Gritz Dispatch Archives
...Anticipation for Quentin Tarantino's The Hateful Eight...
...Anticipation for Quentin Tarantino's The Hateful Eight... I just re-watched Quentin Tarantino's Django Unchained. It's been three years since Tarantino released a movie. I needed a break from revising stories, and decided to delve into his last read more...
James Franco's Film Adaptation of the Cormac McCarthy Book Child of God
James Franco’s Adaptation of Cormac McCarthy’s Child of God This morning I watched James Franco’s film adaptation of Cormac McCarthy’s third novel Child of God. Since read more...
Ace Atkins' Latest Book The Redeemers
The Redeemers By Ace Atkins I just finished The Redeemers, a fine book by Mississippi writer Ace Atkins.... Born June 28, 1970, in Troy, Alabama, Ace Atkins played football at Auburn University, and even graced the cover of Sports Illustrated in 1993 read more...
View the BBC's Southern Rock Documentary on Swampland
Swampland has added the BBC's new Southern Rock Documentary to it front page. Go here to view it - Swampland Front Page
Jimmy Herring & Warren Haynes Join Phil Lesh at Terrapin Crossroads
The Quintet Regroups In April Phil Lesh's band--The Quintet--will play together for the first time in over a decade on April 26-29 at Terrapin Crossroads.
Athens/Atlanta Band The District Attorneys Debut New Single "Confusion of Trust"
The kind folks at This Is American Music have allowed Swampland to debut the new single from The District Attorneys, a Georgia band with members in both Athens and Atlanta. The song "Confusion of read more...
Lee Bains III & The Glory Fires Release New Song, Album Coming Soon
Lee Bains III & The Glory Fires have been bubbling under the Birmingham scene since Bains cut his teeth playing with Dexateens. With the Dexateens now in a state of read more...
FX's Justified Leads Elmore Leonard To Release New And Old Books About Raylan Givens
Swampland reviewed Elmore Leonard's fine short story collection When the Women Come Out To Dance last year. The collection has been reissued this week with the new title of
Sam Rivers RIP
Jazz Musician Sam Rivers Passes Away At 88 Oklahoma-born jazz musician Sam Rivers passed away on December 26, 2011, in Orlando, Florida at 88.
The 2012 Drive By Truckers Homecoming Shows
The 2012 Drive By Truckers Homecoming Shows On January 12, 13 and 14, the Drive By Truckers will perform homecoming shows at the 40 Watt Club in Athens, Georgia. read more...
Upcoming Billy Bob Thornton Films: Baytown Disco & Jayne Mansfield's Car
Upcoming Billy Bob Thornton Films Billy Bob Thornton spent a few months in Atlanta, Cedartown, Rome and LaGrange, Georgia, last year filming Jayne read more...
The Chris Robinson Brotherhood: December Tour Dates & New Album In January 2012
The Chris Robinson Brotherhood December Dates & Beyond The Chris Robinson Brotherhood formed around the fall of 2010. Within the year, the read more...
Widespread Panic's Upcoming Wood Tour
Widespread Panic's Wood Tour Last month Widespread Panic announced dates for early 2012. This official statement reveals the group's intention for next read more...
Happy Thanksgiving! The Last Waltz (Revisited)...
Thanksgiving Day & The Last Waltz Revisited On Thanksgiving Day in 1976, The Band performed their last show at the Winterland Ballroom in read more...
Lera Lynn Headlines Jacksonville's Natural Life Music Festival
Lera Lynn Headlines Natural Life Music Festival November 20 Athens, Georgia, musician Lera Lynn will headline the Natural Life Music Festival in Jacksonville, Florida, on November 20. The festival began as an event to support the Children's Home Society ten read more...
Levon Helm's Upcoming Midnight Rambles...
Levon Helm's Upcoming Rambles Levon Helm announced upcoming Midnight Rambles that begin this weekend and will continue until the week before Christmas. For this round of Rambles,
Duane Allman: 40 Years Later
Duane Allman: 40 Years Later 40 years ago today Duane Allman was killed in a motorcycle accident at the age of 24 in Macon, Georgia. One of the greatest slide players to ever touch a guitar, Allman played with Aretha Franklin,
Widespread Panic's John Bell Sings National Anthem Before Packers Vs. Vikings Game Today
John Bell Sings National Anthem Before Packers-Vikings Game Widespread Panic's
Lynyrd Skynyrd's Gary Rossington Renews Wedding Vows
Gary Rossington Renews Wedding Vows The Florida Times Union reported
RIP Chuck Ruff
RIP Chuck Ruff We are sad to report the death of another fallen hero. Drummer Chuck Ruff passed away on October 14 in San Francisco after a long illness.
RIP Joel "Taz" DiGregorio
Charlie Daniels Keyboardist Passes Away On Wednesday, October 12, The Charlie Daniels Band keyboardist, "Taz" DiGregorio, died from injuries read more...
Lynyrd Skynyrd In The Studio
Lynyrd Skynyrd In The Studio Lynyrd Skynyrdʼs Gary Rossington is In The Studio for the 35th anniversary of theʻliveʼ classic One More From The Road in Dallas, TX- Oct 10, 2011. North American syndicated Rock radio show In The Studio: The Stories read more...
Chuck Leavell's Mother Nature Network
Chuck Leavell's Mother Nature Network Rolling Stone keyboardist and tree farmer Chuck Leavell started the
The Upcoming 10th Annual John Jarrard Foundation Concert On September 23-24
10th Annual John Jarrard Concert On September 23-24, the 10th Annual John Jarrard Foundation concert will take place. Kennesaw State Music Director
Tom Waits Records with Hank Williams III
Tom Waits Records with Hank Williams III Tom Waits contributed guest vocals on a new Hank Williams III album titled read more...
The 2011 Ponderosa Stomp
The 2011 Ponderosa Stomp The Ninth Annual Ponderosa Stomp will take place on September 16-17 at the Howlin' Wolf in New Orleans. This New Orleans-based roots music festival read more...
Caitlin Rose's New Album & Upcoming Tour with Earle, Isbell and Carll
Caitlin Rose's Own Side Now On September 27, ATO Records will release Caitlin Rose's debut album Own Side Now. Co-produced by Mark Nevers (Lambchop &
Warren Haynes In The Here And Now
Warren Haynes In The Here And Now Warren Haynes just released his latest solo album, Man In Motion. This recent
Drive By Truckers, Bob Dylan & Leon Russell Share A Stage Tonight
Dylan, The Truckers & Leon In Maryland Tonight Tonight in Columbia, Maryland, at The Merriweather Post Pavilion, The Drive By Truckers share a billing with read more...
Wes Freed's Artwork for Drive By Truckers Georgia Theatre Shows
Wes Freed's Drive By Truckers Artwork On August 12th and 13th, The Drive By Truckers will perform for the
Merle Haggard's New Album Working in Tennessee
Merle Haggard's New Album Out In October Vanguard Records will release Merle Haggard's latest album, Working in Tennessee, on October 4. Tonight, 'The Hag' is performing read more...
The Georgia Theatre's Grand Opening Tonight
The Georgia Theatre Grand Opening Tonight The new Georgia Theatre officially opens tonight in Athens, Georgia. The historic theatre burned read more...
Widespread Panic Prepares for Japan's Fuji Rock Festival
John Bell Talks About Panic's First Trip To Japan On July 29 and 30, Widespread Panic will perform at the Fuji Rock Festival in Japan. A few weeks ago I asked read more...
Athens Photographer Jason Thrasher Discusses Filming The Drive By Truckers Go-Go Boots Episodes
Jason Thrasher Discusses Go-Go Boots Episodes Alabama native Jason Thrasher filmed episodes revolving around
The Photography of Adam Smith
The Photography of Adam Smith Today I'd like to shine a light on the photography of Adam Smith. Born in Macon, Georgia, Smith ranks as one of the country's finest music photographers. He attended college in Mississippi, lived in Atlanta for a while and now resides in his read more...
Next Stop: Wes Freed & The Drive By Truckers
Next Stop: Wes Freed & The Drive By Truckers Here's a quick dispatch this morning in between projects...Later this afternoon I'll interview The Drive By read more...
Texas Judge Aims For Willie Nelson
Texas Judge Aims For Willie Nelson This morning Texas judge Becky Dean-Walker said she would not accept Willie Nelson's mailed-in plea read more...
The Avett Brothers Simulcast Red Rocks Concert for NASCAR Race
The Avett Brothers Perform For NASCAR The Avett Brothers' July 9 Red Rocks concert will air on the Charlotte Motor Speedway's HD video board. The idea is NASCAR wants to attract more of read more...
Clarence Clemons RIP
Clarence Clemons RIP (1942-2011) Bruce Springsteen's longtime Virginia-born saxophonist Clarence Clemons died yesterday in Florida. Clemons suffered a stroke on June 12, and passed away from those complications. Bruce Springsteen released this read more...
Summer Merle Haggard Southern Tour Dates
Upcoming Merle Haggard 2011 Southern Tour Dates Country music legend Merle Haggard prepares for his upcoming summer tour. At 74, Haggard still records, tours and writes timeless music. His work casts a long and wide shadow on American music. Over the years, read more...
Georgia Theatre Grand Opening Update
Athens Music Venue Rebuilt On August 1-14, 2011, the Athens, Georgia, music venue--The Georgia Theatre--will host a Grand Opening. The Theatre burned down two years ago. Here are the first scheduled shows at The Georgia Theatre. Stay tuned...
Willie Nelson's Nightly Bus Theater
Willie Nelson's Nightly Bus Theater On this early Sunday evening perhaps some humor is needed. Check out Willie Nelson's June 11 episode of read more...
RIP Philip Walden Jr. (November 15, 1962--June 7, 2011)
Philip Walden JR. RIP "But I'm not gonna let 'em catch me, no
Frankie Toler RIP
With great sadness we pass on the news that drummer David "Frankie" Toler died on Saturday in Bradenton, FL after a long illness stemming from his liver transplant that he received two years ago. Toler was 59.
Texan Astronaut Michael Fossum Takes New ZZ Top Song "Flyin' High" Into Space
NASA Astronaut Michael Fossum, who grew up in McAllen, TX and got his engineering degree at Texas A&M, just left on a space mission little more than two hours ago. Fossum is traveling in a Russian space vehicle as part of a multinational crew going to the International read more...
Official Duane Allman website debuts
Galadrielle Allman, the daughter of late Duane Allman, has helped create a website in tribute to her father - duaneallman.com. Clearly a labor of love, the website provides a home for Duane's legacy as it contains discographies, stories about Duane's life, and a forum for read more...
Getting To Know Alan Paul, A Southern Rock Champion
Guitar World magazine and the Allman Brothers Band. Those are two things our readers are quite familiar with. One man, Alan Paul, serves as an important link read more...
Happy Mother's Day (and new reviews on the way!)
Hi all, Just wanted to let everyone know to be on the lookout for some brand new reviews coming over the next week or so. Tab Benoit's Medicine, Whiskey Myers's Firewater, and Bobby Thompson's By The Hand are all in the queue. Each drips with its own brand of read more...
Saying Goodbye is Hard
It is with a truly heavy heart that I report the passing of one of Southern Rock's finest guitar players, Tommy Crain. Tommy was a 15-year veteran of The Charlie Daniels Band, having co-written many CDB classics including "The Devil Went Down To Georgia." For read more...
Catawompus Vocalist Dies in Auto Mishap
NASHVILLE - We are deeply saddened to hear of the death of our friend Darren Stafford. Darren was the lead singer of one of our favorite Southern Rock bands, Catawompus. Rest in peace, brother. Read about the auto accident that took his life
Henry Paul On Buffalo Show, Available On Demand
If you missed even one minute of THE BUFFALO SHOW Sunday night, you can download and/or listen to our conversations with Bekka Bramlett and Henry Paul of The Outlaws anytime
Buffalo Radio Show Tonight: Doug Jones (Blind Willy), Rick Cash (Silver Travis), and Author A. Lawrence Haskins
Tonight at 7 pm/est, the Buffalo Radio Show welcomes A. Lawrence Haskins, a novelist whose book "The Whisper of Serpents" is an astounding crime drama. Lawrence is also the mastermind behind his own multi-media empire which includes online talk shows and much read more...
Benefit for Buffalo Brings Out Artimus Pyle, Best Upstate SC Bands
Last Saturday was one of those rare and special days. First of all, the weather was amazing, a sunny, warm day for late November. Earlier in the day I had met some new friends, Michael and Sherry Gemme from Maggie Valley, NC for lunch at the legendary Northgate Soda Shop here in read more...
GRITZ Compilation Volume 5 FREE Dowload Ready!
We are proud to present the new Gritz Stone Ground & Southern Compilation Volume Five. A FREE dowload for the readers of GRITZ! This time we have read more...
Buffalo Radio Tonight Features Guests Molly Hatchet and Swampdawamp
Tonight THE BUFFALO RADIO SHOW welcomes Molly Hatchet bandleader Bobby Ingram. Bobby will discuss the history of the band,their upcoming European tour, and their latest album Justice. Also on tap, Gig Michaels, lead read more...
Happy Birthday Duane
Brother Duane Allman's birthday is Saturday, November 20th. Had he lived, he would have turned 64 years old tomorrow. We at GRITZ remember one of Southern Rock's finest this weekend. We miss you Skydog. The link below will lead you to a high-def performace of
Lynyrd Skynyrd Video Collection
What a way to start the week! Here are some great videos from the Ronnie Van Zant era of Lynyrd Skynyrd. -Buffalo
Billy Crain Releases Debut Solo Recording
I have really enjoyed spinning the long awaited debut solo CD from The Outlaws' Billy Crain. It is a good one. Check out my review of Skeletons in the Closet here. Keep it Real. read more...
GRITZ Salutes All Veterans Today, With Thanks
Buffalo's Radio Show Tonight Features Tommy Talton, Freddie Vanderford
Join us for THE BUFFALO RADIO SHOW tonightat 7 PM est when our guests will include
Mark Karan Touring South East
GRITZ contributor Sonny Edwards just called to let me know that one of my favorite artists, Mark Karan, is currently on tour in the Southeast. If you get the chance read more...
Video Of The Day: Pure Grain's "Truckin' Song"
Here's a great video from a band I had on my radio show Sunday night. The band is called Pure Grain. Check 'em out. -Buffalo
Buffalo's Radio Show Tonight Features Dallas Moore, Pure Grain
Be sure to join me for THE BUFFALO SHOW, Special Halloween Edition, tonight at 7 pm est on Blogtalk Radio! We welcome our guests, Outlaw Country artist DALLAS MOORE and the country rocking band PURE GRAIN. We will also have a live call in read more...
Another One For Woody, A New Tribute To Allen Woody Ten Years Later
Following the death of Allen Woody, a founding member of Gov’t Mule and longtime
Buffalo's Movie Reviews Moving Off SIte, Making Room for More Music!
Hi guys! In case anyone wondered, I have moved my movie reviews to a free standing blog site. I feel GRITZ should be all about music. If you still want to keep up with my love of film, visit Buffalo's Trailer read more...
Buffalo's Radio Show Sunday Night Features Barry Lee Harwood, Rickey Godfrey
Hey y'all - please join me for my new internet radio talk show, THE BUFFALO SHOW, this Sunday night at 7 pm est when my guests will be
Dickey Betts Leads Rock & Roll Fantasy Camp Tour Beginning Today
In conjunction with the VH1 Classic series, Rock ‘N’ Roll Fantasy Camp is criss-crossing the nation, bringing a series of “Weekend Warrior” Camps to several towns, including one big Southern city!
Point Blank's Kim Davis is Dead
Another great Southern Rock guitarist has passed on. Kim Davis, from Fort Worth, Texas was instrumental in the great sound of the band Point Blank is dead, reportedly from a self-inflicted gunshot wound earlier this week. Davis partnered with Rusty Burns to create a read more...
The Buffalo Show Debuts On Blogtalk Radio This Sunday with Barry Lee Harwood, Rickey Godfrey
The Buffalo Show debuts this Sunday, October 24th with a couple of very special guests.
Molly Hatchet To Perform at Somer Thompson Candle Light Vigil
Diena Thompson of Jacksonville, Florida found herself living every parent's worst nightmare when her 7-year-old daughter went missing on October 19, 2009. Two days later, in read more...
Benefit for Sid Yochim Will Bring Out Classic Southern Rockers To Nashville Next Week
An amazing line up of musicians will take the stage on October 21st at Whiskey Bent Saloon in Nashville to raise money to help Sid Yochim, a 30 year road veteran of The Charlie Daniels Band. Sid was diagnosed
Warren Haynes Christmas Jam to Feature Gregg Allman, Steve Miller, Drive By Truckers
The Warren Haynes' Christmas Jam returns to Asheville on December 11 and the guest lineup is stellar. The event's reputation as a marathon concert featuring stellar performances read more...
Rickey Godfrey Releases Hot New CD, Returns to SC for Hometown Shows This Weekend
Our friend Rickey Godfrey has a new CD out called "Nasty Man" and it is just what the doctor ordered. Rickey returns to the rootsy, Suuthern Rock and blues sound of his
Friends Rally To Help Buffalo
Dear Friends. As you may already know, Buffalo has had quite a rough year with eye issues that have prevented him from working. He has undergone a number of surgeries and has been mostly blind for the biggest part of the year and now faces costly cataract surgery. Some of read more...
Coach Leonard Skinner Dead at 77
Leonard Skinner, the basketball coach and gym teacher whose name inspired the legendary Lynyrd Skynyrd, died in his sleep early Monday morning, September 20, 2010, at the age of read more...
9/11 and a New CD From Charlie Daniels
Today is the nine year anniversary of the 9/11 and a perfect day to post my review of the new Charlie Daniels Band album, Land That I Love, a great collection of patriotic songs
Download the New Gritz Compilation CD Free
The new GRITZ STONE GROUND & SOUTHERN COMPILATION VOLUME 4 is ready for FREE DOWNLOADING! We are extremely pleased to present the September edition featuring an amazing lineup of songs, new read more...
Buffalo Experiencing Eye Problems Again
Buffalo is again having serious vision problems. He is receivving treatment and hopes to level out soon. Please keep him in your thoughts and prayers Thank you.. Swampland.com
Doc Holliday Show Will Benefit Tommy Redd This Weekend
Doc Holliday will play a benefit concert this Saturday, August 14 at Kipper’s in Warner Robbins, Georgia. All funds will go to Tommy Redd of Nantucket whose wife recently passed away from cancer. Rob Walker will be a special guest, and tickets are $20 at the door. There will read more...
Spotlight On Ed King
One of Southern Rock's greatest guitar slingers is Ed King, the former member of Strawbery Alarm Clock who went on to legendary status in Lynyrd Skynyrd. Today, we revisit our read more...
Ronnie Van Zant Featured in Legends Scrapbook
Check out our latest Legends of Southern Rock Photo Scrapbook page featuring the great Ronnie Van Zant! - read more...
Still More Rare Lynyrd Skynyrd Video
GRITZ Movie Reviews: Salt, Dinner For Schmucks
SALT is a pretty darn good action movie, and Angelina Jolie has really turned into the female Jason Statham, except a heck of a lot prettier. But for the life of me I don’t know why
Gritzfest II Videos Feature Bonnie Bramlett
We really had a great time at GRITZFEST II back in February, and are happy to present some video from that magical night, shot by Rick Broyles and read more...
Paul Thorn is Back with Another Good One
Even More Rare Lynyrd Skynyrd Video
On The Road Again with Bill Kirchen
For your Sunday reading pleasure, we are happy to offer up a special article from long time GRITZ contributor JC Juanis on the new album and tour of read more...
Silver Travis Show Was A Tuckerized Southern Rock Reunion
Silver Travis Michael Buffalo Smith and Guests The Handlebar, Greenville, SC July 23, 2010 It was nothing short of a family reunion. After all, I had worked with the Silver Travis band back in the early 1980’s as read more...
Buffalo and Former Marshall Tucker Members Join Silver Travis CD Party Tonight
Tonight is the big CD Release party for SILVER TRAVIS
Upcoming Benefits and Shows
A very special benefit concert is being held for guitarist Rick Kurtz (Delbert McClinton, many others) on Sunday, August 8, 2010 from 3-8 PM at Moonlight On The Mountain in Birmingham, AL. There will only be 100 tickets sold for the intimate read more...
GRITZ Movie Reviews: Inception Rocks
INCEPTION is a very complicated film. Leonard DeCaprio stars along with Ellen Page and the beautiful Marion Cotillard in a bizzaro world story of controlling people’s lives
More Rare Skynyrd Videos Posted
Today we are happy to share some more Lynyrd Skynyrd video from the very cool collection of Rita Ann VanZant Song. The first video is a slide show of rare Skynyrd images with the most read more...
Rare Video Find: Skynyrd, Outlaws Jam Together 1976
It is truly rare these days for me to see a video I have not seen before from the history of Southern Rock. When Rebyll called last night and told me about this one, I could hardly wait to see it. From Winterland, 1976,
Molly Hatchet is Out For Justice: Our Exclusive Bobby Ingram Interview
Molly Hatchet is back with a career defining new release, a new tour and a renewed spirit. I spoke with Bobby Ingram yesterday about their read more...
Classic Video: Molly Hatchet Live, 1979
The Jam 4 George: The Lost Pictures
We just discovered a bunch of pictures from the 2007 Jam 4 George benefit, and have posted them as the latest page in our Legends of read more...
Walter Trout Finds The Common Ground
Want to hear something just earth shaking good? Two words. Walter Trout. Two ,ore words. Common Ground. Check it out, and please let me know if you read more...
Black Death in Louisiana and The Gulf
Hurricane Katrina was a natural disaster. This oil spill is a man made disaster. There’s a big difference. This whole issue has made me pig biting mad. As I watched the evening news last night I was appalled and sickened by the oil damage to the beautiful gulf coast. The read more...
Cowboy Ray Johnson, Father of Swamper Jimmy Johnson, Dead at 89
Ray Johnson, age 89, a native of Iuka, Miss., lived in Sheffield, Alabama for more than 60 years, working until retirement as a crane operator at Reynold's Aluminum, and heading one of the most prominent families in the Muscle Shoals music industry.
Video of the Day: The Charlie Daniels Band, 1975
GRITZ Holiday Movie Reviews
I wasn’t really excited about ECLIPSE: TWILIGHT SAGA. I mean, it is a multi-million dollar franchise, and there were at least half a bazillion read more...
Charlie Daniels Speaks with GRITZ About The Gulf Oil Crisis and More
by Michael Buffalo Smith Charlie Daniels has had quite a year. More recording, non-stop touring and recovering from a stroke, and he is still doing it to it as fast as he can go. And then there's the now legendary Geico commercial. I spoke with Charlie yesterday to read more...
Spotlight Videos: Jo Jo Billingsley
Here's a video tribute to our friend Jo Jo Billingsley.
Jo Jo Billingsley Memorial Scheduled
There will be a memorial service for Jo Jo Billingsley White at Spirit Life Church of God in Cullman, Alabama on June 27th at 2 PM. Directions: Follow I-65 TO EXIT 310 Go east on hwy 157 approximately three blocks. There is a Texaco with a Wendys inside. Turn Right on St. read more...
My Birthday with The DMV
It’s been a couple of crazy days. My birthday yesterday started out really great. I checked my personal Facebook page and there were just so many Happy Birthday messages. Blew my mind. Thanks to everyone for the kind messages. Around read more...
For The Love of JoJo Billingsley; We'll Miss You My Friend
My dear friend JoJo Billingsley White this morning lost her battle with cancer. Like so many oithers, I am deeply saddened, but at the
Gregg Allman Undergoes Succesful Liver Transplant
Gregg Allman underwent a successful liver transplant operation at the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, FL yesterday morning, Wednesday, June 23, according to our friends Lana and Rowland at the official read more...
Spotlight Video: Bonnie Bramlett and Delbert McClinton 1981
What a way to start the week! My buddy Peter Cross just informed me that someone has posted the two performances of "Givin' it up for Your Love" and "Shotgun Rider" from Saturday Night Live 1981 with
Lynyrd Skynyrd Receives Congressional Record Tribute at U.S. Capitol
Johnny Van Zant, Gary Rossington and Rick read more...
Wet Willie Backup Singer Ella Brown Avery Dead at 62
Ella Brown Avery, 62 died on Friday, June 11, 2010 in Warner Robins, Georgia after a long illness. Ella sang backup for Jimmy Hall as one half of "The Williettes" in the band Wet Willie, performing read more...
Barry Lee Harwood EIght Years Later: The GRITZ Interview
Eight years ago Scott Greene interviewed former Rossington Collins Band member Barry Lee Harwood for GRITZ. At the time, Barry Lee was read more...
Tom Coerver Working On New Album in Louisiana
Baton Rouge, LA musician Tom Coerver has been at it for a long time, from his days with national recording act China read more...
New Zac Brown Band Live CD is a Winner
Ladies and gentlemen, we have our "winner of the week," the new double-live album from The Zac Brown Band & Friends called Pass the Jar. The event, read more...
Candy Coburn is a Country Rockin' Treasure
Candy Coburn is one rocking country read more...
Point Blank's Phillip Petty Dead at 59
We here at GRITZ/Swampland are deeply saddened to hear of the death of Point Blank bassist Phillip Petty, 59. Phil passed away last night, Monday, June 7, 2010. He had been read more...
Video Flashback: Molly Hatchet TV Interview
A great 1980's video interview with Danny Joe Brown, Duane Roland, Riff West, John Galvin, Bruce Crump and Bobby Ingram. Look at all the hair on these fellas! -Buffalo
Freedom and The Zac Brown Band
I've been thinking a lot today about freedom. It's something we all too often take for granted. Sometimes it seems the old "out of sight out of mind" thing applies when it comes to remembering our read more...
Ragged Jack is My Kind of Band
Ragged Jack is one fine band. The group is lead by singer-somgwriter Lyman Ellerman. Their debut CD is called Life is a Wheel, and it's today's
Autism Movement Therapy Benefit Jam On June 9th
A very special benefit concert will be held on June 9th in Agoura Hills, California starring Alan Parsons, The Good Listeners, Triple Cobra, Jack Dill, Grey De Lisle, Chadwick, The Vibe Tribe with Susan Shel
New Free GRITZ Compilation Download Has Arrived!
The third "Gritz Stone Ground & Southern" compilation is available for FREE DOWLOAD! It features another mixture of legendary Southern rockers along with the very best of the new breed of artists. Barry Lee Harwood, the former guitar slinger
Molly Hatchet: Remembering Danny Joe Brown
Continuing with our month long tribute to Molly Hatchet, we revisit an interview I had the pleasure of conducting back in November of 1999 with read more...
Molly Hatchet's New Album is a Rocker
Beginning our month long tribute to Molly Hatchet, we are happy to post today a review of the band's excellent new release, Justice.
London Calling Thomas Wynn & The Believers
Thomas Wynn & The Believers are one of the tightest Southern rock bands on the scene today, and boy howdy do they come by it honestly.
Buffalo's This Week in Movies: Prince of Persia, Letters to Juliet, Robin Hood, Iron Man 2
It’s been quite a while since I was able to review movies, but I have been lucky enough to catch a few over the past couple of weeks. Here are my thoughts. Brief and to the
Once an Outlaw: An Interview with Former Outlaws Member Chuck Glass
As a special treat for the Holiday, I'd like to present an interview passed on to us by my Facebook friend Hank Hart. It's a cool conversation with Nashville musician and read more...
Memorial Day Thank Yous
First of all, I want to send out my personal THANK YOU to all the brave men and women who have fought for our country over the years, as well as their families who often made the ultimate sacrafice for our freedom. We should NEVER forget them. And while we read more...
Video of The Day: Aaron Kelly On Larry King Live
This week Larry King had all of the American idol finalists on his show. Here is a clip with our buddy Aaron Kelly and some of the other Idols. Keep it Real. Keep it read more...
Swampland's Own Michael Buffalo Smith Featured On ALH Live! Today
Hey gang. I am honored that writer/reporter A. Lawrence Haskins chose to feature a video interview with myself on his ALH Live! website today. Check it out read more...
American Idol Finale Brings Aaron Kelly and Stars of The 70's Out To Play
The American Idol finale was one of the best ever, especially for folks in my generation. Tons of surprise guests, with the lion's share being stars of the seventies and eighties. People like Chicago, Alice Cooper, Joe Cocker and The Bee Gees, along with Janet Jackson, read more...
Promise To Thomas; Buffalo's Top Ten
Be sure to check out Rebyll's photos and review from the Promise To Thomas benefit here. And here are my suggestions for ten awesome tracks to rock out to this week.
Third Time is a Charm for Bo Bice
Hey gang. Former American Idol runner up Bo Bice has a HOT new album out. You gotta check it out. Read my review here, and be sure to vivit the link below for "all things Bo." Keep it Real. Keep it read more...
Video of the Day: Barry Lee Harwood
As a follow up to yesterday's review of the new CD from Barry Lee Harwood, we'd like to share this video produced by Barry Lee himself that will g1ve you more insight into the man and his music. Keep it Real. Keep it Southern. Buffalo
Barry Lee Harwood Comes Back Strong
Say you need a good album to listen to this weekend" Boy do I have a good one for you. The new release from Barry Lee Harwood. Check out my review here, and look for our new interview with read more...
Bo Bice Donates All Profits from New Record to Nashville Flood Relief
Bo Bice has announced that he will donate all of his proceeds from his single, “Long Road Back,” to a variety of flood assistance programs that are aiding victims of the recent Nashville-area flooding disaster. Bice made the announcement during an interview on the read more...
Spotlight on Former American Idol Bo Bice
Southern Rocker and former American Idol Bo Bice has a hot new country and Southern Rock album out. Look for a review in GRITZ soon. For now, we want to spotlight our archived inbterview with this good ol' Alabama rock and roller, in which he told us just how he read more...
Promise to Thomas is First of Four Excellent Southern Rock Festivals Coming Soon
Several benefits and outdoor festivals are on tap for the coming months, including a Southern Rock benefit in North Carolina this weekend, Promise To Thomas is a benefit show that will take place tomorrow, May 9th at 487 Blossom Ferry Rd. read more...
Nashville Music Community Devistated By Last Weekend's Floods
Here's a pretty comprehensive article from CMT on the damage to Nashville's music community in the wake of last weekend's flooding. Absolutely terrible, and so hard to believe. We continue to keep all of our Music City friends in our thoughts and prayers.
American Idol Aaron Kelly's Friends Speak Out
Our buddy Aaron Kelly wowed the audience again last night with his own take on a Sinatra classic during
Prayers for Victims of Nashville Floods
Our thoughts and prayers go out to our many friends on Nashville in the wake of the terrible flooding. See the CNN News video and link to photos and story below. -Michael Buffalo
Download Our Latest Compilation Before It's Too Late
There are only a few days left for you to download the latest Stone Ground and Southern digital compilation. Dixie Tabernacle featuring Jimmy Hall, Bekka Bramlett, Caroline Aiken, Swampdawamp and many more great tracks! We have a great NEW compilation read more...
Great New Music: Toler Townsend Band and Preacher Stone
I sure hope everyone is having a great weekend. As for me and my puppy dog, we have been rocking out on a few of the great CDs I have wanted to review since back before the temporary blindness. And brothers and sisters, there have been some fine releases, including read more...
Swampland Contributor Derek Halsey Wins Country Music Writing Award
Derek Halsey of Cincinatti, Ohio has been a contributor to GRITZ since the arly days, and he is finally being recognized for his read more...
Video Spotlight: Zac Brown Band Just Gets Better and Better
I am a real fan of The Zac Brown Band. These guys really get it. They blend all their influences from country, Southern Rock, and other great seventies music like Jimmy Buffett, into a totally unique sound. Today we spotlight the ZBB with their latest read more...
State of South Carolina to Honor Harpist Freddie Vanderford
The following is a press release regarding a Heritage Award to be presented to a dear friend and fellow South Carolina Musician, Freddie Vanderford. I read more...
Poor Elijah Musicians Fund Honors Delaney Bramlett; Concert to Star Bonnie Bramlett
Poor Elijah is Comin' Home to Atlanta on June 18th. If you are a fan of Delaney & Bonnie, or if you just believe in
Aaron Remains in the Running on American Idol
Congratulations to Aaron Kelly once again, read more...
Tuesday CD Reviews: Marshall Tucker, Christine Ohlman
Hi guys. Well, it’s time to play catch up. During my recent down time, I received several really good new CD releases, so I will be posting more reviews than usual for a while. After all, we don’t want you guys to miss out on anything great like the two we are featuring read more...
Aaron Kelly Still On Track To Be American Idol
During my blackout, one thing I really looked forward to each week was American Idol. The main reason being my little buddy Aaron Kelly. I have been rooting for Aaron the whole time and now he is in the Top 7. How cool is that? Aaron is a great singer that I read more...
Buffalo Roaming: GRITZFEST II : A Review
by Michael Buffalo Smith Now where were we? On February 25th, 2010 I was staying at the Hotel Preston in Nashville with my new friends Gig Michaels and Mark Carlyle of the band Swampdawamp. We had driven in through the cold rains the night before. By the time read more...
Eyesight to the Blind!
