The Rundown

On Oct. 25, the citizens of Chickasaw in North Mobile County, or as we like to say NoMo, celebrated Founder’s Day with a parade and many other activities, one of which was honoring one of their beloved sons, Ray Sawyer. Not only was this musician given the key to the city, but he was also honored with a street donning his name.

Sawyer achieved fame fronting and playing guitar with Dr. Hook and the Medicine Show. This band made their musical mark in the ‘70s writing songs with the legendary Shel Silverstein and turning out hits such as “Freaker’s Ball,” “Sylvia’s Mother,” “You Make My Pants Want to Get Up and Dance” and “Cover of the Rolling Stone.”

“Cover of the Rolling Stone” was so convincing that the band graced the March 29 issue in 1973. After his run with Dr. Hook and the Medicine Show, Sawyer got back to his roots in Chickasaw, where he still resides.

In 2005, he was inducted to the Alabama Music Hall of Fame and continues to tour across the United States and Canada.

Songsmiths’ chance

Serda’s Coffee Company in LoDa has been offering quality musical entertainment in addition to their delicious fare. Local artists such as Leland Clay and Roman Street have graced their stage, and now they are inviting local Port City songwriters to come strut their stuff at their Songwriter’s Night every Wednesday night at 8 p.m.

Serda’s Songwriter’s Night has only one requirement: original music. This event provides an excellent environment for those trying to bring their art to the public eye.

Troubador back

Justin Townes Earle will be returning to Callaghan’s Irish Social Club on Tuesday, Nov. 11. Earle’s debut at Callaghan’s was highly successful, and he has many new fans in the Port City who can not wait for his return. Even though this show falls in the middle of the week, those who missed out on this soulful country troubadour should not miss this show. After finishing up a few dates in the States, Earle will make his way to Australia for several dates.

Scum spreads

GWAR (aka the Scumdogs of the Universe) will be returning to the Soul Kitchen on Thursday, Dec. 11 (just in time for Christmas) for yet another evening of over the top, gory theatrics. GWAR has recently reunited with manager Sleazy P. Martini.

According to the GWAR mythos, Martini discovered GWAR in the frozen wastelands of Antarctica and propelled them to legendary status. It has been years since Martini toured with band, so it should make for an interesting evening. Kingdom of Sorrow and Toxic Holocaust will be opening.

Stephen Centanni is Lagniappe music editor. Contact him at scentanni@lagniappemobile.com.

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