Introducing: Spoonful of Blues
During the pandemic, when most government offices were shut down, I was part of the volunteers who braved the virus and went to work to man the phones. The building was quiet. There was no one in our wing, and then the phone rang. One afternoon, our office received a prank call from a person who may have been mentally challenged. When I answered, he acted as if I were on an old-fashioned push-to-talk Army radio. The conversation went like this:
- "This is Tyrone Witherspoon for a comms check. Over."
- I played along, responding, "I read you 5 x 5, Tyrone. How do you copy?"
- He replied, "I read you the same. Spoon out!" and hung up.
I laughed for twenty minutes. That moment stayed with me, and I often wondered what blues name I could call myself if I succeeded in my goal of becoming a proficient blues guitarist. Blues musicians are often known by funny names like Muddy Waters, Howlin’ Wolf, Little Walter, Big Bill, Mississippi John, Blind, Big Mama, etc. What if I called myself Spoon?
When I decided to start making music, I knew I needed a name that would reflect my passion, sound, and soul. In the past two years, I have moved from just being called Spoon to creating a brand. May I introduce the name of my band, “Spoonful of Blues”. Here's why:
First and foremost, my name pays homage to the deep, rich history of blues music. A genre that has roots in the African American experience, blues is a powerful storytelling medium that channels the raw emotions of hardship, resilience, and joy. The essence of blues lies in its ability to express the most genuine human experiences, and that’s exactly what I aim to do with my music.
"Spoonful" itself is a nod to the legendary blues song by Howlin' Wolf, which was later covered by iconic bands like Cream. The word represents a small but potent measure, much like the intense emotions and impactful stories I deliver through my songs. Just a spoonful of blues can evoke a flood of feelings and memories.
Moreover, my name symbolizes the idea that while life can be filled with struggles, ( I know) a little bit of the blues can make it all bearable. Just as a spoonful of medicine can bring relief, a spoonful of blues can soothe the soul and bring people together. I want my music to be that comforting, healing presence in the lives of my listeners.
At Spoonful of Blues, I strive to stay true to the roots of the genre while adding my unique twist. My sound is a fusion of traditional blues elements with modern influences, creating something fresh and exciting for my audience. Whether you’re a lifelong blues enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, I invite you to join me on this musical journey.
So, grab your favorite beverage, sit back, and let Spoonful of Blues take you on a soulful ride. I promise it’ll be an unforgettable experience.
Stay tuned for my upcoming shows and releases, and thank you for being part of my blues family!
Finding joy with a Spoonful of Blues.
