Po' Monkey's Social Club

We have made it. Deep in the heart of The Delta. Po' Monkey's in Merigold, Mississippi. Phil Lee and Tom Mason on stage. But somehow we don't have a back window in the vehicle anymore. Glass all over the back seat. It just up and shattered. We heard a pop, and then falling glass in chunks, and within 90 seconds it was gone!

I'm drinking a beer and pondering the Christmas lights twinkling inside plastic highball rocks glasses. There are assorted stuffed monkeys hanging from the ceiling. Mr. Seaberry has been here running this juke joint in a cotton field since he was a teenager. Some 53 years ago. This here is the real deal. Off Highway 61. Yeah THAT highway. I took the trip down through the Mississippi Delta a few months ago when I moved from DC to Austin. Coming back today, it started snowing just after we crossed the river. Mississippi River, that is. I feel the ghosts of this place. For anyone who cares about music that wakes emotions, a journey to The Delta is essential. And Po' Monkey's is a must. Get it while you can!

-Jessie

Sons Of Bill "The Rain"

Americana State of the Union Address.

It never ceases to amaze me the misconceptions that the term Americana spawns. Like that it is a format that only appeals to gray-hairs, for instance. Here is the definition from the Americana Music Association website:

"Americana is music that honors and is derived from the traditions of American roots music. It is music inspired by American culture traditions which is not only represented in classic man made / roots based sounds but also through new and contemporary artists whose music is clearly inspired by these great traditions."

As we grow the Music Fog presence, we are now seeing a spike in 18-34 year olds. That is exciting news, as it reflects the demographics of attendance at many of the events we cover. And it mirrors the demos of many of the artists we film. And it stands to reason, because if these artists are interested in keeping the roots alive, then maybe, just maybe, their fans might include those of a similar age as well.

Enter Sons Of Bill. Sweet, soulful renderings; and cuties to boot. And hasn't that been the recipe for success for decades? Sex appeal and the ability to touch you with their music? Maybe the rest of the entertainment world is auto-tuning and manipulating. In Americana, the water is pure, the artistry is real. To wit, Rainin' from SOB.

-Jessie

Jefferson Fox "Simpleton"

"...I love you, 'cause it's such a simple song." That's the line that talked us into posting this video on Valentine's Day. But, as you dive into Jefferson Fox's world and music, you'll find that there's room to love him year-round! Pace yourself, though, and start with this great song. Simple, yet layered...and very intimate. There's a wonderful story through the pictures of the video, too.

So, enjoy the song then head over to his website and get to know him more. To quote Jefferson, "Enjoy Valentine's Day, Simpleton, and every moment you have."

-Music Fog Crew