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I love the picture of the Saint Marks Place. Hope. I really like to take pictures of buildings, hotels, etc. Great job on the finished product... and the vacuum cleaner, lol.
Otis, I really respect your values. Your final piece got me crying all over again. I lost my cat the day before yesterday. Fifteen years ago on my daily walk through the woods to let the chickens out for the day, I saw this tiny black kitten who promptly dropped something and ran away and hid. I went to see what she had, and it was a dead baby bird. I just had to save this little creature who was surviving on her own. I left food at that spot and gradually moved it to the chicken house, where I devoted a room to her with her own outside entrance that was always open. My older cat wouldn't permit another in my residence, so Blackie lived in the chicken house but spent most of her time poking around in the woods. When Scottie died two years later Blackie moved in with me. Until her health gave out, Blackie took regular walks with me through the woods to her old home place. We would sit by the small river next to the chicken house where she grew up. She loved doing that, and I loved her. I buried her at her home place. Thanks to anyone with the patience to read this. Telling this story might help me cope.
That seriously made this 42yo man tear up, especially the part about where you put him to rest. My rescue cat Patches had to be put down last year and it broke my heart. I'm convinced that rescues KNOW what you did for them and they show you their appreciation daily.
@@BobbyGeneric145 Cats know a lot more than they let on! I have also found that the only cure for losing a beloved companion is to find another one as soon as you are ready. As Mark Twain once said: "A house can not be a home without a well-petted cat" (paraphrased). I found out how empty a house feels without a cat aboard. There is only one cure.
This is the best. I think above all I love your honesty and sincerity , two things the corporate world will never understand . P.S. many years ago my wife and I found a cat under our house. She was so small we thought she was a kitten. We took her in and called her “baby cat”. About a month later she had kittens. She outlived all of her babies . She got so old she had lost most of her teeth. She finally left the world around 16 years later. She was a big part of the family. Thanks for reminding me.
I’m laying at home on day five of being sick and not being able to go into work. This was a very timely episode Otis. Thank you so much for displaying your humanity and sharing it with those of us who still care about such things.
Hang in there. I am also in a similar situation. Gout flare ups are awful. I have been bed ridden for nearly 5 days straight without proper meds. You’ll get through this too. ❤️🩹 I got thinking about this after catching up on some sleep. I’d like to offer up some names of musicians and bands that have helped me through my toughest times. Maybe we can both share with each other these things. We might hit on some of them or maybe not. Anyhow, no harm in trying. The artists that come top of mind for me include: Foy Vance, Lisa Hanningan, Travis Meadows, Larkin Poe, Grace Potter & the Nocturnals, Allman Brothers, Stevie Wonder, Bill Withers and First Aid Kit. Can’t forget BB King and Aretha as well. Music would feel incomplete without their contributions. Anyways, I’d love to hear your recommendations and thoughts. All the best, mate!
Great story about the vacuum cleaner Otis, I really liked it. Let's call it "Otis Gibbs iconic vacuum cleaner story". I'm sure that Blaze Foley and Townes Van Zandt would have loved it.
Otis, I grew up in Royal Center, IN, which is ten miles north of Logansport. I lived and worked in Logansport for many years. I ate at the White House restaurant hundreds of times from when I was in high school until I was in my late forties. Breakfast there just could not be beat. The hamburgers were great there as well. The White House was owned by Lester Hettinger and he also ran the grill. He cooked there for over sixty years. I never once saw him write an order down. The waitress would give Lester the orders and he would remember them. There could be over twenty people eating there at once and he still never wrote anything down. Now and then, when they got really busy, he’d tell the waitresses, “No more orders.” He’d allow himself time to get caught up a little and then tell the waitresses to resume orders. If I had a nickel for every egg that Lester ever fried, I’d be a millionaire. I don’t think I ever walked in the place and didn’t see Lester. They would shut the place down for a week at Christmas and a week in the summer. That’s all the vacation he ever took. That location is a barbecue restaurant now and I live in Indianapolis. The love the channel.
