In 1970, there was a concert in Temple Stadium where, for $7.50, you could see and hear Cactus, The Manhattan Transfer, The Grateful Dead, The Steve Miller Band, and Jimi Hendrix's Band of Gypsies. Steve Miller did this storytelling song with harp effects called "The Blues and the Bees," which I've never seen on any of his albums, even live ones. Now that they've been a "pop" band since the mid-70's, they don't seem interested in responding to any questions about it, and I can't find anything relevant on Google. Does anyone else know anything about this song? I like those steve miller compilation discs. does everybody own those because of BMG or something? Wow, man, you're old! <chuckles>
Being a fellow 'dinosaur rocker', I can relate! The first time I saw Steve Miller was in Ocean City, MD in 1971 and they were a really cool, hip, space-rock/blues band. Unfortunately, Stevie boy followed the 70s trend into arena rock and left the really good old stuff from 'Sailor', 'Brave New World' and 'Number 5' behind. It's no wonder that you can't get any info on this number.
More than likely, it was probably some impromptu 'make up as I go along' number, which folks used to do back then. This was especially popular when each member of the band was given 10 minutes or so to do their own thing in concerts back then. I'd be willing to bet that this was a one-shot, made up thing at this concert alone.
Too bad, you should have brought your 8-track recorder with you! <chuckles> I did some digging but could not find anything on it. Not even on the official site. I could not find a fan club. Maybe the Rock and roll hall of fame could help you. Hope you find it.---------------Extra-- Extra-- I found a version of the song you ask about (Blues and the Bees) it is not by Steve Miller but maybe it is the same tune. The artist is Dave C. Hefley I found it in the ITunes store. You can sample it there and decide if it is the tune you heard Steve Miller sing. You can down load it for 0.99 cent,s if it is. |
