Reprinted from the "Oshkosh Northwestern", 11-25-2004, p. 2, in the "Now" Section (insert).
It's difficult to think about the Thanksgiving holiday without fondly
recalling the life of
Jeff "JR" Roberts.
For many Roberts was a fixture on the local music and social scene.
Wearing his trademark bib overalls, sipping on a diet Mountain Dew
with a chaser of Ol Grand Dad, Roberts greeted everyonelongtime friend or
new acquaintancewith a big smile, a hearty laugh, and a handshake.
Although heralded by his peers as an outstanding musician, Roberts
wasn't one to boast.
It was months and many conversations after meeting JR that I first
learned of his harmonious talents. Even when I breached the subject with
him, he was more concerned about the "scene" and the "players" than
garnering himself even the slightest share of the spotlight.
I'd ask him about his music and within moments he'd be telling a story
about his time with
Reverend Raven
or a trip to some small gig in the Northwoods, but rarely a mention of his
own work.
Conversations about music always lead to perceptions of the local
scene.
While Oshkosh is blessed with dedicated musicians, Roberts knew the
city has also been cursed with patrons not willing to pay a two-dollar
cover charge, but more than willing to spend $50 on beer that night.
Roberts would just shake his head and make a half-joking comment about
loving the music more than making a living before once again changing the
subject to his other great lovefood.
With his childhood friend, Pete Preston aka Klondike Pete, Roberts was
a competitive cook on the Kansas City Barbeque Society circuit.
Whether talking about food or music, there was a glow that surrounded
Roberts.
Roberts died on Oct. 15 at the age of 49.
On Sunday his life and contributions to the Oshkosh music scene will
be remembered at one of Roberts' favorite taverns -- Peabody's Ale House
in downtown Oshkosh.
While his contributions to the music scene can't be measured in
commercial success, one look at the performers giving their time for the
memorial concert shows that Roberts influence on people stretches beyond
music and food.
Christopher the magician will emcee the event, which includes giving
away door prizes and free pitchers of beer throughout the afternoon.
Musical entertainment starts at 2 p.m. with
Chad & Paul
, followed by
Wayne Neumann
, and the
Brenda Theabo Group. At 3:30
p.m.
Dave Jahnke
will sings a special song for JR, followed by a set of jazz by
Janet Planet,
Tom Theabo, and
Tom Washatka.
Copper Box
takes the stage at 3:30 p.m., followed by the
Reverend Raven & the Chain Smokin' Alter Boys, the
Friends Reunion Band,
Andy's Automatics and
Bobby Evans & the Alimony Blues Band
at 7:30 p.m. The Sunday night tradition known at the
Jazz Orgy
wraps up the night at 9 p.m. Admission is $10.
While Roberts probably would have blushed at all the attention, this
is the perfect way to say thanks to the countless musicians who struggle
and sacrifice so that we can enjoy their gifts.
Thanks JR. You'll be missed, but not forgotten.
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Jeff Potts