September 28, 2001 - Charlotte, NC

Opening the evening's melodious smorgasbord was the Tommy Castro Band. Personally picked by B.B. King for the second consecutive year to open the show; and judging by his performance, it won't be too long before Tommy moves up in order of appearance. This San Francisco-based, soulful blues rocker is no stranger to the radio airwaves, and his charismatic performance and stage presence proved that B.B. still has an ear for talent. Tommy hastily won over the crowd during his brief set transcending the amphitheater into a smoky club powered by his hot-blooded stage presence. Touring in support of Guilty of Love, his latest and debut on 33rd Street Records, as well as The Essential Tommy Castro, a Blind Pig Records compilation, Tommy quickly won over the fans with his passionate playing and soul drenching vocals, and left the stage to a standing ovation and a new allegiance of fans.

Gerry Donnelly