Album Notes

The Billy Gibson Band was nominated for a Blues Music Award in 2006, and the party hasn’t stopped since. In May, The BBC World recorded the band for a worldwide television broadcast on Destination Music. The Billy Gibson segment included interviews and band clips and reached millions of viewers in over 200 countries. As most blues fans know, Billy Gibson is a virtuoso harmonica player who was named 2005’s Beale Street “Entertainer Of The Year.” In a city where the blues is king, Gibson sits at the top of the heap. With artist and producer credits extending to more than a hundred recordings, Gibson is vital to the future of the blues.
On Southern Livin’, Gibson returns to the studio with his tight blues rhythm section consisting of former Albert King band members David Bowen (guitar) and James Jackson (bass guitar), along with Cedric Keel on drums and special guest Charlie Wood on keys. Recorded in Memphis at Studio Daddy-O, this CD is likely to dominate the blues radio charts. With clever songs by both Bowen and Gibson, the band sounds better than ever and exudes a confidence some musicians possess, but few earn. The Memphis-based band is proud of their roots, as witnessed on the celebratory track “Mississippi.” The CD also includes a horn section on four of the tracks, adding even more to that funky Memphis sound. As in previous releases, Gibson’s acrobatic harmonica riffs are absolutely astounding. This CD is sweet and southern and definitely something to get up and shout about.