Watson Wire

I’ll Take You There

Tuesday, August 09, 2011 |

I've suggested before that one of my least known attributes is my fine singing voice.  I'm still stunned that there's not more demand for it.
 
As a kid, I had these big old headphones in my bedroom.  I'd crank up the music and sing, improving on the work of the Staple Singers, the Reverend Al Green, the Chi-Lites, Smokey, Aretha, Bill Withers, Billy Paul, Sly and the Family Stone, Gladys Knight and the Pips, and so many others.
 
There was a time when I just knew I could be a Pip.  Some people might argue that I achieved that goal.  But those are mean people who are probably intentionally missing the point.  Even today, I can still sing all of the backup words to Midnight Train to Georgia.  
 
Like a bird.  

I know a place. 

Although my desire has been unrequited, I don't begrudge other people who stand up and sing to large crowds.  So for the past six years, I've put on a concert down at Zilker Park here in Austin and invited all of my friends.  We consistently have around a thousand people having a blast in that great venue.

Ain't nobody crying.

This year, we're having a big night of R&B.  The legendary Mavis Staples is the headliner.  Charles Bradley will open up the night.
 
It's on September 15th.  The sponsor reception begins at 6:30.  The music starts at 8:00.  As usual, we'll have things to eat and stuff to drink.

Respect yourself.

You can RSVP by donating right now.  And, of course, you should.  
 
Click here for all of the details.  Oh, and click here to listen to some music.

If You're Ready (Come Go With Me) 

This event has become a tradition.  It gets better every year.  Don't miss out.