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With any person involved in the music industry, there is and always has been GOSSIP. This page is dedicated to the rumors that we know have been out about Walter as well as the things said that are indeed true. Relax and enjoy our own internet tabloid. And we're telling it all!!!! Home Bio Photo Gallery Gossip Schedule Store News
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The Cat/ The Crabs: Gone, Gone, Gone. Those of
you that have been keeping up with my gossip page know that I spoke of
"Jazz" my cat, and My beloved Hermit crabs.... Well needless to say..
They're all history. I gave the cat to my friends daughter and the crabs
went into that big shell in the sky. I get emails often with people asking
me about my pets. Well I am pet free at this time. My Tattoos: Since I got my tattoo I've been questioned about the Eagle, the #7, and the scar around it. Well here it is in a nutshell... I love what the eagle represents and the ability it has to soar above the rest. On my last birthday, I decided to get something to remind me when I look in the mirror what I am... The #7 has been a part of my life since birth... I would spend hours explaining how that number relates to me. The SCARS!!! I am still pissed about that. I initially went in to get the #7 on my chest. ( I actually have it aligned with my necklace in case I forget it). Anywayz.. One of the big mouthed assistants decided that he could do 5 of the seven stars I had planned to have around the seven.. He screwed them up, I got pissed and burned them off. (Bleached them and it hurt like hell!!!) I know it sounds stupid, but I was not going through the rest of my days with this clowns mistake on me... Instead, I would have those scars as reminders of what happens when I go against my gut. So "NO THEY ARE NOT SHOT GUN PELLETS.." Am I or have I ever been a stripper? (What would give people that idea): I have been asked this question more over the last 4 years than if I was related to Mel. I will just say for the record that I have never danced in a strip club. I was approached by a lady in Wiggins, Mississippi and she just flat out told me I was a stripper and she didn't care what I said. Well...It is what it is...lol
Why Does Walter Play Alone? This questioned was asked by "Pamela". Walter decided after a very stressful period with his third band, to leave that entire concept alone. It was a known fact that Walter often paid band members more than he made at times and was totally turned off by the attitudes that some of the guys possessed. Walter said.." The coolest guy in the whole set up was my drummer, "Ray".. He was on point all of the time. What happened in my case is guys who tried to maintain solo careers saw a chance to live their dreams through me. I would give the guys a chance to shine in the show, allowing them more time than they were worth, and it was never enough. I've heard many women speak about being so sick of the way men used them that they just decided to leave them all alone; I can say I feel that way about having my own band. I prefer to play alone (pun intended). Every now and then I like to get my thrills on and that's when I jam with other bands....All with no strings attached......And when I am booked, I know I will be there and on time, I don't like tardiness or excuses in my band...so being alone works for me". It seems that Walter has no plans on forming a band in the immediate future. Thanks Pamela!
Why Country Music: A concerned supporter emailed me and questioned Walter's involvement in country music. I was wondering when this subject would actually come up. Walter has often talked about how his mother introduced him to everything from The Staple Singers to Conway Twitty (Country Singer), while growing up. he credits that for making him a broad entertainer. When I do a country and western song, I do it in my own style and people seem to dig it". I would say that from knowing Walter, that he is about challenges and shocking people. I also believe that a possible country and western style record is not out of the question for the blues man. History has shown us that it can be done. I think it would be cool. Don't you? Walt's Many Hat's: It is a known fact that Walter has done a lot throughout his 33 years on this planet, and here are a few answers to the questions you asked. Walter has worked as a music therapist, talent show promoter, radio show host and was the PSA Director for radio station KCHL Radio. One occupation that may shock you is that Walter worked at a mental health facility in San Antonio for several years as a security guard. While working at the facility, Walter was known more his wacky sense of humor than for the toughness that comes with the job. Just How Many Hat's does Walter own?: Walter is recognized almost everywhere he goes because of his trademark brim. I'm glad Miss Gladys from Alabama asked this question. Walter owns a total of 15 hats. but only calls three of them his favorites. He is even been known to name them. Walter's dad introduced him to hats at a very early age and Walter says that it has just become a part of him. Player of the year 1998: Walter entered a Player of The Year contest after being dared by a friend to compete. After watching all of the suited players and the endless chatter, Walter walked on stage and brought down the house with free style poem entitled, "If You Wuz Truly A Player" and snatched the victory from the surprised promoter who had already arranged for his friend to take the $500.00 prize. After the winner was chosen and the audience saw that there had been a fix, they began chanting obscenities at the promoter who quickly tried to explain the situation to Walt. The envelope which was supposed to be filled with $500.00 dollars was in reality 20 one dollar bills. Walter did not get upset behind the ordeal and took more pleasure in beating the competition. New Years Surprise: While growing up on San Antonio's eastside, Walter entertained his neighbors each New Years through his bedroom window which faced the street. The neighbors would look forward to hearing his keyboard blasting through the window of the small room that he occupied with his older brother. The catch to the whole story is that it took three years for Walter's mother to realize that the music coming from the street was actually that of her baby boy. It was then that she knew why Walter would seem to disappear during all of the excitement.
