Mudcrutch Stories & Photos [Archive]

Danny Roberts

11-11-2007, 08:36 PM

Hey, Marion, I'll tell you another really funny one if you'll post the pic of us and Cordell at our signing party. I don't know how to post 'em here in this section of the Farm.

On our way out to L.A. the first time, when we drove out West in my '69 VW bus, we were cruisin' along in West Texas, on I-10, where it gets real close to the US/Mexico border. I was driving, and we had just burned a big fat-one of some really great, stinky herb. It was about 3 in the morning.
We came up on a sign in the middle of nowhere that said "Prepare to pull over". I was driving and when the rather large Mexican-American Border Patrol officer poked his head in the window and asked; "Whatcha boys smokin'?" To which I replied; "Marlboros, sir!" By this time, Tom was woken up by another of several Border Patrol agents that came piling out of the trailer they had set up by the road. They proceeded to take that VW apart, looking in the air-cleaner, spare-tire that was mounted on the front of the vehicle...everywhere. I had a cabinet built towards the back, on the ceiling of the van, which we had stuffed with peanut-butter, bread, cans of soup, and two of the individual rolls of Scotty brand tp, er, toilet paper. We had carefully opened up the rolls and stuffed two baggies of our beloved "Federal" (herb that a friend of mine in Tallahassee grew) hidden inside. We had carefully re-glued the paper wrapping so that you couldn't tell that they'd been opened. Thankfully, the Border Patrol dudes didn't open them! I was standing there while they searched the vehicle, with a bag of peyote-buttons stuffed down one boot and a vial of some sort of speed down the other, trying to converse with the officers so that they wouldn't think I was scared. I must've smoked a whole pack of Marlboros during that little episode. After they finally gave up their search, we headed down the road about 15 or 20 miles, then burned another big fat one, celebrating having not gotten nailed by the Authorities. As we rolled on through the night, we tuned in some radio-station on the AM radio that was in the bus, listening to this voice that sounded like it was coming from Heaven. It was Dolly Parton singing, "Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, Jolene...I'm begging of you, please don't take my man." I remember getting goose-bumps!

Mo Later, Danny Roberts

Marion

11-11-2007, 08:56 PM

Another great story! You guys are lucky you didn't end up in jail!

Sorry, I had to go find these photos. I must have missed them before.

This one is AWESOME!!! It's so clear!

http://www.mudcrutch.com/photos/data/583/Cordell_Kissing_DR061.jpg

You are very rock & roll with the rose on your shirt. Do you still have all of your hair? :003:

http://www.mudcrutch.com/photos/data/583/medium/DR_at_Signing_Partry062.jpg

Danny Roberts

11-11-2007, 09:07 PM

Yes, thankfully I've still got all my hair. It's just got a bit of gray in it and isn't so long right now. Oh, by the way, that shirt with the rose on it came from "Granny's" too. I might even still have that buried around here somewhere.

KansasPettyFan

11-11-2007, 09:25 PM

Oh, I am loving these stories! Elton John...you must have really thought you hit the big time. HAHA Glad you all didn't end up in jail with the other incident. :) Loving the pictures too!

So what are you up to now?

And here's to pack rats everywhere! LOL

Danny Roberts

11-11-2007, 09:41 PM

I'm living in St. Augustine, in North Florida, on a canal that goes out to the Intracoastal Waterway, otherwise known as the Matanzas River, which goes out to the Atlantic. It's beautiful here, it's our nation's oldest city, so it has a really historical vibe to it. My great-grandfather, Amos Beuregard Buford, was the lighthouse-keeper here in the 1890s, so I get a real cool feeling every time I drive by the place. I play music full-time, both locally and around the country and the Caribbean. I have a studio in my home and am constantly working on stuff. I've been getting over some problems that developed after I had arthroscopic sugery on both my knees a couple years ago. But I'm finally back on my feet again after a long haul.

KansasPettyFan

11-11-2007, 10:00 PM

Excellent! I'll speak for all of us here and say that we'd love to hear some of your music! Glad to hear you are back on your feet.

The Wild One, Forever

11-11-2007, 10:07 PM

Those are some great stories, and Im loving the pictures!

I too would love to hear your music.

Glad to have you here at the Farm!

Danny Roberts

11-11-2007, 10:23 PM

You know, or perhaps you don't, but after I left "Mudcrutch", I came back to Florida for a few months and kinda re-fell in love with the state. I missed the humidity and bugs! Ha! But then Denny Cordell called me and wanted me to come back to L.A. and put a band together with the late-great Phil Seymour, who was partners with Dwight Twilley. They sang backing vocals on "American Girl" & "Breakdown" by you-know-who. We quickly became a very-hot teen combo on the skinny-tie scene in LaLaLand. Phil Spector - yes, THAT Phil Spector, was hot for us and started coming to our rehearsals and gigs. This was while he was producing the "Ramones", so we got to go to the studio and hang out while he was mixing. He was the CRAZIEST mo-fo I have EVER encountered! But, one night at a rehearsal room in Hollyweird, I got him drunk on "Colt 45 Malt Liquor" while singing old "Ronettes" songs with him and Phil Seymour. It was funny as shit! I'm glad I lived thru THAT one!!! We played one gig, at the Hong Kong Cafe in LA's China-town, that was attended by most of TP & THB, The Knack, Robin Williams and a veritable plethora of celebutaunts. I even have a cassette of that show. Phil Seymour was a great singer!

WildflowerNJ

11-12-2007, 05:34 AM

Haha, Danny...I am picturing that time in NYC now!! I am loving these stories and I am so happy you are back on your feet again. Would love to hear your music, too...I have some friends who live in St Augustine...they love it.

Thank you for all these stories and pictures.....an exciting time that sure was and we love hearing about them....

Flower

11-12-2007, 05:53 AM

I love the storys. I'll have to read more later, I'm going to be late for work.

Mary Jane 49

11-12-2007, 06:05 AM

I really enjoyed reading those stories Danny, they must have been great times http://bestsmileys.com/butterfly/2.gif

Sweet Little Queen

11-12-2007, 09:18 AM

Nice storys, Danny! Thank you!

Lindorie

11-12-2007, 09:25 AM

Danny, you're great, thank you for stories! :)

Marion

11-12-2007, 08:30 PM

I am really enjoying your stories. It must have been an amazing time for a bunch of young men to be on the loose in LA living on peanut butter, soup and weed.

Wow, Phil Spector! That must have been a trip! Talk about an education! How long did you stay in LA?

I'm from Florida too and live with the heat, humidity and the bugs. I don't think I'd ever trade it. It's my home. But, I wouldn't mind a summer home in Malibu! LOL!

nurktwin

11-12-2007, 08:41 PM

lol marion, get your butt to malibu

Refugee

11-13-2007, 12:46 AM

Danny, I'm playing catch up here, but I LOVE, LOVE your stories! Please keep them coming.

PS - Thank you SO much for the great pictures! :003:

Magnolia

11-13-2007, 07:58 AM

I love these stories, Danny! Thanks so much for sharing them with us!!

Danny Roberts

11-13-2007, 08:08 AM

Just after I left the band, I went to Leon Russell's birthday party with Andrea Starr, another dear life-long friend of Tom's that I was dating, and met George Harrison. I was very cool and calm when I shook his hand, but inside, I was back in the 6th grade again. There was a bartender there that was drinking on the job - heavilly! When he became too inebriated to perform his duties anymore, me and another guy jumped behind the bar to keep things flowing. After a few minutes of hearing this guy's voice next to me, I said, "'Scuse me, but do I know you from somewhere?" He turns to me and says, " Hey dude, it's me, Cheech!" It was Cheech Marin, half of the hippie-comedy duo "Cheech & Chong. So, for the nexy 45 minutes or so, I'm crackin' up as Cheech was wise-assin to everybody that's comin' up to the bar. Meanwhile, I'm keepin' an eye on George Harrison and his wife Olivia, as I had something I wanted to say to George as he was leaving. When I saw them heading for the door, I hurriedly walked outside and kinda yelled: "Hey George, thanks for all your music over the years! You're one of the four reasons I play rock 'n' roll! Bye." He turned and waved, smiling. The sixth-grader in me nearly pissed myself! The next day, I was on the phone down at the Shelter offices and Tom and the guys were there and had heard about my meeting a Beatle. They got someone to cut into my phone call and were asking me all sorts of questions about it. It was quite cool as well as very funny.

Magnolia

11-13-2007, 08:22 AM

^ Ha Ha! Sweet story about George.

Refugee

11-13-2007, 01:54 PM

That is so cool! Meeting George and Cheech, lol.

KansasPettyFan

11-13-2007, 04:13 PM

I am thinking you could write your own book! Love the stories!

Echosoftom

11-13-2007, 04:18 PM

Wow! Danny, these stories are GREAT! I could listen to them all day. Too bad you don't have a picture of that red wine colored kinks-style velvet coat...I'd love to see that, lol.

jawallac

11-13-2007, 05:33 PM

Wow! Can't believe I missed the start of these stories. Thank you for sharing Danny, they're terrific. Share more as you're inspired! :)

WildflowerNJ

11-13-2007, 06:17 PM

Danny, meeting George!!! I love reading these stories and appreciate you sharing them with all of us....yes, you could write your own book. Thank you for these glimpses in your life...what an amazing time for you all....

Danny Roberts

11-13-2007, 07:35 PM

If anybody wants to upload the photo of the coat I bought at "Granny's", it's located at the same place as all the other pics! Hope you enjoy.
With Love, Danny Roberts

Refugee

11-13-2007, 07:41 PM

http://www.mudcrutch.com/photos/data/583/Danny_s_Granny_s_Coat_From_74-Cropped.jpg

Ooooo...very cool! I love the color! :heart:

Danny Roberts

11-13-2007, 08:02 PM

Here's the same Les Paul I was Playing at the "Signing Party" It's a 1952 that I've had since I was 12 years old. Same vintage as yerz trooly. Somebody post it. Same place as the last one. Thanks, Danny Roberts

Mudcrutch

11-13-2007, 08:04 PM

very nice

http://www.mudcrutch.com/photos/data/583/My_1952_Les_Paul_Cropped.jpg

Marion

11-13-2007, 08:05 PM

Very sweet story about meeting George. What a thrill that must have been for you. And I love how gracious George was. It must have meant the world to you.

I think it's so cool that you met Cheech! He always cracks me up! I bet he was a hoot to party with.

Love the jacket! It is a beautiful color!

Danny Roberts

11-13-2007, 08:10 PM

Hey Marion, Thanks fer eggin' me on. Glad you're enjoying this. I sure am! It's a gas to share old memories with friends. Yes, meeting George was in the Top-Five meetings in my whole life! He was my "Favorite Beatle". Quiet-One my arse! His songs were some of the greatest that the Beatles did, to me, that is.

KansasPettyFan

11-13-2007, 08:14 PM

Nice jacket and guitar! Thanks for sharing!

Danny Roberts

11-13-2007, 09:05 PM

Refugee

11-13-2007, 09:09 PM

http://www.mudcrutch.com/photos/data/583/Danny_s_BackStage_Pass_From_Sept_2nd_2006.jpg

It is colorful!

