News & Updates
Merry Christmas From Tower Of Power Video
December 17, 2011
Video created with Jib-Jab:
In Loving Memory, John David Crockett, 1947 - 2011
December 02, 2011
John David Crockett passed away on November 21st. "Davy Crockett" was Tower Of Power's first crew member and was an important part of the band's early years.
Above photos were taken at the TOP 40th Anniversary show at the Fillmore, San Francisco, CA
In Loving Memory Of Our Dear Friend Dave Crockett:
Dave was Tower of Power’s first road crew. He, all by himself, was actually our whole crew. He was known by all to be a hard worker with a great sense of humor and a loving heart, who lit up the room whenever he walked in. When God made him he broke the mold, truly one of a kind, and he’ll be sorely missed. He was one of the absolute best in the business.
We love you Dave and we’ll never forget you.
God bless you!!! Emilio Castillo and the Tower of Power family
Complete Obituary Details Are Available Here: John David Crockett, 1947 - 2011
Check Out www.LennyPickettMusic.com
November 27, 2011
Musical Director for Saturday Night Live and TOP Alum Lenny Pickett has a very interesting new website.
Check it out at: http://www.lennypickettmusic.com
Lenny Pickett sitting in with Tower Of Power at the City Winery in NYC, 2009
A Thanksgiving Treat From Tower Of Power >> New Live Video
November 23, 2011
Last Saturday Night at Harrah's in Atlantic City, Average White Band and Tower Of Power shared the stage. Former TOP lead vocalist Brent Carter is now working with The Average White Band. Larry Braggs called Brent to the stage to join him on the last song of the night, "I Like Your Style".
Here's some video for you to enjoy:
Wishing you all a Happy Thanksgiving!
TOWER OF POWER ANNOUNCES EUROPEAN TOUR FOR MARCH 2012
October 25, 2011
LEGENDARY ‘TOWER OF POWER’ ANNOUNCES EUROPEAN TOUR FOR MARCH 2012
October 26, 2011 - With 43 years of recording and touring experience behind them, Tower of Power today announce their return to the European live circuit with a tour hitting Europe in March 2012. Tower of Power start their jaunt with two very special shows at the famous Ronnie Scotts in London on the 9th and 10th of March, before performing throughout mainland Europe then a triumphant return to London’s Koko on 29th March. Tower of Power also return with a 40th ANNIVERSARY CD/DVD BOX SET and their most recent studio release, THE GREAT AMERICAN SOULBOOK which features covers of soul classics with guest singers Joss Stone, Sir Tom Jones, Huey Lewis, and Sam Moore.
The group still garners rave reviews, and leaves the audiences dancing in their seats in the arenas, theaters, and outdoor venues they play year 'round. Melding soul, jazz, funk, and rock in a way no group ever has, the ten-piece outfit is, according to the HOLLYWOOD REPORTER, “tighter than a clenched fist.”
The late great James Brown was quoted in HEEB magazine about Tower of Power, as saying, "There's no black group that plays my stuff as good as them."
Well known in the '70s for tunes such as “What is Hip?” and “You're Still a Young Man,” Tower of Power toured with Santana, Sly Stone and Credence Clearwater Revival, eventually creating traffic jams when they headlined their own shows. They performed on records with Elton John, Smokey Robinson, Rod Stewart, Aerosmith, and Dionne Warwick, influencing a generation of musicians (including Sting, who has told Emilio Castillo, founder of the group, that he once had a “Tower of Power clone band” before he formed The Police). In the 1980s, they backed Huey Lewis and the News, Heart, Eurythmics, and Little Feat, just to name a few.
Tower of Power, after more than 40 years, is experiencing more popularity than ever before as they tour year 'round packing venues in the United States, the Pacific Rim, and all over Europe.
Former Tower saxophonist Lenny Pickett, current musical director for the Saturday Night Live band, said “TOP is the world's best rhythm and blues band.” In reality, TOP's horn-driven, in-your-face sound is all its own.
Emilio Castillo - bandleader, 2nd tenor sax, vocals
Stephen "Doc" Kupka - baritone sax
Rocco Prestia - bass
David Garibaldi - drums
Larry Braggs - lead vocalist
Roger Smith - keyboards
Tom Politzer - lead tenor sax
Adolfo Acosta - trumpet
Jerry Cortez - guitar
Sal Cracchiolo - trumpet & trombone
TOUR DATES MARCH 2012
9TH RONNIE SCOTTS, LONDON, UK
10TH RONNIE SCOTTS, LONDON, UK
12TH TBA
13TH OOSTERPOORT KLEINE, GRONINGEN, HOLLAND
14TH DEN ATELIER, LUXEMBOURG
16TH AMAGER BIO, COPENHAGEN, DENMARK
17TH BREW HOUSE, GOTEBORG, SWEDEN
18TH ROCKEFELLER, OSLO, NORWAY
20TH FABRIK, HAMBURG, GERMANY
21ST CAPITOL, HANNOVER, GERMANY
22ND POSTBAHNHOF, BERLIN, GERMANY
24TH TEATRO DEL GIGLIO, LUCCA, ITALY
25TH VOLKSHAUS, ZURICH, SWITZERLAND
26TH LA CIGALE, PARIS, FRANCE
27TH PARADISO, AMSTERDAM, HOLLAND
29TH KOKO, LONDON, UK
40th ANNIVERSARY CD/DVD BOX SET and THE GREAT AMERICAN SOULBOOK out now on TOP Records.
Click Here For Info: TOP ON-LINE STORE
Visit them on the web at http://www.towerofpower.com
TOP Behind The Scenes at Humphrey’s in San Diego
August 30, 2011
Here's a link to some new video taken at the Humphrey's By The Bay show last week in San Diego, CA.
Optional link: TOP VIDEO ON FACEBOOK
Sal Cracchiolo Joins Tower Of Power on Trumpet
August 14, 2011
“Tower of Power is delighted to announce Sal Cracchiolo as our newest member. Sal is a “world class” lead trumpet player. Super exciting!!! He has an incredibly high range, plays with power and finesse, his soloing technique is unparalleled, and he’s one of the nicest guys I’ve ever known. He’s a great addition to the T.O.P. family.” -Tower Of Power Band Leader Emilio Castillo.
Sal will be replacing Lee Thornberg on trumpet
TOP Horns, 2011, Adolfo Acosta, Sal Cracchiolo, Doc Kupka, Tom Politzer, Emilio Castillo
(photo: Frank Anzalone)
Sal Cracchiolo Biography:
Salvator William Cracchiolo II was born in Long Beach, California as the son of two talented music teachers. His father, Sal Cracchiolo I, owned a music studio where he taught piano and played professional accordion. His mother, Edith, was his first trumpet teacher and started Sal on trumpet at the age of 12. He played in concert, marching and jazz band in high school. By his Junior and Senior year of High School, he was attending Cerritos College playing in their jazz and concert bands.
He started working as a professional musician at 15 in nightclubs with various R&B and Latin bands. In 1977 he started a long musical relationship with Poncho Sanchez, which ultimately let to 18 albums. While working with Poncho, in the 1980s, he was a member of the Pasadena City College Big Band under the direction of saxophonist, Gary Foster. While in this band, Sal played with such jazz greats as Warren Marsh, Lee Konitz, and Peter Erskine.