Buffalo is back - well, almost. The eye doctor said yesterday that my vision is getting better and better and that I should be back to full capacity within two weeks. Praise the Lord. Meanwhile, I discovered this morning that I can see clearly enough to read more...
Photographer Jim Marshall Passes Away
Our good friend John Lyndon has allowed Swampland to post a remembrance of Jim Marshall who passed away on Wednesday March 24. For those unfamiliar with Jim Marshall the man, most will know his work. This is from
How Duane Allman and Sam The Sham Gave Clapton His "Key To The Highway"
Athens, GA attorney John Lyndon, brother of the late ABB road manager Twiggs Lyndon, passed on a remembrance right before the Allmans started their run of NYC shows last night. He was generous enough to allow us to share it with everyone: I saw Eric read more...
Allman Brothers NYC Run Begins Tonight!
We were hoping that Michael Buffalo would be ready to go tonight, but his eyes still aren't cooperating. He wanted to assure everyone that he will review all of the Allman Brothers Band shows via Moogis once he is able. In the meantime, we know everyone is read more...
Update From Michael Buffalo
Hello to all of the GRITZ readers. The editorial staff at Swampland wants to pass on a message from Michael Buffalo. He wants to inform everyone that complications from recent eye surgery have left him temporarily unable write dispatches or read emails for the read more...
Buffalo Roaming: Gritzfest, Aaron Kelly and Swampdawamp
It's clear but cold here in Nashville today, and I have been having a relaxing day here at the Hotel Preston. Mark and Gig told me it is a great place and now I know. The beds are amazingly comfortable and the staff are all just real nice folks. I took a lunch meeting read more...
The Road to Gritzfest: Buffalo Roaming Again
Well it looks like ol' Buffalo will be roaming once again a little later this evening. As y'all know by now, we have the big Gritzfest II coming to Bama on Friday, and as you also most likely know, I am still not up to par with my vision following last week's laser read more...
Randall Bramblett Releases a Different Kind of Album
Many apologies for the lack of posts this past week. As many of you know I had some laser eye surgery last Monday, and am just now beginning to see again, slowly but surely. For the Tuesday CD spotlight, I am happy to feature a review of a beautiful new album read more...
Our Own American Idol: Aaron Kelly
I first met Aaron Kelly and his mom several years ago at our annual Angelus gathering in Florida. Even then, he must have been ten or eleven years old, we all knew he had star read more...
Jimmy Hall Added to GRITZFEST LIneup
We are happy to announce the addition of Jimmy Hall to the lineup for GRITZFEST II, to be held at Crossroads Music Hall in Huntsville, Alabama on Friday evening, February 26th beginning at 7:30 PM. The concert will benefit GRITZ Charities, with portions of proceeds going to read more...
GRITZ Presents All New Volume II Free Compilation Download
The second "Gritz Stone Ground & Southern" compilation is now available! The FREE album download features another
Crazy Heart Deserves an Oscar
In Crazy Heart, Jeff Bridges stars as a former country star named Bad Blake, a character that is a mix of Merle Haggard, Waylon Jennings and Billy Joe Shaver, with a strong physical resemblance to Kris Kristofferson. He had a couple of chart hits once upon a time, but these read more...
The Saints Go Marchin' In! What a Game!
Who dat? I nearly levitated from my sofa during the final minutes of the big game as the New Orleans Saints beat the Colts 31 - 17. Of course the real action came in the second half with the onside kick followed by Porter’s 74 yard interception run. All I can say is read more...
Buffalo's Book Club: The Story of Missouri's Finest Southern Rock Band
Man oh man, I owe Supe Granda a big ol' apology. I started writing a review of his fine book nearly a year ago, and almost managed to let it slip read more...
Simple Man Cruise Photos Added to Legends Scrapbook
By all accounts the 2010 Simple Man Cruise was nothing short of a Southern Rock party, and our man on the street - or ocean, as he case may be, Tom Bell turned in some awesome pictures of the bands.
Tuesday CD Review: Crazy Heart is Chock Full of Real, Honest Country Music
Our Tuesday review features one fine soundtrack album. An amazing album produced by T-Bone Burnett that finds Hollywood actors singing their best since Walk The Line. Read my review of Crazy Heart read more...
Zac Brown Band, Derek Trucks Band, Kings of Leon Win Grammys
Well, I must admit I really enjoyed most of last night's Grammy Awards telecast. There were some interesting moments to be sure. Of course we were read more...
Buffalo's This Week in Movies, February 1, 2010
THE EDGE OF DARKNESS seems at first to be a carbon copy of last year’s Taken, but once you get into it, you come to realize read more...
Buffalo's Top Ten List For The Week of January 29, 2010
Howdy guys. Well it's Friday and we are under a winter storm warning so I have assembled a playlist that i feel will warm up anyone's cold day. Check 'em out. 1. Lady
Paul Hornsby Among Inductees to Alabama Music Hall of Fame 2010
Former Capricorn Records producer and musician Paul Hornsby is among those chosen for induction into The Alabama Music Hall read more...
Tuesday Reviews: Joe Pitts, Atomic Boogie
Today we feature reviews of a couple of mighty fine records. One is a rockabilly trio from Atlanta, Georgia and the other a blues guitarist from Arkansas. I truly believe you will like them both. Check out my reviews of Joe Pitts' fine album
Interview Spotlight: Tommy Talton
One of the finest guitarists of the Southern Rock era is Tommy Talton. Along with Scott Boyer, Talton headed up the seventies band Cowboy, one of the many great acts on the Capricorn read more...
GRITZFEST II Coming To Huntsville, Alabama February 26th
A little less than five years after the first highly successful GRITZFEST, Swampland.com, Gritz.net and Concerts South are proud to announce a very special all-star benefit show to be held at Crossroads Music Hall in Huntsville, Alabama on Friday evening, February 26th beginning at read more...
Get Your Free GRITZ Album Download Before It Expires
Hey gang, time is running out to get your FREE download of our first Stone Ground & Southern digital CD. The download link will expire when we upload the February compilation. Don't miss out on this great collection of tracks from The Tommy Talton read more...
Video Spotlight: Bekka Bramlett
Here are a couple of great videos of Bekka Bramlett performing live at 3rd & Lindsey in Nashville. The first song is the old r&b classic "Everybody Loves a Winner," a song her father
Charlie Daniels Suffers Mild Stroke
Tuesday Review: Bekka Bramlett - Win a Free Copy
Man oh man, am I excited. I am happy as a lark to present my review of the amazing new album from Bekka Bramlett, and even happier to tell you we have a few copies to give away. read more...
Swamp Music: Swampdawamp's Gig Michaels Talks About The Skynyrd Cruise, Living The Dream and Whiskey
One of my favorite bands these days is Charlotte's Swampdawamp, the band that fans voted onto the Lynyrd Skynyrd Simple Man Cruise which sets sail this week. GRITZ caught uo with lead singer Gig Michaels to talk about the new album, the cruise and the state of the nation. Check read more...
Sunday Southern Rock Videos
Here are a few videos for your Sunday spotlighting some of the artists featured on our free Stone Ground & Southern Compilation. Check 'em out and if you haven't yet downloaded your free album,
Valantinus: Blood Brothers: A Different Kind of Vampire Novel
I met Ziana de Bethune on Facebook, and before I knew it, I was entranced by her writing. While she lives in Canada and has no ties to the South, I still wanted read more...
Buffalo's This Week in Movies, January 15th, 2010; Lovely Bones, Youth in Revolt, Daybreakers
THE LOVELY BONES I never had a chance to read Alice Sebold's best-selling novel (yet) but my wife did a few years ago and she was really excited about seeing the film. After seeing it today I understood why.
The GRITZ Top Ten for Friday, January 15, 2010
1. Color My Sleep Tommy Talton Band Tommy Talton is pure magic. One of my very favorite songwriters (and has been since his days with Cowboy in the seventies) he is also one of the tastiest guitar players in all if music.
Thoughts On The Stone Ground Compilation and an Amanda Martin Video
Happy Thursday! I'll bet I'm he first one to say that to you, huh? Just a quick note to say that our debut digital Compilation is doing really well and we are very pleased that so many of you are digging the music. If you have yet to experience the bombastic read more...
Skinny Molly Gets Political
Skinny Molly will be appearing on former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee’s show “Huckabee” on Fox News this Saturday, January 16, 2010 (8:00 p.m. EST and 7:00 p.m. CST). The band will be
Download The New GRITZ Digital Compilation FREE
It's quite a special day in the Swampland. Today we begin our monthly series of digital music compilations. and every month we will be offering you the GRITZ reader a FREE download of new music from many of the artists you read about here in GRITZ. The first read more...
No Holds Barred: Dusty Rhodes
We continue with our ongoing look at pro-wrestling in the South during the seventies. Another one of my all-time farorite wrestlers is the one and only “American Dream” Dusty Rhodes. During the seventies and into the early eighties I was fortunate enough read more...
Buffalo's Weekend Rant: The Good Ol’ Days
Okay, I have officially become my father. It seems there’s not a day that passes that I don’t at least once make a comment about “the good ol’ days” and how things “weren’t that way in my day.” It seems like only read more...
Allman News: Gregg's New Album, Change of Venue for Annual Beacon Run
Lots of Allman Brothers news is rolling in. I am happy to report that Gregg Allman is finishing up his first read more...
Capricorn Records Tribute Page Updated
Just a heads up for all you Capricorn Records era fans. We have updated our Capricorn page with many more new links to archived features, interviews and photos.
In Spartanburg, SC We're All About The Beacon
We Spartans have known about it since childhood, but now thanks to a cool TV show and You Tube, you can see what all the excitement is about. The World Famous Beacon Drive-In. Buffalo says "Check it out." Keep moving! It is fine to pass in line! Keep read more...
Amanda Shires' and Her Texas Fiddle
For our Tuesday review we are happy to feature the untra-talented Texas fiddler Amanda Shires and her great new release. Derek Halsey turns in an excellent review. Check it out here. Keep it Real. read more...
Let's Get Frank Fenter into The Hall of Fame
Freank Fenter is a true "unsung hero" of Southern Rock. Read more about the Capricorn Records executive and the drive to see him inducted into the Georgia Music Hall of Fame
The Best Movies of 2009
1. Avatar I find it almost funny that the very last film I saw in 2009 turns out to be the best movie of the year, and read more...
Looking Back at 2009
On the last day of 2009, I thought it only made sense to recount the ten most imortant events of the year from the GRITZ perspective. 1. The Allman Brothers Band read more...
Video: In The Studio with Gov't Mule
Today's videos pay tribute to this week's featured album artist, the mighty Gov't Mule. We are happy to share a 15-part video documentary from behind the scenes at the recording of
Tuesday Album Review: Gov't Mule Rocks
It's Tuesday and that means our latest CD review. Today we take a listen to the newest epic from Gov't Mule, one of their finest albums ever Read the review of By a Thread here. Buffalo says read more...
Quarternotes: News From The World of Gritz
The always amazing Billy Joe Shaver is set to launch several shows of what he calls "Bottom Dollar" Concerts - only charging a buck for admission in these hard times. Shaver’s co-writer on the song “Bottom Dollar,” Alabama native read more...
Christmas Wish
Here's wishing all of yo a happy and joy filled Christmas and all the love you can possibly dream of. Happy Happy, Joy Joy! Peace. Buffalo
Cormac McCarthy's "The Road" Looks Good On The Big Screen
Last year at Christmas I received a copy of Cormac McCarthy’s novel The Road. I had no idea what the book was about, but I had really enjoyed some of his earlier read more...
Jerry Douglas Does Christmas Right
Well, the big day is almost upon us, and Derek Halsey has turned in a nice review of the new Christmas album by Jerry Douglas. Judging from his review, this is one you need to rush out and pick up for the big Christmas Eve party. Read the
Janis Joplin Guitarist James Gurley Passes
I was truly saddened when I heard from J.C. Juanis this morning that our old friend James Gurley had passed away.
Jo Jo Billingsley Recovering From Emergency Cancer Surgery
Our thoughts and prayers go out to our dear friend JoJo Billingsley White, who was diagnosed this week with abdominal cancer. Jo Jo was admitted to the UAB Hospital in Birmingham, Alabama, read more...
A Little Help From My Friends: A Big Thank You
I would like to say a public “thank you” to those who helped us out during the past few months. Some donated items for an auction to help with medical bills and equipment, while others made cash and in kind donations to help both GRITZ and the ol’ Buffalo himself. read more...
The GRITZ Top Ten for Friday, December 18, 2009
In light of Dickey Betts’ announcement that he is retiring from the road, I decided that this week’s Top Ten should be Dickey's ten best tracks outside the Allman brothers Band. Let me know what you think. 1. Bougainvillaea
Dickey Betts Retires From The Road
In New York City, a place where Dickey Betts had had many great achievements, he played what will possibly become his last touring date on read more...
The Life of Buffalo: A Brief Explaination
Greetings Fellow Travelers I wanted to take just a moment to explain what has been going on this week. Our usual postings have been somewhat thrown off track due to personal events in the life
Video Spotlight: Preacher Stone
Today we feature some cool video of Preacher Stone, a great band from North Carolina I really think you will like. Preacher Stone will be one of the artists featured on our first Homegrown and Handpicked Digital Compilation album, coming January 1st. Keep it Real. Keep read more...
Allman Brothers Band Museum Opens in Macon
Last weekend saw the initial opening of the new Allman Brothers Band Museum in Macon, Georgia. GRITZ writer John Charles Griffin was there and tells us all about it.
The Best Releases of 2009
Well, it’s time once again to run down the GRITZ Best Albums of 2009. It wasn’t easy. There was a lot of good music this year, but we narrowed it down to our twenty best. Let us know what you think.
The GRITZ Top Ten for Friday, December 11, 2009
1. “Monday Morning Meltdown” Gov’t Mule From their new (and red hot) release. Just one of Warren Haynes’ amazing new compositions. Got Mule? 2. “Tougher read more...
Video Spotlight: The Angelus End Jam with Charlie Daniels
Here's a nice video of the end jam on "The Devil Went Down to Georgia" from Angelus last Saturday night. The cameraman was concentrating on 12-year old performer Suite Caroline (I would too if she was my daughter!), but if you look closely at the beginning read more...
Buffalo Roaming: The Angelus, A 2009 Retrospective
by Michael Buffalo Smith DAY ONE: THURSDAY It was the 19th annual Angelus Golf Tournament and Country Concert down in Tampa, Florida, and my own ninth event in a row. This year’s event was as much fun as ever, filled with great read more...
Buffalo Roaming Again: Back to The Angelus
The Angelus weekend is well under way and we are having a ball as usual. Charlie Daniels and Charlie Hayward jammed with N -Kahootz last night during the golf Pairing Party (see photo). Check back later for a full report. Keep it Real. Keep it read more...
The Who Tragedy: 30 Years Ago Today
I was never a fan of "festival seating" at concerts. I recall many times getting caught up in the raging crowds coming into shows. It was a scary situation. One show in particular I will never forget. It was at the old Greenville Memorial Auditorium, and read more...
Video Spotlight: Betts, Hall Leavell and Trucks (BHLT)
Back in 1982 and '83 there was a short lived Southern Rock supergroup called BHLT. The band featured Dickey Betts, Jimmy Hall, Chuck Leavell and Butch Trucks with Rook Goldflies on bass. I had heard them on a live radio show, but until now I had never seen them perform read more...
Allman Brothers Museum Opens This Weekend in Macon
Kirk West and the rest of the gang open the doors to the Big House Museum on Vineville Avenue in Macon, Georgia this weekend. Read all about it here, and check back for photos and more here in GRITZ next read more...
Tuesday Review: Willie Nelson and Asleep at the Wheel
Look up "icon" in the dictionary and you are liable as not to find a picture of Willie Nelson. Always a favorite here at GRITZ, Nelson has played virtually every type of music with a plethora of great musicians. Now he makes good on a plan he made over 30 years read more...
Rock Hall of Fame Concert Blew My Mind; Monday Spotlight Billy Gibbons
I can honestly say that I have never experienced the feeling I had last night since the mid-seventies. You see, back then I lived for Friday nights. No matter how tired or sleepy I was, I wouldalways force myself to watch In Concert on ABC-TV at 11:30 pm, and then
New Skynyrd Photos Added to Scrapbook
Hi Y'all. Check out the latest page added to our Legends of Southern Rock Photo Scrapbook, thanks to reader Mike Sims. Some cool pictures of Lynyrd Skynyrd he shot at their read more...
The GRITZ Top Ten for Friday, November 27, 2009
Every Friday GRITZ brings you our “Top Ten,” a playlist of songs past and present that we have been listening too here in the office - songs you just can’t live without. Check ‘em out and please leave a comment. 1. Amos Moses
Spotlight: New Outlaws Page Added to Legends Scrapbook
Greetings fellow travelers... I trust everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving day and had plenty of turkey. At least I hope so! We have added a new page to the Legends of Southern Rock Photo Scrapbook, featuring some classic and new pictures of one of our favorite read more...
Video Spotlight: The Outlaws
Tuesday Review: Charlie Daniels' Bluegrass Christmas
Well, it's gettin' to be that time of year again. Time for the Christmas music to help set the mood for the Holidays. Two of my favorite albums to pull out and play read more...
Interview of the Week: The Late Great Ace Moreland
One of the most interesting characters I was fortunate enough to get to know during the early days of GRITZ was a guitar player named Ace read more...
The GRITZ Top Ten for Friday, November 20, 2009
Every Friday GRITZ brings you our “Top Ten,” a playlist of songs past and present that you just can’t live without. Check ‘em out and please leave a comment. 1. “Ramblin”
Spotlight On Duane Allman On His Birthday Friday
Tomorrow is the 63rd birthday of Duane Allman. I can think of no better tribute than the following piece, written by GRITZ reader and Facebook friend Brian Ringo. He really summed up my own feelings on Skydog as well. Thanks Brian. Keep it Real. Keep it read more...
Videos of the Week: Capricorn Records Magic
Tuesday Reviews: Lingo, Kentucky Headhunters
Hi Gang. Well, it's Tuesday and that means new CD reviews. Today I have a "two-fer Tuesday" for you. Two great CDs you don't want to miss. One is from a long established Southern Rockin' country band, and the other from one of the hottest new young bands I have seen read more...
Interview of the Week: The Great Jerry Reed
Over the weekend I was listening to this great Dixie Tabernacle release again and really digging their cover of "Amos Moses." That prompted me to go
Molly Hatchet Write New Song, Play Concert For Slain 7-Year Old
Bobby Ingram of Molly Hatchet has written a song in memory of 7-year old
The GRITZ Top Ten for Friday, November 13, 2009
Every Friday GRITZ brings you our “Top Ten,” a playlist of songs past and present that you just can’t live without. Check ‘em out and please leave a comment. 1. Save The Planet Dixie Tabernacle From the
Boxmasters Cover Alvin and The Chipmunks
Well, Billy Bob Thornton and his fun loving band The Boxmasters have done read more...
A Joke Just for Our Musician Friends
Here's a zinger I received today from Supe Granda of The Ozark Mountain Daredevils. -Buffalo Before the gig, the bandleader calls the singer over to him and tells him, "Tonight, when we do "Night and Day," I want you to sing the second verse first, read more...
Video of the Day: Darius Rucker, CMA New Artist of the Year
Former Hootie and The Blowfish front man and fellow South Carolinian Darius Rucker has a brand new music video out today and we have it for you right here. The song is called "History in the Making." By the way, Darius was voted New Artist of the Year during last read more...
Dixie Tabernacle Debut is My Kind of Music
One of the absolute coolest projects to cross my desk in a while is the new CD from Dixie Tabernacle. Their debut is called "A Good Excuse," produced by Larry Goad in Nashville, and featuring Jimmy Hall, Doug Phelps and a large cast of other stars. I was read more...
Video of the Day: The Outlaws in Columbus Last Night
One of our readers sent me a link to this video of The Outlaws In Columbus, Ohio last night, Nov 8, 2009 doing "Freeborn Man." The boys are sounding good! Keep it Real. read more...
Candy Coburn and Benefit for Komen Coming December 11th
We just learned that Candy Coburn will be performing at a Christmas fundraiser for Nashville's branch of Komen for The Cure on December 11 at the Rutledge in Nashville. Doors read more...
Swampland Search Engine and Links
Dear Y'all, I have had many people asking me about our site search engine, and I want to assure you all that it is being worked on. We are aware of the issues with the searches and the bad links and our webmaster is working to resolve the issues as soon as possible. We are read more...
"The Box" Features Music From Duane Allman, Toy Caldwell
Today I went to see the new sci-fi thriller “The Box.” Now, the trailer presented it as a thriller, but without the sci-fi aspect. Actually, I was quite pleased to see the sci-fi storyline. I like those kinds of things. Frank Langella plays a creepy read more...
Rare Video: Ahmet Ertegun Talks About Capricorn Records
In this video, the late Atlantic Records executive Ahmet Ertegun recalls the late Phil Walden and Frank Fenter, and discusses
Video of the Day: Gov't Mule's Matt Abts Channels Jagger
Here's a fun band, kids. On Halloween night, Gov't Mule surprised everyone when drummer Matt Abts handed over his sticks to Jorgen and took the spotlight as Mick Jagger for a rousing version of "Shattered." How cool is that? I guess the Mule is read more...
Gritz Fan Page On Facebook to Offer Special Surprises
The Gritz Fan Page at Facebook is up and running. I hope you will all take the time to
Capricorn Studios Building Received No Bids
UPDATE: The auction for the old Capricorn Studios building in Macon was held today at Bibb County Courthouse. According to reports, there were no bids. The bank that holds the deed paid $360,000.00 for it, and are putting it up for sale. - Buffalo
The Top Ten Instrumentals of The Southern Rock Era
This list might be very different if one were to count the instrumental jams at the end of “Free Bird,” “Green Grass and High Tides” and “Highway Song.” But alas, we are listing only full instrumental tracks. Also note that their are
Capricorn Studios Building To Be Auctioned Off Tomorrow
The old Capricorn Studios building in Macon goes up on the auction block tomorrow. The building that once housed the recording studio used by the Allman Brothers, read more...
Video of the Day: Bettye Lavette and Shoals Allstars at Wexler Memorial
Bettye Lavette performed her own "Drown In My Own Tears" after her tearful tribute to Jerry Wexler at Jerry's memorial on October 30, 2009 in NYC. read more...
Musician and Actor Norton Buffalo Has Died
Marshall Tucker Band vocalist Doug Gray called me up moments ago to share the sad news that musician Norton read more...
Video of The Day: Dickey Betts Jams with The Charlie Daniels Band at Musicians Hall of Fame
Ah yes, these are the moments I live for! The Charlie Daniels Band doing "Southbound" with Dickey Betts read more...
Where The Wild Puppies Are
It's been quite a magical day here in the land of the Buffalo. First, I opened the front door this morning to find a downright adorable, and quite lost, puppy staring up at me on my front porch. He looked a lot like the old movie star dog Benji, only thinner. He appeared to read more...
Happy Birthday to Charlie Daniels
We at Swampland want to wish a mighty big Southern style Happy Birthday to the father of Southern Rock,
Video of the Day: Dickey Betts & Great Southern in Greenville, SC
Some video footage from Dickey Betts & Great Southern at The Handlebar in Greenville, SC on October 21, 2009. What a show! Keep it Real. Keep it Southern! Buffalo
Dickey Betts & Great Southern Rip It Up in Greenville
Dickey Betts and Great Southern brought it all back home to Greenville's Handlebar on Wednesday, October 21, 2009 with a show that had a read more...
Country Music Hall of Fame Benefit Tonight - Watch Online
Oklahoma's own Vince Gill has been one of Nashville's brightest lights over the last few decades. He's a top level picker, singer, and songwriter. He has kept traditional country music alive while also read more...
Warren Haynes Christmas Jam To Have It's Own Beer
I just heard that the Warren Haynes Christmas Jam will now have their own brand of beer. And I understand it kicks like a Mule! Read the story here. Keep it Real. Keep read more...
Video of the Day: The Zac Brown Band "Toes"
Buffalo's This Week in Movies, October 3, 2009; Zombies, Sci-fi and Fame
ZOMBIELAND After a virus wipes out the biggest chunk of life on the planet, the walking dead become the majority, feasting on human organs and spewing blood. Enter Columbus (Jesse
Video of the Day: Atlanta Rhythm Section
Recalling The Greatness of The Atlanta Rhythm Section
Today, we are pleased to bring you another Southern Rock List, The 25 Best Songs of The Atlanta Rhythm Section. Let us know if you agree or disagree. Keep it Real. read more...
Lynyrd Skynyrd On The Tube This Weekend
Lynyrd Skynyrd will appear on The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson on Friday, October 2nd performing their new single, “Simple Life.”
The Trailer Park: Movie Previews
Buffalo's Top Ten List For The Week of September 29th, 2009
1. Kris Kristofferson Closer to the Bone (CD) I wear this one like a warm winter coat. To me, it is what music is all about - great songs, no frills, read more...
Haskins Spins a Masterful Novel with "Serpents"
Facebook has done it again. It has acted as a conduit, connecting me with a great writer in Canada named Ziana de Bethune, who in turn introduced me to an author from Washington state by the name of A. Lawrence read more...
Video of the Day: Swampdawamp
Lost Southern Classic Stars Swayze, Thornton
Welcome to a new feature here at Gritz called “Lost Southern Classics,” in which we will examine an album, book or movie that may have flown slightly under the radar when it was released. With all the music and entertainment choices available these days, it’s read more...
Marshall Tucker's New Relase Includes Rare Winterland 1973 Show
One of our favorite bands has just released the ultimate collection of their finest early tracks. The Essential Marshall Tucker Band is a three-disc, budget priced, limited edition set that includes all of the best loved tunes from their early days, as well as a never read more...
Kris Kristofferon's Bare Bones
I have been a fan of Kris Kristofferson for as long as I can remember. I believe the first time I ever saw him was on The Johnny Cash Show on TV in the late sixties, when I was about 12 years old. His voice and style appealed to me even
Swampdawamp is The Real Deal
I can't remember who told me about Swampdawamp first. It was either Rick Broyles or Dwayne and Darlene (aka: Rebyll and Ms. Rebyll). All three of them were singing the praises of the North Carolina band back a
Happy Birthday to Dangerous Dan Toler
A very happy birthday wish goes out to former Allman Brother “Dangerous” Danny Toler who turns 61 today. Dan shares a birthday with
Discussion: Should a Band with One Original Member Still Go By Their Original Name?
My Facebook page received some interesting comments today regarding the Lynyrd Skynyrd performance on the Tonight Show yesterday. For our first discussion question, I'd like to ask - Should a band with only one or two original members still perform under the original band name? read more...
Buffalo's This Week in Movies, September 22, 2009; Adam, The Informant and Jennifer's Body
ADAM He’s not as slow as Karl Childers, more in line with Dustin Hoffman in Rainman. Hugh Dancy’s Adam Raki is an adult with Apergers Syndrome, a type of autism. When he befriends a new tenant in his apartment building, (Rose Byrne read more...
Video of the Day: Lynyrd Skynyrd On The Tonight Show Last Night
Skynyrd played their new single "Simple Life" on The Tonight Show last night. If you missed it, here's your chance to see it. This is the entire show. Just click on the final segment bar (around the 39 minute mark.) Sorry for all the commercials. It's beyond my read more...
A Mermaid in the Eye Doctor's Office?
There aren’t many things that really spook me anymore. I have gone into the light and been allowed to come back. After that, almost anything can just be shrugged off, ya know? So when I learned
Lynyrd Skynyrd On TV Tonight
Just a quick heads up for all the Free Birds. Lynyrd Skynyrd will appear on The Tonight Show with Conan O'Brien tonight, September 21. They will be performing their new read more...
Gritz Video of the Day: Delaney & Bonnie, Eric Clapton and Dave Mason
Buffalo's Top Ten List For The Week of September 19th, 2009
1. Swampdawamp Rock This Country (CD) The singer has one of the most unusual voices since Jim Dandy, and the band just plain rocks, read more...
Bruce Springsteen Rips It Up In Greenville
Bruce Springsteen, who will celebrate his 60th birthday next week, on September 23, blew the roof off of the Bi-Lo Center here in Greenville last night, September 16, 2009, in what was one of, if not the, finest shows I have ever seen.
Buffalo's Recording History (So Far)
I received a nice e-mail the other day from a lady in Alabama who said some very nice things about Gritz and my writing. She said she had been following my career since 1999, and that she was equally into my music. She asked if I could send her a complete discography and also tell read more...
Buffalo's This Week in Movies, September 15th, 2009: Sorority Row; 9; I Can Do Bad
SORORITY ROW The original title of the screenplay was “Seven Sisters,” which I like better, but I suppose it wasn’t creepy sounding enough. Rumer Willis, daughter of action star Bruce Willis and hottie cradle robber Demi Moore stars in this read more...
Cody McCarver Puts Some Southern Rock in His Country
I have been listening to Cody McCarver for years, both as a member of Confederate Railroad (a band he joined in 1999) and as a solo artist. He is a staple of the annual Angelus event read more...
Buffalo's Top Ten List For The Week of September13, 2009
1. The Beatles Boxed Sets (CDs) Talk about staying power? I have heard great things about the sound of these remastered albums. I can hardly wait to hear for
Charlie Daniels Band Reissue Features Buffalo Liner Notes
I was so excited when I went to the mail box today and received my copy of the new reissue of Midnight Wind, the 1975 album by The Charlie Daniels Band. Not only was I excited to read more...
9/11: Never Forget
I watched a special on National Geographic channel night before last that recounted the events of 9/11/01. All of the horror of that day came back as I sat on the sofa, my eyes welling up with tears. I am of a mind that we should never ever forget the families and lives lost that read more...
Boxmasters No 1 On Americana Chart, Billy Bob Talks Football
The Boxmasters this week hit the Number One position on the Americana read more...
Pat Conroy Has Always Been a Favorite Writer of Mine
It’s no secret how much I love reading. I guess that holds true for any writer. It sure does for me. Now, one of my favorite writers is fellow South Carolinian Pat read more...
One Day at The Eye Doctor
At ten minutes past nine this morning my eye doctor turned to his nurse and said, “Well, the world didn’t end.” It took me a minute to understand his statement. It was nine minutes past nine o’clock on 9-9-09. He had heard somewhere that the world was going read more...
Buffalo's This Week in Movies, September 8th, 2009; Flower Power, Infidels & Slashers
TAKING WOODSTOCK I really enjoyed this one, a film based on the true story of a teenager and his parents who owned a small motel near the site of the Woodstock Festival and their involvement
Austin's Charlie Faye Rises to the Top
There are just so many, many singer songwriters in the South. So many really good ones, especially in and around Nashville and Austin. Loads of talent. All of that being said, there are always a few that just rise to the top. Those rare artists who captivate you from the read more...
Complete Guide To Lynyrd Skynyrd Launched
We are very happy to present the latest in our Six Degrees of Swampland series, a complete guide to every article related to Lynyrd Skynyrd on the site. In addition, we have tossed in read more...
Lynyrd Skynyrd Feedback
Hi Guys - Thank you for all of he comments, e-mails and calls regarding my review of Lynyrd Skynyrd's latest album. Seems like our readership is divided about 50/50 on whether ol' Buffalo crossed some imaginary line read more...
New CD Reviews - Delbert McClinton and Lynyrd Skynyrd
Hi guys. I just posted new CD reviews of a couple of good new releases, and I hope you'll check them out. Delbert McClinton's Acquired Taste is his 30th studio record, and I think his read more...
A Brief History of The Boxmasters
It’s almost hard to believe that the first time I ever heard of The Boxmasters was two short years ago. August, 2007. I road tripped down to Myrtle Beach for a concert by
Artimus Pyle Acquitted
Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Artimus Pyle, the long time drummer for Lynyrd Skynyrd, was acquitted Friday of read more...
Buffalo's Top Ten List For The Week of August 30, 2009
1. Inglorious Basterds (Movie) It’s been a while since I wanted to see a movie a second time while it was still in the theaters, but
Dan Toler To Be Interviewed Tonight, Listen Live Online
This in from our Alabama "man on the street" Sonny Edwards If you love great music, you will want to tune in to "Down Home Cookin" with Larry "T", on Clear Channel Port Charlotte - Kix Country PM Drive/Americana PD - today, Friday, August read more...
Rare Photos of Skynyrd & Rossington Collins Band Added to Scrapbook
Hi there sports fans. I am very excited about the latest page of photos added to the Legends of Southern Rock Photo Scrapbook, There are some pics of the original
No Holds Barred: Blackjack Mulligan
Of all the wrestlers I have seen step into the squared circle, none was more exciting than the “man in black,” the Texas giant known as Blackjack Mulligan.
Devon Allman Talks About His Band, His Dad, and Uncle Duane
Devon Allman is bearing his soul at last. After years of self-described "running from his heritage," he is happy and healthy and proud to be the son of Southern Rock legend
Buffalo's Trailer Park
Welcome to a new feature called Buffalo's Trailer Park, where you can view movie trailers from upcoming movies that have caught my eye in theaters. Let me know how you like 'em. Taking Woodstock looks like a good one. It's based on the true story of the read more...
