If you’re looking for the definition of integrity this would be it. The very talented SHAKURA S’AIDA fresh off her most impressive 2nd place finish at the recent International Blues Competition in Nashville, made a new fan when she was down there – Thomas Ruf of German blues label Ruf Records. He was so blown away by her performance that he asked her – on short notice – to be a part of 8 Blues Caravan dates in Europe this starting April 11 through to May 3 and she agreed. Shakura is replacing well-known American blues singer Candye Kane who has been sidelined by illness and will be touring with American blues artist Deborah Coleman and young British singer Dani Wilde. Shakura has been booked for a long time to play as a Special Guest (along with guitar accompaniest Brooke Blackburn) with Lance Anderson & Mike Sloski at Blues On The Rideau at The Cove Inn, Westport this weekend April 18 & 19.

Both nights are almost Sold Out and there are a lot of people very excited about seeing her with this band. She flew back from Europe today to play the two Cove Shows. How’s that for integrity! I’m sure she could have stayed in Europe for the 13 day break and the compensation from playing a 120 seater in little old Westport certainly won’t cover her airfare costs. Thank you Shakura and God bless you! On that note there have been some last minute cancellations for both nights – the flu has been hitting a number of people out this way - that has opened up some good seats. Don’t miss this opportunity to see one of the best B3 organ players in the country - Lance Anderson - matched by superb drumming from Mike Sloski and of course the incomparable blues/soul/R&B vocalist Shakura S’Aida (with Brooke on guitar) – and you don’t have to fly to Germany to see her!