One man pulled out a package and asked Honeyboy if he would mind signing some photographs for him. "I saw you play many years ago and took these pictures. I never thought I'd ever get the chance to have you sign them and to thank you for your music. I can't believe I got this opportunity. Wow! Thank you so much!"
They sold out of his CDs almost immediately. DVDs of a live performance sold quickly. Same with his book. He signed everything. I almost asked him to sign my paper for the event, but that wasn't why I was there. I just wanted to thank him for his music. I waited until everyone else had gone and then it was my turn.
"Thank you," I said. "Thank you for your music and for giving all of us a chance to see you play."
He smiled and patted my hand. "Aw, you're welcome. Thank you for coming."
I couldn't help myself. I leaned over and gave him a peck on the cheek. What I really wanted to do was put him in my pocket and take him home with me.
I may never get the opportunity to have him sign any of the photos I took of him, but I'll always have that moment. My only regret is that my children couldn't meet him, too.
I wish I could say that I made it back down for the second day of the Roots Fest, but sadly, I didn't. I physically couldn't do it. Again, I will always have the memories of the day, and a photo or two to remind me if should forget.
Don't let your chance pass you by. Check out Honeyboy's tour schedule (click on "Calendar") and catch him if you can.
Photos from the event are available on my original post.
Article comments
1 - HW Saxton
I saw Honeyboy Edwards two years ago at
the Blues Fest in Chicago. He was just
amazing.Especially considering the fact
that he was an octagenarian and that he
had recently been mugged and robbed near
his home at a check cashing place. He is
along with Robert Lockwood Jr one of the
last living links to Robert Johnson.