This here is a tale about a good guy from Slatter's Court, that storied, somewhat seedy enclave down by the train tracks in Davis, CA. A modest man who wrote outsider poetry and lyrics, and who amused many and brightened plenty of average days in his various guises.
A well-known figure in the Davis musicians’ community, Bob was a gifted guitar player, songwriter and singer. He played in several bands, including Fun Attic, Anywhere But Iowa, Polyester Jones, ChickeeBob and B&K Roadshow as well as performing solo as “Bobnoxious.” A prodigious composer of original music and lyrics, his songs were clever, wry and expressive of his real-life experiences and observations. He enjoyed organizing “Bobbapalooza” concerts where he performed music and provided free beer for his many fans.
From his song, "Olive Drive"
Dreadlocked girls, roamin' through yards
While the CEOs are smokin' their cigars
Tattoed skaters crashin' on asphalt
Hired a lawyer says it's not his fault
Pitbulls on leashes, livin' on scraps
Inebriated mendicants diggin' through trash
Handrolled cigarettes, fortified wine
Smokin' blunts and passin' the time
Bob was well known to the KDRT community and occasionally played benefits for the station. He and I shared a personal affinity for all things dog, and had long chats about canines we had known and loved. Others knew him for his longtime work as a landscaper, or his love of Ultimate. Any time I'd cross paths with him, it was always, "anything I can do for the station, Autumn, anything at all--just let me know."
Bob passed in December 2021, at age 59. Way too young, and much missed in our community.
Imagine our surprise a few weeks ago when we received an email from his brother Dave (Bob was one of nine siblings), who let us know that Bob had instructed to him to donate anything remaining from his small estate to KDRT, and that we'd be receiving a bequest of $5,000. Dave notes, "Bob is forever in our hearts, and I’m really proud to pass along his donation to KDRT – a great Davis community resource that so many people including Bob have a wonderful connection to."
And as 7-11 is one of the special days when their family remembers Bob, KDRT will air a special broadcast at 3 pm today. Tune in at 7 pm tonight on July 11 to hear a special live recording of the song 7-11, and again at 9 pm for more tribute. You can also watch Bob perform with his full band, starting at 46 minutes in here (tip of the hat to longtime Nexus Stage Producer Cliff Gamble).
With much gratitude to the Wertzberger family, and a big howdy to Bob as I walked the dog this morning.
--Autumn Labbe-Renault
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