Legendary Soulman Charles “Wigg” Walker
Legendary soulman Charles “Wigg” Walker debuts in Asheville with his top notch band, celebrating more than 50 years as a professional musician!
The band includes Pat Bergeson on guitar who is well known as an extraordinary session and touring guitar player. He’s played with a wide and diverse range of artists including Chet Atkins, Lyle Lovett, Randy Travis, Emmylou Harris, Michael McDonald, Kenny Rogers, Alison Krauss and Bill Frisell to name a few.
Charles Walker was born in Nashville, Tennessee on July 12, 1940. Charles or “Wigg,” as he is known by his friends (his mother nicknamed him when he was born with a full head of hair), began singing at an early age in church and school. He cut his first record in 1959 for Ted Jarrett’s legendary Champion label.
In 1960, Charles moved to New York City where studios and nightclub work were plentiful. 1962 found Charles recording with Chess Records out of Chicago, and soon he signed on as lead singer with the J.C. Davis Band. This band began touring the country opening for the greats of the era including James Brown, Jackie Wilson, Etta James, Wilson Pickett, Little Willie John, Otis Redding, and Sam Cooke. The J.C. Davis Band recorded some real barnstormers for Chess like “Sweet Sweet Love” and “The Chicken Scratch.”
In 1964, Charles formed his own group, Little Charles and the Sidewinders. They became one of the most in demand soul bands in New York City’s nightclub scene, performing at the Apollo Theater, Small’s Paradise and venturing out to Las Vegas and Atlantic City. They subsequently recorded for Chess and Decca labels. The Sidewinders stayed together through the 60’s, and in 1969 Charles cut some sides for Botanic Records. The Sidewinders reformed in 1973 and worked as a show band in hotels, nightclubs, and casinos without the benefit of a recording contract. In 1979, Charles signed on with Motown as a staff writer.
Concert takes place Saturday, May 30, 2015 at the Altamont Theatre, 18 Church Street, Asheville. Doors open at 7 p.m. and show begins at 8 p.m. Tickets are $20; $15 in advance. (828) 348-5327, www.thealtamont.com
