The Golden Gate Blues Society is bringing together two of its award-winning entertainers, Living Legends Nat Bolden, winner of their Mr. Bluesman Award with his veteran band The State of Mind Blues Band, and “The Godfather” Fillmore Slim, winner of their first Living Legend Award. This will be an evening of true, gritty Oakland Blues at its finest.
Performing an intricate combination of West Coast, Chicago and Delta genres, come and witness for yourself what countless Bay Area blues fans have been enjoying for decades in the nightclubs and festivals of Northern California and far beyond.
NAT BOLDEN:
Born in Pine Bluff, AK in 1928, Nat left for California in 1950, becoming a welder and a businessman. Nat owned and performed in the ‘Til Two Lounge on 66th Street and performed in clubs and BBQs for decades. His comic approach and smooth voice and moves has made him a popular entertainer to all ages. He is especially adept at bandleading and finding venues and gigs in all areas and times.
FILLMORE SLIM:
Born in Baton Rouge in 1934, by 1955 Clarence Sims was in Los Angeles playing music in the street, later releasing a few 45 rpm records. Oakland’s Eli’s Mile High Club owner Troyce Key recorded his first album released in 1987. Other record deals have released over 5 more records while his songwriting and performing skills have garnered several awards including “Jus Blues” award in Memphis 2011. Having toured Europe and the US and recently performing at The King Biscuit Festival in Helena, AK and The World Famous Rhythm and Blues Cruise, we are privileged to enjoy him during his 90th year!
SHARON DAVIS
Growing up in Chicago, Sharon was influenced by Soul and Blues singers Johnny Taylor, Bobby Bland, Al Green, Richmond California’s own Joe Simon, Aretha Franklin and Gladys Knight; some lofty voices. After settling in Oakland, Sharon began to perform with Nat Bolden and has been with him for 12 years.
Sharon sings back-up, gospel-tinged phrases weaving around Nat’s leads. At times her powerful voice can take on the sound of a small choir all on her own. She can also hold her own as she clearly owns Taylor’s “Wall to Wall”.
NIKLAS NORDSTROM
Niklas has been a major fixture on the Oakland Blues scene for many years. A guitar player for 56 years as well as bass guitar (25 years), he has backed up Living Legends Pinetop Perkins, Trudy Lynn, Sonny Rhodes and Chick Willis. Nick also toured Mexico and recorded CDs with local Blues star JC Smith.
JAY JAY SAXX
Born in Beloit, Wisconsin, Jay Jay began playing saxophone in 6th grade at 11 years old, continuing until graduation from high school. He performed around Madison, WI and Rockford, Illinois before relocating to the Bay Area continuing as opening act for Kool & the Gang, War, ConFunkshun, KC & the Sunshine Band, Steve Winwood, and Blue Oyster Cult. Lately Jay Jay has contributed to a vast amount of shows and has joined Nat Bolden State of Mind Blues Band.
ELI ALBERT
Drummer Eli Albert lives in Hayward and has contributed to shows and Blues Jams in and around the East Bay for decades. He is a drummer for The West Coast Blues Society Caravan of Allstars and The Nat Bolden State of Mind Blues Band.
MIKE WILLIAMS
Hailing from our very own Richmond, California, Mike has been playing bass guitar for over 25 years and has played with Nat Bolden and the State of Mind Blues Band for the last 10. Mike is also a fine lead vocalist as well.
Tickets are $25 general admission. Children under 12 are free. Advance tickets are available here, or if the show is not sold out, you may purchase your tickets at the door before the show.
Doors open one half hour before show time. We accept cash or Venmo only at the door.
The Back Room is an all-ages, BYOB (for those 21+) space, dedicated to (mostly) acoustic music of all kinds. You are welcome to bring your own food and beverages. The venue is ADA accessible. If you need more information or have any questions, please call us: #510-381-1997.
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Thank you for your support!
Please note: Although masks are no longer required, we strongly encourage their use to keep everyone safe in our intimate space.
