There are certain elements that can bring people of various backgrounds together. Music is one of them. Music has the ability to change any atmosphere just within the first few notes sung or played.
Music has always been an integral part of the African American community. During slavery times, slaves could be heard singing spirituals, as they worked in the fields…praying for a better day. It was also during these times that music was used to send coded messages, for those slaves who were planning their escape.
Inspired to celebrate an enduring art form, Kenny Gamble (producer/song writer), Ed Wright and Dyana Williams (artist and Gamble’s ex-wife) pursued creating Black Music Month. This would be a time whereas the achievements and contributions of musicians, composers, songwriters and singers could be celebrated. President Jimmy Carter decreed Black Music Month on June 7, 1979. However, it was not until years later when Williams asked President Bill Clinton to host a reception at the White House like President Carter did, it was revealed that Carter’s presidential proclamation had not been signed and the celebration was not officially on the books.
In 2000, Williams solicited bipartisan support to get this important bill passed. Both Philadelphia Congressman Chaka Fattah (Democrat) and Senator Arlene Specter (Republican) were instrumental in supporting Williams’ efforts, to make Black Music Month official.
Now on the local front, Speakin’ Out News would like to contribute to the Black Music Month celebration by recognizing one of Huntsville’s finest musicians and recording studio owner, George West. West is the owner of the Musician’s Workshop, located at 3400 Blue Spring Road, Huntsville, Alabama. He has been in business for 15 years. His first studio was called Studio AV that was located in the Oakwood Plaza. As West’s business expanded, a larger studio was needed. He has been at his current location since 2009.
Music has always been a part of West’s DNA. His father was a gospel singer and guitar player. As West stated, he and his siblings would often “bang” on his father’s guitar and this is where their musical interest began.
The Russellville, Alabama native began playing professionally at the age of 15. He was a member of a band of high schoolers called the “Crystalites”. This small town band didn’t go unnoticed. Jerry Weaver, who was Aretha Franklin’s guitar player, noticed the band while in Muscle Shoals at the Sound and Fame event. Weaver evidentially left Aretha Franklin, started his own professional band and took West under his wings. This was West’s first big break. Weaver recorded his first album in Birmingham, Alabama at Fredrick Knight’s studio.
Unfortunately, West was drafted into the military before Weaver’s album was completed, but the draft actually ended up being a blessing in disguise. Because of West’s musical talents, he was able to interface with some world renowned musicians. He traveled to Europe, Japan, Italy, and of course throughout the United States.
West has played for so many bands, whereas he has lost count. As a certified music/guitar instructor, he was often tasked to start a music group at each of his assigned military posts. This would help the guys have some type of involvement versus just standing around.
Famous musicians such as guitarist Roland Gresham, Jay Logan and Devin (keyboard player) from Earth Wind and Fire and others have recorded under West’s musical roof. The Uptown Jazz Band and the Latin Rhythms Band with Louis Trevino both have West’s musical imprint. These local bands have opened for various acts at the Von Braun Center. Even though West has many performances under his belt, he has never recorded or produced his own music except when he recorded for local artist Shelly Williams. Producing his own music is a future goal of his.
At the Musician’s Workshop, West teaches guitar, bass guitar, drums, basic piano and offer voice lessons. The studio is also used as a rehearsal studio for groups. West’s services are requested on a daily bases. His clients range from the young age to the young at heart.
Before West calls it quits, he desires to produce five number one hits. He has produced five CDs this year. “Within those five CDs, I have a good feeling that there will be a couple number one hits,” West shared.
West is married and is the father of four children. Most of the time, the fruit doesn’t fall far from the tree. Only West’s oldest son had a musical interest, but the interest fizzled once he started raising his own family. Another son chose to play professional basketball and his two daughters pursued nursing careers.
When asked what advice can be given to an aspiring artist, West had this to say, “I can get the music recorded, but that is it. In order to get your music to the next level, get a good music publisher. This person will be the go-between the next level and the public (distributors, radio stations, stores, and concert performances).”
So, if you have a love for music and would like to record or learn to play an instrument, contact George West. He will get you on the right track.
