New York City’s Summerstage series has had some A-list artists grace its stages, but for fans of honky-tonk bluesy-rock, legendary singer Dr. John was the show not to miss. The Central Park venue hosts a number of free concerts throughout the summer.
A crowd had gathered and boogied with opener Hurray For The Riff Raff, and was just ready to bust loose, when the good Doctor’s set was cancelled due to illness. Though Dr. John, 73, wanted to proceed with the set, he was in serious enough condition that his team insisted upon taking him to the hospital. His next two shows were subsequently canceled. It might have been the right place, but it must have been the wrong time.
Thankfully, according to musical director Sarah Morrow, he’s doing much better. Dr. John tweeted “Wuz bitten by a flu bug & doc wouldn’t let me play today. Thanx to all the fans for their love & I’ll be out jammin’ for you all again soon.” His next show, at Talking Stick Resort & Casino in Scottsdale, Arizona, is on as scheduled. We’re sending him our best wishes.
Dr. John’s upcoming Louis Armstrong tribute album, Skee-Dat-De-Dat, is out August 19th, and includes dedicated renditions of Satch’s best works, including “Mack The Knife” and “What A Wonderful World.”
—Asher Meerovich (@Bummertime)