by Micah 'Prof.' Robinson

Greetings, Burning Spear fans, wherever you may be. This is Micah 'Prof.' Robinson coming to you 'from the road'. I will be bringing you, along with other members of the band, this year's diary from the "Don't Hurt the Rastaman" Tour 2001.

North America 2001
We'll be sharing our impressions and thoughts about the people, places and things we encounter on the road.

Well, we're already two weeks into the U.S. leg of the tour and things seem to be coming together nicely. There have been a couple of personnel changes, and the sound is jelling in a different way than it did last year. Dave (Don King) Richards is the new man on bass and Gilbert (Gillie) Spence is on rhythm guitar. Check out the Burning Spear. You'll be so glad you did.

21 August 2001 - Hyannis, MA: Melody Tent
The "Melody Tent". Good name. The place was just overflowing with melody on this night. But, I could tell it would be, from the feeling we got in this undersized, densely seated circus tent type structure. Sound check was very relaxed, yet high energy…everyone seemed to be gearing up for the show hours in advance…relishing the chance to create some magic alongside 'The Burning One'. Everything promised to fall right into place. Mikey is busy fine tuning his drum mix…and I'm standing behind him trying to pick up some knowledge. He has ears like a producer…by the time he's satisfied, you know everyone else will be too. Stewie and Bassie are working on different ways to approach some of the chords in Rocking Time.

The evening was devoted to music and food, and there was plenty of good food for all to enjoy. In fact, the event was called a music and food festival. The different performers that night totally lived up to the Music part of the billing.

The show itself, was quietly intense onstage. In the audience, there was pure celebration. "Jah No Dead" and "Identity" gave them just a small taste of the burning reggae to come.

22 August 2001 - Bar Harbor, ME: Criterion Theatre
The people we encounter seem mostly to be visitors from all over the country, who come here for some sailing or fishing, or just enjoying the water. Today, there's burning reggae on their menu, but first we have to get ourselves settled. Most of us were glad to find out that there were laundry facilities available. It's amazing how things that are usually considered undesirable chores become luxuries when traveling. We also took the opportunity to do some personal shopping…for groceries, food, toiletries, etc.

After some rest and home cooked food, we made our way to sound check. The venue is close to the hotel, so we can walk if we wish.

The energy in sound check is really high and you can see everyone's individual desire to learn more about his or her instruments and about the immense body of work produced by the boss.

At show time, you can almost feel the energy, as everyone is anxious to get to work and bring the people what they've been waiting for all summer long. When we launch into Jah no Dead, you can feel the audience pulsate…ready to give as well as get and the evening is full of energy exchange. It's unbelievable. We gave all we had and the people gave all they could in return. A night of pure magic.

24 August 2001 - En route to Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
On the way to Winnipeg, hanging out at the airport… Stewie, Bassie, Cecil and Tedo are rocking to a classic Burning Spear tune (Civilize Reggae). This tune was totally ahead of its time. You could look at their faces, body lingo and know something's really rocking hard. It has all the ingredients needed to keep you movin'. Horn lines that are intricate, yet accessible, bass line driving, simply, but with 'nuff soul. And of course, The Burning Spear just lighting up the vocals. Everybody wants to make a copy of it. These times make waiting two hours for a flight melt away. Before you know it, you're boarding the plane.

Of course, I couldn't walk past them and not get a listen for myself… musical airline food. The best kind.

24 August 2001 - Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
Things are held up a while, as everyone waits to see if the warnings about the rain will come true. We're on the bank of the Muddy River, which is where the festival takes its name. It doesn't look so muddy this night, but it's still standing water and that means mosquitoes. A few of us use the insect repellent that's available. For those who didn't use it, there will be a night of playing and swatting. James and Mikey each have towels draped over their shoulders for cover. If this were a rehearsal, it would be the perfect concentration drill, but this is the real thing and a few of us had bites to show for our dedication.

In spite of this natural obstacle, professionalism and personal pride win out and the audience gets a good show for their trouble. It's a good thing there weren't mics on everyone's skin

Onward, to Red Rocks…

25 August 2001 - Denver CO: Red Rocks
Of all the places that take their names from their character, this is it! Red Rocks is just what it sounds like… you seem to be in a bowl, whose walls are these majestic red rocks. I've never seen anything like it. Some of the mountains seem consciously conceived, while others are seemingly arbitrary in their design. Some are polished looking and still others retain a rough-hewn character. Just looking at them makes you want to find yourself at the top of one overlooking this wonderful country. Jah Creation…

This is the perfect setting for a night of serious reggae music.

Yellowman's show was where I arrived at the venue. You had to marvel at his energy and steadiness in the midst of it all. Just one rocking tune after another… the undisputed king of reggae DJ's, in my mind. Dancehall artists, take some notes! Yellow is the man!

By the time our time had arrived, everyone was in a state of total anticipation…the Burning One would soon be here.

