Jun 26, 2005
I am a big fan of electric blues guitar. I also like to play blues on my Strat and find inspiration in Stevie Ray Vaughan & Jimi Hendrix. I would like to say that you and your playing are inspiration as well. You have a great tone AND great chops. I am 45 years old and it gives me comfort to know that someone with your years of experience is still kicking it. By the way that reminds me of a line from one of my favorite movies, Eddie and the Cruisers II when the fictional Eddie Wilson tells a young hot shot guitar player, "You gotta kick it, not step on it." Are you a fan of these movies? You seem to have much of the same similarities as Eddie from the movie. That would be a compliment. I like to think that if there ever was a true to life Eddie Wilson, you are it. Congrats on getting the cover of Blues Revue. Keep kicking it! Good luck to you and your band!
Best regards,
Joseph Jones
Montgomery, Alabama

Jun 16, 2005
Hope to catch you and the band ... Haven't seen you guys perform in a long while; you're on the road so much ... I realize you've hit the "Big Time" now, but us locals (especially myself) love seeing you play at the intimate clubs. Hope you do again this year.
A friend of mine, Lucy, turned me on to your band in 2000, and I've been buying your music and sharing your band ever since. I really have fun and (much needed fun at that) whenever I see you guys play. Soooo much passion, whoa!
Anyhoo, I'm going off track here, but I wanted to say that this latest CD "Soul Shaker" came out during a crossroads in my own personal life, searching once again for what really matters, and ... I have to say many of your songs inspired me in my own life. Sort of like a confirmation if you will -- to what I've been going through in my life as well. Thank you for the raw, true passion and conviction you shared on this CD. It's like you keep getting better with age. Love It And Love You Guys!
The Little "Red Haired" Girl, Ciao,
Cynthia Waltz

Jun 14, 2005
Hi Mr. Castro! I have been following your career for years now ... I just want to thank you and your excellent band for keeping great music alive in a time where most music is not musical at all. I know your busy, but if you get a chance, please check out my band's website at:
http://flashbackclassicrock.com/gpage.html
I play in this band with two of my brothers and we are pretty well known regionally ... My life's dream is to play at Riverbend which I saw you and your band there a few years ago ... I have been playing blues since I was six. I absolutely love your style and guitar tone ... Also thanks for the autographed pic of the band you sent me awhile back ... it is in my studio, next to BB King and Buddy Guy's autograph.
Keep Bluesin'!
Leo Matthew Chamberlain

May 30, 2005
I have some things I must share with you and the band. You played the Aggie Theatre in Fort Collins, Colorado on May 27, 2005. I attended along with my good friends Sandy, her partner Kuma, and Sandy's 12-year-old daughter Ce'Nedra. You may recall Sandy, Ce'Nedra and myself dancing at the very front of the stage for most of the show. After the show you came by and introduced yourself to Ce'Nedra and Sandy. This letter is to let you know the effect you had on us, and in particular, young Ce'Nedra.
First of all, I will apologize for the pitifully small crowd that night. Fort Collins is (in my not so humble opinion) something of a dorky little college town. A lot of the students there wouldn't know good Blues if it walked up and bit them in the ass. The flip side of that coin is that 'the core faithful', as my friend Kuma put it, got an opportunity to experience the band in a wonderfully intimate setting. That added to the effect of the whole evening. I'm a firm believer that music is magical. It can and does transform people. Of course, I would feel that way. I've been a musician since age 5, got a BA in Music in college, and played in a local Blues band in Denver for five years (keyboards and vocals). I don't play professionally now except on rare occasions. (Before I got very deep into pursuing a music career, I discovered I could write software. That was a much easier way of making a living, and paid a helluva lot more money! ) So I reserve my musical gift for friends, loved ones, and my own edification and amusement. :-) But the effect of music is very, very magical and I love to see it happen. It happened Friday night. Ce'Nedra has been taking guitar lessons for a couple of years. Recently, she's become disillusioned with her teacher. I guess the teacher is pushing the pedagogy and theory and Ce'Nedra is wanting to improvise and jam. So she's been balking at lesson time. She's been listening to quite a bit of blues rock and blues - Stevie Ray Vaughn and others. Mom Sandy certainly didn't want to see Ce'Nedra give up those guitar lessons because the kid is evidently pretty good.
So Mom decided that maybe it was time for Ce'Nedra to attend her first live Blues concert. And since Tommy Castro & Co. were in town Friday night, it was a perfect set-up. Ce'Nedra had never been 'up close and personal' with a professional guitarist before. She was watching closely. I saw her studying Mem Shannon's licks as well. She was truly awe-struck. And then when you came over and spoke with her at the end of the night, well ... she just boiled over completely! She floated about two feet off the car seat all the way back to Denver. Sandy told me she fell asleep reading the CD liner. Sandy had to take it out of her hand. The next day it was time for Ce'Nedra to go home (she lives with her grandmother in Colorado Springs). The story is that she couldn't wait to go home. And Sandy said when they arrived, Ce'Nedra went straight to her room, got out the guitar and started playing. She had experienced a serious attitudinal shift! She and her Mom had a good talk about finding a teacher who knows Blues and can teach her more about that kind of technique. In short, your performance facilitated a musical epiphany for our Ce'Nedra. Obviously, Auntie Marty here is tickled pink about it. I have every intention of having Sandy bring Ce'Nedra over for a jam very soon just to keep the fire burning hot. She's a very bright kid and I'm just delighted to see her get inspired. Thank you for the magic, Tommy.
Finally, I really have to comment that you guys are some of the hardest working musicians I've ever seen. You played a two-hour-plus set the other night!! When I was working, we never did more than an hour without a break. Phew! Yes, playing is great fun and a big high - it always was for me. But it is also very physical, at times grueling work. That stuff makes you sweat! You guys must definitely eat your Wheaties. Wow. Of course, long sets like that are a total treat for the audience. I certainly ate up every minute of it, as did my friends. Thank you for working that hard. It feels like a gift to me. Having been there, I know the level of work you are doing.
We will watch the website and show up en masse the next time you are in Colorado. Blessings and safety to you and the whole crew. Thank you for the sweet, sweet Blues.
Marty Hendricks

