"Drivin' Sideways in Detroit!"
Guitar-Strings 'n things. Methods to my madness.
Howdy friends. It occurred to me recently that the one thing I know most about, I haven’t written about as yet. The guitar. Its methods, means and theory of 'how-to' play it. 'In the modern era, and in the world of 'Guitar-Hero' video gaming, to me it seems the theory of tuning, chords and basic modes of playing has been lost.
Back in the 1970's, the '60's were over and it seemed everyone wanted to pick up a guitar, banjo and even dulcimer, to be the next Jimi Hendrix, Joan Baez, Bob Dylan or Pete Townsend of the Who. The world of music was wide open and I learned to experience many different styles and instruments. At the time, I was playing Lead guitar with Johnny & The Hurricanes. In fact, I was teaching to nearly 70…(yep folks…that’s as in SEVENTY) students a week, both male and female between a young one of 7 and an older gentleman of 75 at my local music store. I wanted to give them all the benefit my knowledge and experience. I don’t know what that speaks of now in 2010, with all the years that past since the 1970's. I guess that makes me qualified. Maybe overly qualified, but here we go.
There is a basic theory I discovered way back to playing lead guitar. In the next few installments, I will address how I learned and how I did it. Some in principle are so easy to understand, I don’t know why others take a lifetime to learn. The 1st method I will address is RELATIVE MINOR THEORY. And believe me. Get THIS…and you can play any lead, by any-body…and in a variety of ways. While listening to the likes of the Allman Brothers, that well-known Southern Rock group of brothers Duane and Greg, I would play along over and over with their long-winded back and forth soloing. (A good few for examples were "In Memory of Elizabeth Reed; "Whippin' Post' "Mountain Jam" "Melissa" and "Ramblin Man"). One day, a light went on in my head. As I was playing your typical "Chuck Berry" "Johnny B. Good" type lead which is usually played over a 7th type R & R 4-bar progression, all of sudden…it worked over a Major AND Minor chord change! Same lead, different chord structure. I was blown away.
Digging out my theory books, I discovered for every Major Key…there is a Relative Minor Key. What that meant in a nutshell is that a major scale could be played OVER a minor key and produce a melodic type lead solo. It had to have occurred to Duane Allman and Dickie Betts on all those recordings. I went back with this thought in mind and doors opened, lightning flashed, and the Gods spoke! I was dumb-founded! On that day, my playing took off in a hundred directions at once. Stardom at that point…if you could call it that, beaconed me onward, and I started getting praise and acclaim and offers too…from heavy weights in Rock and Roll. Bluesman Bo-bo Jenkins, the Famous Coachman, called me the 'wildest white-boy who ever played the slide guitar!' And Waylon Jennings said 'Son? You ARE the guitar!' And Blue Grass-Bill Monroe told me to throw away my electrics and amplifiers and "just play!" All were wonderful to me, and I appreciated the praise and advice. I can attribute it ALL I assure you.. to the simple MAJOR-MINOR theory I will address here over the next few blogs of "Drivin' Sideways in Detroit!" Maybe I ought to call it "PLAYIN SIDEWAYS AROUND THE WORLD OF MUSIC!"
Its all so simple. So if y'all will just stay tuned each week, I will go into examples of songs and lead phrasing so easy…you'll probably KICK yourselves for not coming up with it too! I'll delve into OPEN TUNINGS and some chord diagrams in OPEN as well. But to start off here, I will just say a few words to hint at the direction we'll be goin' in. You can play a MINOR blues scale (examples to follow in weeks to come) over minor chord Blues, and youre playing the blues. Play that same minor blues scale over a MAJOR chord progression, and youre now playing a MELODIC scale form lead solo. Same solo…different chords…and it will sound different. I used this theory with students all the time. Quickly teach a simple blues pattern, show them that key's RELATIVE MAJOR KEY… and off they went. In fact…some went RUNNING! Below, Im listing some keys and their respective RELATIVE MINORS. If you know some blues lead-patterns, try them over some of the RELATIVES. I think you as well will be pleased and hopefully as amazed as I was.
Once we get through these…Ill address some acoustic tunings and ways of playing I learned while down South with all those country acts I backed up and performed with. That too is something everyone who plays should try to grasp. Ill just say this about that. Acoustic guitar has many types and ways of playing. A lot of it can be explained by saying that to get a ringing sound or 'twelve-string' effect, try using SUSPENDED chords, voicings and tunings. And yes…I will include those chord diagrams as well a little farther down the road. So for now lets just say that here are only 13 notes in ALL OF MUSIC EVER WRITTTEN. Bach, the Beatles, Green Day, Amy Winehouse, John Coltrane, Miles Davis or Bill Monroe…everyone of them. Only 13 notes! Below are some keys, and their respective Relatives. Have fun y'all…and drop me any questions or comments.
"Hurricane' Duane, Johnny & The Hurricanes
Relative Major Relative Minor
A F#m
B Gm
C Am
D Bm
E C#m
F Dm
G Em
Monday, November 2, 2009
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
"Walt Disney's Selena (Wizards of Waverly Place) Gomez & Hurricane Duane"
"Walt Disney's Selena (Wizards of Waverly Place) Gomez & Hurricane Duane"
Pretty Things na Girlz, Girlz, Girlz!
*Footnote:
She's cute, talented and 16 years old, and stars in her own weekly show on the Disney Channel. I'm tall with blue eyes, in my fashionable '50's and one foot in the grave! Not really… but I guess we make a strange pair even as friends. She asked my advice once and I gave it you her and of course…with her being 16…she didn't take it. But still, Im glad she bothered to care what I thought. Right or wrong and unclear to me, I just seem to have a way with girls and women of all ages.
I get the MySpacers and Facebooker's from 14 to 104 who flirt up and down. And here at Ford Motors, I get more than a few out of the 1,800 here at World Headquarters that call me everything from "D", to 'sexy' (and that’s a stretch!). They bring me everything from cupcakes to edible arrangements. I don't know what that says about women who do those things. OR about me in general. But hey! I'm a guy! Not that I don’t appreciate it. I do. But that seems to be the least of my problems in life. I've never had any problems hooking up with girls and women of all ages. Been there and done that. But as I mellow out and have cleaned up my act, it doesn’t seem to change the attraction level. But it does prompt me to write some observations I've had for awhile. Being a guy with a still healthy appetite and appreciation for the ladies, this week I thought I'd address an issue that leaves me….and Im sure not only me…shall I say…confused?
It was a changed world for teen and pre-teen girls when Madonna hit the scene. And then it was Britney. All the pre-pubescent girls stared wearing underwear and lingerie OUTSIDE and OVER their clothes, and starting layering up the make-up and jewelry to the max. And all because of Britney and Madonna. So, now its Miley Montana or Hannah Cyrus, whichever you prefer. The young audience pours over every facet of "Hannah Montana", gleaning what they think is cool in the way she acts, dresses and speaks. "Fer-sure! Hurricane Duane say-what?!"(thanks Miley!)
Now-a-days, 10-11-12-13 year old girls are more like 35 in their dress, actions, and expectations of what they THINK they should have, be and do in… and with…their lives. They dress and act like the movies and tv shows they see. They live in a world of fantasy videos, movies, games, Miley Cyrus and Selena Gomez. Watch either of these two talented young ladies…and in general, its hard to tell they are only 15-16 years of age.
Society pushes and pushes the limit of what's considered 'normal' and acceptable, over what SHOULD be normal…and what IS acceptable. The "BRATZ" dolls are made-up, dressed-up and shoved out there to the 7-8-9 year old girls as though they are the norm. They are portrayed as hip and out-for-fun. The real world as we all know, is nothing like that. You need more than 'sex-appeal' to succeed in our world-gone-crazy.
Selena plays a wizard on Disney's "Wizards of Waverly Place". Smart and cute, she at least, has a brain and singing talent to match. Still, she looks and acts like like a 20-something street smart kid who knows it all and has been around the block Actually? Selly (Selena)…what with her friends Miley and Vanessa Hudgens, who both put out some completely inappropriate photos of themselves in underwear and sexy come-hither poses…she at least appears to be grounded. Recently Vanessa's totally naked photo hit the Internet when she was only 15 (and another just a couple weeks ago) .
Its difficult to understand why a lot of young 'tweens' want to be just like them. I guess its ok if you’ve come to that style and way of thinking if you’ve been around enough to know yourself, and what style you feel you fit into. But what about young girls who don’t know where they fit in yet? They often copy the styles, language and bad-sweet-sexy images of those girls in "High School Musical" and the Pussycat Dolls and Christina Aguillera. So what? I'll tell you what. Personally, I'm glad at least they don't emulate Mother Theresa or Joan of Arc!
With the age of female 'maturing' getting younger and younger, at what age do we find it appropriate to act and dress like the 'tween' female entertainers and the Pussycat Dolls? Is there one? There have been many shows of late about Beauty Pageant Mothers who push their tiny daughters into a world of glitz and glamour they can not possibly be ready for. And true…probably to fill some void…not in the daughter, but some unfulfilled dream of the mother. To look at them, you'd never know. And to most guys, we cant tell by a photo, and admittedly? We can get just as overly-stimulated by a made up pre-teen as much as we can for an older lady or woman. Of course, this too makes the hormones wink and tug. No matter what age she really is. Does that make us letches? And there-in is the problem. Girls trying to…and successfully at that…look and act like they are much older.
They LOOK of age….so why not? And its somewhere between lost-and-found that the young ones push it to look even older, and the boys and men drool and imagine things they shouldn’t be thinking of. Been there myself…guilty as charged. This creates a HUGE problem with identity. Both for the girls trying to look older, and the guys looking at them like they ARE older. It’s a no-win situation for both.
Several years back, a very close young lady friend of mine (still) turned17, and I was struck by the fact that she was street-wise beyond her years, and had a lot of 'experience' already in the teen party scene at her school. She, like many other girls, took to wearing really fancy Victoria's Secret lingerie around age 14. Seeing that she already partied and drank some, I suspected she was a whole lot more experienced with other stuff as well. I had mentioned to her how old she made me feel! "Wow kid! I really do feel old around you now! You've done a lot! You grew up fast! Man, are you a wild-child! And a few times, I covered for you when you came in stoned". Her response to me? "Huh? Hey Duane! You think Im wild NOW?! You shoulda seen me when I WAS 13!" I about fell over because I WAS there at that time in her life and was covering for her, getting her inside and upstairs before Mom and Dad found out what condition she was in!
Sigh…so will the boys ever catch up to the girls at this rate? Will the boys ever go thru the same thing? Or are they destined to continue clue-less regarding the opposite sex? Will it be ok for a 13 year old girl going on 40 something, to go out with a 20 or 30-something young man? Where will all this end for the youth of today? In India, they have arranged marriages between 3 and 4 year olds. I hope it doesn’t come to that being accepted. But, the way the world is pushing young girls to jump right into "adult-hood' if you can call it that…we are headed for disaster. Its becoming so that almost anything is acceptable to do, say or wear. And put that pink lingere on Miley, and all the malls around the world have a fast run on pink lingerie. If she can wear that……well! Then the image machine has done its work. It has changed the perception of all the girls enthralled with the further adventures of "Hannah Montana". And so…they continue to dress like her and want to be just like her. Honestly? It would be better if they didn’t race ahead by way of Fredricks of Hollywood, Abercrombie & Finch and Lovers Lane.
Girls grow up way too fast these days, and theres all kinds of time left at age 12-13 to find your 'style', and what your'e into. Theres no rush. Time should be held close so that one can be a 'kid'…not 'jailbait in heels', or a 'slutty-ho'. It’s a shame that innocence can be lost by what kind of music they listen to, what it implies, and the fact that they all want to emulate the next 'tween Disney Star'.
Hum! That’s funny! The actors in High School Musical are all in their 20's now…and still, the young 8-9-10 year old girls fall over themselves trying to look like just like them…who themselves are paid to act and to look like teens! (Zak Efron is 22 and still playing a 17 year old. And the fans somehow believe he's still in High School!) Still, I'll always wonder. Just how old ARE those girls in the mall? I sure cant tell. And there-in lies the problem. If only they would see it that way. Theres time left to try and experiment with new things, ideas and clothes. And it should be more important for them to understand WHY they are copying the young stars today.
One of the girls from 'High School Musicals 1-2 and 3' has said regarding the papparazi:
"We have all these like 40 year old guys following us girls around all the time. Yuk! It's gross!" Well? Maybe she shouldn’t have posted that totally nude photo of herself at 15! I don’t think though they'll go back to the way teenagers were in the past. It's just a different world now. I wonder where it will all end? Good or bad, right or wrong, we'll still flip a channel, open a magazine, and turn our heads at them all. Thank God we've still got eyes! And frankly? If mine ever go on me…I'm joinin' a monastery! "Cause I KNOW I'm probably gonna burn in hell!
