Photos by Jim Belmont
If you were a kid in the mid-’70s, you probably remember Mark Hudson from The Hudson Brothers TV variety show, or their Saturday morning Razzle Dazzle Show. Or, you may know him as a Grammy award winning songwriter and producer of artists such as Aerosmith, Ringo Starr, Ozzy Osbourne, and yes, even Celine Dion, to name a few. Whichever it may be, a splendid time was guaranteed for all who came out to the Iridium to experience Mark Hudson and the Mamalukes’ music and laugh-filled night of entertainment.
The audience was treated to a great show featuring a variety of classic rock and pop songs, and selections from Hudson’s career as songwriter & producer. Delivering great vocals all night, Hudson and band rocked with energy and conviction, clearly enjoying every moment onstage.
You’ve heard the oft-asked question, “Does humor belong in music?” Well, f#%k yeah! Added to the music mix was a constant stream of comic impersonations by Hudson of famous friends, and hilarious stories from his years working in the industry.
Later in the show, Hudson was joined by ’60s British pop singer Billy J. Kramer and veteran guitarist Earl Slick to perform music from their own catalogs and collaborations with the likes of the Beatles, David Bowie and John Lennon. At one point, Hudson, Slick and crew were joined onstage by David “Buster Poindexter” Johansen for an impromptu, rollicking rendition of the John Lee Hooker classic “Boom Boom.”
Mark’s backup band, the Mamalukes, a tight group of young, skilled musicians, handled every musical curve ball and left field music cue that Hudson could throw at them with ease. And believe me, with all the improvisation and inspired lunacy that went on, there were many.
The evening was a highly enjoyable, giddy celebration of rock ‘n’ roll, and one man’s love affair with music, songwriting and laughter.
—Ray Laracuente
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