May 21, 2005
I just saw your show here in Rio (Brazil) last night with my girlfriend and, man, I gotta say we were completely blown away! It was an _awesome_ show: terrific musicians, the songs were kick ass, and you've shown remarkable stage presence and communicability with a foreign audience. I'd also like to point your amazing skills as a guitar player -- it's been quite a while since I saw someone play Blues guitar as you do. Sometimes your style even reminded me of SRV.
I was really looking forward to talking to you guys after the show and buy an (autographed ;-)) CD, but I made the stupid mistake of assuming you'd be there until the end of Rod Piazza's show, and lost the opportunity. Man, I'll regret this forever... unless, of course, you come back here to Brazil sometime, which I really hope you do ;-)
So, please, consider dropping by some more times, I am pretty sure you'll be welcome by eager Blues fans more and more, as people get to know your work (I must admit it was the first time I heard you play). As for me and my girlfriend, rest assured you have got two new fans down here in this tropical land ;-)
Peace, and keep on Bluesin',
Andre Costa (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil)

Mar 26, 2005
I finally figured out the only thing wrong with listening to the Tommy Castro Band is when the music ends.
Happy Easter,
Rosa Smit

Mar 5, 2005
I just got finished listening to your latest CD, 'Soul Shaker', and yeah, this is what I've been waiting for. Great Stuff! I have kept my eye on your web site waiting for news of this release, and as usual, you haven't disappointed one of your greatest fans. I happen to agree with Michael Cote of Blues Revue mag. In his review of this CD he said there would be many people who would cover cuts on this CD, and I think the only problem would be "which one". They are all excellent. Keith does a great job on 'The Crossonova'. Your vocals and soul on 'No One Left To Lie To' are some of the most soulful and heartfelt sounds I've heard in quite some time. The whole CD is a must for any true blues fan, but for us TCB purists, its probably one of the best you've done. Thank You! You make me anxious for your next project ... By the way, been listening to your radio station on the net. Keep up the good work. I enjoy the commentary you add to the play list.
Good stuff, Tommy!
Stephen Zamarripa

Feb 28, 2005
I had so much fun at The Mystic in Petaluma last Saturday night. It was an awesome show. You guys are better than ever! We've been going to your shows for nine years and we have never been disappointed by you or your band. Of course I've been looking forward to getting your newest CD, and again I was not let down. I love it. The more I hear of it the more I like it. Thank you for being so gracious and friendly. And by the way, I really liked your shirt! Please never stop being the Tommy Castro Band.
Love, Connie Bible