Please pass the sunscreen! Until next time my friends! "Hurricane" Duane
*Special Thanks to Selena and Demi Lovato, Pegasus, Stacy, Melissa, Michelle, Miley, Linda, Vanessa and Laura. You all ROCK m' WORLD!! Please hold the Viagra and pass the Geritol! Seriously...much love to you all Ladies! Always….Duane
Pretty Things na Girlz, Girlz, Girlz!
*Footnote:
She's cute, talented and 16 years old, and stars in her own weekly show on the Disney Channel. I'm tall with blue eyes, in my fashionable '50's and one foot in the grave! Not really… but I guess we make a strange pair even as friends. She asked my advice once and I gave it you her and of course…with her being 16…she didn't take it. But still, Im glad she bothered to care what I thought. Right or wrong and unclear to me, I just seem to have a way with girls and women of all ages.
I get the MySpacers and Facebooker's from 14 to 104 who flirt up and down. And here at Ford Motors, I get more than a few out of the 1,800 here at World Headquarters that call me everything from "D", to 'sexy' (and that’s a stretch!). They bring me everything from cupcakes to edible arrangements. I don't know what that says about women who do those things. OR about me in general. But hey! I'm a guy! Not that I don’t appreciate it. I do. But that seems to be the least of my problems in life. I've never had any problems hooking up with girls and women of all ages. Been there and done that. But as I mellow out and have cleaned up my act, it doesn’t seem to change the attraction level. But it does prompt me to write some observations I've had for awhile. Being a guy with a still healthy appetite and appreciation for the ladies, this week I thought I'd address an issue that leaves me….and Im sure not only me…shall I say…confused?
It was a changed world for teen and pre-teen girls when Madonna hit the scene. And then it was Britney. All the pre-pubescent girls stared wearing underwear and lingerie OUTSIDE and OVER their clothes, and starting layering up the make-up and jewelry to the max. And all because of Britney and Madonna. So, now its Miley Montana or Hannah Cyrus, whichever you prefer. The young audience pours over every facet of "Hannah Montana", gleaning what they think is cool in the way she acts, dresses and speaks. "Fer-sure! Hurricane Duane say-what?!"(thanks Miley!)
Now-a-days, 10-11-12-13 year old girls are more like 35 in their dress, actions, and expectations of what they THINK they should have, be and do in… and with…their lives. They dress and act like the movies and tv shows they see. They live in a world of fantasy videos, movies, games, Miley Cyrus and Selena Gomez. Watch either of these two talented young ladies…and in general, its hard to tell they are only 15-16 years of age.
Society pushes and pushes the limit of what's considered 'normal' and acceptable, over what SHOULD be normal…and what IS acceptable. The "BRATZ" dolls are made-up, dressed-up and shoved out there to the 7-8-9 year old girls as though they are the norm. They are portrayed as hip and out-for-fun. The real world as we all know, is nothing like that. You need more than 'sex-appeal' to succeed in our world-gone-crazy.
Selena plays a wizard on Disney's "Wizards of Waverly Place". Smart and cute, she at least, has a brain and singing talent to match. Still, she looks and acts like like a 20-something street smart kid who knows it all and has been around the block Actually? Selly (Selena)…what with her friends Miley and Vanessa Hudgens, who both put out some completely inappropriate photos of themselves in underwear and sexy come-hither poses…she at least appears to be grounded. Recently Vanessa's totally naked photo hit the Internet when she was only 15 (and another just a couple weeks ago) .
Its difficult to understand why a lot of young 'tweens' want to be just like them. I guess its ok if you’ve come to that style and way of thinking if you’ve been around enough to know yourself, and what style you feel you fit into. But what about young girls who don’t know where they fit in yet? They often copy the styles, language and bad-sweet-sexy images of those girls in "High School Musical" and the Pussycat Dolls and Christina Aguillera. So what? I'll tell you what. Personally, I'm glad at least they don't emulate Mother Theresa or Joan of Arc!
With the age of female 'maturing' getting younger and younger, at what age do we find it appropriate to act and dress like the 'tween' female entertainers and the Pussycat Dolls? Is there one? There have been many shows of late about Beauty Pageant Mothers who push their tiny daughters into a world of glitz and glamour they can not possibly be ready for. And true…probably to fill some void…not in the daughter, but some unfulfilled dream of the mother. To look at them, you'd never know. And to most guys, we cant tell by a photo, and admittedly? We can get just as overly-stimulated by a made up pre-teen as much as we can for an older lady or woman. Of course, this too makes the hormones wink and tug. No matter what age she really is. Does that make us letches? And there-in is the problem. Girls trying to…and successfully at that…look and act like they are much older.
They LOOK of age….so why not? And its somewhere between lost-and-found that the young ones push it to look even older, and the boys and men drool and imagine things they shouldn’t be thinking of. Been there myself…guilty as charged. This creates a HUGE problem with identity. Both for the girls trying to look older, and the guys looking at them like they ARE older. It’s a no-win situation for both.
Several years back, a very close young lady friend of mine (still) turned17, and I was struck by the fact that she was street-wise beyond her years, and had a lot of 'experience' already in the teen party scene at her school. She, like many other girls, took to wearing really fancy Victoria's Secret lingerie around age 14. Seeing that she already partied and drank some, I suspected she was a whole lot more experienced with other stuff as well. I had mentioned to her how old she made me feel! "Wow kid! I really do feel old around you now! You've done a lot! You grew up fast! Man, are you a wild-child! And a few times, I covered for you when you came in stoned". Her response to me? "Huh? Hey Duane! You think Im wild NOW?! You shoulda seen me when I WAS 13!" I about fell over because I WAS there at that time in her life and was covering for her, getting her inside and upstairs before Mom and Dad found out what condition she was in!
Sigh…so will the boys ever catch up to the girls at this rate? Will the boys ever go thru the same thing? Or are they destined to continue clue-less regarding the opposite sex? Will it be ok for a 13 year old girl going on 40 something, to go out with a 20 or 30-something young man? Where will all this end for the youth of today? In India, they have arranged marriages between 3 and 4 year olds. I hope it doesn’t come to that being accepted. But, the way the world is pushing young girls to jump right into "adult-hood' if you can call it that…we are headed for disaster. Its becoming so that almost anything is acceptable to do, say or wear. And put that pink lingere on Miley, and all the malls around the world have a fast run on pink lingerie. If she can wear that……well! Then the image machine has done its work. It has changed the perception of all the girls enthralled with the further adventures of "Hannah Montana". And so…they continue to dress like her and want to be just like her. Honestly? It would be better if they didn’t race ahead by way of Fredricks of Hollywood, Abercrombie & Finch and Lovers Lane.
Girls grow up way too fast these days, and theres all kinds of time left at age 12-13 to find your 'style', and what your'e into. Theres no rush. Time should be held close so that one can be a 'kid'…not 'jailbait in heels', or a 'slutty-ho'. It’s a shame that innocence can be lost by what kind of music they listen to, what it implies, and the fact that they all want to emulate the next 'tween Disney Star'.
Hum! That’s funny! The actors in High School Musical are all in their 20's now…and still, the young 8-9-10 year old girls fall over themselves trying to look like just like them…who themselves are paid to act and to look like teens! (Zak Efron is 22 and still playing a 17 year old. And the fans somehow believe he's still in High School!) Still, I'll always wonder. Just how old ARE those girls in the mall? I sure cant tell. And there-in lies the problem. If only they would see it that way. Theres time left to try and experiment with new things, ideas and clothes. And it should be more important for them to understand WHY they are copying the young stars today.
One of the girls from 'High School Musicals 1-2 and 3' has said regarding the papparazi:
"We have all these like 40 year old guys following us girls around all the time. Yuk! It's gross!" Well? Maybe she shouldn’t have posted that totally nude photo of herself at 15! I don’t think though they'll go back to the way teenagers were in the past. It's just a different world now. I wonder where it will all end? Good or bad, right or wrong, we'll still flip a channel, open a magazine, and turn our heads at them all. Thank God we've still got eyes! And frankly? If mine ever go on me…I'm joinin' a monastery! "Cause I KNOW I'm probably gonna burn in hell!
Please pass the sunscreen! Until next time my friends! "Hurricane" Duane
*Special Thanks to Selena and Demi Lovato, Pegasus, Stacy, Melissa, Michelle, Miley, Linda, Vanessa and Laura. You all ROCK m' WORLD!! Please hold the Viagra and pass the Geritol! Seriously...much love to you all Ladies! Always….Duane
Sunday, September 20, 2009
The Future of SOUL...and beyond.
"Drivin' Sideways in Detroit!"
With "Johnny & The Hurricanes"
Hurricane Duane Thomas
"The Future of 'Soul' music…and beyond."
One of Motown Records best known producer/engineers Russ Terrana has stumbled on some unknown and un-released Jackson 5 material, and has gotten busy editing it from the hard drive files for release. It ought to be amazing and well-timed after the un-timely passing of our beloved Michael recently. If there is anyone who can do it justice, it's Russ. Some of Motown's greatest recordings were at his hands. We can only wait anxiously in anticipation for that which the world has never heard, nor even knew existed. This brings to my mind a question. That which WAS before, like the bird the PHOENIX, shall rise again from the ashes to fly again. But, what does this mean for this 'new' Jackson's material?
One has only to wonder with something certainly not old, and by the very nature of it's newly discovered existence…'new'…what is it really? For sure it is the Jacksons many years ago, and although un-released, it is them and their sound from way back...and when it's released finally…it will be 'new'. Again! So this I question as to what IS the future of SOUL? It seems certain that what goes around, comes around again and again. But, does this make it 'new'? And, if not? Then what does that make it? Can we really re-create something so original as 'SUGAR PIE HONEY BUNCH' or "WHAT'S GOIN ON?" Or even "FINGERTIPS PART 2…or 7?" You have to wonder (no pun intended Stevie!)
But, I suppose if a brand new generation or generations of listeners get exposed to this wonderful music for the 1st time in their lives…then truly it is 'new'. But does 'SOUL' itself change? And if it does…does it change that far off the beaten path as to be very different than that which went before? I don't know. But to a new audience, and some of us old-timers as well…its like the re-birth of a nation. One we lived and breathed for over and over again. And still…it is to rise again.
For sure, the younger generation will have the chance to see and feel what made us love the music like we did and still do today. The only difference is they will not be able to 'live' it as we did. We danced to it, we played it, and we lived our lives through the turbulence of the 60's and the hippies and the riots in Watts, Detroit and Chicago. This thankfully, is something they won't have to relive. But it was because of those things along with inner city strife and suburban upheaval we experienced "SOUL" music for what it was and meant to us all. And ALL of us felt and experienced many different things and meanings and we took away from it whatever we each did in our own worlds. And dis-similar as this was, this brought us closer together. Black, white, yellow, brown and all colors in between…we loved the music and all it stood for.
I'm not sorry that the newer listeners and lovers of 'SOUL" don't have to go through what we did and how we did it. But, in that one instance, that will be something they can never understand without having gone through it themselves. We felt the music, and we lived it to. And we anxiously waited for the newest Temptations or Stevie or Diana's next song…yet the SOUND never really changed. Somehow, I feel that when Russ is done with the newest (or OLDEST) Jackson's material…it won't really be new…or old. It is what it is. And it was what it was. The more things change…the more they stay the same. And for that, I'm glad.
For without the Motown of old…there could be no Motown of the future. I don't think music itself could change that much anyway. Playing guitar and keys my whole life…its always the same chords. Different keys, similar structures, but always much the same. There are only 13 notes in all the music ever written. Of course, that would combinations of 13 to the 13th power. 13 x 13 x 13 x 13 etc…for 13 times. So, much has been written, yet so much is vastly different too. Its this anticipation that keeps us loving the sounds, groups and songs that we do.
So…you GO Russ! We all can't wait!
Peace 'n Love n' Light All…….God Bless
"Hurricane" Duane
www.drivinsidewaysindetroit.blogspot.com
duanethomas@johnnyandthehurricanes.com
With "Johnny & The Hurricanes"
Hurricane Duane Thomas
"The Future of 'Soul' music…and beyond."