Echosoftom

11-13-2007, 09:10 PM

LOL! That coat is so cool Danny. Thanks for posting it Ref! :cool:

Very nice guitar! So Danny, what kind of music do you play today? What are some of the bands you like old or new?

George was my favorite Beatle too and his songs were some of my favorites. I listen to something of George's almost everyday. His music still holds up. I love it!

Refugee

11-13-2007, 09:26 PM

Danny, do you have any current photos of you that you would share with us? ;)

Danny Roberts

11-13-2007, 09:39 PM

Hey there Echosoftom,
That guitar was flown out to Hollywood for me by my late-brother Freddie and my sister Gail (Nadine) just in time for our signing party after having some work done on it. It was great to have my family there to witness our signing to "Shelter Records." I got scared as shit when, whilst playing bass, I looked over to watch as it took a dive, falling to the floor after having $1200 worth of work done on it! OUCH!!! But it survived alright. I still play it today. As for the kinda music I play now, I'd call it MetaphysicalNewAgeAlternativeAdultContemporaryWorl dBeatIndustrialSocioPoliticalCowPunkHonkyFunkRidde m'n'BluesRock.
As for some of my favorite artists, I'm really into an artist named Danny Delves. Smokin' guitar-slinger, songwriter, Vocalist-Extraordinaire, along with Prince (who I saw last New Years Eve at his club, 3121, in Las Vegas, BADDEST show I've ever seen in my LIFE!), Foo Fighters, Hendrix (who I saw in '68), Zep (who I saw at the same place, on their Led Zep II tour), The Yardbirds (who I saw in Lakeland, Florida in '67, with their new guitarist, Jimmy Page), James Brown (who I saw with my big brother Jack in Tampa in '67), the sorely overlooked Jellyfish (who I think produced two masterpiece albums and then disappeared), Toy Matinee (who did 1 CD and disappeared), along with punk band, Stevie Stilletto and the Switchblades, an incendiery outfit from up in Jacksonville, Florida. I could go on and on and on........Oh Yeah!!! Did I mention TP&THB? Natch. How could I NOT love those guys?!

Echosoftom

11-13-2007, 09:54 PM

MetaphysicalNewAgeAlternativeAdultContemporaryWorl dBeatIndustrialSocioPoliticalCowPunkHonkyFunkRidde m'n'BluesRock.

HAHAHAHAHA!

Hey, I saw Jellyfish live once back in the early 90's in Portland, Or. They actually opened for The Black Crowes. I remember they blew the crowd away. Awesome band! I always wondered what happened to them.

Danny Roberts

11-13-2007, 09:58 PM

I missed 'em, but they SHOULDA been HUGE! The King Is Half Undressed! My Gawd! I Wanna Stay Home....incredible POP music. They should re-form and try it again.

KansasPettyFan

11-13-2007, 10:11 PM

Hilarious description of your music! HAHAHAHA :icon_laugh::020:

Danny Roberts

11-13-2007, 10:29 PM

Yeah, I'm currently in the process of finishing up my newest project. It's gonna be called "InnaGaddaDaMondoDejaVoodooRamaA-GoGo" It's justa 'bout done. I'll try to keep ya'll posted and maybe slide you a coupla samples sometime soon.

Danny Roberts

11-13-2007, 10:52 PM

I'm part Cherokee, so most of my life, I've run from cameras! I think they steal my SOUL! But I'll dig around and see if i can find something presentable. This might take a while, so don't hold yer breath!

Danny Mac

11-13-2007, 11:10 PM

Danny,
let us know when you play some gigs in St Augustine. I'll try to check them out. I'm nearby in Gainesville. You ever "come around here anymore" ?

Danny Roberts

11-13-2007, 11:12 PM

This was a cool shot from when I was playing with the Derek Trucks Band yearz'n'yearz ago. My eyes were closed, so the photog couldn't/didn't steal my soul! We were playing in Sarasota, opening for Bob Dylan!

Somebody go find it and post it, Please???????????

Refugee

11-14-2007, 12:36 AM

Danny, I can't seem to find it. :085:

Hey, I'm part Cherokee too. Also part Scottish and Japanese, neat mix huh? LOL!

Echosoftom

11-14-2007, 01:42 AM

Danny Mac, that is a very cool avatar! :cool:

Danny R. l love the name of that newest project. Too funny.

WildflowerNJ

11-14-2007, 05:51 AM

Danny, thank you so much for these pictures! I love the coat, very cool!! Can't wait to hear some of your samples, too....haha, funny name, that is for sure!

We are enjoying your time with us so much! So glad to have you here at the Farm! :006:

Danny Roberts

11-14-2007, 09:53 AM

Hey Refugee, Sorry 'bout that. I must've screwed up the up-load, but it's now where everything else is, along with a coupla others you might find interesting. Post it when you get a chance.
Sincerely DeeArrggghhhh!!!!

wildgator

11-14-2007, 11:25 AM

Thanks for all the cool stories, Danny!

Marion

11-14-2007, 12:10 PM

I found them. Here you go. Very nice!

http://www.mudcrutch.com/photos/data/583/Pre-Mudcrutch_Danny.jpg

http://www.mudcrutch.com/photos/data/583/DanBobPic1.jpg

WildflowerNJ

11-14-2007, 01:48 PM

Very nice indeed!!! Thank you for these pictures, Danny...and Marion for posting them......

Refugee

11-14-2007, 02:11 PM

Those are great shots, Danny! I love that last shot. :)

Mary Jane 49

11-14-2007, 03:08 PM

Thanks Danny, I love that last shot too, very atmospheric!

Echosoftom

11-14-2007, 03:27 PM

Danny, those are great pictures! Thank you so much! We're all really diggin' your stories. It's a blast to chat with you. :)

surfnburn

11-14-2007, 03:36 PM

Wow....I love your photos, Danny. Thanks so much for sharing your stories. How long did you play with the Derek Trucks Band? It sounds like a great show.

AmyLou

11-14-2007, 05:12 PM

I'm living in St. Augustine, in North Florida, on a canal that goes out to the Intracoastal Waterway, otherwise known as the Matanzas River, I play music full-time, both locally and around the country and the Caribbean.

This is so cool! I have a place in Flagler Beach and we're always looking to hear some good music! Do you have a website or can you post on here when you are playing in the area? I'd love to come and hear you... who knows? I've been known to entice Marion to come on out this a ways too! :)

wild1forever

11-14-2007, 07:20 PM

Wow, how have I missed this thread for so long?! :confused: Danny, I'm greatly enjoying your memories and photos!

Patty Petty

11-14-2007, 07:21 PM

I read through this thread yesterday but didn't have time to comment.
Welcome Danny.. and I echo everyone's sentiments... thanks for the stories, they're GREAT! Thanks also for pictures! Love 'em!

Marion

11-14-2007, 07:36 PM

It's a date AmyLou! You won't have to twist my arm very hard at all!

Danny Roberts

11-14-2007, 07:39 PM

Hey guys,
Sorry for stirrin' up a little ca-ca, but a man's gotta do what a man's gotta due! I played with Derek for 21 months on the road, all over the US and Canada. Try being the "other guitar-player" with Derek night after night! My very first gig with him was up in Toronto, no rehearsal, and it was shown across the entire country live on the CBC! He blew my face off that night and every night. We opened for Dylan a few times and he would get young Derek (12 yrs old at the time) up to play with him. If you could've seen Dylan's face the first time Derek started to solo, you'd know just how great a moment it was. He just turned around with the biggest grin and started applauding as Derek brought the house down and the people to their feet! It was truly one of the coolest things I've ever seen. Thanks fer Ya'll's support, Danny Roberts

Iwazzabadboy

11-14-2007, 07:39 PM

Danny,
Thanks for all the GREAT stories/posts.My wife and I came down from Minnesota for the Gainesville show last year and made a 3 day Fall trip out of it.Since we are Lighthouse lovers and always include a Lighthouse in our travels we scooted over to St.Augustine Lighthouse for a day.Pretty cool your Great Grandpa Amos was the Lightkeeper years ago.They have done a wonderful job restoring it and keeping it in nice shape..The view from the top was incredible..thanks again for all your stories/posts,,Steve

honeybee43

11-14-2007, 08:13 PM

Those are some hot photos

Starfish

11-15-2007, 06:53 AM

Wow, I take off for a week and miss everything! Welcome Danny, and thanks for sharing your stories and photos!

Nancy

WildflowerNJ

11-15-2007, 06:56 AM

Hey, Danny, I missed Derek when he played in NJ not that long ago. He is amazing!! I did get to see him when he was on tour with Eric Clapton...and then with the Allmans when they opened for TPATH at Camden. I can just imagine Dylan's face at hearing Derek!! Haha!!

We appreciate all these stories from you and the pictures....and we are all so happy to have you at the Farm.

Beth

Danny Roberts

11-20-2007, 02:19 AM

We played at a place in Winter Park, Florida, called the "Back Door". We concentrated on getting the original material really tight, playing two shows a night for two weeks. On the very last night, TP, me and about 7 or 8 other people climbed into that same VW and proceeded to break out 5 joints, which we fired-up at the same time. Then I noticed that there was one guy that nobody knew. I still think that he set us up. Just then, I saw an un-marked Winter Park Police car turn into the parking lot. I told everybody to wait until the car went by and then get out and walk away, which everybody did, except for the one guy that nobody knew, who took-off running, never to be seen again. Then three more marked Winter Park Police cars came screeching in, surrounding the bus from all angles. I tried to just nonchalantly walk around to the side door and calmly lock it up as about 6 or 7 officers walked up. One asked me; "Sir, is this your vehicle?" I looked at him and said; "Sir, all you're gonna find is what's in the ash-tray and on the floor, honest." By this time a large crowd from the club had gathered to watch. The officer said; "Open up the vehicle." When I opened-up the van, it was like something from a "Cheech & Chong" movie, with smoke just billowing out of the van and into the cops faces. One cop radioed back to headquarters; "Yep, we've got ourselves a smoke-house." They found the 5 roaches in the ashtrays and on the floor, like I told them. They all gathered around, trying to see if there was enough evidence to make all the paperwork worth it. Then, they radioed in all my info, to see if I was wanted for anything, I guess. While waiting for the check to be run, I pleaded with the head cop, telling him that we were leaving for California the next day and swearing on a Bible that we'd never come back to Winter Park or Florida, for that matter, ever again. My record came back clean, so they huddled for a few minutes, then told me to go back in and finish-up our gig and get out of town. Little did they know, but there were two ounces of "Federal" behind the front passenger's seat and all sorts of goodies in the glove-box. But they didn't even bother to search any further after they found the roaches where I told them they would be. Whew!!! That could've changed everything, y'know? We went in and proceeded to play an especially spirited set, playing everything about twice as fast as normal, to a crowd that had watched the whole thing transpire and were happy for us. We left Winter Park that night, being very careful on our way out of town.

Flower

11-20-2007, 05:54 AM

Someone was watching over you. yikes

wildgator

11-20-2007, 08:06 AM

Oh my Gosh! Trouble just follows that VW van! LOL!