Otis, you do make the world a better place to those who listen to your stories and are comforted by the sound of your voice and your take on life. As a life-long musician I can relate to many of these tales. You're like a daily friend and yes, I have my coffee.
Awesome show Otis , I believe Peter Tosh is sitting on the steps with Mick and Keef in that video!! That’s a Beautiful story about Babs and I’m so sorry for your loss!! My cat’s name is Miss Nibbler!! Once again Great show!!🐿️😎🐿️
Hi Otis, I live down on Waverley Place by Washington Swuare Park. I'v hung out around The Village beginning in 1968, I was around 12 or 13, when my neighbors Mom, in NJ took us to Manhattan and dropped us to wander around for 6 hours. That starteed my Hippie style of living at 13 years of age on Bleecker Street NY... While in High School, I'd take the bus from Clinton Point Bus Terminal in NJ for around $1.85 for a ticking to Port Authority NY. So begain my journey to hand in NYC. Of course real life took me to California 1980, Where I met John Prine and had a couple beers and a nice chat. I already knew his music, so I was a bit star struck. Dallas Tx in 84, Kansas City in 85 and in later 1987 moved back to NJ from KC. NYC is a strange MECA with no organization, and at this time no law. But back in those days of the late 60-1978 or so, when NYC went back to being a crime ridden city. Like it is again today after it's little run of the High Life.... Enjoying your chat. Would like to hear your music live and have a chat sometime. Thanks for your Podcasts. Always learning something.
I love this post! Thank you so much! I worked in New York for many years. I totally get what you're talking about. When I worked there in the late '80s and early '90s, every dime in the music business pretty much ran through a record label or a management company. Very different business then than it is now, but I totally get what you were talking about. And man what history there though. Holy smokes. I lived on Tin Pan Alley 28th Street between 6th avenue and Broadway for a few years, it was the heart of the wholesale flower district when I live there. But the history of the songwriting business on that block was mind-boggling and there was a plaque in the concrete sidewalk in front of the building where I lived commemorating the significance of the tin pan alley songwriting era. But somebody tore it up and stole it. I'm glad the plaque was still there when I lived there, but I've since heard that it's gone. I always knew even when I lived there, and much more so years later of the incredible history that took place on that block. There's all kinds of cool stuff like that in many cities. Thank you for these photos and your impressions. They are all fantastic.
Good morning, I have no idea why this episode/your channel came through my RU-vid feed today but am I thrilled that it did! Boy, are you a breath of fresh air! I love humble, down to earth, people who don’t care much about money except enough to get by, and may be a little extra for a vacuum cleaner. Nice to meet you !
I've been watching your videos for some time, but I don't believe I've ever taken a moment to thank you for them. They're so honest and real. I believe your videos make an impact on those who come to hear and view them. I know I'm not alone in that thinking, and so should you. You bring more to the table than you probably realize, and it hasn't gone unnoticed. The world is a little better place, because you're in it, and because of what you openly share with others, Otis. Know that. You do make a difference. It's NOT all for nothing. I know that feeling, as if to say to yourself, "What am I really bringing to the table, here? Are the things I do and share (whether it be through my music, my writings, or my interactions with others) any more than just a drop in the bucket"? I (and clearly, others) are here to share with you that all of what you do counts for something. It brings a little light into the darkness that can be consuming. That's ALWAYS a good thing, so I accept and embrace it for what it is, because I look at it as a gift. Brother, it wasn't too flowery, or too emotional - just real talk about valid emotions and feelings over the things that you've experienced in your years. People relate to that in a huge way, and are thankful for it. I'm so sorry to hear about Babbs and Russell. Pets quickly make their way into our hearts, as they become family members, with their self-less, unconditional love. It seems unfair that they're here with us for such a short time. Never seemed right, to me. I've no doubt they knew how much you loved them, as you enriched their lives, every bit as much as they did, yours. Anyway - I know I'm rambling. I just wanted to take a few moments to thank you for these videos, and for what you bring into my life - and those of many others. Very much appreciated. Always will be. I hope this writing finds you well. Much love to you and yours.
