Luther "Badman" Keith isn't just a local bluesman.
For many years, he was a reporter or editor or columnist for the Detroit News. Now, he's the executive director of ARISE Detroit, which describes itself as a broad-based coalition of community groups that push for volunteerism and local activism to address pressing issues like illiteracy, high school dropout rates, crime, youth violence and blight.
That being said Keith, 64, has found time to release his fourth cd, "Bluesmen Are Kings."
It's an accomplishment for a guy who didn't pick up a guitar until he was in his 30s and didn't play his first professional gig until he was in his 40s.
“Bluesmen Are Kings is my way of paying homage to all of the great cats playing this music, known and unknown,” Keith explained. “It’s a spiritual experience, if not religious, when you really get touched by someone who can play the blues. That’s how I feel about the men who have this gift – Yes, Bluesmen Are Kings.”
Keith says the CD is a nod to the love of his home town and blues players on the Detroit blues scene.
“Some of these guys helped me learn how to play the blues and are keeping the blues alive, “ Keith said. “I want folks everywhere to know that we have some great bluesmen in Detroit.”
Keith and his band have played at various venues around town, including in PJ's Lager House, Nancy Whiskey Pub, Baker's Keyboard Lounge and Bert's Marketplace.
To buy his album, click here.