Danny Roberts

11-20-2007, 03:31 PM

Yep, yer right! That's why I eventually drove that VW out into the woods in the middle of the night, dug a large hole , drove that bus for the very last time down into it's final resting place, SHOT IT, SET IT ON FIRE and BURIED IT! I then walked back out to the highway, stuck my thumb out, and caught a ride with a family of gypsies almost all the way home.
Danny Roberts (I'm laughin' to keep myself from cryin'!)

Marion

11-20-2007, 06:46 PM

Danny, it sounds like you needed to step away from the weed! :033: That's quite a story!

Here are the photos you asked me to post. Cool line up at the Whiskey!

http://www.mudcrutch.com/photos/data/583/medium/20_Year_Old_DR_Mudcrutch_Shot_Cropped_2.jpg

http://www.mudcrutch.com/photos/data/581/lat8777.jpg

http://www.mudcrutch.com/photos/data/583/Pre-Airbrush_MudcrutchHiRes05Crop.jpg

Here is one from me. I've been to the Whisky. It's a cool old place. This photo was taken last year. You can feel the history there.

http://www.mudcrutch.com/photos/data/2/medium/scan0018.jpg

WildflowerNJ

11-20-2007, 06:48 PM

Hey, great photos, Danny!...and I took that last one, ha!! Yes, a few friends went out to CA last year. I love seeing that place....lots of history there.

Thank you, Marion for posting these......

KansasPettyFan

11-20-2007, 06:57 PM

Nice pics! Thanks for sharing!

Pettyjunkie

11-20-2007, 08:01 PM

Great stories Danny! Wow you guys got lucky that night!

Aimee Wilbury

11-21-2007, 07:10 AM

I like these stories. I'm laughing hard, which I rarely do. :)

Raelin

11-22-2007, 09:44 AM

Welcome to the farm Danny! Holy cow, how did I miss this thread?? I love all your stories and the pictures! It's so nice to have you here!:cool:

Danny Roberts

11-22-2007, 04:57 PM

A Thanksgiving Day Story About Mudcrutch That’ll Warm Your Heart

The Pimp, the Ho, and the Cadillac

By Danny Roberts

We were at the mid-way point on our “Farewell Florida” string of gigs we were playin’ before headin’ out to LaLaWood, California. We were playing at the “Performing Arts Center”, a club that was trying to be something more than just another “last call for anything” on Nebraska Avenue, in Tampa, Florida.
We decided to have a “G’bye Ya’ll” party afterwards, so we invited some girls back to the apartment that the club had provided us just a short drive down Nebraska Avenue, which was a street frequented by hookers of every persuasion, late-night pawn-shops that were there for you in case you really needed to pawn the title on that old Buick that’s been leaking oil on your dirt driveway for too long, as well as several all-night bottle-clubs, where if you couldn’t find whatever you were looking for there, well buddy, you just ain’t gonna find it.
The apartment was situated at the very back of one of those big-ass apartment complexes, the kind where if you take one wrong turn, you just might be driving around for hours tryin’ to find your way out. There was still construction going on right around our home-away-from-home, lumber all over the place. There were no curtains, no furniture, except for a few beds and mattresses. But it wasn’t that uncomfortable, being somewhat new and clean-enough that you didn’t worry ‘bout whether or not you’d be scratchin’ and itchin’ in the morning.
We had a few herb-sticks ready to fire-up, so we all sat down on the living-room floor, in a big circle as hippie-types were known to do back then. Probably still do now, somewhere.
So, we’re getting’ a good buzz, with the lights off, but there was a big light on in the parking lot, so we could see good enough to not drop the doobwah, when this big Cadillac pulls-up right in front of our apartment and shuts off his lights. We notice right away that there was a man and a woman inside it, obviously arguing about something. All of a sudden, both doors fly open and the guy and the girl jump out, yellin’ all sorts of nasty stuff at each other across the car. The guy is dressed in classic pimp-style threads and the girl is dressed like someone that you wouldn’t take home to meet your mother.
So he starts chasin’ her around the Cadillac, yellin’ the whole time, but she’s a good runner, quick and agile enough to stay out of the Pimp's reach. This goes on for about five minutes or so, when the pimp spots some two-by-fours layin’ close-by and goes over and grabs one. He starts chasin’ her around the Caddy again, stopping just long enough to take a swing or two at his girl over the Caddy, not carin’ that he’s dingin’ his ride. Hell, the way he was dressed, he’d probably go get a new one tomorrow anyway. This goes on for a few minutes, but the pimp’s getting’ tired out from swingin’ that piece of lumber, so he throws it aside and reaches into his pocket and pulls out a gun and points it at her.
About this time, we really started to worry. We didn’t want to see anybody get shot! Hell, we didn’t want to get shot ourselves, as we were still sittin’ on the other side of the living-room window, only a few feet away. The apartment didn’t have a functioning back door, for some reason, or a working phone, since bands are notorious for runnin’ up bad long-distance charges. Cell-phones hadn’t been invented yet, so you can scratch that idea. But we realized that the bathroom had a small window over the tub that opened up out to the back of the building, out of the Pimp’s field of vision. Randall, being the brave soul that he was, always ready for adventure and perhaps just wanting to get out of range of any stray bullets that might start flyin’, volunteers to crawl out the window to go call for help. We just need to boost him up high enough to get through the window, so me, Randall and Duke crawl over to the bathroom and then me and Keith boost him up and out the window.
We sneak back out to the living room to watch the action. By this time, he’d been chasin’ her around with the gun for a couple minutes, so he stops for a cigarette break. He puts the gun down on the hood of the Caddy, reaches into his coat for his ciggies and his Zippo and starts to light one up, when the girl runs up and grabs the gun right offa the hood of that Caddy! She points it at him, shakin’ as he’s sayin’ “No, no, you don’t wanna do that, girl!” He then walks straight up to her, she’s shakin’ so hard, it’s amazing the thing doesn’t go off, and he reaches out and slowly takes the gun away from her. She’s cryin’ and shakin’, so he just grabs her by the hair and throws her back into the Caddy, calmly walks back over to the driver’s side, gets in, starts the Caddy up, and drives away.
A few minutes later, beams of light start dancin’ down from the two Tampa Police Department helicopters that were circlin’ overhead, lookin’ for the Pimp’s Caddy, which was long-gone by then. Randall came runnin’ up shortly thereafter, tellin’ us all about his adventure tryin’ to find a pay phone. We all start talkin’ about what we had just witnessed and then go back into the apartment to chill.
Every once in a while I think back to that night and wonder about what ever happened to that poor girl, just tryin’ to make a livin’.

Refugee

11-23-2007, 01:05 AM

Whoa! :eek:

Echosoftom

11-23-2007, 04:28 AM

LOL! Great story Danny! Yeah, you can't help but wonder what happened to that poor girl.

Danny Roberts

11-23-2007, 06:13 AM

On our "Farewll Florida" string of gigs, we played the infamous "Flying Machine" in Ft. Lauderdale. We played with some Cubano Bowie-esque band at that gig for about a week, perhaps two weeks. They had a hot dwarf girl named Consuela who would walk around in the dressing-room we shared with them, and "service" the "members" of the other band right there with a bunch of sorta prudish boys from Gainesville looking on, or maybe actually trying not to. Al Kooper was booked there for two nights, with us opening the bill, so we got all excited about finally being able to hear him play all those classic B3 organ licks, like he did on those early Dylan songs. Well, he showed-up with no organ in sight and proceeded to play the loudest guitar I have ever heard, playing through 2 Ampeg SVTs at full volume! I thought I’d be bleeding from every orifice by the time he was done! Then he listened to our set, and passed on signing us to his new label, "Sounds of the South" saying he’d just signed this new band from Jacksonville – “Lynyrd Skynyrd”.
But then Tom and I hooked up with these two kinda-hot South-Florida girls who were driving a convertible something-or-other. I stole a couple bottles of Tequila as we were leaving one night and we drove to some empty lot near Michael Lembo's parents' place in Boca Raton. We drank too much too fast and stole a few kisses when the time seemed right, then drank some more, a LOT more. Then we got out of the car and started playing football with the empty Tequila bottle, getting louder as we continued to drink the second bottle I'd pinched from the "Flying Machine." The police came, once to tell us to hold down the noise, the second time to tell us that we'd have to leave. We were lucky that they didn't arrest us. When we left, it was sunrise, so by the time we got to town, we were turning various shades of green, so we had to pull into a bank parking lot, and QUICK, just as all the employees were arriving for work. Pretty soon, we're all hurlin' from both sides of this nice convertible as people arrived for their workday. That must've been a sight! You've gotta be careful with that Devil-juice Tequila, y'know?

WildflowerNJ

11-23-2007, 07:29 AM

I love reading these, Danny....I can just picture you guys back then, wild times, indeed....thanks for the sharing....:)

wild1forever

11-23-2007, 11:13 AM

You've gotta be careful with that Devil-juice Tequila, y'know?
LOL, that story reminds me of the comic who says that a bottle of tequila should come with bail money. :icon_laugh:

nurktwin

11-23-2007, 11:36 AM

oh yeah, the joys of being in a band!

Patty Petty

11-23-2007, 12:30 PM

***Every once in a while I think back to that night and wonder about what ever happened to that poor girl, just tryin’ to make a livin’.***

Sadly, she's probably either dead or living that same lifestyle just trying to hang onto dear life everyday... :eek:

Gator Girl

11-23-2007, 09:31 PM

Hey there Folks, I just posted my BackStage Pass from last September 2nd's big "Homecoming Show" that's featured in Tom's new DVD/Movie release. It was so much fun seeing Mike, Benmont, Ron and the guys! It was almost like Old-Home Week! Somebody post it. It's really colorful!
Somebody post it! You'll be glad you did!
Hey, Danny! I met you backstage here in Gainesville. I've got a couple of pictures of you from that night. Let me know if you want me to e-mail them to you.

I've still got my pass stored safely away along with all the great photos and other keepsakes from my mini-vacation. :003: What a special time it was to be in Gainesville....

Danny Roberts

11-26-2007, 03:30 AM

Hey Der GatorGirl,
Yes, most certainly and with many thanks I would love to get dem pics from U. It would make me happy. Bring 'Em On!!!lolol!!!
Be lookin' for a new story that you might find interesting in a Rock History kinda way that I still don't know how I found myself in the middle of it, but it's all true. If I'm Lyin', I'm Dyin'. Be spectin' it tomorrow or the day after.
Mo Later, DeeArrggghhhh!!!!!!!!!!!

