I’m not sure where the Memphis heat went this past week. Honestly, I don’t really care that much because Blues on the Bluff at the Ornamental Metal Museum was frickin’ gorgeous last night. Despite the fourth plague of mosquitoes, everyone enjoyed the annual benefit for WEVL 89.9 FM and the slightly muggy mid-seventies temp was a delightful reprieve to our typical July heat. At dusk, the clouds on the horizon dissipated just enough to reveal a breathtaking sunset over the river. It was an iconic Memphis evening for sure.
This was my first BoB experience, as well as my first trip to the Metal Museum. I was awed by the grounds, scattered with metal works of art great and small. I was amused to see some of the improvised uses people came up with for the art while trying to secure a seat for the show. I guess that’s the upside of making your work out of solid metal – the look-but-don’t-touch rules of art museums are less necessary. It lends to the laid back atmosphere of an outdoor blues concert. Especially one that serves beer provided by Schlafly, the good beer from Missouri.
It put people in a good mood which always helps when raising money for a good cause. The food, provided by Central BBQ, was fantastic as usual. They offered a varied menu to fit all types of dietary styles. The best part is that the beer and food vendors donated all of their profits back to WEVL. Also, there was some crazy person wandering around with a “Donations for WEVL” bucket, offering people a chance to donate without even leaving their seats.
Most exciting was the silent auction happening at the entrance to the event. A large variety of local artists and businesses donated all sorts of fun things for people to bid on. There were some beautiful jewelry pieces by The Celtic Cat Silver Designs up for bid. Underground Art of Cooper Young had multiple tattoo sessions offered for music lovers to immortalize 2014 with. From an antique railroad map to a Whole Foods gift basket, there was something for just about everyone to ponder over.
My personal favorite was the Electra Classic Cruiser donated by the Peddler Bike Shop. This baby blue bike would suit any stylish woman going about her business in Memphis. It features a basket, bell, and lights for nighttime riding. After two entries, I was outbid in the last 30 minutes. I was tempted to go higher in a third bid, but I decided that paying my utilities next month is something I should really take care of. Oh well, maybe next year!
Even if you weren’t on the Bluff for hot deals on local schwag, the concert was a thrilling experience. The opening act lighting up the stage around 6:30PM was The Garry Burnside Band. This ensemble got everyone in the mood for blues with their jazzy rendition of Memphis music. The energy was high as the sun started to settle over the river and people could be seen moving to the music throughout the crowd. I was lucky to get a glimpse of the band from “backstage” so I could appreciate the true joy of these musicians as they jammed together for the first leg of the event.
During the short break, I wandered about the grounds, getting a feel for the best seat in the house. It turns out there is no bad place to hear the music. People mainly congregated on the plaza in front of the stage, bringing their own chairs to stake a claim. Others found the grassy area shaded by trees an ideal spot for summer fun. One group opted for the very back so they’d have room to enjoy their hula hooping fun. I even found a knot of people on the rear of the pavilion, enjoying a private view of the southern Mississippi River. It was a fun group to be a part of. I don’t think anyone had a bad seat in the house.
The second band to hit the stage was The Bo-Keys. This group brings on soul music with a side of funk. A legendary band that can trace its origins back to B.B. King, each of the members contribute their talent to the greater good and everyone at Blues on the Bluff got a taste of fresh Memphis music. After getting the crowd warmed up, they invited vocalist Percy Wiggins to the stage and cranked up the jive. People couldn’t help but start dancing and Mr. Wiggins serenaded everyone through a magnificent sunset.
I was able to scout out the stage area while Blind Mississippi Morris prepared to close out the show. My volunteer shift at the WEVL water table started soon, so I knew this was my last chance to capture the spirit of the blues electrifying the air last night. I was impressed to see that the crowd was not scared off by the dark and everyone stayed until the end of the concert. I suppose it shouldn’t surprise me that the people at a WEVL benefit really are there to hear the music. I was thoroughly impressed with the shindig and can’t wait to see what they plan for next year. The weather might be less pleasant, but I’m sure Blues on the Bluff will still be a rocking place to spend a Saturday in July. I hope to see you there!