About the Artist/Ensemble
Bobby “BlackHat” Walters, recording artist, harmonica player, vocalist, songwriter, producer, comedian, and actor resides in Newport News, VA and has been playing harp for over 50 years. Bobby is a retired U.S. Coast Guard Commander with 27 years of distinguished service which included serving as Military Aide to the President and being awarded the Coast Guard Medal for Heroism.
Bobby has received awards and recognition for his music, leadership, mentorship, and music community engagement. Bobby won the nationwide “USAA & We Are The Mighty’s Mission: Music Talent Competition” and was a featured performer at the 50th Anniversary Hampton Jazz Festival. The Bobby BlackHat Band advanced to the FINALS of the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, TN. Bobby has received two Blewzzy Awards for “Song of the Year, multiple VEER Music Awards and was the recipient of the prestigious 2024 VEER Musicians Musician Award. Bobby has released six CDs and a host of singles. Bobby is an event inspired songwriter who is well known for his timely, topical, and relatable musical messaging. His music has received Grammy consideration multiple times. Bobby has had the honor of opening for music Legends B.B King, Taj Mahal, Ruthie Foster, Delbert McClinton, and Steady Rollin Bob Margolin, Patti Labelle, Ramsey Lewis, and Maze.
Concert/Performance Description
Bobby BlackHat blends the influences of Chicago, Memphis, Piedmont, and Delta style blues along with a little Gospel into a Toe Tappin’, Finger Poppin’, Hip Shakin’ Blues experience. “You Never Know What’s Gonna Happen at a Bobby BlackHat Show!
Technical Requirements
Adequate electrical outlets and lighting. Contact the artist for more details.
Educational Programs
Blues in the Schools – is a music education workshop designed to create a deeper appreciation and greater awareness of blues music and its rich history. We are mission driven to also ensure the future of this uniquely American art form by expanding awareness of the music across all lines. Taking Blues music into school systems, via Blues in the Schools, provides a direct line to keep this great American genre both relevant and thriving.
VIDEO:
- “Two By Four” https://youtu.be/0MIHwcj5hgY?si=zjQ0XVEQepw1Hb15
- “You Time, Me Time, We Time” https://youtu.be/Bkr0AgsMaGA?si=vvqX0k0d1t6Q6_QC
- “Bobby BlackHat Band Montage” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PunGCQljEKA
- “Broke Knee Blues” https://youtu.be/0q2EhIjFCfU?si=xMTD_qq9p91XdnlB
- “Blues In the Schools Montage” https://youtu.be/u4Bxm9NHFPA
Fees
Duo/Trio Concert: $1,500-$2,500
Full Band Concert: $2,500-$4000
Blues in The Schools: $2,000-$3000
Blues in The Schools & Concert: $3,000-$5,000
Fee varies depending on location, travel distance to the venue, length of the performance, etc. Fees do not include accommodations.
Audience
- All Ages