In the late-80s, Poncho started traveling internationally. Since then, with Poncho and other acts, Sal has traveled to 38 countries globally. With Poncho, he has played and recorded with Dizzy Gillespie, Freddie Hubbard, Cal Tjader, Chick Corea, Stanley Turentine, Tito Puente, Mongo Santamaria, Clare Fischer, Gary Foster, Arturo Sandoval, Eddie Harris, Joey DeFrancesco, Dianne Reeves, Justo Almario, Andy Martin and Celia Cruz. He performed for, and with, these artists at the Monterey, Playboy, Concord, and Nice Jazz Festivals plus many others throughout the U.S., Europe, Canada, Mexico, South America, Thailand and Japan.
He recorded on Bobby Shew’s, “Salsa Caliente” CD, in 1998. He has also done worldwide tours with such artists as Tom Jones, Vicki Carr, Brian Setzer, Michael Bolton and Harry Connick Jr.
He performed with his own sextet featuring his wife, Melanie Jackson, on vocals. In 2001, their CD, “Fly”, was nominated for a Latin Grammy. In 2004 through 2006 the California Arts Council sponsored Sal and Melanie’s sextet.
He has toured and recorded with the Clayton/ Hamilton Jazz Orchestra and has played with them since 2003. Downbeat Magazine rated the CHJO as the #1 Big Band in the USA in 2007. He has recorded John Clayton’s arrangements with members of the CHJO on CDs with Michael Buble, David Foster, Jamiroquoi, Rene Olstad, Paul Anka, Joss Stone, Charles Aznevour, Gladys Knight and Diana Krall.
Sal is a Yamaha artist and clinician.
LIve@Amoeba Music in San Francisco, DJ Harry Duncan’s Roots and Rhythm Series
July 28, 2011
The Roots and Rhythm Series With DJ Harry Duncan
Saturday, July 30th, 2pm-5pm
Amoeba Music
1855 Haight Street
San Francisco, CA
(415) 831-1200
If you are a fan of soul music and you are anywhere near San Francisco, you should check out Harry's show in person or on the air. According to Tower Of Power Bandleader, Emilio Castillo: "He’s a very good friend and a DJ of some of the hippest music you’ll ever hear anywhere."
Featured on Sat, July 30 from 2-5 p.m. will be the award-winning Roots and Rhythm music mix from In The Soul Kitchen, Duncan's weekly radio show on KUSF In Exile plus ticket giveaways, CD and vinyl giveaways and more.
For more information: CLICK HERE
To sample some of the deep soul and funk, jazz, blues,
ska, roots reggae, and more you'll hear on July 30th,
listen to In The Soul Kitchen with DJ Harry Duncan:
Streaming on KUSF In Exile, Tuesdays 7-9 p.m.
Listen to archived In The Soul Kitchen shows:
http://www.inthesoulkitchen.blogspot.com
For more info on KUSF In Exile and Save KUSF visit: http://www.savekusf.org
Contact: Harry Duncan
(415) 474-0365 ext. 16
Who is Harry Duncan?
THE SOUNDS OF ROOTS AND RHYTHM WITH DJ HARRY DUNCAN
Harry Duncan, longtime Bay Area-based producer of live soul/funk/r&b, jazz, blues, roots reggae, African and World music shows brings his knowledge and expertise to the airwaves every Tuesday night with In The Soul Kitchen with Harry D, the award-winning, roots music show on KUSF In Exile/San Francisco. Duncan has produced and hosted the popular weekly show since it began in 1984.
Respected industry-wide as an innovator, Duncan integrates his years of experience as a live music producer and radio producer/host into the Roots and Rhythm DJ Project.
After looking carefully at the music that will be performed live (and the musicians performing), the demographics of the audience and the venue, Duncan spins a customized blend-for both listening and dancing-of all styles of soul/funk/r&b, blues, jazz, roots reggae, Latin, African and World music. This music mix provides audiences, artists and promoters with a welcome, creative alternative to the kind of house music often played at festivals, concerts and clubs.
Recent Appearances Include:
2010 Monterey Jazz Festival
The Roots, New Year’s Eve (Warfield Theatre/S.F.)
Sharon Jones and The Dap Kings (Warfield Theatre/S.F.)
Tower of Power (Fillmore/S.F.)
Cyndi Lauper Memphis Soul and Blues Show ( The Independent/S.F.)
Femi Kuti (Bimbo’s 365 Club/S.F.)
Soulive, Rebirth Brass Band (The Independent/S.F.)
Bill Graham Birthday Bash Benefit with Los Lobos (The Fillmore)
Boz Scaggs (Uptown Theatre/Napa)
Blue Bear School of Music Benefit with The Funky Meters (Bimbo’s 365 Club)
Galactic (The Fillmore)
2010 Sausalito Arts Festival w/ Mavis Staples, Jefferson Starship
Grand Opening Night of The Uptown Theatre/Napa with Big Bad Voodoo Daddy
Keb Mo (Uptown Theatre/Napa)
The Radiators (The Independent/S.F.)
Mardi Gras Party with Dirty Dozen Brass Band, Zig Modeliste
(The Independent/S.F.)
To Hear Music Samples, Check Out Any of The Radio Shows Posted On:
http://www.inthesoulkitchen.blogsot.com
For More Information Contact:
Harry Duncan
(415) 474-0365, ext. 16
New From Larry Braggs, “Jus Sangin‘“
July 19, 2011
According to TOP Bandleader, Emilio Castillo, Larry Braggs is "Pound for Pound, the Baddest Cat in The Land", but he may also be the busiest cat in the land as well.
His hot new release, "Jus Sangin'" features 14 Soul Classics. LB covers some the the greatest soul artists that ever recorded ranging from Marvin Gaye to Luther Vandross to Ray Charles to the Stylistics; from Stevie Wonder to Steve Miller. OK, "Fly Like An Eagle is not a soul classic, but it will be now that Larry put his spin on it.
You can preview all of the tunes at Larry's brand new website, http://www.larrybraggs.net
All of this coupled with a CD release party on July 31st in Austin, Texas is making for a busy July for LB. He will be appearing with Austin's premier funk band, The Bizness on 7/31.
All of the details are shown here:
LA’s “Junkman” Reviews TOP At The Greek Theater
June 06, 2011
Funk. A word that is familiar to most of us, but not necessarily defined correctly. Loosely translated, it can be described as the sweaty, stinky, state of the human body after a good workout. You know, the way you feel after a good bout of dancing or performing under some hot lights in a crowded space. Your clothes are sticking to your body, your armpits are stained with sweat, your hair is messed up, and your feet and hips hurt. This is EXACTLY the feeling you get from seeing and listening and dancing to a good funk band. Hence, the word funky.
It has become known for awhile now, and popularized by the late great James Brown and his band, that a “Funk Band” playing “Funky Music” is the type of band with the bass and drum centered, playing beat-heavy music that is irresistible to people who want to get up and dance. Not just dance, but “Git Funky,” work your body till it gets all sweaty and nasty, in the state that I described.
Recently, I attended a show by a band that has laid claim to be the funkiest of the funky for over 40 years. The announcer likes to say at the beginning of their shows, “Ladies and Gentlemen, from Oakland California — Tower of Power!” And yes, the funk was brought on once again by this 10-piece band that had this writer (and many others), “gittin funky” in the aisles.
The show was at the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles on a perfect evening. It was part of a triple bill featuring TOP, Los Angeles Latino style horn band Tierra, and LA’s own fusion band War. The cool night was a great setting for the sweaty sounds that were soon to follow. Tierra got things started with a short set combining Latino and funky sounds that seemed to get the crowds attention, with a few toe-tappers and ballads like the 1980s hit song “Together.”