One of Motown Records best known producer/engineers Russ Terrana has stumbled on some unknown and un-released Jackson 5 material, and has gotten busy editing it from the hard drive files for release. It ought to be amazing and well-timed after the un-timely passing of our beloved Michael recently. If there is anyone who can do it justice, it's Russ. Some of Motown's greatest recordings were at his hands. We can only wait anxiously in anticipation for that which the world has never heard, nor even knew existed. This brings to my mind a question. That which WAS before, like the bird the PHOENIX, shall rise again from the ashes to fly again. But, what does this mean for this 'new' Jackson's material?
One has only to wonder with something certainly not old, and by the very nature of it's newly discovered existence…'new'…what is it really? For sure it is the Jacksons many years ago, and although un-released, it is them and their sound from way back...and when it's released finally…it will be 'new'. Again! So this I question as to what IS the future of SOUL? It seems certain that what goes around, comes around again and again. But, does this make it 'new'? And, if not? Then what does that make it? Can we really re-create something so original as 'SUGAR PIE HONEY BUNCH' or "WHAT'S GOIN ON?" Or even "FINGERTIPS PART 2…or 7?" You have to wonder (no pun intended Stevie!)
But, I suppose if a brand new generation or generations of listeners get exposed to this wonderful music for the 1st time in their lives…then truly it is 'new'. But does 'SOUL' itself change? And if it does…does it change that far off the beaten path as to be very different than that which went before? I don't know. But to a new audience, and some of us old-timers as well…its like the re-birth of a nation. One we lived and breathed for over and over again. And still…it is to rise again.
For sure, the younger generation will have the chance to see and feel what made us love the music like we did and still do today. The only difference is they will not be able to 'live' it as we did. We danced to it, we played it, and we lived our lives through the turbulence of the 60's and the hippies and the riots in Watts, Detroit and Chicago. This thankfully, is something they won't have to relive. But it was because of those things along with inner city strife and suburban upheaval we experienced "SOUL" music for what it was and meant to us all. And ALL of us felt and experienced many different things and meanings and we took away from it whatever we each did in our own worlds. And dis-similar as this was, this brought us closer together. Black, white, yellow, brown and all colors in between…we loved the music and all it stood for.
I'm not sorry that the newer listeners and lovers of 'SOUL" don't have to go through what we did and how we did it. But, in that one instance, that will be something they can never understand without having gone through it themselves. We felt the music, and we lived it to. And we anxiously waited for the newest Temptations or Stevie or Diana's next song…yet the SOUND never really changed. Somehow, I feel that when Russ is done with the newest (or OLDEST) Jackson's material…it won't really be new…or old. It is what it is. And it was what it was. The more things change…the more they stay the same. And for that, I'm glad.
For without the Motown of old…there could be no Motown of the future. I don't think music itself could change that much anyway. Playing guitar and keys my whole life…its always the same chords. Different keys, similar structures, but always much the same. There are only 13 notes in all the music ever written. Of course, that would combinations of 13 to the 13th power. 13 x 13 x 13 x 13 etc…for 13 times. So, much has been written, yet so much is vastly different too. Its this anticipation that keeps us loving the sounds, groups and songs that we do.
So…you GO Russ! We all can't wait!
Peace 'n Love n' Light All…….God Bless
"Hurricane" Duane
www.drivinsidewaysindetroit.blogspot.com
duanethomas@johnnyandthehurricanes.com
Saturday, May 9, 2009
Interview from Tokyo! "A minute with "Hurricane" Duane Thomas" of Johnny & The Hurricane's.
Interview from Tokyo!
"A minute with "Hurricane" Duane Thomas" of Johnny & The Hurricane's.
With Interviewer Isaki Tumuchi, Tokyo, Japan May 2009
*The following interview is at times in both Japanese and English. Translations are where possible.
*LA/H.Shelter Crew/USA
Isaki: "Konnichiwa Duane!"
Duane: "Minasan konnichiwa!" (Hello everybody!)
Isaki: "O-genki desu ka Duane?" (How are you Duane?)
Duane: "O kagesama de genki desu! O hisashiburi desu ne!" (I'm fine thanks! How are you? Long time no see!)
Isaki: "Nihongo o hanashimasu ka? (Do you speak Japanese?) My English is no too good, as is your Japanese is better!
Duane: "Hai, hanashimasu" (Yes…a little). Actually, one of my Stage managers gave me a phrase they said I should learn 1st. It was " Watashi no hobākurafuto wa unagi de ippai desu". They were messin' with me. It means something like "My boat is full of eels!" And I fell for it. Well…Im sure we can understand each other one way or the other! You speak English fine!
Isaki: "Johnny has died and you alone make his music live?
Duane: "No Isaki. John made the music. I just inherited it and all else with Sonja his wife. His music belongs to him alone."
Isaki: "Very fortunate to have 2 people dedicated to his Hurricanes and your music."
Duane: "Thanks. Ive been very blessed. Johnny's life story hopes to be a major motion picture very soon. It's authored by Sonja Paris and myself from his diaries and musical history books. Anyone interested in the beginnings of Rock & Roll music, will love "SAX MAN"."
Isaki: "We love "Beatnik Fly" and "Red River Rock" and the others here in Japan. Its almost new music to us. But, no singing!?"
Duane: "Ha ha! You mean you can't do Karaoke to us! Well…that’s one strike against us!"
Isaki: "NO Please! In Japan, this twist-surf music from America has always been played here. It is…I mean… you are… very important musicians to us here!"
Duane: "Thank you for that. Im only one part of a 50 year legacy.
I do find it odd that here I am in Tokyo, when in the mid-1980's, Johnny and the entire group was placed on a 747 to Japan all alone, and under house arrest by your country!"
Isaki: "We arrested the Hurricanes! Japan arrested you? For what? Why?"
Duane: "Yep. Sure did ! Seems the papers were not in order so they put us into separate rooms away from our instruments for 5 days until the Embassy could straighten it all out."
Isaki: "I think I feel you joke with me here, right?"
Duane: "No Joke my friend. It really happened!"
Isaki: "That was then and now…we hear your music still everywhere, all the time, everyplace."
Duane: "Oh! So YOURE the guys downloading us from ITUNES! Seriously Isaki…we receive royalties from around the world every quarter, and we do still sell 1,000's of sales units in Asia all the time. Its constant. Even China."
Isaki: "I read that an Anthology for the music is coming out? Will it have all 9 or 10 of the hits on it?"
Duane: "We have over 60 tunes and hits on the Anthology now. What will remain when it hits…who knows? But, Johnny & The Hurricanes have over 100 songs published worldwide thru BMI. We have a song in the movie "TRAINS, PLANES & AUTOMOBILES" with Steve Martin and John Candy. The same song is also in Episode #74 of "The Sopranos". That was one big royalty check!"
Isaki: "It did make the Hurricanes very wealthy with those hits, no?"
Duane: "Not in the old days. We were shafted for most of the money. Its in the book. I cant discuss any current figures…but lets just say the one payment for The Sopranos was about a years salary for some blue-collar workers back in the states. It veries from little and into thousands each and every quarter. We never know until one of the lawyers calls either from Sweden, LA or New York and tells us they made a deposit. Now that I think of it…they always call when there a balance on the legal fees!"
Isaki: "We in Japan too know how important is intellectual properties. Stories, words, music and plays. We love your Hurricanes music and wish you could come play for us!"
Duane: "Well…anythings possible except getting the Hurricanes back together. Some original members are still alive. But as long as Johnny stays dead…there will never be another performance by the group. You COULD get ME over here! (Looking out the station window) There seems to be an over-abundance of young ladies, girls, women and a few guys even out there. Fans are always so nice. And we still have a huge fan base here and around the world."
Isaki: "You see how many fans still like your BEATNIK FLY and CROSSFIRE."
Duane: "Well, if today is any indication…Im glad the 2 Security men with me are big enough! I was swamped at the airport, approached at the Hotel, gave an autograph to the taxi driver, and have been waving at all these cute little ladies all day. (Waving out to the street where one sign reads "We love RED RIVER ROCK & THE HURRICANES!" WE LOVE HURRICANE DUANE!) I don’t know whether to blush or laugh!"
Isaki: "I saw that. Not surprising at all. Many Japanese fans ask for the Hurricanes music. Many emails we received about you coming today."
Duane: "That’s real nice! I had surgery recently and woke up in the damn OR and the Nurses were asking me for autographs! In post-op surgery no less! Here I was half-unconcious, and scribbling with a pen I couldnt hold!"
Isaki: "On No! Surgery? Are you alright now?"
Duane: For today yes, but really? Im not sure Isaki. Found something…took it out…found something else…and so the journey continues. Either way, Im fine with things. Ive been blessed in my life. Had a wonderful woman after High School, and I ruined it bad. Tried it again with someone else, and it was a big mistake as well. So, you learn and move on. Hopefully for the better."
Isaki: "Anata wa kekkon shite imasu ka? (Are you married?)You not married now again still, yes?"
Duane: (Laughing) Oh no, Im very much happily married and have been together over 23 years. She is 10 years younger than I. I'd like to think she keeps me young, and I bring her up a little bit. She is a fine Videographer of musical groups and events. Shes done hundreds of them. All kinds of famous people. And then theres Lucky."
Isaki: "You named child LUCKY?"
Duane: (Laughing again) "Might as well be my child. He's a 15 pound Schnoodle. He
does tricks…backflips and things. And he loves walks. He takes ME on them all the time.
And he takes my spot in bed."
Isaki: "Maybe it is you are gone for Hurricanes too much often?"
Duane: "Between me an Officers at Ford Motor Company, Atila Records and The Hurricanes Shelter Offices in Phoenix, Michigan and Perrysburg Ohio…Throw in a few foreign country stops and….Im gone so much from home…every time I DO get in…Lucky pees on MY leg!"
Isaki: " Sumimasen, chotto o-tazune shimasu ? (Excuse me. Can I ask you something?) So, the Hurricanes music Anthology is out. The book is out as well? And, you are here now for promotions and some interviews right? No playing?"
Duane: "No, not in Japan as yet. I will be performing at some summer festivals in downtown Detroit in a few weeks. There are 3 really, really fine groups Im guesting with."
Isaki "And about the book?"
Duane: "Here is the story on that. Johnny passed and left the diaries to Sonja his wife. Sonja and I cleaned, sold and moved all of 50 years of files, music, equipment, records…a school bus, van and a Cessna Airplane...cleaned and auctioned the estate out, and began and eventually finished "SAX MAN" Johnny Paris's life story. We're hoping for a major motion picture instead. If that happens…the book may never come out. You'd have to go see the movie!"
Isaki: "Gokoūn o inorimasu!"(Good Luck!)
Duane: "Domo arigato." (Thank you!)
Isaki: "We will always love to dance and listen many times to the Hurricanes happy music!'
Duane: "Sumimasen!(Excuse me!) Please Isaki! It is and forever will be only JOHNNY & the Hurricanes. Without John, there will never be another group. Some members tried, but we shut 'em down. I have shut down videos from Youtube and sites like it anytime we hear or see something on the group. WE own the rights. WE own the trademark and the copyrights. And only WE grant permission to use. And I almost never grant that. And we have lawyers here and in the Uk and Europe. All with very large snapping teeth! Enough people have stolen from John and the group over the years, and it stops now. Enough."
Isaki: "Very honorable. Good. You still are a Motown family member too?"
Duane: "Yes I am. Many famous artists, engineers, producers and big names… fans too…belong to SOULFUL DETROIT FORUMS. I am a senior member and a "ZENITH"…which is top of the line in respect and honor. We all are a big happy family of Motown Records and of Soul supporters. I have many many famous friends…the key word being 'friends'...because, bottom line…we are all the same there, and deserve equal respect."
Isaki: "It has been a pleasure Mr. Hurricane to learn about the music and where it is going to. Are you making any new music for yourself?"
Duane: 'Actually, yes I am. I'm in the studio daily. Cleaning up my late friend and brothers Master tapes and…"
Isaki: "I heard about…Paul is it? Passing away, yes?"
Duane: "Yes. Im lost without him after everyday of 43 years. We were closer than brothers. We were almost the same person…but Im moving on with my own music again. My agents, and stage managers more or less ordered me to leave Pauls stuff be, and move on. Since I love, know and trust them…Im doing what they suggest."
ISaki: "Hurricane Duane makes new Hurricane Music!"
Duane "No! Not anything like the hits. Ive several coming out that will be available. One is "The In Crowd", not mine but by Mitchel Musso…and another by me called (obviously) "Hurricane's a comin''…and a third Christian song called
"Isn’t it amazing what a prayer can do?!"
Isaki: "Sir! So busy! And you have normal job!"
