 Mackey gets a spread in Soul Bag
September 2008
After numerous interviews with writer/ promoter Georges Lemaire of Belgium
for the first time in print Wes Mackey tells his story in the iconic French magazine.
Soul Bag has featured the top blues and soul artists since 1968 .
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RELEASE FOR INTERNATIONAL PRESS :
Made in Canada” music celebrated in Provence France
Provence News
July 12, 2008
Le Blues de joyeux de Lamanon
On July 9, a mysterious, large, white limousine and the presence of several photographers
and cameraman aroused the curiosity of the public and airport staff in Marseilles in southern France.
(Picture 1)
Was it Brad Pitt, Madonna or the emir of some oil rich nation who had come to partake
in the joys of Provence?
After waiting almost three hours all eyes turn to watch the unknown celebrity as he walk through
the gates. The diminutive figure carrying a large guitar passes puzzled autograph seekers as he
approaches the awaiting dignitaries. From under a black pork pie hat Vancouver Blueman,
Wes Mackey flashes a warm smile.
 Mr. Mackey was greeted by Mr. Roland Darrouzes Mayor of Lamanon and President of the
regional union that represents 119 Mayors in Provence.
The reason for this triumphal reception?
 The humbled Wes Mackey was there to attend a distinctive presentation at the town’s
Festival des Alpilles where he received the “Citizen of Honor” medal from the Mayor for
his song Full Moon in Lamanon
The mayor was actually a part of the inspiration for the song which Mackey wrote in
homage to the small village after a series of misadventures while in town to perform as a
last minute replacement for ailing blues icon Sam Taylor. After establishing a bond with the
affable Bluesman, Festival organizer Vincent Bertomeu produced a limited edition “Collector”
album of the same name and then a promotional video depicting the funny story which starred
the fun loving citizens with a mysterious fondness for dark shades.
The clip can be viewed online at www.festivaldesalpilles.com
The passion the blues song has inspired was evident at the show where Mackey also received
honours from the world renowned Valley of the Baux olive oil producers and notably Castelas Mill
which received first place in the world at the Fancy Food Show of New York.
This year’s headliners Harmonica Shah and Dr. David Evans put on a great show and then
jammed with Mackey who wrapped up the night with a brilliant performance to a clearly smitten audience.
  Wes Mackey originally from
Big Estate, South Carolina was
already overwhelmed by the terrific
response and when acclaimed artist
Jean-François Gérold proposed the
creation of a new version using the
classical instruments of Provence he
was clearly moved.
After a stint in Germany and a concert in Luxembourg, the amazingly talented Mackey will return to
Canada where he is very busy but remains fairly undiscovered in North America. He will tour Europe
again in November in support of his new release Beyond Words and will do a special concert in Paris on December 6. (to find out more about Wes visit his website at www.wesmackey.com)
As for Lamanon, it appears its love affair with all things Canadian will continue as it launches a new
event next week at the Festival des Alpilles celebrating the four hundredth birthday of the foundation
of the town of Quebec. Fittingly billed as “Quebec, Belle Province in Belle Provence” it will feature
Québécois artist Simon Genest and Provence artist Jean Plantevin (www.festivaldesalpilles.com).
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Another amazing review for Wes Mackey!
Peppermint Blues
Lam' du Blues,
Festival des Alpilles
Lamanon,France
David Bascunana
Pour lire la version française de cet article ou pour voir la vidéo de
ce concert, cliquez sur ce lien
 Edmonton Journal
Natural entertainer Mackey brings top-tier ensemble to shows
Bluesman taps emotional content of lyrics
Peter North, Freelance
Blues Revue Magazine's 2007 Annual Edition!
Mackey's live performance in Germany gets a
great review.
By Vincent Abbate
By Jack Mccray
Of the Post and Courier Staff
Charleston South Carolina
By Shelley Arnusch
Of Piquenewsmagazin
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