Compared to most, I've lived an unusual life, lived in a lot of places, and loved a lot of beautiful women. I’ve been a drummer behind some of the greatest musicians and musical groups in history.
And so begins the tale of Chicago drummer Jimmi Mayes, who for more than fifty years, served as a sideman behind some of the greatest musicians and musical groups in history. He began his career playing the blues in the juke joints of Mississippi, sharpened his trade under the mentorship of drum legends Sam Lay and Fred Below in the steamy night clubs of south Chicago, and hit it big in New York City behind such music legends as Tommy Hunt from the Flamingos, Marvin Gaye, and James Brown.
And this week Jimmi returns to
Mississippi on a book signing tour for his memoir The Amazing Jimmi Mayes: Sideman to the Stars.
Mayes lived
through racial segregation, the Civil Rights movement of the 1960s, the
integration of rock bands, and the emergence of Motown. He personally
experienced the sexual and moral revolutions of the sixties, was robbed of his
musical royalties, and survived a musical drought. He’s been a pimp and a drug
pusher, and lived to tell the tale when so many musicians have not.
The Amazing Jimmi
Mayes provides a trip through the
progression of music from the 1950s through present day and gives readers a
backstage look at the music industry from a unique perspective. This sideman to
the stars witnessed music history from the best seat in the house—behind the
drum set.
Jimmi will be signing his book at the
following times and locations:
- Tuesday,
February 18, 5:00 p.m. at Turnrow Books in
Greenwood
**Jimmi will be performing on the drums after this signing/reception** - Wednesday, February 19, 5:00 p.m at Lemuria Books in Jackson
- Saturday, February 22, from 2 – 4 p.m. at Loeb’s Clothing**A reception will follow at the Brickhouse Bar and Grill**
Comments