McNABB at NAMM

NAMM one week later

Who went? Who survived it?

After a general survey of the show Thursday the performance schedule kicked into full gear. That evening was the Bonzo Bash at Observatory(formerly Galaxy Theater). The spirit of John Bonham and Led Zeppelin was felt by all. www.observatoryoc.com/events/bonzo

Some of the greatest drummers and musicians in the world came together on one stage to honor Bonham and Zeppelin's music. Great job Bonzo Bash founder Brian Tichy and staff for putting together the 5th annual. It was an honor to be involved performing "The Rain Song." http://tomcarmichael.zenfolio.com/p52853822/h537#h53765fc8

Friday, started off with tagging along with the "Mrs" and Fox 11 News on their story on one-time Presidential candidate Mike Huckabee. Not only is he a politician and Fox News Channel host but also a bass player! We talked shop and traded a few licks at the Ernie Ball Music Man booth. I was completely impressed by his knowledge of music and when he pulled out a Grand Funk Railroad tune on bass I knew I had a new friend! And, yes, like the rockers, he too once had long hair!


After finding out at rehearsal for the evening's Living Legends jam that Chuck Negron had dropped out we quickly switched gears. Spencer Davis stepped in and performed two songs in Chuck's place. For the first time, The NAMM Show had a killer full-production stage outside in between the Hilton and Marriott hotels. Many thanks to David Harris and staff for bringing one of NAMM's best live concerts again this year. Over 30 performers graced the stage. Everyone from Blue Oyster Cult to Martha Davis(Motels). Musicians from MSG, Whitesnake, Joe Cocker, BB King and Queensryche etc. also hit the stage with an incredible two-hour show.

Saturday it was Dean Markley day while the "Mrs" went to a class on "Managing the band." In a weird twist, she too is taking on the music biz working with a hip hop artist, Nexus. He's a kid she knew from foster care and Fox 11's Wednesday's Child. He's a talented rapper. It's cool to help mentor a kid. Scatted some lead vocals on his track "Foxy Lil Lady". http://www.myfoxla.com/story/20809156/healing-through-hip-hop

Feeling blessed to be part of the Dean Markley family, an endorser for more than 15 years. The booth is a NAMM highlight. Signed autographs with friends Jeff Pilson(Foreigner) and Dave Amato(REO Speedwagon). On one side of us was Orianthi(Michael Jackson/Alice Cooper) and gearing up next Nikki Sixx(Motley Crue).  www.deanmarkley.com/



NAMM truly rocks because of the fans. They come from all over the world! To meet them face-to-face is an honor and a privilege! Without them, we are nothing. Always great hangin' with my musician buds and catching up.

If you love all things music and gear, The NAMM Show 2014 is the place to be! www.namm.org/thenammshow/2013

Anyone planning to go?  Here are five things I've learned over the years:

1.  Hotel room: Trying to commute every day is total BS! (LA traffic is a beast)

2.  Comfortable shoes: A must! (your dogs will be barking!) The Anaheim Convention Center is three floors.

3.  Breath mints/gum: You don't want to offend any rockstars while your getting your stuff signed! (Unless of course, their breath stinks) Hand sanitizer is a must!

4.  Know what booths you want to see in advance and get the NAMM app or guide so you can find them. (no worries, the Dean Markley is easy to find!)

5.  Know which parties and shows you want to attend so you can work on getting tickets or passes.
(the Mrs. regretted working Friday night and missed the Legends jam)