Good visit. Our lives parallel on so many levels. I'll spare you the details. Expect a post card from the Museum of the Gulf Coast in Port Arthur, Texas. Soon as I find your P.O. Box. Thanks for all you do.
I bet that pit of snakes ( the Team) made enough for 10 nice vacuum cleaners.. You’re a good man Otis Gibbs..👍🏼❤️ Thanks for the stories..the music.. the reality..
Such a great story about your cat. I'm glad you learned that the mysterious cat distribution system doesn't make mistakes. I learned it too and wound up with a three generation cat family of five that kept me loved and laughing for years. I'm not at all surprised that you felt that way about your companion. My aunt once told me before she died that after years of observing cats and cat-people she couldn't find much wrong with either. I couldn't agree more.
Great stories about Babs! I live in Brooklyn and would love it if you came back to the city. Who can't understand the big cities are expensive places to be?!
Laughed out loud about the response of the conference call to your vacuum quip. LOL. That was hilarious. I'm an old Texan but I don't mind the flowery stuff, I grew up going through a Dan Fogelberg period and it damned near jumped started growing a little uterus in me, so I can appreciate the sentiments sometimes,even though Uncle Norman got me back to Merle and I've been fine every since . Enjoyed my coffee with ya, no thanks needed for the heat we sent y'all from Texas! Lol
You made a wise decision to keep the cat, Otis. She blessed you with her love for years, and I'm sure she showed you more gratitude than many humans would.
You have had a great effect on us both, you helped get us through the pandemic and so much more, thanks. We know how you feel about Babs ,such a close connection is so cool and priceless.We lost one of our best cat buddies at the end of the lock down and it is so great to think about how much he enriched our lives...damn makes me cry, thanks for doing what you do .
Otis, your storytelling has a wonderful natural flow that is often both soothing and captivating, creating a direct connection to your audience. I enjoy that it often has an unexpected meandering quality about it, going here and there, revealing a multifaceted perspective on the particular topic. I can't think of anyone else's storytelling I enjoy more. Thank you.
Your overall vibe is very engaging to me, Otis. After watching the 30+ min video, I realized it felt like no time had passed at all. I find the content you’ve posted that I’ve seen so far is relaxing and entertaining. I’ll be on the hunt for more. Cheers from your drummer friend in Canada 🇨🇦. 🥁 Much love to you and your loved ones. R.I.P. Babs
Steve Earle lived (might still) on the street where that Freewheelin' cover shot was taken, and I remember reading about Steve saying he would sometimes help tourists out in getting the right shot. Loved seeing all those roadside America photos!
I always enjoy your videos ,Otis.... a pebble thrown into a lake has the same effect as a bigger rock...it ripples outward...and moves through the water...to the shore...!!! Thanks for your videos. You're lucky enough to be able to make a living as a working musician...without the "trappings"...of " STARDOM"...a perfect balance...I would think! Glad you were finally able to get your vacuum cleaner and mattress ...(sometimes...I just use my shop vac...in the house...it works great)...I can tell how much Babs meant to you...amazing how attached you get to certain animals...because they DO...become family...and are irreplaceable...when they leave this world. I bet you're glad you decided to give Babs...a ride and a home...! It's been great having my coffee with you this morning...take care and have a good weekend...stay well... Peace...
Like your music Otis. I’m 65yr. old. I’ve made my living playing music almost all my life. I totally understand what your doing and can relate to this experience.