At around 7:20 PM, out stepped onstage Radio DJ legend Rick Dees, who for the last few months has been the morning DJ on Los Angeles station KHHT “Hot 92.3” — the sponsors of the show. He told a few jokes and then introduced the band that the crowd had been anxiously waiting for: Tower of Power!
Led by the core of band founders — tenor saxophonist Emilio Castillo and baritone saxophonist Stephen “Doc” Kupka — the band laid down the funk from the get-go. Opening with a medley of “Soul Vaccination” and “Oakland Strokem” the band was as tight as ever. I’ve seen them many times and have never been disappointed. That says a lot for a band that has been together since 1968, and has been through many members throughout that time.
Driving the band is the most incredible rhythm section of bassist Francis “Rocco” Prestia and drummer David Garibaldi, whose tight accents and funky chops really give the band their energy. The band tore into their extensive catalogue of songs, including 1976’s “You Ought To Be Having Fun” and the very appropriate-for-these-times, ‘Only So Much Oil In The Ground” from 1974’s Urban Renewal.
Emilio Castillo & Junkman
Lead singer Larry Braggs is, as far as I’m concerned, the Tower of Power vocalist (and there have been many) with the most range. Not only that, but the brotha can “bust a move” as well. His dancing gave each song the energy it needed to take it over the top.
Speaking of moves, during the 1973 hit, “So Very Hard To Go,” the entire horn section emphasized the early verses with their signature hand moves to accompany it before breaking in with their instruments. Always a crowd favorite!
The Tower of Power horn section is something of an American icon. Consisting of Castillo, Kupka, tenor saxophonist Tom Politzer, trumpeter Adolpho Acosta, as well as the return of longtime trumpet player Lee Thornburg, this is what the band is all about. Their distinctive jazz-funk sound has been heard on hundreds of recordings by a variety of artists. The fact that these guys play and tour for upwards of 200 shows a year is testament to their character. They obviously love what they do.
And so does the crowds they attract. Like most of the people around me, it was hard to sit down, although I did to enjoy their take on the old Billy Paul soul classic from the 70s, “Me and Mrs. Jones.” Braggs really let loose on that one, continuing to dazzle the crowd with his soulful chops. He really showed off his dance moves for the next number, a tribute to the “Hardest Working Man In Show Business,” entitled “Diggin’ On James Brown.” This brought the crowd to its feet, as did the final number, their biggest hit “What Is Hip?.”
For this, they brought out special guests, such as trumpeter Sal Cracioldo, and the lovely saxophonist Mindy Abair, for an extended jam of terrific horn driven funk. Trumpeter Lee Thornburg, sporting some bright red slacks, even went into the crowd to dance and play his horn, to the delight of everyone. It seemed the entire Greek Theatre was moving — it was infectious. It’s amazing what good musicianship and great songs can do to entice an older crowd into dusting off dance moves that they may or may not have used in years, myself included. I will tell you this, as much as I’m not much of a dancer and never claimed to be, I ALWAYS dance my ass off at a Tower of Power show. I hope that will not deter you from attending.
After the show, I spoke with Emilio Castillo about the future of TOP. He told me they still play about 200 shows a year all over the world, and have plans to record a new record of original tunes in this, their forty-fourth year. If you are up for it, I highly recommend seeing them in a town near you. You won’t regret it.
I decided to skip out after T.O.P. and make it an early night, missing WAR. No regrets though. I was thoroughly (to paraphrase Tower of Power) “funkifized” and satisfied. A truly fun show. My thanks to the good people at the Greek Theatre and Nederlander for making this night possible. And of course to Tower of Power. Now “Git Funky and Dance!!!!”
SETLIST:
Soul Vaccination/Oakland Stroke
Ain’t Nothin’ Stoppin’ Us Now
You Ought To Be Having Fun
Only So Much Oil In The Ground
Get Your Feet Back On The Ground
You Got To Funkifize
So Very Hard To Go
I Like Your Style
This Time Its Real
Me And Mrs. Jones
Diggin’ On James Brown
What Is Hip?
Junkman & Francis “Rocco” Prestia
Interview Courtesy Of Junkman, and http://www.vintagerock.com
Direct link to original interview available here: http://www.vintagerock.com/top_2011.aspx
Benefit This Sunday For Yvonne Kupka
June 02, 2011
As most of you know, Doc Kupka's wife Yvonne received a liver transplant earlier this year. She continues to recover and Doc, Yvonne, and their family, as well as everyone associated with Tower Of Power are truly grateful for all of the love and support that has come forward in their time of need.
This Sunday at the Lindero Canyon Country Club, The Geronimo's Path Foundation is presenting a benefit show with proceeds going to help with the huge medical expenses associated with transplant surgery.
The location is Lindero Canyon Country Club, 5719 Lake Lindero Drive in Agoura Hills CA. Live Music begins at 4:00.
If you are reading this and would like to make a donation, you can do so by visiting Yvonne's website, http://www.yvonnekupka.com
Thank you for your support!
Jesse McGuire’s New CD “Power Trump”
May 14, 2011
TOP Alumni Member's New Release
POWER TRUMP
"Twice as good, for half as much"
Jesse McGuire has released "Power Trump", his latest CD. Jesse plays all of the instruments and handles the vocals as well on this really beautiful collection of songs. This project is dedicated to his family, and includes some songs that he crafted over 30 years ago. It's a great record, and if you are a fan of inspired trumpet playing, and great music, this is one that you will want to check out.
TRACK LISTING
01 "It's All About Family"
02 "Thoughts Of Yesterday"
03 "Flight Of the Archangel"
04 "Deep Within My Soul"
05 "Desert Magic"
06 "Blowing Kisses"
07 "Southside Sunset"
08 "Island Calm"
09 "Jesse Jamaica"
10 "I Wanna Take A Chance With You"
11 "Twice As Good For Half As Much"
12 "Streets of Gold, Gates Of Pearl"
For more Information and samples of EACH track, visit Jesse's website, www.JesseMcGuire.com
Filmore 40th Anniversary DVD Review
May 12, 2011
Tower of Power “40th Anniversary” DVD & CD, TOP Records
“Still Hip, with Tons of Soul with a Capital ‘S’ ” Rating: 8
Bob Putignano www.SoundsofBlue.com
It took a while for Tower of Power to release this “40th Anniversary” two disc set (DVD & CD.) Recorded nearly three years ago at the Fillmore Auditorium on October 18th, 2008, the almost three year wait was worth it. TOP pulled out the stops for this special evening utilizing their current band lineup plus they brought back alumni members: Chester Thompson, Mic Gillette, Greg Adams, Richard Elliot, plus non-alum Sam Moore is fabulously featured performing stunning versions of the Hayes-Porter “I Thank You,” and the Otis Redding-Steve Cropper “Mr. Pitiful.” But these two Moore covers are only available on the DVD, and did not make it to the CD.
The DVD three part bonus segments starts out with current original members Emilio Castillo, Doc Kupka, Rocco Prestia, and David Garibaldi revisiting their Bay area haunts telling stories about how they met Bill Graham, got signed by his label, and eventually went on to fame. One of the Castillo comments about saxophonist Lenny Pickett struck me odd, “Lenny Pickett was King Curtis, Maceo Parker, and Jr. Walker all in one package - times ten,” Come on, Pickett’s great but lets be serious. By the way, Pickett only partially performs on bonus segments, not on the main portions, nor on the CD. Other bonus segments only include snippets of the band playing, and are mainly interviews of the guys hanging out telling somewhat interesting stories of the bands legacy, very informal and genuine. Although brief, it was cool to see Bruce Conte’s recent and memorable guitar solo on “What Is Hip?” Unfortunately Conte’s also absent during the DVD’s full concert performance.
