2002 Bluesin' Scrapbook
7 Day Virgin Voyage

** The 2002 Virgin Voyage line-up: **

Taj Mahal & The Phantom Blues Band see 2002 video (RealPlayer)
Possibly the most diverse bluesman in the world, Taj joins the Legendary R&B Cruise fresh after receiving this years Grammy Award for, Shoutin' In Key, (his 2nd consecutive Blues Grammy). Mike Finnigan, a recent addition to the powerhouse group promises to take the Phantom Band to new levels. With West Indies ancestry, no one feels more at home on the high-seas than Taj, singing and performing on the Pool deck. Official Site
The Fabulous Thunderbirds see 2002 video (RealPlayer)
The quintessential blues/rock band for the past 25 years, Kim Wilson and the Fab T-Birds (which now includes drummer Jimi Bott) know how to "Rock The Boat." Whether laying down your favorite hits in concert or jamming the blues after midnight with their all-star lineup, the T-Birds frontline of Kim Wilson and Kid Ramos are the definitive dynamic duo. Official Site
Ike Turner With The Ike-Ettes
Inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame for the 1951 recording of "Rocket 88" and considered by many as the "Father of Rock and Roll," Ike Turner brings his full Revue that includes the Ike-ettes. Ike's contribution to blues, r&b and rock and roll, from his early years at Sun Records with Elvis and Howlin' Wolf to his rollercoaster years with Tina, are monumental. We'll be rollin' on the high seas with Ike. Official Site
Charlie Musselwhite
A tremendous harmonica stylist, Charlie has received more WC Handy Awards (7) than any other harmonica player in history. Charlie has recorded on over 80 albums during his 35 years, having received calls from John Lee Hooker, Bonnie Raitt and INXS. Weaving various international folk music with tough urban blues, you can rest assured the dolphins will be swimming alongside of the ship when Charlie blows his horn. Official Site
Shemekia Copeland see 2002 video (RealPlayer)
Although Shemekia may be the "youngster" of the cruise's star-studded lineup, she received a Grammy nomination this year for "Wicked" and has multiple WC Handy nominations (including Entertainer of the Year) for the 2nd year in a row. She's frequently considered the "Heir to the Throne" as the next Queen of the Blues. Shemekia's live shows are both explosive and breathtaking. Official Site


Jimmy Thackery & The Drivers see 2002 video (RealPlayer)
You will be "grabbing the rafters" up on the pool deck when Jimmy Thackery fires up his band and guitars. The blues/rocker has never sounded any better than on his current CD, "Sinner Street." Never timid when it comes to jamming, Jimmy's known to bring surprise guests to the stage. He just might be steering the Regal Empress by the time we get to Jamaica. Official Site
Chubby Carrier & The Bayou Swamp Blues Band see 2002 video (RealPlayer)
The supercharged showman has a hot new CD out titled "Take Me To The Zydeco," along with a larger and more powerful band. Working on a Carrier family musical documentary this year, Chubby is one who never sits still. After the ship sails from Tampa Bay on Superbowl Sunday, it's going to be like Mardi Gras Week with Chubby and the band on board. Official Site
Lil' Ed & The Blues Imperials
One of blues' most unique and animated slide guitar masters, Lil' Ed has been known to walk on his hands around the pool deck, play drums until sunrise and swim with the Stingrays at Grand Cayman, all in one day of cruise activities. The Blues Imperials are back to their original lineup, once called the world's best house-rocking band. Official Site

John Mooney
When it comes to old-fashioned delta bottleneck guitar, no-one plays with more intensity than John Mooney. He sends acoustic blues lovers into euphoria with his "Son House" inspired vocals layered over his "Professor Long Hair" taught rhythms. Better than a penthouse balcony on Bourbon Street overlooking Fat Tuesday's parades. Official Site

Rev. Billy C. Wirtz
Sailing direct from his First House Of Polyester Worship, the Rev has just released his 7th CD, Best Of The Wirtz: 15 Years On The Road With A 77-Inch Pianist. A great show to see up-close, this entertaining left-of-center boogie woogie musician will most likely make you part of his performance. AMEN! Official Site

 
James Armstrong
This emerging west-coast blues star has garnered 2 WC Handy Award nominations for 2001, including "Song of the Year" for "Pennies and Picks." Slowed by a devastating physical attack 4 years ago, James has overcome the hardships and now has "Got it Goin' On" aboard The Legendary Rhythm & Blues Cruise. Official Site

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