Thank You so much for sharing that wonderful video with all of us Ottis. I also had a cat that I lost a while back his name was Rosco he was a tipped ear cat who came out of nowhere looking through our sliding glass door at Cookie our family cat. He wanted nothing to do with me till one day I offered him some food, low and behold we became great friends and he would never leave my lap in the morning and became Cookies friend he was truly a heart breaker. Thanks again for sharing.
There’s a whole lot to like about you, Otis, not the least of which is your music. I’m just getting started discovering it, but I’ve been checking out your RU-vid chats for several months. I think we’re probably both around the same vintage, both Hoosiers, and we both are apparently, morning people. I really like your “I can do it in my back yard” theory and that’s how I roll as well. Meeting folks like you sure does make the world go ‘round. Hope to catch your show sometime. Peace ☮️ and love ❤️ to you!
Otis. I'm a huge fan of your music and your youtube channel. Great content, honest, and insightful. The Darker Side of Me and that whole album has been at the top of my playlist since its release. Never commented on your channel but wanted to let you know I love your music and it connects with me. Have a great day and an awesome cup of coffee!
I almost signed a lease for a duplex in Nora the other day, but decided against it because they won't allow pets, and I have a couple of Holland Lop rabbits, Boo and Momo. I acquired the bunnies from a breeder a few months after my St Bernard, Jeanie, passed away in late 2021 - on my granddaughter Lucy's first birthday, to be exact. Anyhow, to make a short story, long, after I opted out of the lease, it dawned on me that my life was being dictated by a couple of rabbits, but my loyalty towards them comes from a similar place as yours towards Babs. When the peripheral world seems beyond redemption, I can find a little solace in giving these little fuzzbuts a good life in a safe environment where Lucy can develop her first relationship with animals. Changing the world starts in the backyard, after all. Besides, the next day, I signed a lease on place that I like much better, and I get to keep Boo and Momo.
Bab's found you! That's how it supposed to work! I have a house full (and planning on saving all I can) You can't beat a great vacuum and I have a Riccar in the closet that I saved and saved for. Bought it around '92! Thanks for the chat. RIP Inky, Lewy, Franky and Teety.
A nice mattress and a good vacuum! My kind of guy…a real person enjoying things that I enjoy. I thank God every morning when I wake up for the roof over my head and my good mattress. Yes, I am a simple man. I love the Babs story…I have 5 kids myself 3 adult 2 teens 2 dogs and 2 cats…I have been very blessed. I pray my existence in all their lives has been for the good. Like you I just want to share the love and try to give back all they have given me.
Go ahead start singing ! I live just outside of Decatur, the town that was considered the soy capital of the world at one time. I would like to catch one of your shows sometime, and do appreciate your ways, keep it up.
Wow, great stories. I’m not a cat person, but I definitely understand how much an animal can add to your life. A lot to be said for the kind of unconditional love they give. Lost my buddy Jackson Brown 4 years ago and I get choked up like you talking about Babs still every time I try to tell somebody about him. I have to confess, I’d never heard of you or your music before watching this video, but I’m going to change that.
You absolutely have an impact on me. The way you think of and relate to the world and people in it is something to appreciate and emulate (ie being chill vs up in arms). And thanks for sharing Babs with us. Would love to hear about the dog.
"I'm gonna wrap it up before i get all emo and sing some Morrissey". 😅 I've got two stray dogs I rescued in 2017 that are waiting for their supper, think I'll go feed them and play them some Otis Gibbs. Keep up the good work Otis!
Thank you Otis for everything! Magnolia Texas loves you! Wish I could make it to Galveston to see you at the old quarter. I recently lost an eye and can't drive now. Wrex Bell is a good man.
When you started to say we would like to make enough money for a new vacuum I started laughing…it was great. Otis I live in Findlay Ohio and we would love to hear/meet you sometime.
