directly in my line of vision, and casually
leaned there to watch the band, occasionally flashing this infectious
smile in my direction. That night, as it often happened, a fight
broke out. However this one quickly got out of control and I
became really nervous. Grabbing my
cash drawer (I always have been extremely conscientious) I quickly
retreated to the cloak room. Which was a very good idea since
the place where I was sitting was soon piled high with bodies
(a kickin'
and a gougin' in the mud, the blood and the beer). As the bouncers
were managing to throw the offending parties up the stairs and
into the street who should appear in front of me but the young
man of 'the smile'. Like a knight in black denim he was making
sure I was all right. He told me his name was 'James' and he
was with
'The Police'. I was momentarily confused, shouldn't he have done
something about the fight? Later I found out he was also known
as 'Jimi Bertucci '
Max Miller - maxmiller@i-zoom.net |
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(cont'd from
history)...
"
please give a welcoming round of applause to one of the greatest
bands to come out of Canada....Abraham's Children." "The
roar of the crowd was like a constant sound of white noise hissing
in the air. We were escorted on stage by three security guards.
The stage was flooded by a million watts of lights that blinded
our vision of the crowd. I plugged in and approached my microphone.
Good evening Hamilton, are you ready to rock? The screams got
louder. We opened with one of our hits, Goodbye Farewell. As
soon as the crowd heard that trademark  intro with the bass,
they began rushing the stage in herds. Still blinded by the overwhelming
lights, we could see the playing field of the stadium begin to
fill up with young fans rushing towards the stage. There must
have been thousands. The security guards jumped on stage and
asked us to stop, unplug and move to the side of stage left near
our trailer. The crowd was frantic. The dj came back on stage
and announced that, if the crowd did not move back, the concert
would not continue. After about 10 minutes of reorganizing the
excited stampede of fans, the dj announced once again, "Ok,
let's try this again...Abraham's Children." Ok, here we
are again. Are you having a good time, I asked. The crowd yelled
out a big YES of approval. We began with another one of our hit
records, Gypsy. Once again, the over-enthused fans began approaching
the stage. This time, it seemed the numbers had doubled. They
pushed and shoved their way closer and closer, crossing the fence
that separated the stage and the field. Hundreds managed to knock
down the barricade and climb onto the stage. We jumped off the
stage with our instruments into the long stretch limo waiting
for us. We began driving away on the field, being chased by teens.
It was a weird experience, almost frightening. As I looked back
through the limo window, I could see people on stage trying to
take cymbals, microphones and whatever else they could get before
the guards got to them. We drove back to the hotel where we were
staying and were greeted by fans in the lobby. After signing
a bunch of autographs, we headed to our rooms where we remained
until the next day." |
 SCOTT CARPENTER -
ICON DJ I took a drive up Yonge Street while
visiting Toronto last summer, only to notice that the monster
CHUM sign was absent. Staring at the remains, I took in a deep
breath of nostalgic air. What had once been the radio king of
a bubblegum nation was now just another brick and glass building
blending in with a city that had, at one time, craved music to
dream by.
When I spoke to Scott Carpenter I wasn't only speaking with an
icon of radio, but also with a musician and somewhat of a modern
day entrepreneur. The spinmaster, now retired and living in Fredericksburg,
Virginia, is enjoying mocha lattes, the Carribean and his musical
family. Scott, also known as the "Boogieman" on the
most influential radio Station in Canada , has seen his share
of rock stars, one hit wonders and an ever-changing industry.
My predictable question came as no surprise to the airwave giant.
"Where is radio going I asked." He paused and in his
retired dj voice explained, "I think we're probably going
to see more consolidation. Let me put it another way. I think
we are going to see two tiers of radio. One tier will be the
consolidation stations like Clear Channel and others, and the
other tier will be the local and smaller group ownership stations.
Those will be where most of the creativity will come from."
The New Radio, as it's known, is now a reflection of old radio.
When rock n roll was discovered in the fifties it blasted...(read more) |
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K-TEL This Toronto, Ontario group's roots
go back to the late sixties as a band called Just Us and they
were later known as Captain Midnite's Dirty Feet (from an American
comic strip), but when the strip's owners would not allow the
use of the name in the U.S. they adopted the new moniker, Abraham's
Children. A 1968 45, The Lovin' Things is also attributed to
them. They basically played
melodic pop/rock and Goodbye-Farewell and Gypsy in particular,
were hits (the latter an international one). These both figured
on their album. Indeed, Gypsy was the stand-out track and one
of several melodic pop rockers which included How To Be A Lady,
Thank You and Children's Song. Side two is a little more progressive
and the rockier Woman "O" Woman catches the ear. Recommended.
In 1974 they veered towards a heavier sound and became known
as The Children. Shawn O'Shea formed a new group, Bang, in 1976,
which also featured Ron Bartley. They
also had one track, Goddess Of Nature, a melodic, mid-tempo soft
rock number with strings in the background and a short, but loud,
lead-guitar break on K-Tel's Music Power compilation.
(Vernon Joynson/Costas Arvanitis) |
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....(cont'd
from jimi)THE DUKES ... Bogdonavich Joseph Campanella, compliment the movie with
colorful wit and, at times, with some slapstick humor.