Danny Roberts

11-26-2007, 05:57 AM

One Of My Best Phil Spector/Phil Seymour Stories

By Danny Roberts (Formerly of Mudcrutch)

In 1979, I was working with one of the best singer’s I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with, the late-great Phil Seymour. Phil was partners with Dwight Twilley, and when I say partners, I mean, Dwight wrote the songs, sang and played almost everything, and Phil sang and played everything else. They sometimes used other players, eventually, but they were a team. Their vocals were so Lennon/McCartney or Everly Brothers-like, that sometimes you can’t tell who’s singing what. Kinda like automatic-analog double-track effect. They were tight. They had a hit, 1975’s “I’m On Fire”, on the same label Mudcrutch was signed to, Denny Cordell’s and Leon Russell’s “Shelter Records”, which had studios and offices in Tulsa, Oklahoma and Hollywood, California. Tom and I were at the Shelter office in Hollywood, on – what else – Hollywood Boulevard, hanging out with Andrea Starr in the Publishing division of the company, when Dwight Twilley and Phil Seymour did the same thing that we had done just a few months earlier. They dressed sharp and brought their homemade demo to Andrea, which was the quickest way to get your first chance to make a good first impression. They came in, told Andrea that they’d come to Hollywood from Tulsa, and they were lookin’ for a record deal. Tom and me looked at each other real quickly, kinda like, “here’s these new boys, tryin’ to cut in on our turf”, y’know? They handed Andrea their reel-to-reel tape, said thanks and goodbye, and were out the door in around 5 minutes. They got a deal and had a hit in August of 1975. I saw them do it on “Dick Clark’s American Bandstand. That’s almost as good as playin’ on the “Ed Sullivan Show”.
Fast forward to 1978. I’m in Florida, playing some club gig somewhere in Central Florida, when I get a phone call from Denny Cordell, you know, THAT Denny Cordell. He cut to the chase and said, “I’m trying to put a band together for Phil Seymour, y’know?” I was wonderin’ if you wanted to come out and meet him, go into the studio with him and put a live band together with him. Are you up for it?” I said, “Book it.” We made all the arrangements to get myself out there a few days later and next thing I know, I’m landing at LAX. Simon Miller-Mundy picks me up and takes me to the infamous “Tropicana Hotel”, on the corner of Santa Monica Boulevard and LaBrea. The “Tropicana” also had the most incredible coffee shop, “Duke’s Diner”, where you could get a bottomless cup of joe and a bagel and cream-cheese for under five bucks and hang out and read the paper while watching something that looked a lot like some sort of movie goin’ on around you. The Ramones were staying at the “Tropicana” while I was there. They’d be out walkin’ down to the “Orange Julius” stand just up the street dressed in full “Ramones” regalia, black-leather jackets and high-tops in the middle of an incredible record-breaking heat wave. Besides the “Ramones”, the “Tropicana” also was the home of another of my favorite artists, Tom Waits. Me and my first wife, Debera, lived in the room directly over Tom’s. You could hear him playin’ piano or guitar and singin’ all the time. Sometimes, Ricky Lee Jones would come by. It was THE “Tropicana”.
So me and Phil Seymour hit it off real fast and we started-up a rockin’ little new-wave/skinny-tie band called, natch, “Phil Seymour and The Feel”. He and I spent a little time recording at “Shelter Records” studio, which was right next door to the office on Hollywood Boulevard, and then at “The Record Plant”. We’d go in and the first thing to get recorded was the drums. Phil was a great drummer, so he’d just sing the song to himself while cutting a perfect drum track. Then I’d go in and cut bass and guitars, with Phil finishing things off with a great vocal track, singing his own harmonies later. But it was a very quick process. Kinda like he did with Dwight. And then Phil decided that he needed to write some songs, something he’d never had to do during his years with Twilley. And it was something he felt that he had to do himself. He felt like he had something to prove. He wanted to get out from under Dwight Twilley’s long shadow.
So, about this time, I fly back to Florida and we pack-up all our worldly possessions into a Mayflower moving truck and 2 weeks later, me Deb and our feisty little Yorkshire Terrier named Malcolm drive out to Los Angeles. Malcolm was still young then and I still remember teaching him to fetch his leash when he wanted to go outside to answer nature’s call. He was good at travelin’. He’d ride with Deb for a few hours and then he’d ride with me. I’ll never forget that dog.
So anyway, where was I? Oh yeah, we got along great, with Phil constantly asking questions about TP. So Denny helps me set-up a little eight-track demo studio down at a big rehearsal warehouse called “ Little Buddy’s”, that in its former life had been your one-stop porn factory. My studio was in the projection booth, with the theatre being the vocal & everything else-room. We did pre-production demos of a bunch of songs that wound-up on his first solo album, named – and you guessed it – “Phil Seymour”. Phil had locked himself away with an acoustic guitar and paper and pen and written his first songs. They were really good power-pop. Phil wasn’t used to being the front-man after working with Dwight for so long. He would grab hold of the mic-stand and not let go. So, I’d run over and give him a playful kick in the arse and get him to start loosening up. He got better with every gig.
Phil Spector was at one gig we did, I think it was the “Whiskey”, and he immediately liked us, which usually means that he likes the singer, hell, I’m big enough to admit that, so he starts comin’ to our rehearsals. So we worked-up a few of his classics, a coupla “Ronettes” tunes and something else I can’t quite remember right now, must be the rum, bet pretty soon he invites us down to “Gold Star Studios”, the same studio where he had cut so many of his legendary “wall of sound” hits with the “Righteous Brothers, the “Ike and Tina Turner Revue” and the “Leonard Cohen”. He was mixing the new “Ramones” album, “End of the Century”, so he invited us to come over and watch him work. When we got there, we had to get frisked by his body-guard, I think his name was George or something like that. George would give you a little funny shrug of his shoulders and a smile, kinda like he was sayin,”Sorry guys, but I’m just doin’ my job. I know you’re probably not packin’ heat”.
So we go on in, Phil gives us a big greeting and then begins to play “Rock and Roll High School” at the loudest volume I’d ever heard before anywhere, and I’ve worked in a lot of studios and can handle loud. He kept playing it over and over, stopping long enough to yell at the engineer, who I think was Larry Levine, or to pick up the phone he kept hangin’ off the end of the console, with somebody just trippin’ that they had Phil phorkin’ Spector on the line. He’d pick it up and say, “Yeah kid, nothin’ but hits! Nothin’ but the greatest shit you’ll ever hear!” Meanwhile, we’re all sittin in a row of chairs directly in back of him and the engineer, and it’s SO Loud, I thought I was gonna start bleedin’ from every orifice any minute! Everybody’s cringin’ when Phil’s not lookin’, so after a while, I decide that I’ve had enough, so I put my fingers in my ears! A coupla minutes later, Phil turns and sees me, an index finger in each ear. He turns back around, stands up slowly, and starts yellin’ at his engineer while lifting both arms up to about shoulder height, tellin’ him to “Bring it down just a little bit, bring it on down a good bit!” The engineer does this and about a minute later, Phil turns and looks at me with a ‘Is this alright with you now?’ kinda look on his face. I pulled my fingers out of my ears and nodded my approval, Spector smiled and turned back around and got on with the show. After a while, he took a break, and everybody in our band left, so I went out and got a few of the quart-size bottles of “Colt 45 Malt Liquor” that I had picked up on the way. Then Phil Spector, Phil Seymour, and myself sat around a grand piano and got drunk on “Colt 45 Malt Liquor” , smoked a big joint and sang old “Ronettes” and “Righteous Brothers” songs the he had produced. But then he did the weird trip that he had done with the “Ramones”, he invited Phil Seymour back to his castle and winds up holding him prisoner for several days. Shortly after this whole episode, we did two nights at the legendary “Troubadour”, on Santa Monica Boulevard, which were sold-out. Phil couldn’t get in, due to fire regulations or some such shite, so this drove him nuts, not that he needed any help! So that kinda ended our “Phil Spector Era”. At least I can say that he never pulled a gun on me!

Echosoftom

11-26-2007, 06:33 AM

Danny , that's a great Phil Spector story. That is one bizarre man. :eek:

You've brought back lots of memories naming some of those L.A. hot spots. That city sure was alot of fun back in the day. You were subject to run into anyone in any of those little dives in West L.A. or Hollywood. Fun times. Thanks for the story.

Starfish

11-26-2007, 06:52 AM

Thanks Danny! Love the story. It must have been amazing to be in LA back then.

Danny Roberts

11-26-2007, 07:09 AM

Oh, and I kida almost forgot to tell you somethin' els ethat happened around this same time which pertains to this whole thing concerning Tom that has me perplexed. The first night that I'd flown into LAX to get a room at the "Tropicana" and meet with Phil Seymour, I got a call about an hour after I check into my room. It was TP, sayin', "Hey man, whatcha doin'? Wanna go to the "Roxie" with me?" He told me that it was a band made up of players from Dylan's "Rolling Thunder Revue", T-Bone Burnett, David Mansfield and some other dudes. They were called the "Alpha Band" and they were supposed to be great!
Tom came by and got me, I think he had a 'Vette or something sharp! We talked like in the 'old' days, just like everything was just peachy. We hung out with "Roger McGuinn", who was still drinking at that time. He was trying to get up and past a lot of people to go use the restroom, and when he realized that it would take forever for all these people to scooch their chairs in so he'd be able to get by, he said screw it and just jumped up on the three banquet-stle tabels which were connected and proceeded to do a soft-shoe dance down the entire length of the tables, where he hopped down and was never seen again that night. But I'll always cherish that night! that was the last time Tom called me and we hung-out together with one of the "Byrds", one of our biggest influences in "Mudcrutch". Tom took me back to the "Tropicana", where we hung-out for a little while, so he had to split. We talked about doin' it again sometime and shook hands, seeming like everything was cool. But that was the last time I ever saw TP act friendly towards me and I'll probably never know the truth! Somebody should tell FireFlyElfJohnson will probably have a number of baseless conspiracy theories, but they only help to get an interesting dialogue going.

wildgator

11-26-2007, 11:27 AM

Hey Danny - tell us a story about Mike. Pretty Please?!

Danny Roberts

11-26-2007, 03:18 PM

Honestly, I've got a good one that I'll share with you shortly, but I've got to finish mowin' the yard.

Mo Later, Danny Roberts

Gator Girl

11-26-2007, 03:57 PM

Just sent you an e-mail. Let me know if you got it. :)

Marion

11-26-2007, 09:00 PM

Wow Danny! Great stories! I don't think I could remember anything that happened 30 years ago so clearly!! Thanks for sharing. Wow, was Phil Spector ever sane?

Danny Roberts

11-27-2007, 01:10 AM

Yeah, like I said, I REALLY wish my memory wasn't so good. Trouble is, I remember things as far back as when I was about 10 months-old. You know, can't walk or talk yet, but I'd go try to tell somebody about nearly gettin' electrocuted by reaching into the back of one of those old oscillating fans from 1952, the year I was born. Nobody could understand what I was tryin' to tell them about, as I didn't yet know the language that everybody else was speakin' at the time. I'd been hearing both English and Czechoslovakian since day one, so it was a little confusing. I'd lay in my crib and wonder why it was that I couldn't step into somebody else's body and mind. Kinda makes you grow-up weird! OK, I know ya'll are gonna think I'm some nut-job, but if I'm lyin', I'm dyin'!
As for an interesting story about Mike, well, I'd have to put my thinking-cap on, as Mike was pretty-much about the most normal, down-to-earth person I've ever met. Except for just that one time........
I had just joined Mudcrutch and moved to G'ville. Me and Tom would hang-out at Jane's appartment, eating whatever food she had in the fridge, drinking Taster's Choice instant coffee, smokin' Marlboros and weed, listenin' to the Beatles, Stones, and whatever it was that the Beatles and Stones had been listenin' to. We'd always have guitars at least near-by, if not in our hands. We'd be plottin' our next gig, tryin' to think of things that would make it special. But the phone rings and it's somebody we didn't know all that well. They proceeded to tell us that they had a butt-nekkid Mike Campbell in their house and that perhaps we'd like to rescue him. Seems that Mike had ingested one of those mind-altering substances and decided to make like Nature-Boy and shed his clothes in the middle of a nice neighborhood in the middle of town! Luckily, the people who found him and took him in and wrapped him up in a sheet, knew the band and went out of their way to be understanding about it. So, we hop into the infamous '69 VW bus and go rescue Nature-Boy Campbell. That must've been some excellent whatever-it-was! We made him put some clothes on for the duration!
Aside from that one incident, he was pretty normal.
And yes, Denise, I did get yer E and wrote you back about it. And I guess I should tell you......You've Won A Trip For Two To.................I'll get back to ya 'bout that!

