Celebration of music and love honoring Drink Small's 92nd birthday.
On January 28, Columbia, South Carolina, will celebrate the 92nd birthday of Drink Small, the beloved ‘blues doctor’ known for his powerful Piedmont blues style. Friends, family, and fellow musicians will gather in his honor, reflecting on a lifetime of musical legacy and cherished memories. This milestone is not just about age but the vibrant life and influence he has shared through music. Join in the festivities and celebrate a remarkable journey filled with joy, laughter, and memorable tunes.
It’s a beautiful day in Columbia, South Carolina, as we gear up to celebrate a remarkable milestone. Drink Small, affectionately known as the “blues doctor” of the Palmetto State, is turning 92 on January 28! And believe it or not, there’s more to this celebration than just the big number—there’s a lifetime of memories, music, and friendships to reflect upon!
With a mainly sunny sky, today’s forecast shows a cozy high of 59°F and a gentle west-southwest breeze blowing at 10 to 20 mph. As night falls, the temperature will dip to a brisk 31°F, but we won’t let that cool our spirits as we gather under the clear sky to honor this legendary musician.
For those who might not know, Drink Small plays a distinct style of blues called Piedmont blues. This style comes alive with finger-picking on the guitar and heartfelt singing, a reflection of the rich cultural heritage of the region. The story of friendship between Drink Small and a talented drummer—who just so happens to be turning 77 next month—began back when he was just a teenager of 17. Yes, you guessed it; he was drumming for Joanie Sullivan and the Prophets when a fateful call from bass player Bobby Brown changed everything!
Bobby had asked the young drummer to fill in for Drink’s regular drummer, describing the ‘blues doctor’ as an “old Black man” who brought his very own flavor of blues to life. Little did he know that this would kickstart years of vibrant performances and deepening friendships!
After playing countless gigs with Drink Small through high school, life took a turn as the drummer served in Vietnam for four years. Upon returning to Columbia to pursue his studies at the University of South Carolina, the camaraderie with Drink was reignited. The years apart did little to dull their bond; through various jobs across the East Coast, he always made it a point to unite with Drink whenever he was home.
Special family celebrations were shared, like the day Drink serenaded the narrator’s mother with “Happy Birthday” during her 73rd birthday party. These memories created a fabric of friendship woven through music, laughter, and love. Indeed, Drink Small has become a beloved member of the narrator’s family!”
As we approach the big day, plans are underway for an exciting birthday celebration filled with music, friends, and good vibes. The narrator along with fellow musicians will join Drink as they jam together, showcasing the talents that have made Drink Small such a cherished figure in the world of blues.
Let’s not forget the grand celebration that took place last year for Drink’s 90th birthday at the South Carolina State Museum. It was an evening filled with joy and applause, showcasing that despite the passage of time, Drink remains a vibrant force. Even at 92, his mind is sharp, and his voice resonates with a deep bass that pulls at the heartstrings.
This year’s festivities will take place in Columbia at the cozy home he shares with his lovely wife, Adrina. Friends and family are set to gather and pay tribute to a man who has given so much through the power of music. If you are in the area, you won’t want to miss this opportunity to celebrate the incredible legacy of Drink Small—the man, the myth, the legend!
So mark your calendars and join us in celebrating not just a birthday but a lifetime of blues that has touched countless hearts. Cheers to Drink Small—may the music continue to live on!
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