On Saturday, ‘the biggest local blues event’ in recent memory will showcase bands at Saugatuck’s Sand Bar Saloon to raise money for the bluesman, who’s battling cancer. Details at Local Spins.
Community Support for a Bluesman: James Reeser & The Backseat Drivers on stage. (Photo/Derek Ketchum)
West Michigan blues harmonica veteran James Reeser Dearborn, a native of Chicago, describes his band’s music as “harp-driven, swing guitar-fueled” and “oiled in traditional first-generation electric blues.”
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Inspired by the likes of Junior Watson and William Clarke, Reeser and The Backseat Drivers have brightened stages across the state with their bracing brand of blues for years, even representing mid-Michigan at the 2019 and 2023 International Blues Challenge in Memphis.
But there might not be a more important show than the one taking place this weekend in Saugatuck.
Five other Michigan bands – and some surprise Chicago blues guests – will join Reeser and band for “what might be the biggest local blues event in recent history.”
James Reeser Dearborn (Courtesy Photo)
The star-studded lineup featuring Crossroads Resurrection Blues Band, Weezil Malone, Fast Hands Trio, Robby Jewett Experience and Joe Johnson & the Bluebacks will assemble at the Sand Bar Saloon for a heartfelt cause: raising money for the bluesman and his wife, Kathy, to cover their expenses as Reese battles prostate cancer.
Dearborn (Reeser), of Saugatuck, was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2019 and chemo treatments eventually left him “tired and feeling strong side effects,” said event organizer and drummer Daniel Mish, noting that physicians have now recommended a priority clinical trial for further treatments.
“Throughout this journey, inconsistent insurance payments, loss of work and all those expenses not covered by insurance have taken their toll. In addition, this new clinical trial will be very expensive,” Mish related.
“James has always been there for his community, so the Backseat Drivers are asking that community to find a way to help support James and Kathy.”
Crossroads Resurrection: One of Saturday’s performers. (Photo/Derek Ketchum)
Grand Rapids-area guitarist and singer Weezil Malone, aka Larry Fitzgerald, said he immediately jumped on board when he learned of the benefit.
I was calling and texting to let everyone know I want in. James and I came up on this journey together,” said Fitzgerald, who just released a new Weezil Malone Band album titled, “Desert Drive-In.”
“There’s been times I’d be down or excited and I could share it with Jim. He started out on guitar, so we could share that, too. …. I am honored, deeply, to be Jim’s friend and help however I can.”
Fitzgerald added that he’s “really glad” to see so many musicians stepping up “to help one of our own. To me, it’s an endorsement of that family feeling.”
The benefit begins at 2 p.m. Saturday (March 11) at the Sand Bar Saloon, 141 Butler St. in Saugatuck. While there will be no cover charge, attendees are encouraged to donate to the James Reeser Health Fund.
Fans can also contribute online via GoFundMe.com here. As of Monday, more than $10,000 toward a $70,000 goal had been raised thus far.
LISTEN: James Reeser & The Backseat Drivers, “Kickin’ You Out”
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