Tune In, Turn On
By Doug Deutsch
When you want to hear live rock music in our South Jersey area, there’s usually a number of choices for hearing both original and cover bands every week.
For blues music enthusiasts, however, the choices are a bit slimmer here at the Jersey Shore, both in Atlantic City’s casinos and various nightclubs.
Enter Betsy’s Backyard/Inside Edition, part of an annual concert series presented by area blues enthusiast, Betsy Lynn Paisley.
“Betsy’s Backyard is a gathering of friends, new and old, young and not-so young, for the purpose of listening to music and enjoying a meal together,” said Paisley, a long-time blues music lover and member of Women in Blues, among other professional groups.
“We are lucky enough to get both world-renown traveling and local artists to share the makeshift stage, while two extra-large dogs participate (she laughs. I have seen the dogs up close; they are huge, but lovable and friendly). The musical artists become the focus of our attention and are appreciated for their talent and mostly original songs.”
There’s no TV, no loud conversations but seating times are important,she said.
“Everyone here comes to appreciate the talent being presented. But it is an appreciation of culinary skills and or creativity, too. An early night from beginning to end – 6 to approximately 10:30 p.m.,” Paisley said.
Betsy, who is a regular attendee at events such as the International Blues Challenge in Memphis every January, has featured some big-time artists at her Betsy’s Backyard in the past, including several of my own current and/or past clients such as dynamic New Jersey-based vocalist/keyboardist Eliza Neals.
Her 2024 spring lineup looks to be just as exciting, kicking off with award-winning vocalist, Kat Riggins (pictured) on March 27, with opening act Jim Howell.
The schedule includes: April 9, area favorites Geri Mingori and Jeff Caraway; April 19, North Jersey’s popular Blues People (who were semi finalists at the recent 2024 IBC and have just released a tight new album, “The Skin I’m In,” with special guest, Matrix); April 25, singers/songwriters Brody Bond and Jody McGowan; May 16, national act the Dave Kelller Band, with local musician Chip Rishell opening; May 25, Norman Taylor and Blue Soul along with Jim Howell.
Seating for all shows is always at 6 p.m.; admission is $20 in advance, $25 at the door and includes a potluck dinner, so if you’re planning on attending bring something tasty to eat because you’ll be fed there, too. Contact Betsy Lynn Paisley on Facebook Messenger for tickets and location info. https://www.facebook.com/betsy.paisley/
Remember Jones Does Amy Winehouse at The Claridge: One of the more interesting bookings in Atlantic City this Presidents’ Day weekend (in addition to the awesome Tedeschi Trucks/Little Feat two-night engagement Feb. 16 and 17 at Hard Rock Casino) is “Back To Back to Black: An Amy Winehouse Celebration” at The Claridge’s Celebrity Theatre, featuring enigmatic frontman Remember Jones, reimagining the entire Winehouse album with a 12-piece orchestra.
Jones, no stranger to New Jersey audiences, was recently named “One of the Most Influential Figures in New Jersey” (Asbury Park Press). Ever wonder what Winehouse’s songs might sound like as interpreted by those singing them? Here’s your chance to find out. This event is also the Atlantic City Theatre Company’s Fundraising Gala. Tickets/info: https://atlanticcitytheatrecompany.com/actc-gala-featuring-remember-jones.
Doug is the owner/operator of Doug Deutsch Publicity Services, which since 1995 has been servicing nationally touring acts, and working record release campaigns for clients. Doug also hàs experience writing for the one time shore-based weekly publication, Whoot! He also was a team member with Chip Braymes Advertising. Doug loves bicycling and aspires to bring the Blues to Atlantic City. He can be reached at ShoreLocalDoug@gmail.com and www.facebook.com/dougdeutschpublicity.
