The Challenge
The Smokin’ 45s Rock and Blues Revue advance to the final round of the 2012 Detroit Blues Challenge to be held next month in Auburn Hills at Callahan’s. “There is a lot of serious talent in Detroit and we’re going to the go the finals and have some fun,” states singer Paul Hoffman. They were one of two bands from a round in April that moves 
forward in the competition. The Dale Robertson Band was the other band that night and lead-man, Dale Robertson says he “wouldn’t be surprised that” the Smokin’ 45s “go to Memphis this year” and the finals at Callahan’s will “be a really good show.”
Gregory Maxey, one of the judges from April states “I have been privileged to hear The Smokin’ 45s many times over the past several years. They are indeed one the hardest working bands in the business.” He goes on to say, “These guys are highly polished and in the pocket blues musicians. Their place on the Detroit Blues Society finals stage this October is justly deserved.” Jade Smith another judge that evening explains how he “was honored and privileged” to be a judge and “The Smokin’ 45s were very entertaining.” The third judge was Dan Bourdeau. He states The Smokin’ 45s “lit up the room” and “worked the room” with fun music.
Band History
The five members of The Smokin’ 45s are veterans of the Detroit music scene. The band tested the waters as an opening act to develop their sound. Soon they were featured throughout Southeast Michigan at local clubs, bars, and private parties.
Rock and Blues was the hook and their full name, The Smokin’ 45s Rock and Blues Revue, pays tribute to the era of the 45 vinyl record disc of early Rock ‘n Roll fame. Their first 12-song album was released on CD in 2003 and was titled “Anywhere But Here …” It has been featured and sold across North America and Europe.
Stages and Awards
In 2004 the band began receiving invites to perform larger venues, including Pontiac Arts, Beats & Eats, the Lake Orion Blues Festival, and the Motor City Breakdown Blues Challenge.
The “People’s Choice” award was presented to group in 2005 at the Oxford Hot Blues & BBQ Festival. Working their way up the west side of the state, The Smokin’ 45s have performed at Blues festivals in Tawas, Alpena, and Cheboygan.
Giving Back
In 2007 members of the band participated in the Alpena Blues-in-the-Schools program. They had the opportunity to share their experience and perform with junior and senior high school music students.
The Michigan Humanities Council accepted their application to be part of the 2009-2012 Michigan Arts & Humanities Touring Directory. This honor opened new doors for the band to engage audiences around the state at libraries, fairs, and community concert series.
See Them Live
The Smokin’ 45s perform on Friday for a fundraising event at the Cross Lutheran Church at 35851 Utica Road in Clinton Township at 7:00 p.m. and on Saturday at the Moose Lodge at 3967 S. Livernois Road in Rochester Hills at 8:30 p.m. Both shows are open to the public.
The Detroit Blues Challenge Finals take place on Sunday, October 21, 2012 at Callahan’s at 105 South Blvd. in Auburn Hills at 3:00 p.m.
Still with the original line-up, The Smokin’ 45s are:
Paul Hoffman – lead vocals and harmonica Lenny Hall – percussion and backing vocals Ken Christie – bass guitar and lead vocals Dave Remkus – guitar and backing vocals Dale Morgan – guitar and slide guitarFor more information about The Smokin’ 45s, visit their website.
Michael writes about happenings in the Rochester area, travels across Michigan and destinations around the world. Contact him at Michael@RochesterMedia.com
About Michael Dwyer