meet the bands
The Kings Of Blues
This year, we are beyond excited to bring the Kings of Blues to Guglionesi—a powerhouse band made up of legendary musicians who have dedicated their lives to the blues. These artists have played alongside some of the greatest names in music history, carrying forward the soul, energy, and tradition of the blues like few others can.
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Vasti Jackson is not just an extraordinary guitarist and singer but also a Mississippi Cultural Ambassador, known for his electrifying performances and deep connection to the blues. He has worked with icons such as B.B. King, Bobby Bland, and Z.Z. Hill and has earned Grammy nominations for his contributions to the blues and soul genres.
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Kenny “Blues Boss” Wayne is a master of blues piano and a 2024 Blues Music Award Winner. His career spans decades, blending boogie-woogie, jazz, and blues influences. He has shared the stage with legends like Etta James, Albert Collins, and Taj Mahal, making him one of the most respected blues pianists of our time.
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Waldo Weathers is a powerhouse saxophonist, best known for his time as James Brown’s sax player. His explosive style has also been heard alongside the likes of George Clinton, Bootsy Collins, and Phil Collins, cementing his place as a funk and blues icon.
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Russell Jackson is a world-class bassist who played in B.B. King’s band for over a decade. His deep, grooving bass lines have also supported artists such as Otis Clay, Matt "Guitar" Murphy, and Kenny Neal, making him a true blues heavyweight.
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Tony Coleman is a legendary drummer, having spent years behind the kit for B.B. King, Etta James, Albert King, and Buddy Guy. His powerful yet refined drumming style has been a driving force in the blues for over 40 years, shaping the rhythm of countless unforgettable performances.
Together, these musicians form an unstoppable force, bringing decades of blues history and experience to the stage. Their concert in Guglionesi will be a rare opportunity to witness living blues history in action—an experience not to be missed!
Vasti jackson
World renowned guitarist, and vocalist, Mississippi living blues legend, Cultural ambassador, 2012 Mississippi Musicians Hall of Fame inductee, and 2015 Albert King Lifetime Guitar Award recipient, Vasti Jackson is a powerful force in the world of music! With more than forty three years as a professional musician. As an artist, Vasti is known for sweat-drenched, soul-ripping live performances marked by some of the most stunning, and innovative guitar playing today. Vasti's stellar vocals, fiery guitar, and stage presence captures the audience, and leaves a lasting impression that celebrates the triumph of the blues, and the joy of rhythm that is soul satisfying to all that are lucky enough to experience his music.
Question: What does BB King, The Grammys, Harry Connick, Jr., Martin Scorsese, Wynton Marsalis, Dr. John, and Cassandra Wilson, have in common? Vasti Jackson!
Read More at https://www.vastijackson.com/bio_01.html
Sir Waldo Weathers
Sir Waldo Weathers is a powerhouse saxophonist and funk-blues icon, best known for his years as a featured member of the legendary James Brown Band. Dubbed "The Pope of Funk", he was part of Brown’s electrifying performances from 1993 to 2005, bringing his fiery saxophone solos to audiences worldwide.
With a career spanning over five decades, Waldo has played with some of the greatest names in music, including George Clinton, Bootsy Collins, Phil Collins, BB King, Al Green, and Little Richard. His signature style fuses deep blues roots with hard-hitting funk, making him one of the most dynamic horn players of his generation.
In recognition of his contributions to music, he was knighted in 2012 in Germany, earning the title "Sir Waldo Weathers." Whether leading his own bands or sharing the stage with legends, he delivers an unforgettable performance, keeping the spirit of funk and blues alive.
Kenny "Blues Boss" Wayne
A true legend of blues and boogie-woogie piano, The Blues Boss was inducted into the Boogie Woogie Piano Hall of Fame on August 9, 2017, at the Arches Piano Stage during the Cincy Blues Festival in Cincinnati, Ohio. In 2023, he was honored with the prestigious ‘Bobby Blue Bland’ Lifetime Achievement Award from the JUS BLUES MUSIC FOUNDATION in Atlanta, Georgia.