Buffalo's This Week in Movies, August 22nd, 2009; Inglorious Bastards
There’s really only one new movie this week worth mentioning, and that is the latest from Quentin Tarantino, a World War II film that takes place during the beginning of the German occupation of France. The film is called Inglorious Bastards, and as with all Tarantino read more...
Darius Rucker Was Country, Even Before He Was a Hootie Rock Star
In some ways it blows my ever lovin mind that Darius Rucker of Hootie & The Blowfish currently has the number one single on the country charts. In many other ways it doesn’t surprise me at all.
Delbert McClinton is Back and in Fine Form
Delbert McClinton has a new record out called Acquired Taste. The album was produced by Don Was and features the guitar work of the late Stephen Bruton. He also dedicated the album to the memory read more...
Swampland Makes The New York Times; Jim Dickinson Memories
Swampland was quoted in an article in The New York Times today. Their article on the recent death of Southern music icon
A Virtual Gravesite Tour of Skynyrd, The Allmans and Marshall Tucker
The past few years have held quite a bit of sadness for lovers of Southern Rock. There have been so many deaths in our extended family. But one fact remains. We will always remember our late brothers and sisters. Always. In keeping with that thought, we are pleased read more...
Dick Cooper Recalls Jerry Wexler, One Year After His Passing
It was one year ago this weekend that Southern Music lost one of its dearest friends, the great record man Jerry Wexler. At the time of Wex's death, we called upon one of read more...
Buffalo's This Week in Movies, August 15th, 2009; Time Travel, Aliens in Africa, a French Chef and Zooey
It’s been a banner week for good movies. Honestly, I can not remember a time when I posted four movie reviews that were all five star pictures. THE TIME TRAVELER’S WIFE stars Rachel McAdams and Eric Bana in a sci-fi love story based on the read more...
Gates Nichols of Confederate Railroad Loses Battle with Cancer
We are saddened to report that Gates Nichols of Confederate Railroad has lost his battle with pancreatic cancer. Gates passed away yesterday, August 14, 2009, at his home in Georgia. He was 65. Gates was just diagnosed with cancer a few weeks ago,
Guitar Legend Les Paul Dead at 94
One of the most famous guitar inventors and players of all time, Les Paul died today, August 13, 2009. He was 94. According to sources, Paul died at White Plains Hospital in New York
Toby Keith's Controversial New Video, See It Here
Toby Keith has never been one to hold back on his feelings. Now he has a new song and video that are already stirring up controversy. Imagine that. I'll leave the commenting up to you, our readers. Let us know what you think! Meanwhile... Keep it Real. Keep it read more...
Buffalo's Top Ten List For The Week of August 12, 2009
1. GOD & GUNS LYNYRD SKYNYRD (CD) The new Skynyrd is just great. They run the whole gamut from heavy rock to straight country.
Brooks & Dunn Going Out On Top
All good things, they say, must eventually come to an end, even if it’s a mega-star country music act like Brooks & Dunn. Louisiana man Kix Brooks and Texan Ronnie Dunn have announced that they are parting ways as a duo following a farewell read more...
GRITZ Loses Another Dear Friend: Barry Trotter Has Lost His Battle With Cancer
I just received word from Tommy Talton that our mutual friend Barry Trotter lost his hard fought battle with cancer this morning (Aug 10, 2009). Barry was the husband of Terry Reeves of Music Matters Entertainment who books Talton's band, Jimmy Hall, Tommy Crain & The read more...
Lost Classics: The Lightnin' West Band
Back in 1981, there was no iTunes, no MP3’s, not even a compact disc. This was a year before MTV, and several years before a band could record an album in their garage on their computer with Pro Tools, send it off to Disc Makers and get 1000 copies for less than a buck a read more...
Thoughts On The Death of Mike Seeger
The music world lost another good one last week with the death of folk pioneer Mike Seeger. Derek Halsey turns in a thoughtful memorial to one of the best. Check it out read more...
Buffalo's This Week in Movies, August 9th, 2009: Perfect Getaway, GI Joe, Funny People
A PERFECT GETAWAY was not what I imagined at all. Fact is, I expected another of those movies where a group of twenty-somethings are off on a lush tropical vacation and one by one they start disappearing, sliced and diced and left to sleep with the fishes. This read more...
More Legends Added to Photo Scrapbook
Howdy y'all. I hope everyone is having a great weekend. It's time once again to add another page to our ongoing Legends of Southern Rock Photo Scrapbook. No theme this time, read more...
The Marshall Tucker Band: The Lost Interviews; Chuck McCorkle
On June 29, 2007, founding Marshall Tucker Band member George McCorkle died. To those of us who read more...
Buffalo's Top Ten List For The Week of August 4, 2009
Here’s a new feature for GRITZ, Buffalo’s Top Ten list. Every week I will run down the ten albums, books, movies, TV shows -whatever- that have me excited. My hope is that by sharing these obsessions with you, maybe you'll find something new that you like that maybe you read more...
Sun Records Rockabilly Legend Billy Lee Riley Dies
Billy Lee Riley, who was a major part of Sun Records as a studio musician for other headliners died on Sunday, August 2, 2009 near his home in Jonesboro, Arkansas. He had been suffering from colon cancer, and it had moved to his bones, his wife, Joyce, told The Commercial Appeal read more...
Bobby Whitlock Rocked My Socks Off in '76
The other day I bought a few vintage issues of Crawdaddy magazine at Horizon Records for a buck each. Mr. Nostalgia they call me. Anyway, in a 1976 issue they grouped new releases by Bobby Whitlock,
Lee Bogan On Songwriting, Pickin' and Ghost Hunting
Today I am happy to present our interview with a great songwriter, singer and guitar player. A guy who currently writes and performs with country star Ronnie McDowell, and runs his own recording studio in Portland, Tennessee. A man I am happy to call friend. Lee Bogan.
More Vintage Southern Rock Photographs Posted To Scrapbook
Greetings from Down South! Today we present yet another page in our Legends of Southern Rock Photo Scrapbook. Our pal Donniue Smith turned in a few of the read more...
Big House Documentary Is A Great Tribute To The Allman Brothers Band
A few years back I paid a visit to the famous “Big House” on Vineville Avenue in Macon, Georgia. Kirk and Kirsten West made me feel at home in this beautiful place, and I enjoyed every single moment I spent visiting. Even then, the house was beginning to become a museum. read more...
Remembering Eddie Hinton Fourteen Years Later
It was fourteen years ago today, on July 28, 1995 that the world of Southern Music lost one of its finest talents, Eddie Hinton. Although I never met Hinton, I almost feel like I knew him. Through the writings and conversations with Johnny Wyker, Dick Cooper, read more...
Buffalo's Top Ten List For The Week of July 27, 2009
Here’s a new feature for GRITZ, Buffalo’s Top Ten list. Every week I will run down the ten albums, books, movies, TV shows -whatever- that have me excited. My hope is that by sharing these obsessions with you, maybe you'll find something new that you like that maybe you read more...
Singing With Vince Gill, Writing For Trace Adkins: Our Interview with Singer/Songwriter Amanda Martin
I first met Amanda Martin when we did a gig together at The High Lonesome Saloon
The GRITZ Mail Bag: July 25, 2009
TUCKER TALE Hi Michael, we don't know each other but I grew up next door to the Caldwells. Toy and Tommy were a few years older than I and they both looked after me like big brothers do. Toy always wanted to make sure that I had a good job, read more...
Video Spotlight: The Zac Brown Band
One of my very favorite bands these days is The Zac Brown Band based in Atlanta and tearing up the country charts. I am particularly proud that former
Hank Williams, Jr Kicking His Record Company to The Curb
According to an online interview/blog, Hank Williams, Jr. is fed up wih his record company and looking for a new recording home. He says this is his last album for CURB read more...
Buffalo's Top Ten List For The Week of July 22, 2009
Here’s a new feature for GRITZ, Buffalo’s Top Ten list. Every week I will run down the ten albums, books, movies, TV shows -whatever- that have me excited. My hope is that by sharing these obsessions with you, maybe you'll find something new that you like that read more...
Hank William's, Jr's Best Album in Years, New Scrapbook Pics Lynyrd Skynyrd 1971
After eleven years of listening to new CD releases in country and Southern Rock I admit I have become somewhat jaded. It takes something really special to stop me in my tracks. Well campers, that is exactly what happened with the new release from the living legend Hank Williams, Jr read more...
New Lynyrd Skynyrd Single Rocks Hard
The new single from Lynyrd Skynyrd’s soon to be released album is called “Still Unbroken,” and it is a balls out rocker. When I first cranked it on my stereo I was read more...
I Remember The Moon
It was forty years ago today that man first walked on the moon, and I remember it like it was yesterday. How sad and ironic that the man whom I watched report the whole thing, Walter Cronkite, would read more...
Buffalo's This Week in Movies, July 19th, 2009; Harry Potter, Beth Cooper, Bruno
HARRY POTTER AND THE HALF BLOOD PRINCE is a good one. A year has passed since the climactic events of 2007's Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, which culminated in the reemergence of the sinister Lord Voldemort. It is a dark time for both the muggle read more...
Sandlin Legacy Continues with Cinder-Graham
The latest brilliant star to shine over Alabama hails from Decatur, and at the tender young age of 18 she possesses the soul of a singer many years older. It’s a voice that falls somewhere between that of Susan Tedeschi and Jennifer Nettles. Her name is Ella Cauthen, and she read more...
Candy Coburn, The Mule and Cool Magazines
It was a banner day here as far as the US Mail goes. I came home from seeing the new Harry Potter movie (okay, you can all just stop laughing now read more...
Bragg Jam Returning to Macon
What started as an impromptu jam session of local musicians in honor of Macon, Georgia’s Brax and Tate Bragg was expanded into a city-wide music festival in 2003. Today, Bragg Jam has evolved into a full-scale arts festival and Macon’s premier music event, operating as a read more...
Candy Coburn Speaks With Swampland
I must apologoze to Candy Coburn and her team for taking so long to get her interview posted. Honestly, my health issues started the weekend I went to Nashville for her showcase, and have just now begun to heal. Thank God. I am so excited about the interview and read more...
New Albums From Commander Cody, Oak Ridge Boys
Happy Saturday folks. I have been listening to some pretty awesome CDs today, and I am very happy to present my humble reviews of the new Commander Cody album Dopers, Drunks and Everyday read more...
Gates Nichols of Confederate Railroad Diagnosed with Cancer
We are saddened to learn that one of our Angelus friends Gates Nichols, pedal steel player of Confederate Railroad, has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. A mutual friend Julia LaRue read more...
Classic Allman, Skynyrd and More Added To Legends Scrapbook
Greetings from South Carolina! Today I am happy to present yet another page of historic Southern Rock photographs in our ongoing Legends of Southern Rock Photo Scrapbook. Great old pictures of Gregg and Duane Allman, Toy and Tommy Caldwell, Ronnie Van Zant, Bonnie Bramlett read more...
Exploring The Swampland
Hi Guys. Just a note. Don't forget to check out the rest of our Swampland,com site for great stuff like James Calemine's new interview with
Molly Hatchet's John Galvin Loses Home To Fire
Our good friend and keyboard man for Molly Hatchet John Galvin and his wife lost there home to a house fire on June 30, 2009. The good news is they are okay as are their pets. John also reports that the read more...
New CD Reviews include Ronnie's Daughter Tammy Van Zant
Be sure to check the GRITZ CD reviews page for a couple of new postings. We have a review of the newly remastered classic Creendence Clearwater Revivial album The Concert as well as a review of read more...
Buffalo's This Week in Movies, July 6, 2009: Public Enemies, Transformers, Proposal
Johnny Depp and Christian Bale star in PUBLIC ENEMIES, loosely based on the real life story of notorious gangster John Dillinger. Depp is Public Enemy Number One Dillinger, while Christian Bale, fresh off of his role as John Conner in Terminator Salvation plays FBI read more...
Random Thoughts For The Holiday Weekend
I just received a call from my son Ben who is vacationing down at Kiwi Island. Seems he and his wife Austin were out for breakfast when he noticed a super tall gentleman in line close to them ordering up some vittles. Ben turned to Austin and said, “Man, that guy looks like read more...
Ten Great Songs You May Have Missed
I was driving down the Interstate today between Greenville and Spartanburg and listening to my iPod, just letting the “shuffle” setting take control. Suddenly Dickey Betts started up on a song I had not listened to in quite some time. A great song fromThe Brothers’ read more...
The Hottest Rides of The Southern Rock Era
The Southern Rock Era, 1969 - 1979 produced not only some of our greatest music, but also some of our greatest automobiles. Many of us were in high school during these years, and recall with great joy the hot rods in the school parking lot. Cars like the Malibu, the Roadrunner and read more...
Mark Karan's New Album is Stellar; Features The Late Delaney Bramlett
When I was at The Winters Brothers Jam last week, my friend Sonny Edwards called me down to his room on Saturday afternoon and said he had a new CD he wanted me to hear.
Legends of Southern Rock Guitar Contest Winners Announced
Mama always said “All good things must come to an end,” and with that we wrap up our Legends of Southern Rock Guitar Contest. Our Grand Prize Winner is Darlene Stevens of Goldsboro, North Carolina. Darlene wins our brand new Dean Playmate guitar with read more...
The New Adventures of Old Buffalo
PART ONE: SUNDAY MORNING COMIN’ DOWN “On the Sunday morning sidewalk, Wishing, Lord, that I was stoned. 'Cos there's something in a Sunday, Makes a body feel alone.” - Kris read more...
Everything You Always Wanted To Knowe About Marshall Tucker Band (But Were Afraid to Ask)
As promised, we have just posted our new Marshall Tucker Band: Six Degrees of Swampland feature. Besides some cool MTB videos, this page acts as an index page for every read more...
New Marshall Tucker Band Feature Coming This Weekend to Swampland
Hi Gang. TGIF. Well, I have been working all day on a new page for Swampland, and I am still not finished. I hope to launch it tomorrow. Six Degrees of Swampland: The Marshall Tucker Band will be a complete index to every article, review, video and read more...
Sad To Hear About Michael, But Farrah Fawcett Was My "Thriller"
It has been one hell of a day for the pop culture world. Just moments ago I learned that Michael Jackson has died following a cardiac arrest at age 50. No matter what the “King of Pop” did during his lifetime, his eccentricities and alleged crimes, which read more...
Non-Southern CD of The Week: Dublin City Ramblers
I feel kind of odd calling this “non-Southern” album. I mean, most great music comes from the south, but many Southerners originally came from Ireland, including my Great Grandfather Smith. So really, it don’t get much more Southern than
Wet Willie Rocked GABBA FEST Over The Weekend
The annual GABBA FEST took place this past weekend in Macon, and our buddy John Charles Griffin was there to capture a little of the magic on film for us to see. Looks like a mighty fine time was had by all. Check out John's
Buffalo Roaming: Winters Brothers Band 30th Annual Summer Jam Rocked
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again. I can hardly believe this was the final Winters Brothers Southern Summer Jam. But man oh man, was it ever a good one. I can truthfully say I have never seen a bigger crowd at the jam, and I have never heard
Buffalo Roaming: Friends Gather at Dennis Winters' House for Southern Dinner
Friday night was a lot of fun. Dennis and Lynda Winters hosted a pasta dinner for a whole bunch (I have no real body count, sorry) of friends and family. It's a Winters Brothers tradition. Don Swensen (formerly of Rebel Storm) is in from Washington with his wife read more...
Buffalo Roaming To Winters Brothers Summer Jam
Greetings! Scott, Steve and I have arrived here in Nashville, and are anticipating the pre-jam get together at the Winters Farm tonight. The jam is tomorrow. Should be a stellar final jam. Lots of friends have already checked in with us. More soon... Keep it Real. read more...
New Scrapbook Photos Feature Classic Molly Hatchet, Black Oak
Hi Guys. Well, I am heading out for the Winters Brothers Summer Jam early Friday, so I won't be able to post a blog until late Friday night or Saturday. Meanwhile, check out the latest page in our
The Winters Brothers Present Final Summer Jam Saturday
One of the annual events I look forward to each year is the Winters Brothers Band Southern Summer Jam. Me and my friend Scott Greene have been going every Father’s Day weekend for many a year now, and this read more...
Rene Gray Memorial Will Be a Private Family Only Service
Sarah Renee Gray, 48, of Inman, died Monday, June 15, 2009, at her home. Born March 21, 1961, in St. Louis, MO, she was the daughter of the late Gary Gene and Jean Ann Norris. She was the wife of Doug Gray of Marshall Tucker. Surviving in addition to her husband are two read more...
Jackson Crossing Releases One of The Year's Finest Albums
A few years ago I was blown away by a band out of my hometown of Spartanburg, SC called Sevenmoore. The band featured some of Sparkle City’s finest players, including two founding members of
A Death in The Marshall Tucker Band Family; Rene Gray Has Died
I am deeply saddened to report that Rene Gray, wife of Marshall Tucker Band lead singer Doug Gray, died this morning, June 15th, at their home in Inman, SC. Funeral read more...
Greenville, SC and The Legend of Esquerita
The city I live in, Greenville, South Carolina, has produced some major music movers and shakers over the years. Gram Parsons formed one of his first bands here.
Buffalo's This Week in Movies, June 13th, 2009; Pelham 123, Hangover, more
In THE TAKING OF PELHAM 123 John Travolta turns in one of the finest performances of his career as Ryder - not his real name of course - the brains behind a subway hijacking in New York. Subway traffic controller Denzel Washington is equally impressive, which, read more...
Muscle Shoals Swamper Barry Beckett Has Died
The Swampland flag is once again flying at half mast. A member of the Muscle Shoals “Swampers” has died. Producer and Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section keyboardist Barry Beckett, 66, died Wednesday, June 10, at his home in Hendersonville, Tenn., after years of read more...
More Vintage Southern Rock Photographs Posted, Skynyrd, Outlaws and More
Hi guys. Well, the response to our Legends of Southern Rock Photo Scrapbook continues to be overwhelming. Apparently a picture really is worth a thousand words! Today we add yet another page of rare pictures from Skynyrd, The Outlaws, MTB and more.
New Marshall Tucker Band Website is Smokin'
Calling all "Tuckerheads," the all new Marshall Tucker Band website is now online at marshalltucker.com, and read more...
Back Home in Spartanburg with Silver Travis
I first met The Silver Travis Band in 1980, and soon became their sound man and “road manager.” The band include Mike Satterfield on drums, Joey Parrish on bass, Randall Calvert, an especially hot guitarist reminiscent of Toy himself, Bill Johnson on guitar and read more...
Mongomery Gentry and Cracker Barrel Help Wounded Warriors
To me, one of the single greatest things a successfull artist can do is give back. Sure, they have worked hard to get to where they are now, but there is also quite a bit of good luck involved in achieving fame. One of the bands that never forgot where they came from is
Allman Brothers, Bonnie Bramlett and More Posted On New Legends Scrapbook Page
Hey gang! More new Southern Rock photos have been posted in the Legends Scrapbook. Allmans, Tucker, Bonnie Bramlett and much more. Check it out here! Keep read more...
Baseball, Southern Rock and Brad "The Animal" Lesley
Last week, The Greenville Drive minor league baseball club welcomed one of their own home, in a way. Of course, back in the early ‘90’s, our Greenville, SC ball team were The Greenville Braves. In 2005, the Braves moved to Rome, Georgia. John Smoltz of the read more...
Boxmasters New Video Premiers Tomorrow, But You Can See it Today
Tune In to CMT Pure’s Wide Open Country show this Monday, June 8th for the premier of The Boxmasters new video “Turn It Over." Wide Open Country read more...
The GRITZ Mail Bag: June 5, 2009
SOUTHERN ROCK IN SOUTH AFRICA Hi Buff, Man those photo's were awesome. (Southern Rock Scrapbook) Thanks for posting them on the website. read more...
Free Guitar to a Good Home
There's still time to win that Dean acoustic guitar signed by several Legends of Southern Rock! Enter today and win the guitar and a whole bunch more cool stuff! Enter read more...
New Scrapbook Photos of Winters Brothers, Charlie Daniels, Toy & Tommy Caldwell
Page Ten of our Legend of Southern Rock Photo Scrapbook is now posted, and it's a doozey. Good ol' photos of The Charlie Daniels Band, The Winters Brothers Band and The read more...
Gritz Loses Another Old Friend, Koko Taylor
A long time friend of Gritz and a Grammy Award-winning blues legend, Koko Taylor, died on June 3, 2009 in her hometown of Chicago, IL, as a result of complications following her May 19 surgery to correct a gastrointestinal bleed. She was 80. I first met Koko while writing read more...
Tommy Talton Surprises Charlotte Audience with Classic Cowboy Tune
On May 29, 2009 Tommy Talton and his band pulled out a classic Cowboy song that Tommy has not read more...
Joe Bennett, The Sparkletones, "Black Slacks," Elvis Presley and Joe's Grateful Dead Connection
Joe Bennett was a hometown hero in Spartanuburg, SC many years before The Marshall Tucker Band was read more...
Skynyrd On Stage 1974 Added To Legends Scrapbook
The Scrapbook just keeps getting bigger! Check out page nine, with some never before seen Lynyrd Skynyrd concert shots from 1974. Here's the read more...
Last Week's Hoopee Jam Featured Tommy Talton, Jimmy Hall, Randall Bramblett, more
The first ever Hoopee Jam brought out some of the finset players in the South, from singer songwriters to jam bands and good ol' fashioned Southern Rockers. I myself was scheduled to perform, but sadly had to cancel at the last minute due to health issues and docotor's orders. Our read more...
Buffalo's This Week in Movies, May 30th, 2009
UP is a winner. Animation has really come a long way since my childhood, when I was blown away by the 2-D thrills of The Sword in The Stone. Not only are our cartoons today generated on computers, they are also given new life via digital 3-D. Now, this was my first read more...
More Marshall Tucker Racing Memories
Not too long ago I wrote a dispatch about my old friend George McCorkle of
Back Into The Fenter Archives, More Rare Photos From Capricorn Records
Howdy Sports Fans. Well, from the tons of e-mail, text messages, Facebook posts, Myspace posts, Twitters, and old school phone messages, a lot of you are digging the Scrapbook photos as much as I am. I really have to thank Capricorn executive Frank Fenter's son Robin for read more...
The Summer of '75 Was a Good One
Sometimes the whole concept of time just confounds me. When I am waiting for something in the mail, it takes forever. Same with time leading up to something I love, like the upcoming Music For Meds Benefit and the
More Classic Capricorn Records Era Photos Posted
And the pics just keep on comin!' Hi y'all. Today, we add another page of photos to our Legends of Southern Rock Scrapbook. These are more pictures from the read more...
Guy Gilchrist's New Video Blends Country Music with Star Trek
Our friend Guy Gilchrist has done it again. The cartoonist, famous for his strips Nancy and The Muppets, has posted a music video online. You see, the talent of Gilchrist runs read more...
Some Toy Caldwell Watermelon Boogie For Your Holiday Weekend
A happy Holiday weekend to all. I hope everyone is having a "good 'un." I thought y'all might enjoy some good music from my old buddy Toy Caldwell and his post-
Great New Capricorn Days Photos Posted, Allmans, Tucker, EQT and more
Our Legends of Southern Rock Scrapbook has been given a real treat, courtesy of Robin Duner-Fenter, son of the late
Buffalo's This Week in Movies, May 22nd, 2009; Terminator, Angels & Demons
Here’s a look at our most recent cinema experiences. ‘ TERMINATOR: SALVATION is perhaps the best Terminator film to date. Yeah, I know, the original back in 1984 blah, blah, blah. It’s just that Salvation read more...
Jimmy Hall, Artimus Pyle, And Other Southern Rockers Band Together For Dixie Tabernacle
There has been an abundance of “all star” Southern Rock groups over the past few years. Some of them stay the course, while others fall by the wayside, often due to scheduling conflicts. Well, there’s one band that I sincerely hope keeps it together to record an read more...
Butch Trucks Reflects On 2009 Beacon Run
There's no doubt in my mind that The Allman Brothers Band's 2009
Win a Dean Guitar Signed by Legends of Southern Rock
Hi Guys. It's time for the much talked about, long awaited Legends of Southern Rock Contest, brought to you by Swampland and the Facebook Groups
Double Your Pleasure, Double Your Fun with Diane Durrett
Hi Y'all. I am happy today to post two reviews of one particularly talented artist, one Diane Durrett. Diane is both an acomplished singer and songwriter, as well as being a fine writer. Her latest album ,
Swampland's Boxmasters Contest Winners Announced
A wise man once said, “all good things must come to an end.” So it is with our huge “Meet The Boxmasters” contest. We heard from read more...
Talking Music and Other Mayhem With The Boxmasters and That Billy Bob Thornton Cat
I just had a ball, as always, interviewing my friends The Boxmasters the other night. They are all great guys, and besides being a friend, I am also their biggest fan - possibly both literally and figuratively! Thanks to the hardest working girl in read more...
Random Notes, Hoopee Jam, Boxmasters and Such
Greetings, Sports Fans. I was hoping to have our new Boxmasters interview ready for you today, but it turned out to be quite an opus. Still transcribing. But man oh man, is it a good one. I had the opportunity read more...
Everything I Know in Life I Learned From Star Trek
Space, the final frontier..... Those words echo deep down inside my psyche, reverberating over and over again, like the memory of an old lover or a particularly good concert. They wrap around my cerebral cortex, sharing space with the 1977 Marshall Tucker Band Homecoming read more...
Rare Photos from The Capricorn Days; Allman Brothers, Cowboy and More
Time for page five of the Legends of Southern Rock Photo Scrapbook.
Billy Bob Thornton On The Deaths of Three Friends in One Week
We asked Billy Bob Thornton to share his thoughts on three friends that all passed on to the other side this past week. On Stephen Bruton: "It’s been a rough week read more...
Stephen Bruton Dead at 60
Stephen Bruton, the super talented songwriter, musician and actor died on Saturday in Los Angeles at the age of 60. Among his many accomplishments, Bruton was a member of Kris Kristofferson's touring band for over twenty years. He had been fighting throat cancer for two years.
Billy Bob Thornton & Boxmasters New Song Honors Poodie Locke; Hear it Here First
Upon hearing the sad news of the death of their good friend Poodie read more...
Revisiting Lynyrd Skynyrd of 2003; Ean, Billy and Hughie
I was looking through the archives of our old GRITZ print magazine when I happened across a review of a show I saw in Clemson, SC where 38 Special opened for
Swampland and Friends Remembers Ean Evans
It has been a sad day, workiing on the memorial page for Ean Evans. He was so young and talented. I keep hearing Paul Thorn's song in my head, "We've got to give then their roses while they're here." So true. Check out our
Willie Nelson Road Manager Poodie Locke Dies
I just got word from Billy Bob Thornton's manager Lisa that Willie Nelson's road manager, Poodie Locke passed read more...
Lynyrd Skynyrd's Ean Evans Succumbs To Cancer
May 6th, 2009 We at Swampland are deeply saddened by the news of another death in the Lynyrd Skynyrd family. Bassist Ean Evans has died. As most of you know, he fought read more...
Buffalo's This Week in Movies,May 5th, 2009: Wolverine Returns
Time to catch up on movies. But first, GRITZ tips our hat to one funny actor, Dom DeLuise, who died last night (May 4, 2009) in a Los Angeles hospital at the age of 75. DeLuise made us laugh in many great movies alongside Burt Reynolds and Mel Brooks, as well as on TV’s read more...
Classic and New Photos Added to Scrapbook
I am feeling a bit under the weather, but I wanted to get this new page added to our Legends of Southern Rock Photo Scrapbook. Great pictures from throughout the history of Southern Rock.
Buffalo's Soap Box: Fiber and Cells
To be honest, there isn’t much in life that I just can’t deal with. I’ve always been pretty easy to get along with, I believe. Of course, to be completely honest (and we all need more honesty in our lives, don’t we?) I find that as I get older, there read more...
New Scrapbook Photos Feature Lynyrd Skynyrd
Happy Saturday, y'all. It's "Free Comic Book Day," so be sure to hit your local comic shop on the way to go see X-Men Origins: Wolverine. Just know that while the film is a good action movie, they have changed the whole history from what we all learned in read more...
The GRITZ Mail Bag: May 1, 2009
KUDOS FROM LOUISIANA I'd like to thank you for doing this. I just got the new newsletter and I wanted to tell you how much I enjoyed it. It was great to hear that so many of these guys are still around. Would love to see a few of these guys come here read more...
Back Home From Nashville and My Head is Still Rockin'
Back from Nashville, after the absolute longest, hardest ride of my life. Yep, it’s true. The six-hour drive took over eight hours, thanks to yet another traffic jam in Knoxville, a truck wreck, and road construction near Asheville. What can you do? At least I read more...
Rockin' Southern Style with Candy Coburn in Nashville
Buffalo’s big adventure continues... Well, at first my buddy Rick Broyles didn’t think he was going to make it out to The Exit/In for the big Candy Coburn showcase, so I drove on over, walked through the stark darkness, and found myself a table down front. read more...
How I Ended Up In Kentucky On My Way Down To Nashville
Well, I got up early today, and even though my back was still ailing me and it was raining outside, I chose to seize the day. I made a few calls, checked e-mail, packed up the Honda, and turned the ignition key. The sound coming from under my hood was not a good one. Long story read more...
Ean Evans Benefit Brings Out Heavyweight Frynds
Just a quick note for all of our Lynyrd Skynyrd fans. Someone kindly sent me the following link to an excellent story about the recent benefit show given for Lynyrd Skynyrd' bassist Ean Evans who was recently diagnosed with stage 3 cancer. Many friends came out to help a read more...
The Road to Nashville: A Side Trip To Portland To See Lee Bogan
After a few delays I hit the road this morning for my drive to Nashville. I love Nashville. In fact, I love middle Tennessee. The weather couldn’t have been better for the drive. That made it really palatable when I came upon the hour-and-ten-minute traffic read more...
Buffalo Roaming Once Again
Happy Sunday, guys. Well, I am getting packed and ready and to head out to Nashville for a few days. I have a full schedule of meetings and greetings and stuff, and will be reporting in nightly right here at GRITZ.NET. I hope you guys will check ot out. Also, stay read more...
Just another Saturday in the life of Michael Buffalo Smith
This morning the weather was phenomenal. Low 80’s, the birds were singing outside. My Jack Russells were in the back yard tooling about. The oldest one, Taz rarely barks any more, but the younger girl, Tessa, makes up for it. Non stop barking. I had to get read more...
As We Happily Present an Excerpt from One Great Southern Music Book, Dixie Lullaby
We are extremely happy to present an excerpt from one of my favorite books about Southern music, Dixie Lullaby, written by North Carolina autor Mark Kemp.Kemp, who also writes for Rolling Stone, tells the story of growing up in the racially divided South during the read more...
More Vintage Southern Rock Photographs Posted
The response to our Legends of Southern Rock Photo Scrapbook has been huge. Today we add a second page, with much more to come. I hope you like these pictures of Toy read more...
The GRITZ Mail Bag: April 22, 2009
LETTERS TO GRITZ Happy Earth Day everybody! Buff SOUTHERN ROCK LIVES IN THE NETHERLANDS Hallo Michael, I want to read more...
Boxmasters Release Third Album
Lots of great records were released today, but none more special than the third album from our pals The Boxmasters. Modbilly is an amazing two-disc set that is packed with sixties mod read more...
Boxmasters On The Tube Tuesday
Don't forget to enter the Swampland "Meet The Boxmasters" read more...
Our Conversation with Cowboy's Pete Kowalke Concludes
Rather than have our Pete Kowalke interview divided in two segments, I today added the second half right onto the first half's page. Check it out here. Pete is a great guy and a read more...
Pete Kowalke Talks to GRITZ About Cowboy, Duane Allman and Jamming with Berry Oakley
Pete Kowalke is one of the founding members of Cowboy,
Indie Record Store Day: Horizon Records Still Rocks
I just got back home from a visit to Horizon Records, my favorite home tome indie record store. They were having one of their big sales in honor of Independent Record Store day today, with a tent set up outside and great read more...
Back To Where it All Began: The Southern Rock Era
I have pretty much decided that the whole "Southern Rock" thing began in 1969. Sure, there were many rock and rollers and rockabillys that lead up to this new genre at the time. Not to mention all the country, blues and gospel players that served as influences on read more...
Buffalo's This Week in Movies, April 16th, 2009
Been a while since I ran down my latest movie reviews, so here we go. ADVENTURELAND is the film the forty-somethings have been waiting for. It does for their youth what Dazed and Confused did for those of us in high school during the early read more...
The Stars of Merlefest Talk About The Influence of The Allman Brothers Band
Merlefest is right around the corner, and today Derek Halsey presents an in depth look at last year's festival, what to expect this year, and presents interviews with James Nash of the Waybacks and New Grass Revival legend John Cowan on being a part of the Hillside Album Hour read more...
New Tommy Talton CD is Just Plain Good
The Tommy Talton Band has a new CD available through
New Southern Rock Archival Photo Scrapbook Added to Swampland
I hope everyone had a nice Easter. Today, we launch a project I have had on the drawing board for quite some time. Our Legends of Southern Rock Photo Scrapbook. Many of read more...