Duane: "With that, Im fortunate. Im the Supervisor of around16 Officers and ensure the safety of over 2,500 employees in the Ford Motors WHQ. I work shifts when and however I assign, but am on call for any and everything regarding building management issues 24/7 everyday, 7 days a week. Again, I love my job and Regent Court WHQ."
Isaki: " Doko ka iki tai tokoro wa ari masu ka? (Is there anyplace you'd like to go?)
Duane: (Laughing) "Yes! To bed! I have jet lag so bad, I think my body is still back in Detroit!"
Isaki: "Itsu modotte ki masu ka?" (When are you going back?)
Duane: " Asatte ie ni kaeri masu" (Im returning the day after tomorrow.) God willing, sometime soon I hope Ill be back to see you all. Right now Im coasting thru due to my health. But, Ill be ok…and Ill be back one day. Hey! Book me a concert here in Tokyo or Kyoto!"
Isaki: "Doma arigato Hurricane! Gokoūn o inorimasu " (Thank you Hurricane. Good Luck!)
Duane: "Thanks Isaki. (Waving to the girls in the street below the station) Jā mata ne!"(See you later!)
Peace and Love…Always! You know? Never ever let the music die! God Bless!"
May 9th, 2009 Isaki Tumuchi, Tokyo, Japan
"A minute with "Hurricane" Duane Thomas" of Johnny & The Hurricane's.
With Interviewer Isaki Tumuchi, Tokyo, Japan May 2009
*The following interview is at times in both Japanese and English. Translations are where possible.
*LA/H.Shelter Crew/USA
Isaki: "Konnichiwa Duane!"
Duane: "Minasan konnichiwa!" (Hello everybody!)
Isaki: "O-genki desu ka Duane?" (How are you Duane?)
Duane: "O kagesama de genki desu! O hisashiburi desu ne!" (I'm fine thanks! How are you? Long time no see!)
Isaki: "Nihongo o hanashimasu ka? (Do you speak Japanese?) My English is no too good, as is your Japanese is better!
Duane: "Hai, hanashimasu" (Yes…a little). Actually, one of my Stage managers gave me a phrase they said I should learn 1st. It was " Watashi no hobākurafuto wa unagi de ippai desu". They were messin' with me. It means something like "My boat is full of eels!" And I fell for it. Well…Im sure we can understand each other one way or the other! You speak English fine!
Isaki: "Johnny has died and you alone make his music live?
Duane: "No Isaki. John made the music. I just inherited it and all else with Sonja his wife. His music belongs to him alone."
Isaki: "Very fortunate to have 2 people dedicated to his Hurricanes and your music."
Duane: "Thanks. Ive been very blessed. Johnny's life story hopes to be a major motion picture very soon. It's authored by Sonja Paris and myself from his diaries and musical history books. Anyone interested in the beginnings of Rock & Roll music, will love "SAX MAN"."
Isaki: "We love "Beatnik Fly" and "Red River Rock" and the others here in Japan. Its almost new music to us. But, no singing!?"
Duane: "Ha ha! You mean you can't do Karaoke to us! Well…that’s one strike against us!"
Isaki: "NO Please! In Japan, this twist-surf music from America has always been played here. It is…I mean… you are… very important musicians to us here!"
Duane: "Thank you for that. Im only one part of a 50 year legacy.
I do find it odd that here I am in Tokyo, when in the mid-1980's, Johnny and the entire group was placed on a 747 to Japan all alone, and under house arrest by your country!"
Isaki: "We arrested the Hurricanes! Japan arrested you? For what? Why?"
Duane: "Yep. Sure did ! Seems the papers were not in order so they put us into separate rooms away from our instruments for 5 days until the Embassy could straighten it all out."
Isaki: "I think I feel you joke with me here, right?"
Duane: "No Joke my friend. It really happened!"
Isaki: "That was then and now…we hear your music still everywhere, all the time, everyplace."
Duane: "Oh! So YOURE the guys downloading us from ITUNES! Seriously Isaki…we receive royalties from around the world every quarter, and we do still sell 1,000's of sales units in Asia all the time. Its constant. Even China."
Isaki: "I read that an Anthology for the music is coming out? Will it have all 9 or 10 of the hits on it?"
Duane: "We have over 60 tunes and hits on the Anthology now. What will remain when it hits…who knows? But, Johnny & The Hurricanes have over 100 songs published worldwide thru BMI. We have a song in the movie "TRAINS, PLANES & AUTOMOBILES" with Steve Martin and John Candy. The same song is also in Episode #74 of "The Sopranos". That was one big royalty check!"
Isaki: "It did make the Hurricanes very wealthy with those hits, no?"
Duane: "Not in the old days. We were shafted for most of the money. Its in the book. I cant discuss any current figures…but lets just say the one payment for The Sopranos was about a years salary for some blue-collar workers back in the states. It veries from little and into thousands each and every quarter. We never know until one of the lawyers calls either from Sweden, LA or New York and tells us they made a deposit. Now that I think of it…they always call when there a balance on the legal fees!"
Isaki: "We in Japan too know how important is intellectual properties. Stories, words, music and plays. We love your Hurricanes music and wish you could come play for us!"
Duane: "Well…anythings possible except getting the Hurricanes back together. Some original members are still alive. But as long as Johnny stays dead…there will never be another performance by the group. You COULD get ME over here! (Looking out the station window) There seems to be an over-abundance of young ladies, girls, women and a few guys even out there. Fans are always so nice. And we still have a huge fan base here and around the world."
Isaki: "You see how many fans still like your BEATNIK FLY and CROSSFIRE."
Duane: "Well, if today is any indication…Im glad the 2 Security men with me are big enough! I was swamped at the airport, approached at the Hotel, gave an autograph to the taxi driver, and have been waving at all these cute little ladies all day. (Waving out to the street where one sign reads "We love RED RIVER ROCK & THE HURRICANES!" WE LOVE HURRICANE DUANE!) I don’t know whether to blush or laugh!"
Isaki: "I saw that. Not surprising at all. Many Japanese fans ask for the Hurricanes music. Many emails we received about you coming today."
Duane: "That’s real nice! I had surgery recently and woke up in the damn OR and the Nurses were asking me for autographs! In post-op surgery no less! Here I was half-unconcious, and scribbling with a pen I couldnt hold!"
Isaki: "On No! Surgery? Are you alright now?"
Duane: For today yes, but really? Im not sure Isaki. Found something…took it out…found something else…and so the journey continues. Either way, Im fine with things. Ive been blessed in my life. Had a wonderful woman after High School, and I ruined it bad. Tried it again with someone else, and it was a big mistake as well. So, you learn and move on. Hopefully for the better."
Isaki: "Anata wa kekkon shite imasu ka? (Are you married?)You not married now again still, yes?"
Duane: (Laughing) Oh no, Im very much happily married and have been together over 23 years. She is 10 years younger than I. I'd like to think she keeps me young, and I bring her up a little bit. She is a fine Videographer of musical groups and events. Shes done hundreds of them. All kinds of famous people. And then theres Lucky."
Isaki: "You named child LUCKY?"
Duane: (Laughing again) "Might as well be my child. He's a 15 pound Schnoodle. He
does tricks…backflips and things. And he loves walks. He takes ME on them all the time.
And he takes my spot in bed."
Isaki: "Maybe it is you are gone for Hurricanes too much often?"
Duane: "Between me an Officers at Ford Motor Company, Atila Records and The Hurricanes Shelter Offices in Phoenix, Michigan and Perrysburg Ohio…Throw in a few foreign country stops and….Im gone so much from home…every time I DO get in…Lucky pees on MY leg!"
Isaki: " Sumimasen, chotto o-tazune shimasu ? (Excuse me. Can I ask you something?) So, the Hurricanes music Anthology is out. The book is out as well? And, you are here now for promotions and some interviews right? No playing?"
Duane: "No, not in Japan as yet. I will be performing at some summer festivals in downtown Detroit in a few weeks. There are 3 really, really fine groups Im guesting with."
Isaki "And about the book?"
Duane: "Here is the story on that. Johnny passed and left the diaries to Sonja his wife. Sonja and I cleaned, sold and moved all of 50 years of files, music, equipment, records…a school bus, van and a Cessna Airplane...cleaned and auctioned the estate out, and began and eventually finished "SAX MAN" Johnny Paris's life story. We're hoping for a major motion picture instead. If that happens…the book may never come out. You'd have to go see the movie!"
Isaki: "Gokoūn o inorimasu!"(Good Luck!)
Duane: "Domo arigato." (Thank you!)
Isaki: "We will always love to dance and listen many times to the Hurricanes happy music!'
Duane: "Sumimasen!(Excuse me!) Please Isaki! It is and forever will be only JOHNNY & the Hurricanes. Without John, there will never be another group. Some members tried, but we shut 'em down. I have shut down videos from Youtube and sites like it anytime we hear or see something on the group. WE own the rights. WE own the trademark and the copyrights. And only WE grant permission to use. And I almost never grant that. And we have lawyers here and in the Uk and Europe. All with very large snapping teeth! Enough people have stolen from John and the group over the years, and it stops now. Enough."
Isaki: "Very honorable. Good. You still are a Motown family member too?"
Duane: "Yes I am. Many famous artists, engineers, producers and big names… fans too…belong to SOULFUL DETROIT FORUMS. I am a senior member and a "ZENITH"…which is top of the line in respect and honor. We all are a big happy family of Motown Records and of Soul supporters. I have many many famous friends…the key word being 'friends'...because, bottom line…we are all the same there, and deserve equal respect."
Isaki: "It has been a pleasure Mr. Hurricane to learn about the music and where it is going to. Are you making any new music for yourself?"
Duane: 'Actually, yes I am. I'm in the studio daily. Cleaning up my late friend and brothers Master tapes and…"
Isaki: "I heard about…Paul is it? Passing away, yes?"
Duane: "Yes. Im lost without him after everyday of 43 years. We were closer than brothers. We were almost the same person…but Im moving on with my own music again. My agents, and stage managers more or less ordered me to leave Pauls stuff be, and move on. Since I love, know and trust them…Im doing what they suggest."
ISaki: "Hurricane Duane makes new Hurricane Music!"
Duane "No! Not anything like the hits. Ive several coming out that will be available. One is "The In Crowd", not mine but by Mitchel Musso…and another by me called (obviously) "Hurricane's a comin''…and a third Christian song called
"Isn’t it amazing what a prayer can do?!"
Isaki: "Sir! So busy! And you have normal job!"
Duane: "With that, Im fortunate. Im the Supervisor of around16 Officers and ensure the safety of over 2,500 employees in the Ford Motors WHQ. I work shifts when and however I assign, but am on call for any and everything regarding building management issues 24/7 everyday, 7 days a week. Again, I love my job and Regent Court WHQ."
Isaki: " Doko ka iki tai tokoro wa ari masu ka? (Is there anyplace you'd like to go?)
Duane: (Laughing) "Yes! To bed! I have jet lag so bad, I think my body is still back in Detroit!"
Isaki: "Itsu modotte ki masu ka?" (When are you going back?)
Duane: " Asatte ie ni kaeri masu" (Im returning the day after tomorrow.) God willing, sometime soon I hope Ill be back to see you all. Right now Im coasting thru due to my health. But, Ill be ok…and Ill be back one day. Hey! Book me a concert here in Tokyo or Kyoto!"
Isaki: "Doma arigato Hurricane! Gokoūn o inorimasu " (Thank you Hurricane. Good Luck!)
Duane: "Thanks Isaki. (Waving to the girls in the street below the station) Jā mata ne!"(See you later!)
Peace and Love…Always! You know? Never ever let the music die! God Bless!"
May 9th, 2009 Isaki Tumuchi, Tokyo, Japan
Monday, March 16, 2009
"Risin' from the ashes!!'
"DRIVIN' SIDEWAYS IN DETROIT!" is BACK!!!!!
By Johnny & The Hurricanes "Hurricane" Duane Thomas
"RED RIVER ROCK" JOHNNY & THE HURRICANE'S Duane Thomas cruises the Motor City, America and the World at large. The 60's! The '70's! To TODAY!
duanethomas@johnnyandthehurricanes.com
March 16th, 2009
"Risin' from the ashes!"
Howdy boys n girls! Whew! Ive been gone since October of 2008. 6 months flies by quicker than a cop-car headin' to a donut-shop!
Well, its been a crazy few months, and I haven’t lost my mind yet! But, I think I'm workin' on it. Johnny & The Hurricanes relocated out West, but still maintains offices here in the Northeastern USA. We went on ITUNES with 6 albums…2 of which were Johnny & The Hurricanes LIVE! At the STAR CLUB in Hamburg Germany, and we released "SAX MAN"…never before released song and title of our coming book.
