about our band

During the 1970s Byther “Smitty” Smith became internationally recognized as an obscure but deserving cult figure among blues fans, based on live performances and only a handful of singles -- collectors' items dating back to the '60s

His punchy, economical guitar statements and extraordinarily emotional singing place him securely among the legends whose music he has woven into his own powerful, vital stylings.

Byther recently returned from Lucerne, Switzerland and headlined at the 2013 Lucerne Blues Festival. Byther wishes to thank the hosts, sponsors and fans for all of their hospitality, support and enthusiasm.

When Smitty turned 80, his 80th birthday was celebrated at Kingston Mines. Smitty was quoted as saying "I am going to keep playing as long as I can and share my songs with all of the fans, new and old". Watch for him in your local area, as he is frequently called to Eurpoe, Asia and South America, as well as East or West Coast venues. He prefers to bring his Chicago based band of 8 years, but may entertain other offers.

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latest News

 

Kingston Mines
Smitty will be coming back home to the fabulous Kingston Mines on September 26th and 27th, 2014. Its been several months since Smitty's last stop at the Kingston and he is eager to catch up with all of his Chicago fans. Tickets are available through www.ticketweb.com or can be purchased at the door..

Kingston MInes - 46th Anniversary
Kingston Mines is going to be celebrating it's 46th Annivesary as the Primo Chicago Blues Center on May 16th and 17th, 2014. Byther Smith and emminent blues artist Eddie Shaw will be holding down the Fort and pumping out great Chicago Blues that weekend. For ticket information, please call Kingston Mines or purchase online at Ticketweb.com.

Kingston Mines - 2014 Blues Festival Spectacular
Kingston is going to be celebrating the 2014 Chicago Blues Festival and have booked notable Chicago Blues Greats Byther Smith and emminent blues artist Eddie Shaw. They will be holding down the fort and pumping out great Chicago Blues that weekend. (Stay tuned, as other Blues Artists may be in the House after playing the Blues Festival and be invited to the stage). For ticket information, please call Kingston Mines or purchase tickets online at Ticketweb.com.

 

Booking Opportunities
Byther Smith is available on a limited basis for Blues Festivals, concerts, corporate events and club appearances. However, when workiing at clubs, Byther is only available for one or two shows. For more information and specifics, please contact Rick Hackley at (708) 269-9277. He can also be reached via his email address at: rhackley@chitownmusic.com.

 


musical videos

Live at the Natural Rhythm Social Club (August 2007)

Byther Smith and notable Chicago Blues sidemen crank out some electrifyiing blues in this Southside Chicago Landmark..

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latest albums

 

Blues on the Moon (2007)


The evening of Friday, August 17th. 2007, Byther Smith brought his faultless deep sense of blues to the National Rhythm Social Club, which opened its doors wide to do a show together with his band musicians a real priceless performing of the most passionate warm Chicago blues ever heard, on a perfect communication with the audience. more

Born to be a Champion (2007)

 

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Appearing live at
Kingston Mines, Chicago, IL

 

Friday & Saturday

September 26th and 27th , 2014

 

 

buy tickets

   

YOU TUBE VIDEO from 2013 Lucerne Blues Festival

Byther Smith live at the 2013 Lucerne Blues Festival