To Our Friends in Murfreesboro, Tennessee
In Murfreesboro, Tennessee, 30 miles southeast of Nashville, 42 homes were destroyed and 140 confirmed damaged as part of a bizarre weather situation spawning tornadoes across the Southeast last night. The weather is being blamed for three deaths and dozens
In Defense of Billy Bob Thornton: When Context Isn't Truly Context
by Jim Markel Jian Ghomeshi: I’m just trying to do a show and give people context for who you guys are. Billy Bob Thornton: There’s plenty of context without all that. For those that want to dig a little deeper than the read more...
Crosstown Allstars Get New Bassist, and He's a Southern Rock Star
I just got an exciting piece of news from Terry Reeves at Music Matters Entertainment. Tommy Crain & The Crosstown Allstars, who suffered the passing of their bass player and friend
Old Friends On The Edge
There’s a lot to be said for old friends. I’m taking about real friends. People you always felt comfortable around. People you never borrowed money from. I had lunch today with a couple of old true friends. Both of them were a part of one of my first ever read more...
Cowboy are Our Latest "Legends of Southern Rock"
Tommy Talton is really blazing a comeback trail and sounding great, and many of us who have been fans for years couldn't be happier. Today we pay tribute to his "old band" Cowboy, a group that just happens to be one of my all time favorites. Today they enter the GRITZ
New Live EP From Derek Trucks Band Will Only Be Available in Indie Record Stores
I was simply blown away by Derek Trucks during the recent Beacon run, and have be re-visiting his older read more...
Buffalo Roaming: Down to Athens for the Tommy Talton CD Release Party
We had been looking forward to this little road trip for quite some time. Tommy Talton and his band were having a CD release party at The Melting Point in Athens, Georgia, and it was sure to read more...
Allman Brothers Band: Video Tribute to Dickey Betts
For anyone who was sad that Dickey Betts didn't show up at the Allman Brothers Band's
Dave Cantonwine Talks About Eric Quincy Tate, Remembers Bandmates Donnie McCormick and Bear Sauls
Eric Quincy Tate was one of the greatest Southern Rock bands of all time, but they just never got the recognition they so richly deserved. The Texas based band was compared by many to fellow
Billy Bob Thornton's Musical Roots
I knew Billy Bob Thornton and I were going to hit it off. I had been a fan of his movies and his music for many a year, and I had read many accounts of his love for good ol’ read more...
Meet Billy Bob Thornton & The Boxmasters in Person! New Contest!
I am pleased as punch to present our latest contest, MEET THE BOXMASTERS. All you have to do is answer ten trivia questions (using our archive search engine) and you could win two tickets and meet and greet passes to see The Boxmasters, featuring read more...
Beacon Wrap Up: Guest Artists Remember The Allman Brothers Band 2009 Beacon Run
The 40th Anniversary Celebration of The Allman Brothers Band continues, but sadly, their phenomenal 20th year Beacon run has come to an end. (Of course, those who read more...
The Top 40 Moments of The Allman Brothers' Beacon Run
Well, I am still reeling from last night's closing show of the Allman Brothers 2009 Beacon Run. What an experience. For your Sunday, we have posted our picks of the
The Allman Brothers Band at The Beacon, March 28, 2009
The powers that be were playing some mighty fine music through the p.a. prior to the show, Edgar Winter’s White Trash, Robbie Robertson, Buffalo Springfield... It really set the mood for a great night. That ,and seeing
Artist Interview Videos Added to Our ABB Beacon Page
Just a heads up, we have added some artist interview videos to our 2009 Beacon Run Page, courtesy Moogis. Cool interviews read more...
The Allman Brothers Band at The Beacon, March 27, 2009
The Duane slide show never gets old, and you never know what song The Allman Brothers will play while it is being projected. Tonight it all began with a rousing read more...
The Allman Brothers Band: A Different Point of View from Swampland's James Calemine
James Calemine, a long time contributor to GRITZ, as well as many other publications, including Hittin' The Note, is the man behind the
Duane Trucks Drums On Hot New Highly Kind Release
One of the absolute coolest CDs I have had the pleasure of hearing lately is the debut album from Highly Kind, a band that features Duane Trucks, brother of Derek, nephew of
The Allman Brothers Band at The Beacon, March 26, 2009
"We'll reach the end well all be singin And well all be friends Back where it all begins..." Tonight was forty years to the day that the band played their first gig in Jacksonville, Florida, so we all knew it would be something read more...
The Allman Brothers Band at The Beacon, March 24, 2009
The curtain came up, the brother Duane slide show started up, and the Allmans kicked off tonight’s show with “Hot ‘Lanta,” one of my old favorites, read more...
Derek Trucks Band Lead Singer Mike Mattison Talks with GRITZ
I have got to tell y'all, I have really been enjoying thre latest Derek Trucks Band CD, Already Free. It is just great. I bought it upon the recommendation of
The Allman Brothers Band at The Beacon, March 23, 2009
The rumors were flying once again. Some thought that Dickey Betts would join the band tonight, while others were speculating on everyone from
John Wyker's Memories of Duane Allman at FAME
Over the weekend I ran across some discs that house articles from the eleven issues of GRITZ the print magazine. In the coming weeks, we will be adding articles and interviews to the archives that were previously unavailable. Today, I have added a "Cat Taie" read more...
The Allman Brothers Band at The Beacon, March 21, 2009
Saturday night in New York City at 74th and Broadway. Everyone seemed to still be trying to get over the two back to back Eric Clapton jams. No small wonder. Both were just off the charts good. But then came the question, who’s next?
Tom Wynn Talks About Cowboy, Capricorn and The Allman Brothers Band
There really seems to be a surge of interest these days in the music that I have always loved the most, that is, the music of the "Capricorn Records" era. One of my all-time favorite bands was Cowboy, and when they gathered back together at Johnny Sandlin's read more...
The Allman Brothers Band at The Beacon, March 20, 2009
Friday night’s Beacon extravaganza began with the Duane slide show backed by “Little Martha,” this time played by Oteil Burbridge solo, on bass. It was pretty awesome. Beautiful read more...
The Allman Brothers Band at The Beacon, March 19, 2009
The rumors were raging again. Lots of talk about Eric Clapton. Lots of anticipation. No doubt. The curtain came up, the Duane Allman slide show paid tribute to Skydog while Derek Trucks and
Spooner Oldham Talks About Duane Allman, Delaney and Bonnie, The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Much More
Wow. Did The Brothers ever blow the roof off The Beacon last night? And what about Boyer and Talton? Wow. I am very happy to present an interview with one amazing Muscle Shoals talent, Spooner Oldham. Spooner in being inducted ito the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame this read more...
The Allman Brothers Band at The Beacon, March 17, 2009
Excitement was in the air tonight, especially for me. I had known for some time that Tommy Talton and
The Allman Brothers Band at The Beacon, March 16, 2009
I was speaking to a friend (I can’t say who right now, it’s a surprise) late this afternoon and he told me he had run into Bonnie Bramlett and Bekka Bramlett on the street read more...
The Allman Brothers Beacon Run: Ready for Round Two
Well, The Allman Brothers Band moved read more...
Buffalo's This Week in Movies, March 16th, 2009
I’ve been so wrapped up in Allmania this past week that I nearly forgot to toss out my humble opinion on the current movies I have been enjoying. This week saw the opening of Disney’s Race to Witch Mountain, staring former pro-wrestler Dwayne read more...
The Allman Brothers Band at The Beacon, March 14, 2009
I was still trying to get past last night’s show with Southside Johnny’s horn section and Boz Scaggs as I took my seat for the Saturday spectacle.
The Allman Brothers Band at The Beacon, March 13, 2009
There was nothing but “good luck” flying around New York’s famed Beacon Theatre tonight, even if it was Friday the 13th. Jason was no where to be found. The usual
Quarter Notes: Derek Trucks welcomes Bobby Whitlock; Brothers of The Southland Arrive; Tommy Talton Band Rocks
The Derek Trucks Band welcomed a very special read more...
The Allman Brothers Band at The Beacon, March 12, 2009
I heard from a few people that they thought Monday’s show was amazing but that Tuesday’s was weak. I disagree. I thought both were great. That being said, I honestly feel that tonight’s show was the best so far in the run, and read more...
All New Butch Trucks Interview Posted, Six Degrees of Swampland features Allman Brothers Band
Greetings. Well, the Beacon run continues tonight, and we'll be watching and listening. If the first two shows are any indication, we are in for even more southern fried goodness tonight. Allman Brothers month continues at GRITZ with our brand new interview with Allman read more...
The Allman Brothers Band at The Beacon, March 10, 2009
I had just gotten off the cell with Tommy Talton. We were talking about the Hittin’ The Note party in New York, where his band will open for Jaimoe and read more...
Southern Rock Reigned at Kerry Creasy Benefit
Scott and I set sail for Rome, Georgia Saturday morning under clear skies with the pre-release of Tommy Crain and The Crosstown Allstars upcoming album wafting through the vehicle. It was just the right combination of music, friends and spring like weather read more...
The Allman Brothers Band at The Beacon, March 9, 2009
It was truly one hot Spring night at the newly refurbished Beacon Theatre in New York City last night as The Allman Brothers Band kicked off their 40th Anniversary spectacle, read more...
Allman Month Continues, Buffalo Roaming Saturday
I'm packing up for another trip down to Rome, Georgia tomorrow morning. Tomorrow night is our Benefit for the Kerry Creasy Family, and we are all looking forward to playing read more...
Another Friend Has Died: Chuck McCorkle, Brother of The Late George McCorkle
A dear old friend of GRITZ has died. Chuck McCorkle, brother of Marshall Tucker Band founding member
Kerry Creasy Family Benefit is This Saturday
As most of you know, Kerry Creasy (bass player for Tommy Crain & the Crosstown Allstars) passed away suddenly on December 5th, 2008 while in attendance at the annual
Beacon Run WIll Be a Tribute to Duane Allman, Guest Rumors Abound
As the excitement of The Allman Brothers Band’s return to The Beacon Theatre continues to build, the rumors are raging across the internet regarding the many special read more...
Ultra Cool Allman Brothers Videos for Your Tuesday
We Celebrate The Allman Brothers Band During The Month of March
I am extremely happy to announce that March is Allman Brothers Band month here at GRITZ. In celebration of The Brothers' 40th Anniversary and their upcoming Beacon run,
Latest Rolling Stone Brings Back The Good Stuff with Derek Trucks Piece
Well, I am sitting here drinking some tea and looking out the office window at the snow drifting down and covering everything in pure white. Snow is such a calming thing. So quiet.
Billy Bob Thornton and The Boxmasters Set To Release Third Album in April
The Boxmasters, the band led by our friend and world class actor Billy Bob Thornton, have announced April 21st as the release date for their third album, Modbilly. read more...
Where Are They Now? The Gulley Brothers and Jackson Highway
During the mid-seventies, a band formed in Muscle Shoals, Alabama that had a really great Southern Rock sound, but like so many other groups of the era, they never received the national attention they so richly deserved. The band was called Jackson Highway. read more...
Join Our Southern Rock Group On Facebook
I am very happy to announce our new "Legends of Southern Rock" group on Facebook. If you are a Facebook member, just follow the Legends link above and join us. We have one discussion already read more...
Swampland Remembers and Salutes Nashville Songwriter Dennis Linde
On February 9 a very special event was held in Nashville to honor the late songwriter and all around creative artist, Dennis Linde, who died on December 22, 2006.
From the GRITZ Vaults: It's Good to Be The King; Ed King of Lynyrd Skynyrd
Today I was listening to some random CDs, and Lynyrd Skynyrd’s Second Helping came on. I had not heard it in a while, and it was sounding so good, it brought back a lot of read more...
Memories of Hunter S. Thompson Four Years After His Death
Last Friday, February 20th was the fourth year anniversary of the death of Dr. Hunter S. Thompson. The Official Flying Dog Brewery posted some great memories of read more...
German Southern Rocker Georg Bayer Has Died
The Southern Rock world lost a true friend this past Saturday, February 21, 2009, when Georg Bayer died of a heart attack. Georg was the ophenominal lead singer of one of Germany's finest Southern Rock bands, Lizard. He was 54.
Wrestling with the Choices for Oscar Winners
Well, it’s 1:30 a.m., and I have been doing a little writing since the Oscars finally wrapped a little while ago. Man, they ran late. No surprise there. I was, however, surprised by a few of the winners. I am a little disappointed that my film The read more...
Allman Brothers, Mule, Betts: Great Southern Rock On Demand on The Tube
I was sitting around chillin’ after a long day of writing, paperwork and a nice long walk in the park. Remote in hand, I was channel surfing like a mad man, and getting kinda frustrated that there are a million and one channels and nothing worth watching. Then I remembered the read more...
Mickey Rourke and The Nature Boy: Pro Wrestling and The Oscars
I am more excited than usual about this year’s Oscars, for several reasons, but the primary reason is the one movie that just blew me out of the water lately. That movie was
Great Elvin Bishop Capricorn Records Reissues Hit The Swampland
Man, oh man, am I ever enjoying the CD I got in the mail today, all the way from Australia. It's a compilation that includes both of the albums Elvin Bishop recorded at Capricorn Studios in read more...
Buffalo's This Week in Movies, February 18th, 2008
Well, twas curiosity that drew me to the theater to view the remake of Friday The 13th. After a million sequels there was no place else to go but to start over, I guess. Let me sum it up for you. The original was better. Dumb kids camping, doing drugs, smokin’ a lot read more...
Just Thinkin' 'Bout Carolina College Football On a Tuesday Evening
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, us Southern boys love our music, but we also love our sports. Whether it be NASCAR, pro rasslin’, baseball, round ball, or our number one, you guessed it, football. Now, as for the Buffalo, he has been read more...
Anytime, Anyplace, Anywhere: Derek Hess Talks About Rossington Collins, Drumming and Ronnie Van Zant
Derek Hess is one of the true “unsung heroes” of Southern Rock. He was smack-dab in the middle of the whole Jacksonville scene during the glory days of the seventies, and after the Lynyrd Skynyrd airplane crash, when Gary Rossington and Allen Collins decided to form a read more...
The Many Talents of Guy Gilchrist
One of the nicest people I have ever been blessed to meet and get to know is cartoonist Guy Gilchrist. He's always at the
Talking Southern Music with Music Critic and Author Mark Kemp
When I received my "goodie bag" at the 2004 Americana Music Conference I was ecstatic to find a brand new, hard cover book in amongst all the magazines, stickers and promo items. That read more...
Going Gonzo On a Friday Night with Dr. Hunter S. Thompson
It is no secret that, like my Swampland brother in arms James Calemine, I am a long time reader and die hard fan of the late
Clay Cook of The Zac Brown Band, Formerly of Marshall Tucker, Releases Stellar Solo Disc
Hi guys and happy Thurday, Honest Abe Lincoln's birthday! Every once in a while I get a CD here in the office that just blows me away. If you're a read more...
Notes from The Dashboard of My Pickup Truck
Greetings, fellow babies. Well, it's Wednesday, so that means one thing - Lost comes on tonight! Yeah, I am hooked. Ever since a friend loaned me the DVDs of seasons 1-3, then I watched Season 4, and now I am actually caught up. Strange, and I like it. Hey, read more...
The Allman Brothers On Moogis
As the March 9th beginning of the Allman Brothers Band's 40th Anniversary Beacon run approaches, excitement is building. Rumors are flying through cyberspace about special read more...
Derek Trucks Talks About The Beacon and Cowboy
Breaking Video News: Tommy Talton turned me onto this current video interview with Derek Trucks. Makes me wonder about the Beacon. Boyer and Talton? Bonnie Bramlett? C'mon somebody throw the Buffalo a bone!
Best Grammys in Years
When I sat down in front of the boob tube last night to watch the 51st Annual Grammy Awards, I had honestly braced myself for a major letdown. After all, the past few years have featured little excitement and very little for old rock and rollers like me to get off on.
Southern Rock Album Covers We Love
Happy Sunday. I hope everyone is having a great weekend. Last week I received a really nice e-mail from a reader who said that he really enjoyed our Southern Rock Lists feature, read more...
Swampland Story Featured On Billy Bob Thornton Website
A big ol' Southern "thank you" to Amelie, the web master for our friend Billy Bob Thornton. Amelie has posted a very nice story about myself and GRITZ and the whole read more...
Frynds: My Favorite Lynyrd Skynyrd and Friends Videos
Welcome to my Lynyrd Skynyrd video blog. Today, I just wanted to share a few of my favorite YouTube videos of the band jamming with some of their rowdy read more...
From The GRITZ Vaults: Remembering The Early Years of Lynyrd Skynyrd
I'm not sure that everyone realizes just how deep the reading can go here at Swampland. It amazes me sometimes, and I did most of the writing! With all of the talk about the passing of brother
A Visit to The Charlie Daniels Museum
Located on 2nd Avenue in downtown Nashville, The Charlie Daniels Museum is a site to behold. If you are a fan of
The Future of Lynyrd Skynyrd
I still find it hard to believe that Billy Powell is gone. What a great musician, and from all the
Buffalo's This Week in Movies, February 2nd
WIth the Oscars right around the corner, I am happy to say that the ol’ Buffalo himself has seen three of the true front runners during the past couple of weeks, and I wanted to run them down for you so you can get the real skinny on what’s good and what ain’t.
Steelers Win, The Boss Shines in Best Superbowl Game Ever
Well, I have to change my statement made in my dispatch earlier today. Superbowl II of 1968 is now my second favorite Superbowl game. Tonight's game has moved into my top spot, not only as read more...
Super Bowl Sunday Reflections
There’s cold beer in the fridge and Bruce Springsteen’s new album is wafting through the air. Only four more hours until kickoff, and the excitement is mounting. Not only am I stoked to see The E-Street Band at halftime and the always fun commercials, but I hope to
Marshall Tucker Band Adds New Guitarist, Releases New Album
Big news for fans of The Marshall Tucker Band. Doug Gray's multi-talented nephew, Clay Cook, is leaving the band to tour with Zac Brown. He will appear Tuesday evening on the read more...
More Lynyrd Skynyrd News: Alabama License Plates, Tammy Van Zant Sings
Go Alabama! And I ain't talking about the Tide (this time!) The state now features new auto plates with "Sweet Home Alabama" on them. What a tribute to Lynyrd read more...
The Swampland Tribute to Billy Powell of Lynyrd Skynyrd
The response to my simple request was overwhelming. I asked a few "brothers and sisters" of the road to share their thoughts on the passing read more...
Lynyrd Skynyrd Pianist Billy Powell Has Died
Lynyrd Skynyrd’s keyboard player and our friend Billy Powell has died. According to insider sources, he started experiencing chest pains and difficulty breathing and called 911 at 12:55 a.m. this morning. When EMS arrived at his
From The GRITZ Vaults: Paul Hornsby On Capricorn Records
Among the truly legendary Southern Rock producers you will find the name Paul Hornsby. Paul started out as a musician, as a member of The Hour Glass, a pre-
Get Your GRITZ On Your Google Homepage
Greetings, fellow babies. I am pleased as punch to announce that you can now receive my Dispatches right on your Google or Yahoo homepage. How cool is that? All you have to do is click on the
SIlver Travis Releases a Southern Masterpiece
Sure, the guys in The Silver Travis Band have been my friends for over 25 years, but even if I had never met them, I would still be just as excited about their new album release. Take The High Road is a masterpiece in my opinion. It's all Southern, all good, with a pickup read more...
John Rich and Gone Country, a Great Way to Chill On a Saturday Night
It turned out to be a CMT kind of night at the Buffalo home last night. First, i watched the premier of season three of Gone Country, followed by CMT Cribs, which took us on a visit to the home of our friend Charlie Daniels. Yes, My Big Redneck Wedding was read more...
From The GRITZ Vaults: Happy Birthday to Richard Young, Kentucky Headhunters
Our buddy Richard Young, guitarist for The Kentucky Headhunters will have a birthday this Tuesday, January 27th, Richard is 54 years young. (Pun intended.) We read more...
Eric Quincy Tate, "Drinking Man's Friend," a Look Back to '72
It’s really sad that Eric Quincy Tate never really received the acclaim they so richly deserved. From their stellar albums to their smoking concerts and gigs in Piedmont Park with
Marshall Tucker, Bonnie Bramlett and Grinderswitch in England, 1976: Hear it Now!
Back in 1976 the South took a tour of England when The Marshall Tucker Band packed up the plantation and set sail for Great Britain with
From The GRITZ Vaults: The Legendary Godfather of Southern Rock, Charlie Daniels
The first time I ever saw Charlie Daniels in person was on one summer afternoon in 1977 at The Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium. The Marshall Tucker Band’s Homecoming Concert.
R.E.M., Molly Hatchet, Atlanta, Athens and Buffalo: Eighties Memories
Someone mentioned R.E.M. during a conversation with me the other day, and it got my ol’ mind to reeling again. See, I am a die hard Southern Rocker, but I love many other types of music as well. R.E.M. is certainly not a Southern Rock band, yet they are totally
Lynyrd Skynyrd's Best Songs of All Time
Ain't no other band like Lynyrd Skynyrd. That's just a fact. Hard core fact, brothers and sisters. This group has put out some or rock and roll's most enduring music, so when I sat down to make my list of the
Report from The Simple Man Cruise
By all accounts it seems this year's Simple Man Cruise was the best one yet, with tons of Southern Rock performances from Lynyrd Skynyrd, The Marshall Tucker Band, Molly Hatchet, 38 Special, and many more. Not to mention a lot of old school jams!
Mainstream South Contest Winners Announced
Well folks, the response to our Mainstream South CD giveaway was amazing. Thanks to all who entered. Unfortunately, we only have ten of these autographed editions to give away. I spent the better part of two hours choosing the winners, and have posted them below. As read more...
For The Record: Delaney Bramlett's Songwriting Partners
With the recent death of Delaney Bramlett the internet was read more...
From The GRITZ Vaults: Life as a Roadie with Red Dog Campbell and Moon Mullins
I am happy to say that GRITZ is now into our eleventh year online, and over the course of the years we have managed to accumulate a vast data base of in depth interviews from all of the biggest names in Southern Rock and more. WIth our new “From The read more...
Buffalo's This Week in Movies, January 12th
Wow, were we bombarded with films over the Christmas Holidays. Lots of good ones, some not so good. Now, in the post-Holiday cool down, there are still some movies that I am really looking forward to. One that I can hardly wait to see is
Donnie McCormick of Eric Quincy Tate Succumbs to Cancer
The Southern Rock world has lost yet another pioneer. Eric Quincy Tate founding member Donnie McCormick has lost his ongoing battle with read more...
Former Lynyrd Skynyrd Extended Family Members Release Rocking Instrumental Album
Some of our favorite old school Southern Rockers have recorded an album that may come as a bit of a surprise. Rossington Collins Band members Barry Lee Harwood and Derek Hess along read more...
Buffalo and The Blustery Day
"Happy "Winds-day", Piglet." - Pooh, Winnie The Pooh & The Blustery Day We had our very own "Winds-day" here at the GRITZ office yesterday. At times it felt like we were in the middle of a "tor-nady," read more...
St. Petersburg Mayor Rick Baker Jams with The Marshall Tucker Band
Wednesday, January 7, 2008 St. Petersburg, Florida Mayor Rick Baker will take the stage tonight to sit in with The Marshall Tucker
Rare Tommy Talton Acoustic Trio Videos
The Tommy Talton Band is one of the best groups playing today. The former partner of Scott read more...
There's No Other Like ZZ Top
Sometimes I find myself taking ZZ Top for granted, and that just ain't right. I need to say more good things about that "Little Ol' Band from Texas" that has been a part of my musical landscape since the read more...
Ean Evans of Lynyrd Skynyrd Diagnosed with Cancer
We are sad to report the news that Lynyrd Skynyrd bassist Ean Evans has been diagnosed with cancer.. We received word today from both band members, friends and fans. While we do not read more...
Delaney's Funeral is Tomorrow
Our friend Delaney Bramlett will be buried tomorrow morning. The funeral will be held at Liberty Hall at Forest Lawn in Los Angeles, California (90068) on Friday morning, January 2, 2009 at 11 AM. GRITZ reporter Sonny Edwards will be attending and will post a guest read more...
Buffalo's This Week in Movies
Welcome to the new. streamlined version of GRITZ movie reviews. I wanted to make them more personal, more conversational. Rather than individual reviews, I will be talking about all of the films I have seen for the week, comparing and contrasting. Let me know what you think.
All You Need is Love: Happy New Year from GRITZ
As we move into the new year, I am filled with HOPE and OPTIMISM that I have not felt in several years. Yes, I voted for Obama. Yes, I feel he is our best hope for positive change. And yes, I pray that I am right. With that hope tucked snugly into my heart, and a big read more...
Delaney Bramlett Dead at 69
Legendary singer/songwriter/guitarist/producer Delaney Bramlett died early Saturday morning, December 27, 2008 at 4:55 a.m. at the age of 69. Delaney passed away in a Los Angeles read more...
Delaney Bramlett: The Death of a Southern Legend
It with a heavy heart that I post the sad news of the passing of a Southern Music Legend. The great Delaney Bramlett has lost his fight against the forces of read more...
Friends of Swampland Severely Burned in House Fire
Some friends of Swampland are in need of your thoughts and prayers this Christmas day. Thirteen-year-old Connor McKemey of Rock Hill, SC, and his mother read more...
Best Movies of 2008
It was certainly a comic book nerd’s dream year. I know, because I am one. The comic book based movies not only dominated the ratings wars, they also matured right before our eyes. Don’t get me wrong, I loved the original Michael Keaton and Jack Nicholson read more...
Swampland's Legends of Southern Rock
Hey gang, check out our Swampland Legends of Southern Rock Series. We are always adding new bands and updating the existing pages, which chronicle the histories of these awesome bands and link to various articles and interviews within GRITZ. Phone the neighbors, wake the read more...
Cameron Crowe, The Allman Brothers and Me: A Defining Moment from 1973
It was during this week 35 years ago that Cameron Crowe had his first cover story published in Rolling Stone magazine. It was a cover story read more...
The Best Releases of 2008
We are happy to present what we feel are the very best album releases of the past year. Please let us know what you think. Buffalo
GRITZ Movie Reviews: Holiday Movie Reviews, Part One
THE DAY THE EARTH STOOD STILL Well, I was really looking forward to this one. A remake of the 1950’s read more...
The Angelus Superlatives of 2008
THE ANGELUS SUPERLATIVES 2008 It has become a tradition. Each year, I pick the people I feel were mowt outstanding in certain areas during that wonderful event known as The Angelus Charlie Daniels Celebrity Golf & Country Concert event, kind read more...
Buffalo Roaming: The Angelus Rocked
My buddy Scott Greene and I had been talking about our annual pilgrimage to The Angelus for months. he was about as excited about it as I was. after all, it is too much fun every single year. This would be Scott’s fourth trip and my eighth. We headed out in read more...
Angelus 2008 Photos: Day One
DAY ONE... Photos by Buffalo, Rob Donbar, Scott Greene, Tom Bell, Mike Proctor
Angelus 2008 Photos: Day Two
DAY TWO... Photos by Buffalo, Rob Donbar, Scott Greene, Tom Bell, Mike Proctor .
Angelus 2008 Photos: Day Three, Part One
Photos by Buffalo, Rob Donbar, Scott Greene, Tom Bell, Mike Proctor . BACKSTAGE FUN AT THE ANGELUS CONCERT
Angelus 2008 Photos: Day Three, Part Two
Photos by Buffalo, Rob Donbar, Scott Greene, Tom Bell, Mike Proctor .
Buffalo Roaming: Back from The Angelus, Worn Slap Out
Well friends, I am back home. The Angelus this year was filled with emotion, saddness, happiness, spirit, soul, love and tons of great music. I am just spent. I have never been more worn out, But I wouldn't have missed it for the world. I hope to have the whole detailed read more...
Angelus Event Begins On a Somber Note; Another Friend Gone
I am deeply saddened to announce that another dear nusician friend has passed away. Our good friend Kerry Creasy, bassist for Tommy Crain and the Crosstown Allstars, passed away during the night from a heart attack. Kerry's final show was nothing short of spiritual. He, read more...
Delaney Bramlett To Undergo Intense Surgery Thursday
Hi Guys. Delaney Bramlett's wife Susan just posted this on his website. Please keep Delaney in your thoughts and prayers. From: Delaney Bramlett Date: Dec 3, 2008 12:20 AM
On The Road to Angelus; Warren Haynes Xmas Jam Anniversary Feature
The Buffalo is ready to roam once again. My friend Scott and I head out tommorow in the direction of Tampa Bay. The annual Angelus benefit begins on Thursday, and it should be a stone gas. I'll be covering every minute of it for SWAMPLAND. Please check back each day for breaking read more...
In Memory of Bear Sauls, Eric Quincy Tate
Our old friend Wayne "Bear" Sauls, guitarist for Eric Quincy Tate, passed away at 12:04 am, November 26, 2008 due to existing health complications. Bear was 60.
Southern Rockers Come Together To Help Others in North Carolina
Well, it's that time of year again. The time when we stop to give thanks for our lives, our health and family and friends. It's a perfect time to reflect on the recent benefit show put together by some big hearted people in North Carolina, including GRITZ friends Darlene "Ms. read more...
Buffalo Roaming: Jimmy Hall, Jonell Mosser and T. Graham Brown in Georgia
It was a beautiful day for a drive. I aimed the Honda in the general direction of Atlanta. It seems like I have to go through Atlanta to get to any destination. If I were going to New York, I’d probably still have to go through Atlanta. But why would I want to go to New York read more...
Buffalo Roaming Again; Check Out Jimmy Herring
Greetings, sports fans. Looks like the ol' Buffalo is roaming again. Heading down to Georgia for what promises to be a stellar evening of r&b and Southern Rock with Jimmy Hall and T. Graham Brown. Meanwhile, might I suggest you check out an interview by my pal James read more...
Time to Cowboy Up
Yeeee hah! Legacy Recordings celebrates the 50th anniversary of the National Finals Rodeo with an absolutely killer boxed set of cowboy songs, old and new. This one really brought back memories of my old Roy Rogers guitar, playing in the back yard with my little black read more...
GRITZ Movie Reviews: 007; Role Models; Changeling; House
QUANTUM OF SOLACE I am really digging the new James Bond. Daniel Craig does calm, cool and collected as good or maybe even better than Sean Connery or Roger Moore. One thing is for certain, there is more non-stop action in these latest two 007 films than ever read more...
The Fearless Youth of Taylor Swift
Okay, I was skeptical at first. I have never really been one to jump on the band wagon of the latest "teen idol." Well, I have come close, especially if she's cute. But after due consideration and several spins of her new CD, I have found that country music's read more...
Billy Bob and The Boxmasters On The Road Again with Willie Nelson
I just got word from Billy Bob Thornton's folks that The Boxmasters will hit the road with
Silver Travis Set to Release Second Album
I am really stoked about the upcoming sophomore release by the Silver Travis Band. I have been listening to all the various takes for well over a year, and it has shaped up to be one fantastic record. The old boys from Spartanburg, SC even managed to bring two original members read more...
It Wasn't Your Daddy's CMA Awards Show!
I could hardly wait to watch the 42nd Annual CMA Awards on the boob tube last night. Airing from Music City and hosted by Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood, the three-hour extravaganza featured performances by great country artists like The Eagles, Kid Rock, The Wailers and the guy read more...
CMA Awards are Rockin'
I am watching the CMA Awards on TV, and Lady Antebellum just burned up the stage with what, by all accounts, was a blazing Southern Rock performance. I am making a lot of notes, and tomorrow I will be writing about the show, the music, and the current face of country music. Oh, read more...
Remembering Berry Oakley
"Oakley and I were both young adults when we met, and we were both still searching for our style of playing. He had so much insight and vision. I was playing night clubs, and I was making what would be the equivalent now of about $3000 a week. Back then it was about $600 a read more...
Classic Photos: Mark Emerick and BHLT
Once upon a time there was an absolutely killer Southern Rock band called BHLT, made up of Dickey Betts, Jimmy Hall, Chuck Leavell and Butch Trucks, along with "Rook" Goldflies on bass and Danny Parks on fiddle. I have heard several boots of these guys, as well as read more...
Australia Rocks Classic Bonnie Bramlett Collection
I am such a lucky cat. Seriously. I have been loving Delaney and Bonnie ever since Junior High, and I still find it hard to believe just how nice both of them are. I met
Southern Soul Music Dominates "Soul Men" Film
SOUL MEN It is a truly strange feeling going to see a film on opening day knowing that one of its main actors is dead. It was that way with The Dark Knight and Heath Ledger, but even
Buffalo Interviewed By Canadian Author
We are proud as a peacock that fellow author and journalist Ziana Bethune of Canada asked us for an exclusive interview after we met on Facebook. Ziana did a bang up job, and I wish to personally thank her for the cyber ink. She asked a lot of questuins I had not been asked read more...
Sorry for the Lack of Postings
Hi gang. Just a brief note of explaination for the lack of posts. On Thursday, we lost one of our best friends. The family pet bird, Charlie. Charlie has been a member of our household for eleven years, and we are already missing his singing (and sometimes talking.) We love read more...
