de Morgen.
When swamprocker Toy Joe White passes by in Gent there are a number of questions to ask. From "who does this man thinks he is" to "why does a musician of his calibre put up with the hardships of a life on tour? One question after the other was answered by the man during his performance in a sold-out 'Handelsbeurs'.
1. Tony Joe White is the original. From Joe Cocker to Elvis Presley, these performers have all had world successes with songs written by this laid-back American. In other words he does not really have to work anymore. The cowboy from Louisiana has feathered his nest. Since he is now touring he European stages with his cd Uncovered one understands why he claims some of these successes for himself. His Undercover agent for the blues was once again more seducing than Aunt Tina Turner herself.
2. Tony Joe White is the professional. Just like the previous times, already after he first song the American asked for possible requests. A smart approach which made him laugh all the louder: "OK, I wil play them all". But with this approach he immediately knows what type of public he faces. In Gent no one dared to ask for Polk Salad Annie, nor Steamy Windows. The Flamish are reserved people, they request fine songs which indicate that they know who the 'old' man (63) with the black hat on the stool is.
3. Tony Joe White is a one man band. Barely supported by a drummer, the guitar of White sounds as if Creedence Clearwater Revival is having a reunion, as if Bob Dylan plays the mouthorgan and if Emmylou Harris in the back colors his humming bass voice… On a field of play which is overloaded with bues-, soul-, R&B- and other rockers Tony Joe White has his own high ranking level: swamp or swamprock. A name indicating that his songs have so much suction power that you are in danger of drowning.
Nov 21 2006
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