Movie talk is flying around…and we're optimistic.
I just keep rolling with the things that come my way every day, and try to keep a straight line between me and my objectives (and trying to keep a straight face!) And sometimes, thats hard. What-with the economy, and pressures of work, home and family…at times…Ive felt consumed by all I need to do, and when I need to do it by. And, a brief hospital stay knocked the wind from my sails…and when I looked up? I found that someone had removed them as well! So, there I sat for a hot-minute, circling with my boat around and around. But, that doesn’t mean Ive lost focus. Hardly! And in fact? Its just the opposite.
Im usually bothered by all things timely and scheduled, but, even so. I always get my work done. Here at Ford Motor Company, I have mass confusion and directives and orders and reports…well…you get the idea. And, don’t get me wrong. I love my job, and am grateful for it. Even with all the daily deadlines. Its just sometimes I think…"WOW! I could-a had-a V8!" But in reality, Im lucky to get to stop long enough. I just cant drop the ball and go runnin'. (Although, I did get an interesting possibility in sessions down in Nashville today. We'll see about that!)
So now, though Im still doing interviews, web-sites and business of Johnny & The Hurricanes, myself, "Drivin' Sideways in Detroit", and developing a coming L.L.C. company before summer, publishing one book, and finishing up another…Im back. Well, in theory anyway. I never left…just couldn’t find the time. And frankly? I STILL haven’t got the time…but Ive got a lot to say…so, keep up! I will post regularly again, and of course… let everyone know where and when so you all can follow me, "SAX MAN" and Johnny & The Hurricanes!
This year is proving to be awesome. With the 50th Anniversary of 'RED RIVER ROCK', and the release of the ITUNES albums and single, movie talk and the like…Im just hoping to hang on for the ride. I hope y'all will stay with me? Theres a lot of room in the back-seat!
Much Love all…"Hurricane" Duane "The Kid"
Drop us a word or two at: duanethomas@johnnyandthehurricanes.com … and if you haven’t yet…add us to your MySpace!
We love you all! HDT
*www.myspace.com/duanethomas1
*www.myspace.com/johnnyandthehurricanes
By Johnny & The Hurricanes "Hurricane" Duane Thomas
"RED RIVER ROCK" JOHNNY & THE HURRICANE'S Duane Thomas cruises the Motor City, America and the World at large. The 60's! The '70's! To TODAY!
duanethomas@johnnyandthehurricanes.com
March 16th, 2009
"Risin' from the ashes!"
Howdy boys n girls! Whew! Ive been gone since October of 2008. 6 months flies by quicker than a cop-car headin' to a donut-shop!
Well, its been a crazy few months, and I haven’t lost my mind yet! But, I think I'm workin' on it. Johnny & The Hurricanes relocated out West, but still maintains offices here in the Northeastern USA. We went on ITUNES with 6 albums…2 of which were Johnny & The Hurricanes LIVE! At the STAR CLUB in Hamburg Germany, and we released "SAX MAN"…never before released song and title of our coming book.
Movie talk is flying around…and we're optimistic.
I just keep rolling with the things that come my way every day, and try to keep a straight line between me and my objectives (and trying to keep a straight face!) And sometimes, thats hard. What-with the economy, and pressures of work, home and family…at times…Ive felt consumed by all I need to do, and when I need to do it by. And, a brief hospital stay knocked the wind from my sails…and when I looked up? I found that someone had removed them as well! So, there I sat for a hot-minute, circling with my boat around and around. But, that doesn’t mean Ive lost focus. Hardly! And in fact? Its just the opposite.
Im usually bothered by all things timely and scheduled, but, even so. I always get my work done. Here at Ford Motor Company, I have mass confusion and directives and orders and reports…well…you get the idea. And, don’t get me wrong. I love my job, and am grateful for it. Even with all the daily deadlines. Its just sometimes I think…"WOW! I could-a had-a V8!" But in reality, Im lucky to get to stop long enough. I just cant drop the ball and go runnin'. (Although, I did get an interesting possibility in sessions down in Nashville today. We'll see about that!)
So now, though Im still doing interviews, web-sites and business of Johnny & The Hurricanes, myself, "Drivin' Sideways in Detroit", and developing a coming L.L.C. company before summer, publishing one book, and finishing up another…Im back. Well, in theory anyway. I never left…just couldn’t find the time. And frankly? I STILL haven’t got the time…but Ive got a lot to say…so, keep up! I will post regularly again, and of course… let everyone know where and when so you all can follow me, "SAX MAN" and Johnny & The Hurricanes!
This year is proving to be awesome. With the 50th Anniversary of 'RED RIVER ROCK', and the release of the ITUNES albums and single, movie talk and the like…Im just hoping to hang on for the ride. I hope y'all will stay with me? Theres a lot of room in the back-seat!
Much Love all…"Hurricane" Duane "The Kid"
Drop us a word or two at: duanethomas@johnnyandthehurricanes.com … and if you haven’t yet…add us to your MySpace!
We love you all! HDT
*www.myspace.com/duanethomas1
*www.myspace.com/johnnyandthehurricanes
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
"The Last Hurricane" a bit about Duane....
"HURRICANE" DUANE THOMAS
* Musician, Performer, Producer and Session Musician.
* Lead Guitar, Piano-Organ-Synthesizer
*“JOHNNY & The HURRICANES"
Lead Guitarist-Vocals/Keyboards/Group
Archivist/Website Administrator
* "HEE-HAW" Television show regular
* Member: DETROIT BLUES CLUB
* SOULFUL DETROIT (MOTOWN) MUSIC FORUM
* DETROIT FREE PRESS FORUM
* Co-author: "SAX MAN"
JOHNNY PARIS Biography of JOHNNY & THE HURRICANES
* Author: 40 + "DRIVIN' SIDEWAYS IN DETROIT!”
* Author: "PANGIA. FALCOR & THE LOST CRYSTAL".
DUANE THOMAS CURRENTLY MENTIONED:
*"THE ROAD THROUGH MOTOWN"
Ralph Terrana (Motown Records)
*“GHOSTS of ANN ARBOR”
Michelle Uptergrove.
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
"THE LAST HURRICANE"
A Brief Biography of Hurricane Duane Thomas
by Lazlo Farnsworth, London UK
©2008
As a young teen in the early 1960's, Duane played in many garage bands, and then in large Motown-style horn show bands, often with two drummers. He played sock hops, dances, Quintecerias, Bar & Bat Mitzvahs, Teen clubs and Fraternity and Sorority parties at the Universities of Michigan State, Eastern, Ohio, Bowling Green, Central, Western Michigan and University of Michigan and University of Detroit, including some teen TV shows.
*Duane: "We learned out in those garages and basements every new style as it happened. That’s how I grew. I went from 50's Rock and Roll to Soul music. During the Detroit riots, everything changed. All types of music and styles were on radios everywhere. We had to keep up. Now, they just buy a compilation of tunes, knock out a couple, and go from there. I think something important was lost in that method of learning."
Duane has recorded, performed, toured and produced many International and National Recording stars. Some regional groups include "The Radicals", "System", "The Royalists", "Soul Penetrators", "New Reign”, "Sound and Fury", "Southern Comfort", “The Flying Squirrels”, “The Limit”, “Blue Acid”, “Dreamcatcher” and "Hunter-Thomas". By 1973, Duane was a 20-year-old guitar teacher in Dearborn, Michigan.
*Duane: "While teaching in a music store, I was approached to play guitar in Johnny and The Hurricanes. I thought it was a joke. At 1st I was kind of shocked, then overwhelmed AND surprised! I stayed for about a year."
Duane has played and toured with too many groups to mention them all, but include Waylon Jennings (Dukes of Hazzard), Bob Lumen (Rainy Day Women) Sammi Smith (Help me make it through the night). Duane also fronted the groups "Duane Thomas & Melanie Marie Show" in Miami, Florida, "Earthstar” a 9-piece R & B horn group in Florence, South Carolina; and “The Duane Thomas Group” from Coral Gables, Florida, working the hotel and Show-Club circuit.
*Duane: "After about 1981-2, things just exploded for me. I didnt know where I was from minute to minute. Country, town, plane or train...I just didnt stop. And with Johnny and The Hurricanes business and "SAX MAN"s release...I don't expect to slow down any time soon either. The interviews and touring are beginning again in earnest. Really and truely, I am blessed."
Being a songwriter, guitarist, keyboardist and Lead Vocalist as well, Duane became the Associate Television Producer of the "RON DENER SHOW" Channel 51 Ft. Lauderdale Florida, and a Video Producer and Booking Agent for RAINBOW PRODUCTIONS in Wisconsin.
*Duane: "Those early music videos were some of the 1st in the world for VHI and others, long before they were popular. In all, I've done well over 35 music videos and many more commercials for radio and television."
By mid-2001, and after retiring with a family leave from the University of Michigan Hospital, he produced and co-wrote the album "DREAMCATCHER" with Leah Winslett, also filling both spots as Lead Guitarist and Musical Director of her touring group. Around that time, Duane also filmed and produced 5 shows at Detroit's Auto-Rama, and a Pepsi Commercial for the Detroit market.
*Duane: "How I ended up in 2006 with Sonja Paris and back with Johnny and The Hurricanes some 30 years after I left the group, even I'm not sure! John passed away, and a simple call of condolence went out, and then…pop! There I was. After pairing up to author "SAX MAN", it was only Sonja and I left standing representing the group after some 50 years of Johnny & The Hurricanes. Ever since, I've been referred to by friends, fans and in print as "Hurricane"-Duane Thomas or "The Last Hurricane." (Note: To this day he's still called by some the nickname Johnny gave him back in '73 "The Kid".) L.F.
Currently, Hurricane Duane is doing radio and television interviews in addition to web-casts around the world in support of the release of "SAX MAN", and finishing his next book "SPIRITS IVE KNOWN...AND A FEW I DIDNT!" As well, he's preparing for the release of some old, new and original music, from both the Hurricanes and himself.
As the Security Supervising Officer in charge of the REGENT COURT BUILDING-FORD WORLD HEADQUARTERS in Dearborn, Michigan, he resides there with his wife Laura and the Wonder Dog "LUCKY".
L.F./Lazlo Farnsworth London Independant, UK ©2008
"SAX MAN" THE AMAZING LIFE STORY OF "SAX MAN" JOHNNY PARIS, JOHNNY & THE HURRICANES
& THE BIRTH OF ROCK & ROLL! By SONJA PARIS & "HURRICANE" DUANE THOMAS
"To write about such an extraordinary man, in extraordinary times in Rock and Roll history, "SAX MAN" has become much more than any ordinary novel. With this true story of "SAX MAN" Johnny Paris, the Birth of Rock and Roll, and the creation of 50 years of his musical legacy called Johnny and The Hurricanes, his struggles personally, musically and legally, came to center stage almost immediately after he passed from this world, into the one of Legend.
From Johnny's poor and troubled youth as John Pocisk in small town Ohio, up personal ladders and over musical bridges, through dark tunnels and royalty minefields, "SAX MAN" couldn't be anything other than an accurate representation of the truth. It was the very Birth of Rock and Roll, and the Day the Music Died. "SAX MAN" portrays the real-life story of Johnny Paris, Johnny and The Hurricanes, American Bandstand, The Beatles, bad deals, hit records, hookers and Red Light Districts. His was a poor childhood, and a personality hidden, from even his closest friends and family.
From "Red River Rock" and black-listing, to a devastating divorce, a life abroad, and to a new and true love found…"SAX MAN" is his story. From the detailed pages of his diaries, to interviews both recent and historical, to memories of famous Entertainers, childhood friends, fans and former band mates alike, to his personal life with his wife, the life of Johnny Paris is now told. One would be hard pressed to invent a life story as amazing as his!" COMING 2009
SONJA PARIS & "HURRICANE" DUANE THOMAS "SAX MAN" ©2008
* Musician, Performer, Producer and Session Musician.
* Lead Guitar, Piano-Organ-Synthesizer
*“JOHNNY & The HURRICANES"
Lead Guitarist-Vocals/Keyboards/Group
Archivist/Website Administrator
* "HEE-HAW" Television show regular
* Member: DETROIT BLUES CLUB
* SOULFUL DETROIT (MOTOWN) MUSIC FORUM
* DETROIT FREE PRESS FORUM
* Co-author: "SAX MAN"
JOHNNY PARIS Biography of JOHNNY & THE HURRICANES
* Author: 40 + "DRIVIN' SIDEWAYS IN DETROIT!”