Buffalo's Soap Box: Time For Change
No matter how you look at it, America is about to change. As I watched President Elect Barrack Obama speak to some half a million people in Grant Park in Chicago last night at around midnight, I had cold chills. In all of my years watching Presidential election coverage, I have read more...
The Best of The Allman Brothers Band
Time once again for another GRITZ List. We are happy to present our latest ,The 25 Best Songs by The Allman Brothers Band. Check out the list and by all means let us know what you think. It was really read more...
Charlie Daniels Kicks it Bluegrass Style
Today was a great day. After a few days of downright cold winter-like weather, the sun returned, we hit 72 degrees and all was well in the world. But before trhe temp went up, I decided to get up early watch the new
GRITZ Movie Reviews: Secret Life of Bees; Zack and Miri
THE SECRET LIFE OF BEES Now this is my kind of film. Shot on location in South Carolina, the story takes place just as LBJ signs the read more...
Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section Inducted into Hall of Fame
Huge congratulations go out to my friends in the Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section who were inducted into The Musician's Hall of Fame on Tuesday evening in Nashville. Here is a link to a great read more...
Still Missing Duane Allman, 37 Years Later
We lost one of the very best guitar players of the Southern Rock era on this day (October 29th) back in 1971. Virtually every true blue Southern Rock fan knows that brother Duane Allman was killed in a motorcycle accident just months after the release of everybody's favorite read more...
Henry Paul and The Outlaws: The GRITZ Interview
Happy Tuesday. Tonight I am very pleased to present my long awaited interview with the one amd only Henry Paul. Henry, the country fried element of The Outlaws, founder of The Henry Paul Band and read more...
Buffalo's Soap Box: The Economy, The Election and Stealing Music
I'm stepping back up onto my reinforced industrial strength Soap Box. You have been warned. Something has to be done. No matter who becomes the president in a few days, there is a huge task ahead. The economy has never been so bad, at least in my life time. It seems read more...
GRITZ Movie Reviews: Saw V, Pride & Glory, W., Max Payne
SAW V OUR STORY SO FAR: After four films, the psycho king of torture devices known as Jigsaw is dead, but he has left read more...
Our Henry Paul Interview is On The Way
This week I finally had my long awaited interview with the one and only Henry Paul. and let me just tell you guys, it was well worth the wait. At a hefty hour and a half, it includes a lot of first person stories from Henry about the beginnings of
Cowboy Bassist George Clark Passes Away in Florida
Southern Rock bassist George Clark has passed away. I received word from band mate Tommy Talton this afternoon. I don't have any details yet, but apparently George was found dead this morning. read more...
The Southern Rock Top Ten According to Bo Bice
Bo Bice may be the single coolest cat to come out of the American Idol machine. He's cool, he's talented, and he's got a real Southern Rock heart. We are proud to launch a
Charlie Tatman is One Darn Good Rebel Rocker
Sometimes I just get crazy over a new record. Such is the case with the new album Free and Easy, by rebel rocker Charlie Tatman. Man oh man, if you dig Southern Rock and country friend rock, you must hear this guy. Check out
Thirty One Years Ago Tonight: Remembering Ronnie Van Zant and Co.
Every year at this time, my mind goes back to The Greenville Memorial Auditorium, 1977. It was 31 years ago tonight. As I type, it is 7:30 PM, and I remember it like it was yesterday. I was so excited at the age of 20 to be attending a concert by one of my favorite rock bands. I was read more...
Recalling The Nature Boy's Hey Day: Ric Flair
Let's get ready to rumble! On our second "No Holds Barred" feature, we recall the glory days of the one and only Nature Boy, Ric Flair. Perhaps the most flamboyant rassler of all time, read more...
GRITZ Movie Reviews: Body of Lies, Miracle at St. Anna, Quarantine
BODY OF LIES OUR STORY SO FAR: Leonardo DiCaprio is Roger Ferris, the CIA’s finest intelligence man, living read more...
Leanin' Toward Bama with Funky Donnie Fritts
A couple of months ago when I was down in Huntsville, Alabama for Billy Bob Thornton and The Boxmasters, I got to spend a little time with Muscle Shoals songwriting legend Donnie Fritts. We made plans to do a big GRITZ interview, and just as I was about to interview Donnie, I heard read more...
Breaking News: Tommy Bowden Steps Down as Clemson Head Coach
October 13, 2008 Talk about the end of an era. Just an hour ago, Clemson University Head Coach Tommy Bowden announced that he is stepping down from the position he has held for the past ten years.
Pro Wrestling in The Seventies: Ox Baker
I am really excited about our brand new, ongoing series No Holds Barred. The series will look at the stars and memories of the hey day of pro wrestling in the south, especially here in the Mid Atlantic area. I will be profiling many of the stars of the sport during the read more...
Spinning Darius Rucker's Hootie New Country Album
There was a bar here in Greenville for a number of years called Al's Pumphouse, and they always had some good music going on. Everything from Toy Caldwell to Tinsley Ellis, a 12-year old Derek Trucks and an up an coming band out of Columbia called Hootie and The Blowfish, who would read more...
Back To 1973 On a Cool New Sci-Fi TV Show
Finally. A really good network TV show that isn't a reality show. I just got through watching the premier episode of Life On Mars on ABC, and boy howdy, it is great. Jason O'Mara stars as NYPD Detective Sam Tyler, who, following an auto accident, finds read more...
One Magic Night at The Bowery with Alabama, Summer of 1975
The summer of 1975 was a good one for me. I turned 18 on June 24th. I had just finished eleventh grade, and I was ready for a great summer leading into my senior year. I remember buying a lot of great records that year,
Southern Rockers in North Carolina to Stage Big Benefit Concert
The following story was sent in by GRITZ reader and friend Darlene Fields, a Southern Rock kind of gal who works as an EMS worker on North Carolina. It's a story with a lot of heart. Check it out. -Buffalo Our Story begins with
GRITZ Movie Reviews: Eagle Eye, Nick & Norah, Lakeview Terrace
EAGLE EYE Steven Spielberg taps into the whole “big brother is watching you” thing and multiplies it to infinity and beyond in this sci-fi thriller.
Vintage GRITZ Interviews Unearthed; Jimmy Farrar and Randall Hall
I spent a few hours today digging through the GRITZ archives. There are still quite a few interviews and articles I'd like to reintroduce via SWAMPLAND. I was happy when I ran
Pro Wrestling in the South Back in the Day
I was on the phone with a friend last week, just catching up on this and that, when my buddy posed a question. “Did you ever get into pro rasslin’?” Now, for the record, I spell it
So Caught Up In 38 Special
I could listen to "So Caught Up in You" every single day of my life, and never get tired of it. There are just certain songs like that with me. "Layla" is another one, and so is "American Pie" and "Ramblin' Man." 38 Special have been read more...
Buffalo is a Grandfather
It has been quite an exciting 24 hours. I’ll just jump straight to the point. For the first time ever, the Buffalo is a Grandfather. I know girls, you can’t believe I am old enough to be a Grandfather. I apologize for destroying the fantasy.
Big & Rich Rock My Monday Night; Jimmy Farrar Health Update
As I write this little ol' blog, I am tapping my number 13's on the hard wood floor, watching Big & Rich in concert on Direct TV and they are just ripping it up. Dang I love them guys. They combine elements of country, Southern Rock, classic rock and anything else that fits into read more...
Buffalo's Lost Weekend: Toy Caldwell Still Rules
Apologies for skipping a day posting. I have been battling a nasty case of food poisoning the entire weekend, and am just now getting over it. I'll be back tomorrow. Meanwhile, enjoy this great video from my old friend Toy Caldwell. Keep it Real. Keep it read more...
There's Nothing Some Skynyrd Can't Cure
Hi Gang. It's been some kind of day. It all began at 345 AM when I got up and drove from Greenville to Charlotte, NC to put my wife on a plane to Hawaii, where she will be spending the next month with our daughter Hannah, whose baby is due at any moment now. (Yes, the first read more...
38 Special and Trace Adkins Join Forces
Country superstar Trace Adkins' new music video finds him live in duet with 38 Special on their classic
Touching Base with Johnny Sandlin
I had a nice phone conversation with Johnny Sandlin read more...
Swampland Celebrates Delaney & Bonnie & Friends
Greetings, fellow babies I have just completed our latest "Six Degrees of Swampland" page, this one dedicated to Delaney & Bonnie and Friends! It's your ultimate guide to the dynamic duo read more...
Special Edition of Magazine Features Great Southern Rock Articles
Heads up, Southern Rock fans. There’s a magazine out on the stands right now that you are going to want. It’s called Guitar Legends, and the issue is called “The Complete History
Elvin Bishop Week at GRITZ: The Interview, The New Album, and The FREE Music Download
I have been diggin' the music of Elvin Bishop for a lot of years, especially his records during the Capricorn era. It was quite a rush today to speak with Elvin for his first ever GRITZ interview, and relive the good ol' days and talk about his hot new album, The Blues Rolls read more...
Legendary Carolina Blues Man Nappy Brown, Dead at 78
Back during the 80's and 90's, I must have seen Nappy Brown play his show a dozen times, always backed by some of our best local musicians, many of them friends of mine. He was a hell of a performer, and I enjoyed meeting and talking with him almost as much as I enjoyed watching him read more...
Frankie Toler Hositalized, Needs Your Thoughts and Prayers
I just received word that Dave "Frankie" Toler is in the hospital in Sarasota, Florida and in need of your support and prayers. He's been fighting Hep-C for around 20 years and it's now at it's worst. He may be months away from a possible liver transplant but the doctors read more...
GRITZ Movie Reviews: Best Friend's Girl, Burn After Reading, Righteous Kill, Bangkok Dangerous
MY BEST FRIEND’S GIRL Dane Cook is a funny guy, and when he teams up with Kate Hudson, it’s pretty damned hilarious. read more...
GRITZ News Items: Americana Rocks, Shaver, Hayes Carll, FAME and Skynyrd
LEVON HELM NAMED AMERICANA ARTIST OF THE YEAR The 7th Annual Americana Music Honors and Awards show took place on Thursday (Sept. 18) in Nashville at the Mother Church of Country Music, The Ryman Auditorium. Wish I could have been there. It’s read more...
Buffalo Roaming: Back Home to Spartanburg with My Buddy Tom
Monday was a Spartanburg kind of day. My friend Tom Whitten, originally of Boston, currently working out of Cleveland, flew down for a day and a half visit, and we made a serious day of it. You could say it was a “Marshall Tucker Band Day.”
Former Marshall Tucker Band Bassist and Guitarist Operate New Recording Studio
People are always asking me, have you seen Tim Lawter and Rusty Milner? Well, now I can say "Yes, and they are both doing really well." I drove over to beautiful downtown Inman, SC last week to meet with long time Marshall Tucker Band bassist Tim Lawter in the newly read more...
Amanda Martin is The Real Deal
I first heard Amanda Martin sing earlier this month when we shared a stage while appearing at the High Lonesome Saloon in Rome, Georgia, and I knew then that she is a star in the making. She is bursting read more...
Another MuzikMafia Star is About to Go Supernova - James Otto
James Otto is the bomb. He's Donnie and he's Marie. He's a read more...
Rebel Plays "In Your Face" Southern Rock
I have just heard the future of Heavy Southern Rock, and it goes by the name Rebel. This four-man band, based in and around Anderson, SC, read more...
Bo Bice is Proud to Be Called a Southern Rocker: The GRITZ Interview
Back in 2005, I had developed a somewhat passing interest in the American Idol TV show. It was a guilty pleasure to be sure. I blame it on Kelly Clarkson who had won me over in the first season, so I kind of continued to watch here and there. At the same time the new season read more...
Buffalo Roaming: In Rome with Tommy Talton, Tommy Crain and More
DATELINE: September 6, 2008 We set sail for Rome, Georgia on a beautiful Carolina day, with the iPod pumping some good tunes to help make the drive to Atlanta more palatable. The haul down I-85 was cool, and Jill and I were rocking out the read more...
Buffalo Set To Roam to Rome: Random Notes on College Football and Sugarland
Well, tomorrow will find the Buffalo roaming once again. This time Jill and I are heading back tio The High Lonesone Saloon in Rome, Georgia, where I will once again be wearing two hats. Not only will I read more...
New Candy Coburn Video Pays Tribute to George McCorkle
Up and coming country music sensation Candy Coburn has released a new music video of her version of "Fire On The Mountain," and the great thing about it is that it is a duet with the late
GRITZ Movie Reviews: Traitor, Babylon and Disaster Movie
TRAITOR FBI agent Roy Clayton (Guy Pearce) heads up the investigation into a dangerous international conspiracy, and all clues seem read more...
Memories of Jerry Reed
Sadly, we have lost another old friend of GRITZ. Country music star, songwriter and actor Jerry Reed died on August 31, 2008 at the age of 71 of complications from emphysema. I first discovered Reed as a teenager when I was dreaming of being the next superstar disc read more...
Rhythm Pigs Pass Through Town
My Labor Day weekend kicked off with a bang. I got a call from my old buddy Timmy Fodrey telling me that his band The Rhythm Pigs would be playing in my town of Greenville, SC on Friday night. Now normally, I end up seeing or read more...
Randall Bramblett Week Continues: The GRITZ Interview
It is a special day here at Swampland.com. I finally got the Randall Bramblett interview I have wanted to get for several years now, and just in time to promote his excellent new read more...
Volunteer Jam Tour 2008 Wraps Up With Surprise Appearance By The Outlaws
The 2008 Volunteer Jam tour wrapped up on August 15th in Alpharetta, Georgia. This year's dates featured hosts The Charlie Daniels Band, along with 38 Special, Shooter Jennings, and a special appearance by The Outlaws at the final show. The Volunteer Jam started in read more...
GRITZ Movie Reviews: Future Extreme Sports, Old School Sports, Old Rockers and Playboy Bunnies
DEATH RACE Jason Statham is really making a name for himself as the next big testosterone driven action hero, and his role here as Jensen read more...
Randall Bramblett Week Kicks Off at Swampland.com
Hi guys. I hope you will check out my review of the new CD from Randall Bramblett, Now It's Time. It is a cooker. Randall recently had a big
Billy Bob Thornton and Chris Robinson Jammed with Levon Helm Last Night in Woodstock
I just heard from Billy Bob Thornton's folks that BBT had a great time in Woodstock last night (August 23, 2008), playing with The Boxmasters and jamming with
Diggin' The Fiddleworms
Sometimes I just love my job. Especially when I get to hear music that is so fresh it makes me run to the bathroom and splash cold water on my face just to make sure I ain't dreaming. Dick Cooper sent me the newest masterwork by Muscle Shoals band The Fiddleworms, and boy read more...
The Very Best of The Marshall Tucker Band
I will never forget the first time I heard the music of The Marshall Tucker Band. Not only were they a blend of every kind of music I loved, from blues to country rock to jazz, they were from my read more...
GRITZ Movie Reviews: Tropic Thunder, Mirrors and Clone Wars
TROPIC THUNDER Ben Stiller has delivered his most creative, funniest film ever. I laughed so hard I thought my head would blow off. read more...
Southern Rock's Defining Moments: The Sweet 16
Well, we are down to the final sixteen entries in the 100 Defining Moments in the History of Southern Rock. Please be sure to add a comment and let me know if you agree or not, and how many of you guessed read more...
Dick Cooper Remembers His Friend Jerry Wexler
We at GRITZ are extremely honored to present our second guest blog from Alabama writer/photographer/music mogul Dick Cooper. This time, it is personal, as Cooper writes from the heart about the late Jerry read more...
Video: Jerry Wexler On Bob Dylan
In our continuing salute to legendary record producer
Southern Music's Best Friend, Jerry Wexler Has Died at 91
Jerry Wexler was rock and roll. He was also rhythm and blues. Oh, and Southern rock. Oh, yeah, Wex was a huge fan of Southern music of all sorts, and of the key architects in the history of music over the past 50 years. He was instrumental in helping Phil Walden read more...
Friday Afternoon with Edwin McCain
August 15, 2008 The Bohemian Cafe in Greenville, SC is just a couple of miles from my house. It is in the same building with Horizon Records, and they are always having good music in there. read more...
Fun Music Videos: Winters Brothers, Danny Joe Brown, Charlie Daniels Band and Drive By Truckers with Kelly Hogan
Just for fun, I thought I'd post some very cool YouTube videos. I hope y'all dig 'em. Keep it Real. Keep it Southern. Buffalo
The Kids are Alright
It has been a summer to remember, to be sure. Lots of good music, movies and fun. But the most important thing that took place this summer in my life involved my two children, Ben and Hannah. Well, technically, they are my step-children, but since I have been a part of their lives read more...
More Southern Rock History, From "Stompin Room Only" to "Highway Call"
You asked for it, you got it! The next ten entries in our ongoing series, The 100 Defining Moments in Southern Rock History,
GRITZ Movie Reviews: Mummy 3, Pants 2 and Pineapple Express
THE MUMMY: TOMB OF THE DRAGON EMPEROR Brandon Fraiser returns in the third installment of the Mummy series, as he and his wife and -kid read more...
Barbeque is Not a Verb: A Musical Tribute To Southern BBQ
There's nothing us Southerners like more than barbeque. Football comes close, as does Southern Rock, NASCAR, professional wrestling and cold beer, but when all is said and done, the pork will always rise to the top. Well, some guys from read more...
Check Out Chuck Leavell in Mystery & Manners
Just a note to anyone who has not yet discovered to full scope of SWAMPLAND.COM. James Calemine writes some mighty groovy articles in his Mystery & Manners section of the Swamp, and I just had to point you all to a great new piece on our buddy Chuck Leavell. read more...
Random Notes: Beijing, Bernie Mac and New Music
Well the Summer Olympics are underway in Beijing, and I watched a good bit of the opening ceremony last night on the boob tube. While some of it bored me to tears, I must admit that the show was filled with grandeur and color, especially during the march of the nations, with various read more...
Swampland's Billy Bob Index Page Updated with New Videos
Hi guys. Our Six Degrees of Swampland: Billy Bob Thornton page has been heavily updated with the new music video from The Boxmasters (#17 on the Americana Charts this week) "The Poor House," read more...
Buffalo Roaming: Alabama Trip Wrap Up and Linkage
This past week was a real blast for me. Every time i visit Alabama I feel surrounded by friends, and its a great feeling. From the visit to Penne’s river home on Thursday and seeing Billy C. Farlow, to the two days with Billy Bob Thornton and The Boxmasters and the awesome read more...
Widespread Congratulations To Our Own James Calemine
I'd like to personally congratulate my friend and fellow Swampland writer James Calemine. Widespread Panic read more...
Dick Cooper's Photos From Cooperpalooza
I am still reeling from the long weekend and the great party at Dick Cooper's on Sunday. I thought we'd share some of Cooper's photos, as he is a true pro with a camera. Check 'em out.
Buffalo Roaming: Day Four, Cooper's Party
What a great weekend. Sunday morning, I woke up and went downstairs for one of those great made to order omelets at the Hilton. The lady there is one helluva cook, and my grits were damn near perfect too. I sucked back four cups of coffee. It wasn’t
Buffalo Roaming: Video of Billy Bob's Interview, Party Post Tomorrow
Hello sports fans. Just in from 12 hours on the road from Cooper's house and boy howdy am I tired. Last night's party was amazing, but there was little sleep to be had. We'll talk tomorrow. Suffice it to say the jam rocked with Jason Isbell, Scott Boyer III, Billy C. read more...
Buffalo Roaming: Day Three with Billy Bob and Me
As a part of my “no sleeping allowed” policy, I got up at 8:30, after sitting up talking to my buddy Sonny Edwards until late - thirty. Let me see, I went to bed at 3:30, so that was my five hours. Not my usual quota.
Buffalo Roaming: Day Two, Billy Bob and The Boys in Huntsville
Penne woke me up at 5 a.m. Apparently, people on the river are early birds. I mumbled and grumbled and she made a pot of Boxmasters coffee, then cooked some good Southern breakfast, eggs and bacon, grain toast and fresh fruit, the blueberries were awesome.
Buffalo Roaming: Day One, Down By The Lazy River in Bamalama
Well, after seven hours of driving, two torrential storms and one near death experience, I find myself in the comfort of a beautiful two story home on the Elk River (which feeds into the Tennessee River down the road a ways as a matter of fact), sitting comfotably read more...
Buffalo Roaming to Alabama
Well, the Buffalomobile is all gassed up (only $49 at Wal-Mart) and I am ready to head out on my big Alabama adventure tomorrow morning. It's going to be a long hot drive, to be sure, but I am sure it will be a large time. Tomorrow I get to meet fellow Swamplander read more...
Ten More Defining Moments in Southern Rock History
Did any of you see Gregg Allman in the movie Rush? He played a drug dealing king pin, and a pretty spooky character. That movie disturbed me more that ten Stephen King flicks, because it was so real. That's why Gregg's role in the movie made our list of
Saying Goodbye to an Old Friend, Mickie Wofford
I just received some sad news. An old friend and former band mate of mine, Michael "Mickie" Wofford, died on July 24th.. Mickie, who lived in Landrum, SC, was 44. I have nothing but happy memories of Mickie. When I met him, he was playing in a local read more...
GRITZ Movie Review: X-Files Film Will Thrill Fans
The great thing about the new X-Files movie is the human element. Rather than concentrating on aliens and the TV series’ past mythology, Chris Carter hands us a
Still More of The Defining Moments in Southern Rock History
Hi guys. My apologies for the two days of down time. We experienced a problem with our DSL internet service that virtually crippled the GRITZ offices for almost two days. We are happy to come back kicking with the
Jimmie Van Zant Delivers His Best Album Yet
Somebody say Hell Yeah! I have just finished reviewing a straight up redneck rock and roll masterpiece. A Southern Rock opus. An infectious, hard driving, down south jukin,' 100 proof Dixie fried winner. And it was recorded by a VanZant. Imagine that. My Name is read more...
GRITZ Movie Review: The Dark Knight Rocks, The Joker Rules
THE DARK KNIGHT Well, the wait is over, and yes, The Dark Knight lives up to its hype - tenfold. And before you start speculating, allow me to say that the tragic death of Heath Ledger plays
Montgomery Gentry (Southern) Rock The Country
When it comes to injecting country with a big ol' dose of Southern Rock, nobody does it better than Montgomery Gentry. Case in point, their newest album, Back When I Knew it All, which may read more...
Listen to The GRITZ Radio Hour Online This Weekend
A couple of weeks ago, we announced the debut of The GRITZ Radio Hour on the Mighty Field of Vision Internet Radio Station. Unfortunately, there were some major problems with the server and the broadcast was not fully aired. The good news is, it is all repaired now, and our read more...
GRITZ Presents Exclusive Billy Bob Thornton/Boxmasters Videos Courtesy The Dell Lounge
Thanks to the fine folks at The Dell Lounge, along with Billy Bob Thortnton, The Boxmasters, and Lisa Roy, we are happy to add several new videos to our Six Degrees of Swampland: Billy Bob Thornton read more...
Dave Muse Leaves Marshall Tucker, New Horn Man Hired
I spoke to Doug Gray of The Marshall Tucker Band today (and in a true "Two-fer Tuesday, I also spoke with
"Free Bird" Factoids
There’s a reason why “Free Bird” was named as GRITZ best loved Southern Rock song in history. Actually, there are a lot of reasons. Every 15 seconds, someone, read more...
GRITZ Movie Review: Hellboy 2, Journey to the Center of the Earth, and Meet Dave
HELLBOY II: THE GOLDEN ARMY Summer just got a lot hotter. Ron Pearlman rocks once again as the hellspawn who loves candybars and 8-Track read more...
Jimmy Farrar Hospitalized Following Stroke
I just learned this morning that our friend Jimmy Farrar is in the hospital, following stroke last week. I spoke with Jimmy this morning an he sounds great. He told me that he has limited control over his left side and arm, but with a lot of work, they expect a full read more...
Bonnie Bramlett's Favorite Southern Rock Albums
Just a quick heads up. We have added Bonnie Bramlett's Top Ten Southern Rock albums to the list of favorites of the stars. Check out Bonnie's list and let us know what you think. Buffalo
More of The Defining Moments in Southern Rock History
Here we go again, folks. It's the second installment in our 100 Defining Moments in Southern Rock History. From The Allman Brothers' first cover story in Rolling Stone, to the deaths of Tommy Caldwell, read more...
Confessions of a Movie Buff
by Michael Buffalo Smith It’s been a heck of a good summer for movies so far, with super heroes of every size and shape, wacky comedies from all of the masters, and the return of legends like Indiana Jones. But there is still plenty to look forward to read more...
Buffalo Interviewed for Carolina Magazine
Last week I found myself with the tables turned, as I was interviewed by a new magazine out of South Carolina called Carolina Faces. SInce they don't yet have their website up, and since the editor was kind enough to send me a file of the finished piece, I thought I'd read more...
Hittin' The Note's Bill Ector Has Passed Away
I just recieved word that our friend Bill Ector, publisher of Hittin' The Note Magazine, passed away this afternoon. He was a great talent and a great man. A very sad day. Our own James Calemine was a good friend of Bill's.
Southern Rock's Most Defining Moments
You've all heard of "going the extra mile" for your art, right? Well, fellow babies, The Buffalo has been doing that for a few days now, assembling a list of The 100 Defining Moments in Southern read more...
Rare Bonnie Bramlett Video
Every Bonnie Bramlett fan knows that Bonnie was a regular on the old Roseanne TV show during the eighties, but how read more...
Cool Bootleg Video from Friday's Performance by Tommy Talton Band and Jimmy Hall
Hi Guys. It's Monday night, and I just got an e-mail from Tommy Talton, telling me someone shot a personal video of one of the songs he and Jimmy Hall performed for the movie Friday night. Although the video is shakey, you can still hear why these guys are the very best, read more...
GRITZ Movie Review: Hancock Dominates Independence Day
HANCOCK What is it about Will Smith and 4th of July blockbusters? From Independence Day to Men in Black (one and two) read more...
Hanging with Jimmy Hall and Tommy Talton On The Movie Set
I hope everyone had a great Fourth of July weekend. We sure did. Saturday we made our way down to Georgia to watch a day of filming on a new Southern movie called Dixie Times. The really cool thing about it was that our friends Jimmy Hall and Tommy Talton were read more...
GRITZ Radio Hour Premieres Online
Hey guys. As an experiment of sorts, we are presenting a pilot episode of The GRITZ Radio Hour, a two hour program of music hosted by yours truly, and airing over the Mighty Field of Vision internet radio station, now read more...
The Beautiful Bonnie Bramlett: The GRITZ Interview
We are proud to present an all new interview with Southern Soul Sister Number One, the only ever "Allman Sister," the magnificent Bonnie Bramlett, our first interview with her in over eight years. Bonnie talks about her great new album Beautiful, as well as read more...
Billy Bob Thornton Gets Roasted
A few weeks back I told y'all about Billy Bob Thornton and The Boxmasters new coffee. Today I received my very own parcel via US Mail filled with both whole bean and ground
Jackson Crossing Album Update
The following item was sent in by my friend Tom Clarke over at Hittin' The Note regarding some of our friends down the road in Spartanburg, SC. -Buff ••• The debut album by Jackson Crossing, the band that read more...
CD Giveaway Winners Announced
We are happy to announce the winners in our two latest CD Giveaways. Winners of our autographed Gator Country CDs include: Paul Oyler of Mercer, PA Robert Creamer of Winchester, read more...
Edwin McCain Digs Deep into His Soul On New Release
Edwin McCain is back with a new album, and it may well be his finest work yet. There's a good reason for that. He has wanted to do an r&b record his whole life.
GRITZ Movie Reviews: Wanted; Wall-E
WANTED Yet another movie based on a comic book, although this book is not quite as well known as your Iron Man or your read more...
Tom Coerver CD Release Saturday in Baton Rouge
Tom Coerver and Goin’ South will have a CD release party for their new CD From The Mud… To The Sky at
Col. Bruce Hampton is in Macon to Gig, Talk About "Slingblade"
Col. Bruce Hampton is in Macon, Georgia all weekend long, headlining a show on Saturday at Cox Capitol Theatre. On Sunday, Bruce will return to the theatre for a question and answer session about the read more...
Buffalo's Soap Box: What I Believe
The sound you just heard was the sound of boards creaking as I stepped up onto my soap box. I just can’t hold back any longer. I have to rant a little. Please bear with me, do not adjust your set, and we will return to our regularly scheduled programming immediately following read more...
Coming Soon to GRITZ
Just a quick note to tell y'all what we're working on for you here at GRITZ. Coming soon, CD reviews of new releases from Montgomery Gentry, Edwin McCain, Emory Joseph, Jewel, Mikal Evans, Sugarland, Lefty Williams, Watermelon Slim, Rob Roy Parnell, Hayshaker and many read more...
KISS My GRITZ
Happy birthday to me...Happy birthday to me. Yes, I made it another year, and I am as happy as a clam. Because it is my birthday today, I am going to do something different. I am going to write about a band that is as far removed from Southern Rock as Willie Nelson is from read more...
Winters Brothers Band Summer Jam : A Photo Retrospective
Well, judging from all reports, it was another extra special Winters Brothers Band Southern Summer Jam up in Tennessee last weekend. Everyone had a great time. I sure wish I could have been there, but I plan on being at next year's big 30th Anniversary Jam to be sure. Donnie read more...
GRITZ Movie Reviews: Get Smart, The Love Guru Good for Laughs
GET SMART Steve Carell is one more funny guy, and he does a great job of making the Maxwell Smart character his own, rather than rely on the read more...
Remembering George Carlin
I am pretty sad today, having just learned that comedian George Carlin has died. Carlin, who had a history of heart trouble, died of heart failure Sunday, June read more...
Sonny Landreth Smokes the Strings On New Album
Sonny Landreth is a simply amazing guitarist. I have had the good fortune of seeing him perform both at The Handlebar here in Greenville, SC, and at The Americana Music Conference in Nashville, and read more...
The Cities That Gave Us Southern Rock
I find it interesting just how many of our greatest Southern Rockers come from the same cities. Especially our number one city for Southern Rock, Jacksonville, Florida. Check out our list of the Top Ten read more...
GAC Contest, Vote for The Southern Boys Band
Greetings from South Carolina. I just heard about this contest that our friend
New Documentary Project Will Present the Definitive History of Country Music
I just got the word that Shout! Factory Records and the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum are planning to produce a multi-part original series of specials on the history of country music for television and DVD. The partners will seek worldwide broadcast read more...
Justin The Nick of Time... The 2nd Generation of Marshall Tucker McCorkle
I am happier than a redneck on a fishing bank with a cooler full of beer and a ten pound catfish on the end of my line to present an interview with Justin McCorkle, son of my friend, the late George read more...
Video Blog: Jakson Spires and Blackfoot
I was speaking with Sherry Spires yesterday, the wife of the late Jakson Spires, my good friend and spiritual brother. We had a great conversation and a few laughs recalling the good ol' days of The read more...
GRITZ Movie Reviews: The Happening, The Hulk
THE HAPPENING M. Night Shyamalan is from another place. I am not sure if it is a planet or a parallel dimension, but the fact is, the read more...
Win The New Tom Coerver CD from GRITZ
Louisiana guitar slinger Tom Coerver has a new one out, and it rocks. Don't believe me? Listen to it for yourself. How, you ask? Well, we just happen to have ten copies to give away. read more...
Bonnie, Delaney Back On Top Individually This Summer
During the sixties and early seventies Delaney and Bonnie Bramlett changed the face of popular music forever with their read more...
Watch and Listen: Ten Great DVD's for Southern Rockers
Man oh man do I love movies. I guess movies are my second favorite entertainment besides music. Well, truth be told, books rank right up at the top of that list as well. But when you combine music and movies, look out, you have my attention. For my new list, I wanted to read more...
GRITZ Movie Reviews: Kung Fu Panda, The Zohan
KUNG FU PANDA I was a bit apprehensive about his one. The trailer didn’t get me rockin’ whatsoever. Of course I love read more...
It's All About The Song: The Greatest Songwriters of The Southern Rock Era
I am probably going to get some other opinions on this one. We're happy to present our list of The Ten Best Songwriters of The Southern Rock Era. Check out the list and let us know what you read more...
Sonny Edwards Reports from BamaJam; Hot Weather, Hotter Music
Bamajam wraps up tonight in Enterprise, Alabama. Our Alabama correspondent Sonny Edwards is smack dab in the middle of all the 95 degree heat and all the action. Sonny has been on the scene all three days, snappig photos and read more...
Wash Boards and Chicken Coups: The Ten Best Instrumentalists of Southern Rock
Let me begin by wishing everybody a GREAT weekend. Only one week until the big annual Winters Brothers Band Summer Jam. See you there! Our latest Top Ten list runs down the
John Galvin of Molly Hatchet Turns in a GRITZ Guest Blog
John Galvin of Molly Hatchet is one of my favorite keyboard players. He is also someone I am proud to call a friend. Over the years, I have discovered his vast diversity in music, which closely mirrors read more...
Phil Walden to Be Honored in Macon Thursday
Senator Robert Brown of Georgia has announced thet Phil Walden will be honored this Thursday, June 5th at 12 Noon in Macon, Georgia. A ceremony will name the I-16 / Martin
Random Notes: Bo Diddley, MTV Awards, Boxmasters, Winters Jam
Well, summer has made it to South Carolina, and it's hotter than Angelina Jolie in a sweat lodge. But I ain't complainin’ none. I am pretty tired of the cold.
