In Freeport, IL on July 8th, 2005, a special treat was in store for those who came to see Port Bluez reunite with Ernie "Sugar Lips" Brown in a performance at "Blues on Chicago."  It was a perfect warm summer night and all appreciated the two hour performance of regular Port Bluez members: Dave Stine in his colorful shirt playing guitar and singing vocals, Clyde Cole also on guitar and vocals, "Piano" Bob Lowther on keyboard and vocals, Harvey Wilhelms on bass and Frank Whalen on drums and vocals. Ernie Brown also sang and shared harmonica spots with Ted Lawrence from Johnny and the Boomers. 

The first set got the crowd fired up with the likes of Wang Dang Doodle, Darlin', No More Doggin', and Phone Booth and the second set with tunes such as Tore Down, Hey Bartender and Flip Flop Fly.  A highlight of the night was watching Bob Lowther's enthusiastic rendition of Caldonia while pumping up his good friend Ernie "Sugar Lips" Brown on the harp.  It was interesting to hear a band with five capable singers and so many different styles on the tunes.  It was also good seeing a band enjoying each other so much and having such a good time with the music.  It was a great night of music.  

On a personal note, I would like to thank Port Bluez for putting this gig together; it was so good to see Ernie play with you all again.  Also it was very touching to see Ernie's hometown fans and friends come up to say "hey" to him and give him a pat on the back even in the middle of tunes. 

A special mention should be of Ted Lawrence who sat in on the harp with Ernie.  He is a real-deal Chicago style blues harmonica player.  You can catch him with Johnny and the Boomers and at music jams in Rockford.