We start with Jah No Dead and from his first word, Mr. Rodney had the many hundreds in the palm of his hand! I think they were pretty pleased with way they were handled. By the time we launched into 'Man in the Hills', it was plain that magic would be made tonight.

Here we all were, celebrating to the rhythm of Jah Word…amidst all the splendor of Jah Creation…audience, man woman an child… the band bringing musical fire, in support of the Burning Spear.

What a day!! Reggae on the Rocks…with a twist of magic, the music of King Yellowman and of course, the highlight of the evening…Burning Spear. Who could want more?

Jah Guide…Keep the Spear Burning.

26 August 2001 - Boulder CO: Fox Theatre
This is the first of a rare two-night stand.

This part of Boulder is strictly a college town, and the composition of the audience reflects it. As a matter of fact, a University of Colorado football game almost delayed the start of the show. A good number of the ticket holders were at the football game.

Somehow, the generally raucous atmosphere of college sports gave way completely, to a vibe that was just short of church.

The show, itself was 'Burning' as usual and the crowd didn't hesitate to show their appreciation. Beautiful vibes, all around…

By the time we hit the stage, only a small barrier separated the band from the audience. A couple of young women managed to get past the barrier and security. I guess they were tapping into their 'fifteen minutes of fame'. The band kept up the groove and didn't miss a beat as the crowd gave as well as they got, and believe it, they got the best. Only tomorrow will compare.

27 August 2001 - Boulder CO: Fox Theatre
Usually, second nights are the ones where bands can seem tired or listless. That was certainly not the case tonight.

Judge Roughneck warmed the crowd up with their unique blend of ska, R&B, and funk. The audience ate it up. I personally, made a point of catching their whole show. I totally loved it!

The crowd seemed to double in the time it took to change over from one band setup to another. The placed looked a stadium shrunken to scale, so it would fit into the room. Right away, we could see tonight would be different from the previous. First, the crowd let themselves be seen as soon as the doors opened. None of that football business tonight…

The set list was no more than a piece of paper this evening. Mr. Rodney just knew what the crowd wanted and led the band into tunes that delivered. No set list could do that! The audience witnessed a true master of music at work this night. He moved the crowd to his will and they loved it. Every tune he called helped drive the emotional pitch toward its eventual crescendo. I can't even begin to remember the order of the tunes we played; all I can remember is that the band and audience felt like dance partners. Each would take a turn leading, taking each other to new places within. By the time I came down from this high, we were on the bus en route to Vail.

30 August 2001 - Taos, NM
Sometimes, living in one place year-round can make a person forget how varied the physical and cultural landscape of this country is. Just yesterday, we were in a ski village, a place that would soon be covered in white powder and those who play in it. Today we're here in the desert. No one is expecting snow or even cold weather any time soon…at least not during the day. Deserts are known for being cold at night. Tonight is no exception, and everyone goes for their long sleeves (to protect them from the desert chill).

When we get to the venue, El Taoseno, there'll be time to warm up and before you know it, everybody will be rocking to the beat of the hottest Reggae artist in the world.

1 September 2001 - Breckenridge, CO: Sherpa & Yeti's
Everybody's getting a real feel for the mountain landscape and the altitude. Maybe we were waiting for our bodies to adjust… When we first got to Colorado, everyone was wary of the possible effects of the 'thin' air on people. If you look for them, you can always find an oxygen tank…but for now, we seem to all be getting stronger. Becoming 'mountain men'.

6:30/soundcheck
Another day of fine-tuning some parts of our execution. A dose of reality…this isn't all fun and games. There's real work going on here. Everyone appreciates the extra discipline it takes to stay alert to detail, especially Mr. Rodney. He seems to have enough discipline for all of us. You can't say on top in this business for more than thirty years without it. You can feel the extra concentration in the air. Stewie is voicing some chords differently in order to illustrate how a melody should sound against the rhythm section…gives the ear something else to grab onto. (It's like learning how to hear again.) James is demonstrating some nuances in articulation in the opening of 'Old Marcus'. You can never do this job too well…there's always room for improvement. Now's the time to do it…

2 September 2001 - Jackson, WY: Grand Targhee Resort
Outside again!! I think we're starting to get spoiled! Everybody's up for this one. Every show is different and outside, under the sun, or moon, stars, or a cloudy sky, it all seems to be part of the magical spiritual environment Reggae belongs to. It seems to bring us closer to the source. there's no indoor trappings to interfere with the connection to nature. cigarette smoke can't find it's way to the stage…the cool, clear air brings out her best in people.

4 September 2001 - Ketchum, ID: Whiskey Jacques
Looking forward to re-uniting with old friends…Burning Spear and his Burning Band is back with some Burning Reggae. We're covering this land at incredible speed. These reunions are always short, sweet and musical. The world show know that the message is always brought to the people when hear the Burning Spear.

5 September 2001 - Laramie, WY: University of Wyoming
Lovely outdoor venue. One of those double-edged weather days. it's so nice to be playing outdoors, but at the same time the weather poses its own challenges. Musical instruments are temperature sensitive, which usually means that cold weather makes an instrument play sharp, or high and heat makes the same instrument go flat,or low. So, while it's nice to be outside, it's also a major challenge just keeping our instruments in tune.