Love your channel Otis. Always such an enjoyable listen. i share your reverence and passion for history. Today will be the beginning of my dive into your music catalog - i know already that i am gonna dig yer music. And how cool that ya mentioned Michael Corcoran- i have saved a piece he wrote about one of my fav'rit cats- bob schneider. Corcoran's writing in that piece was just remarkable and i've held onto ever since. So - i'm inspired on two fronts- to check out more of MC's writings and to check out yer tunes. All the best to ya and keep bein easy brother! - you sure have made it a brighter day for me each time i Listen to ya; you are having an impact undoubtedly.
Otis all one can do is be a good human as Jammel Jammel says and I have met you and right off I could tell you are a very good Human,we were very suprised to see you perform to a small crowd in Peacedale R.I it was delightful thanks we hope to see ya again from Barb and Tyler in Ct
man, i needed this. thank you. i opened for a big deal band last night and tried to talk to their manager...my cheeks are still burning. been feelin real disheartened but just hearin someone speak truth and realism is sorta makin me feel better. so many people are well meaning (or not) and totally full of shit. thanks for being yourself, otis
Thank you Otis for another great podcast. I have enjoyed your past ones, especially those on John Prime and Tom Petty.. You mentioned Route 66 and it's vintage signs. Have you ever followed the Mother Road out west through New Mexico and beyond? If you do, I would recommend two books: A Wanderer's Guide to New Mexico Volume I and A Wanderer's Guide to New Mexico Volume ll : Route 66 Revisited.. Both are by K. Hilleson and are filled with stories collected on the road. Some are historical facts, some embellished with retelling, and some are probably outright yarns. As a storyteller yourself, I thought you might enjoy them.
Otis, yes you saved me. Something about your voice, your music, your stories, etc. You and Amie are beautiful! I love you too! The world does need more love! John White
Right on Otis! There are so many artists playing small venues that are SO GOOD! I’m a long-time subscriber who is a Spring Hill,TN transplant from L.A. I saw Tab Benoit w/Alastair Greene at a place called Hop Springs in Murfreesboro. OMG they were SO GOOD! And just playing for their love of music, not fame and fortune. Incredible…
Don't live too far from Art's and have been by it many times, in a car and on a bicycle. And it wasn't open but I stopped at the Tastee Treat in Livingston on one of my longest rides. Was always plotting a ride to Petersburg too but body woes have sidelined me for now. RIP Babs and thanks for a good video as always.
The story about Babs was beautiful. I have 2 strays, Waylon & Johnnie that I’ve had from little kittens. both are getting up there in age now so I know all about the joy that a cat can bring and don’t even want to think about the day they are gone.
Thank you, Otis Happy Saturday. I don't know that I'd want to play in New York or LA, either. It's not likely tgat I will. Always seems better to play for people that want to hear the music, and not be a an ambient decoration for another event. Those are some pretty cool pictures and quite the history of cool and significant places. I recognized the Physical Graffiti building right away. I appreciate the story of Babs. What a beautiful feline. She was a natural model and very photogenic. I'm glad you chose to give her a forever home. ❤ Be good to you
I love this video! As a musician that lived in new york city for many, many years I can say it's something of a bust to make ends meet there and then go out on the road to sleep in a van while still paying NYC rent. Vanity is the right word. A whole lot of what musicians do is for vanity and status. I appreciate your honesty and candor. And I love the channel!
"I'm gonna stop now, before I get all emo and start singing some Morrisey." 😂😂😂 Great job showing us a snapshot of your humanity in one episode, Otis. In that one video, your reflections on performing in The Big Apple and the great history in NY streets swung eventually to a gravestone with a cat perched upon it, and I loved the effortless storytelling that put them in one monologue. Totally different vibes of experience, that of being a gifted performer who can draw a crowd in such a city, and the other is adopting a cat, which we can all relate to. And calling out the angels among us like your buddy Todd Fox is also worth noting. Thanks for another great Sat morning chat while enjoying my coffee.
Thanks Otis! Another awesome story. I know just the feeling and connection with our animals that us humans conjure up and this story brought a few tears to my eyes.