Hailed by Living Blues magazine as “an artist bringing the piano back to the front ranks of contemporary blues,”Kenny has established himself as one of the leading modern blues pianists. A 2006 Juno Award winner, he is also a multi-time Maple Blues Award winner and the recipient of the 2024 Living Blues Magazine Award, 2024 Blues Blast Music Award, and the 2024 Blues Music Award. With his electrifying performances and deep-rooted passion for blues and boogie-woogie, Kenny “Blues Boss” Wayne continues to inspire and keep the tradition of blues piano alive.
Russell B. Jackson
Russell Jackson is a master of both acoustic and electric bass, with over five decades of experience in blues and beyond. A disciple of Willie Dixon, he was the first to introduce slap bass into blues, earning him the nickname “The Groove Guru.” Born in Memphis, Russell honed his craft in Chicago, playing with Otis Clay before being recruited by B.B. King. He spent seven years touring the world as part of the B.B. King Orchestra and over the years, he has also worked with Albert Collins, Kenny Neal, Matt "Guitar" Murphy, Luther Tucker, and Long John Baldry, among many others. As a founding member of Silent Partners, alongside Mel Brown and Tony Coleman, Russell helped shape a signature blues sound that continues to influence artists today. The group reunited in 2021, releasing Changing Times (2022), which topped the blues charts and earned multiple award . Russell also teaches workshops and masterclasses worldwide, sharing his deep knowledge of blues bass. and ensuring that his groove- driven legacy lives on.
FULL BIO on https://russellbjackson.com/bio
Tony Coleman
Tony Coleman is a legendary blues drummer, best known for his 29-year tenure with the B.B. King Band, where he laid down the groove for the King of the Blues himself. With a powerful yet nuanced style, Tony has been a driving force behind modern blues drumming, blending deep soul, funk, and blues rhythms into an unmistakable sound. Over his storied career, he has played with some of the greatest names in blues and beyond, including Albert King, Etta James, Bobby “Blue” Bland, Otis Clay, Freddie King, Buddy Guy, and Keb’ Mo’. His drumming can be heard on countless classic recordings, and his dynamic stage presence has made him a favorite among musicians and audiences alike. As a founding member of Silent Partners—alongside Russell Jackson and Mel Brown—Tony helped shape a signature blues sound that continues to influence generations of artists. Beyond performing, Tony is a dedicated educator and mentor, conducting masterclasses and workshops worldwide. Whether on stage, in the studio, or behind the scenes, Tony Coleman remains one of the most respected and influential drummers in the blues world today.
Stef Rosen Organ Trio
Born and raised in a small village in the north Italian mountains, musically grown between Chicago and Berlin, Stef Rosen is considered one of the most innovative and genuine blues players that have emerged in Europe in the recent decades. The music of his Organ Trio is soulful, inspired by the sounds and voices of the early 70s, from Bobby Blue Bland to Albert King. Awarded artist and sound engineer (nominated for Album of the Year next to legends as John Mayall, Joe Bonamassa, and more), he spent the last 10 years touring and playing his music around the World..from New York to Beijing, Moscow to Seoul..his voice is a sweet treat for your soul
Beverly Skeete
Beverley Skeete is probably best known for being the lead singer in Bill Wyman's 'Rhythm Kings' for 20 Years. In that time the 'Rhythm Kings' recorded over ten albums. She can also be heard on the albums of artist such as Tina Turner, Sir Elton John, and many more.
Beverley’s version of “Love Letters” featured one of the last guitar solos from George Harrison ( The Beatles)
Over the years Beverley has performed on films such as Evita staring Madonna, The Beloved which starred Oprah Winfrey, The life of David Gale starring Kevin Spacey and Kate Winslet, and The Hit man’s Bodyguard with Samuel Jackson and Ryan Reynolds where her recognizable sound is evident.
Noreda And Her Band
Noreda Graves is an American singer and songwriter from North Carolina. She is one of the most appreciated soul voices of America. Her sound is a mix of gospel, funk, blues and R&B.
Among her influences are James Brown, Aretha Franklin and the Clark Sisters.
