Artist Spotlight: The Cat Daddy Blues Band

"The blues, you can play the blues forever..."

We recently caught up with local blues legend, Jim "Cat Daddy" Richmond at Seville Quarter for the weekly gathering of the Blues Society of Northwest Florida. He was performing with The Cat Daddy Blues Band that night, but found time to chat with our very own Brian Butler and the Beatman himself, Richard NaVarre.

Watch the full Artist Spotlight video below:

Click to watch our Artist Spotlight video with Jim "Cat Daddy" Richmond.

Twenty Five Years Playing the Blues in Pensacola

Jim Richmond, also known as "Cat Daddy," has been a fixture in the blues scene for over 25 years. As the frontman of The Cat Daddy Blues Band, Richmond’s guitar work and rich, gritty vocals have earned him a loyal following, and his journey through the music world is one of passion, dedication, and an unwavering love for the blues.

A Journey Through Music: From Classic Rock to Blues

Richmond’s musical journey began long before he formed The Cat Daddy Blues Band. He recalls a time when what is now considered classic rock, was brand new, one that shaped his early musical experiences. In his late 50s, after performing a variety of music, Richmond found himself questioning the direction of his career. "I just felt… why am I up here singing some 20-year-old kid’s song?" he explains. It was around this time that Richmond turned to the blues, a genre that would allow him to continue performing with authenticity and passion for years to come.

Unlike other styles of music that often have an expiration date, the blues, in Richmond's eyes, is timeless. "The blues, you can play the blues forever," he says with a smile. The ability to stay true to the music that touches the soul is what drew him to the blues, and it’s a sentiment that fuels his performances to this day.

The Cat Daddy Blues Band: A Legacy in the Making

The Cat Daddy Blues Band has become synonymous with powerful blues and soulful performances. Richmond’s partnership with Howie Erskine, his bass player in both the duo and the full band, has been a key ingredient to their musical chemistry. Howie’s bass lines provide a solid foundation for the band’s energetic and heartfelt performances. Together, they’ve created a sound that resonates with audiences across Northwest Florida and beyond.

Richmond also emphasizes the importance of local venues like Five Sisters Blues Café, where the band plays every five weeks. As part of the Blues Society in Northwest Florida, The Cat Daddy Blues Band helps curate the live music experience, rotating in six different bands for Friday night performances. Richmond is deeply invested in the local music scene, and his support for venues like Five Sisters is evident.

A Love of Performing and Community

The Cat Daddy Blues Band doesn’t just stick to one venue; they play all over the area, including festivals in Destin and 30A. The band's live performances are a true reflection of their love for the blues and their commitment to keeping the genre alive. "We get around," Richmond says, speaking about the band's extensive performance schedule. Their ability to connect with audiences, whether at a cozy café or a bustling festival, speaks to the enduring power of their music.

Richmond’s pride in his local community shines through as he mentions the importance of platforms like "Scene Pensacola" which helps bands get their gigs listed and seen by a wider audience. He encourages fellow musicians to take advantage of such opportunities, recognizing how vital community support is for the growth of the music scene. (We agree! Thanks for the plug! -Ed)

The Heart and Soul of the Blues

At the heart of the Cat Daddy Blues Band is a dedication to the music, a devotion that has kept Richmond and his bandmates playing, creating, and sharing the blues for over two decades. "The voice is rich and gritty, guitars are crying low," Richmond sings, capturing the essence of what the band is all about. They aren’t just performing songs; they’re telling stories through their music, stories that resonate deeply with every listener.

As Richmond continues to lead The Cat Daddy Blues Band, his love for the blues remains unwavering. He’s not just a performer; he’s a storyteller, a guide, and a dedicated advocate for the music he believes in. His message to aspiring musicians and music lovers alike is simple: stay true to what moves you, and never stop playing.

Want to learn more about The Cat Daddy Blues Band? Check them out in the Band Directory below: