As one of my to do list, I started exploring Kingston Mines and The B.L.U.E.S. on the north side of town. They are well known spots to tourists from around the world.
The other night I saw Mike Wheeler Band at Kingston Mines. As I walked in by the stage, I was greeted by both Mike Wheeler and Larry Williams on bass from the stage while they were performing.
I have met Mike and worked with Larry before. It is a nice feeling to be treated as a friend when you are visiting a town.
Toward the end of the night, Mike kindly let me sit in with the band. Playing with such a premier band in Chicago is the kind of exposure I seek now to be remembered by the public.
I often wonder what my life would have been like if I had lived in Chicago when I moved to the U.S. in 1987. My continuing pilgrimage to this mecca of the blues music is my attempt to bring an answer to that question.
Gradually I am feeling differently about Chicago. I already know in my mind that I would come back here for a longer term next time and try to pursue my career. In other words, instead of being a visitor I started feeling closer to this city.