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[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E177]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
IN RECOGNITION OF JOE BONAMASSA
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HON. ROBERT J. WITTMAN
of virginia
in the house of representatives
Wednesday, February 12, 2020
Mr. WITTMAN. Madam Speaker, Joe Bonamassa is one of the most gifted,
talented and accomplished singer, songwriter and guitarists in modern
day blues. Blues is a quintessential American musical art form and Joe,
throughout his life, has embraced and excelled in his pursuit of
mastering this music. Joe, in exhibiting his extraordinary talents at
the very early age of 4, was blessed to have his parents, Len and Debra
Bonamassa, do everything possible to nurture and develop Joe's
undeniable talent. Joe met the blues legend BB King after his mother
received a call asking him to be the opening act for a concert
headlined by King. Joe's incredible talent so impressed BB King that he
was asked to continue as the opener and did over 20 shows with King by
1989. Len and Debra made significant sacrifices to help Joe realize his
potential, including engaging Danny Gatton to mentor and train him.
Len, who owned a guitar shop with his wife and a musician himself,
cultivated not only Joe's interest in music but also his love of
guitars. It is that connection with the guitar that is evident in all
that Joe pursues in the world of music. He is an avid collector of
guitars and amplifiers and is a subject matter expert on both the
history and the mechanics of these instruments. He graciously shares
his extensive collection of guitars and amplifiers with the public at
one of the greatest guitar collections in the world--Nerdville,
California. The ``Bonaseum'' as it is sometimes called displays some of
the most historic and iconic guitars and amplifiers in the history of
modern music.
Joe has released 13 studio albums and a fantastic series of live
albums and DVDs that capture the essence of what makes him
extraordinary, which is his ability to connect with folks before a live
audience. His incredible talent and the phenomenal musicians he selects
to play with him make for an unparalleled experience for his fans. Joe
has pioneered a different way of doing business in the music industry.
Not satisfied that he couldn't perform his music the way he wanted but
the way the music industry dictated in a ones size fits all mentality,
Joe broke the mold and did things his way. He took a big risk in
developing a new business plan for his musical enterprise and was not
sure at the time if he would survive in the music industry. He has
persevered and now prospers in performing his craft the way he believes
is best. He saw that there is a connection between recording and live
performances and has revolutionized the industry by developing and
implementing a business that connects studio recording, live
performances and booking his own shows. He has focused on playing
smaller venues where the experience matches his style and magnitude of
his performance. He has performed for over 30 years and continues to
practice relentlessly and work incredibly hard at his craft. Every day
he wakes up he is excited about the guitar and is equally thrilled to
play it. Joe is one of the most thoughtful, caring and passionate
artists in the music business. He has done a tremendous service to the
world of blues music by creating the Keeping the Blues Alive
Foundation. This foundation each year brings together some of the best
blues artists on the planet to share their talents with folks in a
close, intimate setting. This connection with music fans is a great
opportunity for both emerging and established artists to enjoy playing
in a small venue and to raise money for a great cause. The Foundation
awards grant money to extend the reach and value of the musical
experience, especially in schools. Joe is extremely accessible, humble,
and infinitely committed to encouraging others to pursue their musical
interest just as his mom and dad from childhood. Our nation truly
values the efforts and contributions of Joe Bonamassa to the world of
music and his efforts to preserve guitar history and to inspire others
in their musical pursuits.
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