Still, the show must go on and we have a large group of anxious students here, who can't wait for some Burning Reggae. No one is disappointed. The band is ready and of course, Mr. Rodney has something special cooked up the for University of Wyoming.

6 September 2001: Salt Lake City, UT
A rare and welcome day off! An opportunity to practice, watch TV or a movie…possibly speak to the folks at home, or write that letter you keep promising…and for all a chance to quietly marvel at the magnitude of this blessing: life, good health, the opportunity to do what we love most, and to do it alongside the Burning Spear!

Quiet time on the road is hard to come by; there's so much to do so much work related stuff to think about…parts to fine-tune, new parts to learn, the constant effort to expand, get better on your instrument. To use the name of the Jimmy Stewart movie: "It's a wonderful life." But it's not easy! Jah work must be done… But even the most fun loving children must eventually give their bodies a rest. As James would say, "You have to give the battery a charge."

A couple of the guys went down the street to Zephyr, where we play tomorrow. They wanted to hear the band that plays tonight…I'm so tired, I don't remember the name of the band. I guess James or someone will tell me. I wanna hear how they were.

7 September 2001 - Salt Lake City, UT: The Zephyr
We all know that most clubs we play in have other bands and other audiences at different times, but somehow it's interesting to watch from the outside…last night's country crowd will give way to tonight's family of die-hard Reggae fans…the conversation will be different, the style of dress and the character of the whole night

I arrive at our dressing room with a new perspective about this touring life. There are those who chose this music over all others, and Burning Spear is amongst the main reasons tonight's audience is a Reggae audience. We're living a wonderful blessing and have a responsibility to match: Bring the message of the Burning Spear to the people.

8 September 2001 - Truckee, CA (Really, Tahoe City)
As I write, I can hear Mr. Rodney's voice through my window. Can't make out what he's saying, but I can hear that distinctive laugh from time to tie. A laugh like that has to be real. How can a man who works so hard for so many people be so happy? Then again, how can he not? I go to the window, thinking I'll get outside and share a laugh…to late. A small dose of the Spear humor, for those in the right place at the right time…

Also ran into members of Third World, who were checking out as we checked in. They're on their way to San Diego for the Street Scene tomorrow. Those of us, who knew members personally had some time to catch up and share some memories, those like myself, got a chance to meet them for the first time. One of the many blessing of this career and this job in particular, is that we get to meet the greats in this business.

9 September 2001 - San Diego, CA: Street Scene
It seems sometimes that everyone can appreciate an outdoor Reggae concert. Today's festivities will include the Revelations, Third World and Burning Spear.

The previous night's drive seems to have left some of us drained, but that will change shortly. Playing to a capacity crowd has a way of energizing everyone. The anticipation of showtime revitalizes everyone, since this is what we're here for. We're just as ready as the audience…

Coming down from Truckee took several hours. I'm starting to get anxious. You can only fill so much time with movies, books and dominoes. Playing to enthusiastic capacity crowds is so energizing that leaving town right away can really be hard. You may feel as though you've made a roomful of new friends or run into old ones. And now, less than 3 hours after the end of a show, you're sitting on a bus. Don't get me wrong…the bus is great. And the company of the band members is excellent, too. But sometimes, the body just can not sit any longer. Then I look at Mr. Rodney; he's done this for more than thirty years!! That lets me know I can do this for the Summer.

11 September 2001 - Santa Barbara, CA
I wake up to news of a suicide bombing of the World Trade Center Towers. It's just so hard to believe that someone would actually do such a thing. It's the only story on the news. Everyone is trying frantically to locate loved ones. There's just no making sense of this kind of thing. The horror of this will test the faith of many among us in this country. The pictures are incredible; they look like a movie, but we all are starting to understand that it's true.

The terrorist attack is affecting more than the financial world, and not only those who live in New York. The closings of all US airports threatens to leave us without a bassist since Dave Richards is home on business. There's a good chance he'll be stuck until air travel resumes.

Showtime
Well, it's showtime and, due to circumstances beyond our control, Cecil will be filling in for Dave 'Don King' Richards…

It turns out that Cecil is a real 'soldier'. I don't know how he did it, but he filled in for Dave and didn't miss a beat. It must have been more than challenging, considering how accustomed he must be to doing his job as lead guitarist. The two take such a different set of skills.

12 September 2001 - En route to Arcata, CA: Arcata Theater
News from yesterday is real…The absence of Dave, and his laugh and general attitude are proof enough, not to mention, his musicianship. This thing is on everyone's mind, as it should be. There were just so many innocent people in those buildings…

Tedo is up in the common area of the bus listening to classic R&B. His knowledge of this kind of music is amazing…the resident musicologist. A few of us sit and pass around CD jackets telling us who we're listening to…or you could just ask Tedo. He knows.