* Author: "PANGIA. FALCOR & THE LOST CRYSTAL".
DUANE THOMAS CURRENTLY MENTIONED:
*"THE ROAD THROUGH MOTOWN"
Ralph Terrana (Motown Records)
*“GHOSTS of ANN ARBOR”
Michelle Uptergrove.
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
"THE LAST HURRICANE"
A Brief Biography of Hurricane Duane Thomas
by Lazlo Farnsworth, London UK
©2008
As a young teen in the early 1960's, Duane played in many garage bands, and then in large Motown-style horn show bands, often with two drummers. He played sock hops, dances, Quintecerias, Bar & Bat Mitzvahs, Teen clubs and Fraternity and Sorority parties at the Universities of Michigan State, Eastern, Ohio, Bowling Green, Central, Western Michigan and University of Michigan and University of Detroit, including some teen TV shows.
*Duane: "We learned out in those garages and basements every new style as it happened. That’s how I grew. I went from 50's Rock and Roll to Soul music. During the Detroit riots, everything changed. All types of music and styles were on radios everywhere. We had to keep up. Now, they just buy a compilation of tunes, knock out a couple, and go from there. I think something important was lost in that method of learning."
Duane has recorded, performed, toured and produced many International and National Recording stars. Some regional groups include "The Radicals", "System", "The Royalists", "Soul Penetrators", "New Reign”, "Sound and Fury", "Southern Comfort", “The Flying Squirrels”, “The Limit”, “Blue Acid”, “Dreamcatcher” and "Hunter-Thomas". By 1973, Duane was a 20-year-old guitar teacher in Dearborn, Michigan.
*Duane: "While teaching in a music store, I was approached to play guitar in Johnny and The Hurricanes. I thought it was a joke. At 1st I was kind of shocked, then overwhelmed AND surprised! I stayed for about a year."
Duane has played and toured with too many groups to mention them all, but include Waylon Jennings (Dukes of Hazzard), Bob Lumen (Rainy Day Women) Sammi Smith (Help me make it through the night). Duane also fronted the groups "Duane Thomas & Melanie Marie Show" in Miami, Florida, "Earthstar” a 9-piece R & B horn group in Florence, South Carolina; and “The Duane Thomas Group” from Coral Gables, Florida, working the hotel and Show-Club circuit.
*Duane: "After about 1981-2, things just exploded for me. I didnt know where I was from minute to minute. Country, town, plane or train...I just didnt stop. And with Johnny and The Hurricanes business and "SAX MAN"s release...I don't expect to slow down any time soon either. The interviews and touring are beginning again in earnest. Really and truely, I am blessed."
Being a songwriter, guitarist, keyboardist and Lead Vocalist as well, Duane became the Associate Television Producer of the "RON DENER SHOW" Channel 51 Ft. Lauderdale Florida, and a Video Producer and Booking Agent for RAINBOW PRODUCTIONS in Wisconsin.
*Duane: "Those early music videos were some of the 1st in the world for VHI and others, long before they were popular. In all, I've done well over 35 music videos and many more commercials for radio and television."
By mid-2001, and after retiring with a family leave from the University of Michigan Hospital, he produced and co-wrote the album "DREAMCATCHER" with Leah Winslett, also filling both spots as Lead Guitarist and Musical Director of her touring group. Around that time, Duane also filmed and produced 5 shows at Detroit's Auto-Rama, and a Pepsi Commercial for the Detroit market.
*Duane: "How I ended up in 2006 with Sonja Paris and back with Johnny and The Hurricanes some 30 years after I left the group, even I'm not sure! John passed away, and a simple call of condolence went out, and then…pop! There I was. After pairing up to author "SAX MAN", it was only Sonja and I left standing representing the group after some 50 years of Johnny & The Hurricanes. Ever since, I've been referred to by friends, fans and in print as "Hurricane"-Duane Thomas or "The Last Hurricane." (Note: To this day he's still called by some the nickname Johnny gave him back in '73 "The Kid".) L.F.
Currently, Hurricane Duane is doing radio and television interviews in addition to web-casts around the world in support of the release of "SAX MAN", and finishing his next book "SPIRITS IVE KNOWN...AND A FEW I DIDNT!" As well, he's preparing for the release of some old, new and original music, from both the Hurricanes and himself.
As the Security Supervising Officer in charge of the REGENT COURT BUILDING-FORD WORLD HEADQUARTERS in Dearborn, Michigan, he resides there with his wife Laura and the Wonder Dog "LUCKY".
L.F./Lazlo Farnsworth London Independant, UK ©2008
"SAX MAN" THE AMAZING LIFE STORY OF "SAX MAN" JOHNNY PARIS, JOHNNY & THE HURRICANES
& THE BIRTH OF ROCK & ROLL! By SONJA PARIS & "HURRICANE" DUANE THOMAS
"To write about such an extraordinary man, in extraordinary times in Rock and Roll history, "SAX MAN" has become much more than any ordinary novel. With this true story of "SAX MAN" Johnny Paris, the Birth of Rock and Roll, and the creation of 50 years of his musical legacy called Johnny and The Hurricanes, his struggles personally, musically and legally, came to center stage almost immediately after he passed from this world, into the one of Legend.
From Johnny's poor and troubled youth as John Pocisk in small town Ohio, up personal ladders and over musical bridges, through dark tunnels and royalty minefields, "SAX MAN" couldn't be anything other than an accurate representation of the truth. It was the very Birth of Rock and Roll, and the Day the Music Died. "SAX MAN" portrays the real-life story of Johnny Paris, Johnny and The Hurricanes, American Bandstand, The Beatles, bad deals, hit records, hookers and Red Light Districts. His was a poor childhood, and a personality hidden, from even his closest friends and family.
From "Red River Rock" and black-listing, to a devastating divorce, a life abroad, and to a new and true love found…"SAX MAN" is his story. From the detailed pages of his diaries, to interviews both recent and historical, to memories of famous Entertainers, childhood friends, fans and former band mates alike, to his personal life with his wife, the life of Johnny Paris is now told. One would be hard pressed to invent a life story as amazing as his!" COMING 2009
SONJA PARIS & "HURRICANE" DUANE THOMAS "SAX MAN" ©2008
Thursday, October 2, 2008
"SAX MAN" is COMING 2009
From "Hurricane" Duane Thomas, Co-Author of "SAX MAN"-Lead Guitarist/Johnny and The Hurricanes
"To write about such an extraordinary man, in extraordinary times in Rock and Roll history, "SAX MAN" has become much more than any ordinary novel. With this true story of "SAX MAN" Johnny Paris, the Birth of Rock and Roll, and the creation of 50 years of his musical legacy called Johnny and The Hurricanes, his struggles personally, musically and legally, came to center stage almost immediately after he passed from this world, into the one of Legend.
From Johnny's poor and troubled youth as John Pocisk in small town Ohio, up personal ladders and over musical bridges, through dark tunnels and royalty minefields, "SAX MAN" couldn't be anything other than an accurate representation of the truth. It was the very Birth of Rock and Roll, and the Day the Music Died. "SAX MAN" portrays the real-life story of Johnny Paris, Johnny and The Hurricanes, American Bandstand, The Beatles, bad deals, hit records, hookers and Red Light Districts. His was a poor childhood, and a personality hidden, from even his closest friends and family.
From "Red River Rock" and black-listing, to a devastating divorce, a life abroad, and to a new and true love found…"SAX MAN" is his story. From the detailed pages of his diaries, to interviews both recent and historical, to memories of famous Entertainers, childhood friends, fans and former band mates alike, to his personal life with his wife, the life of Johnny Paris is now told. One would be hard pressed to invent a life story as amazing as his!"
"Hurricane" Duane c/o www.myspace.com/duanethomas1
"To write about such an extraordinary man, in extraordinary times in Rock and Roll history, "SAX MAN" has become much more than any ordinary novel. With this true story of "SAX MAN" Johnny Paris, the Birth of Rock and Roll, and the creation of 50 years of his musical legacy called Johnny and The Hurricanes, his struggles personally, musically and legally, came to center stage almost immediately after he passed from this world, into the one of Legend.
From Johnny's poor and troubled youth as John Pocisk in small town Ohio, up personal ladders and over musical bridges, through dark tunnels and royalty minefields, "SAX MAN" couldn't be anything other than an accurate representation of the truth. It was the very Birth of Rock and Roll, and the Day the Music Died. "SAX MAN" portrays the real-life story of Johnny Paris, Johnny and The Hurricanes, American Bandstand, The Beatles, bad deals, hit records, hookers and Red Light Districts. His was a poor childhood, and a personality hidden, from even his closest friends and family.
From "Red River Rock" and black-listing, to a devastating divorce, a life abroad, and to a new and true love found…"SAX MAN" is his story. From the detailed pages of his diaries, to interviews both recent and historical, to memories of famous Entertainers, childhood friends, fans and former band mates alike, to his personal life with his wife, the life of Johnny Paris is now told. One would be hard pressed to invent a life story as amazing as his!"
"Hurricane" Duane c/o www.myspace.com/duanethomas1
Saturday, May 10, 2008
"Zen Master and the Marble"
"Zen Master and the Marble"
*exerpt from "Spirits Ive known...and a few I didnt" by Duane Thomas 2009
While living in Miami many years ago, I met a Zen Master of considerable knowledge. Striking up a friendship was easy. He was a neighbor of sorts who was picking up an orange at the stand on the road. He smiled at me. "Pickin' a good one, huh!?" I said smiling back. "There are no bad ones" he said still smiling. "They are all only oranges". Thus began a brief apprenticeship with Chen So on the principle of Life, Death and Eternity.
Once, I asked him about Death and where we go when we die. With his ever present smile, Chen So reached into the drawer. Pulling out a regular cats eye marble, he motioned me outside. The marble gleamed with cracks and crevises in the hot Florida sun. Raising his arm, he threw the marble as hard as he could at the wall of the deck, where it shattered into a million little glass crystal-like pieces all over the ground. Chen So looked at me and the pieces of shattered glass and asked me "Now. Where did the marble go?" This was easy!" Gone! You broke it!" I laughed. "Into a million little pieces!". "Yes. Yes I did." he responded. "But the marble is STILL a marble as you said...only now in a different form. One in a million pieces perhaps....but still...a marble just as well!"
I understood. We're not there in the grave, or in ashes on a mantle...those are just shells discarded at the time of "going to the light'. Knowing this, I felt better. My loved ones and the loved ones of all of us, wait beside us in another dimension. One we cant see. Like a million little pieces of a broken crystal marble, they are still here! And that even though it doesnt look the same....it still is. Just in another form. And so goes Life into Death into LIfe into Death...and we are never, ever alone!
For those that leave us that we love dearly, never really leave us at all. Love transcends all things, places and time.
Stay well friends.....Duane
http://www. drivinsidewaysindetroit. blogspot. com/
duanethomas@johnnyandthhurricanes.com
Sunday, April 20, 2008
"SAX MAN" and...GOODBYE MIDWEST
SAX MAN" and...GOODBYE MIDWEST.
2 years of research, heartache, pain and strain, and many sleepless nights, were gone. Now, the story of Johnny Paris is told. Handing it off at last, is like a baby you lose. Its the same thing. No more re-interviewing. Not much more additional content...so, it's literally waiting to be born for Johnny, Sonja and myself, into bookstores around the world.
I grabbed my bag as usual in the darkness before work one morning, only to realize I had been carrying that thing all the last 2 years filled with cassettes, files, cd's., records and zip drives, because of the book. I carried it everywhere. And as I watched it head off into the sunset, I was kind of surprised myself that now I could not even add or correct anything anymore, even if I wanted to. It was no longer in my hands. It was a new baby about to be born. But thats not all.
After being based in Germany for many years as well, for the second time in 50 years, Johnny and the Hurricanes are leaving the Midwest. The memory and music of Johnny and The Hurricanes will forever be in the hearts of all his wonderful fans and friends around the world. And when it comes to the business, it will always be 'business as usual", no matter where the home company bases itself. We believe that Johnny is now free. His story has been told. Its time for those who chastised us, to see in themselves the truth we have written, and in fact discovered about our own relationships with John, as they too will understand why he did what he did...and why for so long. We didnt know till after we wrote the book either....
It will be easy to talk about all we've written, transcribed and learned. It's a kind of 'looking back'. We still read parts of it and think 'Wow! Did we write all this? This really happened from Johns diaries?!" We know we did, and it really did come from his own words, tapes and friends. We had become so overwhelmed with people, rock and roll artists, places, dates and times, that we had forgotten just how much and detailed we had been. 500,000 words and over 450 pages, minus the photos. The amount of research was staggering. Now it was done.
