In Memory of:

On June 18th we had our annual gathering of the clan aka The Jam-A-Que in Nashville, Tennessee. It was the best turn out we've ever had that included numerous artists that came to perform, jam and hang out with friends. This was my 5th one, something I look forward to every year more than any other holiday! If you've never been to one of these events it may be a little difficult to understand the comraderie among all of us and the long lasting friendships that have been made over the years. I truly treasure them all. Jody Willman explains this connection pretty well in the article he wrote.

These are the bands and musicians that performed that day who all did an excellent job. Thank you all so much for being there!

-Daffin Dirt Bath Band with Scott Braswell
-The Outfit
-DB Bryant Band
-Monica Perry
-Southern Rock Society with Sherry Spires and Michael Herring
-Darren Brothers Band and Jennifer Friend
-Rambler
-Southern Boys Band
-Tribute / Jam - Southern Boys Band, Bruce Wall, Justin McCorkle, Steve Grisham, Bobby Cook, Destiny White (daughter of JoJo Billingsley-White), Harley Lamoureux, Scott Braswell, Ronnie Riddle, Joe Bar-Nadav (who also played ALL DAY) , Jim Wagner, Monica Perry (If I've left anybody out, please let me know)
-Don Ray Band

This year's jam was a little different than the previous ones besides the venue. It was in honor of my good friend Susan Snider, who has made it to 6 of these events since 2006. I remember that she sold her car so she could attend her first one that was held at Bobby Booth's place, which is how and when all of this began the year before. This Jam-A-Que was also a tribute to all of our fallen Southern Rock friends that we've lost in recent years; George McCorkle, Jo Jo Billingsley, Tommy Crain and numerous others that have gone before them. We owe them a huge debt of gratitude for the music they shared with all of us. Our world of music would not have been the same without them.

On a more personal note.....for me this one was extra special aside from being there for Susan. My main man here on the magazine, Hank "Hitman" Hart flew down from "Joisey" for the Jam, so we got to spend some much needed time together! AND I had the honor of finally meeting one of my best friends in person, face to face - Sherry Spires. She is the widow of the late Jakson "Thunderfoot" Spires and sister of Skynyrd guitarist, Rickey Medlocke - both founding members of Blackfoot. We met on myspace 3 years ago and have spent countless hours developing this friendship over the phone and through the Internet via emails, myspace and Facebook. When we finally did meet each other face to face that day, neither of us were aware at the time that there was a small crowd gathering to witness this little reunion. Sherry did an excellent job performing with the ever-so talented guys in the Southern Rock Society Band, that also included her brother Michael Herring on harmonica on a few songs. We spent the next day together hanging out in downtown Nashville. Thanks for being there, my friend!

Lastly, I'd like to mention my good friend and mentor, Bruce Wall. None of this would ever have been possible without the work he's done with so many endeavors over the years. So many that I couldn't even begin to count them all and I've worked by his side through a lot of them. Because of him there have been numerous websites designed, friendships made, bands given much needed exposure, music recorded and published, etc etc etc..... There would also be no Southern Fried Magazine without Bruce Wall and George McCorkle. He says this is his final jam. Well, he and Denise may need a rest for a while, but somehow I don't think we've heard the last of them regarding the Jam-A-Que. And if they need a break next year, the rest of us will pick up the slack and do it again.....that's the plan anyway. I'd like to personally thank EVERYONE who helped us put this year's JAQ together, there's a lot of work that goes into this - The Nashville Palace, Copley Guitars, all of the organizers in numerous capacities, the artists, the people that donated items for the raffle and everyone who came out on their own dime to participate in all of the fun. We'll see ya'll next year!
~Teri Merchant~

I call myself a writer, a storyteller and a wannabe lyricist. But when asked to write about the 2011 Jam-A-Que held on Saturday, June 18th at the beautiful Nashville Palace, I jumped at the chance because It’s become a part of my life for the past seven years. Then it hit me, how the hell am I going to describe this event to someone that wasn’t there and get across the meaning of it? Because it has meaning, a deep personal meaning to all “Down South Jukin’ “ members that have made more than one of the now famous event called The JAM-A-QUE! I’m going to try to give ya’ll a taste of what it’s like to be a part of the history of it and what it was like to be a part of this one. Bear with me, this could get a bit lengthy…

