Welcome back to “As I See It”.

I had known Johnny Otis all of my life. He and my mother had been friends since the 50’s, before I was born.

In case you don’t know who Johnny Otis is, let me catch you up.

Among other things, Johnny was a musician, band leader, composer and songwriter. He rose to fame in the late 50’s with his hit song, “Willie and The Hand Jive”. He was also known for his work as a talent scout, discovering singers including Etta James, Little Esther Phillips, Big Mama Thornton, and Jackie Wilson. 

In 1953 he produced and played drums on Big Mama Thorton’s version of “Hound Dog”, the first time that song was recorded.

He was referred to as the “Godfather of Rhythm and Blues”

As a child, I remember going to his house in Los Angeles. I remember my mom forcing me to sing for him when I was, maybe 10 or 11 years old. I remember at a party, my father pulling quarters out from behind the ears of some of the children that were there. I remember going to Johnny Otis New Year's Eve gigs.

I remember in the early 90’s, Johnny and his family moving to Sebastopol, CA, where I was living with my family. My then husband worked with Johnny in opening up the Johnny Otis Market, which for a minute was quite popular. Not only was it a specialty food market, but the walls were covered with original Johnny Otis paintings, music performances were held regularly, and Johnny broadcast his radio show from there.

All of this leads up to last Sunday. It was the second day of the annual Apple Blossom Festival, held in Sebastopol, CA. 

That day there was a Johnny Otis tribute concert. The band that played was the Blues Defenders, including their drummer, Nick Otis. 

I call him Nicky. That’s what I always called him.

Along with the band, there were singers and musicians who had played with Johnny. It was a rockin’ two and a half hour set.

What made it extra special to me was that it was held on the fifth anniversary of my mother’s passing.

The synchronicity was not lost on me.

Till next time.

Be Well