The main performance DVD is done like a documentary, starts with a previously recorded introduction by Bill Graham that I thought was a very classy touch, then wham the band slams into the appropriately titled “We Came To Play,” then with precision craftsmanship shifts to “Soul With a Capital ‘S,’” , with additional comps from “Oakland Stroke,” whew! Other highlights: by track five there’s now a huge amount of guest artists on-stage, the massive horn section’s on fire especially with the additions of Mic Gillette and Greg Adams. Vocalist Ellis Hall joins the fray on a thumping “You Got to Funkifize,” further fueled by Chester Thompson’s B3 and keyboards, who is also interviewed with Bruce Conte. Richard Elliot leads the band on his instrumental “Boys From the Bay” and soars, Greg Adams trumpet solo is also captivating and trades hot licks with Elliot, to take this ultra funky track out, unfortunately this track does not make it’s way to CD. Band member kudos for baritone player Doc Kupka calling him the bottom sound of the band, and the perfect counterpoint, then Ellis Hall leads the band with a very up-tempo version of “This Time Is Real.” A real soul man is called for when Sam Moore makes one of his two appearances starting with “I Thank You.” Sam’s walking a little slow these days, but vocally he sounds strong and he’s very inspired here. Moore’s coaxed on for another and delivers a passionate “Mr. Pitiful.” “Only So Much Oil In The Ground” has Ellis Hall back in front with at least six pieces of horns, where Richard Elliot is given space to blast off, calls for CT are answered when Chester Thompson explodes with his B3 solo. Current band members extol the qualities of vocalist Larry Braggs who takes us on a simmering version of “A Little Knowledge (Is a Dangerous Thing.” Braggs asks the crowd “What Is Hip?” and rolls, Greg Adams trumpet is dead-on as he buzzes and dances around the horn section, guitar solos by Mark Harper, Jeff Tamelier, and Carmen Grillo are also fiery. But from a entertainment vantage the edited interviews during this performance broke the mood, and weren’t welcomed, fortunately on the CD, these interviews were edited out. I loved the group shot of all the guests with the current lineup near the end of the show, there was no way for me to count the amount of players on-stage, but it was impressive. Also impressive was the way that no one bumped into each others playing, and flowed, true pros, all of them. Sadly, it’s almost over with “You’re Still a Young Man” Braggs sounds like he’s been singing this song like he’s been in the band for all of their forty years, it’s all very, very soulful. The finale was kind of anticlimactic for me “Knock Yourself Out” is performed well, but not one of TOP’s most remembered tunes, so this felt odd, but the band fires, Chester Thompson in particular, but there’s more interruptions with interviews, which truly kill the moment on the DVD. These interviews could have and should have ran during the closing credits. Of note, conspicuously missing was, and what could have been the closing number, “Squib Cakes,” (a term Mic Gillette used to describe the backsides of lovely ladies) was a long time favorite of late-night FM radio, exciting, and a tune they still regularly perform, it’s also a great workout for all the members of the band, don’t why it wasn’t performed and/or not added to this otherwise fine set.
In summary, this package is a delight that will further secure Tower of Power’s already potent legacy. I make it a point to see them live at least once a year; they always pack a venue, and will have you leaving the gig with big smile. Now that’s it’s only about seven years from their (hard to believe) fiftieth anniversary, here’s to looking forward to their next anniversary celebration, as well as lots of other good music till 2018, they’ve still got it. Need further evidence? Get a copy of this two disc set, you won’t be disappointed. Last but not least, and once again classy is the very well laid out liners, complete with song by song musician credits, soloists, et all, and for the page dedicated to original member Steven “Skip” Mesquite, who performs here, but has since passed.
Bob Putignano www.SoundsofBlue.com
*NEW VIDEO* Larry Braggs with The SIDEGUYS
May 03, 2011
Here's a recent video that was taken at the Sellersville Theater, in Sellersville, PA.
Larry appeared there on 4/29 with The SIDEGUYS
"That's Where It's At" from the upcoming release by Larry entitled, "The Cooke Book", a tribute to the music of Sam Cooke.
Larry Braggs with The SIDE GUYS "That's Where It's At" from Tower of Power on Vimeo.
A Message To Our Friends And Fans In Japan From Larry Braggs
March 22, 2011
In Your Time Of Need
Hello everyone. I have been home from Japan now for a week after experiencing one the world's worst earthquakes in history. You never really think or reflect on life changing situations until they happen to you. And, as I roll some of these marbles around in my head, and think about where I have been, and the things I have come across in my travels with Tower Of Power. It makes me go wow! I'm a blessed guy, and I truly walk around in this life with a royal order of protection from the Man upstairs.
I would like to say to all the wonderful people, fans, and our extended family in in Tokyo, and all over that beautiful country, my heart and soul goes out to you and your families in this very dark time that you are going through right now. God, Mother Nature, the higher purpose. Whatever you want to call him has a plan, and it's not really for us to understand why.
Just know that you are not alone in this. yes, it's Dammm hard to make any sense out of it, but keep your faith, stand strong, and know that there is a rainbow on the other side. The journey of life is full of turns, hills, ups, downs, laughter, pain, joy, sadness, and most of all Blessings. I know people will test and say what blessing can you see out of this? My answer to them is to keep on living, and remember, everyone, and everything, has a ( Guy ) and we all will know this soon enough. Lastly, on our last night at the Tokyo Blue Note, the band was asked to come out for an extended encore. We did not play one. It was one of the most selfish things we've ever done. I would like to say to the Blue Note staff, fans, and the hard working paying customers that came out to see us that week, from the bottom of My Heart, I am Truly sorry!
You have my word that as long as I am in this band, this will never happen again.
God's Speed to you all.
Larry Braggs
Tower Of Power Safe In Tokyo
March 11, 2011
Since the devastating earthquake and tsunami last night in Japan, members of TOP have been posting on Facebook from their hotel in Tokyo. They are safe and riding out the aftershocks.
They ask for your prayers and good wishes for the people of Japan and the other countries that are being affected by this disaster.
Francis Rocco Prestia celebrates 60th Birthday in Japan
March 07, 2011
HAPPY 60TH BIRTHDAY TO ROCCO!
MANY, MANY MORE!
Former Tower Of Power Member Lee Thornburg Returns to the Band
February 16, 2011
Lee Thornburg, recent photo and "Back In The Day" with TOP. Mic Gillette in a recent photo, shown above.
Mic Gillette has left Tower Of Power, and will be replaced by Lee Thornburg.
Due to Mic’s own rather busy schedule he has decided it would be better for him to not be touring on a regular basis.
As a result he is leaving the band. Lee Thornburg who previously played with the band from 1986 to 1995 is set to rejoin the group.
Everybody in TOP wishes Mic the very best in his personal ventures and will miss him.
However, the group is equally excited about Lee’s arrival.
Bruce Conte Live On CD. Check This Out!
January 31, 2011
BRUCE CONTE HAS RELEASED AN EXCITING NEW LIVE CD, "Live At Shaver Lake" available at www.bruceconte.com
Bruce Conte is a name that should be familiar to any Tower Of Power fan. Bruce was TOP's guitarist from 1972 to 1979 and truly made his mark during his time with the band. The bulk of his newest CD was recorded live in California at the Shaver Lake and offers 4 additional tracks including a HUGE Tower Of Power bonus. (see below)
The first 8 tracks are a mix of jazz and blues, captured live and performed brilliantly by Bruce Conte (guitar), Billy Haynes (bass & vocals), Les Falconer (drums & vocals) and Nate Ginsberg (keyboards). The last track entitled CT's Jam is a portion of a 1974 TOP radio concert and features one of Chester Thompson's legendary organ solos on "Knock Yourself Out". This is 1974 Tower music you may have not heard before and includes Chester Thompson on B-3 and bass pedals, David Garibaldi on drums, Brent Byars on congas, and Bruce Conte on guitar. These guys are laying down a groove you will love.
