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CLEVELAND FATS
Mark “Cleveland Fats” Hahn is a versatile
guitarist who possesses a strong reverence for the tradition of
blues. As a youngster he started playing the guitar by studying the
recordings of such masters as Muddy Waters, The Kings (Albert, B.B.,
and Freddie), Earl Hooker, and T- Bone Walker. He was particularly
interested in many of the Chess recordings of the 1950s. While in
high school he joined the band of Otis Trotter, who had a loyal
following in Fats’ home town of
Ravenna
,
Ohio
. Playing in Trotter’s band allowed Fats the opportunity to
perform and develop his craft by working first – hand with
seasoned blues veterans
Shortly after finishing high school Fats met and befriended Robert
Lockwood, Jr. Soon thereafter Fats was asked to join the band of Mr.
Lockwood. While a member of the Lockwood band, Fats had the
opportunity to continue his musical education by studying at the
feet of a master. Fats performed, traveled, and recorded with Robert
Lockwood, Jr. for the better part of seventeen years.
Since leaving Lockwood’s band Fats has recorded albums for
Ichiban/Wild Dog Blues, Bueswayed, and Honeybee. He has toured
England
,
Canada
, and the
United States
and continues to play today. He is scheduled to begin recording a
new album for Honeybee in early 2006 and plans to tour in support of
the release.
Cleveland Fats is a master blues guitarist. He plays with a rich,
deep tone and is comfortable playing everything from solo
Delta-style acoustic to traditional
Chicago
blues to uptown
Memphis
and West Coast blues. Cleveland Fats is a dedicated bluesman and
this can be seen whether he is playing solo or fronting his hard –
driving band.
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“He is an exceptional guitarist with great tone and skill…”
Real Blues |
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“I was awed by his forceful solos and jazzy lines…”
Vintage Guitar |
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“Simply stated, he is a splendid singer, guitarist, and
songwriter…”
Jazz and Blues Report |
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