The Dukes has all the ingredients of becoming a classic without
the car chases or blood and gore that are so often splashed on
the screen without purpose. Mr. Davi should be very proud as
he enters the arena that for many years has been dominated by
the Spielbergs and Howards of the industry. As a fellow Italian,
I am glad to know that the gates of artistic endeavors are being
opened by individuals like Davi who are depicting our arts community
in film as more than just mobsters. JB |
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I remember when Gary walked
into the Avenue of America offices filled with excitement and
annouced we had made the top 100. in Cash Box. |
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When Jimi met
up with Sting in Los Angeles,during one of Stings concerts, they
had a chance to talk about that awkward evening in Toronto when
both bands were appearing a mile a part from each other.Jimi
was performing at the Piccadilly Tube and The Police (England) were at The Edge. Sting mentioned
to Jimi " hey it could of gone either way"...sure Sting.
(read
more) |
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 Whether you are producing
a multi-million dollar commercial or a small budget film, James
Bert Publishing can
provide a catalog of songs and music that can compliment the
end results.Since 1973 we have been providing hit-making music.
Drop us an email and let us be part of
your next winning project. Or call us in Toronto 416 941-9905 |
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August 10 1974
In
a rock vein, the Toronto quintet Abraham's Children have had
two hit singles with UA and will be recording an album in August. |
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This is one of the
very few sites that offers exclusive items and music of Abraham's
Children and its members.(more) |
 Oldies
1310 morning host Brother Bob weekday mornings from 6:00am -
10:00am! and request "Thank You" "Gypsy"
Goodbye Farewell" from Abraham's Children.(REQUEST)
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 Serra - wood, silver cross, silver spacers,
leather $29.99 plus S&H clasp |
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Bobby was the
quiet, but not reserved member of the band. When it came to making
a decision ...the wait was forever....oh those poor waitresses
...(more) |
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Just had a chance to listen to
some of your songs, actually all of them WOW they were great.
You don't often get songs of this caliber on the web, I'm very
impressed. Rudy - Brazil...more feedback |
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CANADA D' EH There's something magical, without
getting too ethereal, when a group of people can get together
for a....(read more) |
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DYK - Before
they were CMDF, AC, JIMI B, THE POLICE, they were simply know
as Just Us. |
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Through My Window
Through my window there are many worlds
Some created some visible only to my eyes
The flying machines the crashing beams
Waterfalls clouds that resemble cotton balls
Aging man youthful girls purple trees
Through my window I can fly high
Converse with the moon touch the sky
Slide on rainbows soak in the rain
Build castles of sand feel no pain
Through my window she waits for me
To journey in lands of fantasy
Never a clock or time to rush
Treasures of love that ooze and gush
Through my window my music is free
Profound are the words meaning to me
Naked I stand without fault or shame
Never to judge the riches I gain
Through my window life is precious
Full of hope and unpretentious
Children laugh with sound elation
God smiles
GET YOUR FILL OF POETRY |
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THE BLOG
My days as a blogger or forum
gladiator are behind me. Ok, perhaps I will indulge in the odd
verbal sparring on occasion to satisfy the addict endorphins
I created while spinning my opinionated views. The lesson learned
during this combative rebuttal of wit made me come to several
conclusions. When you are in a political forum or blog, no matter
what your craterous ideals are, the chances of converting others
to your ideologies are slim to nil. However, if one displays
some form of intellectualism during the font-trading refutation,
intimidation will appear obvious causing a noticeable affliction
on the screen. For example, I appeared on a blog that was
praising a newly released film by Bill Maher called Religulous.
I was amazed by how many people supported the actions of this
unscrupulous low-life character. Here is a man with the opportunity
to use HBO and its affiliates to promote peace and unity in an
environment that is so hurting for compassion and a positive
spin on everyday existence, and yet he continues to condemn one's
spiritual or religious beliefs. I was very aware of his atheist
persuasion and his overwhelming dislike for the Christian and
Catholic communities. His lack of moral behavior I attribute
to his low self-esteem as a youth and askew upbringing. Educated
at a couple of decent schools and colleges I could not comprehend
his direction of demoralizing the fabric of our establishment.
This was my first of many offerings to this blog, that would
later become a personal assault on this despicable excuse for
a human being. I chose to appropriately name myself. |
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VDB: Bill
I would not waste my time or money to see a hacker like you on
the big screen. It's bad enough I accidentally see you on TV
and that irks me deeply. Why don't you try washing your hair…you
see Bill, with HD television we can all see your ugliness, physically
and what's in that small pea of a brain. Bill am I being too
hard? Gee! You and Maxine Waters would make a great couple; you
are both from the same place, the sewers of society. And let's
talk about your nose that fills the screen. I imagine it comes
in handy when you are bent over sniffing Liberal butts. The main
reason I don't order HBO is you Bill that's right. Until they
change their format and put someone in your slot that has some
integrity, just then I might order it…NA. Ok Bill I have
to go and watch O'Reilly at least he baths and washes his hair. (The Blog) |
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SAN DIEGO The
3 amigos. What would a great concert be without friends getting
together after the show to share a couple of drinks and some
old tales? Gordon Lightfoot's songs still stand the test of time,
as witnessed the other night at The Pechenga Casino. After almost
4 decades the man can still deliver these songs as if they were
fresh from the market. Long time friend and drummer Barry Keane
has known and worked with Jimi for..well, let's say a heck of
a long time. Jimi met up with Gord at the CHUM's 50th anniversary
bash, at Nathan Phillip Square, where he performed and Jimi signed
many autographs for enthused fans. Photo by John Rowlands |
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GET
THE POETRY... |
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Cathy Young and Jimi have
been working on music for over 35 years. The Gypsy as they call
her , recorded on many of The Childrens hits, including hits
on Jimi B's solo career. |
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MY ALL |
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EMAIL
US |
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