Great Stuff from Bruce Conte, available at Bruce's website, www.bruceconte.com
Roger Smith: New Year, New Website, New CD
January 05, 2011
Roger has totally updated his website and it looks great! Take a look: http://www.rogersmith.net
Here is some information on Roger's latest CD, "Rosco's Place II":
Rosco’s Place II, the anxiously-awaited follow up to Roger Smith's original Rosco’s Place, is here and ready to light a fire in the contemporary jazz world.
Featuring world-class musicians throughout, Roger takes us on a fanciful romp filled with delicious grooves, soulful changes, and well-crafted melodies. Roger is a true master of the keyboard and his technical abilities are astounding, yet he never lets the technical side of his playing overshadow the soulfulness.
Roger stretches out on the organ, piano, Rhodes, synthesizer, and bass and never fails to delight, alongside beautifully crafted solos from his many special guests. Many present and former members of Tower of Power make appearances on JAZZ ROSCO II, along with other stellar musicians.
Rosco's Place II, the anxiously-awaited follow up to Roger Smith's original Rosco’s Place, is here and ready to light a fire in the contemporary jazz world.
Featuring world-class musicians throughout, Roger takes us on a fanciful romp filled with delicious grooves, soulful changes, and well-crafted melodies. Roger is a true master of the keyboard and his technical abilities are astounding, yet he never lets the technical side of his playing overshadow the soulfulness.
Yvonne Kupka Has Received A Liver Transplant!
December 28, 2010
-Breaking News!
Yvonne Kupka has had successful liver transplant surgery. Late last night a liver became available and the transplant surgery took place. Our prayers have been answered! The road to recovery is a long one, and with any type of transplant surgery there can be many complications.
Doc and his family, as well as everyone associated with Tower Of Power would like to thank everyone that has been kind enough to make donations to the fund that has been established for Yvonne's medical expenses. Yvonne's recovery will take time and the financial needs are just beginning.
Please click here for information on how you can help the Kupka Family: Yvonne Kupka Medical Fund
Tower On Local News Station KGO
Strokeland Digital Download
December 22, 2010
NEW! FROM STROKELAND RECORDS
Download a SNEAK PREVIEW MP3 of Strokeland's forthcoming DOC GOES VEGAS with the LON BRONSON ALL-STAR BAND Featuring LARRY BRAGGS and Strokeland will donate ALL PROFITS to the Yvonne Kupka Medical Fund.
Please Click Here For Details On Doc's New Song:"At The End Of The Day"
Yvonne Kupka Article
November 28, 2010
Yvonne Depatis-Kupka, wife of Stephen "Doc" Kupka of the Legendary Tower of Power needs a liver transplant and needs your help
By Dr. Al Carlos Hernandez
Herald De Paris
Steve Kupka is one of the founding members of the soul band Tower of Power. TOP, The Kings of East Bay Soul have been touring the world for over 42 years bringing their brand of horn fueled furious funk and sweet soulful ballads. Their legions of followers and fans include Prince, Sting, Madonna, and Carlos Santana. Tower of Power band leader Emilio Castillo started to play with his band the Motowns at the end of the 1960's. Unlike most of the other S.F. bands during that time, the Motowns - an East Bay band - played soul music instead of psychedelic music. When Stephen Kupka joined the band Castillo found a partner and an important foundation for what was to come. Soon the band changed its name to Tower of Power - basically because it looked like a name that could mean success.
Bill Graham, master concert promoter signed the band to his label San Francisco Records and Tower recorded their first album entitled 'East Bay Grease' in 1970. With this album and several popular appearances at the Fillmore and other venues the band was quickly signed to Warner Brothers. With Warner they released six albums. These gave them such hit singles as 'You're Still A Young Man', 'So Very Hard To Go' and 'Don't Change Horses (In A Middle Of A Stream)' - the latter being their last US Top 30 hit single in 1974.
When the band switched their label to Columbia things started to get worse (although Columbia paid quite a high price to get Tower). They produced three records for Columbia but only the first one reminded of the old Tower of Power. Drug problems, subsequent line-up changes and attempts to keep up with the disco sound produced two weak follow up albums. It looked like the end was near. Nevertheless one has to acknowledge that Tower produced 10 albums during the 70s and very few bands can claim to have an album out every year!
Tower of Power is bigger and badder than ever and expects to put out a live 40th anniversary DVD later this month that was filmed at the seminal Fillmore auditorium in San Francisco on October 18, 2008. TOP plays at least 200 dates a year still globe trotting throwing the funk down and gaining a legion of new generation fans.
Steven "Doc" Kupka said; “Love is patient and kind. That’s my philosophy. Making things better for you if you’ve been to our show– that gives me a joyous feeling. It’s a beautiful thing and I know it was meant to be. Having a vibrant career that meets my creative and artistic needs also brings me joy. And being this old -- that really works me! The sum for us has always been greater than the parts. Because when we click there isn’t a band in the world that can beat us. It’s us veterans getting that charge from the young guys – they’ve really kept us old guys going”.
When everything got better I appreciated it so much more. Don’t take anything for granted, it’s all so fleeting – that was the biggest lesson. Huey Lewis single-handedly revived our career, and I’m eternally grateful for that. Getting David (Garibaldi) back -- what a major turning point that was. Also, being vigilant about the business -- it doesn’t matter how well you play if you don’t take care of that. So the future is friendly, especially if we get a couple of breaks – a song in a high-profile movie, let’s say, or if Being on top of the world when we’re smoking – it’s a magical feeling. I’m blessed to have my relationships with Emilio (Castillo), who’s taught me so much about soul music, and David and Rocco (Prestia) who make everything look so easy. As long as we have Tower people playing Tower rhythms, and horn players who know how to play tight – and we have a good vocalist -- Tower of Power will be all right.
Well, things for now are not all right, Kupka's beloved wife Yvonne Depatis-Kupka a renowned and highly respected Hollywood makeup artist and actress whose work has appeared in more than 50 movies and television shows including Planet of the Apes, In Living Color, CSI Miami, In Treatment, True Blood, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, and many more, is in serious need of a liver transplant and the family at this time doesn’t have all the resources to make it happen, so we need your help. Yvonne Depatis-Kupka recently designed and styled hundreds of wigs for Harold Ramis' prehistoric comedy "Year One," but when it comes to hair, she has a pretty impressive history of her own. She discovered a natural affinity for cosmetology at a very early age.
Yvonne said,” I was doing hair when I was about 7 years old, I had this little doll, and I didn't like her hair. So I took it down and brushed it all out, and it got really crazy. I just started playing with it and gave her a different hairdo. And my mom used to let me comb her hair. She still thinks nobody can do her hair as well as me."
In 1966, Depatis-Kupka went to work for Gene Shacove, the legendary Beverly Hills hairdresser who was rumored to be the inspiration for Warren Beatty's character in "Shampoo." In the 1970s, she moved to Northern California, where she opened her own salon in Santa Rosa before joining a theater troupe called Free Store.
"It was live street-performance theater up in the San Francisco Bay Area," she said. "We were very political -- crazy costumes, full face masks and all of that. We painted our faces differently for every performance."
