Bobby “BlackHat” Walters, Virginia’s Blues Ambassador, award winning recording artist, harmonica player, vocalist, songwriter, comedian, producer, and actor hails from Cleveland, Ohio and currently resides in Newport News, VA. He has been playing harmonica for over 45 years.
BlackHat is a retired U.S. Coast Guard Commander with 27 years of distinguished service which included serving as Military Aide to the President and being awarded the Coast Guard Medal for Heroism. Musically, Bobby has opened for legends: B.B King, Taj Mahal, Delbert McClinton, Patty Labelle, Ramsey Lewis, and Maze. He has also performed with Eddie Shaw, Kenny Neal, Ruthie Foster, Tas Cru, Jason Ricci, Slam Allen, Mick Kolassa, and Fernando Jones; and is a judge for the International Blues Challenge.
BlackHat blends the influences of Chicago, Memphis, Piedmont, and Delta style blues along with a little Gospel into a toe tappin’, finger poppin’, hip shakin’ blues experience…normally. Being a songwriter, he captures the good, bad, and ugly moments of life through his lyrics. Sometimes that inspiration comes from tragedy. This moment of tragic, unwanted inspiration begat “Blues for Ukraine.”
Bobby BlackHat wrote and sings the lyrics, while his bandmate Danny Lubertazzi provides lead, rhythm and bass guitars.
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“Blues For Ukraine” is available in most online music stores. Proceeds will be donated to Ukraine relief.
