Saturday, 12 May 2018 20:53

Remembering King Bee (May 9, 2018)

Joey with Hamp King Bee Swain at Macon Music Book ReleaseIt isn't often that a young person in any industry can find a true friend and mentor, someone that is successful and who wants to see you reach those same heights of success in your chosen vocation.

In my case, I have been blessed to have a few mentors that have filled this roll with honor, paying forward the assistance they once so desperately needed - I try to do the same whenever possible.

One of those chosen few individuals in my life has been Hamp Swain, The original King Bee.

Hamp is a Georgia Music Hall of Fame inductee and so much more. He was very much part of so many Macon legends breaking in to the wider world.

As one of the most prominent DJ's in the south, Hamp had a voice like no other. If I had to compare him to someone I guess it would be James Earl Jones, a truly unique talent!

Hamp was so helpful to me when I first got my start promoting independent music on terrestrial radio. He even lended his voice to the intros of 2 of my first shows, "Home Grown" on 96.5 The Shack and later the "I-Q" and then still later to the "Georgia Jazz and Blues Hour" on WNEX 107.5.

Hamp was always offering advice and guidance. I'll never forget that he thought I should bill myself as an entertainer as "Sir Joey". I never did, but perhaps I will yet.

Here is a great picture of my dear friend and mentor.

I got the news today, 5/9, also my sweet wife, Jennifer's, birthday that Hamp had passed.

I will miss him and with a grateful heart remember his kindness and talent!

Rest well my friend, until we meet again, Sir Joey!

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Showcase Tracks
Select favorites from some of Joey's top albums, plus a bonus tribute to Joey.
"When I was about 12 years old, I became a fan of public radio and the classic and modern radio shows they broadcast, not to mention the amazing music and news programs that are at the heart of public radio. I was very sick as a child as the result of a brain tumor which is also the reason I am blind. One of my favorite shows was made by the company ZPPR out of New York. George Zar one of the founders and I became friends. I called George once, at the age of 12 or 13 and told him I was a fan. I got letters from the cast of the ZPPR productions wishing me well and to get better and then they even named a character of the show after me. Here is a clip where that character was featured." —Joey
Album Record

Runnin'
Album Record

Still Me, Sane And Free
Album Record

Take A Walk In The Shadows
Album Record

Truth Is A Misty Mountain
Album Record

We'll See
Album Record

ZPPR Tribute to Joey