Feb 18, 2005
To Tommy and his Team,
Had discovered you on Coco Montoya Web Site, and then I booked for the 2005 Blues Cruise. We were so Lucky to have you host the first late jam night! Well, got us to bed pretty late that night! It was really Great! I assisted to all of your performances and was really amazed of your presence on stage, always smiling and giving to your public. Made All the Ladies Dream! The guitar workshop was also excellent! I can see the difference with a band crew that has been playing together for a long time. The presence on stage is much tighter and warmer! We get Great performers who come down here and don't have their regular musicians with them and there is a noticeable difference.
Came home with some CDs and I really enjoy 'Live at Fillmore', and 'Soul Shaker'. I just love that Blues Rockin Funky stuff. I know the cruise would not have been the same without you guys there! Hope they keep you on that boat for years to come. ... Hope you come to Montreal International Jazz & Blues Festival again soon. May Heaven Above keep you all working together, cause ... you make a Great Team!
Keep the Blues & Rockin & Funky Alive!
Jeannie Jalbert
Montreal, Q,C

Feb 13, 2005
Thank you so much for blowin' the roof right off the State Theatre in Kalamazoo last night. It was one hell of a show, Anthony Gomes was good, but the Tommy Castro Band was a lot better. I'm so glad I brought my camera with me because I got some great shots of you guys (especially Keith and Tommy because they're closer.) Tommy, thank you for taking a picture with me, that is going to be a memory that will be in my heart forever, and Randy, thanks for signing a couple of CDs for me that was special to because that was the first time I had ever talked to you. Well, once again thanks for being a grand presence and I'll see you guys at the "Blues on the Mall" in Grand Rapids.
Sincerely,#1 Fan
Trevor Rangel

Feb 10, 2005
My name is Jeff Traxler. Last September you were kind enough to sign a guitar for me. That instrument was raffled off in November, and it sold over $1200.00 dollars worth of tickets. This is the fourth year in a row that I have donated one of my hand-made guitars, and would really appreciate if you could sign this one too!! I am coming up to Kalamazoo on Friday for the show, and I am bringing the guitar with me. All of the proceeds go to the Black Swamp Blues Society in Toledo Ohio. I hope to get a chance to talk with you at the show.
Thanks,
Jeff Traxler

Feb 10, 2005
Congratulations on the new CD making it to the Billboard chart so quickly. I'm looking forward to getting a copy tonight at the Magic Bag (which will be the 5th time I've seen you guys). Maybe this will be the one to get you to Memphis for the 2006 Handy Awards. I'm spreading the word every chance I get.
Kevin Herron

Feb 09, 2005
Just received "Soul Shaker". WOW! This is so hot! Are you familiar with Huey Lewis? I used to see them out on the Miracle Mile at a place called The Lion's Chair or Share. They used to be called the Cloverdales, or something like that. Man, that goes back to the late 60's early 70's. The beat, the horns, the hard drive of this CD just sends me back to those early days.
Keep on rocking, and I'll keep on driving.
Tim Cassidy

Feb 8, 2005
Hey Guys,
Just got home from the B.B. King's show: outstanding! What a jam. I haven't seen you in ten years, and you still kick ass. I said 'Hello' to Tommy. You guys played at my family's party in San Fran with Attorney Melvin Belli, ten-eleven years ago, and I used to see you almost every weekend at Lous Blues, JJ's, and The Saloon. Anyway, it was so good to see you and my new husband. Well, you blew him away. Next time you're in the area, we will see ya.
Much love, keep Rockin,
Darlene Argenta

Feb 3, 2005
Y'all rocked the other night at the Double Door. The crowd was frenzied, and I loved every minute of it. Your new album, "Soul Shaker", is your best yet. There are so many songs on it that I absolutely LOVE!. 'Just Like Me', 'Anytime Soon', 'The Next Right Thing', 'What Are You Gonna Do Now' and 'Wake Up Call' are some of the finest songs I've heard in a long time. I sincerely believe this will be your "breakout" album. I have heard that Billboard Magazine has given it four stars and I know they are notorious for undermining a blues album. Wow! I'm still feeling the good vibes from the show and from the Sandy Beaches Cruise. You guys are the hardest working men in show business, and I know that you do it for the love of music. All of you guys play your instruments so well. I love that driving backbeat. Quite frankly, I had not had the pleasure of hearing your music till the Delbert cruise. Thank God for me lucking into that. Rarely is it that I hear a band for the first time and they enter my must-see-every-time [list].
Curtis Ingram