In 2004 she attended an audition in Harlem, New York, to become the lead singer of the Harlem
Gospel Choir. She was quickly accepted and less than a week later she began her first tour with
Andre Rieu and the Johann Strauss Orchestra. In 2017 she decided to make a change and moved permanently to Europe. She founded her band in Italy "Noreda and Her Band" completing her first tour in Italy and later also in Germany. On February 18th 2022 she released “INTRODUCING NOREDA”, her first album containing the unreleased songs, SLAVE and TOO BAD.
London Blues Collective
London Blues Collective is a group of the finest musicians from the UK blues and contemporary jazz scene. Guided by the groovy soul of Kevin Leo and the silvery melodies of Francesca Confortini, the septet brings the blues tradition back with a twist, turning every song into a rollercoaster of rhythm and harmonies, an unexpected ride between the past and the present that blends old fashioned sounds with modern interpretations.
The band is composed by: Daniele Antenucci (drums), Joe Mac (piano), Costa Tancredi (double bass), Claudio Corona (organ), Matteo Paggi (trombone), Andrea Del Vescovo (trumpet), and Marco Marotta (sax)—delivering a rich, soulful sound that captures the true spirit of the blues.
Martín Burgez Blues Band
Born in Montevideo, Uruguay, and now a vibrant resident of Barcelona, Spain, Martín Burguez injects an electrifying energy into the blues world. Starting his musical journey at a young age, he immersed himself in the blues scene, eventually creating his own masterpiece – "Martín Burguez & The Jump Club." Drawing inspiration from legends like T-Bone Walker and BB King, his sonic palette explores West Coast and Jump Blues, paying homage to the golden era of Jazz, Swing, and Rhythm & Blues from the '30s, '40s, and '50s. In an illustrious career, Burguez has released three soul-stirring albums with El Club del Jump, gracing stages alongside international luminaries like James "Bogaloo" Bolden, Lurrie Bell, Jimmy Burns, Tia Carrol, JJ Thames, Slam Allen, Sax Gordon, and more. His musical journey extends beyond Spain, captivating audiences in Europe, Brazil, Chile, and his hometown, Uruguay. Beyond the stage, Burguez shares his blues expertise online, imparting the soulful art of "Blues Guitar" to eager learners worldwide.
Francesca Confortini Big Band
Francesca Confortini presents: Women in Blues – A high-energy tribute to the legendary women who shaped the golden era of blues.
From the gritty juke joints of the ‘40s to the smoky jazz clubs of the ‘50s, this London-based powerhouse band—featuring vocals, double bass, keys, guitar, drums, trombone, trumpet, and sax—celebrates the trailblazing voices of Big Maybelle, Alberta Hunter, Sarah Vaughan, Etta James, and Aretha Franklin.
The band brings together some of the finest musicians on the scene: Daniele Antenucci (drums), Joe Mac (piano), Costa Tancredi (double bass), Claudio Corona (organ), Matteo Paggi (trombone), Andrea Del Vescovo (trumpet), and Marco Marotta (sax)—delivering a rich, soulful sound that captures the true spirit of the blues.
THE SOUL STARS
This young and vibrant band captures the essence of their Italian roots while infusing their music with a universal appeal that resonates with audiences everywhere.
Carola Talia, with her magnetic and soulful voice, leads the group with passion and energy. Her commanding presence and emotional delivery have earned her a dedicated following, making each performance a captivating experience. Marco D'Onofrio, on bass, lays down the pulsating rhythm that forms the backbone of the band's sound. His skillful playing ensures a groove that keeps listeners entranced and moving to the beat. Francesco Cascitelli enchants with his masterful piano playing, weaving intricate melodies that captivate the heart. His talent on the keys adds a layer of depth and sophistication to the band's music. Lorenzo Fratangelo brings life to the Soul Stars with his dynamic drumming. His ability to create beats that are both powerful and nuanced is the driving force behind the band's energetic performances.
These talented musicians, all hailing from Guglionesi, have grown up together, sharing a deep bond and a common love for music. Their connection is palpable in every performance, making each show an unforgettable experience of authentic live music that will have you dancing and dreaming.