In 2004 I became a bit pissed at some of the Southern Rock sites that were constantly arguing about which Skynyrd was the best, were the Allman Brothers better than The Marshall Tucker band, crap like that. So I went looking for a site that didn’t do that. One that actually loved Southern Rock and southern heritage and didn’t put up with putting down a band that works their ass off to perform for people, to entertain! I found such a place in June of 2004. It was started by Bruce Wall from Arkansas by way of Arizona then Nashville. Bruce had a dream. He wanted a website that HONORED ALL Southern Rockers and the music... THE MUSIC! He built “Down South Jukin’” and for me, the good times started to roll. The site was moderately successful I suppose when compared to some of these mammoth sites these days. The thing was, EVERYBODY that became a member had many things in common. Love of God, family and country not withstanding it was the love of Southern Rock that made us gel. We became “Online Friends” but after about a year that wasn’t good enough. We needed a PARTY! So in 2005 I loaded up my wife and the car and we headed to Nashville, a twelve hour drive from my part of Texas to what was being called a Jam-A-Que at Bobby Booth's house west of town. I’d like to say something was born that weekend but in truth it was REBORN! A rebirth of Southern Rock you could say, in a way.

Through these gatherings I’ve met some great friends like the wonderful Jane Van Zant and some legends like Dan Toler, Chris Hicks, Harley Lamoureux, the Precious Jo Jo Billingsley (God bless her) and one of the founding members of the Marshall Tucker band AND this event ... George McCorkle (Rest in peace my friend). And even a trip to New York to meet members of the original Lynyrd Skynyrd band; Ed King, Leslie Hawkins and Artimus Pyle among countless other artists like Bo Bice from American Idol fame. All of these people were great to meet and hang with, but there are literally hundreds more I could name that I’ve had the pleasure to get to know through the first six JAQ’s.

Think about it, we started in Bobby’s front yard for the first two, then Bruce’s back yard for four of them, all bigger and better than the last one through the years until this one…this one was the icing on the cake, it was at the world famous Nashville Palace and what a freakin’ show it was! The thing is ALL of the artists that come to these events come on their own dime, gas, food, lodging, everything is paid for by the bands! How many genres of music is there that you could find more than a couple of people willing to do that? I mean when one of my favorite bands, Preacher Stone, had to bow out due to scheduling problems I/ we were disappointed cause we love the band but around 10:00 that night who shows up but Ronnie Riddle the lead singer for the band all the way from Carolina just to show his support for the event. Amazing people, good people. The palace did an incredible job hosting the event. And the talent? Man! How can I describe seeing Jo Jo’s young daughter Destiny up on stage, or Justin McCorkle, George’s son up there with his cousins the Southern Boys Band who are now good friends of ours just ripping it up out there (congrats on the C.D. guys) Sweet Sherry Spires wife of the late great Jakson “Thunderfoot “ Spires from Blackfoot up there with the Southern Rock Society just tearing it up? The Outfit, the D.B. Bryant Band, the gorgeous and super talented Monica Perry up from Houston, the Don Ray Band, Joseph (Jersey Joe) Bar-Nadav banging the keys. And, of course, the super great band from Florida, Rambler! Thanks Pat and Rich and the gang for making it! And a great young guitarist named Bobby Cook down from Connecticut to blow us away with his talent (Remember the name). Jim Wagner and his amazing pick-ups that he builds needs a mention for all he does for the JAQs. Got to thank Scott Braswell now a member of the George Hatcher Band and a very good friend and guitarist supreme for all the work he puts in on all the JAQs... You rock my friend! Then, of course, you have to thank the creator, Mr. Southern Rock himself Bruce Wall and his beautiful wife Denise for all the years and money they’ve invested in these events. Man ya’ll have made mine and many others’ life a better time and we thank you!

Write up the JAM-A-QUES? How can I describe the friendships made? The thrills I’ve gotten over seeing some of my heroes not just on stage but sitting next to me, laughing, being themselves…that may be the key, themselves, and themselves is AWESOME! Look folks this event has gone from a small gathering of like minded people in someone’s back yard jammin’ and bar-b-quein' like long lost friends to being held at one of Nashville’s oldest and most adored venues. All because of the people! The great people that give it all to be there, perform there, and it just does not get any better than that, to me at least.

I’ve laughed hard and I’ve cried hard over the years, like two years before when the legendary Georgia Music Hall of Famer Chris Hicks called Justin McCorkle up on stage to do his dad's song “I Love You That Way” Yeah, I cried, but it was a proud cry…I know that those that were here for the first time may not know what it means to all of us that have been there from the first one, but you had to feel it, you had to get a sense of what this is. And trust me, if you make some more of them, (God willing there’ll be more) you’ll soon see and feel what it’s like to be a part of something so great, so real and so beautiful…Thank you Bruce Wall for being who you are and thanks to Teri Merchant for being who you are! God bless Randy and Susan Snider, faithful friends and great people! I know I’ve left folks out but I have wet eyes now so…

In short if you ever have a chance to get to a JAQ you’d better do it! You’ll never regret it I promise! They say this was the last one…not if I can help it! Me and some friends in Texas are in the middle of building a venue for these type of events and we WILL host a JAQ either next year or the year after and we’d love to see everybody show up to keep it going! God bless the south and those that love her! And ya’ll keep it Southern Fried!!
~Jody Willman~

We had the distinct pleasure of attending the Jam-A-Que 2011 for the first time! We had heard about it for the last couple of years from a very good friend of ours, Jane Van Zant. She had told us about what an awesome event it's been and that if we ever have an opportunity to attend, we should.