Free Gator Country Live CDs
No, you're not dreaming. We do indeed have a fist full of the hot new live and kickin' CD from Gator Country to give away, and to make it even sweeter, the liner notes book is signed by all the read more...
Billy Bob's Best Movies Ever
And now for something completely different. I thought it might be cool to add some different stuff to our ongoing Southern Rock Lists. Things that might appeal to other old Southern Rockers like read more...
GRITZ Movie Reviews; Sex and the City; The Strangers
SEX AND THE CITY I had no idea just how huge the cult following for this former HBO series was. I mean, even here in read more...
Henry Paul's Marshall Tucker Band Memories: GRITZ Guest Blog
We are very pleased to bring you the latest in our continuing series of Guest Blogs, this one written by The Outlaws own Henry Paul. Henry recalls his early love of The Marshall Tucker Band and the men behind the group. Check out
Winters Brothers Annual Jam is On The Way
It’s almost time again for one of our favorite events of the year. The Winters Brothers Band will host their 29th Annual Southern Summer Jam on Saturday, June 14, 2008 at the family's farm in read more...
A Trip to The Keys: Southern Rock's Greatest Keyboard Players
And the lists just keep on coming... This time we run down the Greatest Keyboard Players of the Southern Rock Era. They're all here, the Hammond B-3, the piano - from Chuck Leavell to Taz read more...
Non-Southern Pick of The Week: Steve Miller Band Live in Chicago
Steve Miller has been making hit records for quite a long time. Maybe that’s why I found myself grinning from ear to ear and singing along the whole time this outstanding live
Four Strings and An Attitude: Southern Rock's Best Bass Players
How about another Southern Rock List? This time we run down the Ten Greatest Bass Guitar Players of The Southern Rock read more...
New Tommy Talton Album is a Real Treat
I am very excited about the new Tommy Talton release. I have been listening to many of the songs in various states of completion for over a year, and the final album is simply read more...
Skynyrd's Billy Powell Has Emergency Surgery
I just got word that our friend Billy Powell of Lynyrd Skynyrd was forced to have an emergency partial revision hip replacement surgery in Jacksonville, Florida on read more...
GRITZ Movie Reviews: Indiana Jones Still Rocks
INDIANA JONES AND THE KINGDOM OF THE CRYSTAL SKULL Yes, I am a fan. I must have seen Raiders of the Lost Ark a dozen read more...
Give The Drummer Some...
Where would any good Southern Rock band be without the drummer. The back beat. Ain't nothing like a powerhouse drummer. Folks like Artimus Pyle, Jak Spires and Paul Riddle were literally the driving force behind their respective bands. We have listed the ten best drummers of read more...
BamaJam is June 5-7, Make Plans to Attend
Excitement is mounting down in Enterprise, Alabama, in anticipation of The First Annual BamaJam Music and Arts Festival. Put together by our friends at Ronnie Gilley Entertainment, the blow out Southern Rock, Country and Bluegrass mega fest will happen June 5-7, 2008. GRITZ read more...
New Gator Country Album Recalls Hatchet's Glory Days
I have just had my head blown completely off. No foolin.' I am looking up at my headless body from the floor, where my head landed amongst a stack of lame CDs I am putting on eBay. I don't know how my hands continue to type without seeing what I am doing, but it doesn't read more...
The Top 25 Songs of The Southern Rock Era
And the lists just keep on a comin.' Our latest addition to our Southern Rock Lists is our accounting of the 25 Greatest read more...
Last Night's Southern Rock Jam Was a Blast
Last night was great fun. Me and some of my Southern Rock pals played a show for the Relay for Life event for The American Cancer Society. The show was on the football field at Greer High School in between Greenville and Spartanburg, SC.
New CD Review: The Boxmasters
Check out our new CD review of THE read more...
New GRITZ List: Top Vocalists of the Southern Rock Era
"Way down in Alabama/Shoutin' Bamalama..." What a rocking song. What a great singer. I never get tired of listening to Jimmy Hall. Never. Which is why he landed in the top spot in our list of
Hank "Sugarfoot" Garland Movie Looks Great
Growing up in Spartanbrg, SC, I was always running into people who were under the misconception that guitar legend Hank Garland was dead. The truth was, Hank had been read more...
Southern Gospel Icon Dottie Rambo Dies in Crash
Southern Gospel singer-songwriter Joyce "Dottie" Rambo died early this morning (May 11, 2008) when the bus she was in ran off a road in southwest Missouri and struck an embankment.
Buffalo's Non-Southern Pick of the Week: Zappa Plays Zappa
Yes, I know it comes as a shock. Ol’ Buffalo actually listens to music other than Southern Rock and Outlaw Country. I’m afraid it is true. I like a whole lot of different styles, and because of that, I have decided to start recommending a “Non-Southern” Pick read more...
GRITZ Movie Reviews: Speed Racer Finishes Last; What Happens in Vegas; Made of Honor
SPEED RACER Well there was certainly enough hype for this one going in. After all, it’s legacy as a classic Japanimation cartoon and read more...
New Features, Capricorn Records, Southern Rock Lists
We are happy to add a couple of new ongoing features here at GRITZ. The first is our Tribute to Capricorn Records Page, which features links to all of the articles and interviews related to the Southern read more...
Eddy Arnold Dead at 89
Eddy Arnold died this morning (May 8, 2008) in Tennessee. The Country Music Hall of Famer was 89 years old. Growing up in Spartanburg, SC, I recall Eddy read more...
Billy Bob Thornton and The Boxmasters Premier New Music Video Today
Billy Bob Thornton and The Boxmasters' video "The Poor House" will premiere on GAC - TV today. "The Poor House" is the lead track from The Boxmasters self-titled 2-CD set to be read more...
Charlie and Hazel Daniels Honored by Cumberland University
Nashville, Tennessee - May 5th, 2008 Cumberland University recently honored Wilson County resident and country music icon Charlie Daniels read more...
The Legends of Southern Rock, a Guide
Greetings from Carolina. We are happy to present our new index page for our Legends of Southern Rock series. From here, you can always surf over to your favorite Southern Rock band's Swampland read more...
GRITZ Movie Reviews: Iron Man is a Heavy Metal Hit
IRON MAN Iron Man may well be the smartest and coolest super hero movie to date, and that is hard to say, considering how big a Batman fan I read more...
Between Texas and Hawaii
It's been a busy week here in the land of GRITZ and SWAMPLAND... We are very happy to share the latest feature in our Legends of Southern Rock series, that "lil' ol' band from Texas," ZZ Top.
Billy Bob and Buffalo Talk About Boxmasters
I dreamed I was a teenage Boxmaster... Billy Bob Thornton's ultra cool hillbilly-mod band The Boxmasters will release their debut album, a double disc set, on June 10th, just prior to embarking on their highly anticipated summer tour. The CD features one disc full of all read more...
New CD Reviews: Jackson Rohm, Beat Daddys and Mighty Handful
Well, it's 50 degrees at 6:15 PM here in Greenville. Tell me again what the date is? Of course, it was almost 80 degrees yesterday, so... I hope you will check out our three new CD reviews just posted today. All three are really good discs. Singer songwriter
More Vintage GRITZ Articles Unearthed; Jimmie Van Zant, Jerry Carrigan, Jimmy Johnson Family
Today I'd like to bring back three more classic features from our GRITZ archives, for your enjoyment and information. The first one is an interview Scott Greene conducted eight years ago with Jimmie read more...
For The Record: Haunting the Local Indie Record Stores
To me there is nothing more fun than spending a few hours thumbing through LPs and CDs at a used record store. I have always loved doing it, searching for buried treasure and riding the old nostalgia train. Back during the seventies and eighties I made a lot of trips read more...
Rick Godfrey Returning to Upstate South Carolina
Former Garfeel Ruff guitarist Rick Godfrey returns to Upstate South Carolina this weekend to perform at a benefit for read more...
Merlefest Streaming Live Online Right Now
The South's premier country-bluegrass-Americana get together Merlefest, kicked off last night in North Carolina. Swampland's own Derek Halsey is front and center and reports that the weather so far is read more...
Remembering Phil Walden
It was two years ago today that the Southern Rock world lost one of our true pioneers. Phil Walden, who was born in my home town of Greenville, SC, was the co-founder of
GRITZ Movie Reviews: Sarah Marshall, 88 Minutes, Prom Night and Forbidden Kingdom
FORGETTING SARAH MARSHALL From the same wacky folks that brought us the hilarious Superbad and Knocked Up, comes the read more...
Development in Macon Will Include a Capricorn Records Museum
Wow. Looks like great minds do indeed run along the same track. According to this news story, the new development in downtown Macon will indeed house a Capricorn Records read more...
Why I Love Bonnie Bramlett
I remember reading about Delaney and Bonnie a lot back in high school, during those days when I was constantly read more...
Capricorn Controversy in Downtown Macon
Interesting news story I found regarding the old Capricorn Records Studio building in downtown Macon, Georgia. Be sureto watch the video of the news story with footage of the old studios.
Chuck Leavell Holds His Own in Stones Movie
The jury has returned the verdict. The Stones have officially beat out The Beatles. When I was a kid back in the ‘60’s, there was an ongoing battle over who were the true
Charlie Daniels' GRITZ Guest Blog; Memories of Toy Caldwell
We are happy to present our second Guest Blog, this one written by our good buddy the legendary Godfather of Southern Rock himself, Charlie Daniels. Charlie writes about his dear old friend Toy read more...
Jackson Crossing and Other Great Bands of Spartanburg, SC
My old hometown of Spartanburg, SC is turning into the new Athens, with an array of great new bands all over town. In the coming weeks we will look into several of them, including Southern rockers Silver Travis, The Southern Boys (actually from Tennessee, but
Vintage GRITZ Articles Unearthed; Hatchet, Skynyrd, Tucker, Ricky Skaggs and More
It's time once again to add a few more Vintage Gritz articles to the archives, and I hope you'll check 'em out for a "blast from the past." Added today is one of our first interviews from 1999 with
GRITZ Movie Reviews: Street Kings, Nim's Island, The Ruins
STREET KINGS Keanu Reeves stars as Detective Tom Ludlow, a man with a lot of personal pain that he is always trying to drown with Vodka read more...
Ex-Trick Pony Singer Heidi is Back to Rock Your World
I always loved Trick Pony, and had the chance to see them up close and personal several times during the annual Angelus concerts in Tampa, Florida. One night during the 2006 show, somewhere after read more...
More Southern Rock Lists: Billy Bob Thornton
I am happy to present another list of Favorite Southern Rock Albums for your approval. This list comes from none other than Billy Bob Thornton, who is a true lover of Southern Rock if ever there was read more...
The Delaney Bramlett Interviews: Delaney On Janis, George, Eric and Duane
Well, I have been burning the midnight oil again, putting together and publishing Part Two of my interview with the iconic Delaney Bramlett. It's weird how sometimes the material excites me so much that I read more...
Billy Bob Thornton's Boxmasters Signed to Vanguard
Billy Bob Thornton and The Boxmasters have signed a deal with Vanguard with a 2-CD set due out June 10. The Boxmasters, who we first wrote about after attending their
Delaney Bramlett Sits Down with Gritz: Part One
I have been a fan of Delaney and Bonnie since my early high school days, and of all the hundreds (thousands?) of celebrities I have interviewed thus far, none have gotten me more excited with anticipation than the prospect of
Next Skynyrd Album Will Have Nashville Influence
Gary Rossington says that Lynyrd Skynyrd plans to include the long bootleged song "Cottonmouth Country" read more...
Skynyrd Will Cruise Again in 2009 with Frynds
I just got word that Lynyd Skynyrd will again host their southern rock cruise called the Simple Man Cruise in January of 2009. This will be the band's third cruise, and will be the first to feature three of southern rock's read more...
Football Film "Leatherheads" Brings Hollywood to Carolina
There’s been quite a lot of anticipation here in Greenville, SC over the past few months. I mean, everywhere you go you run into someone who was either an extra in Leatherheads, or helped with something or another on the set. And then there are
GRITZ Movie Reviews: Stop Loss, 21, Meet The Browns, more
STOP LOSS Of the plethora of Iraqi War movies that have hit the silver screen over the past couple of years, Stop Loss may very read more...
Jimmy Farrar: "This Ain't Molly Hatchet !"
I spoke with our buddy Jimmy Farrar today about his band Gator Country. As most of you know, Gator Country is one hot rockin' Florida band that features several past members of
Montgomery Gentry Have a Hot New Album On the Way
"Back When I Knew It All" has been Montgomery Gentry's fastest rising single to date, and on June 10th, they will release the album of the same name. This will be their seventh read more...
Shooter Jennings Rocking On Video
I just spent an hour on YouTube listening to some mighty great music. In keeping with my recent post about the remarkable Shooter read more...
Allmans Postpone Beacon Run as Gregg Allman Heals
The Allman Brothers Band have announced that they are postponing their annual run of 15 shows at New York City’s Beacon Theatre set for May 5-24, with rescheduled dates TBA. In addition, they have read more...
The Lost Shooter Jennings Interview
Shooter Jennings rocks. There's no doubt about it. Shooter represents everything GRITZ is about, blending classic Southern read more...
The Best of Southern Rock
I have made lists for as long as I can remember. In fact, somewhere around here I have a spiral notebook I started in 1976 with lisitings of my favorite LPs, singles and bands that year and in years to come. The one thing that blows my mind is that the Allman Brothers read more...
Lady Antebellum Rocks Their Country with Free Download
In keeping with our mission to bring together the best of Southern rock and the best of the new country music, I want to highly recommend a new country act by the name of
Looking for Some Real Southern Recipes
I wanted to make sure y'all didn't miss the call from the Southern Foodways Alliance for good Southern recipes. Check out the information here. But don't send your recipe for fried possum fritters with read more...
More Back Home Memories of Marshall Tucker
I woke up at three in the morning last night thinking about The Marshall Tucker Band. No, I don’t make it a habit of losing sleep reminiscing over the glory days of Southern read more...
Merlefest is Coming Back Home in April
One of our favorite music festivals returns in April. The massive Merlefest hits Wilkes Community College once again, bringing with it more good music than you can shake a stick at. In the early read more...
Up Close and Personal with Chris Hicks
We are pleased as punch to present our brand spanking new interview with the great Chris Hicks. Read Chris' comments on playing with The Marshall Tucker Band, The Outlaws, Deep South and his own band, as read more...
Just What is GRITZ ?
This year GRITZ celebrates our tenth year online. Over the past decade we have gone through a lot of changes, and enjoyed the contributions of a lot of great writers, photographers and artists. A little over a year ago, GRITZ became a part of Swampland Media, and went from being a read more...
GRITZ Movie Reviews: Horton, Doomsday, Bank Job, and More
HORTON HEARS A WHO This was one of the first books I remember reading back in first grade. Like most kids, I was fascinated by the rhyming read more...
Thinking About Jakson, Three Years Later
Exactly three years ago today, on March 16, 2005, my world was rocked like it hadn’t been rocked in quite some time. The powerhouse drummer and songwriter behind Blackfoot and The read more...
Chris Hicks CD Winners Announced
Congratulations to the following five winners. All of the entries were great, and we really enjoyed reading them. Please continue to enter our various contests. Everyone will most likely win eventually. Dewayne Fields, La Grange, NC Chris Horn, read more...
Getting to Know The Crowes
Somehow I missed the first coming of The Black Crowes. The Atlanta boys hit the scene during a time when I was knee deep in
Racing Drag and Dirt Track with The Marshall Tucker Band
During the early ‘70’s you could find a dirt track racer running the round track at Greenville Pickens Speedway on Saturday nights emblazoned with the sponsor name - The Marshall Tucker read more...
Midnight in the Garden of Good Southern Rock: Late Night Tea & TV
I love it when things like this happen. I was sitting up late tonight writing, as I often do. Beside me a nice hot cup of ralaxation tea that tasted as good as it smelled. My wife had brewed it up for me before she headed off to bed. She's good that way. What would I do read more...
Billy Bob Thornton Speaks at George Lindsey Film Festival
The 11th Annual George Lindsey Film Festival was held down in Florence, Alabama last week. I can say from experience, the Festival is more fun than a barrel of Goobers. The year I attended, I met George read more...
Chris Hicks is Red Hot & Smokin', Win His New CD for Free
Chris Hicks was chosen as the pic of the week by Zig Zag Live, The well known company rewarded Hicks with cases of cigarette rolling papers, rolling machines, a Zig Zag t-shirt, and an awesome Zig Zag Les Paul guitar, read more...
Volunteer Jam to Feature 38 Special, Shooter Jennings, with Hosts CDB
On April 11th, The Volunteer Jam 2008 Tour kicks off. This year's dates will feature our friends The Charlie Daniels Band, 38 Special and Shooter Jennings.
The Southern Rock of SwampdaWamp
Say you love Southern rock? Well, you’re gonna love SwampdaWamp. The Charlotte, NC based band that is on their way to very top of the genre.
John Rich is Recording a Big Solo Album
I am really intrigued with John Rich. I just finished watching the finale of his CMT reality show Gone Country, and while I disagree with his choice of winner (Julio Iglasias, Jr., whereas I was just sure Bobby Brown was going to win) I am read more...
GRITZ Movie Reviews: The Other Boleyn Girl, Semi Pro
THE OTHER BOLEYN GIRL After watching the first season of The Tudors on HBO last year, I was locked and loaded for this one. The read more...
"Mamo" Bramlett Has Passed Away; Delaney Interview Coming
I was on the phone with Delaney Bramlett this afternoon, conducting the first in a series for Swampland called "The Delaney Chronicles," which will delve into the many great stories and memories of this remarkable musical icon. Part one will be posted soon, so be sure to read more...
Chris Hicks Rocks
I spoke to Doug Gray this afternoon. He was in the airport in Cinncinatti, flying back to Carolina from last night’s show in San Diego, California. We were talking about
When Nantucket Ruled The Earth
I was talking to my friend Dewayne “aka: Rebyll” this afternoon when the conversation shifted to his first live concert experience. It was Molly Hatchet and Nantucket. This got me to read more...
Chris Cagle Debuts at Number One on Country Charts
My LIife's Been a Country Song, the fourth album from Capitol Records Nashville artist Chris Cagle, debuted at #1 on Billboard’s “Current Country” chart, with 36,600 in
Buddy Miles Dies at Home in Texas
GRITZ has lost another good friend. The legendary drummer Buddy Miles passed on this past Tuesday, February 26, 2008 at the age of 60 from congestive heart failure at his home in Austin, Texas.
38 Years Ago Tonight: The Allman Brothers Band
The Allman Brothers Band played at Mercer University on this dare, February 27, back in 1970. That’s thirty-eight years ago for those of you keeping score at home. One of my read more...
GRITZ Talks to Grits Grisham of The Ghost Riders
One of the greatest things about my annual trek down to Tampa for the Angelus benefit is that I get to meet so many wonderful read more...
GRITZ Movie Reviews: Vantage Point; Definitely Maybe; Roscoe Jenkins
VANTAGE POINT The President of the United States is shot during an anti-terrorist summit in Spain, and we get to relive the event read more...
My 2008 Oscar Predictions
The 80th Academy Awards comes to the boob tube this Sunday night, February 24, 2008. Those of you who read GRITZ on a regular basis know that the only thing that even comes close to my love of music are movies and books. This may be the first year I have actually seen all of read more...
Obama, Spooner and a Drive By Southern Rock and Roller
Back in 1991 I was Executive Editor and co-founder of an alternative press entertainment publication called EDGE in Greenville, SC. We had a lot of good times during those years, interviewing national and local music heroes and writing reviews and editorial read more...
Little Richard Gets Standing Ovation at Ryman
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) -- It's a standing ovation for rock 'n' roll pioneer Little Richard -- and he didn't even perform. He was seated at the rear of the Ryman Auditorium Sunday night attending a concert by 1960s Motown stalwarts The read more...
Blackfoot is Our Latest "Legends of Southern Rock" Entry
"Highway Song" and "Train, Train," "Gimmie, Gimmie, Gimmie" and "Wishing Well"- all of these bring to mind the fierce, four man attack of Blackfoot - wildman Rick Medlocke out front, Charlie Hargrett on lead guitar, Greg T. Walker on bass and read more...
Chris Hicks to Host CD Release Party in Macon
The Cox Theater in Macon, Georgia is gonna rock on Wednesday, February 27 when The Chris Hicks Band and Special Guests will be performing in a CD release party, celebrating Hicks' new Sony release, Dog Eat Dog.
GRITZ Movie Reviews: Jumper, Spiderwick & Fool's Gold
JUMPER Hayden Christensen is quickly becoming a sci-fi staple, having rocketed to fame in the role of a lifetime as the young Darth Vader in read more...
"Howard the Duck" Creator Steve Gerber Dies
St. Louis native Steve Gerber, creator of the "Howard the Duck" comic book series, died Feb. 11 in Las Vegas while awaiting a lung transplant. He was 60. The wise-quacking, cigar-smoking duck first appeared in a "Man-Thing" comic in 1973. Gerber read more...
Preservation Hall's John Brunious Dead at 67
Trumpeter John Brunious, the Preservation Hall Jazz Band's leader and senior member, died Tuesday, February 12, 2008 in Orlando, Fla., after suffering an apparent heart attack. He was 67.
New CD's from Delaney, Bonnie and Whitlock
This may be the only time in history that the stars have lined up like this. Literally. If you check out the GRITZ CD reviews, you'll see that our three latest reviews have a common thread. The artists were all members of the legendary Delaney Bonnie read more...
The Love Box
I have a little ceramic box that sits on my dresser in the bed room. It’s red and has a multi-color lid with the word “Love” on top in very sixities-style lettering. It’s a cool box that Jill gave me for Valentine’s day some ten years ago.
Guilty Pleasures
A wise man once said, “Man does not live by Southern Rock alone.” Well, there have been times when I would argue that point, but the truth is, as much as I love my Southern Rock and Outlaw country music, I have a wide variety of interests, many of which may come as a read more...
My Top 15 Moments from the 50th Grammy Awards
I was pleasantly surprised by last night's Grammy Awards show. Celebrating 50 years of Grammy’s, they seemed to pull out all the stops to create a spectacle that would appeal to not only the You Tube generation, but also to us more “mature” viewers.
Artist of the Week: Paul Thorn
Let me just cut to the chase. I am a huge fan pf Mississippi singer songwriter Paul Thorn. I have seen him live onstage half a dozen times, both acoustic solo and read more...
A Night to Remember at The Bluebird in Nashville
It was a night to remember at Nashville's famed Bluebird Cafe on February 1st as Tim Krekel performed songs from his acclaimed new release, Soul Season, at the famed Bluebird Cafe in Nashville recently with noted songwriter / artists Bill Lloyd,
Video: Jimmy Johnson and Alan Walden from Lynyrd Skynyrd Documentary
I have been aware of the Lynyrd Skynyrd documentary being filmed by Rick Broyles and Tony Beazley for a few years now, and by all accounts it looks like it will be just the documentary we have all read more...
Weekend Notes and Tom Dowd On Ronnie Van Zant
I really hope everyone is enjoying the new look of GRITZ, as well as our “Mothership” Swampland.com. The powers that be have worked really hard for months on the redesign, and I for one am very pleased with the results. I hope you feel the same. We at read more...
John Rich to Release Big Solo Album
John Rich, who along with Big Kenny Alphin makes up genre-bending duo Big & Rich, will release a solo album later this year on Warner Bros. There's no read more...
Picture of the Day: Allen Collins with Rossington Collins Band
The late great Allen Collins. This photo from Kent Griffith shows Collins during the first ever concert by Rossington Collins Band.
Southern Rock and Country Superstars to Headline BamaJam
Enterprise, Alabama will host the first annual BamaJam Music & Arts Festival scheduled to take place, Thursday, Friday and Saturday, June 5 - 7, 2008 at Boy Scout Road and Highway #167. An all-encompassing community and creative arts experience, the 2-day/3-night extravaganza read more...
Delaney's Coming Soon to Swampland
I am very happy to report that GRITZ will soon present an all new interview with Southern music legend Delaney Bramlett. Delaney was one of the most important individuals in rock and roll during the sixties and seventies, working with everyone from
South Carolina Designates "Nappy Brown Day" February 15th
The State of South Carolina will honor Rhythm & Blues pioneer Nappy Brown with an official state proclamation declaring February 15, 2008 as "Nappy Brown Day" throughout the state. Nappy will visit Chapin High School in Chapin, SC to receive the proclamation and will read more...
Like a Rolling Stone
I simply could not believe my luck. I was at Barnes and Noble, drinking a cup of coffee and reading various periodicals and surfing the web via the WI-FI. When I was leaving, I strolled past the sale tables at the front of the store and happened to glance down to see read more...
Gritz Movie Reviews: The Eye, Rambo, Untraceable and More
THE EYE Jessica Alba stars as a girl who was accidentally blinded by her sister (Parker Posey) as a child. In her early twenties, she is given read more...
Cold Beer, Tom Petty & Superbowl Sunday
Greetings fellow babies. It's Superbowl Sunday and I am chilling on the sofa with a cold brewskie waiting to see New England and New York play, wishing it was my Panthers... I am really looking forward to Tom Petty performing at the halftime show. I was talking to James read more...
Florida's Latest Southern Rock Super Group
It's been a while since I was this excited over an indie release. Winter Park, Florida's Galloway & Kelliher have released one fine Southern Rock album, and we are extremely pleased to offer up our read more...
From The Archives: Our Interview with Lonnie Mack
It's time for another new post from our interviews archives. We are happy to present the interview I conducted back in 2000 with blues rock guitar legend Lonnie Mack. Stevie Ray Vaughan's old buddy opened up for us about his Flying V guitar, his career and future read more...
Picture of the Day: Gary & Dale On Simple Man Cruise
Gary Rossington and his wife Dale Krantz Rossington take a break during January's Simple Man Cruise that brought fans up close and personal with Lynyrd Skynyrd, as well as Marshall Tucker, Cowboy Mouth and others.
John Rich Hosts "Gone Country" On CMT
Nashville star John Rich (Big & Rich) hosts Gone Country, a new show on CMT that brings musicians from the world of rock and r&b to Nashville to have a go at becoming country performers. The show is quite a lot of fun. Read a Blog about the show by
Allen Collins Band Singer Jimmy Dougherty Has Died
Jimmy Dougherty Sr., 56, passed away on January 20, 2008. He was the singer/song writer of the Allen Collins Band and Alias. He is survived by his read more...
Skynyrd and Hank Return with Rowdy Frynds Tour 2008
(Nashville, TN)- Fans will have the opportunity to enjoy some of the best music imaginable when Rock & Roll Hall of Fame members, Lynyrd Skynyrd join country music icon, Hank Williams, Jr. for another round of their Rowdy Frynds Tour hitting cities nationwide beginning April read more...
Toy Caldwell Article Added to Swampland Archives
I was going through my files today and ran across an article I wrote back in 1999 about Toy Caldwell. Parts of the article were published in Hittin The Note magazine as well as in read more...
Video is Uniquely George McCorkle
On January 29th it will be seven months. Seven months since we lost one of Southern Rock's true greats. A man I was lucky enough to call my friend. A man I was lucky enough to share stages with and read more...
A True Jewel of Country Music
I have been a Jewel fan since her first video. I love her voice, her songwriting and her cuteness. That is why I was thrilled to get word from her people today that Jewel's next album will be a country record.
Dick Cooper Is Our First "Guest Blogger"
I am happy as a clam to present the first in our series of "Guest Blogs." This one concerns the legendary Delbert McClinton and Shoals drummer Bebop Evans. The piece was written by Dick Cooper, a man who has been there, done that in the music industry, From working with read more...
Charlie is in The Opry, and the Ryman was Rockin' !!
It’s 9:45 PM on Saturday night January 19th, 2008. I just dropped an e-mail to our friend Charlie Daniels telling him how proud I was watching him on
Garfeel Ruff Guitarist Ready to Return to Southern Rock Roots
I was talking to my old friend Ricky Godfrey on the telephone yesterday. Rick is living in Nashville, but he still returns home to Greenville, SC very often to play gigs. Rick was telling me that after many years as a succesful beach music guitarist and singer, he is read more...
GRITZ Movie Reviews: Cloverfield, The Bucket List and Atonement
CLOVERFIELD Remember the buzz when The Blair Witch Project first came out? There was a reason for it. A scary idea, shot in a read more...
Picture of the Day: Rossington Jam
Today's photo was taken in 1987 during the Lynyrd Skynyrd Tribute Tour. The Rossington Band was opening. On this night, Steve Morse of The Dixie Dreggs caught a jam with Gary Rossington and
The Outlaws are Our Latest Legends
We are happy to poresent the latest in our Legends of Southern Rock series, The Outlaws. The Outlaws are one of the South's all time best loved bands, delivering a rock and roll sound via the "Florida Guitar Army" unlike any other. Check out the article by
1981: Marshall Tucker Conquers New York, Video Blog
In 1981 The Marshall Tucker Band played Madison Square Garden in New York City. While they were in the Big Apple, they appeared on several radio and TV shows promoting the album Dedicated, a read more...
My Favorite Southern Rock Song?
I was talking to one of my pals down Florida way the other day when the conversation shifted to great Southern Rock songs.We started reliving the first time we heard this song or that song, and how much particular songs meant to us.
Charlie Daniels Grand Ole Opry Induction Airs Friday
On Friday, January 19th, the Opry Live broadcast on GAC will feature the induction of it's newest member, the legendary Charlie Daniels. Charlie and his band along with
Dickey Betts Will Tour With Kid Rock in February
According to his website, Dickey Betts will be joining Kid Rock on tour this February and March. In addition to performing Dickey's own hits, Dickey will be joining Kid Rock and his band on stage to perform.
Second Annual Big House Benefit Coming January 19th
The Second Annual Big House Museum Benefit will be held in Macon, Georgia on January 19th, 2008. Perfomers will include Tommy Talton, Jimmy Hall,
How I Gave Up on Going to the Moon and Became a Writer Instead
Oddly enough, I would have never even dreamed of becoming a writer during my days in grade school and high school. I really wanted to work for NASA, or be a rock star, or both. But I did create my own music magazines and comic books as far back as tenth grade. My first real thoughts read more...
Doc Holliday Rocked The Holidays in Georgia
A reader reports that Doc Holliday Band played a great show at Yesterdaze a club in Warner Robbins on December 22, 2007. Apparently
Cowboy in The Studio : A Photo Feature
Scott Boyer and Tommy Talton are back in Duck Tape Studio in Decatur, Alabama this weekend for "phase 2" in the recording of their new Cowboy reunion album. This session includes members of the band that joined after the third album. Previously, Boyer and read more...
GRITZ Movie Reviews: Pregnant Teens, Aliens and Rock Star Parodies
JUNO What a great film to see as my first movie of 2008. This one had me laughing from start to finish, with a great script, great read more...
Cowboy in Studio Again This Weekend
Cowboy is back in the studio at Duck Tape Studios with Johnny Sandlin this weekend, recording more material for their upcoming new album. In the studio for round two are
Happy New Year : Farewell to 2007
Happy New Year to all of our readers, and once again, allow me to thank you from the bottom of my heart for your continued support of GRITZ and our mother ship, SWAMPLAND.COM.
GRITZ Movie Reviews: National Treasure; I Am Legend; No Country for Old Men
NATIONAL TREASURE: BOOK OF SECRETS Nick Cage returns in the sequel to National Treasure. This time, in order to clear read more...
GRITZ Best Albums of The Year
Lots of great music rocked my world in 2007. Here are my choices for the 15 best of the best. Feel free to log on and comment. Let me know if you agree or disagree. read more...
Outlaws to Tour in 2008; Picture of the Day, Classic Outlaws
The Outlaws, who had just finished recording a new album when founding member Hughie Thomasson passed away, have announced that they will tour early in 2008. The lineup will include original members Henry Paul and Monte Yoho. Dates for the tour are expected to be posted soon at
Merry Christmas from GRITZ
Greetings from South Carolina... Since I have received so many e-mails and calls, I thought I would post this. I know many of you have already gotten word that I have been suffering some serious health problems which sent me into the hospital over Thanksgiving read more...
Growing Up in Spartanburg with The Marshall Tucker Band
My association with The Marshall Tucker Band has been in the words of Robert Hunter, “a long, strange trip.” It has also been a trip I wouldn’t have missed for the read more...
Picture of the Day: Grinderswitch
A classic photo of Capricorn Records recording artists, Grinderswitch, Dedicated to the memories of Dru Lombar, Joe Dan Petty and Stephen Miller.
Charlie Daniels Grand Ole Opry Induction Set for January 19th
Charlie Daniels will be inducted as the newest member of the Grand Ole Opry on January 19, 2008 at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville. Daniels was surprised with the invitation from Opry member Martina McBride during his annual Christmas For Kids benefit show in November. read more...
Mama Hill of H&H in Macon Passes Away at 94
Mama Inez Hill, the co-owner of Macon's H&H Restaurant has passed away at 94. Inez Hill, 94, died early this morning (Tuesday, December 18th) of natural causes at The Medical Center of Central Georgia. Hill, and her sister "Mama Louise" read more...