Mo Later, Danny Roberts

Danny Roberts

11-27-2007, 01:35 AM

I was just pokin' around a little bit and saw that Kevin DuBrow, lead-singer for "Quiet Riot", was found dead in his Las Vegas apartment. R.I.P. Kevin.
The last band that I was in before joining "Mudcrutch", for only a few months, as that's when the middle finger on my left hand was smashed when getting into the back-seat of a two-door on the way to a gig in West Palm Beach, was a band from Fort Lauderdale, with my big-brother Jack holdin' down the lead vocals, was called "Coventry", which had one Frankie Banali as our drummer. We'd affectionately named him "Gorilla Frank", as he played those drums like King Kong! I've got to try to get in touch with my old friend.
Sincerely, Danny Roberts

Danny Roberts

11-27-2007, 04:33 AM

Dear Everybody Who’s Cared Enough To Read My Stories And Write To Me

I just want to let you know that it’s been a blast being able to share my little stories that seem to have something to do with “The History of Gainesville Rock, ver.2”.
I’ve been trying to provide you with little bits of TRUTH about how the little rock band from Gainesville, Florida – Mudcrutch – had their fifteen minutes of life before turning into “Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers”. I originally started posting little stories and pictures that might’ve been interesting in a certain movie/coffee-table book that’s come out recently. But because of some ancient and stupid grudge, one so old I doubt even TP himself can hardly remember, unless I slept with somebody’s wife or girl-friend that I can’t remember. I kinda doubt that last scenario. These guys don’t even have it in them to realize that every thing I did from the moment I joined, to the moment I left, was what Webster’s New World Dictionary calls a; Catalyst, one who begins the ‘speeding up or, sometimes, slowing down of a chemical reaction by adding a substance which itself is not changed thereby’. Yeah, Catalyst, it’s got a nice ring to it, plus, I bet you can’t come up with another word that rhymes with ‘Catalyst’. That’s what I want my little ID badge of life to say on it, Danny Roberts, Catalyst.
So, what I’m tryin’ to say is this. Both Chapter One-Mudcrutch, (the coffee-table book) and the DVD/movie release of “Runnin’ Down A Dream”, are blatant and fully intentional, as well as a not very good attempt at, LIES, not so much by what they said or printed, but by what was NOT said or printed. And the poorly done air-brush job on that photo of Mudcrutch that’s in the movie. How does ANYONE explain that. If I was ugly as a billy-goat, I’d understand, but I did alright, if ya know what I mean? I will not be satisfied with any effing balderdash explanation that they’ve talked the movie’s director to issue. I already busted them for even thinkin’ about that! Come on Tom! Stand up for yerself and issue the man that took you on what you called, “the greatest trip of my life, really” a little better explanation than that shite! I won’t back down, either! Just me and TP in the same room, face to face, no BS!
For anyone that still cares enough to keep in touch, please feel free to write me at;

To contact click on Danny's name above and SEND AN EMAIL or SEND A PRIVATE MESSAGE

(danbobroberts@comcast.net) I feel like I’ve gotten to know a bunch of you and that I got to share some of what is, undeniably, my little chunk of Rock ‘n’ Roll History, or at least some good bar-room tales worth a few beers or somethin’, y’know?
Please try to understand where I’m comin’ from, OK?
Bleedin’ Sincerity, Ur Friend, Danny Roberts

Flower

11-27-2007, 09:56 AM

Mowing the yard?? We have frost here the temp was 26 when I woke up.brr
Danny you must live a good life. I mean to remember everything. I cant remember nothin. :rolleyes:

wildgator

11-27-2007, 12:37 PM

OMG! Mike running around naked in the middle of town...classic! Thanks, Danny!

Raelin

11-29-2007, 08:52 AM

OMG!! That story of Mike was to funny!! Thanks for sharing that Danny.

Pankie

11-29-2007, 09:36 AM

Nature Boy Campbell???

Too funny!!!

Danny Roberts

11-29-2007, 09:15 PM

Alright, first thing, everybody, me included, and now Charlie Souza as well, should read and arrive at their own view as to how it applies to my/our lil saga and occasional rants, of which there will be no more, and I PROMISE as much now, cross my heart. Me and Charlie Souza, the guy I looked up to as a young’n, have been swapping songs over the www for the last coupla days and are puttin’ a lil band together over the coming weeks with a certain drummer that you all know and love, so, that much, at the very least, has come outa this on a most positive level, again, one I never saw comin’ outa left-center field, y’know? So please forgive me of my sins or anything remotely close to ‘em, as this was and remains the most direct way of bouncing thoughts, ideas, memories, and, hopefully, the truth off of what I’ve found to be, a very interesting and diverse bunch of, as the bumblin' Dubyah would say, Folks, yep, folks. And that’s alright wit me and I hope it is wit U 2.
Thank you very much for yer time and understanding & patience. I know I can be a bit much some times, but it comes with and from the experiences I’ve partaken there-of, OK?

Most Sincerely, and I mean that, Danny Roberts (formerly of Mudcrutch)

Pettyjunkie

11-29-2007, 10:16 PM

Nature Boy?! LOL Great story Danny!

Danny Roberts

11-29-2007, 10:27 PM

Not to re-iterate mice elf, but, Guess Who Our Drummer's Gonna Be?
DeeArrgggHHHH!!!!

Mudcrutch

11-29-2007, 10:44 PM

Stan Lynch?

lol couldnt resist.

Echosoftom

11-29-2007, 10:49 PM

Okay, if I had to just guess, I'd say, Stan Lynch too(?)

Danny Roberts

11-29-2007, 10:49 PM

U GotIt!
DR

Echosoftom

11-29-2007, 10:52 PM

Wow! I was just goof guessing. That is SO cool!

Danny Roberts

11-29-2007, 10:54 PM

Ain't it? We just tawked fer like, two hours and had the coolest time! No phone-sex though, darn! LOLOLOLOLA!!!
DR

The Wild One, Forever

11-29-2007, 10:57 PM

Thats really cool Danny!

Im getting all caught up on your stories, and I love the one about Mike, its too funny.

Echosoftom

11-29-2007, 10:58 PM

No phone-sex though, darn!
DR
Don't cha just hate when that happens? LOL!

Danny Roberts

11-29-2007, 11:19 PM

I shite u not. This is totally outa nowhere 2 somewhere really most excellant, if I do Say so mice elf! Naw I can't and Won't say that. But let's just say I'm way-giddy!!! aND, nO, i DON'T think i'M MANIC-DEPRESSIVE!?!(Laffing-my-effing-arse-off!!!)

dEEaRRGGGHHHH!!!!!

WildflowerNJ

11-30-2007, 05:39 AM

Wow, Danny!!! Wish I lived in Florida now! Maybe the band will make its way up north....play NY....

Danny Roberts

11-30-2007, 06:17 AM

Yeah WildfloweNJ, that'll probably be a distinct possibility, but first we're goin' in the studio on Saturday or Sunday.
Mo Later, DeeArrggghhhh!!!!

WildflowerNJ

11-30-2007, 06:20 AM

Alright!!!! :b55::b55::b55:

Marion

11-30-2007, 07:09 AM

See, all's well that end's well! Have fun Danny!

Danny Mac

11-30-2007, 08:03 AM

Danny, you should see if Jeff Sims is Available, You all would have
a great little Group.

Mudcrutch

11-30-2007, 08:13 AM

wow, stan. interesting.

Raelin

11-30-2007, 08:22 AM

Wow, Danny that's great! And with Stan, that's really cool! I wish I lived closer.

wild1forever

11-30-2007, 11:44 AM

See, all's well that end's well! Have fun Danny!
Yeah, it's great how this has played out! :)

Starfish

11-30-2007, 12:35 PM

omg Stan!

nurktwin

11-30-2007, 12:46 PM

this all sounds great danny. btw, if stan doesn't work out, give me a call.....lololol.

wild1forever

11-30-2007, 01:15 PM

^ :icon_laugh:

Echosoftom

11-30-2007, 01:59 PM

Hey Danny, You might wanna think about it, Nurk's also a good cook. These little side talents come in handy when you're on the road, LOL!

Danny Roberts

11-30-2007, 03:33 PM

Hey der, GatorGirl, Yes I got the first one, I'm still lookin' 4 the othra 1. TeeHee! Is this cool or WHAT?!?! Stan Lynch and Charlie Souza, the bass-player who replaced me in Mudcrutch R puttin' a lil teen-combo togethra called "The Mudbreakers". Gots a nice ring to it, eh?
Mo Later, DeeArrggghhhh!!!!!

KansasPettyFan

11-30-2007, 09:31 PM

How exciting! Good ol Stan the Man!

Danny Roberts

12-01-2007, 05:25 AM

Greetings and Salutations and All Dat BS,
I was playin' a little Reggae music a little earlier and it reminded me of a story ya'll might enjoy, completely true, if I'm lyin', I'm dyin', about the day I got to meet and hang-out wit Bob Marley & the Wailers in L.A. at the Shelter office on Hollywould Blvd.
I was hangin' out at the Tarka/Skyhill Publishing office-room, which was in the same lil funky house that the Shelter Records operations were located. I'd hang-out with Andrea Starr, who really kept the place runnin' smoothly, as her Boss-man, Don Williams, was a real effervescent & hyper, but very charming, character. Seems that they had all of the Wailers, except for Bob Marley, signed to publishing deals, so when they would come to the western U.S., they would do a show in L.A. and stop by the Shelter office complex, to put it more impressively. But this time, as they were comin' through U.S. Customs in Miami, several of the Wailers got busted carryin' the herb wit dem. So they immediately needed a large sum of money to get out of the big mess they were in and into the U.S. for their big tour.
So Don and Andrea got the money together and got it to the right folks in Miami in about 12 hours and saved their Rastafarian arses! So when they came to Hollywood, I believe it was to play the "Roxie", they stopped-by the Shelter office low-rise. So we locked the doors and they start pullin' out some humongous buds they had procurred. So, I wanted to impress them with my doobwah-rolling ability, so I stick about ten papers together and roll a nice fatty, y'know? But they all started laughing at my white-boy spliff and proceeded to roll some things that looked like small baseball bats, outa newspaper, shopping bags, if it rolled, they used it. So the smoke gets to where it was hangin' down to about waist-deep, everybody's got da Devil-Eye, they're so red. I stepped into what was the publishing company's listening room, and there stands Bob Marley, whose music I had only recently been turned onto through Denny Cordell and Don Williams. So, I fired up my white-boy fatty and handed it to Bob, and he takes a big pull, doesn't laugh at me or anything, and we proceeded to burn dat whole ting, mon. He was a small but very intense dude, and I have over the many years since then, every time I hear his music anywhere, I always remember back to the day I shared a white-boy fatty with the King of Reggae Music, Bob Marley. There'll never be anyone that can top him in all of Reggae. Respect Mon, Forever, Danny Roberts

Raelin

12-01-2007, 10:06 AM

LOL, Great story Danny!

wild1forever

12-01-2007, 11:23 AM

Great story, Danny! I guess it's official: musicians have more exciting lives than technical writers do. LOL.