In the meantime, our son, Bobby Chet Cook, was befriended on Youtube by a man named Tony Beazley. They'd known each other for several years and had always wanted to jam together, as they are both "Southern Rockers" and shared the same love of playing/covering Lynyrd Skynyrd's music. They'd been playing that music for years. So, when Tony heard we were going to be attending the JAQ, he cordially invited Bobby Chet to play with him and his band, The Nashville Outfit. Everyone in the band, Tony, Mike McIIwain, CJ Dubuisson and Larry Goad were very welcoming and worked on a set list the night prior to the pre-Jam show. One of the best things about being involved with the JAQ is every other musician there is willing to jam with you. Bobby Chet was honored to share the stage with awesome, experienced musicians like Harley Lamoureux and Scott Braswell. The band was even joined by Destiny White (daughter of the late JoJo Billingsley, a former Skynyrd Honkette) on the song That Smell, at the JAQ. Additionally, meeting other bands such as the Southern Rock Society Band and Rambler (to name a few) friends from Florida was an added treat.

We found that all the people who helped put this event together, from the great Bruce and Denise Wall , all the way to those involved with the pre-jam, from CJ Dubuisson and Marcy Runge who "did up" the Susan Snider Love-In to the sweet gals Janet Vaughn, JoAnn Nagel and Monica Stockton who did the pictures and videos not only made everyone there-artists as well as friends-feel welcomed, and like the band they were with feel special.

The overwhelming sincerity, generosity and "down home" hospitality was especially appreciated. It was quite an experience for anyone and everyone who attended and was a memorable event for those who took the stage. Jane Van Zant was oh-so right!! This was singly the most unique, awesome experience for our son, and our family as a whole. We are indebted to her, The Walls, Tony Beazley & The Nashville Outfit and all the other bands; friends, old and new that welcomed us with open arms and an open heart. We sure do hope to do this again! Thank You all!

And, last but certainly not least, we'd like to thank you, Teri Merchant for allowing us to convey our thoughts and feelings to everyone. May God & St.Jude Bless You All.
Bobby, Alane & Bobby Chet Cook~

It was a rainy Saturday as I pulled up to the Nashville Palace…after spending so much time in Texas during the biggest drought in history, I wasn’t sure I recognized what was falling from the sky. I was so looking forward to seeing my favorite people…those special souls that have been brought into my life by Fate…who I know love and adore me, and support me without question. I couldn’t wait to get inside.. The music had started, and sweet Bruce had called and said I was next. I found Bruce and Denise as soon as I got there…hugs all around…the Love Fest had started. I played…and found power and strength in the people that were in that room. When I introduced Guitar Playing Man, I thanked George McCorkle…for sharing such an amazing song with me. I traveled back in my mind to the day we started writing the song. The memories flooded my heart and mind and I almost couldn’t start singing…the emotions were incredibly strong.

As always…whether it be Jam4George, Jam A Que, Jam for JoJo or any Southern Rock event…it’s about the love…about the love of the music, of each other, of the incredible history…of the legacy that means so much to each and every one of us. It truly feeds my soul. All of us who feel that love, that intensity, that closeness – we are blessed more than we know. So few people ever feel such a connection…it is a true gift from God above. The music continued through the day and I was constantly moved and amazed by the incredible artistry of everyone who played. Throughout the day, I was fortunate enough to mingle with those in the audience. It wasn’t just me! Everyone was having a great time…and, most importantly….feeling the LOVE!! My personal highlights? Jamming with the Southern Boys, JMac, Destiny, Scott, Joe, Harley and Bruce...catching up with old and new friends…Laughing….hugs…great music…great friends…SOUL FOOD. I played my set around 1 PM. I didn’t leave the venue until 1:30 AM. I loved and lived every single minute and didn’t want it to end. What a testament to the friends…no….the FAMILY…that were there that day. After a very tough year for many of us, this was a true God Send. This CANNOT be the final Jam A Que…this has to continue. It is what keeps us connected to each other…it is what reminds us why we do what we do. Most importantly, at least to me, it keeps us connected to our past…to our history…to those who have gone before. They have brought us here…they have brought us together to celebrate this great form of music – and also to celebrate each other. Teri, Bruce and everyone who made this possible…thank you from the bottom of my heart. I sincerely hope to see you all next year…with all of my heart I hope that this great event continues.
~Monica Perry~

