THE NEWPORTS' NEW CHAPTER: THE NEWPORT BLUES PROJECT
The Newport Blues Project was launched in summer of 2022 as a spinoff of The Newports, the 9-piece blues/rock/soul band Bill Bielby co-founded in eighth grade and reconvened in Harbor Country Michigan in 2014. The Newports Blues Project, started by Bill and his Newports bandmates Jumpin' Gene Halton and Jeff Sachs, is an electric roots-blues ensemble performing seasonally in Tucson (where winter is the high season) and in Harbor Country (where summer is the high season).
UP AND RUNNING IN TUCSON!
The High Desert branch of the Newport Blues Project came together in the winter of 2024. Jeff and Bill have taken on three new bandmates, all veterans of the Tucson blues scene: Tom Albanese, a terrific blues harmonica player and vocalist; Jim Nashu, a guitarist/vocalist whose blood runs true blue; and multi-instrumentalist Eric Charles who is contributing his percussion and vocal talents to our band.
Music by blues artists who have inspired us can be found at this Spotify play list. Captured live in the summer of 2022 are recordings of us performing blues classics “Bring it on Home,” “Rock Me Baby,” and “Catfish Blues.” Music from our previous nine-piece blues/rock/soul band, The Newports, including a number blues classics, can also be found at the music and videos tabs here, with much more at The Newport Blues Project YouTube channel.
THE NEWPORTS LAST DANCE
The Newports' show at The Acorn on June 24, 2022 was indeed our Last Dance as a full-blown, horn-based, blues rock soul ensemble. It's was a decision we made in joy, not sadness, and with the upmost respect and love for one another and for everyone who came along on our musical journey. Many followed us since our debut at Roosevelt Junior High, and others since we reconvened the band on The Acorn stage in 2014. While "The Last Dance" was our last live performance as a group, we continue to distribute music by The Newports through our Cherry Ridge Records label, including previously unreleased live recordings from our performances over the years at The Acorn in Three Oaks Michigan.
The nine members of The Newports continue to make music. Mark, Terry, and Gene Nourie perform regularly with Scamp, and Mark has returned to The Nick Danger Band and other ensembles in the region too numerous to mention. Terry has the Calumet Band, Saxophones, and other musical projects. Jumpin' Gene, Jeff, and Bill continue with The Newport Blues Project, Jeff with the Arizona version of the band, Gene with the Michigan version, and Bill with both versions. Ralph continues with his awesome horn-based KGB Band, while Eddie and Darryl are emersed in the south suburban jazz scene. Music is our lives, and our lives are music. This always has been, and it always will be. The nine of us who comprised The Newports are fortunate to be able to continue to share music with you, in many ways.
THE NEWPORTS' STORY: FROM THE PRE-BEATLES ERA TO THE 21ST CENTURY
The Newports' roots are in Chicago's industrial south suburbs, and their playlist of soul, rock and blues has that distinctive Chicago vibe. The band's sound features a tight, soulful four-piece horn section under the direction of Sonny Lee Tritt, the harmonica magic of Jumpin' Gene Halton, R&B keyboard and vocal stylings of Eddie Beard, and the high-energy guitar and vocals of wild man Mark Rongers. The band performed in the greater Chicago area, northwest Indiana, and southwest Michigan since reconvening in the summer of 2014, through the summer of 2022. From community festivals to roadhouse bars to corporate gigs to their high-energy stage show, they delivered a memorable performance of blues, rock, and soul music.
The Newports' debut album, The Newports Live! At the Acorn, was released in July 2019 on Cherry Ridge Records. Recorded at The Acorn Theater in Three Oaks Michigan last November, the ten tracks on the album range from reggae (Bob Marley’s “Is This Love”) to soul (“Low Rider,” “Knock on Wood”), to Hendrix (“All Along the Watchtower”) to blues (Gary Clark Jr.'s "When My Train Pulls In"). The album is available at all major online music services, as is our follow-up album, Let's Dance Again, and all of our singles.
The musicians who performed in the 21st centrury version of The Newports are: Mark Rongers (vocal, lead guitar), Terry "Sonny Lee" Tritt (tenor sax and musical director), Ralph Whipple (trumpet), Darryl Neil X (baritone sax), Jeff Sachs (trombone, guitar), Ed Beard (keyboards, vocals), Gene Nourie (drums), Jumpin' Gene Halton (harmonica), and Bill Bielby (bass and business manager). The horn guys -- Terry, Darryl, Ralph, and Jeff -- along with Eddie on keyboards got their musical start with the Thorntoneers jazz ensemble at Thornton Township High School in Harvey Illinois. Terry and Bill are from our original lineup. Bryan Salvage, our original vocalist/guitarist, joined tem from time to time.
Listen to Bill talk about The Newports' early days and musical journey when interviewed by Jonny LaSalle on his WRHC Radio Harbor Country show Jonny's Secret Stash.