Danny Roberts

12-01-2007, 07:50 PM

Ladies & Germs, as it were, if U will,
We're gonna start recording mid-week, hopefully, so be lookin' fer sumpin' soon, so many new tunes just zingin' all over the place, jes tryin' ta grab em' quick, y'know? Can't hardly wait! Might blow-up real good, or sumpin' fierce, whichever comes first, but IT'S ALL GOOD 4 ONCE, knock on berylium!?! I'ze will keep U posted, fer sure. Have fun!
Sincerely, and I Really Mean That, I'm like Serious, Y'know?!?
DeeArrggghhhh!!!!!

nurktwin

12-02-2007, 03:43 PM

maybe after all these years, you should reverse the name and call it 'mud breakers' and enter the new era.

nurktwin

12-02-2007, 04:03 PM

naw, that doesn't work. try the old balloon font like the byrds did.

Danny Roberts

12-06-2007, 01:40 AM

Well, Guys & Dolls,

I haven't shared anything 2 recently, so I gotta tell ya'll one of my Joe Cocker stories, as there's several and their all kinda unique in their own ways.
Now, first let me say that Joe's been clean and sober 4 a long time, so my hat's off to Joe 4 pulling a great turn-around. But back in the day, well, let's just say Joe was a wild man. We were at Village Recorders in West L.A. recording our little songs, whilst trying not to sound 2 much like Steely Dan, since they'd done our current (at the time) favorite, ""Pretzel Logic" there. It was a great place to go record! The staff would find out what kinda cookies and liquor you liked and have the lounge stocked with all sorts of munchies. There were 2 studios there at the time, as in 1974, so U never knew who'd U run into in the lounge, or the bathroom, for that matter. We were working away 1 day and as always, we liked to have our "Federal", the aforementioned herbal delight that an old friend of mine grew in Tallahassee, way out in the woods in the woods close 2 Thomasville, y'know? So anyway, back 2 the studio. We're working away, and indulging of the herbage, if u will, if I may, and it had a really sweet aroma, let's say. So, the door to the control-room opens and in pops Chaka Khan and the guitarist, Tony Maiden, that was in the band she was in at the time, "Rufus". So we ask if they'd like 2 partake and, of course, they said that's what they were there 4, since it had such a sweet aroma and all. So we get all wacky with a fine, young Chaka Khan, before she started carryin' all that junk in her trunk, if U know what I mean. So this would happen a coupla more times during our sessions there. Oh, but I was talkin' 'bout Joe, right...So we're in the studio, and we'd just cut the take of "Depot Street" that wound-up on the single, so we're tryin' 2 get the right take of "Wild Eyes", but it just wasn't happening for at least the first ten or so takes. So we're startin' 2 get a little grumpy, but we decide 2 give it another go. Randall counted it off and we start playin' when we look up and see that Joe Cocker and his old guitarist from the "Grease Band", Henry McCulloch, y'know, the band that played wit Joe at "Woodstock", and he's playin' with "Wings" at the time, so these were 2 heavy doods, so we perked up, trying 2 look and sound our best for Joe & Henry, which we did, as that was the take that became the B-side, w/"Depot Street" being the A-side, I think that's how it wuz. So we get the take and go into the control-room to listen and rub shoulders wit Joe & Henry. Joe and Denny Cordell, our producer, were buds, so there was a jovial mood in the air, seeing as we'd just nailed the take. So, everybody's partaking of de herbal delights and yakkin' it up 4 a while. A few minutes later, nature calls, meanin' I had 2 whiz, 2 put it politely, so I heads up 2 the Men's Room. Well, when I walked in, Joe and Henry and this other guy that came with 'em were in the process of introducing that most evil substance into their systems in the most serious manner of introducing those types of substances in2 one's bod, as it wur. So I quickly and politely backed my way out of that scene and headed 2 the Ladie's Room, where no such activities were takin' place. So, after first washing my hands, as any good employee should, if they're responsible about their hygiene, I go back and grab a Jack & Coke and some choclate-chip cookies, they had cookies that were as big as a dinner-plate, I'm serious!. So, we make our way back into the studio to do some of the backing-vocals, which we pulled-off quick & ezy. So, when we headed to the control-room, you'd hafta open this big-ass heavy door, and there laid Joe, who'd, to put it politely, gone 2 sleep right there in front of the door. So, 4 the next coupla hours, every time we'd go back and 4th between the control-room and the studio, u'd hafta step over Joe Effin' Cocker! I'll never forget havin' to B careful not 2 step on Joe every time I went thru that door!

Mo Later, DeeArrggghhhh!!!!!

Century City

12-06-2007, 11:32 AM

haha i love your stories man!! keep 'em comming

Danny Roberts

12-15-2007, 06:20 AM

Good evening, er morning, Ladies & Germans,
It's been a while since I last checked-in, as things have been pretty busy since I last dropped in. Charlie Souza made the trip last weekend from Redington Beach, which is over on the Gulf-side of the Sunshine State, in the Tampa Bay area, all the way up here to our nation's oldest city (1565), Saint Augustine, which is about 35 miles south of Jacksonville. I live on Anastasia Island, in a little area called Treasure Beach. It is a very cool little city, with lots of touristas visiting from all over the globe, so it's got a bit of an international feel to it. I spent about 10 years sailing all over the Caribbean and Mediterranean Seas, visiting probably 60 different islands and about 20 different countries, so when I came back here, I realized that this was one of those cities that people travel to from all over the world, and for good reason. This place is just dripping history and vibes from the different settlers and conquerers, those being the Spaniards, the British and the French. And we had a large Native American culture around here too, so you throw all those together at one time or another and you got yourself some historic vibes flyin' all around the place!
So anyway, Charlie arrived and we did the male-bonding thing for a few minutes, but the talk quickly turned to what brought us together, which was the fact that he was the next bass-player to follow me into the old teen-combo with the truly funky name of "Mudcrutch". Turns-out that he heard absolutely nothin' about me from Tom, Mike, Randall or Benmont, so I must've been on their shit-list from the day I left and apparently will forever be. Kay-sarah-sarah, or whatever will B will B Will B until everybody forgets why whatever it was that happened, happened. But we did a lot of self-analysis, trying to make sense out of something that happened so very long ago, that which, for some reason, somebody decided to cut into some very old and thick scar-tissue. I've got to say that I'm about over any sort of hurt feelings I had initially, to the extent that it's been an almost cathartic event, one that was so very-much needed, as painful as the process was. I want to thank everybody that watched and read my rants, as well as my stories, and helped me to get through what was a very trying experience. I'll never really understand why it was necessary to initiate, but I'm now downright thankful for the inspiration and motivation, as the whole thing has served as an impetus to make some serious efforts at taking some big steps toward something I've needed to do for a long time, and that is; to get serious about my music for the first time in a LONG time. I've written 16 new songs since this all started. I can't finish one song without another popping-up in the middle of another one. It's like somebody reached out and pulled a big cork out of the 'Lyrics' section of my brain, as they are pouring out almost non-stop. I've had days recently where everything I say for the entire day comes out in words and melody. I can't write it down fast enough! I guess I've been suppressing this stuff ever since I left THAT BAND. So, now I've got to make-up for a LOT of wasted and mis-directed time and energy. The only negative that came out of this is that Stan pulled a "Stanley" and bailed on the idea, wanting to maintain a low-key kinda thing for now, which is fine, as he's doing the same thing that I did a few years-ago, and that's helping his mom and dad through the twilight years, through a lot of personal stuff that takes a lot out of one's mind, body and spirit. So, good luck Stanley! Hope you can be strong for your folks. We'll say a little prayer.
But getting back to the good stuff, Charlie played a gig with the incredible kid I've been playing with recently, the 13 year-old prodigy that is Conrad Oberg. You can find lots of stuff, including recent live-video on youtube and myspace. Charlie sat in the whole gig and pulled it off like the seasoned pro that he is. Conrad keeps you on your toes, as he's 85% blind, yet he's always giving cues about dynamics and stops and starts. He's gonna be HUGE, and probably fairly soon. I played with Derek Trucks for 2 years and Conrad is gonna be at least THAT good, as he sings, plays keyboards (since the age of two!) and plays guitar like Hendrix/SRV, including all the showman-type moves and having a great rapport with the crowd. The crowds just love him, with the vast majority realizing that they are witnessing something truly special. One night a few weeks-ago, a family brought their 16 year-old daughter, who was totally blind, they brought her to the gig and she was dancing right in front of Conrad and a couple times she would reach out and feel Conrad's face to see what he looked like while he was in the middle of a solo! She was very pretty and asked if she could sing a song with us, which took a lot of nerve. But she got through the song, a little nervously, but she could sing, and it was one of those down-right spiritual moments you don't see that often. Every night with Conrad is like that. He's absolutely brilliant! We have these conversations that just make it so obvious that the kid is a true genius! We're playing up in Jacksonville tomorrow night, at a place called the Mojo Kitchen, a real-nice blues club in J'ville. Unfortunately, Charlie has family coming into town this weekend, so we're doing it three-piece, but we'll still be having a LARGE time.
But, getting back to the new songs and stuff, we're in the process of choosing our drummer, got several that we'll be trying-out here in my studio, and I'm gettin' a coupla other players involved, as I want to be able to make a LARGE racket! So, I've been slaving away, playing most everything mice elf on the demos, so other players can take the basic ideas and run with 'em. Including the 16 new songs, I've got around 50 to 70 tunes I'm working on, so there will be enough to start throwing 'em up against the wall to see what sticks. So keep yer ear to the ground, as stuff will probably be appearing briefly on our web-site soon. I'm also about 40-50 pages into a book(let) that'll be released with the first CD offering from the new teen-combo, "The MUDBREAKERS". It'll have a lot of the stories I've shared with you here, as well as a bunch more funny and interesting tales, but it will also have Charlie's take on things, so this could be interesting, as well as entertaining. I'll post a coupla tunes sometime next week for a coupla days and tell anyone who might be interested to check it out, as I'll only leave them up for a coupla days. So, like I said, keep yer ear to the ground and tell yer friends, go wake the neighbors, whisper it to yer significant other during your most intimate moments.........well, maybe that would be truly inappropriate. But, just in case you missed it the first time, thanks for your time, patience understanding and caring. You people mean a lot to me, so Bless yer pointed little heads.
Sincereously Yerz, Danny Roberts (The MUDBREAKERS)

PS - Another plus from all of this, I've lost 24 pounds since this all began!