At the same time, Sylvan, or 'Deep', as we call him, is doing his thing at the microwave. Deep can make a good meal out of just about anything that's fit to eat. And if he gets his hands on some really good ingredients, he'll cook up something worthy of the best Jamaican restaurant. I call him the 'Microwave King.' Dread at the controls…

The clean air and laid back atmosphere of Northern California is getting into our systems…smoke free indoor air that even a smoker can appreciate…lots of green, healthy vegetation and a lifestyle that seems to encourage clean living.

We get some rest and prepare for showtime…the people will need something else to think about. This will be Cecil's second night as bassist. I've got to get him to share a story or two…

13 September 2001 - Ukiah, CA: Ukiah Brewery
After a rare short drive from Arcata, the tension level is noticeable less; it seems people are starting to digest the reality of things in this world in a different way. You can feel a new quiet kind of awareness of our blessings in such troubled times. It seems that the message is arriving to everyone in just the nick of time.

Burning Spear's arrival is a major event for everyone. There are people who missed the show the last time we were in town and have decided not to let that happen this year. There are of course, the die hard fans who wouldn't miss it for the world, and then there are the first timers. Everybody seems to be out for this one. Burning Spear and his Burning Band will not disappoint them. Mr. Rodney has prepared something special for the people here. Another day of counting blessings, and preparing to do Jah's work. The music is in the message…the message is in the music.

14 September 2001 - San Francisco, CA: Maritime Hall
It's good to be 'home' for me. I've been looking forward to this for some time, now. This is my chance to let the friends and family know that I've done well and that I'm playing with the living legend of Reggae music. Also got a chance to do some shopping for those items that can best be found in the City by the Bay.

This beautiful city has some fine Caribbean restaurants and the hotel is not far from the venue. There are so many familiar places and faces that this has the feeling of home coming for most of us. It feels almost like a day off, but soundcheck lets us know that there's work to be done today. And Dave's return will take some of the pressure off of Cecil. He wore it well, just like a trooper. Big up, Cecil!!

15 September 2001 - Santa Cruz, CA
A cool, rainy day in Northern California. You can smell the trees. The land is begging for Reggae music, and guess who's in town? Burning Spear and his Burning Band. Today, I'm doubled up with James. We do well as roommates. Brass player thing, as well as being bredren.

The computers we ordered last week arrived today and both of us are ready to get to work on ours. I'm eager to get my journal entries out, and James has his thing he likes to do. Our laptops offer a ready link to friends and family, through e-mail and a means of doing other things, as well.

Unfortunately, mine had to go back; it had a defective hard drive and I'm beyond frustrated. But what can you do? These things happen. I decide to go to the post office to send some things home. It'll take my mind off the computer thing…

James had steak for dinner, which seems to be one of the ways he treats himself. The brother really knows his steak…almost as well as he knows his coffee.

16 September 2001 - Dana Point, CA: Doheny State Beach
We're having bus trouble. It seems to be the radiator and we don't know, right now, how long it will be before we get moving.

Two hours later
The radiator is fixed and we can move. It promises to be a long drive, and a couple of us started getting antsy. But now, we can get back to our respective routines. It seems everyone has a ritual for long drives. For Tedo, Deep, Virgo and Dave, it starts with a spirited game of dominoes.

Sometimes Clyde, the tenor saxophonist, joins them. James, Gillie, Cecil, Stewie and myself are usually watching a music DVD and critiquing what we see and hear. A few hours later everyone except Mike is asleep. Mike usually keeps the driver company. Mike used to be a driver himself, some time ago, and it helps to have someone knowledgeable riding shotgun on long drives. We don't often say it, but I think we all appreciate Mike sacrificing sleep to basically help with the drive. 'Nuff respect, Drummie.

We finally arrive in Dana Point. We can't wait to get to our rooms. It's been hours since we left Santa Cruz, and people are aching to take showers and catch up on phones calls, naps, etc…

The venue, itself is along the boardwalk, in a room that resembles a banquet hall. Acoustical challenges, for sure. It feels kind of strange…the vibe of the surrounding environment is like an amusement park. Somewhere, amongst the glitter and noise of arcade machinery, is a spot reserved especially for the town's reggae audience and the place will be Burning!!

17 September 2001 - Sacramento, CA
Walked in mall, did post office errands and noticed the immediate change in security procedures, including the presence of metal detectors. The venue is even taking a page out of that book and searching patrons at the door.

18 September 2001 - Eugene, OR: McDonald Theatre
It was a long ride. One where everybody helped the other get through. No one could really stretch out, as we would have on the 'Streak', comfortable in our bunks. No microwave, or refrigerator. 'Absence makes the heart grow fonder.' We can't wait to get off the bus and into our rooms, where we can get a short nap, since we didn't get in as soon as we would have liked…actually we got in about four hours later than we would have otherwise.

19 September 2001 - en route to Portland, OR

Early morning (about 6am)
The bus has returned. Had to transfer all our belongings back to their original places after not knowing how long it would be before the 'Silver Streak' would meet us again. We're happy about the reunion. Now, it's time to head out en route to Portland, Oregon.