PARIS-THOMAS promises that when it comes to Johnny Paris and The Hurricanes, the buck stops here with us. We stand together against the world against all infringers and those who would tarnish the image and legacy Johnny worked hard to protect. My partner Sonja is fiercly protective, and Johnny would be proud how she's stood up to the adversity both here and over in Germany and abroad. I'd like to think he'd be equally as proud of his once Hurricane guitarist, who gave him so much grief on and off stage, way back when. John, I did what I could, as best as I could. You belong to the ages now, right or wrong, good or bad. It was your life and how you lived it. We did not judge.
So, Im off into my own new book I guess. On "SPIRITS I'VE KNOWN, AND A FEW I DIDN'T", I've asked Sonja to write the Forward. So, it all starts anew. Fresh. Original and something to look forward to. Not a rehashing over Rock and Roll dates and times, events and records, but a free-flowing recollection of some of the stranger things, from the stranger meta-physical side, of my long and weaving life.
Maybe now with Johnnys story coming out there...his beginnings, his life with Sonja, and me with my days in the Hurricanes in the book as well....I can finally get a little sleep.....
Hurricane Duane
WWW. JOHNNYANDTHEHURRICANES. COM
PARISTHOMAS@JOHNNYANDTHEHURRICANES.COM
2 years of research, heartache, pain and strain, and many sleepless nights, were gone. Now, the story of Johnny Paris is told. Handing it off at last, is like a baby you lose. Its the same thing. No more re-interviewing. Not much more additional content...so, it's literally waiting to be born for Johnny, Sonja and myself, into bookstores around the world.
I grabbed my bag as usual in the darkness before work one morning, only to realize I had been carrying that thing all the last 2 years filled with cassettes, files, cd's., records and zip drives, because of the book. I carried it everywhere. And as I watched it head off into the sunset, I was kind of surprised myself that now I could not even add or correct anything anymore, even if I wanted to. It was no longer in my hands. It was a new baby about to be born. But thats not all.
After being based in Germany for many years as well, for the second time in 50 years, Johnny and the Hurricanes are leaving the Midwest. The memory and music of Johnny and The Hurricanes will forever be in the hearts of all his wonderful fans and friends around the world. And when it comes to the business, it will always be 'business as usual", no matter where the home company bases itself. We believe that Johnny is now free. His story has been told. Its time for those who chastised us, to see in themselves the truth we have written, and in fact discovered about our own relationships with John, as they too will understand why he did what he did...and why for so long. We didnt know till after we wrote the book either....
It will be easy to talk about all we've written, transcribed and learned. It's a kind of 'looking back'. We still read parts of it and think 'Wow! Did we write all this? This really happened from Johns diaries?!" We know we did, and it really did come from his own words, tapes and friends. We had become so overwhelmed with people, rock and roll artists, places, dates and times, that we had forgotten just how much and detailed we had been. 500,000 words and over 450 pages, minus the photos. The amount of research was staggering. Now it was done.
PARIS-THOMAS promises that when it comes to Johnny Paris and The Hurricanes, the buck stops here with us. We stand together against the world against all infringers and those who would tarnish the image and legacy Johnny worked hard to protect. My partner Sonja is fiercly protective, and Johnny would be proud how she's stood up to the adversity both here and over in Germany and abroad. I'd like to think he'd be equally as proud of his once Hurricane guitarist, who gave him so much grief on and off stage, way back when. John, I did what I could, as best as I could. You belong to the ages now, right or wrong, good or bad. It was your life and how you lived it. We did not judge.
So, Im off into my own new book I guess. On "SPIRITS I'VE KNOWN, AND A FEW I DIDN'T", I've asked Sonja to write the Forward. So, it all starts anew. Fresh. Original and something to look forward to. Not a rehashing over Rock and Roll dates and times, events and records, but a free-flowing recollection of some of the stranger things, from the stranger meta-physical side, of my long and weaving life.
Maybe now with Johnnys story coming out there...his beginnings, his life with Sonja, and me with my days in the Hurricanes in the book as well....I can finally get a little sleep.....
Hurricane Duane
WWW. JOHNNYANDTHEHURRICANES. COM
PARISTHOMAS@JOHNNYANDTHEHURRICANES.COM
Sunday, March 2, 2008
Pt 2 Interview/w Hurricane Duane Thomas
Interviewer: LAZLO FARNSWORTH, London UK (Independent) 1-24-08
*Part 1 may be found on Feb 3rd, 2008, and at the link at the bottom of this page
(Pt 2)
L.F: So, how exactly did you join Johnny and the Hurricanes?
D.T: I was teaching guitar lessons in Dearborn Michigan after High School, and Jerry David, the Hurricanes Bass player came in and asked if I was free.
L.F. That must have been a dream for a young guitarist to be asked to play with such a world famous group, eh?
D.T: Well, all this is in our book, but...it would have been great...if I had any idea WHO Johnny and the Hurricanes were!
L.F: You didnt know who they were?!
D.T: Of course I knew who Johnny Paris was... and his Hurricanes. But, there were so many bands back then. I played in a bunch. Big 12 piece horn Motown type groups to bar band rockers. Right after the '60's, you know? It just never dawned on me I joined THAT Johnny and The Hurricanes. I mean...I just didnt connect the dots. I had played with so many different people and kinds of music. It just went over my head.
L.F: That in itself is amazing! That you didnt know!
D.F: Yeah well...life is sure cut-and-dried simple when you think you nothing EVERYTHING! And, I thought I did at 20-21 years of age.
L.F: I find this really interesting. So...when...I mean...when did you finally..
D.T: Realize what group I had gotten into? Actually? Probably just the last 2 years since John passed away. No, seriously, on stage one night, and after a song was introduced. It's all in the book.
L.F: And so, you stayed how long? Furthermore...why had you left?
D.T: PLEASE buy our book! Its all in there!...I was lead guitarist and vocalist between 1973-late 74. And why I left? John just announced one day, he was spitting up this group(and his hundredth or so version...this is what he did for 45+ years...dump and replace). And I went on to Motown Studios to record a solo album with some Motown alumni and others.
L.F: Really! How did that solo recording come about? Who played on it? Anyone we'd might know?
D.T: Well, I was just tired of the Hurricanes, and wanted to do my own thing. Also...in our book. Ralph Terrana from Rare Earth, the Hurricanes and Motown Exec on piano, Perry Palmer from Bob Seger at the time on drums, Al Zenick from Seger and Bowie on bass, Daniel Gaines on acoustic. Bob Ohlson Motown legend, was my engineer.
L.F: Wow! And what happened?
D.T: Nothing happened. Like a million other groups out there. My originals were Allman Brothers style, and recorded because Capricorn Records down in Macon Georgia, who were handling the Allmans, Marshall Tucker and Charlie Daniels, were interested. And then they werent. Ce la vie.
L.F: As is true for so many out there. I understand you went and relocated to Miami?
D.T: I did. Guitar, amp, wife and dog. Moved to Coral Gables. Beautiful city. Gorgeous. I love that place.
L.F: And you kept playing?
D.T: Yep. Had the Duane Thomas Group with a couple female vocalists. We worked the Holiday Inn circuit and the Miami Beach Hotels, til I got a job coaching models for Charm Modeling Schools of Miami. Mostly women..young..and yes. I got into trouble..but that led me to Assistant Producer of a weekly variety television show in Ft. Lauderdale. So, it was all good. The 70's in Miami were wild times.
L.F: Oh oh! Compared to the '60's?
D.T: Threesomes and swapping were common and accepted back then. Along with the 'recreational" dabbling in mind altering substances. It was a sign of the times.
L.F: And how long did you stay in South Florida?
D.T: Till the end of 1978, and I packed up wife, dog and girlfriend...yeah I know...but remember...threesomes were a thing then..and came back to Detroit.
L.F: Let me see if I understand you. You brought your girlfriend AND your wife back?
D.T: Please! I did it....dont regret it, but wouldnt repeat it. It was just a rock musician and a couple women thing. May we move along?
L.F: Yes, of course. Youve had a very interesting career up until that point! I would love to discuss what the rock scene was like in Detroit in the 1960's. Motown. Bob Seger.
D.T: I'd love to, but that will have to be another time.
L.F: Thank you, why yes. Yes, of course. But maybe you should say not "another time" Duane...perhaps another "BOOK!"
D.T: HA! Oh, God love ya! From your mouth to God's ear...as the saying goes. We have contemplated other books after "SAX MAN", and I as well, have some ideas of my own. But, for now with "SAX MAN" coming, for the forseeable future...I'm just tryin' to put one foot in front of the other everyday, you know? And maybe I can do somebody, somewhere, some good along the way. Tomorrow may not come for all of us.
L.F: Thank you so much Duane! The public can't wait for Johnny's biography to come out. To see the real hidden sides of the history of Rock and Roll, and the story of Johnny Paris.
D.T: Youre most welcome Lazlo. My best to yours.
L.F: Perhaps we could speak again soon?
D.T. Absolutely. But next time in London, at your place..."across the pond". And YOUR'E buying this time!
L.F: Ha ha! Touche' yourself Hurricane Duane! Touche'.
LAZLOW FARNSWORTH 2008
***PART 1: Paste into your browser:
http://drivinsidewaysindetroit.blogspot.com/2008/02/interview-questions-and-answersduane.html
Saturday, February 23, 2008
"The Last Hurricane" The brief tale of the Last One Standing
"The Last Hurricane"
(The brief tale of the "last one standing" of Johnny and The Hurricanes)
You know friends, they say we really don't pick our lot in life...its pre-determined. Interesting. Now part of the business, for the business, of Johnny Paris and his Hurricanes...how I got here, even I would've never believed in the last 30 years since I left the group. After best estimates of over 300 members in the 50 years of John's carreer, somehow, after pairing up with John's widow Sonja, it was only the two of us left standing after he passed. Sonja was the one really standing tall...I just followed around at their house dumfounded and waded through Johns lifetime of mementos. After his home was sold and the estate closed, we concentrated on writing the book from John' own outline and diaries. People took to calling me "Hurricane" Duane.
I was once just the lead guitar player, did my time, left John on good terms and went my way. I never, ever, EVER would have believed I'd be back in the group....representing the group....and essentially I guess, I am the group now. Just me and Sonja. Many former Hurricanes have been interviewed and contributed to Johns book. Many have gone on to bigger stages in the sky. Some refused. And so, I did the best I could, with what I could, and all of the information, master tapes, copyrights, posters, flyers and such that Johnny left. Again, month in and month out... was only me representing the musical interests, career, future book and rights and music of John's to the world AS THE ONLY MEMBER LEFT STILL WITH THE GROUP to this day.
I was overwhelmed, kind of shocked, but surprised as well. I know as Johns guitar player, we had our slight differences on stage. But now, those differences seem small...and Im glad we did remain friends. Often thru all this, Ive felt the weight of the responsiblilites of being the last one on stage. Just like Johnny. He was the last one standing after 50 years. According to his own statement, "There were over 300 Hurricanes!" But there was always only one Johnny. Bandleader, inventor of the talking sax, purveyor of stereo recordings and music videos, he was one for the record books. And now he's in them.
From a young long haired Detroit guitar player, to Atila Records Rep, and Associate Johnny and The Hurricanes, Inc, and Sirius 1 Music Publishing, to his biographer with Sonja...I'm the last Hurricane. So there for the Grace of God and Sonja's wishes, its just me. I wonder if John would have been happy it was me? I used to make him mad on stage during performances. Nothing too bad. But, he'd often frown. I know he never backed down, and stood his ground. "Nothing for free...everybody pays" he would say. That may be a little cold...but it was his way.
So, to all the cut-throat, down and dirty stealers of Johnny and the Hurricanes music and videos around the world...HEADS UP. Johnny's stepped out for now....but WATCH OUT! Theres another band member who stood side by side with Johnny on stage, who is now standing firm in Johnny's place. It came from John. I'll DEFEND that place. If it comes to it..."Katie bar the door...we's gonna fight!" Because....I'm the Last Hurricane.
Peace Out All.....stop by and visit us.
Duane "Hurricane" Thomas
Johnny and the Hurricanes, Inc.
c/o duanethomas@johnnyandthehurricanes.com
www.johnnyandthehurricanes.com
www.myspace.com/johnnyandthehurricanes
www.myspace.com/duanethomas1
www.drivinsidewaysindetroit.blogspot.com
Sunday, February 3, 2008
Interview with "Hurricane" Duane
*Interviewer: LAZLO FARNSWORTH, London 1-24-08
L.F.