Danny Roberts

12-18-2007, 06:21 PM

Hey there Normandi,
I can't tell you how much it blows my mind that some people put such effort and caring into trying to figure out what I really haven't been able 2 completely figure out mice-elf 4 years. And I truly agree with you & others that have posted here on the same subject, that being that you guys are only getting one side of a multi-faceted set of circumstances, with that one side being my own. But that's the only one I've got, so I have 2 run with it and not away from it, as it absolutely blind-sided me after so many years and all I could ask was - why??? I almost died from deep-vein thrombosis about two &1/2 years-ago, so ever since, I've been working on my recovery, as it knocks U on yer ass REAL HARD. So, I've been dealing with about all I could deal with, but then THIS CRAP slammed me in the face when I wasn't even aware of it. I found out about it by accident (thanks Google) and could've probably dealt with all of it by laughing at it all, but to see the effort that they so obviously put into completely erasing any trace of my participation, well, I just could not remain silent. I wrote an "Open Letter To Tom Petty, Tony Dimitriades and Peter Bogdonavoch", which I faxed to them all, thinking I'd get some response from TP or his management, but they're just hoping that I'll shut-up and go away. But, until they give me and their fans an explanation, I will NOT go away. As of 2day, almost 6-thousand people have read the article on this web-site alone, plus it ran in a number of newspapers around the country and the world. I've received E-mails from all over the world from people, people who've helped me make it through all this at times when I truly didn't know if I could carry-on, 'cuz it hurt SO BAD! And it had 2 happen SO many years later that I just can't understand why he/they would go 2 this much trouble 2 make me feel/look so bad 2 the entire freakin' world. I didn't sleep with anybody's wife or girlfriend or daughter, or farm-animal, didn't do anybody any physical-harm and certainly didn't make-off with a pile of anyone's cash. All I did was leave their band, get out of Tom's way, and then wouldn't come-back when they called me repeatedly asking me 2 return. They went on 2 become one of the greatest bands in the world, so I obviously didn't impede their progress very-much, although I sang harmony better than anyone has since. So, yer guess is as good as mine. There WAS one incident years-ago that I'll always wonder about whether or not it has anything 2 do with all this.
About 20 years ago, I was co-producing an artist named Rick Christian, a really great singer/songwriter from Memphis. We were recording at the then-newly re-opened Capricorn Studios for Phil Walden in Macon, Georgia. We got an invite to this big "Rock & Roll Bowling Party" that a prominent management 'dood' named John Scott (I think) held every year. So me and Rick walk in, and it's like a who's who of the L.A. Rock Scene, with rockers everywhere in various states of dis-repair. It was like comedy-bowling, with people forgetting 2 release the ball and falling on their faces/asses everywhere! We were working our way through the rather congested traffic inside, when lo & behold, here comes Tom, walking straight at me, not looking where he was going. So we walk right up 2 each other, literally face-2-face, so I say "Hey there Tom, how ya doin'?" He then throws his arms up in front of his face and starts yelling "No pictures, no pictures, no pictures!" He never once looked at me and ran-off in the opposite direction. Me and Rick stopped and doubled-over, laughing hysterically, not believing what had just happened, which a lot of people saw! Mike, Benmont, Ron and Stan were sitting at a bowling lane about 30 feet away and saw the whole thing. Benmont came and got me, so we went over 2 where they were sitting, while Mike went and got Tom. Tom and Mike didn't return for about 10 minutes and when they did, Tom looked REALLY-stoned and REALLY embarrassed. He couldn't/wouldn't even look me in the eye! So I was still having a hard time suppressing my own laughter, but I tried making small-talk, saying something like "Gosh, it sure is great 2 see everybody", while still laughing my ass off. It felt REALLY uncomfortable, so I said, "Well, it's been great 2 C U guys, but I've gotta go have several cocktails, so Buh'bye", and walked away, still laughing my ass off. Hell, I didn't even have a freakin' CAMERA!!! So, I can't help but wonder if Tom holds my laughing at him that night against me, y'know? That was a scene from MY movie. And it REALLY happened. If I'm lyin', I'm dyin'!
Anyway, thanks 2 everybody 4 yer support and understanding, as this has turned into a Blessing in Disguise. It's like somebody grabbed me by the heart and screamed 'Release the hounds!' And them dogs are runnin' wild and I can't stop 'em now, they're diggin' up bones I didn't even realize were right there in my own back-yard! So don't anybody waste any pity or sympathy on DeeArrggghhhh!!!!! I'm 2 busy tryin' 2 figure out how 2 make my days about 12-hours longer, as there just isn't enough time 2 do everything that's happenin' inside my heart and my skull! Thanks and God Bless Ya'll, er Yawl, er Yeoghwlgh!
Mo Later, Danny Roberts

dogontherun

12-18-2007, 11:04 PM

Danny - I've just spent the last hour plus reading your fascinating stories. I can just picture "nature boy Mike" LOL!! Thanks for sharing that. And, like everyone else, I'm astonished and disturbed by the "editing job" you've brought to our attention. I'm so glad you've found your way to The Farm and hope you'll continue to feel 'at home' here!

chipster

12-27-2007, 10:05 PM

Charlie Souza on bass guitar with Mudcrutch as the original bass player.

(see charliesouza.com)

Danny Roberts

01-14-2008, 03:07 AM

Greetings 2 All U Farmers, of which I Am also Kinda Farmerish, Y’know?!? I always did enjoy a little dirt under my fingernails, mainly after doing farmerish thangs, like gardening, which I’m about 2 get back into here at my plantation in Treasure Beach. We just finished adding a new room 2 our little hacienda. A 35 x 10 ‘sun room’ with a nice little screened-in deck on the back, about 28’ from the water. I’m putting a 35’ raised-bed garden right next to the new room, as I kinda have a green thumb. I’m a bit of a chef, so I like 2 grow my own herbs and veggies. Keeps me almost sane. Also added a quaint-looking mini-front porch with a new front-door, so we’re styling, 4 sure. My neighbor, Jim Essery, former harmonica player for “The Allman Brothers Band”, did the bulk of the work, along with his son-in-law Chris. Why I’m tellin’ ya’ll bout this is this; we’re doing the lion’s share of the recording of the new “Mudbreakers” project right here at my home-studio. We should be getting REAL busy REAL soon, as we’re finally finishing-up the home-improvement. I’m already well under way with about 50 tracks already in various stages of development. I’m trying 2 hone in on the first 3-4 so I can let ya’ll check ‘em out and tell me whatcha think. I’ve sent some of the early tracks out 2 a few of yerz, so those are the ones you’ll be hearing in their complete form REAL soon. I just gotta run these builders, painters and the like outa here, and SOON! Not that they’re not appreciated. They’ve actually built what is turning-out 2 B a rather nice-sounding room!
Also, we’re doing what is probably going 2 B the “Mudbreakers” Inaugural Gig on Saturday, April 26th, at the “Polk Theatre” in Lakeland, Florida. It’s a beautiful theatre that was built in 1928 by a famous Italian designer and architect,J.E. Casale, and looks like you’re walking into a Mediterranean village. It was restored somewhat recently and is going to be a nice place 2 play. Elvis played there in 1956. I have a photo of him from that show. My cousin Lois actually won a “Date With Elvis” contest the day of the show. My elder cousin, I might add! (LOL!) I saw the “Beatles” movies there when they first came out, as well. The girls would actually scream at the screen, as if they were at a live show! Quite funny, but quite cool as well, y’know? Them was da daze!
Also appearing at the “Polk” that very same evening will be a really special combo, “The SWIMMING POOL Q’S”, who hail from Atlanta, Georgia and are fronted and led by another former-Lakelander, Jeff Calder, who is the group’s writer, singer, guitarist and ‘Lead Visionary’. The Q’s are ‘Georgia Music Hall of Fame’ inductees, and rightly so. Their most recent CD offering, “Royal Academy of Reality” is nothing if not a freakin’ ‘smart-rock’ masterpiece. I’ze proud of Jeff and company, especially since I cut their original demo in my living-room back in the late 70s. My favorite cut from that project was one called “Rat Bait”. Kinda Captain Beefheart meets Zappa. If you heard them back then and then heard their newest offering, there’s no way you’d know it was the same band! Jeff is singing like a freakin’ bird these days and his writing is in a league all his own. Go buy “Royal Academy of Reality”. You’ll be glad U did.
Anyway, another group of old friends will also be playing a set. Must check on the moniker they’re supposed to be getting from a palm-reader in the area, Madame Wang-Dang-Doodle. She’s a special lady.
So, I’ll keep you’ze all posted as 2 any further developments pertaining 2 the aforementioned rumours and innuendo.
Take care and Thanks 4 Yer Support, Danny Roberts

PS - I guess I oughta share a funny little story, seeing as I haven't told ya'll one recently. After Mudcrutch started playing outside of Gainesville, we had a gig at some dive in Daytona. The name of the establishment escapes me, which means it was one of those gigs one would just as soon forget, if you know what I mean. Anyway, I went to pick up TP and when I got to his folks' place, Tom was standing out front, wearing this funky green suit and an old hat. Turns out that it was the suit Tom would wear to work when he was briefly employed at a funeral home down in the Tampa/St. Pete area. He started pulling out receipts for caskets and orders for embalming fluid and all sorts of weird stuff that had been in the pockets for years. He was chuckling 'bout it for the whole ride to Daytona. He told us stories about how they'd play 'hide the body' and other strange stuff. I couldn't make this stuff up, I swear! DR

emmie

01-14-2008, 11:53 AM

He was chuckling 'bout it for the whole ride to Daytona. He told us stories about how they'd play 'hide the body' and other strange stuff

That's unsettling :(

Danny Roberts

01-29-2008, 01:54 AM

This is an copy of the letter I wrote and faxes to TP & company the day-after I found out about being air-brushed out of the picture of "Mudcrutch" that appeared in the epic, four-hour long DVD and theatre release of "Running Down A Dream". It has been edited slightly to meet space requirements.