On the way, we're treated to what we call "Gillie Punch", after Gillie Spence, the rhythm guitarist. I think the ingredients are sweet corn (not cream corn), sweet evaporated milk, Guiness Stout, oats and nutmeg…blended with tender loving care. To borrow the words of James: 'When he gets that recipe going, there's nothing else happening.' After a mug of Gillie's special blend, sleep comes easily. I'll wake up in Portland.

19 September 2001 - Portland, OR: Roseland
Soundcheck
Mr. Rodney introduces the band to a classic: 'People Get Ready'. Actually he showed us some of this last week, but now, he's showing us in greater detail, the overall structure of the tune. He arranges a horn line, since the original didn't have a horn track. It's amazing how he seems to have the musical ideas right when they're needed. He scat sings the line and James puts it on paper. The process is lightning quick and within three minutes the horn section has a new assignment and we can actually play. You can hear the tune take shape…can't wait to get this one on stage.

20 September 2001 - Seattle, WA: The Showbox
James and I ride the mono rail
We're still on a 'high' from the Portland show. The vibe was so nice. Now, it's time to spread it around…there's an audience in Seattle just waiting to get in on the act!

Being here shows me how little I know about the character of different cities in this giant country of ours. I always imagined Seattle as this sleepy green village in the middle of Washington State. Instead I found a major metropolitan center with all the ingredients of any other big city…all except the noise. That was really a big surprise. My mind never seems able to separate noise from city life. James and I take the monorail to the show. It's a good way to see some of the sights of Seattle without losing time.

On the other hand, the land is green and smells good. There's also a no smoking rule in effect in the venue and other places. It's good for the lungs of horn players and vocalists. Clean air helps make clean music…

22 September 2001 - Boise, ID: Big Easy
James and I double up again. I think that will be the case for the next couple of days. It makes you really appreciate not only the times when you have your own room, but the company of each other as well. Often the personal vibe between musicians has a huge impact on the music you make when you come together. Unity is one of the things Mr. Rodney emphasizes, and it really pays when there's unity among people. Unity is strength…

23 September 2001
13:00
We're hanging out on the bus, waiting for a replacement,since this one has broken down. You can see on everyone's faces that they will miss their home away from home. We've gotten so used to it…everyone has their own bed…their own personal space. Now, we're expecting a sit-down bus without beds, without microwave oven and without running water, for drinking washing and/or cooking. Separation anxiety is probably next…fortunately, the wait will be short, both for the replacement and the return of our beloved "Silver Streak." Both James and myself are busy w/our computers making MP3 conversions of some of our favorite tunes for later listening. Perfect for the times when you just have to 'get away from it all'. And of course, I'm writing to you, the thousands of Burning Spear fans worldwide. We've taken some time to critique last night's show and for the most part, everyone is in agreement that the show went well. The audience was hyped and ready for a real party, and they got what they were after.

15:30
Finally a bus has arrived to take us the remainder of the way to our rest stop. since we're traveling for more than a day, we'll cut the drive in half; part today and the rest tomorrow. That will allow us to rest and still get to Minneapolis on time. The time was basically used for rest and relaxation; James and I tossed the football around for a while and worked up a little sweat, while Virgo tried to remedy a problem with the satellite TV hookup; it's football season and neither Virgo, James or myself want to miss anything if we don't have to.

15:45
It turns out that Virgo is listening to one of the football games on the radio; he bought a clock radio a couple of days ago and it's coming in handy. what else is a football fan to do…

24 September 2001 - Minneapolis, MN: First Ave.
Immediately upon arrival, we get a taste of the change in seasons. Minneapolis is chilly and we imagine what winter must be like. It's a stone's throw from Canada and the Canadian breeze envelopes us. It's not surprising that it feels like winter already. You look at the calendar and realize that winter is just around the corner and for those of us who live in or around New York, this is only a preview of what is to come at the end of the tour.

Minneapolis is a place with a vibrant musical culture and its share of local stars, Prince being the most notable of them. These places motivate us to perform at an even higher level, since we know the kind of music the people are accustomed to. We can't wait to show them, once again, that we fit amongst them.

25 September 2001 - Ferndale, MI: The Magic Bag
The long drive from Minneapolis to Ferndale emphasizes the importance of mental conditioning as well as physical. You need to have a means of entertaining yourself when the ride is longer than an hour or two. This is generally the life of the traveling musician…unfortunately most don't get a chance to do their traveling in a comfortable bus with people they like, the way we do.

The percussion of dominoes fills the living room area of the bus and mingles with the smell of Sylvan's home-away-from-home style meals. I don't know how he does it. He cooks as well in a microwave oven as most of us could on a full featured stove…

Of course, Tedo is keeping the mood right with a great combination of humor and music. You may not hear them when the band hits the stage, but these two Rastamen make life on the road a whole lot easier.

