DON’T GET HBO

When we were in New Orleans for French Quarter Festival, the HBO series Treme was the talk of the town. People who didn’t get HBO were going to bars that did to watch the premiere. I enjoyed your article on the series and have heard nothing but good things about it. I haven’t seen it. I don’t get HBO.

I’m sure I won’t be the first or the last person to point out that the very people who are the stars of the series and people similarly situated in other cities, i.e. poor people, are least able to watch it because of the expense of getting HBO. This is, at best, unfortunate. Proving once again it’s all about the dollar bill.

Yes, no doubt boxed sets will be available for the whole season eventually. And no, no one has a right to watch a television show. Nonetheless, it seems a pity that the people involved in making what sounds like a really cool program are taking such pains to “get it right” as far as the show’s content, but seemed to have missed the boat on who has access to it when it is broadcast.

—Ann Weatherhead, Cleveland Heights, OH

GIFT TO ANTOINE

After reading Alex Rawls’ April review of Bobby Charles’ Timeless CD, I feel compelled to share this information.

First of all, Bobby took great care in programming the CD. It was, after all, his parting birthday gift and loving tribute to his longtime close friend Antoine Fats Domino. That’s why the first tune you hear is “Happy Birthday Fats Domino.” If you think this is a song to be played only on Fats’ birthday, you’ll be missing out on 364 chances to tap your foot and smile.

Since Bobby knew death was near but wasn’t fearful, it was no surprise that he wanted to reminisce with some songs from the past including “Rollin’ Round Heaven.”

Being the humanitarian that he was, it was equally no surprise that he would leave us a serious message in “Clash of Cultures” and “Take Back My Country.” And in the end, he showed he still had his sense of humor with “Happy Halloween.”

What a joy to hear and feel the presence of Bobby’s best friend and writing partner Mac Rebennack a.k.a. Dr. John sittin’ ’n’ standin’ at the piano and organ and co-producing this irreplaceable gift to Antoine and all the rest of the planet. Rest in peace, Bobby, you lovable Pisces. After a while crocodile.

—Sandy Warren, Atlantic City, NJ