Great to meet you finally. I loved Johnny and The Hurricanes, and I love reading your Gooogle Blogger "Drivin' Sideways in Detroit!". It really great. It's been a busy 18 months now since Johnny Paris passed away, right?
D.T.
Thanks for the compliment. Well...you could say Sonja and I have been thrashing around like a couple alligators in a bathtub. Going through all of his things was a nightmare.
L.F.
Did he have a lot of stuff from the Hurricane days?
D.T.
He had saved stuff for 60 years. Loaf of bread reciepts for $.24 cents in 1962...and picture of him and the Beatles..with a grocery list on the back. Bus fares and taxi totals and old train tickets. Contracts, photos, writeups, files, cards, tapes, Masters...you name it...the guy saved it.
L.F.
He probably planned to write his memoirs.
D.T.
He did. He kept a diary and had a general outline, that we followed along with a huge amount of research. And by interviews with former bandmates, school friends, managers such as HORST FASCHER from Hamburg's STAR CLUB who contracted both the Beatles and Johnny and The Hurricanes. Of course, and a lot of important and famous people from the days of the Birth of Rock and Roll. And also outta those darn storage facilities we keep all his things in. I just KNOW Ill never get thru it all. And Ive tried for almost 2 years.
L.F.
I suppose that much available information would be great stuff for a book.
D.T.
Stuff is a good word. Johnnny had stuff for his stuff...stuffed everywhere. We didnt have a clue where to begin.
L.F.
So, how did it begin? The idea for "SAX MAN".
D.T.
It was Johns idea from his outline. And a song he wrote by that name. He always intended to write his biography. Johnnys widow Sonja and I met after his passing, and paired up together. We were an unlikely pair at 1st. A former Hurricane and a grieving widow who hadnt any clue as to how the entertainment business works. I just dove into his stuff, and house, office, file cabinets and locker. There was so much stuff...honestly? I wanted to go out to the cemetery and dig him up and kill him again for leaving all this stuff from his 50+ years with the group! It was a monumental task.
L.F.
This is the 50th anniversay of Johnny and the Hurricanes, correct?
D.T.
It is 50 years since 1958, mere months before "CROSSFIRE" was released, followed by "RED RIVER ROCK", and consequently all the others from early 1959 on. We were named the #1 Instrumental Group in the World in 1959, and Johnny was one of the very 1st to do music videos in 1960..and record in Stereo at Bell Sound in New York...in 1960 no less, years before it was accepted.
L.F.
And you were the lead guitarist and lead vocalist in the mid-seventies?
D.T.
I was. There have been over 300 members in 50 years. I was teaching guitar in Detroit when I was approached to join the group. I was un-impressed and really had no idea it was 'THAT' Johnny and The Hurricanes. One night on stage John announces "And now...our BIGGEST hit...!" I and go "We're the 'REAL' Johnny and The Hurricanes?" Life can sure be simple when youre young and think you know everything...but really know nothing.
L.F.
What was it like in those days playing in front of big audiences? Ill bet it was a blast.
D.T.
I'd tell you...but then I'd have to kill you. You'll have to read the book!
L.F.
I cant wait. I know he lived an amazing life.
D.T.
Johnny was the 1st real American Idol. Girls were fainting at him up there playing sax behind his back. And this was in 1959 yet!
L.F.
Can you give us some hints as to whats in it?
D.T.
Details? No. You'll have to read the book. But, I can tell you this. It the story about a boy who wanted to be an astronaut...but became a superstar instead. Lost masters and song rights, bad deals, The Beatles, American Bandstand, broken relationships and marriage, affairs, Red Light Districts, booze and drugs, and the Birth of Rock and Roll.
L.F.
Amazing, truely amazing. It should be a movie too!
D.T.
We are negotiating that as well as we speak. Book 1st, motion picture to follow. Cross your fingers. Really tho, it all looks very, very good.
L.F.
And you have the website up, and the new MYSPACE pages as well, right?
D.T.
Yep. But we couldnt have done it without the help of the folks here at the Hurricane Shelter. Sonja, Larry Patterson, LA Grizzy, Dale Martin and Lucky the Wonder Dog.
L.F.
I was going to ask you about him!
D.T.
(sigh)Well, you shouldnt. It will all go to his head! He's a tiny black schnoodle who thinks he owns me. Actually..I guess he does in a way. He's the faithful companion thats always there no matter what. Like my wife Laura. Dependable and trustworhty to a fault. I couldnt ever ask for a better family.
L.F.
Thats really great. So, what time-table are you working with for releasing the book? Soon , we hope.
D.T.
It will be. Many issues were left unresolved, but they are now, and the path is clear.
L.F.
We cant wait. Any other projects in the works for you?
D.T.
Im trying to get my brother's stuff out there. He's recovering now from cancer. And there's a great, great group up in New Foundland with a couple of brothers called "FITZ" . Theyre already on a par with the best thats been recorded out there. Very good, very talented. If I cant give them a break, I sure wish someone would. And another friend Roger Banks has a new book out "The BLACK DON JUAN". I'd like to see him succeed. An excellent writer and phenomenal vocalist as well.
L.F.
Wow. And "Drivin' Sideways in Detroit!"? Will it continue?
D.T.
Oh yes, but in video this year. In addition to posting, you'll also be able to watch it on YouTube each Sunday. It's exciting.
L.F.
You ARE busy!
D.T.
Yeah, well as my daddy used to say..."Ill rest when Im dead". Hopefully, that wont be anytime soon.
L.F.
We hope not! Johnny Paris and yourself have brought a lot of great music to the world. Hopefully, more will follow.
D.T.
Thanks. I did an interview once with the Detroit Free Press. And what I said then, hold true now.
L.F.
And what was that?
D.T.
I said that music is reward in itself. Music is universal, music is heart and soul. Music is love. Its a language we all speak, hear and feel.
L.F.
Thank you Mr. Thomas for your time. The world awaits.
D.T.
My pleasure. But, please! No MISTER Thomas. Call me Duane or "Hurricane". Just never call call me late for dinner!
L.F.
Ha, ha! I wont Duane. But youre picking up the tab here!
D.T.
Touche my friend. Touche.
www.myspace.com/duanethomas1
www.myspace.com/johnnyandthehurricanes
www.johnnyandthehurricanes.com
L.F.
Great to meet you finally. I loved Johnny and The Hurricanes, and I love reading your Gooogle Blogger "Drivin' Sideways in Detroit!". It really great. It's been a busy 18 months now since Johnny Paris passed away, right?
D.T.
Thanks for the compliment. Well...you could say Sonja and I have been thrashing around like a couple alligators in a bathtub. Going through all of his things was a nightmare.
L.F.
Did he have a lot of stuff from the Hurricane days?
D.T.
He had saved stuff for 60 years. Loaf of bread reciepts for $.24 cents in 1962...and picture of him and the Beatles..with a grocery list on the back. Bus fares and taxi totals and old train tickets. Contracts, photos, writeups, files, cards, tapes, Masters...you name it...the guy saved it.
L.F.
He probably planned to write his memoirs.
D.T.
He did. He kept a diary and had a general outline, that we followed along with a huge amount of research. And by interviews with former bandmates, school friends, managers such as HORST FASCHER from Hamburg's STAR CLUB who contracted both the Beatles and Johnny and The Hurricanes. Of course, and a lot of important and famous people from the days of the Birth of Rock and Roll. And also outta those darn storage facilities we keep all his things in. I just KNOW Ill never get thru it all. And Ive tried for almost 2 years.
L.F.
I suppose that much available information would be great stuff for a book.
D.T.
Stuff is a good word. Johnnny had stuff for his stuff...stuffed everywhere. We didnt have a clue where to begin.
L.F.
So, how did it begin? The idea for "SAX MAN".
D.T.
It was Johns idea from his outline. And a song he wrote by that name. He always intended to write his biography. Johnnys widow Sonja and I met after his passing, and paired up together. We were an unlikely pair at 1st. A former Hurricane and a grieving widow who hadnt any clue as to how the entertainment business works. I just dove into his stuff, and house, office, file cabinets and locker. There was so much stuff...honestly? I wanted to go out to the cemetery and dig him up and kill him again for leaving all this stuff from his 50+ years with the group! It was a monumental task.
L.F.
This is the 50th anniversay of Johnny and the Hurricanes, correct?
D.T.
It is 50 years since 1958, mere months before "CROSSFIRE" was released, followed by "RED RIVER ROCK", and consequently all the others from early 1959 on. We were named the #1 Instrumental Group in the World in 1959, and Johnny was one of the very 1st to do music videos in 1960..and record in Stereo at Bell Sound in New York...in 1960 no less, years before it was accepted.
L.F.
And you were the lead guitarist and lead vocalist in the mid-seventies?
D.T.
I was. There have been over 300 members in 50 years. I was teaching guitar in Detroit when I was approached to join the group. I was un-impressed and really had no idea it was 'THAT' Johnny and The Hurricanes. One night on stage John announces "And now...our BIGGEST hit...!" I and go "We're the 'REAL' Johnny and The Hurricanes?" Life can sure be simple when youre young and think you know everything...but really know nothing.
L.F.
What was it like in those days playing in front of big audiences? Ill bet it was a blast.
D.T.
I'd tell you...but then I'd have to kill you. You'll have to read the book!
L.F.
I cant wait. I know he lived an amazing life.
D.T.
Johnny was the 1st real American Idol. Girls were fainting at him up there playing sax behind his back. And this was in 1959 yet!
L.F.
Can you give us some hints as to whats in it?
D.T.
Details? No. You'll have to read the book. But, I can tell you this. It the story about a boy who wanted to be an astronaut...but became a superstar instead. Lost masters and song rights, bad deals, The Beatles, American Bandstand, broken relationships and marriage, affairs, Red Light Districts, booze and drugs, and the Birth of Rock and Roll.
L.F.
Amazing, truely amazing. It should be a movie too!
D.T.
We are negotiating that as well as we speak. Book 1st, motion picture to follow. Cross your fingers. Really tho, it all looks very, very good.
L.F.
And you have the website up, and the new MYSPACE pages as well, right?
D.T.
Yep. But we couldnt have done it without the help of the folks here at the Hurricane Shelter. Sonja, Larry Patterson, LA Grizzy, Dale Martin and Lucky the Wonder Dog.
L.F.
I was going to ask you about him!
D.T.
(sigh)Well, you shouldnt. It will all go to his head! He's a tiny black schnoodle who thinks he owns me. Actually..I guess he does in a way. He's the faithful companion thats always there no matter what. Like my wife Laura. Dependable and trustworhty to a fault. I couldnt ever ask for a better family.
L.F.
Thats really great. So, what time-table are you working with for releasing the book? Soon , we hope.
D.T.
It will be. Many issues were left unresolved, but they are now, and the path is clear.
L.F.
We cant wait. Any other projects in the works for you?
D.T.
Im trying to get my brother's stuff out there. He's recovering now from cancer. And there's a great, great group up in New Foundland with a couple of brothers called "FITZ" . Theyre already on a par with the best thats been recorded out there. Very good, very talented. If I cant give them a break, I sure wish someone would. And another friend Roger Banks has a new book out "The BLACK DON JUAN". I'd like to see him succeed. An excellent writer and phenomenal vocalist as well.
L.F.
Wow. And "Drivin' Sideways in Detroit!"? Will it continue?
D.T.
Oh yes, but in video this year. In addition to posting, you'll also be able to watch it on YouTube each Sunday. It's exciting.
L.F.
You ARE busy!
D.T.
Yeah, well as my daddy used to say..."Ill rest when Im dead". Hopefully, that wont be anytime soon.
L.F.
We hope not! Johnny Paris and yourself have brought a lot of great music to the world. Hopefully, more will follow.
D.T.
Thanks. I did an interview once with the Detroit Free Press. And what I said then, hold true now.
L.F.
And what was that?
D.T.
I said that music is reward in itself. Music is universal, music is heart and soul. Music is love. Its a language we all speak, hear and feel.
L.F.
Thank you Mr. Thomas for your time. The world awaits.
D.T.
My pleasure. But, please! No MISTER Thomas. Call me Duane or "Hurricane". Just never call call me late for dinner!
L.F.
Ha, ha! I wont Duane. But youre picking up the tab here!
D.T.
Touche my friend. Touche.
www.myspace.com/duanethomas1
www.myspace.com/johnnyandthehurricanes
www.johnnyandthehurricanes.com
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