NY, Sept 25: Red Hot Chili Peppers bassist Flea, former Pink Floyd main man Roger Waters and singer/songwriter Alicia Keys will judge the Sir Charles Blues Lab Songwriting Contest, which gives teens the chance to record with fellow judge Ray Charles. Songs will be judged for originality, adherence to the blues form, subject matter and lack of profanity. Five lyricists will win trips to Los Angeles to work with Charles, a longtime supporter of the charity.
Runners-up can win a guitar autographed by Britney Spears or a bass lesson from Flea, both also keen benefactors of the charity. In addition, 10 schools or community centers submitting more than 20 entries (one per student) will be randomly picked to receive equipment for their music programs. For more information, visit the Blues Lab's Web site (http://www.blueslab.org/).
Charles, who was forced to cancel tour plans due to a hip ailment, celebrated his 73rd birthday Sept. 23 at his L.A. studio. Willie Nelson and Quincy Jones were on hand for the party, where Charles announced the contest.
Bureau Report