Lincolnites Turn Out to Honor Magic Slim

Easter Sunday saw many religious celebrations throughout the city, but there was another celebration, perhaps just as important to the folks who were there, at The Zoo Bar.  Magic Slim, a staple of the Lincoln community for decades, passed away on February 21, 2013.  He played, toured, and loved life right up to the end, and it is impossible to know how many lives he touched.  He was a friend, family man, and an internationally renowned Chicago blues artist, and on March 31^st, Lincoln turned out to celebrate the life of one of our own. 

The Bel Airs kicked off the party, and were followed by The Tijuana Gigolos, The Lil’ Slim Blues Band, and The Zoo Bar House Band.  Several folks stepped in to jam, and the audience was lively and appreciative.  The crowd was especially responsive to Shawn “Lil’ Slim” Holt’s announcement that Levi William would be joining him and the Teardrops.  Holt’s motto has been “The Future of the Blues,” and indeed, he his taking the reins in a big way.  We wish these guys the best of luck out there. 

The mixture of friends, musicians present made Magic Slim’s Celebration of Life one of the happiest, liveliest, and most genuinely fun events this town has ever seen.  All proceeds at the door went to Ann Holt; all the musicians donated their time.  Thanks to Pete, Jeff, Amanda, and The Zoo Bar staff who also made it possible.  And Slim, even in your absence, you threw one heck of a party.  Thanks for being part of our lives.