Rhode Island’s Own Soundtrack: The Legends Concert 2023

Joining the Fabulous Thunderbirds in 1990 showcased his incredible versatility. While contributing to various iconic bands, Duke embarked on a solo odyssey that traversed diverse genres, including captivating forays into jazz and blues. Collaborations with luminaries like jazz guitarist Herb Ellis and the swing trio New Guitar Summit enriched his musical tapestry. From jump blues to a soulful revisit of rhythm and blues roots and heartfelt tributes to blues classics from yesteryears, Duke Robillard’s musical exploration knows no bounds. In a memorable twist, he even took the stage as Bob Dylan’s guitarist during a tour in 2013. Brace yourself for an exhilarating performance as Duke Robillard brings his multifaceted musical journey to life at the RI Hall of Fame Legends Concert. It’s a musical experience you won’t want to miss!

• Rizzz: In 1973, the Rhode Island music scene witnessed the birth of something extraordinary as three members of the Riverside underground band Powerhouse – guitarists David Tanury and Jim Tait, and drummer Rick Couto – teamed up with saxophonist Bob Weisberger, harmonica and sax virtuoso Joe “Klem” Klimek, and bassist Kenn Reynolds. Together, they gave rise to a musical powerhouse known as RIZZZ, now regarded as one of the most remarkable and successful bands in the state’s music history. RIZZZ’s musical repertoire was a unique fusion of original compositions by Dave and Jim, blending elements of Soul, R&B, Jazz, and improvisation inspired by iconic bands like Santana, the Grateful Dead, and the Allman Brothers. They also drew inspiration from Roots Music and Americana pioneers like The Band, Little Feat, and NRBQ, even before those genres had their distinct names.

Their distinctive style resonated immediately with audiences, leading to packed houses at some of the largest clubs in the state. The addition of pianist Jerry Xavier enriched their sound further, solidifying their place in Rhode Island’s music scene. Following a lineup change in 1978 that brought in keyboardist Paul Sauvageau, guitarist Richard Herzog, and drummer Gary St. Germain, RIZZZ continued to captivate audiences with an even greater focus on original compositions by David, Klem, and Richard. While the band became a sought-after act in college circuits throughout the Northeast, a record deal remained elusive, and they eventually disbanded in 1981. Nevertheless, their uncompromising dedication to their craft served as a blueprint for the burgeoning Rhode Island original music scene of the 1980s. Even 35 years after their disbandment, the enduring influence of RIZZZ continues to resonate.

• Sugar Ray: [Sugar Ray, of Sugar Ray & the Bluetones will be playing with Duke Robillard and the Bluetones will not be playing at this event.] As of their induction into the Rhode Island Music Hall of Fame in 2016, Sugar Ray & The Bluetones were on the cusp of celebrating their remarkable 40th anniversary, with a lineup that still boasted four original members: the dynamic vocalist and harmonica virtuoso, Raymond “Sugar Ray” Norcia, the steady-handed drummer Neil Gouvin, the groovy bassist Michael “Mudcat” Ward, and the soulful keyboardist Anthony Geraci. Guitarist “Monster” Mike Welch, the “newcomer” of the band, was already marking his impressive 16th year within this legendary fold. Sustaining such a partnership over the decades is a feat few achieve in the world of popular music. To put it in perspective, other acts with similarly extensive careers, mining comparable musical territories, feature fewer original members today – The Rolling Stones with three, Fleetwood Mac with two, and Roomful of Blues and The Fabulous Thunderbirds with just one each.

However, Sugar Ray & The Bluetones are far from an ordinary blues band with a front man and backup musicians. While Ray naturally takes the spotlight as the band’s chief composer, harmonica maestro, and lead vocalist, these five musicians are world-class talents with a shared mission. They’ve successfully forged and sustained an authentic artistic co-op where every member is a crucial and indispensable component. Friendship, loyalty, and unwavering dedication all contribute to the enduring success of The Bluetones. This isn’t a group resting on their laurels; quite the contrary. With each new album and tour, they continue to improve and grow in popularity. Their 2014 release at the time of induction, “Living Tear To Tear,” even earned an astonishing seven Blues Music Award nominations. It’s one of those rare cases in contemporary music where, as Aristotle aptly put it, “The whole is greater than the sum of its parts.”