Hey everyone, Its been a good 25 year run in Chicago but it’s time for a new chapter. I moved here in 1996 during my “blues phase” and got to meet, play, record, and tour with some really great Chicago blues legends, new artists, and local players including; Eddy “The Chief” Clearwater, Willie Kent, Guy King, Rockin’ Johnny Burgin, Dave Hole, Detroit Jr., Big Time Sarah, Barkin’ Bill Smith, Bonnie Lee, Magic Slim, Otis Rush, Billy Branch, Bob Carter, Kenny Smith, Sharon Lewis, Tom Holland, Little Ed & The Blues Imperials, Bill Hickey, Little Arther, Vanessa Davis, and Jo Jo & the Blues Train to name a few.
In between gigs, I worked in repair shops and Music Stores, most notably, John Shaw’s “The Music Store” for 10 years, developed the Sweet Amplification line of hand wired all tube amps, and in 2011, I became the in house amp tech/Amp Works department of Chicago Fret Works which also became the new home for Sweet Amplification. I am grateful for the experience and support I received from owners Steve Baker and Dan Wolf. They trusted me to handle all amp related matters, built out a great space for the Amp Works part of the shop, provided a very relaxed and comfortable work environment, and introduced me to many new friends and clients including local/national indy band Wilco, Jeffy Tweedy, and the team from “the loft” which lead to building a custom amp for Pat Sansone dubbed the “Sansonic” which has been on several tours with both Wilco and The Autumn Defense since 2013.
It is with much appreciation and some apprehension that I have decided to move on to greener/warmer pastures. Chicago is a top notch city but the long, cold, and dark winter doesn’t agree with my aging bones, arthritis, and mental health. After getting vaxed and taking a few brief scouting trips, I have decided to make a new start in sunny Tucson AZ. I know it’s not a music mecca like Nashville, Austin, or Nola, but it’s absolutely beautiful, peaceful, and has it’s own unique music, artistic, and cultural scene that I’m looking forward to exploring.
I’ll most likely be opening my own shop in early 2022 and will be excepting new orders and even shipped repairs. Stay tuned and thanks for your interest and support!
Cheers! – Pat McKeever
