Stevie Ray Vaughan Forever

 By Rachel Wagenman

Replica of Elvis Presley's car above the bar

The tribute concert honoring Stevie Ray Vaughan and the 20th anniversary of his passing, started at 9PM on Friday August 27th at Hard Rock Café, and as soon as the doors opened, the house was already a rockin’.

One of the Stevie Ray Vaughan tribute guitars

Aside from the replica of Elvis Presley’s car hanging above the bar, guests were immediately assaulted by the presence of the display of Stevie Ray Vaughan tribute guitars as well as an authentic jacket, worn by the legend himself.

The night was just beginning and the bar was already packed, the restaurant was at a 45-minute wait, and waiters were rushing around with burgers and generous helpings of nachos. Vaughan’s memory had brought together quite the audience.


“Stevie Ray Vaughan forever! Forever!” guitar player and lead vocalist Andrew Simbahon of the opening band Cradle2Grave yelled during their last song.

Everyone that played, John Hart (St. Funk), Jamm Aquino (LoveChile), Natural T, and Tavana, shared Cradle2Grave’s enthusiasm for Vaughan. Each band’s Myspace page lists him as an influence, and each honored his memory by covering songs he liked, as well as songs by him and his partner in Double Trouble, Tommy Shannon.

Venus even accompanied certain bands as the female role of Lou Ann Barton, who often sang with Vaughan. I ran into Venus in the bathroom and complemented her on her voice and explained that I would shake her hand, but I should wash my hands first, to which she laughed and said it was the thought that counts.

John Hart

St. Funk’s cover of Vaughan’s “Voodoo Child,” really rocked the house when it turned the area in front of the bar into a dance floor. With fierce guitar licks and a few beers, who wouldn’t be able to loosen up? Lead singer and guitarist John Hart definitely did, as he was all over the floor.

“Keep it in your pants!” he yelled at the end of his set in response to the energy the crowd was exhibiting. “Your wallet!” he corrected, “Those are expensive.”

Tavana

Eventually the night led to the acoustic bluesy sounds of Tavana. He pulled up a chair in front of the crowd, closed his eyes, and played.

“I was at an age where I could’ve went either way,” he said, explaining Vaughan’s influence on him, “He guided me to a positive place with music.”

Tavana not only played—he was felt the music. He was rocking the chair back and forth and it wasn’t even a rocking chair.

“I think that’s all the talent I have, y’all,” he said matter-of-factly after taking a breath after an energetic number. “You’ve inspired us all man, inspired us all,” he said, giving a final reflection on Vaughan.

Vaughan’s memory was definitely honored this night. I can’t think of a better way a legendary rock star would want to be celebrated than by getting people together who love good music and rocking out. He will always be remembered for his passion for music and will continue to be an inspiration for musicians everywhere.