After 15 years, the L.A. native returned to her hometown and began to pursue work as a hair and makeup artist in the entertainment industry, something she had vowed to avoid as a child. (Her parents worked for NBC and Universal Studios.) "I don't know why, but I can look at a picture and duplicate anything," she said. "I started getting phone calls to take care of actresses or actors who cut their hair off and then they had to go back to do some re shoots or additional photography. They'd call me to come and match them. I love working with wigs. I really enjoy making them look real."
Yvonne is on the California liver transplant list, seriously ill and urgently in need of this surgery. Simply put, the cost for this major surgery and post-operative care substantially exceeds her health insurance coverage and the family's resources. Major surgery shouldn't bankrupt a family or threaten to financially ruin their lives. So the Friends of Yvonne and Doc Kupka have organized this medical fund to help cover the uninsured portion of these extreme medical expenses.
How You Can Help
(1) Please make a PayPal donation to the medical fund: For More Information go to: http://www.yvonnekupka.com
(2) Share this with your followers on Twitter, Facebook, and other social networks:
(3) Blog about this fundraiser. Write a short article for your blog to help get the word out.
(4) Buy the CD.
In 2008, Doc Kupka released Doc Goes Hollywood, a collection of ballads in a modern "Great American Songbook" style. Included on this CD is Track 5, Yvonne, a touching, moving tribute to the love of Doc's life: Yvonne Depatis-Kupka.
You can buy the CD at http://www.strokelandrecords.com or http://www.cdbaby.com. All proceeds from the sale of this CD at either outlet are graciously being donated to the Yvonne Kupka Medical Fund.
Doc Goes Hollywood: Copyright © 2008, Strokeland Records. All rights reserved. Used with written permission.
Please pray for the Kupka family.
This is an emotional and difficult time for the Kupkas. But prayer can work wonders—even miracles! "Where two or three are gathered in His name..." Please offer a prayer for the family.
Donations are not tax-deductible
The Friends of Yvonne and Doc Kupka have established an Irrevocable Trust Agreement administered by an independent medical fund trustee to govern the proper handling and administration of all donations received. Donations are gifts to Yvonne Depatis-Kupka and are not tax-deductible in the United States under current IRS regulations.
To verify that this is a legitimate fundraising effort and not an Internet scam, visit Doc Kupka's Web site at http://strokeland.com/ or the Tower of Power Web site at http://towerofpower.com/.
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TOP 40th Anniversary Rehearsal Video
November 17, 2010
Here's a video treat for Wed, November 17th. The following video is NOT part of the upcoming Tower of Power 40th Anniversary DVD. This is part of some video that was taken with a camcorder during the three days of rehearsals that led up to the 40th Anniversary Show at the Fillmore in San Francisco, CA.
You are seeing amateur video, with audio coming from small stage monitor speakers.
For your viewing pleasure from your friends, Tower of Power.
If you like what you see, let us know and we will get some more posted for you.
Tower Of Power, "Funk The Dumb Stuff" Rehearsal Footage from Tower of Power on Vimeo.
Roger Smith’s Latest CD, Jazz Rosco II Now Available!
November 14, 2010
Photo of Roger Smith courtesy of Bob Burchfield
The October 2010 release of Jazz Rosco II is here. A dynamic, high energy CD featuring the creative wizardry of Sacramento-based keyboardist Roger Smith, in collaboration with some of the best musicians in America will be available at the upcoming Tower of Power performances beginning on October 12th at the Birchmere in Virginia.
Roger will make himself available at each show to autograph each copy purchased.
The Tower of Power Tour Schedule is available at http://www.towerofpower.com/tour-dates/.
General sales begin online on Oct. 31, 2010, via Strokeland.com, iTunes, CDBaby.com, Amazon.com, and other online outlets. More information and links will be posted soon.
Jazz Rosco II includes appearances from current Tower of Power members David Garibaldi, Tom E. Politzer, Adolfo Acosta, and Mic Gillette.
Multi-faceted keyboard artist Roger Smith really stretches out, serving up a CD that takes you on a Jazz-Funk odyssey that includes:
"Hopscotch"
-Michael Curtis Jr.-Drums; L.C. Williams-Guitar Solo; Ray Raymond-Guitar; Charles McNeal-Alto Saxophone; Roger Smith-Piano Organ & Bass
"One Size Fits All"
-Michael Curtis Jr.-Drums; Mick Valentino-Guitar; Kevin Chokon-Rhythm Guitar; Darius Babazadeh-Alto Saxophone; Roger Smith-Bass Organ
"Catz Play"
-Rick Lotter-Drums; James Zollar-Trumpet; Charles McNeal-Alto Saxophone; Mick Valentino-Guitar; Eric Nemeyer-Vibraphone; Roger Smith-Piano, Bass
"One Twenty"
-David Garibaldi-Drums; Adolfo Acosta-Trumpet; Tom E. Politzer-Tenor Saxophone; Bobby “G” Gonzales-Guitar; Roger Smith-Rhodes, Bass, Synth Bass,
-Piano; Darius Babazadeh-Alto Saxophone & Solo
"Rachael’s Dream"
-Jimmy Robinson-Drums; Freddie Williams-Upright Bass; Mick Valentino-Guitar; Roger Smith-Piano
"No Lie"
-David Garibaldi-Drums; Francis “Rocco” Prestia-Bass; Jeff Tamelier-Guitar; Roger Smith-Organ;
-Featuring Tower Of Power Horn Section Stephen “Doc” Kupka-Baritone Sax; Emillo Castillo-Tenor Saxophone;
-Tom E. Politzer-Tenor Saxophone; Adolfo Acosta-Trumpet; Mike Bogart-Trumpet
"Whispers"
-Daniel Bejarano-Drums; Curtis Ohlson-Bass; Bobby Gonzales-Guitar; Roger Smith-Synth Piano, Synth Bass, Flute
"Let The Band Play"
-Michael Curtis Jr.-Drums; Flip Kirby-Drums; Jimi Morris-Electric Bass & Vocals; Terry Jones-Guitar; Jon Skinner-Saxophone; Norbert Stachel-Tenor Saxophone Solo; Adolfo Acosta-Muted Trumpets; Roger Smith-Piano, Rhodes, Clavinet, Acoustic Bass, Organ
"Party Up"
-David Garibaldi-Drums; Derek “DOA” Allen-Bass, Guitar & Vocals; Jimi Morris-Bass; Jeff Tamalier-Guitar; Terell Carter-Vocals; Roger Smith-Organ & Piano; Mic Gillette, Trombones & Trumpets;
-Tom E. Politzer-Alto, Tenor, & Baritone Saxophones
"Virus"
-Herman Matthews-Drums; Bobby “G” Gonzales-Guitars; Roger Smith-Bass, Piano, & Synthesizers
"If You Want Me To Stay"
-Michael Curtis Jr.-Drums; Mic Gillette-Trumpets & Trombones; Tom E. Politzer- Alto, Tenor, & Baritone Saxophones; Roger Smith-All Other Instruments
Horn Arrangements:
“If You Want Me To Stay” & “Party Up”-Dave Eskridge
“Catz Play”, “Let The Band Play”, & “One Twenty”-Adolfo Acosta
“No Lie”-Greg Adams
Read more: http://www.myspace.com/rogersmithmusic#ixzz11pgn5bGK and http://jazzrosco.com/
TOP In Las Vegas : Photos And Videos!
October 12, 2010
We have some live video from Tower of Power's recent performances at the South Point Casino in Las Vegas, and many photos.
