We are so pleased to feature the release of Burt Wilson's CD on Friday night, July 18th. This has got to be the talk of the town this week. Not only do we have the opportunity to feature Burt a.k.a. "Bubba" Wilson live in concert, we have the opportunity to pick up his new CD that evening! After the show Burt will be here signing Cd's! Get this....Jim Van Fleet will be joining us too. He is the honorary MC that evening...he may just make a guest appearance to sing also! Rumor has it Fiddlin' Jessy will be around that night, along with some other VIP's here in Central Florida.
Well that is all for now...we are all excited about Friday. I have included some history on Burt below....
Bubba "Whoopass" Wilson
Bubba "Whoopass" Wilson was born Donald Burton Wilson Jr. in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where he began honing his musical and comedic skills at an early age. After graduating from high school in 1973, he was one of the founding members of Clutch, the phenomenal 50s &60s-type show band, which toured extensively nationwide. Clutch was very widely known across the Southeast, and especially here in Florida. It was also during this time when the character of "Bubba" began taking shape.
During the 1980s, Burt created, scored, and produced the musical shows that were the cornerstone of the Showbiz Pizza Place chain, nationally. He also provided the loveable voice of “Fatz the Gorilla.” His combination of creativity, musical talent, and comedy delighted children and adults alike.
In 1984, the New Orleans World Fair opened -- with the theme song, "Mardi Gras City”, written by none other than Burt. His original song triumphed over compositions written by thousands of songwriters internationally, including people such as Dr. John, Aaron Neville, and Allan Toussaint. Actually, Burt had written two songs for the contest, and BOTH songs won -- being awarded 1st AND 2nd place, respectively.
By the early 1990s, Universal Studios, Florida, was the recipient of Burt's skills, where he was one of their showcase talents, singing and arranging music for the well-loved acapella group, "The Hollywood Hi-Tones." And, it was also here that Burt revived the character of "Bubba," to much success -- so much so that the character became the inspiration for the acapella country group,"The Country Review and Bubba Too."
In 2003, Burt (long-time, die-hard Beatles fan) entered his song “Southern Girl” into the nationally recognized John Lennon Songwriting Competition, and he was honored to receive “Best Runner-Up” in the Pop Category.
For the past 11 years, Burt has been a musician, comedian, and an integral part of the Monsters of the Morning, the #1 hit show during the 6 a.m.-11.a.m. slot on Real Radio, 104.1 Orlando, and heard nationwide on XM SATELLITE RADIO, Channel 152. There on the Monsters, he has been stretching his comedic legs as the character we have come to know and love as Bubba "Whoopass" Wilson, resident Cajun-Florida Redneck. He daily presents unique and humorous outlooks on life in a segment called "Correct Me If I'm Wrong," as well as writing, producing, arranging, and performing over 2,000 original songs (to date) for the show. Despite his reputation of being "slow on the uptake" (or possibly BECAUSE of that fact), "Bubba” has been a source of much amusement for both the listeners of the show AND his co-workers alike. But, behind all of his best efforts is always Burt "Bubba" Wilson's heart-felt desire to entertain and provide laughter to those he comes into contact with, whether it be over the airwaves, or in person.
All in good fun.....
2 comments:
If Bubba had written this bio, I'm sure he would have shared credit with the other people who worked side by side with him and those that directed his talent in the music studio to create the library of work that was produced for Showbiz Pizza Place.
In fact, his best friend and co-writer, Jeff Howell (appearing at Casey's on Central every Saturday night) was always by his side and contributed greatly to the work as did Rick Bailey (Heart Attack Diner- album release party live at Cricketeer Arms, July 26th on International Drive). There were others who helped design and produce the Rock-afire Explosion music tracks as well.
And, not to be too picky for accuracy here, but Shalisa Sloan, the voice of Mitzi in the Rock-afire Explosion also was instrumental (if you'll excuse the pun) in the direction and design of the Hi-Tones at Universal Studios.
All of us wish Bubba great success on his upcoming CD release.
Bubba did not write the bio...but he DID share credit with everyone on the night of his CD release at the Cheyenne. He had reserved the 3rd floor and all of his friends and family were up there...or down on the dance floor. I actually saw Jeff Howell on the first floor by the bar.
Bubba (Burt) was outstanding...I loved the concert! I loved the Cheyenne, too. I hope they bring Bubba back soon!!!!
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