J.J. Cale’s 20 best songs, from wicked to freakin’ awesome

One of the things I'm most proud of doing during my 40-plus years as a music writer was interviewing J.J. Cale. Twice!

Word-for-word with Warren Haynes of the Allman Brothers: the complete interview, October 20, 1994

This is my first Warren Haynes interview, which I did when the Allman Brothers were touring behind the Where It All Begins album.

Vancouver instrumental stoner-metal trio Heavy Trip plays a release party for new album Liquid Planet at the Pearl on Thursday.

The Saskatchewan native was an unstoppable party-hearty force, leaping about and cranking out rhythmic riffs on his white Prestige guitar.

Billy Idol's career may have peaked back in 1983 with Rebel Yell, but judging by his recent recordings he can still sing his ass off.

Canadian supergroup the Trans-Canada Highwaymen plays a fundraising gala/cocktail reception at West Van's Kay Meek Arts Centre on Saturday.

Led by vocalist-guitarist Todd Kerns, the quartet specializes in covering timeless songs by some of Canada's most beloved classic-rock acts.

The Bottle Rockets have to be one of the most underrated rock bands of all time. I freakin' loved those guys.

Seattle rockers the Supersuckers play the Rickshaw on Thursday on a bill with costumed McDonald's-themed Sabbath tribute band Mac Sabbath.

Back in August of 2001 I did my second interview with Black Crowes guitarist Rich Robinson, whose band was touring behind its Lions album.

Some of the tunes from David Lee Roth's solo career were just as good as the ones he sang with Van Halen. Or pretty close, anyway.

AC/DC tribute band BC/DC, featuring vocalist Brian "Bon" Johnscottson, plays the Hollywood Theatre on Saturday.

Jim Cuddy and Greg Keelor comprise one of the finest singer-songwriter teams Canada has ever known. Long may they run.