To View Photos, Click Here: Vegas Photo Album on Facebook
To View Videos, Click Here: TOP Videos On Vimeo
What Fans Are Saying…
September 20, 2010
From Doug B., Pomona, California:
"Had the pleasure of attending the Average White Band-Tower of Power concert at the L.A. County Fair grandstand on a perfect mid-September night. This is the 2nd time I have experienced this dynamic group duo and I was not disappointed. AWB is a perfect compliment to TOP, as most of the crowd is clearly fans of both groups. Besides their classic hits, Cut the Cake and Pick Up the Pieces, the audience favorites were the sublime, Queen of My Soul and the heartfelt, Soul Searching.
AWB's strong set, primed the pump, for the fountain of volcanic soul that is TOP. Is it possible, after 43 years, for a band to sound better than ever? The answer is most definitely yes. Having heard the 1973 version of the band in the heyday of Lenny Williams, I can say, not only is Larry Braggs the best lead singer TOP has ever had, he is one of the best contemporary soul and pop singers in the business today. Larry's command of the TOP repertoire is amazing. He has literally made every song his own.
The horn section sounds as good or better than any previous lineup. Tom Politzer can toe the line with Lenny Pickett and the brilliance of Adolfo Acosta's solos, especially on Time Will Tell, often exceed the originals. The veterans, Mick Gillette, Doc Kupka, and Emilio Castillo, are as solid as a rock. David Garibaldi, Rocco Prestia, and Roger Smith, are a wonder to behold, a truly supernatural rhythm section. TOP offered up smoking versions of Only So Much Oil, Digging on James Brown-JB Medley, What Is Hip?, and a wonderful new version of This Time It's Real. Larry outdid himself on Me and Mrs. Jones, So Very Hard to Go, and You're Still A Young Man, as the crowd happily sang along.
Bandleader, Emilio, was also in fine vocal form, as he knocked out You Got To Funkifize and Diggin. Even Emilio, seems obviously happy and maybe somewhat surprised, that the band he started 43 years ago, is not only alive and well, but as far as their fans are concerned, sits at the summit of the Great American Pyramid of Urban Soul."
Long live, TOP!
Win A Set Of Strokeland CD’S From Doc
August 30, 2010
WIN A PERSONALLY AUTOGRAPHED SET OF DOC KUPKA PRESENTS CD'S
Do you like East Bay Soul Music? Do you like jazz? Then you should "“LIKE” Strokeland Records on Facebook". Strokeland Records is the home of East Bay Soul Music, founded by Stephen ‘Doc’ Kupka, the Funky Doctor himself from Tower of Power.
Strokeland Records is giving away a full set of CDs of Doc Kupka’s personal recording projects on Strokeland Records, AUTOGRAPHED AND PERSONALIZED for you by the Funky Doctor himself. All you have to do is “LIKE” Strokeland Records page on Facebook for a chance to win. That’s it! If you’ve already done it, don’t worry, you’re in the running.
The contest will end on September 30, 2010. The winner will be randomly chosen from everyone that “likes” Strokeland Records on Facebook on that day. We’ll contact the winner and make arrangements to deliver your personally signed set of five CDs, including BUMPED UP TO FIRST CLASS; DOC GOES HOLLYWOOD; THE LAW ACCORDING TO FRED ROSS; KING OF RETRO COOL; and KICK IT UP A STEP.
If you don’t have a Facebook account, you’ll get the opportunity to sign up. Just follow the link below, stay in touch with everything going on at Strokeland, and put yourself in the running for a great set of autographed CDs! Hope to see you soon on Facebook.
http://www.facebook.com/Strokeland
Check Out Strokeland Records Here: www.strokeland.com
An Afternoon In Boston, Tower Style
July 19, 2010
Jack Silva is a lifelong Tower of Power fan who lives in the Boston, Mass area. Jack is also the creator and editor of the Tower Of Power Horn Section discography which is an important part of this website.
Earlier this year, Jack was able to get the TOP Horns together with some young music students. The following is Jack's story and photos.
AN AFTERNOON IN BOSTON …. TOWER STYLE
Tower of Power Horn Clinic – Brookline High School – March 24, 2010 by Jack Silva
It started several months ago when I received a call from Tom Mullin, a Boston-based commercial real estate appraiser who is a friend of mine. Tom also has a son who plays sax in the Brookline High School Jazz Band, and he called asking what I thought of a TOP Horns Clinic in Boston the next time the band came to town. Hmmm….a call was made to Emilio, and the rest … is … “Tower History”.
It is now March 24th, the morning of TOP’s Wilbur Theatre date in BeanTown. We meet in front of the Double Tree Hotel, home of the famous Scullers Jazz Club, and in short order here comes Emilio Castillo, Stephen “Doc” Kupka, Mic Gillette, Tom Politzer & Adolfo Acosta …. The Tower of Power Horns.
We stuff the guys and their gear into our cars, and off we go to Brookline High School. It was obvious that we took the wrong entrance, as we ended up walking right through the kitchen of the cafeteria, which was pretty funny. Into the music room we march, to the greetings of Carolyn Castellano, director of the jazz band and school orchestra, along with all of the members of both bands. You could tell that the students were very excited about this day, and “the boys” did not disappoint.
The jazz band played several numbers for their “guests”, with members of the TOP Horn section injecting their thoughts and comments. Then it was time for Mimi and the guys to set up and they played a bunch of riffs from some of there biggest tunes. The kids were loving it. After this each musician spoke to the students, giving their bio’s, talking equipment, techniques, and what works and doesn’t work for them. Adolfo, Mic and Tom each did a great job, however when Doc got up he and Emilio not only talked about the history of the band, and the band’s place in music history, they also spoke very openly of their past years of substance abuse; and you could have heard a pin drop in the audience. They were both open about this, sharing very personal parts of their lives, and their sobriety, with the students, and I was fascinated watching the faces of each of them.
After that we all shared lunch, and then the students wanted to play a song for their guests that they had recently learned; “What is Hip”. How surprised were they when the legendary Tower of Power Horns asked if they could play along with them….these kids were playing with royalty, and they all knew it. Pride was busting out all over that room, and I am so glad to have been a witness to it. The afternoon finally came to a close, with the members of the Tower Horns autographing posters for all of the kids…and the kids autographing posters for them as well. How cool was that?????
Later that evening at the sound check all I could think of was the faces on those student musicians … for them it was a “once in a lifetime event” and I am very thankful to have been a part of that day.
More Photos...
Video From The North Sea Jazz Festival
July 14, 2010
From The North Sea Jazz Festival:
Interesting Video Interviews with Emilio and Doc
July 08, 2010
Props to Milpitas Mike, huge TOP fan for sending us these links. A couple of great interviews with Emilio and Doc from 2005:
How Emilio Met The Funky Doctor
Doc: When I First Got Started...
Special Thanks To The NAMM Website, www.namm.org/
The Next Generation of TOP Fans
March 22, 2010
Somebody better buy this kid a set of drumz...
What Fans Are Saying About TOP at House of Blues…
March 13, 2010
...Comments by Morry Payne from the Tower of Power Message Board:
The concert at HOB in Nawlins last Thursday was the best I've ever seen - by anyone. They were flawless. The night started off great as a mutual friend arranged with Mic for us to come in and listen to sound check. Mic Gillette is a great guy and spent quite a bit of time just hanging out and chatting with us. During soundcheck they worked on Walking Up Hip Street, so that will be getting in the rotation soon, I suspect.
It was quite loud in the venue, and my ears are still ringing.
