Howdy all -

I'd like to introduce myself - I am Jody's eldest daughter, Joyce (Katzberg). I am new to Mudcat and I'm very glad that my good friend the Seagoddess has been so kind as to put up a notice about Barry Mazors' book about Jimmie Rodgers.

I haven't read it yet but I am looking forward to seeing how Barry Mazor talks about Jody's contributions to the evolution of the song "Muleskinner Blues" which my dad recorded as "Good Morning Captain". My sister, Kate Katzberg has recently been doing a bang up job of the song herself.

I know that he does mention Jody working with George Martin when we lived in England. I'm glad that he included that fact as there have been many people over the years who have doubted that my father did all of the things he said he had. Jody was quite an eclectic guy with a wide variety of life experiences. Some of Jody's stories might have seemed far fetched but he was a scrupulously honest man and usually downplayed rather than overplayed his experiences. He led a singularly interesting life.

I too wish that he had lived long enough to see this book come out. When I spoke with Mr. Mazor he was genuinely impressed with Jody's genre bending capacities. I'm sure he would have thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the Cranky Yankee himself.

Thanks again to the Goddess for letting you all know the book is out. Thank you to all of you who were his online friends. I know he loved this website and community and tried to get me to join for years. I look forward to checking in with you all.

Your sister in song,
Joyce Katzberg