February 1st, 2018 4:14 am
In 2010, Rhythm and Blues published an article about my aunt “Christine Chatman” , Author Dan Kochakian, penned an amazing article about her career, who she performed with on multiple labels during the 1940’s and 50’s. Our family was ecstatic to see the wealth of information and connecting the dots of her musical history. In this February 2018, edition I along with my cousin Anthony Chatman, and Madelyn Green assisted in providing clarification on points of her life, relationships and the family connection to her career.
As a musician (member of the AFM, Grand Rapids MI) and touring in the mid 70’s with a show band (Cinnamon) based out of Lansing Michigan I had the opportunity to visit and spend time with Aunt Chris at her home in Jackson TN. She would light up as I’d talked about what it was like touring on the road and playing in venues in Florida and abroad. We shared the good times and bad. This was an amazing time reflecting back on her playing piano and singing with our families (Coleman’s, Chatman’s and all others) and all of her nieces and nephews since she didn’t have any children.
My Aunt Chris, shared with me the challenges for her during the time where there were very few African American “female” band leaders and what the experience was like to have to rely on others just to be treated fairly and with respect. I later found out in my research that she had been “black listed” by the Musician’s Union branch in Illinois due to union dues for her band members not being paid. I was able to get the official records and assist with clearing her name.
In this edition of Rhythm and Blues February 2018, you’ll find more details and updates that you’ll enjoy reading. What I’m really excited about is that I will be producing a recording (live and studio ) “The best of Christine Chatman” that I’ll be leading from the drums. Oh my do we have the vocals covered.
Christine Chatman’s nieces (Coleman’s and Chatman’s) are amazing singers and joining me on the majority of instruments will also be “family”. I’ll keep this site updated on the progress of the ten (10) song selected. I’m also moving my current AFM #625 membership to the Detroit AFM local # 5, to tap into the great pool of musicians
in the motor city where Christine Chatman also performed .
You’ll be able to pick up this exciting musical venture at CD Baby.com, I-Tunes, and listen in on my online music site “Jango.com”
Thanks to Dan Kochakian & Dave Penny, for his research on Aunt Chris and providing our family with an opportunity to assist with this update.
Rich Coleman
“Aint Nothin Shakin”, Peppy Prince, featuring Christine Chatman
Christine Chatman, the Boogie Woogie Queen update
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