D.J.: What is the advantage of having "field recordings" of these bluesmen on the album, Ruff Stuff?
T.O.: Field recordings are special in regard to the fact that the artists are recorded in their own element.
D.J.: Have you had the chance to write any books on your blues experiences or relationships, or do you recommend any books that you found particularly helpful in your blues studies?
T.O.: I have not written a book on my own, but I am beginning to prepare a biography on the Grey Ghost. Then, I want to do a book on Texas Blues. As far as recommendations go, Peter Guaralnick authored some books. He wrote a biography on Elvis Presley and another one on "The lost Highway," Howling Wolf and also, Hank Williams. Stomping the Blues by Albert Murray is another good book.
D.J.: Who was Joe Turner?
T.O.: (chuckles) There are several Joe Turners. Big Joe Turner, who did Shake, Rattle and Roll, who was a bartender in Kansas City, became a real pioneer of rock and roll and rhythm and blues. Another Joe Turner, known among the white race, was the man who they were afraid would sneak in their house and sleep with their wives or is known as the "backdoor man." He's considered a threat.
D.J.: Would you say that blues and jazz are "cousins" and related in that manner or would you say that blues IS a form of jazz? Did blues come along before Jazz?
T.O.: Blues came along before jazz. Blues came out of the West African field singing and used some influences of gospel music. Jazz is a more sophisticated combination of ragtime music, which Scott Joplin is considered the father of. It draws influences from blues and from the Carribean that came in from New Orleans. It also has strong African roots. Also, Jazz was influenced by Jewish Klezmer music and gypsy music and Sicilian or Italian music.
D.J.: You are married to a sweet lady, MaryAnn Price, who is also a musician and singer. Tell us a little about her.
T.O.: I first heard her sing when she was with Dan Hicks and his Hot Licks. She was one of the Lickettes — (the gal on the left of the screen). I actually met her in 1989 and we developed a friendship. She is a world-class vocalist. She's been with the Kinks and Asleep at the Wheel, but she's on her own, now, and has a new album out, called Hot and Cole.
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