WSP Enters Georgia Music Hall of Fame

It felt great to be surrounded by the Panic family and a great southern crowd. How could I miss the opportunity to see Dave Schools in Black tie attire? Now that’s a thing of beauty! As I walked into the reception, I didn’t know what to expect but I was up for anything.

This was the 30th anniversary for the Georgia Music Hall Of Fame and Panic was going to join some greats including Ray Charles, The Allman Brothers, James Brown, REM and the B 52’s. Widespread Panic was the first band in the jamband scene to get inducted. This was quite an honor.

The evening began with some southern Gospel and Dottie Rambo getting inducted. She is the first non African-American Gospel singer to be inducted. Her granddaughter accepted the award on her behalf. She explained that her music was inspired by what was going on. She was outspoken and did a lot for the popularity of Gospel. All this Jewish boy could say was Amen!

Next up was Keith Sweat, who played a couple of tunes that got the ladies sweating. Then. Chris “Ludacris” Bridges was given his award for best performer. Ludacris was the first rapper to be inducted. What an honor for Mr. Chris. Ludacris thanked his family, production company and record label. In honor of his induction, two lesser-known rappers from his label did Luda’s version of Georgia On My Mind. It brought the crowd back to its feet and the bumping and grinding continued.

It was time for the grand finale: Panic’s induction. As Panic hit the stage, the spreadheads started going nuts. Everyone was feeling good, and most everyone ran to the front of the venue. It was quite a sight seeing the panic faithful in tuxedos and evening gowns. And oh… those widespread girls.

Panic started off with Up All Night, which is a song about New Year’s in Atlanta. Next, Panic played Ain’t Life Grand putting everyone in a good mood. The induction ended with John Bell thanking everyone whom had helped the Panic throughout their career, and his fellow band mates. J.B., with his signature Whiskey drawl and animated stage presence, accepted the award with the same grace he would sing Jorma’s Genesis. Then, the band continued a Georgia Music Hall of Fame tradition by covering Georgia On My Mind. Former ABB keyboardist Chuck Leavell, who gave the speech inducting the band into the hall, joined Jojo Herman on keys. Leavell also shared vocal responsibilities with J.B.

It was a night to remember and one of the crowning achievements of Widespread Panic’s 23-year career. See ya ‘all at Lakewood in a couple weeks. – Brent Berman