He's played with B.B. King. He's been nominated for a Grammy. He's been called Minnesota's most honored and recognized blesman. And he's coming to the Laramar to perform.
Big Walter Smith and The Groove Merchants are no strangers to the stage. Lizard Creek Blues Society President Bob Wood said, "Smith's 'velvet Chicago-style blues sound' should be an attraction to many."
"Big Walter Smith has been singing for more than 30 years," Wood said. "He was the first inductee into the Minnesota Blues Society Hall of Fame."
While Wood is looking forward to the concert, he said that Smith and his band say they are looking forward to playing at the Laramar.
"The historical significance always makes the Laramar a great location," Wood said.
Wood also said that Smith has an eight-member band and called the horn section outstanding.
"A lot of bands have a horn section, but not like this," he said.
The band has been together for more than 15 years, and Wood said that has played a large role in Smith's success.
"This is a very diversified group. There is a large instrument variety represented and it's pretty typical of some blues bands and different styles." Wood said, "You don't get to see a lot of horn sections in the Midwest."
While the Lizard Creek Blues Society is preparing to bring in Big Walter and the Groove Merchants, it also is working on the Blues Under the Trees Celebration, scheduled for later this summer.