The Temper: Walter admits that while growing up, there was a problem with his temper and acknowledges that it is not anything he is proud of. There were only a few things that he would disclose to us, but we were able to get some pretty interesting stuff. 1. He was kicked out of the Alamo in San Antonio, kicked out of his High School band for turning a 15 second solo into a minute which the crowd found entertaining, but the director resented. Walter was asked by the director if he would apologize for what he did and his response was a of course "No". Walter says.." I am in no way a role model in the sense of how I live my life. The Talent Show Days: Before there was the "Bad Boy", there was the fellow known to many as "Kid Casio". In the late 80s, Walter and friend Maurice (Big Moe) Martin had a two piece band that played events around San Antonio; Maurice was the drummer and Walter was the keyboard player. The two were also the musicians for The Mt Ararat Baptist Church. On weekends the guys would compete in local talent shows held often in San Antonio ( often driven there by the Pastor). He and Maurice are still close friends and Walter even gives mention to his buddy on a track from the Laid Back Album. (New Friends) Walter Brother to Popular Belgium Musician/Vocalist: This is true; After the death of Walter's dad in 2003, much of what was unknown about Walter's past had come to light. Through tragedy Walt found that he was part of a much larger family than initially told. One afternoon he received a call from Erezée, Belgium, and was shocked at the news that he indeed has family in the country. The caller was his brother Michel (meeshel), who is also very well known in his country as a gospel singer. At first it was thought that it might have been a joke until Walter saw photos and immediately saw his dads resemblance and read about his quest to find his dad. It turns out that during the war, Walt's dad, who was fluent in 4 languages met with a Belgian woman who in turn gave birth to his brother who has given Walter a host of beautiful nieces and nephews. Walter says; It's great to know these things while you're young, so that opportunities to meet your kin is greater. I know that my brother is many miles away from me, but our paths will meet. I am proud of him and all of his accomplishments and hope that between the two of us we can shake things up from both sides of the globe. Is he kin to Mel Waiters: Walter and Southern Soul Artist Mel Waiters are cousins. Walter doesn't talk much about it because he does not want anyone to assume that he is riding any coat tails. Because of his parents divorce, Walter wasn't exposed to the Waiter's clan until the two met during a high school talent show which Walter was performing in and Mel was hosting. Walter says; "I remember going out and seeing Mel perform in different clubs in San Antonio, I dug his passion, but he was not the reason why I wanted to be in this business....I had been playing for at least 11 years before I'd met him. We talked about me joining his band for a period, but I wasn't ready back then, I was playing for a few gospel quartets and was also being approached by Vernon Garrett's back up band "The Moore Brother's Band; I wasn't ready for them either. Now I know that there was another plan ahead for me, and I'm doing things my way " . Walter is focusing on making his mark in the traditional and contemporary blues world. In closing Walters says " I want a BB King, Ray Charles legacy ".
The encounter that changed his life: In 1994, Walter and a friend went to see Soul and Blues singer Buddy Ace who was performing with Tyrone Davis and Willie Clayton. Walter had already established himself on the entertainment scene in San Antonio, but was always studying other artists in the genre that he considered spirits; To Walter, Buddy Ace was a spirit. After Buddy's performance Walter noticed a dancer strolling through the lobby and the hormones kicked in. While trying to hook up with the dancer, he was asked if he would like to meet Ace; Walter of course said yes. Walter described the meeting as life changing and credits the singer with giving him the spirit to see his dreams through. Buddy Ace passed away just months after that encounter. Walter feels now that he would be doing an injustice if he didn't complete what he told the late singer he would do. What that is he won't say. Little known stuff about Walter
children: 1 daughter, Kaylah Rose from previous marriage. nick name: This varies, mostly it's been Little Walter though. zodiac sign: Cancer/Leo (Cusp) Boxers or Briefs: Boxers Piercing/ Tattoos: (3) Holes in my ears and a Eagle across my chest. Current Residence: Southwest, Oklahoma Biggest Temptation: Same as any mans I guess. Must haves before a tour: Sunflower seeds, portable dvd player, water
Worst Show so far: There was a show in a town where I am sure I was the only black person for at least 30 miles and after I did my show, the owner approached me with a damned check. That was one of the few times I didn't ask for my stuff in advance and didn't use my contracts. I grabbed the check and tore it up and placed it on the bar. I told the owner that I'd chalk it up on experience, and got my ass out of there. I would tell you the name of the place, but you'll more than likely never go there. Best Show so far: My first night alone at The House of Blues in Lawton, Oklahoma. It was a packed house and we partied all night long. I would have to say a close second would be my show in Wichita Falls, Texas. I had a damned good time there. My only set back was, some one came up with the bright idea to switch my liquor and that brought about a feeling I never want to feel again. I was tore up. The Best Fans: Without a doubt, I would say my biggest fans are in Gulfport, Mississippi, then I would say Austin, Texas in a close second. Biggest Regret: At this point I can't regret anything. Now I know there is a larger plan.