Buffalo's Best Films of 2007
Well, 2007 wasn’t the best year ever for movies, but we did hit on a few real winners. It seemed the theme of the year was war, with an unusual amount of war films, but we still got a dose here and there of comedy and a small handful of Oscar caliber performances, like Tommy read more...
Brothers of the Southland Advance CD Download Available Now
The Brothers of the Southland with Bo Bice CD is now available for a limited time as an advance download of the CD. The Download is available exclusively thru www.SouthernAlliance.org
Jimmy Hall Launches New Web Site, Features Exclusive Video and Audio
Jimmy Hall's website has been given a face lift, this according to Mike read more...
Rockin' Camel Music Gets Website Makeover
Rockin' Camel Music, based in Gadsden, Alabama, has been creating quite a buzz over the past couple of years. They have been compared to the old Capricorn Records as a Southern specialty label, and read more...
Video: "Painting Her Toenails," Michael Buffalo Smith
One of my songs that seems to be going over well these days is called "Painting Her Toenails." It's just a simple tune inspired by seeing my wife doing her nails one night. The following performance features my pal Donnie Winters from The Winters Brothers Band. We played read more...
GRITZ Movie Reviews: Awake, The Mist, Hitman, Beowulf
AWAKE I had this dream. In it, a young Darth Vader was sleeping around with Sue Storm from The Fantastic read more...
Picture of the Day: Jammin' with Charlie Daniels at Angelus
The jam following the banquet at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel last Friday night during the annual Angelus Benefit found our own Buffalo singing along with Charlie Daniels, Tommy Crain and the Crosstown Allstars and cartoonist Guy Gilchrist! Only at Angelus! (Photos © by read more...
Picture of the Day: Guy and Towson at Charliepalooza!
Picture of the day. Cartoonist Guy Gilchrist ("Nancy," "The Muppetts") and drummer Towson Engsberg (Tommy Crain and The Crosstown Allstars) enjoy the music of Charliepalooza from the side of the stage. (Photo by Michael Buffalo Smith) Read all about last read more...
Billy Bob Thornton Christmas Song Exclusive On iTunes
Billy Bob Thornton's band (his hillbilly band) The Boxmasters have a special Christmas
Like Father, Like Son: John Carter Cash Speaks with GRITZ
John Carter Cash, son of famed country music couple Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash, took some time out of his extremely busy schedule to speak with us about the new Johnny Cast TV Show DVD set, the Cash Cabin Recording Studio and of course, his legendary parents. For me, read more...
Dixie Chicks Want Convictions Overturned
The Dixie Chicks have a new controversy on their hands. Lead singer Natalie Maines is urging people to contribute money to a defense fund for three Arkansas men that she (and many others) believe were wrongly convicted of killing three children in 1993. Maines writes read more...
Artimus Pyle Arrested a Second Time On Same Charges
ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. — Former Lynyrd Skynyrd drummer Artimus Pyle has been arrested a second time after failing to properly register as a sex offender, sheriff's officials said.
Picture of the Day: Buffalo and T. Graham Brown
Gritz man Michael Buffalo Smith hangs out with country r&b legend T. Graham Brown at the Angelus event in Tampa, Florida.
The Angelus Benefit: Day Three, The Big Concert
SATURDAY Well today was the last big hurrah for this year’s Angelus event, the all day outdoor country concert at Ford Amphitheater. The weather couldn’t have been more beautiful, and the music never stopped all day, thanks to some well read more...
Angelus Day Two: The Music Continued Into The Night
FRIDAY We started off the day downstairs on the banquet room for breakfast, hanging out with friends and enjoying conversation. Then at 3 PM it was once again time for me the hit the stage of the Lobby Bar. Unfortunately, Tommy
Charlie Daniels Rocks The Angelus: Day One
It was a beautiful day for a drive to Florida, and my old buddy Scott Greene and I set sail for the annual Angelus weekend down in Tampa. It’s one of my favorite events and I always look forward to seeing old friends and making new ones, listening to some old school Southern read more...
Enter to Win, Marshall Tucker Band Live 1977 DVD!!
There's still time for you to win a copy of the new DVD/CD package The Carolina Dreams Tour by The Marshall Tucker Band! Just register, comment and win. Click here for the read more...
Picture of the Day: Boyer & Talton with Johnny Sandlin
Taking a break outside Duck Tape Studios during the recording of the new Cowboy album, Scott Boyer, Johnny Sandlin and Tommy Talton. (Buffalo photo)
Another Side of Tommy Talton
Tommy Talton is no doubt best known for his work with the 1970's Capricorn Records recording group
John Hammond "Southern Fried;" Old & Heavy Gold
Southern Fried John Hammond This true “lost treasure” is now available on CD at Amazon and for download at iTunes. Recorded at Muscle Shoals Sound Studios back in 1969, blues rocker
Ex-Lynyrd Skynyrd Drummer Artimus Pyle Jailed
Artimus Pyle, a former drummer for Lynyrd Skynyrd, has been jailed in Florida on charges that he failed to properly register as a sex offender. Pyle had pleaded guilty in 1993 to charges of attempted capital sexual battery by an adult on a victim younger than read more...
Win Marshall Tucker's New Live in 1977 DVD/CD FREE!
The Marshall Tucker Band was at their peak in the summer of 1977, and now you can relive the magic of the original lineup of Toy and Tommy Caldwell, George McCorkle, Paul Riddle, Doug Gray and Jerry Eubanks on a fabulous live DVD that comes complete with a 2-CD set of the same read more...
The Cowboy Diaries: Part One
by Michael Buffalo Smith GRITZ went into the studio with Cowboy for the recording of their all new album, their first in 36 years. In part one of our journal, we meet all of the original members of Cowboy, and hear music that is sure to turn the Southern music world on it's read more...
Charlie Daniels to Join the Grand Ole Opry
Our friend Charlie Daniels has been asked to become a member of the legendary Grand Ole Opry. GRITZ correspondent Rick Broyles was in attendence last night, November 20, during Daniels’ read more...
Picture of the Day: Cowboy Reunion
The entire original lineup of Cowboy reunite in Decatur, Alabama to record an all-new album. Look for the complete story here in GRITZ on Tuesday. Pictured read more...
In The Studio for the Cowboy Reunion Album
Well, here I am in Decatur, Alabama, a stone's throw away from Muscle Shoals. I only have a minute to report that recording on the new Cowboy reunion album is going great. The new songs are top drawer, and it has been very cool meeting the guys who recorded such classic Capricorn read more...
Picture Of The Day: Jam 4 George
Cooking onstage during the recent Jam 4 George Memorial Concert are George's son Justin McCorkle, founding Marshall Tucker Band member Jerry Eubanks, current MTB bassist Pat Ellwood and Mark Emerick from The Commander Cody Band. (Photo by Mandy Merck)
GRITZ Movie Reviews: Lions for Lambs, American Gangster, Martian Child and P2
Lions for Lambs Robert Redford directs and stars in this movie about the war in Iraq seen from various angles, including his read more...
New Marshall Tucker Band 1977 DVD is On The Way
A three-CD set of the Marshall Tucker Band collection entitled Carolina Dreams Tour '77 that features the group's original lineup in concert is due out December 4th on the Shout! Factory read more...
Back to The High Lonesome with Tom Hambridge & The Rattlesnakes
I made my way down to Rome, Georgia for my third ever visit to the High Lonesome Saloon, a place that is quickly becoming one of my favorite places to play. I had been fortunate enough to attend a rehearsal by
Former Allman Brothers Band Employee Scooter Herring Has Died
MACON, GA - John C. "Scooter" Herring, 67, of Macon, died Saturday, November 10, 2007. Memorial services will be held Wednesday, November 14, 2007 at 2:00PM at Harvest Cathedral, 2254 Rocky Creek Road, with Larry Howard officiating. The family may be contacted at read more...
Cowboy Take Me Away: The Scott Boyer Interview
GRITZ is happy to present an exclusive interview with one of the South's finest musicians and human beings, Scott Boyer. From his early bands in Florida with members of The Allman Brothers Band, to his highly successful Capricorn Records band with Tommy Talton, Cowboy, Scott gives read more...
Picture of the Day: Jimmie Van Zant at CMA Awards
Jimmie Van Zant and his wfe Zohra at CMAs talking about his new upcoming CD My Name is Jimmie.
Still More Scenes from The Jam 4 George!!
If a picture is truly worth a thousand words, how much are a thousand pictures worth? Due to popular demand, we happily present "Still More Scenes from The Jam 4 George." All Photos by Mandy Merck, City of Spartanburg gal and J4G Planning Committee read more...
More Scenes from The Jam 4 George!
The photographs just keep coming into the GRITZ offices! Here are some more great scenes from The Jam 4 George. Photos contributed by Mark Coburn, Rebyll, Ms. Rebyll and Buffalo.
Jam 4 George Brings Out The Best of Southern Rockers and Fans
Wofford College weren’t the only ones having a homecoming in Spartanburg, SC last Saturday, November 3. Barnett Park downtown was ground zero for one of the finest gatherings of Southern Rock fans and musicians this writer has witnessed in quite some time. Everyone was there read more...
Picture of the Day: Jam 4 George
Buffalo is seen here with founding Marshall Tucker Band member, flute and sax player Jerry Eubanks, moments before the finale jam at The Jam for George McCorkle on Saturday, November 3, 2007. A complete review with loads of photos will be posted here by late Tuesday read more...
Warren Haynes Xmas Jam to Feature Jackson Browne, Bruce Hornsby
Warren Haynes Presents: The 19th Annual Christmas Jam will take place this year on Saturday, December 15, 2007 at the Asheville Civic Center in Asheville, NC. A list of performers for this year has just been announced, with moe to be added. Gov't Mule Jackson Browne read more...
Porter Wagoner Dead at 80
Porter Wagoner died Sunday in Nashville. He was 80 and lived in Nashville. He had been hospitalized with lung cancer earlier this month. Mr. Wagoner had 81 singles on the country charts, including read more...
Halloween Movie Reviews from GRITZ
Film Reviews by Michael Buffalo Smith SAW IV You really can’t keep a bad man down. At the opening of the film, read more...
Tommy Talton Band Takes it to the Melting Point
Both The New York Times and Rolling Stone Magazine recently named Athens, Georgia as the number one music scene in read more...
Athens Rocks Tonight (Georgia, Not Greece)
Well, here I am back in Athens, Georgia at The Foundry Inn and Spa, a really cool and historical hotel that also features one of the nicest listening rooms I have seen lately, The Melting Point. Jill and I made the trip down from Greenville his morning under sunny skies, all read more...
One of My Heroes, Porter Wagoner Has Lung Cancer
October 24, 2007 I was really taken aback to hear Country Music Hall of Famer Porter Wagoner has been diagnosed with lung cancer. To me, Porter is one of the last of the true country music superstars. He hangs right in the same category as Merle Haggard, read more...
Photo of the Day: Marc Ford and Swampland's Own James Calemine
Photo of the day features famed guitarist Marc Ford (left) and our own James Calemine (right). Be sure to read about James' latest adventures with the former Black Crowe in the Mystery & Manner read more...
Win Free Tickets To Jam 4 George
Here's your chance to win a pair of tickets to the Jam for George memorial concert in Spartanburg, SC. We have a few pairs of tickets to give away. All you have to do is comment below and tell us why you want to be at the big event or your memories of George read more...
It Was 30 Years Ago Today: Last Flight of The Free Bird
I only saw Lynyrd Skynyrd, the original Lynyrd Skynyrd, in concert one time. It was October 19, 1977, and sadly, it was to be the very last concert for Ronnie Van Zant. I was backstage the read more...
George McCorkle To Be Honored by Memorial Concert November 3rd
Spartanburg, SC - George McCorkle, an original member of The Marshall Tucker Band, will be memorialized read more...
Online Radio Station Tribute to Lynyrd Skynyrd October 20th
Next Saturday, October 20th at 4pm EST tune into
Rockin' On The Top of The Mountain
Our primary goal of the trip, besides handing out the videos, was to shoot the camel on top of the mountain. Carl Weaver’s pet camel, Akbar, that is. Carl wanted Dave Peck to shoot video of the camel for a new logo he is working on. Since we read more...
Dick, a Duck and a Decoy : Part One
Shootin’ The Camel on the Top of the Mountain Part One The primary goal for the weekend was to shoot the camel on the top of the mountain. Well, that, and to hand deliver finished read more...
Billy Bob Thornton Debuts at #33 On Americana Charts
“BEAUTIFUL DOOR” AMONG THE HIGHEST ALBUM DEBUTS THIS WEEK (October 9, 2007) “Each track is like mini story…. While the singing is simple, the well-written lyrics will inevitably draw read more...
James Calemine Hangs Out with Marc Ford
I'd like to take a minute to make sure that all "friends of GRITZ" drop by all of the other sections of SWAMPLAND for some very cool reading. Case in point, brother James Calemine, a long time writer for GRITZ as well read more...
A Pearl in the Heart of South Carolina
Down the road from me in Bishopville, South Carolina, there lives a man named Pearl. Pearl Fryar, a sixty-six year old African American who literally defines the term “self made man.”
Skynyrd Tribute Weekend October 19-20
A "Skynyrd Tribute Weekend" will be held Oct. 19 and 20 at Sharky's Place in the Quality Inn & Conference Center, 300 Park Ave., Orange Park, Florida. The tribute will kick off at 6 p.m. both Friday and Saturday read more...
Warren Haynes Christmas Jam Returns in December
News just in from mule.net. Warren Haynes Presents: The 19th Annual Christmas Jam will take place on December 15, 2007 at The Asheville Civic Center. More information, including Pre-Sale and Public On-Sale will be announced read more...
Widespread Panic Fall Tour Underway with New Member Jimmy Herring
Jimmy Herring may be the king of all "hired guns" in Southern rock. He jumped in and filled the Dickey Betts vacancy in
Check Out a Dickey Betts, Bonnie Bramlett, Charlie Daniels Jam from 1970's
Well, I've said it before and I'll say it again - YouTube rocks. Whoever came up with that idea is a genius, and I feel very lucky to be able to share some of the very best Southern Rock from YouTube right here at GRITZ. When I was in my late teens, I was quite the read more...
Picture of the Day: An Allman Brothers Band Flashback
This GRITZ file photo was taken during the time when Jack Pearson was playing in The Allman Brothers Band. (1997-1999) The lineup soon changed, but there are some magnificent board tapes out there with read more...
Buffalo's Book Club: "Dixie Lullaby"
Welcome to the first installment of Buffalo's Book Club. I figured, if Oprah can have one, so can I. The only thing is, I don't believe "O" and I will be recommending the same books. But then again, who knows? Our first book is called Dixie read more...
GRITZ Movie Reviews: The Kingdom, Elah and Game Plan
THE KINGDOM Jamie Foxx, Chris Cooper, Jennifer Garner and Jason Bateman star as four FBI agents who take it upon read more...
Afternoon Tea with Billy Bob and Me
Well, we didn't actually sit down together this time, but I was drinking tea and speaking with my buddy Billy Bob Thornton on the phone this afternoon. It was our eagerly awaited second interview with the Southern icon, and I was ready to talk about music and read more...
GRITZ Movie Reviews: Sydney White, Eastern Promises, Good Luck Chuck
Sydney White Amanda Bynes, the cutest young actress I’ve seen in years, stars as Sydney White, a girl who has been raised by a read more...
An Urgent Message from John McEuen about George Grantham
We here at Swampland want to let everyone know about a message that John McEuen is trying to get out to the public at large regarding Oklahoma native and Poco drummer George read more...
Jam for George McCorkle Shaping Up to Be a Must See Event
The Jam for George Concert is scheduled for Saturday, November 3, 2007 beginning at 1 PM at Barnett Park in downtown Spartanburg, SC. I attended another meeting of the planning group last night, and the show is shaping up to be the must see event of the year. The musical read more...
Picture of the Day: Otis Redding Family
Here's a great shot of Otis Redding's family: Zelma Redding, Rodgers Redding, Karla Redding Andrews, Dexter Redding, and other family members in a photo taken at The Douglass Theatre Walk of Fame dedication during the recent Otis Redding Tribute ceremonies in read more...
Southern Rock News: Get Your GRITZ Via RSS Feed
I am really happy to announce that GRITZ is now available in Really Simple Syndication. (RSS) That is, you can get updates and links to my latest blogs right on your Google, Bloglines or Yahoo home page. Just click on the RSS icon located above my latest blog on the front page of read more...
Picture of the Day: Devon Allman at 550 Blues
Devon Allman and Honeytribe rocked the walls of 550 Blues in Macon, Georgia on Saturday, September 22nd. (Photo by John Charles Griffin)
New Issue of Hittin' The Note is Packed with Good Reading
I have been a subscriber to Hittin’ The Note magazine for several years, and at one point I even went back and purchased the past issues all the way back to #1. As a fan of
Chris Hicks and Friends Rocked The Hummingbird, Acoustic Style
On a whim I set sail for Macon, Georgia last Tuesday to catch an acoustic performance by Chris Hicks of The Marshall Tucker read more...
Hughie Thomasson, Green Grass and High Tides Forever
Well, it took me a little longer than expected to gather the quotes from a few of Hughie's friends for our Hughie Thomasson Memorial page, but hey, most of these guys were tight friends with Hughie, so read more...
"Sweet Home Alabama" To Become Alabama's Tourism Theme
Well, the news is out. Lynyrd Skynyrd's second biggest hit, "Sweet Home Alabama" will become the theme song for the Alabama Department of read more...
Stuart Collins, Road Manager for Randall Bramblett Dies
Athens - We are sad to announce the death of Jeffrey Stuart Collins, 46, who died on September 15, 2007 from an apparent heart attack. Stuart was the road manager of the Randall Bramblett Band of Athens. Survivors in addition to his mother include his read more...
Watch Streaming Video of The Allmans On Farm Aid Until September 20th
You can watch the entire Farm Aid concert on streaming video at farmaid.org, now through September 20th. Watch by set, including The Allman Brothers, Willie Nelson, Warren Haynes, Derek Trucks, Montgomery Gentry, Billy Joe Shaver read more...
Tom Coerver Has Been There, Done That, Got The Hatchet T-Shirt
Louisiana's Tom Coerver has been in our corner since the beginning of GRITZ. A great musician and a staunch supporter, he is also a good friend. For the life of me, I can't even begin to think why it has taken me until now to interview him. But hey, it's all about timing, read more...
GRITZ Movie Reviews: Billy Bob is Back, Jodie Foster Shines
MR. WOODCOCK Billy Bob Thornton is back, in what he himself told me was “Bad Santa without the alcohol.” That’s a pretty apt read more...
Hughie Thomasson Memorial Coming Monday, Watch a Video Now
Hi Gang. We are all still trying to cope with loss of yet another friend and Southern rock icon, Hughie Thomasson. I have been on the phone and e-mail for a couple of days with friends like
Long Time CDB Road Crewman Jackie Williams Dies
Jackie Williams passed away on September 8, 2007 at the age of 50, following a single car accident in Nashville. Jackie was Lighting Designer/Production Manager for The Charlie Daniels read more...
GRITZ Movie Reviews: Yuma a Winner, Shoot 'em Up and Death Sentence Violent/Escapist
3:10 TO YUMA I can’t even remember how long it has been since I have seen a real honest to God western movie. read more...
Steve Gaines' Birthday Today: The Late Ace Mooreland Talks About Steve (Video)
Lynyrd Skynyrd guitarist Steve Gaines has been gone from us for 30 years now, this October. Today, September 14, is would have been Steve's 58th birthday. Another late great guitarist, read more...
Picture of the Day: The Winters Brothers
Dennis and Donnie Winters of The Winters Brothers backstage in Macon recently. Check out the archived interview I did with Dennis. The Winters Brothers will appear at the Jam for George read more...
Danny Brooks is Alabamy Bound
I'll never forget the first time I heard the music of Danny Brooks. It was a few years ago, and my friend and staff member Mitch Lopate told me all about this good ol' Southern boy who just happened to be from Canada named Danny Brooks. I spoke with Danny a few times on the phone, read more...
J4G: The Jam for George (McCorkle) Set for November 3rd
SPARTANBURG, SC - The highly anticipated Jam for George: A Concert Honoring The Memory of George McCorkle, will take place in beautiful Barnett Park in George's hometown of Spartanburg, SC on Saturday, November 3, 2007, beginning at 1 PM. The list of performers is being read more...
Picture of the Day: Hughie Thomasson and Henry Paul Getting Their GRITZ
Here's a shot of Hughie and Henry just after the Outlaws reunion, holding up their print copies of GRITZ Magazine. The photo was taken by staff member Krazy Kenny Mullins. Hughie (like Henry) was a staunch supporter of GRITZ. we will miss him. Godspeed read more...
Hughie Thomasson Has Died
Hughie Thomasson, founding member of The Outlaws, died at his home in Brooksville, Florida on Sunday, September 9, 2007 following a heart attack. He was 55 years old. We last saw Hughie rocking read more...
The Allman Brothers Band return to their old stomping ground in Piedmont Park in Atlanta tonight (September 8), joining The Dave Matthews Band for The Green Concert for Piedmont Park.The event will help read more...
Picture of the Day: George McCorkle and Doug Gray
Our friend, the late great George McCorkle was reunited with singer Doug Gray of The Marshall Tucker Band just months before George's passing. George wrote several of the songs on the new MTB record. Plans are being made right now for a George McCorkle Memorial Concert in late read more...
Charlie Louvin Continues Touring into Fall with Lucinda
Charlie Louvin of the Louvin Brothers has just read more...
GRITZ Movie Reviews: Halloween Chills, War Rages
HALLOWEEN Rock and roller Rob Zombie has turned into quite a film director, and his take on the 1970’s Halloween read more...
Picture of The Day: Billy Bob and Mike, Tour Wrapping Up
Billy Bob Thornton and his long time buddy and guitarist Mike Shipp photographed by your's truly backstage at the House of Blues in Myrtle Beach. All good things must come to an end, and the Billy Bob and The Boxmasters tour winds down on September 7th. GRITZ is very proud read more...
Happy Labor Day Weekend
Labor Day weekend. I'm very thankful I'm not flying, judging from news reports on our over crowded airports and skies, I am, however, heading to the beach for a few days of much needed R&R. Just for fun, I am listing a few CDs that I will be playing while I chill out at read more...
Picture of the Day: Dickey Betts
Southern Rock legend Dickey Betts is seen here circa 1995 onstage with The Allman Brothers Band. Be sure to check out our Allman Brothers Legends article, with links to all Dickey related read more...
Picture of the Day: Blackfoot Strikes Again
This is a photo sent in by a GRITZ reader that features Greg T. Walker, Charlie Hargrett and Bobby Barth of Blackfoot rocking the stage earlier in 2007. Thanks for sending the picture! Buffalo
Picture of the Day: Carter Runs for President
Today's photo was taken back when Georgia's Jimmy Carter was running for President of the United States. He is shown here with Capricorn Records founder
GRITZ Movie Reviews: Hairspray, Superbad, Nanny Diaries
HAIRSPRAY What can you say about a movie that is turned into a highly successful Broadway show, and then back into a movie read more...
New "Legends" Feature: The Allman Brothers Band
Dear Y'all, Swampland and Gritz are proud to present the latest in our series of Legends of Southern Rock. The one, the only Allman Brothers Band. I hope you'll check out the feature article and click on all of the links to re-visit our classic ABB related interviews and read more...
Former Marshall Tucker Band Drummer Suffers Heart Attack
SPARTANBURG, SC - Former Marshall Tucker Band drummer David "Ace" Allen was admitted to the hospital yesterday following a heart attack. He is scheduled for a quadruple bipass surgery on the morning of Wednesday, August 22. Stay tuned to GRITZ for updates on Ace's read more...
GRITZ Movie Reviews, "Invasion" Bores, "Stardust" Rules
INVASION Hollywood is really pushing the boundaries of how many times a good movie idea can be recycled. First there was the 1956 read more...
Billy Bobbin' in Myrtle Beach
Thursday morning I got up early and made my way to the beach. I was bound and determined to get in a beach walk, so at 8 am I was virtually alone on the sand, walking in the surf and feeling the cool breeze blow through my hair. I found myself walking with my eyes closed. It read more...
It Was Thirty Years Ago Today
I can remember exactly where I was when I heard that Elvis was dead. I was in my Barracuda, turning left into the Westgate Mall in Spartanburg, SC. I used to go to that mall a lot, haunting the record and book stores. The guy on WORD-AM sounded genuinely broken up as read more...
I have been having a lot of trouble with Mapquest lately. Used to be, I could depend on those wonderful internet cats to guide me safely to and from my destination, whether it be Live Oak, Florida or Dothan, Alabama. But a few months back, I was completely misguided while on read more...
GRITZ Loves YOUTUBE
I have become a certified YOUTUBE addict. Especially since our friends at Peckster Vision have started posting some of the footage from their archives. There are some great videos up, like Gregg Allman with the Capricorn Rhythm Section at the recent Scott Boyer Benefit read more...
Allman Brothers to Play Farm Aid 2007
It looks as though Willie Nelson is planning to bring some serious Southern music along for Farm Aid's first ever New York event. Among the acts slated to appear at the September 9th event at Randall’s Island in New York City are: The Allman Brothers Band, The Derek Trucks read more...
Gritz Movie Reviews: The Bourne Ultimatum, More...
The Bourne Ultimatum Matt Damon returns for the final chapter in the Bourne trilogy, reprising his role as Jason Bourne, the read more...
Lynyrd Skynyrd To Be Inducted Into Georgia Music Hall of Fame
It was announced today that The Georgia Music Hall of Fame will induct Lynyrd Skynyrd into the Hall this September. The Southern rock legends are being inducted on the heels of last year's induction into The Rock and Roll Hall of read more...
Benefit for a Brother Brings Out the Stars in Macon
I returned to Macon, Georgia again this week for the Benefit for Sid Yochim (aka: Benefit for a Brother) on Saturday night (August 4th) at The Grand Opera House in Macon, Georgia. Sid was a long time bus driver for both The Allman Brothers Band and
All Star Southern Rock Benefit in Macon This Weekend
A Benefit for a Brother, Sid Yochim, will take place in Macon, Georgia this Saturday, August 4th. Tickets are on sale now. Many of you know Sid Yochim, a member of the Charlie Daniels Band family for many years driving the trucks and buses. Sid’s father read more...
Kid Rock's New Album Fueled By Southern Rock
Kid Rock has announced an October 9th release date for his upcoming album, the long awaited follow-up to 2003's Kid Rock. Rock 'n' Roll Jesus will be Kid's seventh studio set and his fourth on Atlantic Records and featuring an overall Southern rock feel.
Metal Band Covers Southern Rock Tune
Hair-metal band Poison has released a full album of cover tunes, including songs made famous by The Rolling Stones, David Bowie, KISS, Tom Petty, Grand Funk, Jim Croce, Alice Cooper, and The Sweet, all produced by famed producer, Don Was. The album is entitled read more...
Back to Macon with The Tommy Talton Band
I’ve been down to Macon, Georgia several times over the past few months, and every time I visit I feel the spirit of Duane Allman wash over me like a spiritual cleansing. This time, I felt it stronger than ever as I watched from the front row while Tommy Talton played his read more...
Thursday Night with Paul Thorn and Something Heavy
I knew going in that it was going to be a busy, busy weekend. What I also knew was that it would be one of the most music filled, wonderful weekends I’d experienced in quite some time. I was right all the way around. On Thursday evening I made my way over to The read more...
Uncle John Turner Dies:Legendary Drummer Played with Johnny Winter
Uncle John, Johnny Winter and Tommy Shannon
Upcoming Shows, Vintage Interviews Posted
It's been a busy few weeks around here for the ol' Gritzman, and things are just getting busier. I like it that way. Next week I will be returning to Macon, Georgia to report on The Tommy Talton read more...
GRITZ Movie Review: Captivity
I guess it’s true what they say. If a new, fresh idea comes along and hits big, you can expect to see a dozen clones in the next couple of years. With read more...
Tommy Talton is a True Southern Treasure
One of my all time favorite songs during the seventies was "Please Be With Me" by Cowboy, a song I first heard on the Duane Allman Anthology album, which led me to a lifetime love of the music of Cowboy. So it was with great excitement and anticipation that I read more...
In The Studio: New Southern Rock & Country Releases On The Way
TOMMY TALTON says that he and SCOTT BOYER have been writing new material for a COWBOY reunion album which will begin recording in September. Talton has also been in the studio recording for a new BONNIE BRAMLETT read more...
IBMA Coming in October
The International Bluegrass Music Association's (IBMA) annual World of Bluegrass takes place in Nashville, Tennessee October 1-7 at the Nashville Convention Center and the Grand Ole Opry House. The week includes the International Bluegrass Music Awards, a business conference and the read more...
King Mojo Signs Distribution Deal With Select-O-Hits
ATLANTA, GA – Atlanta-based independent label King Mojo Records has announced the signing of a national distribution deal with Select-O-Hits and the August 7 release of three CDs as part of the new arrangement: “TGZ, “Living read more...
Man Arrested for Impersonating Hag's Son
A Charlo, Montana man has been arrested for impersonating Merle Haggard's son, Noel Haggard, The Daily Inter Lake reports. A man police identified as Mark Sams, 48, was signing autographs and having pictures taken with him for a fee Saturday outside the Valley Club read more...
New Van Zant CD September 18th
On the heals of their gold CD Get Right With the Man and a Top 10 single, brothers Johnny and Donnie Van Zant are poised to release their sophomore disc My Kind of Country on September 18.
Big & Rich Have Top Song of The Week
Big & Rich and Brad Paisley enjoyed having the top country song and album on Billboard for the week ending July 21 with "Lost In This Moment" and " 5th Gear" respectively. On the song chart, Big & Rich notched their first career number one read more...
GRITZ Movie Reviews: Transformers and More
Funeral for a Friend
It was slightly overcast in Spartanburg, SC this morning and a bit cooler than it has been. Well, at least until about halfway through the graveside service, when hundreds of cardboard church fans came out and my sweat soaked black blazer was peeled off and tossed over my shoulder. read more...
McCorkle Memorial in Nashville, Funeral to Be Held in Spartanburg
A memorial service and visitation for George McCorkle will be held on Sunday July 1, 2007 from 4:00-8:00PM.at Carthage United Methodist Church (Church George Attended) 608 N. Main Street, Carthage, TN.This will be a service for George's Friends, read more...
George McCorkle Dead at 60
George McCorkle of the original Marshall Tucker Band died this morning, Friday, June 29th at 11:30 in a Nashville Hospital. He was 60. He had entered the hospital two weeks ago following an accident, and examination revealed terminal cancer. George was a founding read more...
Gritz Movie Reviews Return
Well, after a bunch of calls and e-mails asking for it, the Gritz Movie Reviews are back! Please check out our two latest reviews - 1408 and Fantastic Four: Rise Of The Silver Surfer in the Gritz Reviews section. Look for new reviews weekly! Special thanks read more...
Makin' it Back to Macon
The original plan was to go down to Macon a couple of days early and hang out with my friends Dave and Peggy Peck, prior to the Saturday benefit concert for Sid Yoakim. Halfway to Macon on Thursday I received a call informing me that the benefit show had been rescheduled for August. read more...
Guitarist McCorkle Remains Critical, Spartanburg Newspaper Features Article
Marshall Tucker Band guitarist George McCorkle remains in critical condition in a Nashville hospital with terminal cancer. An article read more...
George McCorkle Fighting Cancer
We have received some very sad news here at GRITZ. Our long time friend George McCorkle, a founding member of The Marshall Tucker Band, is in the hospital fighting cancer. We at GRITZ and SWAMPLAND are keeping George and his family in our thoughts and prayers. Below is read more...
Benefit for a Brother Rescheduled for August 4th
The benefit concert scheduled for June 23rd has been changed to August 4th. Tickets are on sale now. Many of you know Sid Yochim, a member of the Charlie Daniels read more...
Winters Brothers Summer Jam Was a Blast
It was a perfect weekend for a festival. Just ask anyone who attended Bonaroo, and if they can remember the weekend, they will agree. As for those of us who have been making the trek to Nashville yearly for many moons to attend The Winters Brothers Southern Summer read more...
GRITZ Continues to Grow, Tommy Talton Interview Next Week
Greetings! Well, GRITZ is now back, bigger and better, thanks to some hard work from the Swampland team. You may have notced that the old site address, www.gritz.net will now take you straight to the new GRITZ site within the Swampland domain. Check out the first of our new ads, read more...
Jimmy Hall to Sing Anthem in Rome, Marshall Tucker to Perform
Rome, GA - The Rome Braves announce today that Southern rock legend Jimmy Hall will perform the National Anthem at the 48th South Atlantic League All Star Game Tuesday June 19th. Hall, lead vocalist and harmonica player for Wet Willie, has a long and varied background read more...
Benefit for a Brother, Sid Yochim, Coming to Macon
Many of you know Sid Yochim, a member of the Charlie Daniels Band family for many years driving the trucks and buses. Sid’s father was the late great Pappy Yochim. Sid has had some very read more...
