Harvey Berman Leaves a Legacy of Love

On Sunday the 22nd of September, the Paradise beach bar payed homage to local legend, Harvey Berman.

I was honored, when Karen Drennon-Poulin, a close personal friend of Harvey's asked if I had an interest in covering his celebration of life on Sunday, Sept 22 at Paradise Beach Bar. Of course I answered in the affirmative as my own experience with Harvey Berman, though brief, was special in a way that will stay with me forever.

It was about three years ago.....I was investigating open mic opportunities in Pensacola when I happened upon Calvert's In The Heights on a Thursday evening. Rocky Denny and his brotherhood of the blues had just completed their opening set. I signed up and sat in not knowing at all what we were going to play. As the musicians were taking the stage, a rather seasoned harp player was unveiling a collection of fine, shiny, hand held instruments. One, firmly gripped in his hand rose to his mouth.....Harvey Berman was about to riff a little while the others were plugging in and preparing. I, on the other hand was familiarizing myself with Scott Calvert's beautiful Ludwig, "Ringo" classic drum kit.

As I sat waiting a bit nervously for Rocky to begin the open, I noticed Harvey looking at me....probably because I was the new kid on the block and had no idea what to expect. Shoot, I was just hoping I could keep up and not make a damn fool out of myself! About then, I looked over at Harvey... he was looking dead at me with a kind smile on his face appearing to communicate non-verbally as it were as the stage confusion was getting organized.

Of course I nodded, then he nodded in return and I noticed him mouthing the words, "You'll be fine, relax!" Wow.....that was all I needed. A sudden boost of confidence came over me like a rush! Not 30 seconds later, Rocky was counting us in and I nailed the intro not knowing "Big Leg Woman" as this was my very first time playing it!

I glanced over at Harvey... his face a glow with satisfaction and delight as I brought us all in with the pickup notes that felt right to me. His smile, now a full blown, glinting eye sign of approval indicated to me that I was on my way. The rest, as they say often, was musical history and the beginning of my Pensacola blues education. I hope you enjoyed that as much as I did remembering it.

Sunday was a very warm day at Paradise Bar, many of Harvey's friends were already in attendance, many of whom were there to pay tribute and play in Harvey's honor. I had requested a covered table up front to capture live video and pictures. Renee Mack was kind and gracious to accommodate the gathering laying out a spread of complimentary beverages for anyone who wished one...the way Harvey would have wanted it.

I was contacted by, and coordinated with Karen Drennon-Poulin, one of Harvey's closest friends and a 25% member of "Harvey's Harem", a four woman entourage of dedicated friends that not only admired Harvey for who he was and his musical prowess, they were always around to raise a glass, share a story and support Harvey in a way only true, close personal friends can. One of the highlights of the event was the toast...all four on stage raising a glass in remembrance and tribute to Harvey's many accomplishments and all the friends and acquaintances he made in his years on this planet.

Throughout the afternoon, many musicians stepped up to offer their talent in Harvey's honor... Rocky Denny led the combined band talent with Charlie's "Hammerheads" and did an excellent job backing all those who contributed special numbers, solos and kind words about a man so many knew to be a mentor, teacher, philosopher, father, musician and friend.

"Harvey was my 8th customer when I opened my harp business years ago. He always had a word of encouragement, and a word of correction when he disagreed with my tech stuff. We talked for hours about music, harps and all sorts of interesting things". -Tom Halchak

"Harvey was the very first player I met when I came to Florida. Harvey excelled at making folks feel right at home, especially when playing music. His 65th birthday party was a stone blast...we played for hours!" -Howie Lipson

It was quite apparent to me, after talking with many who attended this special occasion that Harvey Berman was a man of many parts, talents and abilities. His wisdom, council and advice were valued by all who received it. Many came to play in his honor, make profound statements about his life experiences and took part in the second line march to the bay to leave a flower in remembrance of a great man.

No matter what your experience was with Harvey Berman, I'm sure you'll agree that he was many things to many people... father, friend, musician, harp tech, bourbon connoisseur... One thing for sure, the man had a huge heart and an incredible ability to make anyone feel good about themselves, no matter the circumstances.

I wish to express my sincere gratitude to Renee Mack of Paradise Bar and Grill, and Karen Drennon-Poulin for reserving a table and insuring our needs were met during our time at Harvey's celebration of life. Thank you very kindly indeed for the drinks (Paradise serves the BEST Bushwhackers in town) and for feeding The D-Lady and I. Special thanks to "Brad" our server who made sure we had everything we needed. We were honored to be a part of it all and to chronicle this honored day.......... The Beatman has left the tribute