26 September 2001 - Bloomington, IN: Axis
Today I use the downtime provided by the long drive hang out with Cecil; we have a lot of good laughs. His personality is really easy going, but you know he has a strong serious side. It's also fun listening to him talk about his favorite musicians; his language is colorful and humorous. We're constantly exchanging ideas about this guitarist or that…I basically egg him on so I can get some info.

Today is going to move slowly…it takes concentration to keep it that way, but today is one of those days when conserving energy is the thing to do. I stay in my room after running a few mundane errands and practicing…

27 September 2001 - Knoxville, TN: Sundown In The City
Great outdoors! Reggae music!
We're coming to the end of the festival scheduling for this tour. This one has lots of different flavors to it. It's not happening in the countryside, but in the middle of the Downtown section of town. This is a country music town, but the reggae faithful are out in large numbers for the Burning Spear show. In fact, from some of the conversation, I learn that the country music public actually has a lot of reggae fans. Well, we're gonna give you something to whoop and holler about!!

28 September 2001 - Chattanooga, TN: Nightfall
The ride today wasn't so long and we all came off the bus without that antsiness that comes from long drives. It didn't hurt that we got a glass of 'Gillie punch' to smooth out some of the bumps along the way, or that Sylvan worked some of his patented magic in the 'kitchen' and some of us got a really good home-style meal. It reminded me of the time he cooked up some escovich fish with some rice and peas and fried plantain. Mr. Rodney said it was some of the best food he's had on the road, and he isn't easy to please. I have to agree with him.

We were also greeted by Morty and Hamsa, our friends from Fayetteville, Arkansas. It's always good to see them.

29 September 2001 - Atlanta, GA: The Tabernacle
Excellent vibe here. Atlanta has a feel that's hard to come by; a real forward looking vibe. For a visitor, it feels like Atlanta is trying to drag the rest of the country into the twenty-first century.

True to their tradition of southern hospitality, we're greeted at the hotel by friends of Burning Spear…another indication of the lives he has touched over the years. The people remember and want to express their appreciation.

30 September 2001 - Huntsville, Al: Big Spring Jam
The place feels like an extension of Nashville, Tennessee, with its underlying emphasis on country/western music. It seems everywhere you go, you hear it on the radio. I guess it's one of the varieties of roots music that is native to these United States. Actually, it's good to see people into their music the same way we're into reggae.

Closer to the concert venue, the atmosphere is one of a giant carnival; there are countless booths and vendors selling anything from cowboy boots, and American flags to crocodile kabobs. I actually tried one and liked it. James and I bought barbequed turkey wings from a man across from the hotel and walked the roughly half mile to the stage. On the way he remarked that Smokey Robinson was to play as well, but on a different stage and at the same time as us. As great as it is to encounter the other great musicians that we do, it's equally disappointing to miss them when we know they are in town at the same time.

The band that played right before us was a country band…I can't remember their name; it seems I'm not very good at that. I do remember that they sounded really good and that they had a female bass player. I tried to imagine the kinds of dues she must have paid to find a place in that musical community. When they finished, it seemed like an intersection, where the cars are different each time the light catches them. It seemed like all the country music folks had left and were replaced by reggae faithful. It only seemed that way, though. As we left the stage, there were several who remarked at how they hadn't heard reggae music before and that they would have to get as much as possible, now that they've been a part of the Burning experience.

2 October 2001 - Colombia, SC: Elbow Room
After a travel day, it's time for what will start as a shopping day. Tedo spots a pawn shop across the street from the hotel and I spot a laundromat. He and Virgo find some serious bargains on video equipment. Actually Sylvan found something too.

The venue being across the street allows a lot of exploration of the general area and makes for a pretty relaxed prelude to showtime.

Feels like a college crowd…might be a college nearby, but I didn't see it, or evidence other than the apparent age of the people.

The room has challenging acoustics and Virgo will have to call on some of his patented magic for this one. Some rooms are friendlier to a musician than others. The energy of the audience is incredible tonight. Real give and take happens and it feels great…!

3 October 2001 - Chapel Hill, NC: Cat's Cradle
Another of the really fun stops on the tour. They all have something special, but I like Chapel Hill because of the friends we meet up with after a year's time. James has friends and family in the area and we get to meet some of them. It's fun watching them interact.

People seem to come from all around for this show. We meet a large group of people from Boone and another group from Asheville, who have moved to Chapel Hill. Tonight's show will be well worth the wait and worth the time spent getting here.

4 October 2001 - Charleston, SC: Music Farm
Here, we get more evidence of the fan base that literally follows the Burning Spear whenever and where ever possible. So many of the fans come up and tell about the shows they've attended throughout the week and how much they enjoyed themselves. It's good to know that we've taken part in spreading this most important message.

The venue itself is like a place that belongs on a farm and they have a slogan that says: 'Spirited music harvested nightly'. This night will certainly fit that description…and the audience will testify to that!

