Robert Randolph at the New York State Fair
Robert Randolph, master of the steel pedal guitar, danced while he played with his bad at the New York State Fair tonight. Randolph’s performance reminded me that the last time I covered a steel pedal performance was by the late Leonard Stephens, Jr. of Syracuse, during Gospel Weekend a few years ago.
Erika Lovette
Fans, fellow artists, friends and family packed Sophistications Cafe in downtown Syracuse last night for singer Erika Lovette’s album release party. Her album is titled Love, Life and Everything In Between.
You can see Lovette performing one of the songs from her album at a previous Art & Soul Cafe here.
During last night’s gathering, she described the genesis for songs and various collaborations. She also mentioned that one of the songs was produced by Leonard Stephens, Jr. (who passed away last year).
Leonard Stephens, Jr.
My friend Jonathan Stephens III sent me this tribute to his cousin Leonard Stephens, Jr., who passed away last week. Leonard was a talented song-writer, producer and a master on the steel pedal guitar.