At Baldwin over the summer we had the pleasure of hosting music historian and acclaimed guitarist Joey Leone, along with two other talented musicians, for a program called "The History of Blues in America." Over his long career, Joey has toured as a sideman guitar player for many high profile artists including Etta James, The Coasters, Sam & Dave, Wilson Pickett, Chaka Khan, and many more. The program was excellent and our patrons raved about it, they enjoyed his storytelling nearly as much as his excellent music. I believe he has performed recently at several other libraries in Michigan, and we hope to invite him back in the future. Working with his manager was a positive experience from start to finish. This is a description of the program they presented here: *"The History of Blues in America." A one hour program led by Joey Leone and two other musicians covering the history, influence and impact of American blues music through songs, stories and historical facts. The program is primarily geared for adult audiences, but we've found it's also popular with teens who are learning to play musical instruments. The content is all-ages appropriate. Joey also ties in his upbringing in Brooklyn NY, and how important the Public Library System was for his discovery, passion, and education about music and music history.* But they also offer these programs: **AM Radio Memories - Popular hits of the 50's, 60's & 70's, which of course involves insider stories and history as well*History of the Electric Guitar - how one instrument completely changed the direction of popular music *and also a follow up (Part II) of the History of Blues in America * Joey and his ensemble are based on the East Coast and do two Midwest tours each year. They will be in the region in July and October/November (2019) and are currently scheduling events. To inquire about booking him, contact: Chris Tedesco Farmers Market Music LLC Downtown Events LLC (917) 825-3360 farmersmarketmusic@gmail.com Joey Leone Blues Program Promo Video <https://farmersmarketmusic-1.wistia.com/medias/i24fiiji6d> References, Quotes and Testimonials from Libraries <https://www.dropbox.com/s/q6qi0g37rqlj0ra/Joey%20Testimonials%202.0.pdf?dl=0> Joey Leone Career Highlights <https://www.dropbox.com/s/oz6fuzmjocvlskv/JoeyLCSBOneSheet.pdf?dl=0> Maria Williams, MLIS Head of Adult Services Baldwin Public Library 300 West Merrill Street Birmingham, MI 48009 (248) 554-4651 http://www.baldwinlib.org Currently Reading <https://www.goodreads.com/user/email_signature_destination/9555257?utm_medium=reading_link&utm_source=email_signature> [image: Book Cover] <https://www.goodreads.com/user/email_signature_destination/9555257?utm_medium=cover&utm_source=email_signature> [image: Goodreads Logo] <https://www.goodreads.com/?utm_medium=gr_logo&utm_source=email_signature>Get your own email signature <https://www.goodreads.com/user/email_signature_instructions?utm_medium=gyo_link&utm_source=email_signature>