Shows I've Seen

Champale, fried catfish with black-eyed peas and spicy green beans, plus loads of amazing blues and down-home fun at Babe's and Ricky's Inn (4339 Leimert Blvd., Los Angeles). One chaotic little set where there were too many guitarists on stage at once, but Mama put everybody in check and got things going smoothly again. Got to hear Deacon Jones playing his keyboards--wow--and met Nikki Chapman, the local legend. Wow, can she sing! Many very talented performers, including casting director Billy DaMota, whose heartfelt tribute to Mama and the nirvana that is Babe's and Ricky's Inn was just wonderful. I was quite impressed and not at all surprised!

In the house were Keith Johnson, Dea Vise, guest of honor Tony Ybarra (open mic night host for 23 years), plus Richard and Rain Pryor, enjoying the music and general vibe. Really cool place. We shall be back.