Hello Southern Rock, Blues and Rockin’ Country Soul friends. My brothers and I in the Don Ray Band recently had the extreme pleasure of performing at Jam A Que 2011 held in Nashville, TN. at the historic Nashville Palace. This was our first appearance at this annual rock fest and man have we been missing something. Premier Southern Rockers from all regions of the South were there as well as the most hardcore fans and supporters of their music. I got to personally meet some awesome new friends and listen to some great musicians of the genre as it is represented today. If you missed it, you missed a lot. When we took the stage to close out the Jam, we were greeted by an overwhelmingly enthusiastic crowd. We loved who we met, loved who we performed for and overall loved every minute of it. I sincerely hope this event continues for years to come.
~Don Ray - Don Ray Band~

Living in Arizona, good Southern Rock bands are about as common as rain. The music is usually butchered so bad that you find yourself heading for home so you can play your favorite MTB or Skynyrd song. As a fan of Southern Rock since the late 60’s, I found myself heading to Nashville for the 2011 Jam-A-Que. From beginning to end, all I can say is WOW! Upon entering the Nashville Palace, the first thing you notice is just how friendly everyone is. At times it’s hard to tell who’s in the bands and who’s just enjoying the wonderful music. For close to thirteen hours we listened to band after band play some of the best Southern Rock you could ever ask for. When Sherry Spires joined the Southern Rock Society on stage and sang “Highway Song” you just knew the late Jakson Spires was looking on and giving her the thumbs up. The Skynyrd song “Call Me The Breeze” turned in to one of the best jam sessions I have ever seen. I lost count at twelve people on stage. As the show came to an end and we began to exit, it became very evident that Southern Rock is alive and well, and the spirits of our Fallen Frynds will live on forever. Thank you Bruce, Scott, Teri, and everybody else who helped make this event happen, y’all have done the South proud.

~Robert Hickey~

 

I would like to thank Teri for allowing me to write about my Jam-A-Que experience. I believe it’s safe to say that my trip to Nashville was anything but ordinary. It seems there is always something to do; another opportunity around every corner. My appreciation is sent out to my Aunt Tina, Aunt Jane Van Zant, Ms. Janet, and last but never least, my Mom. If it weren’t for them, no opportunity like this would’ve been made possible. Without their inspiration and encouragement I don’t think any of my goals would have been met. Being a singer has always been my biggest goal. At five, most girls dream to be a princess. I dreamed of the stage.. While I was down there, I sang at C.J’s. It is one of my first “jam sessions” and let me tell you, it was definitely an experience. I’m used to singing at little competitions around Delaware. Competitions where no one cares how talented you are. As soon as I walked in, you could tell, they knew what they wanted to hear, and they were ready to rock. So getting up on that stage with no instruments, it was a little intimidating. Once I started to sing, I knew it was another goal I’ve taken over. C.J. was one of the many people that I met while I was in Tennessee. Bobby Chet, an up and coming musician was another person I was eager to meet. Aunt Jane told me all about him, and how great he was. I heard the kid play and he was absolutely amazing! I also met Peter Keys, keyboard player from Lynyrd Skynyrd as well as the guys from the Southern Boys Band. Another person I would like to mention is Bruce Wall. He made the Jam-A-Que possible, and even though it is possibly the last one he is putting on, I am glad to say that I had the pleasure of meeting him and attending such a well put together event. Bruce helped me out with bettering my portfolio, and gave some good tips. He as well as his family were very welcoming. The Jam-A-Que was great! My family and I stayed from beginning to end. The music was great, the people were a good crowd. Everything about it was, well.. GREAT! I am very blessed to be taken as far as I have in the music business. Just starting out is a difficult thing to do, but with this great accomplishment and the words of encouragement, I can only pray that that one day, I’ll be noticed in Nashville. I know there are people that I did not mention like Monica Perry, Coconut Harley, Rambler, etc. but, they all meant just as much.

~Katrina Pritt~

 

 

 

The Outfit and friends at CJ's the night before the Jam-A-Que. Poster created by Tony Beasley.

Photos by Randy Lynn Blevins and Janet Vaughn

 

 

The Outfit

 

 

Bobby Chet Cook

 

Janet's Vaughn's surprise birthday party. Courtesy of Jane Van Zant and

Monica Stockton.

 

 

More birthday photos in Monica's Facebook album.

 

 

 

There were hundreds of photos taken that weekend. You can find them in the Facebook albums of the following people. Thank you so much for letting me use some of them here.

Janet Vaughn

Videos taken by JoAnn Nagel. There are more on her youtube account tubenagel. Thank you JoAnn!