Thursday, November 15, 2007
An Open Letter To Tom Petty, Tony Dimitriades & Peter Bogdanovich
From Danny Roberts (Formerly of “Mudcrutch”)
Gentlemen,
Firstly, I’ve got to commend you for coming up with the idea of passing the buck, as it were, to Mr. Peter Bogdanovich, and getting him to write such a lame-ass explanation for not including ANY mention of me or even just a short sentimental interview with me, or using any of the “Home Movie” footage of me from our rather epic pilgrimage from Gainesville, Florida to Tulsa, Oklahoma, and then heading west-ward from there to The Land of Broken Dreams, Hollywood, California.
I haven’t even seen your product, at least not yet, but I’ve been told by many people from all over the country, some that I know, as well as quite a few that I’ve never met, that there ain’t ‘nary a word or anything but possibly a fleeting image of myself anywhere in it. I’m guessing that my name doesn’t even appear anywhere in the entire “Mudcrutch” section or anywhere in the film, for that matter. It’s too bad, as I was a very handsome young man back then, and you could’ve used me for some extra eye-candy. But I’ll get over that, really, I will. I remember seeing Jim Lenahan’s footage from that adventure and remember being in quite a few scenes. I remember watching it over at Keith and Ramey’s house in LA. It was SO COOL! We were like modern-day pioneers, rock’n’roll style, on our way out to conquer the West! That sounds like a great idea for a movie! I’d better write that down, lest I forget!
But, getting back to the “Bogster’s” lame-ass E-mail offering, I just realized that there’s a writer’s strike going on out there, so that explains the lack of quality in his composition and explanation. I’ll bet that I could’ve come up with a much more creative and believable story than that! But, having been a fan of his work for many years, I’ll save that E and put it in my “Show Bidness” scrapbook, right next to my autographed promo-shot of Earnest Borgnine. By the way – is that an ascot he’s wearing in the photo of him and Tom standing out in front of the Steven J. Ross Theatre in Burbank, or is it a kerchief? I like ascots. I have several buried in my sock-drawer.
So Tom, you really didn’t think that I could share some compelling tales, if only for a few seconds, of our first journey out West? The same trip that you described as, and I quote you from Pg. 37, “California”, Chapter Two, of “Conversations With Tom Petty”, by Paul Zollo; “It was the greatest trip of my life, really.” Earlier, in that very same chapter, you were benevolent enough to include my name, saying; ”And Danny Roberts had a van, so we drove.” Wow, I’m almost tearing-up after reading those sentimental words. Tom, it was a pretty special journey for me too. But the memories have, for some reason unbeknownst to me, been tainted now. I wonder; whatever happened to the cassettes of the running commentary we kept as we drove across this great nation of ours. Those were some funny tapes! We were having some kind of fun!
Tom, if anybody should’ve been interviewed for the “Mudcrutch” segment of your flick, it shoulda been ME. Imagine if I HADN’T been there. The demos don’t turn out like they did, the infamous ’69 VW bus wouldn’t have become part of rock’n’roll folk-lore like it has, and who’d have driven when “the Duke” got tired? You didn’t have to drive a single foot all the way to LA and back. I know that I can be a pain in the ass sometimes, but how can such a successful and respected rock icon such as yourself hold whatever grudge it is that you’ve been holding against me for 30-plus fucking years? Aren’t you satisfied enough with your life that we can work this issue out? It’s all worked out for you quite nicely, so why do you keep on going out of your way to try to disrespect me and hurt my feelings in front of the whole fucking world? Imagine being on this end of this situation!
I moved to Saint Augustine a few years ago, after living and playing in Hong Kong for a while. I came here to help my parents die, as any good son would do. One of my favorite last memories of them was when I told them about the upcoming meteor shower that would be occurring one night while they were still able to enjoy some of those once-in-a-lifetime events that Mother Nature bestows upon us from time to time. I had fallen asleep, when I heard them out in the driveway, Oo-ing and ah-ing every few seconds when a meteor would enter the Earth’s atmosphere, with a long trail following brightly behind. I’ll cherish that memory forever.
Then I nearly died from blood-clots (Deep-vein Thrombosis) that developed after surgery on both my knees just a few days after my mother died 2&1/2 years ago here at the house I now live in, not too far away from where you once had a house, in Crescent Beach. I’ve seen 12 doctors in the last three months. It’s been a long haul and I don’t deserve or need this shit. I like it here. But you and your people have now totally disrespected me to the point that I really don’t want to go out and start answering all the questions again. Again, this didn’t have to be this way, but you motherfuckers went and erased my pretty face from a well-known photo that’s all over the web.
That’s what got all this started. I was surfing the www when I stumbled upon somebody from somewhere asking; “Why was Danny Roberts erased from the photo of Mudcrutch in “Runnin’ Down A Dream”? Boy, oh boy, you have disappointed me and hurt my feelings, as well as damaged my reputation and caused me humiliation, not to mention the mental anguish and embarrassment I have endured ever since this all started and that I’ll be dealing with for the rest of my life. I don’t want to be asked and don’t want to be having to answer all the questions that are already being asked about all that I have described so far. Do you guys understand what I’m sayin’? Tom and Tony, I am betting that you two are smart enough to try to realize what I’m dealing with here. Can you try to wrap your brain around what I must be going through? I haven’t caused this to happen. It somehow and for some reason, is happening to US!
Wait a second! I almost forgot to mention your “Coffee-Table Book”, which is also called “Runnin’ Down A Dream”, right? I stopped by the local Barnes & Noble Booksellers a few days ago and thumbed through it, skimming through the “Mudcrutch” chapter to see if I was featured anywhere in it. You know, I think I saw a ton of photos in that section, but I don’t recall seeing my pretty face anywhere in that either. Are you guys going to try to tell me and everybody else that the “Bogster” edited me out of that too? Tom, I believe you are listed as the book’s sole author. Good job, except for that one guy that you left out… AGAIN! I ordered one on Amazon.com. I’m going to show it to my wife, my friends and family, even my cute little dog, Stella and say, “Here’s where it says, “And Danny Roberts had a van, so we drove.” But it doesn’t even say that, does it? I’m getting even more disappointed now, Tom. And to think that I put that on my credit card.
You know, it’s amazing what one hurt, extremely disappointed man with a good computer and a high-speed Internet connection can accomplish once he sets his mind to it. You should get on the www sometime and poke around a little bit and see what quite a few people are talkin’ about. I’ll give you a clue. It’s right under your noses.
So, Tom, Tony and “the Bogster”. You three, or, for the moment, no more and no less than Tom and Tony, should discuss this amongst yourselves and give serious consideration to “reaching out” and trying to make amends, face-to-face, and SOON! Think about it.
You can ease into this, if you want, by contacting me via E-mail first. Or just pick up the phone and call me BEFORE THIS GETS OUT OF CONTROL! Again, I didn’t deserve to have this happen to me, didn’t want this to happen the way it’s happening, and wouldn’t wish for any person on the planet to be experiencing what I’m going through, but I cannot and will not be erased from the truth, the truth that only Tom, Keith and myself know. You said it, Tom, and I quote, “And Danny Roberts had a van, so we drove.”
At this point, I feel quite confident in my own abilities and am prepared to make my point in a friendly, reasonable, sensible, logical and every other possible manner that happens from here on. I didn’t ask for things to be happening this way, but I don’t want to be pissed off about this for the rest of my life. I still remember what you called, ‘The greatest trip of my life, really.’ Brother Tom, I felt the same way too. I don’t remember NOT being there. Do you?
Very Sincerely, and I mean that,
Danny Roberts XXOO

Refugee

01-29-2008, 03:51 AM

Don't you have a MySpace site where you can blog this?

Danny Roberts

01-29-2008, 10:48 AM

Good idea. Buh-bye.
XXOO, DeeArrggghhhh!!!!!

emmie

01-29-2008, 11:15 AM

Good bloody grief LOL

Wildflower

01-31-2008, 11:49 AM

Has Tom answered you? And what did he said?

Danny Mac

02-02-2008, 02:51 AM

I've actually have never seen the Photo with you in it.
Can you post it. You say there is a popular one all over the internet
that people know it is you in it.
I'd like to see it? I don't doubt you but, I've seen a bunch of the band. Maybe I've missed it. If you don't want to post it, You can
send it to me in a PM. I've just never have seen the one your talking
about.
PS Might try to get to the gig in Lakeland. When is that again?
D

Starfish

02-02-2008, 08:12 AM

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v613/SLQ13/mudcrutch.jpg

Danny Mac, here's a link to the picture- he's in the top row on the right.

Danny Mac

02-03-2008, 01:07 AM

Thanks, Ok That's the one.
I've seen it before. Weird how it got brushed out.
Huh?? Wonder whats up with that? We may never
know what happend.

jonjen

02-19-2008, 11:54 AM

Danny Roberts describes the paper as a ‘goldmine’. What goldmine? The ’find’ was not top secret or secret information - nothing that an exercise in looking up phone numbers in the phone book, calling the various producers, and asking for the name of a contact person wouldn’t have produced.

More importantly, it didn’t change the course of events. By all accounts, Tom Petty went door to door, with tapes in hand, insisting producers listen to the tapes, even though he was told it was not done that way and, through his initiative, generated the necessary interest to land a contract deal.

So, whether Tom Petty found the paper on the telephone booth floor or Danny Roberts chased it down the street blowing in the wind, or whether both found a copy of the same transcript is insignificant. But, it is very telling as to how vastly differently Tom Petty and Danny Roberts perceive the same situation/experience. To one, it was a goldmine; to the other, it was simply an object of surprise and curiosity. In RDAD, Tom Petty mentions being astonished at the prospect of how many other people were doing the same thing. That was the extent of the significance of the ‘find’ (the paper) from Tom Petty’s perspective.

Danny Roberts, it seems, is a pompous individual with an inflated ego. He describes his role in Mudcrutch as that of a ‘catalyst’. A ‘catalyst’ of what? The fact his van was used to transport ‘the boys’ to California? It was to his benefit, as well. And, the trip was inevitable. With or without Danny Roberts (and van), there is no doubt, with Tom Petty’s drive and determination and DREAM, the trip would have taken place even if ‘the boys’ had to walk to California or ride a camel.

Danny Roberts describes himself as ‘could have been additional ‘candy’ for the band. Certainly, not everyone will agree. He talks about providing the best harmonies on Mudcrutch songs, “to date”. That’s debatable. He even talks about how people at the concert in Gainesville may have thought he had a “flat ass” when he supposedly put the book “Conversations with Tom Petty” inside the back of his pants and brought it into the venue (for whatever reason he found it necessary to conceal the book in his pants). This man is so full of himself he actually believes people would be scrutinizing his ass, let alone recognize him?

Danny Roberts claims he was instrumental in procuring a contract deal with Tom Petty. How so? Just for “being there”? For signing his name to a contract? There’s certainly nothing in any of his stories to suggest he did anything extraordinary that would qualify him as a ‘catalyst’.

People internalize relationships and experiences very differently. While Danny Roberts may have ‘been there’, physically, he didn’t appear to have ‘bonded’ much with his fellow bandmates, as in being emotionally, psychologically, and spiritually available to them and to the band, as a whole - the kind of bonding that results in long-lasting relationships, both professionally and personally. That is evident from the fact he pulled the plug on Mudcrutch before it even got off the ground (after signing a contract deal) and refused to return even after supposedly umpteen phone calls, according to his version of the story. His reason for doing so? There was a certain member that just wasn't pulling it off in the studio, which drove me crazy. When the other guys in the band wouldn't do anything about it - even after our producer lost interest for the same reason - I said "See Ya!" Well, ‘see ya’ it was. Bye bye!

Tom Petty has emphasized the importance of good relations within the band - that the members can fight amongst themselves but have an outsider interfere and the entire band will come down on them. Evidently, Danny Roberts didn’t fit into this philosophy.

His account of experiences is as fleeting and insubstantial as the stories he tells about his experiences with other band members in various other bands. They read like