Feb 3, 2005
Thanks for coming to Annapolis. We drove two hours to see you for the second time and it was more than worth it. The first time we saw you was when you were on the ticket with John Hiatt, Buddy Guy, and BB King. That night opened our eyes to a whole genre(for us)of music. Needless to say, all we listen to now are the Blues.
Thanks to opening our ears.
Erik Haugen

Feb 03, 2005
Tommy,
Your performance was truly incredible, down here at Lou's Blues in FL last Sat night. The band was tight and your guitar chops and vocals were dead on. You really connected with the crowd. You didn't even miss a note when the PA cabinet fell over backwards, almost taking out your sax man. Thanks for making great music. Love the new CD.
Greg Hinton

Feb 3, 2005
First heard you on "Exile on Blues Street". You did a good job covering the Stones, bro. Wanted you to know I'm a singer/drummer and I'm covering a song you recently recorded, "Shaking the Hard Times Loose". You sound even better than Delbert on this cut, and wanted you to know you've inspired me to start singing some lead again ... while I'm performing drumming duties ... not too easy, but a lot of fun!
Teddy B
(Ted Thorsen)

Feb 03, 2005
Tommy,
I had been looking forward to you coming to the east coast. I saw you at Rams Head (Annapolis) last night. You didn't disappoint. You have incredible stage presence, great guitar skill and an incredibly bluesy voice (Otis/James B). But most importantly, it appears you are having fun. You signed my CD after your show, and you were very personable (to everyone). THIS is rare. Having DJ'd and played in bands for twenty years I know it is not always easy to be friendly to your audience, especially when you are tired. Thanks for a great show. And thank God there are still true ARTISTS out there for our listening pleasure! Great band mates too. Keep on keepin' on.
Gary Buzbee

Jan 31, 2005
Wanted you to know how much we loved having you on the LRBC. Hope you return. your collective smiles on stage light up the room and give the show a spirit of joy that is contagious. It adds so much to your persona. You practice hard and it shows. You all are totally confident, and totally focused, and love what you are doing. I was thinking, Tommy and the guys made the right decision becoming musicians. Can't imagine you all doing anything else. Except Randy could be a full time surfer boy. Best wishes and have fun Friday in my home turf, Annapolis-Maryland's proud capital, home of the naval academy and great seafood. Be sure to have a crab cake and stop at McGarvey's for a locally brewed Aviator Beer.
Love and peace to all.
Marcy Brown
Lead Singer, Sweaty Betty Blues Band, Out Of Pittsburgh

Jan 29, 2005
Hi,
My boyfriend wanted me to tell you this. Last May you were in Lodi CA, and I really wanted to go see you and go dancing. My boyfriend had been having severe back problems since the February before and really wasn't sure about going, but since I really wanted to go, and being the nice guy he is, he took me. That night we danced our guts out ... it was great. What happened was a miracle!!! His back was fixed.
Thanks so much!
Debra Heine

Jan 25, 2005
Hi Tommy,
I know you might not read this, but I want to tell you how awesome you guys were at Skippers. I like the new CD and thanks for getting your picture taken with me. I'm 73 years old, and have seen lots of live music, but yours hit the top of the list. I wish we could have stayed through the 2nd set, but my daughter had been up since 4:30 am. As we were leaving, I heard you playing 'Nasty Habits', and that was one of the songs I wanted to hear you play last year in Ybor. Well, I better shut up, but I want to tell you again thanks for getting in a picture with me. It meant a lot to me, I hope I'm alive next year to hear you guys. Maybe my wife will be able to come with me, to have you knock her out of her shoes with your music.
Thanks,
Jim Cook

Jan 20, 2005
Keith,
Just wanted to send u your 'props' for "Hycodan". If there were ever a sultry sexy tune for a lady to dance to for her man this is it. Hope u will do more. Somethin' tells me there is a smoldering fire there.
Thanx,
Linda Smit

Jan 19, 2005
Hey Tommy And Randroo,
I spent last nite listening to "Soul Shaker", with Ms. Jennifer and my son, Julian. It was agreed it's your best recording: great songwriting, soulful guitar, great arrangements; a major leap with cross-over appeal; Roots Rock! Roots charts (ala' Dave Alvin - Blasters). Congratulations to all! Saw Mack Rice last week in Detroit. He was asking about you; sends his regards. Alotta love from Toledo. Remember: Mature Music For Mature People With Mature Money!
Rockford
(John Rockwood)