6 October 2001 - Norfolk, VA: The Boathouse
We arrive on a rainy day in Norfolk to play the Boathouse. This is one of the annual shows that we all remember…we may forget the name of the place and where it is before we arrive, but as soon as we get to the parking lot, the memory is refreshed and we navigate as if we were there every night. A lot of the people who play in local reggae bands are anxious to see the Master of Music in action. No one seems to know how he does it year after year, album after album, concert after concert. I think it's a gift from Jah, a mission from Jah…Jah work must be done.

7 October 2001 - Asheville, NC: Asheville Music Zone
Asheville is sunny and warm, the ride was pleasant and we arrive in high spirits. The venue is in walking distance, which means everyone can move a little slower, steal a couple extra minutes to finish a shower or phone call and still be on time for sound check and showtime. Conversation begins to find its way to talk about the tour's end. There are fewer than three weeks left. We'll have an early departure so we conserve our energy for the show; everyone will get some sleep on the bus.

8 October 2001 - Hilton Head, SC
As we begin on our way, Sylvan helps me cook some food in the microwave. Later, Sylvan got sick. The look on his face makes me worry that it might be really serious, but I'm no expert, and I'll have to wait just like everyone else to find out if it is. It's hard to think about anything else. I haven't know him long, but we all love him and no one wants to guess.

Later:
Sylvan is going to see a doctor. He's still not feeling well. Good Luck. Jah Guide

9 October 2001 - Wilmington, NC: Marzz
Roughly 9am: we're still waiting for Sylvan to return from hospital…the suspense and worry are getting to us, but everyone has a straight face and tries not to show it. At about 10, we go get him from the hospital. He gets a clean bill of health and there's a collective sigh of relief. Everyone tries to joke about it, but you know we're all glad to see him well again. God is Great…Jah Live!

11 October 2001 - Fayetteville, AR: Dave's on Dickson
We've had a long drive, as usual. This one was the better part of 18 hours and it seems everyone is getting restless, this time. Usually, we're able to occupy ourselves with dominoes, or movies, etc. This time the wear and tear of several long drives is starting to tell. It's little things, like people getting off the bus where they otherwise might have stayed on. It's a great bus, but after 18 or 19 hours, you just want to stop moving. As soon as the bus door closes, the vibe changes…stretching begins, we explore the area for stores and restaurants…it's one of those days where the rain comes and goes and you don't know if you're going to get caught in it or not. Fortunately, the venue is within walking distance of the hotel and the air isn't cold.

There's no sound check today, so there's a little extra time to practice. That time won't get wasted today.

We go to Hastings Records for a signing. I always like these occasions. It's a time when the fans get to meet Mr. Rodney and his soldiers in an environment that is totally different…there are people around who have no exposure to reggae music who are wondering who this visiting celebrity is. It's a lot quieter and we get to give each fan some individual attention. It's a fitting prelude to the night that's to come. The importance of Burning Spear to his public is emphasized by the look on each patron's face as they get their autographed CD's or posters, or even bring in copies of classic Burning Spear vinyl for a signature. It's the perfect transition from hotel to stage…

12 October 2001 - Austin, TX: Flamingo Cantina
James and I room together again. We have a room with a view of Downtown Austin, and the mind can't help comparing it with other big cities. The skyline is amazing.

And again, today James has a reunion with an old friend; a fellow trumpeter from his days in Texas. Actually, this visitor looks really familiar to me. For the most part, I just observe their interaction and wonder where I may have met him before. Only the call to sound check gets him off my mind.

13 October 2001 - New Orleans, LA: House of Blues
Another great reunion with the Burning Spear and his fans in New Orleans. Also another chance to sample the great local cuisine, Dixieland Jazz, Zydeco and New Orleans culture, in general. The senses work overtime…sights, sounds, smells. It 's all there in the Big Easy. (It's another city that never sleeps.) There seems to be a party going on at all times.

The general feel of the city makes one feel at home in the larger community of musicians. So many of the places we play don't seem to have a very lively music scene, but New Orleans is a place that not only has a thriving a music scene, but a musical legacy that you just have to experience. We get a chance to catch some of the local acts between check-in and sound check and again before the show. It's energizing and somewhat daunting to realize that in this life we have actually gotten to work with one of the all-time greats in music. In a city where everybody knows their music and the standards are very high, everyone knows about Burning Spear.

16 October 2001 - Woodstock, NY: Bearsville
Getting closer and closer to home…everything seems more familiar. At least for those of us who live on the East Coast. Winter is approaching and the landscape is totally different from that of the Midwest, the South or the West at this time of year. It's more familiar.

The bittersweet reality of tour's end is approaching with the winter chill. I can more readily imagine what the weather will be like when the tour is finished, or what the days will be like without soundcheck and shows to do each night…without the company of one's band mates.

Showtime:
Cecil is in fine form tonight. It seems everyone has a particular night when they shine just a little brighter than others. It sounds like all the stuff he has worked on this tour is beginning to pay off. Maybe it's not even that…maybe it's just that I'm listening a little more closely. Whatever it is, the audience is picking up on something, as well. His solo on 'Old Marcus' is especially on point. Big up, Cecil!