I'm sure I'll miss some, but here is what I remember of the set list (in no particular order):
Stroke Medley
Time Will Tell
On The Serious Side (may have been in soundcheeck)
Loveland
So Very Hard
Ain't Nothin' Stoppin' Us Now
Can't Stand to See the Slaughter
Me and Mrs. Jones
It's Not The Crime
Oil
JB Medley
Hip
Young Man
Morry Payne of the Horndogs
Special TOP Soundcheck Video Footage from 2003
February 22, 2010
This video was shot and edited by Frank Abadie, AKA "Frankie Foto", a longtime Tower of Power fan.
Here is a 10 minute glimpse of some great behind the scenes TOP video.
Enjoy!
Magazine Article From 1975
February 14, 2010
SOUL POWER CIRCA 1975
The year was 1975. Tower of Power was releasing hit singles and albums, touring the country, and appearing on television shows like Soul Train, Midnight Special, and Don Kirshner's Rock Concert.
TOP's discography to date included "East Bay Grease", "Bump City", "Tower of Power", "Back to Oakland", "Drop It In The Slot". The TOP Horns were already a well established unit, lending their talents to dozens of high profile recording artists in addition to performing on their own recordings.
After an appearance at The Tower Theater in Upper Darby, Pa., just outside of Philadelphia, a reporter from Chicago Concert Magazine caught up with Emilio Castillo, Lenny Pickett, Hubert Tubbs and some guests.
The following is the cover and the article from a recently discovered copy of Chicago Concert magazine, June 1975:
..."Seven years is a long time for a band to be together"
In-Depth Interview of Tower of Power
February 13, 2010
Check out this latest interview:
Why Music? an interview with legendary band, TOWER of POWER! from Carla Moreno on Vimeo.
Visit http://www.carlamoreno.com/ for more info on Carla Moreno
What Fans Are Saying About TOP at Jazz Alley…
January 31, 2010
From "Space Needle", a TOP Message Board Member:
NEWS FLASH!!! Dateline, Seattle WA, 1/29/10...................
10:00 P.M., Seattle: Traffic in downtown Seattle ground to a complete halt shortly after 10:00 on Friday evening as thousands of gallons of steaming hot East Bay Grease rolled through the city streets. Officials quickly identified the source of the slick, funky goo as being the Jazz Alley nightclub on 6th Avenue. Upon ascertaining that escape was impossible, crowds flocked on foot to the club, only to find the show was completely sold out. Following is a summary of the rare treat experienced by the fortunate patrons wise enough to secure advance reservations:
* Second show setlist was: Soul Vaccination Intro, Stoke Medley, Only So Much Oil, Stike My Main Nerve, Just Enough and Too Much, Loveland, You're the Most, Time Will Tell, Funkafize, Souled Out, SVHTG, Knock Yourself Out, This Time It's Real (encore tune). Great mix of tunes! Highly cool that the band came out, didn't mess around with talking to the crowd and blasted immediately into the wall of sound that is Soul Vaccination.
* Great to see Mic in the saddle again. He had all the parts down perfectly and was having a great time. He took a few solos, including a nice trombone solo on Strike My Main Nerve, and sounded great. Our group all noted how perfectly the trombone blended with the horn harmonies--pretty amazing how five horns can sound like a solid block of harmonic sound, yet it is possible to pick out each instrument if you listen carefully.
* Very impressed with Jerry Cortez. Dude has the chops (instrumental and vocal) and played some very, very tasty rhythm licks. Also had a couple strong solos. After less than a month with the band, he seems to be fitting into the guitar slot like a key in a lock.
* Little known fact: Roger was born with a third arm and hand. This has to be true. There is no other explanation for how he can play the Hammond like that.
* I have never heard Garibaldi's drums sound so good. Must have been the way the mics were set up on his kit. Very clear, stacatto sound. His snare sounded like a percussion grenade going off each time he hit it (and he hit it a lot!).
* I'm not sure who's running the board for TOP these days, but he deserves a pat on the back. Sound was absolutely perfect. Nice and loud but not muddy/boomy. After all, TOP music is something that can only be truly experienced by hearing it with the ears and feeling it in the gut.
* Looked like Rocco has some new bass amp equipment. He had two cabinets on the bottom which looked like they each housed 15" woofers, and a cabinet on top that holds four 10" mid range speakers. The whole rig was quite a bit taller than him! Sounded great.
* Braggs was Braggs. Great showman, great voice. Hit all the high notes dead on. By the grins on the ladies faces sitting near me, I think they liked him......
* I had the pleasure of visiting with Jan, who flew up from Atlanta to catch the shows. Great guy, and said he absolutely loved the shows and the venue (and he like the Seattle microbrews even more!!)
* Seattle TOP fanatics Tim, Katie, Kevin, Cheri, Nina and Sonny were all there for the second show. They were insane, as usual.....
* My wife and I are heading back down to see both shows tonight (Saturday), presuming we can navigate through the greasy streets!
Later,
Dave
(p.s.: I didn't go to the early Friday show, but nabbed a set list. It was: We Came To Play, Soul w/ S, Can't You See, Serious Side, How Could This Happen 2 Me, Groove, Mrs. Jones, JB Medley, What is Hip, YSAM. Very cool that the band didn't duplicate any of the first set tunes in the second set)
From "Johnny R", A TOP Message Board Member:
Early Thursday Show
I've been going to TOP shows since 1976 and I've got to say that Thursday's early show was one of the tightest Tower of Power shows I've heard in a long, long time. The horns were absolutely smoking. I can't think of a better sax soloist than Tommy P...absolutely powerful. As Space Needle said, the mix was great especially the drums....wow! It was a nice line-up of songs....the same as Space Needle reported with the Friday early show. Is there a better song for Larry Braggs than Me and Mrs. Jones....I don't think so! What a fantastic night. The crowd was large and very appreciative. We sat behind Roger and were absolutely amazed at his work! Had a chance to thank him after the show....what a great guy! Jerry Cortez played great and did a fantastic job with backup vocals. We were a little far from Mic and Adolpho...couldn't see them well, but could hear! Jazz Alley is a super place to see and hear TOP...an excellent night! JohnnyR.
From "BusMaster007", a TOP Message Board Member:
Outstanding...!!!
Sometimes it seems like one particular show is just a little more special than other ones, for whatever reason the listener finds it that way.
Tonight was one of those nights for me.
Second show, Saturday Night.
I was accompanied by my beautiful wife and two daughters.
Before the show, Soulvaccinated stopped over to say 'hello' to us. That was a nice and thoughtful surprise. Thanks for doing that! It was nice to meet you.
During the show, I was just amazed at how the presence of Mic Gillette transformed my perception of the performance.
It was like a trip back in time, hearing and watching him play.
"I remember when...", was what I was thinking.
He gave an onstage compliment to Adolfo after a solo that showed the class that Mic always has had, and it was a great moment to witness that.
There were some moments that the band seemed ultra tight. It's so cool when that happens! Nobody does it like Tower of Power. They simply cannot be copied when it comes to 'tight'.
Everyone seemed to be on the money all night long. I loved it.
All my girls were diggin' it.
Thanks again, Tower of Power, for being such a great experience to watch, listen to and be a part of for all these years!
Read more and post your comments at: Official Tower of Power Message Board
European Interview with Emilio, Doc, and Dave
January 10, 2010
Please click below to read an interview from http://www.Smoothjazz.eu
http://www.smoothjazz.eu/20091120top.html
Tower of Power's artist profile on the SmoothJazz.eu website:
http://www.smoothjazz.eu/index2.php?artist=104
Check It Out!
