EL DORADO HILLS – The El Dorado Hills Chamber of Commerce is well underway with their plans for this years’ Heart of the Hills Blues Blast – set for Sat., May 10, 2025. The 2024 event sold-out – so be sure to get yours early and don’t miss this spectacular event featuring three different bands, all leading up to the Fabulous Thunderbirds on the green.
For over 30 years, The Fabulous Thunderbirds have been a defining American band, blending blues, rock, R & B, and other genres into a high-energy musical hybrid. Co-founder and lead vocalist/harmonica player Kim Wilson, continues to lead the band, which has evolved over time. Initially starting as a straight blues band, Wilson notes that the T-Birds now incorporate a wider variety of musical styles. The band is known for its exceptional musicianship and respect for blues legends, with Wilson being praised by Muddy Waters as his favorite harmonica player.
“To be in the T-Birds, you need to understand the different styles of music and different ways of playing,” Wilson comments. “You must be willing to adopt a more contemporary style. The guys we have not are able to do that.”
The band’s journey began in the 1970’s, when Wilsom moved from Goleta, California, to Austin, Texas, where he met Jimmie Vaughan and formed the T-Birds in 1974. Their first album, The Fabulous Thunderbirds (1979), was a blues classic, but subsequent albums, like Tuff Enuff (1986), brought in more rock and soul influences, with hits like “Tuff Enuff” and “Wrap It Up” reaching the Top 40. Despite lineup changes, including Vaughan’s departure in 1989, Wilson has kept the band going, and they continue to tour widely, performing at both blues festivals and rock venues.
The current band lineup includes: Kim Wilson (vocals, harmonica0, Johnny Moeller (guitar), Bob Welsh (piano/guitar, Rudy Albin (drums) Steve Kirsty (bass). Each member brings rich musical experience from diverse backgrounds, contributing to the band’s dynamic sound.
The bands’ new album, Struck Down, features 9 new songs co-written by Kim Wilson and Steve Strongman, as well as stellar cover of Memphis Minnie’s song “Nothin’ in Ramblin.” The album was produced by Kim Wilson, Steve Strongman and Glen Parrish and features guest musicians: Bonnie Raitt, Billy Gibbons, Mick Fleetwood, Taj Mahal, Elvin Bishop, Keb’ Mo’ and Terrance Simien – and was nominated for two Grammy Awards!
Don’t miss the chance to be part of this FABULOUS DAY – Heart of the Hills Blues Blast. In addition to the Fabulous Thunderbirds, the line up includes the great Albert Cummings as well as the Laurie Morvan Band.
Tickets and more information at: www.heartofthehillsmusicfest.org
All proceeds from this event will benefit the many programs of the El Dorado Hills Chamber – strengthening community and supporting local businesses!
