The Dr. Izzy Band

When world renowned bass player and producer Kenny Passarelli (Joe Walsh, Elton John, Hall & Oates, Stephen Stills, Dan Fogelberg, Otis Taylor) and Grammy winning engineer Clark Hagan (Chet Atkins, Ray Stevens) heard demos of Dr. Izzy's songs, it was clear that a CD had to be made. Grammy winner and legendary blues harp player James Cotton (Sonny Boy Williamson II, Howlin’ Wolf, Muddy Waters, solo) heard some of the songs, and immediately said he would like to contribute. He is featured on the song “Matches Don’t Burn Memories”. Izzy is also joined by Telarc recording artist and trance blues originator Otis Taylor playing banjo on the song “Old Black Crow”. The songs have been mixed by yet another Grammy winner, Tim Stroh at Madhouse Recorders. “Blind and Blues Bound” is the debut CD from the Dr. Izzy Band.

Dr. Izzy is a singer…many fans already know that Dr. Izzy is also BLIND. “I always tell people ‘There are so many ways too see’, she says, “You can feel peoples’ energy, discern their mood, through their voices and through the touch of their hand”.

Born with full vision in Texas, and growing up in rural New Mexico, she began to go blind at age nine. She started singing in clubs and festivals at age 18 and did so for several years. When Izzy had to put music and singing on the back burner, she enrolled into college and received her Doctor of Chiropractic degree as a result.

She met guitarist Robert Morrison in 2002 when she decided to return to singing. Two years later they were married, and soon started writing songs together.

“I sing about very good things in my life, and some very bad things. A lot of what I’ve been through as a blind person has caused me to reflect on what it might have been like for other minorities throughout history.” Dr. Izzy can relate to people’s ambitions and aspirations being limited by the attempts of others. Everyday of her life she has experienced preconceived ideas about what a blind person can or cannot do. As delivered within the songs, she is a survivor in the strictest sense of the word. The songs deal with subjects such as alcoholism, abuse, cancer survival, and personal relationships. She has overcome quite a bit of adversity, and it is shown in her music.

Izzy’s amazing story is woven into songs that demand attention, both musically and lyrically. She is quick to point out that “Robert is a great guitar player and song writer. One of his best talents is finding ways to merge my words, lyrical phrases and musical ideas with his own, and turn them into really good songs”.

The many trials and tribulations along the way of Izzy's life is where the blues comes from in her music. This album is autobiographical; the good times and the bad times. The music is heart felt, soulful, empowering, and wrenching all at the same time. The story keeps unfolding”, she says as she begins to smile. Once you hear “Blind and Blues Bound” you will live the story too; through the songs and through Dr. Izzy’s voice! Visit the official website at drizzyband.com for more info and merchandise.