By R. David Shew
From time to time, you get to witness something special in your life. Friday night was one of those nights for me.
My father was my dad, my coach, my boss, my mentor, and one of my best friends. I miss him dearly this time of the year because my father and mother made Christmas really special for my brothers, my sister, and me. I can remember telling friends if you don’t enjoy Christmas just come home with me, and I meant it.
Friday night, my friends and I got to witness a fabulous Christmas show at Chenault Winery. Brassfield entertained their loyal fans. The members of Brassfield are Jessie Rose Pennington on keyboards, Chadley Brassfield on acoustic guitar, and Bradley Brassfield on electric guitar. Friday night, J. P. Pennington showed up to play backup with his daughter Jessie, son-in-law Chadley, and Jessie’s brother-in-law Bradley.
In 1970, my family moved to Richmond from Alabama. I was a brash, naïve teenager that loved music. J. P. was, and still is, a member of Exile. In 1970 and several other years, I remember Exile playing music on a tobacco flatbed in Britt’s, now Ollie’s, parking lot for the Eastern students arriving on campus to start the fall semester. J. P. and Exile played dances at Model and Madison Country Club as well as something called Cotillion in Lexington, Winchester, Paris, and Richmond.
Friday night, I spoke briefly to J. P. Pennington. I told him that it was a true joy to watch him play and sing with his daughter. J. P. smiled and agreed with me.
Also, I must say that Pennington’s version of “That’s Alright Momma” was fantastic. My friend, Cass, told me this song was Elvis’ first release in 1954. I must say that Elvis would approve.
Brassfield played several of their songs that they have written and several other popular songs including “Sail On” by the Commodores, “Tied to the Whipping Post” by The Allman Brothers Band, and “Brand New Key” by Melanie just to name a few.
In addition, it was a true joy to hear J. P. Pennington and Brassfield sing “Kiss You All Over.” The magic in this song will never disappear.
On a side note, we lit the Advent candle of JOY today at church. Thank you Brassfield and J. P. for bringing some Christmas joy to this music lover.