Winters Brothers Summer Jam This Weekend
NOLENSVILLE, TN - The Winters Brothers Band will host their 28th Southern Summer Jam this weekend on June 16th on the family farm just out side of Nolensville, TN. The event has become a favorite for read more...
Shaver to Release Spiritual Album
Buffalo Returns, Brings Along Some Ol' Honk
In case anyone is wondering, the ol' Buffalo has been down for the count for a while lately, which explains my lack of blogging. (Now there's a sentence I would have never used even two years ago, LOL) I had to have the old gallbladder removed, and it has been a bit of a read more...
Volunteer Jam DVD: The Holy Grail of Southern Rock
If there’s one single most defining event in the history of Southern Rock, it has to be the Volunteer Jam, especially the original Jams back in 1974 and 1975 and beyond. I’ll never forget my sheer joy upon discovering a bonus record inside the sleeve of
Warren Haynes, Steve Morse On Jeff Beck Tribute Album
Southern guitar gods Warren Haynes and Steve Morse will appear on a Jeff Beck tribute album for the Tone Center label, produced by guitarist Jeff Richman. Haynes is a member of
Welcome Back To GRITZ
Welcome back my friends to the show that never ends... I must begin by apologizing for the recent “down time” Swampland.com experienced, but it was a necessary thing. The site has now been updated and the powers that be tell us it is going to be read more...
More On the Untimely Death of Topper Price
Terry O'Neil "Topper" Price, one of the most recognizable figures on Birmingham's music scene, died Wednesday at his Southside apartment.
Southern Musician Topper Price Dead
Topper Price, a well loved and respected singer and harp player from Alabama, was found dead today. No details are available as of yet, but we will report them as soon as possible. Price was recently seen onstage in support of his life long friend Scott Boyer at both Boyer read more...
Skynyrd, Hank Jr. Looking for a Rowdy Friend
Lynyrd Skynyrd and Hank Williams Jr. are currently touring together on the Rowdy Frynds tour, so it’s only natural, I guess, that they’d be hunting for their No. 1 friend, and they’re trying to find him or her read more...
Joann and the Free Bird
It has been quite a week here in the land of Gritz and honey. We lost another friend to cancer. I never met Joann Pierce face to face, but I read more...
Volunteer Jam Blazes Through Greenville
The Volunteer Jam Tour of 2007 kicked off in style on Friday night with The Charlie Daniels Band, The Marshall Tucker Band and The read more...
Lonestar 92 is Something Truly Fresh On The Radio
There is finally something fresh and new on the radio dial, and the real surprise is that it is a part of the mega-million corporate monopoly Clear Channel, the monolith responsible for the dumbing down of commercial radio in the first place. I never thought I'd say this but, read more...
Great Days Indeed: Chris Hicks, The Boyer Benefits and a Shot of Whiskey
What a great three weeks it has been. First, there was the first Scott Boyer Benefit down in Muscle Shoals. Then the next week, it was on the road to
Dolly Parton, Buck Owens, Waylon Jennings, Harlan Howard Honored by Academy of Country Music
The Academy of Country Music has announced that country music movers and shakers Harlan Howard, Waylon Jennings, Jack Lameier, Buck Owens, Dolly Parton and Don Williams will be honored at a special ceremony on Wednesday, June 20 in Nashville. Howard, Jennings, read more...
Friends Come Out For Boyer in Birmingham: Gregg Allman Headlines
The second of two benefit concerts for ailing Southern Rock icon Scott Boyer was held on Wednesday, April 18th in Birmingham, Alabama, and was a rousing success.
Tipping My Hat To Kirk West
What a day. It was a beautiful day for a drive from my home in Greenville, SC to the big city of Birmingham, Alabama. About five and a half hours on the road brought me to the Best Western Hotel in Leeds near Birmingham, where I would later meet with some of the performers in town for read more...
Emmylou's Animal Shelter
4/16/07 Emmylou Harris opened a new animal shelter in Nashville, Tennessee. Harris started the humane shelter in memory of her own pet, Bonaparte. James Calemine
A Benefit for Boyer: Southern Rockers Will Jam to Help Pay Medical Bills
Muscle Shoals musician Scott Boyer has always been one of the first to pitch in when one of his fellow players needed a hand. "It's a very close-knit community up here and when somebody goes down, the musical community in the Shoals has a history of read more...
On The Road in Athens for Marshall Tucker at Georgia Theatre
The last time I was at The Georgia Theatre in Athens, Georgia was several years ago. We had made the hour and a half trek from Greenville to see a show by Gov’t Mule with special guest John Scofield and opener Chris read more...
Johnny Cash's Tennessee Home Destroyed By Fire
NASHVILLE, Tennessee-- The Hendersonville, Tennesse home of the late Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash has been destroyed by a fire that broke out at appoximately 2pm CST on Tuesday, April 10. The house was immortalized in the movie Walk The Line. The 13,000 read more...
Swampland's Buffalo Featured in Easyriders Magazine
Swampland.com's own Michael Buffalo Smith is featured in a four-page article in the May 2007 European edition of Easyriders magazine. The famous biker read more...
"Grindhouse" is a True Tribute to Drive-In Movies
I can still remember the first time I went to a movie alone as a child. Actually, I was with my sister, but you know what I mean. I must have been ten years old. I had been to drive-ins many times with my parents, usually to see some Elvis flick or a Disney movie. In later years I read more...
Confessions of a TV Junkie
Okay, I’ll admit it. I sometimes spend way too much time sitting on the sofa in front of that infernal technological marvel called the television. I sometimes get sucked into a show before I even know what has happened. Oftentimes sitting here like I am right this read more...
On The Road at The Scott Boyer Benefit in Muscle Shoals
After a fun day with the Lopates (see my previous blog) we found ourselves at the Shoals Theatre in downtown Florence, Alabama for what promised to be a stellar all-star benefit concert. I had been looking forward to this one for quite some time, and The Mighty Field of Vision would read more...
From The Stone Pony To The Rockin’ Camel
(Toto, I Don’t Think We’re in Long Branch Any More) Tuesday, April 3rd, 2007 It was almost a given that we would drop by and visit long time friend Mitch Lopate and his lovely wife Cheryl on our way to the read more...
All-Star Scott Boyer Benefit Coming Wednesday
The first of two benefit shows for former Cowboy member Scott Boyer will take place this coming Wednesday, April 4th, at the Shoals Theatre in downtown Florence, Alabama. All money raised will help to pay Boyer’s medical bills from recent emergency surgery for an arterial read more...
Looking Ahead to Merlefest
It's getting close to that time again. Time for Merlefest, the biggest and best Americana music festival of all. Every year around this time, we start getting all excited about the festival, held in Wilkesboro, North Carolina in April. The line up this year is stellar as usual.
We Pay Tribute To The Bad Boys of Southern Rock, Molly Hatchet
There's a gator in the bushes, he's callin' my name! Yep! This week Swampland.com is proud to tip the hat to some of the baddest SOB's ever to sling a Stratocaster, the one and only Molly Hatchet. Check out our latest entry into the Legends of Southern Rock series read more...
All Star Tribute to Lynyrd Skynyrd Out This Week
Stars of country, classic rock and southern rock show their respect for one of the greatest bands ever on a new tribute to Lynyrd Skynyrd, released this week on the Cleopatra label. The CD features performances by Molly Hatchet, Charlie Daniels, Pat Travers, and read more...
Get Front Row Seats For Skynyrd and Hank, Jr.
STUBHUB FORGES NEW PARTNERSHIP TO PROVIDE FANS EXCLUSIVE FRONT ROW ACCESS TO LYNYRD SKYNYRD, HANK WILLIAMS JR. SPRING TOUR StubHub Designated as the “Rowdy Frynds” Tour Official Premium Ticket Provider SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. read more...
Please Bear With Us During Updates
We realize there are problems viewing the site, and we are working to correct these problems right now. The site is being updated, and will be fully operational soon with hundreds of new and archived features, interviews, reviews and more. Thank you for your patience, read more...
The Best Radio On The Internet, The Mighty Field of Vision
Whatever happened to radio anyhow? I mean, radio today just plain sucks. Sure, you can find some interesting programming here and there on public radio, and the satellite radio is good if you are willing to buy an actual satellite radio and then pay a monthly fee. Even then, there is read more...
Two Benefit Concerts Scheduled For Scott Boyer
SHOALS & BIRMINGHAM BENEFIT CONCERTS SET FOR FORMER CAPRICORN ARTIST SCOTT BOYER FLORENCE, Ala. - Dates have been set in April for two benefit concerts for former Capricorn Records artist Scott Boyer who has had surgery for an read more...
American Idol: It's a Southern Thang
Half way through last night’s American Idol results show, I found myself asking the same question I ask myself every single time I am lured into this capitalistic charade of pop culture – “Why do I watch this?” Well, truth be told, read more...
You're No Hair Dresser, So Stop Teasing Me: No Show Snow
As I sit down to write, the window near my desk is open, a cool breeze is blowing through, the sun is shining and the birds are singing. The only bad part is, we never really had a winter this year!
Sometimes I Favor Good Gospel Music
I just love music. I always have. All types of music, from good Southern rock to Outlaw Country, rhythm and blues to sweet soul, I love it all. But out of all the music in my library, there is perhaps none more closer to my heart than gospel music. Now, read more...
Road Trip to Beaufort, SC, Sports Fans!
Recently, we decided to take off, pretty much on a whim, and set sail for the shore. Jill and I had visited before, but it would be nice to take a leisurely drive and visit. I didn’t realize just how much that town has to offer until we took this unexpected road trip, read more...
Lynyrd Skynyrd, Marshall Tucker, Sister Hazel Set To Cruise in January 2008
Three Southern groups, Lynyrd Skynyrd, The Marshall Tucker Band and
Marshall Tucker Band to Headline All Star Concert with Lee Roy Parnell and Randall Bramblett
Rome, GA - The Rome Braves along with Classic Rock KZ 106 and Miller Lite announce that southern rock legends , The Marshall Tucker Band, will headline the All-Star Concert at the Forum in Rome on Monday June18th. Joining the Marshall Tucker Band will be country-blues artist Lee Roy read more...
Rodney Davis of Sailcat Dies
Rodney Reeves Davis, age 54, died February 28, 2007. He was born in Opp, Alabama to Willard and Josephine Davis who preceded him in death. He lived in Birmingham for the last 32 years. Rodney loved music and was a great read more...
Swampland Gets The Blues
Ain’t nothin’ like the blues. From the distant wail of Son House, to the darkness of Robert Johnson running from the Hell Hound, the blues are pure magic. In no other style of music can a song about “shootin’ your woman down because she cheated on you” read more...
See R.E.M. Inducted Into Hall Of Fame, Live On VH1 Classic
For the first time ever, VH1 Classic will air the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony LIVE on Monday, March 12 at 8:30 PM/ET. Music fans will get to see and hear Van Halen, R.E.M., Patti Smith, The Ronettes, and Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five read more...
Cherryholmes CD Coming in June
Bluegrass band Cherryholmes may have a new disc out in June on Skaggs Family Record. The family band, which won the IBMA bluegrass entertainer of the year award in 2005, finished mixing their second disc for the label Thursday. As of today, project remains untitled.
My First Molly Hatchet Concert, February, 1980
This morning I heard "Flirtin' with Disaster" on Rock 101 and it prompted me to recall a pivitol Southern Rock moment in my life. I remember the first time I heard the song. It was on my friend's Pioneer stereo. She had the LP. That song rattled the walls and I could feel it read more...
Toby Keith's Surprise Duet with Crystal Gayle
Toby Keith made a special request during Music City Jam in Nashville last night. He asked CrystalGayle up for a read more...
As One Gritz To Another
I remember in our pre-swampland.com days, when we first started Gritz online, some guy e-mailed me to tell me that he was enjoying the magazine, and was “honored” that we named the magazine after his band, Gritz. At the time, I read more...
WhiskeyStock Lineup Adds More Southern Rock
The lineup for the 1st Annual WhiskeyStock Music Fest, happening August 31 – September 3, 2007 has undergone some changes. The venue is being changed as well, due to legal reasons, and the new venue will be announced here soon. The lineup for the four-day read more...
Montgomery Gentry To Host Bike Rally
Montgomery Gentry will host the Academy of Country Music Celebrity Motorcycle Ride to be held May 13 in Las Vegas. After the ride, a concert will feature past and present ACM nominees. "I love that this is me and Troy's fourth year to host this event," said read more...
Willie Nelson Records Anti-War Song
Willie Nelson may oppose war in Iraq, but also supports the troops with his recently released single, "Whatever Happened To Peace On Earth"" available as an online download. The song features Ben Harper, Jack Johnson, Michael McDonald, Patrick Simmons of The Doobie read more...
Hank Jr. Assault Charges Dropped
Memphis prosecutors dropped assault charges against Hank Williams Jr., citing lack of evidence about the 2006 incident. A hotel cocktail waitress alleged that Williams yelled obscenities and grabbed her in the March 18, 2006 incident. Williams was in Memphis because two read more...
Billy Bob Thornton Shines In "The Astronaut Farmer"
Like most boys, I went through my “rockets and space” phase when I was a kid. I collected models of the space ships, and had photos and posters all over my bedroom wall of the Apollo rocket, alongside my Star Trek posters and an autographed photo I got from Neil read more...
South Carolina Radio and TV Pioneer Honored
BMI Award-winning songwriter Arthur “Guitar Boogie” Smith received the Honorary Life Membership Award from the South Carolina Broadcasters Association at their annual Winter Convention held recently in Columbia, S.C. BMI was on hand to present Smith with a Gold Record in read more...
Writing with Lee Bogan and Recording with Marshall Tucker, All in Two Days
It’s been a whirlwind couple of days, folks, but I have never been more “in my element.” When last we spoke, I had made my way to the greater Nashville area, having experienced a true spiritual animal communication. Wellsir, the next day, I drove over read more...
Deer Spirit
I made a last minute decision to drive up to Nashville today. I needed to lay down vocals on a demo that Lee Bogan and I wrote a couple of months back. We also needed to have another co-writing session, so I put the Honda in the wind and took off on the 6-hour drive, feeling read more...
Ghost Rider and Other Comic Book Movies
There has been a real surge of comic book movies over the past few year, and I must admit, I love it. I have been a comics fan my whole life, and once the Hollywood studios found out just how big the comics niche could be, the machine was set into motion.
Hank Williams, Jr. Files For Divorce
NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Country star Hank Williams Jr. has filed for divorce from his wife, Mary Jane, claiming she has a problem with addiction, he said in a statement Friday, according to The Tennessean, "Today is one of the toughest days in my life. My read more...
Unreal
Is it just me? Am I the only one who is sick to death of reality TV? I mean, it has gotten to the point of sheer insanity. The networks must really think we are stupid. Hey, let’s do a show where the contestants have to eat live spiders and drink blood. Cool. read more...
Holmes Brothers On Conan O'Brien
Celebrate President’s Day by watching American music masters The Holmes Brothers (Wendell Holmes, Sherman Holmes, Popsy Dixon) perform on NBC television’s Late Night With Conan O’Brien on Monday, February 19.
Mothers Finest Bassist To Release New Album On New Southern Label
WASHINGTON, Georgia -- Bless Your Heart Music, LLC (BYHM) is celebrating the anniversary of its first year in business by announcing a joint venture with Jerry "Wyzard" Seay that includes plans to release Primal Incantation, the very first solo release from Mother's Finest's read more...
Loretta Lynn To Receive Doctorate
Loretta Lynn will receive a honorary doctorate from the Berklee School of Music in March. Lynn will get an Honorary Doctorate of Music from the Boston school on the stage of the Grand Ole Opry durign her performance on "Grand Ole Opry Live" on GAC: Great read more...
Molly Hatchet Will Be Our Next "Legends"
Coming soon to swampland.com, our next Legends of Southern Rock entry, Molly Hatchet. From their self-titled debut album which included Danny Joe Brown, Dave Hlubek, Duane Roland, Steve Holland, Banner Thomas and Bruce Crump in the lineup, all the way to their very read more...
Billy Bob Thornton Sings On Tim McGraw Tribute
Billy Bob Thornton adds his unique vocals to a song on the new Tim McGraw tribute album, Where The Bluegrass Grows. Thornton takes on the lead vocal on "Ain't No Angels," the last song on the CD.
Americana Music Association Gets New Director
The Americana Music Association named Jed Hilly as new Executive Director of the group, it announced Monday. Hilly replaces Jeff Green, who left the group last year. Hilly will start as executive director of the seven-year-old trade organization promoting read more...
Bikers and Southern Rockers: A Great New Ear-Book
Last Friday I received something very special in my mailbox. The postmark was from Germany, and I spotted the return address as being from my friend Michael Stein, the Editor of the European branch of Easyriders magazine. The book is called Born to read more...
Dixie Chicks Dominate Grammys, Vince Gill Among Country Winners
The Dixie Chicks won big at the Grammy awards on Sunday, taking home awards for overall album and record of the year, best country album for "Taking the Long Way" and best song for "Not Ready to Make Nice," which they performed The trio read more...
Police to Headline at Bonnaroo
The Police will headline the June 16 date of the Bonnaroo music festival in Manchester, Tennessee, Billboard.com is reporting. Bonnaroo’s Web site confirms that the Police will be a headliner for the June 14-17 festival, and that read more...
WhiskeyStock To Feature The Best of Southern Rock and Country Bands
The 1st Annual WhiskeyStock Music Fest will be held on Aug. 31, 2007 thru Sept. 3, 2007 at Angel City in Unadilla, Ga
...Recording Adventures In The Classic City...
2/9/07 Last weekend I returned to my old stomping grounds in Athens, Georgia. The purpose of the visit was to record spoken word material with Daniel Hutchens and Eric Carter of Bloodkin. I lived with Danny and Eric for read more...
Montgomery Gentry Coming To Swampland.com
I love it when a plan comes together. Last week I was all set up and ready, locked and loaded, for my big interview with country superstar Eddie Montgomery of Montgomery Gentry. As fate would have it, the interview got postponed by the publicist because of something or read more...
Derek Trucks On Cover of Rolling Stone
Derek Trucks has made the cover of Rolling Stone. Well, he shares the cover anyway - with John Mayer and John Frusciante, under a bold title that reads “The New Guitar Gods.” The youngest Allman Brother has been higher profile than ever, following a tour read more...
Back Into The Studio With Tucker On A Nice Spring Day in February
Yesterday was good. Here in Greenville, South Carolina, it felt like spring. The weather was simply amazing. It made me feel like a million bucks- and then my buddy Doug Gray called. The day was getting even better. He asked me to come over to the studio and hang out, read more...
Fans Donate to Clay Walker's Charity
What do you get Clay Walker as a gift? For the eighth consecutive year The Crazy4Clay Gang has given a donation to The Band Against MS Foundation in Clay's honor as a gift.
Marty Stuart To Host Grammy Event
Marty Stuart has been tapped to host the 9th Annual Grammy Foundation Music Preservation Project, "The Soul of Country," on Thursday, Feb. 8 in Los Angeles. "The Soul of Country" celebrates the history of country music with performances and appearances by new and read more...
Hank, Jr. and Lynyrd Skynyrd Rowdy Friends Tour Coming Your Way
Hank Williams Jr. and Lynyrd Skynyrd are embarking on the Rowdy Frynds tour together this spring. Twenty shows were announced last week with more shows likely to be added.
McGraw and Hill To Tour Together In June
Soul2Soul 2007 will be hitting the road this summer with Tim McGraw and Faith Hill joining forces again. The husband and wife duo toured last summer with the Soul2Soul II Tour doing 73 shows in 55 cities and became the highest grossing country tour in history. The tour read more...
My Best Super Bowl Sunday Ever
What a weekend. I had pretty much decided to lay low and take this Saturday and Sunday to build up to the Super Bowl. Yes, you heard right. The Gritzman loves his Super Bowl. Oddly enough, I don’t find a lot of time to enjoy football games these days. I am read more...
Fat Possum Reissues Townes Van Zandt
2/5/07 Fat Possum records will be re-releasing vital Townes Van Zandt albums on May 1, 2007. The albums include For the Sake of the Song, Our Mother The Mountain, Townes Van Zandt, Delta Momma Blues, Flyin' Shoes, and read more...
Toy Caldwell Passed Fourteen Years Ago This Month
Fourteen Years After His Death, This Ol’ Cowboy Lives On When Toy Caldwell graduated from Dorman High School in Spartanburg, South Carolina in the mid-1960’s, he knew that he had a steady gig at the read more...
Merle Haggard Sings For Biodiesel
2/2/07 Now a spokesman for the National Biodiesel Board, Merle Haggard intends to spread the word on the energy crisis by performing at the 2007 Biodiesel Conference next week. James Calemine
Reissue of the Week: Sailcat's "Motorcycle Mama"
I was in the tenth grade in 1972, and I remember having the 45 of “Motorcycle Mama” by a group from Alabama known as Sailcat. It was quite a major hit, as I recall, and although it came to be lumped into the category of “novelty songs,” it was a really read more...
Gov't Mule Celebrates Millionth Download with Contest
Gov't Mule's MuleTracks.com is approaching it's Millionth Mule Tracks Download. In appreciation of it's fans interest in their concerts, Gov't Mule will host the "Download The Millionth Song read more...
The Charlie Daniels Band are Our Next "Southern Legends"
For decades Charlie Daniels has refused to label his music as anything other than "CDB music," music that helped elect an American president and that has been popularized on a variety of radio read more...
In The Studio with The Marshall Tucker Band
To some folks, hanging out in the recording studio for two days would be just plain boring and tedious. For me it’s more fun than watching the Super Bowl with four of my buddies and a keg of cold beer. I love to watch the magic that takes place in the recording studio, and I read more...
Van Zant Working On New Album
Van Zant recently began recording the follow-up to their gold-certified country debut, "Get Right with the Man."
Willie Nelson, Ray Price and Merle Haggard Record Again
Merle Haggard, Willie Nelson and Ray Price are joining together to put out a new album, "Last of the New Breed," in March featuring classics and new songs. The trio's first album together will be released by Lost Highway and lead to a tour as read more...
Legends of Southern Rock: The Marshall Tucker Band
I have been in the studio this weekend with The Marshall Tucker Band as they work on their new album for the Shout! Factory label, and it has been a blast. All of the music and conversation with band and crew members helped me to decide who would be first in our read more...
B.B. King Released From Texas Hospital
1/27/07 On Thursday night, blues legend B.B. King was admitted to The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston for unknown reasons, but officials reported he was in good condition on Friday. King, 81, was scheduled to perform at the Grand Opera House on Thursday when read more...
New Interviews with Doug Gray and Clay Walker Posted!
Greetings from the South, fellow babies. Just a few random notes to let y'all know that I have two new interviews posted on SWAMPLAND.COM as of today. One is with The Marshall Tucker Band's founding lead singer
Montgomery Gentry 2007 Tour Dates Announced
SWAMPLAND HAILS: The Allman Brothers Band
SWAMPLAND HONORS AN AMERICAN MUSICAL TREASURE: The Allman Brothers Band "Crossroads seem to come and go."
Hank Williams, Jr. Charts with Re-Mix of Hit from 25 Years Ago Today
Nashville, TN – Country music’s living outlaw, Hank Williams Jr., has hit yet another milestone in his career. Back in 1981, during the week of January 23rd, Williams’ song “A Country Boy Can Survive” hit the read more...
Little Richard's Benefactor Dies
1/23/07 Ann Howard allowed Little Richard Penniman to perform in her Macon, Georgia, nightclub when Penniman was still washing dishes at the Greyhound bus station to make ends meet. Ms. Howard died last week at 82. James Calemine
Ghost Riders Form Their Own All-Star Touring Band
The past few years have brought about an onslaught of “All Star” Southern Rock Bands, beginning with The Southern Rock Allstars (who actually began years ago as The Dixie Allstars). And you know what they read more...
Cadillac Sky To Release Debut CD at Mercy Lounge
Skaggs Family Records is proud to announce the CD release party for their bright young bluegrass band, Cadillac Sky. The party will be held at The Mercy Lounge in Nashville, TN on Tuesday, January 23rd at 6:00 PM. Admission is free. The event will celebrate the release read more...
Rich Robinson, Luther Dickinson, and Patti Smith
1/21/07 On Friday, January 19, Circle Sound performed at the Bowery Ballroom in New York City. Circle Sound comprises Rich Robinson (Black Crowes), Luther Dickinson (North Mississippi All Stars), Sven Pippien (Black Crowes), Bill Dobrow (Hookah Brown), and Rob Clores (Black read more...
Southern Rock Album of the Week: The Capricorn Rhythm Section
It’s no secret that I am a huge fan of the old Capricorn Records catalog. Everything from The Allman Brothers Band to Marshall Tucker, Wet Willie, Bonnie Bramlett, Cowboy, Eddie Hinton, Dickey Betts and all the rest. No small wonder I became excited when I first got read more...
Saturday Night in Macon, Georgia
Saturday in Macon, Georgia was pretty much a non-stop thrill ride. It all started out at the H&H Restaurant, where I was to meet Chris Hicks for lunch. Unfortunately, Chris was being pulled five different ways read more...
The Georgia Music Hall of Fame Rocks
When I arrived in Macon yesterday, one of the first things I wanted to do was to pay a visit to The Georgia Music Hall of Fame. I have visited a handful of times in the past but had not darkened their door since 2001. Besides, read more...
John, Eddie, Clay and My Road Trip to Macon
Hi guys. Well, it’s late Thursday night and I have had a simply great day. What can I say? Some days are just diamonds. It all began innocently enough with a phone call from blues legend John Hammond and the subsequent interview. My God, this man has been read more...
Point Blank Reunites for Tour and We Can't Wait to See 'Em Live!
I’m happy to announce some really exciting news. Southern rock pioneers Point Blank have reunited and will be heading out to Europe soon for a tour. Over the past ten years I have heard from countless Point Blank fans who are eager to see their heroes live again. Well friends, read more...
Allman Brothers Announce 2007 Beacon Run
The Allman Brothers Band have announced their traditional New York City run at Beacon Theatre, announcing 13 late-March shows. The band's read more...
"Dreamgirls" is a Winner
I just got in from one of the best movie musicals I have ever seen. Dreamgirls is a fictional story loosely based on the careers of The Supremes, James Brown and other R&B artists of the 1960s and ‘70s. They call it fiction but there are numerous stories woven into read more...
The Mighty Gov't Mule: Still The Best
Gov't Mule has been one of my very favorite southern bands for many years now. I'll never forget the first time I saw them live. It was 1998 at The Peace Center in Greenville, South Carolina. A rather "uppity" venue that usually features opera, Broadway shows and symphony read more...
Random Notes from The Land O' Gritz and Honey
Hi gang. The weekend is finally here! I finished reading Skydog: The Duane Allman read more...
Gritz Wants Your Input
Howdy GRITZ Gang! I trust everyone had a great Holiday season and had some good times wih family and friends. I sure did. Thank you all for your continued support and patience as we continue our merger with Swampland. Look for BIG things in 2007. We have a lot read more...
Gary Rossington's Poor Health Creates Changes in Skynyrd Cruise
Swampland has received the following press release in regard to the long awaited Gimmie Three Days Lynyrd Skynyrd Cruise, January 5-8 leaving out of Miami, and Gary Rossington's health problems. "In the final days leading up to Gimmie Three Days concert cruise, we read more...
Loretta Lynn Announces Early 2007 Tour Dates
1/1/07 After shattering her shoulder last year, the 71 year-old Loretta Lynn is ready to hit the road. Scheduled stops on Lynn's early 2007 (through March) tour include Huntsville, Owensboro, Burgettstown, Hamlin, Kansas City, Wichita, Winter Haven, and Council Bluffs. More read more...
Reminiscing About New Year's Eve Past
New Year’s Eve was fun this year. We went out for dinner, then came back home to chill out and watch the Garrison Keillor special on PBS, live from The Ryman Auditorium in Nashville. What a great show, with our friend Cowboy Jack Clement, and top of the line pickers that included read more...
Happy New Year: A Look Back at 2006 with Buffalo & Gritz
Happy New Year everyone! Thank you for reading GRITZ for another year, and a huge thank you for following us into our new home here at Swampland Media! 2006 was a fun year. Lots of great concerts, shows, CD’s, books, travel....It was GRITZ’s best read more...
Texas Writer Terry Southern Makes Music News...Again...
12/29/06 Texas writer Terry Southern's legend lives on. On January 9, 2007, a new set of Beatles stamps become available in England. Southern is the only person on the cover of the Beatles' Sergeant Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band (positioned between Dylan Thomas read more...
Listening to Music, Watching Holiday Movies, Etc.
Greetings from the South, where, at least at my house, it is nearly 75 degrees outside. Pretty crazy. Last year at this time we were under the biggest and longest deep freeze in history, so I am indeed grateful for the Spring-like weather as we transition into the next year.
The Dirty Dozen Brass Band Comes Marching In...
12/24/06 On December 28, the Dirty Dozen Brass Band plays an intimate gig at George Street Grocery in Jackson, Mississippi. The next night, The Dirty Dozen lights up Tipitina's in their hometown of New Orleans. New Years Eve finds the group in the beautiful Arizona read more...
Christmas Wishes from GRITZ
Hi y'all. I just wanted to drop a note to say Merry Christmas and yes, I will be doing the "year end blog" as promised, but I just realized that we have another week and a lot can happen during that time. So I will save the wrap up for New Year's Eve. Deal? Meanwhile, read more...
American Idol Jams at Warren Haynes Christmas
American Idol winner, Taylor Hicks, joined Outformation onstage in front of a sold-out crowd at Asheville's Stella Blue on December 15 along side Warren Haynes annual Christmas Jam. Named one of the Top 10 Concerts of the Year by the London Times, Warren Haynes' Christmas benefit for read more...
Don't Cry On My Shoulder Baby If You Don't Want a Waterfall Comin' Down On Your Head Some Day
I love music. I especially love the lyrics. But even more than the words and music, I love the titles. Now, in the field of pop-rock music, creative song titles are somehow few and far between. If you're looking for really nifty titles, you need look no further than the read more...
Stillwater Hosts Annual Southern Rock Jam in Macon December 29th
Stillwater will host their annual reunion concert in Macon, Georgia on December 29th at Whiskey River. The Southern rock jam will also feature Jimmy Hall (Wet Willie), The Winters Brothers Band, Ronnie Hammond (ARS) Josh Graff, Big Mike the Booty Papa, Eddie Stone, Tony Cooper and read more...
Volunteer Jam Ready to Hit the Road Again
NASHVILLE- Charlie Daniels, leader of the Charlie Daniels Band, has announced the legendary Volunteer Jam Tour will, once again, hit cities all across America. The Volunteer Jam started back in 1974 when Charlie wanted to record "Fire On The Mountain" in front of a read more...
The Ramblin' Man is Still One of My Favorites
Many thanks to everyone all over the world who sent e-mails, cards, flowers and made calls of condolence regarding my Father. It meant the world to me and my family. I was sitting around today thinking about the first time I ever met recent birthday boy Dickey read more...
Daddy Was a Southern Rocker
Paul Thorn has a great song called "Give Them Their Roses While They're Here." A truer thought has never been voiced in song. This afternoon I was blindsided. Since my merger with Swampland Media, I have literlly been having the time of my life. Writing, visiting read more...
Big House Foundation Need Your Help
Howdy everyone. Thanks for dropping by. Stay tuned to GRITZ for a couple of red hot interviews coming in the next few weeks. We will be offering up a tasty conversation with John Hammond, discussing all of his great work over the years, and a brand new interview with Montgomery read more...
Moving On Up...
A huge “thank you” to all of the GRITZ readers who have sent e-mails and called us to congratulate us on the merger with SWAMPLAND.COM. As always, we thank you for your support. Several people have asked questions about the merger, and I want to address them read more...
The Top Ten Albums of The Year
1. Vince Gill: These Days (MCA) This is one of the most ambitious and outstanding releases I have seen in years. Four Cds and not a single bad track. An excellent album filled with rock, country, gospel and bluegrass, and some amazing vocals read more...
Killer On The Loose...Jerry Lee Lewis Tours...
12/11/06 On September 26, 2006, Last Man Standing, Jerry Lee Lewis' latest CD hit the stores. The collection features musical appearances by Jimmy Page, B.B. King, Bruce Springsteen, Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Ronnie Wood, Neil Young, Robbie Robertson, Willie read more...
Nashville Cats
I spent most of last week in Nashville and man oh man was it ever fun. I was invited by my friends at SIRIUS Satellite radio to join Hillbilly Jim as his special online guest to talk about GRITZ and our merger with Swampland, and to share a few southern rock road stories. The show read more...
Welcome to the New Home of GRITZ!!
Hi friends, and welcome to the new home of Gritz on the web. I am extremely happy to announce the greatest merger to hit the South since Elvis met Col. Tom Parker, that of Gritz (featuring her illustrious founder, Michael Buffalo Smith) and Swampland Media, an absolutely amazing read more...
WHEN IN ROME...
MY SECOND VISIT TO A BAR THAT DOESN'T EXIST: PLAYING WITH DONNIE WINTERS, SINGING WITH PAUL THORN AND RECORDING WITH GEORGE McCORKLE ALL IN TWO DAYS! By Michael Buffalo Smith November 2006 read more...