favorite food: Straight up soul food. I am a fool for chitterlings and greens. I also dig crab legs a lot! Favorite Wine: Lambrusco Red Wine. Walter has recently decided to back away from the hard stuff. favorite snack(s): Mike and Ike Fruit candies. Canned boiled peanuts. Can't buy them in Oklahoma though. Damn! * Thanks to my wonderful friends out there who have dropped a few cans in the mail. I have the best fans/friends in the world! favorite color: I have recently gotten into earth tones, but I have always loved my black. hobbies: Honestly, I haven't had time for anything other than music. I do like golf though. favorite blues song: Hands down, it would have to be Buddy Ace's version of "It don't hurt no more" favorite gospel song: I have two; "Fix it Jesus, by the Canton Spirituals, and Morning Dove by the same group. favorite Male gospel singer: Harvey Watkins Jr. / Senior. The Pilgrim Jubilees /Lee Williams and the Q C's favorite Female gospel singer: Mossie "Mamma "Burks (Mississippi Mass Choir) / The Barrett Sisters /Olivia Richardson favorite Male blues singers: Buddy Ace/Little Milton . favorite Female Blues Singers: Big Mamma Thornton. Favorite Country Singer(s): George Jones, Hank Williams Jr, and Merle Haggard Favorite Rock Group: Metalica, ( Walter also digs Chicago, Journey, and Bon Jovi) Shh. Favorite Places to Play: Juke Joints. Venues I can get up close and personal. What would you be doing if you hadn't chosen this field: I would probably be heavy in to comedic acting or Producing Favorite body part: The part that I like most on any woman would probably be her abs and of course the behind. Ok, I must admit...I do love women who takes care of her feet. Biggest Turn off: I just don't like smokers. I have never found that to be attractive. I can be in a club and blown away by a woman's beauty and as soon as I see her hit a cigarette, it's over. Biggest Turn on (s): Without a doubt, I would have to see eye contact. I also like to see a woman's natural beauty. wearing make up is a woman's prerogative.... I am turned on by natural beauty. Favorite actress: Gabrielle Union, Sanaa Lathan Favorite actor: Denzel Washington, Al Pacino, Favorite Drama: The Wire, The Sapranos, Favorite all time movie: The Wiz Favorite all time Television Show: Sanford and Son Favorite Holiday: Anything that will allow me to sit on my butt and eat. Favorite Sport: Football!!!. Not dumb enough to play it any more, but I enjoy the game. Basketball would be a close 2nd. GO SPURS!. I had a custom jersey #69, but someone thought that it would look better on them and stole it. So if you see someone walking around with a Waiters Jersey #69 in San Antonio and it's not Mel. You have my permission to ....Just kidding. ;) Place where you would likely live: I guess when I find the right person to settle down with, I could probably live anywhere, but for now the Great State of Oklahoma is home. I'm done with big city living though, so no matter where I go, trust me...It will be small and laid back. Does Walter sleep in the nude?: You would be surprised how often I get asked this one....Guess I'll answer it. When I am at home, I don't wear any clothes PERIOD. Yal so nosey! lol.
One thing people would be shocked to know about you: Probably that I am not as social as I appear. I mean, I love the people that come out and support me and my music, and I have few buds in the business, but the politics and bullshit in this business is sickening. most embarrassing moment: I think the one that stands out the most is when I was in my teens and Maurice and I were playing a talent show in San Antonio. We got second place and I was furious. They called us up to get our award, and instead of walking up the stairs like the dancers and Maurice, I decided to jump on the stage from the side and lets say I underestimated the height of the stage. Damn! most proud moment: In my personal life, I would have to say the birth of my daughter. In my business, I would have to say winning The Best New Blues Artist Male in the Soul and Blues awards of 2006. I dig that award because the people actually vote for me. what other than success in the music industry would you like to attain: I would eventually like to get into acting and producing. I am just sitting back and letting God guide me. Who knows where I might end up.
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This site was last updated 09/01/08 Home Bio Photo Gallery Gossip Schedule Store News