17 October 2001 - Boston, MA: Roxy
The drives between venues are becoming shorter all the time. We're on the final turn toward home and the end of this year's tour. You can tell everyone will miss the routine and the company of fellow band mates. No one really wants it to end; we may want some rest, but before anyone knows it, we'll be missing the road and the stage. Got a chance to meet some of the members of The Itals, who opened the show. Stephen and Dave know them personally, so they had a chance to do some catching up.

Once again, the weather here serves as a preview of what is to come for those of us who live on the East coast. Not looking forward to that, either.

Tonight's show will keep everything in perspective; it's really the music and the audience that counts…

19 October 2001 - Keene, NH: Colonial
It never ceases to amaze me that some of the most remote locations in this country have thriving, die-hard reggae communities…members of which simply can't wait to see the Spear when he brings his Burning Band into town. But, a closer look makes it plain that Burning Spear has spread the seeds of this message and music and the winds have blown them far and wide. It's times like this, that people all over the country reap the harvest. Harvest season this year is coming to a close and no one wants to be left out.

Did I say something about 'remote locations'? Once we're inside the venue, it seems like a place one would find in New York or San Francisco. There's really nothing small town about it. They obviously know something that I don't. The place is packed and the crowd is more than ready.

So is Burning Spear! Mek we dweet!

20 October 2001 - Philadelphia, PA: Electric Factory
Electric, indeed! After several shows in rural or suburban settings, we're taking the show back to Urban America. The flavor is so different, the noise level, the accents, even the food that can be had. If nothing else, touring shows us how diverse this country really is, how no two audiences could ever be the same. And indeed, no two Burning Spear concerts are ever the same.

The City of Brotherly Love will see evidence of that tonight.

21 October 2001 - Washington DC: The Nation
The nation's capital…what else can one really say? It seems only appropriate that the capital should play host to the reigning elder statesman of reggae music…that the airspace would be flooded with the message of Rastafari…a message of hope for this troubled world.

One can't help but think back to September 11 when coming in. There's an obvious military presence and you can imagine what the people are thinking and praying. When looking at the faces of the people we meet, you can't help but want to ask how they feel about things, and at the same time discretion dictates that one allows people to volunteer their thoughts and feelings. People are coming together to heal themselves and they will be helped in that effort by Burning Spear and his Burning Band.

Unlike so many other nights, when someone asks where we'll be playing tomorrow, the answer comes easily. One more show, and the North American leg of the Don't Hurt the Rastaman tour will be finished. I think we'll all miss it.

22 October 2001 - New Haven, CT: Toad's Place
The last stop on this year's North American tour. It's been fantastic. So full of great memories. We've met and reunited with so many of Burning Spear's fans…it feels like we're taking a place in history sometimes. And maybe, that's true. It's certainly a once in a lifetime experience!

Toad's Place is one of the more familiar stops on the tour and the fans arrive with still-fresh memories of the last time they were able to catch Burning Spear…it's as if the vibe from last year or earlier has left a burning desire for a repeat performance. New Haven will be changed by this night's Burning experience.

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Closing words:
Well, my friends. It's time for me to sign off for at least another tour season, and hopefully no more than that. This year has been a memorable one for so many reasons. There are so many people to thank. I would like to use this space to thank some of them, but first I will apologize for those whose names I may not include. You really are important.

First, thanks must always be given to the Most High, Jah Rastafari, without whose blessings none of this would be possible. Then to Mr. Rodney for giving us all the opportunity of a lifetime. Who would have ever thought that I would be playing behind a true living legend, or that he would find a place in this great work for someone like me?? It is truly an honor. I could never thank you enough for the guidance and personal advice. Everyone should have an employer like you. We would all be less without you. Also to Mrs. Rodney, who keeps things together from the home office like no one else ever could. They say that beside every great man is a great woman…somehow I think they were referring to Mr. and Mrs. Rodney.

I need to thank all the band members for their support and suggestions…everyone. Stephen Stewart for his discipline and focus in running rehearsals and sound checks, as well as wicked keyboard work. James and Clyde for being great 'running mates' in the Burning Brass, Mike and Dave for providing the Drum and Bass backbone that all reggae music relies so heavily upon as well as humor and reasoning to keep us going. Big up, to Cecil…crucial lead guitarist and great person, Gillie for the skank, the now famous Gillie Punch and so much more. Thanks would be incomplete without props to Tedo for unbelievable humor under all circumstances, a steady hand with merchandise and a readily available song to keep us all going, and to Sylvan for his quiet strength and steady hand with the logistics of keeping track of everyone and great cooking. No one else could have done it the way you have. Maximum Respect!!! And last, but certainly not least, to the countless fans who make it all worthwhile. You all give as good as you get!

Give Thanks.
Peace and Blessings to all. Don't Hurt the Rastaman! Keep the Spear Burning.
Prof. Out.