I was outside in the sun doing my Jack LaLanne  leg lifts while listening to “Hound Dog” on my mp3 player when it dawned on me I should find out more about Big Mama Thornton. I know a lot about Elvis and we’ve all heard his take on this classic tune but have you heard Big Mama’s version?

I looked up Big Mama Thornton and found out her real name was Willie Mae Thornton born in 1926 and died in 1984. She was a rhythm & blues singer, songwriter and the first to record the hit song “Hound Dog” in 1952. The song was #1 on the Billboard R&B charts for seven weeks. You might recall the song by Janice Joplin called “Ball & Chain”. Well Big Mama made that a hit first and then Janice did her own thing with it in the late 60’s.

I’ve mentioned before I like to listen when the collective conscious whispers to me. I’m glad I did because it turns out there is a musical performance going on now in Los Angeles starring Blues & Jazz legend Barbara Morrison.

If you’re in the area do like Big Mama would say, “Go on get!”

Get yourself over to a performance. Visit Barbara’s official site for more information. http://barbaramorrison.com/

A Blues Musical
“Howlin’ Blues & Dirty Dogs”
The life and times of “Big Mama Thornton”
Starring Blues & Jazz Legend Barbara Morrison
details Call : 310-462-1439
Where:
The Stella Adler Theatre
6773 Hollywood Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA.
When:
January 22, – April 12, 2009

Time:
8PM Thursday, Friday, Saturday,
3PM and 6PM on Sundays