Listen to The Newports on Spotify
Listen to The Newports on Pandora
Listen to The Newports on Apple Music
Listen to The Newports on iHeart Radio
Listen to The Newports and The Newport Blues Project on YouTube
ALBUM RELEASE PARTY, THE NEWPORTS LIVE! At the Acorn
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ALBUM RELEASE PARTY
THE NEWPORTS LIVE! At the Acorn Theater
Saturday July 6, 2019
Contact: William Bielby Phone: 312.497.9184
Email: NewportsBlues@gmail.com
Website: NewportsBluesRockSoul.com
[Three Oaks, Michigan, June 14, 2019—] The Newports return to the Acorn Theater in Three Oaks Michigan on Saturday July 6 to celebrate the release of their debut album, The Newports Live! At the Acorn. Recorded at the theater last November, the eleven tracks on the album range from reggae (Bob Marley’s “Is This Love”) to soul (“Low Rider,” “Knock on Wood”), to Hendrix (“Little Wing” and “All Along the Watchtower”) to blues, both classic (“Got My Mojo Working”) and contemporary (Gary Clark Jr.’s “When My Train Pulls In”).
The Newports’ roots go back to their teen years at Thornton Township High School in Harvey Illinois. Five years ago, on a hot July night, they reconvened for what they thought would be a one-shot open mic performance at the Acorn Theater in Three Oaks. Hoping for one of those Blues Brothers’ “getting the band back together” dreams come true, the night turned into so much more. With no time for rehearsal, the playlist consisted of classic rock tunes and blues standards that each of the guys had performed with numerous bands over the years. Everything clicked, and a few days later the headline in the Arts & Entertainment section of the New Buffalo Times read “Acorn the Scene of Jaw-Dropping Music by The Newports!” One thing led to another, and they’ve been performing regularly as a nine-piece blues/rock/soul ensemble ever since. It is fitting that the album release party is hosted by the venue that gave the twenty-first century version of the Newports their big break.
The Newports' playlist is much more eclectic now than it was at that open mic event in the summer of 2015: a mix of blues, rock, funk, and soul with a distinctive southside Chicago vibe. Since reuniting, The Newports have been performing regularly in the greater Chicago area, northwest Indiana, and southwest Michigan. From community festivals to roadhouse bars to corporate gigs to their high-energy stage show, they deliver a soulful performance unlike anything you've ever seen.
The Newports are: Mark Rongers (vocals, lead guitar), Terry "Sony Lee" Tritt (tenor sax and musical director), Ralph Whipple (trumpet), Darryl Neil X (baritone sax, vocals), Jeff Sachs (trombone, guitar), Ed Beard (keyboards, vocals), Gene Nourie (drums), Jumpin' Gene Halton (harmonica, percussion), and Bill Bielby (bass and business manager).
Joining The Newports on stage on July 6 is Funky Mojo Daddy. FMD performs regularly at House of Blues, Buddy Guy’s Legends, and other major blues venues in Chicagoland. These veterans of the Chicago blues scene bring a tasty mix of funk, roots rock, and soul to their show.
Showtime: Saturday, July 6, 8PM EDT
Tickets: www.acornlive.org
Acorn Theater, 107 Generation Drive, Three Oaks, MI 49128
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If you would like more information about this topic, please call Bill Bielby at 312-497-9184 or email NewportsBlues@gmail. Videos, music, and photographs can be found at the band's website, NewportsBluesRockSoul.com. Band members are available for media interviews and would be happy to arrange for a live performance as part of electronic media interviews.
- May, 10 Smokey Jo's, Crete, IL
- May, 25 Elements Wine Bar, Valparaiso, IN
- Jun, 08 Makers Trail Festival at Weko Beach
- Jun, 15 Grape and Grain, Homewood, IL
- Jul, 05 Idlewild Country Club 4th of July Celebration (on the 5th), Flossmoor, IL
- Jul, 06 Acorn Theater, Three Oaks, MI
- Aug, 04 Founders Square Fest, Portage IN
- Aug, 10 New Buffalo Ship & Shore Festival
- Aug, 16 Smoky Jo's, Crete, IL
- Aug, 24 Bottoms Up Bar & Grill, Lansing, IL
- Aug, 31 Grape and Grain, Homewood, IL
- Sep, 06 Elements Wine Bar, Valparaiso, IN
- Sep, 07 Midlothian Country Club
- Sep, 13 Duffy's Place, Valparaiso, IN
- Sep, 21 Three Oaks Wurstfest, Three Oaks, MI
- Sep, 21 Three Oaks Wurstfest
- Oct, 18 Blissful Barn, Three Oaks, MI
- Nov, 30 Acorn Theater, Three Oaks, MI
- Aug, 21 Elements Wine Bar, Valparaiso, IN
- Aug, 28 Music in the Pines, Union Pier, MI
- Sep, 04 Music in the Park, Three Oaks, MI
- Sep, 10 Greg's Place, Schererville
- Sep, 12 Blue Top Drive In, Highland, Indiana
- Sep, 17 American Legion Post 398, Hazel Crest, IL
- Sep, 19 Sollitt Tap, Beecher, IL
- Nov, 27 Acorn Theater, Three Oaks, MI
- Jun, 24 The Newports Last Dance at The Acorn, Three Oaks, MI
- Sep, 03 "The Newport Blues Project" at Music in the Park, Three Oaks, MI
- Sep, 02 Music in the Park, Three Oaks, MI
- Sep, 24 River Saint Joe, Buchanan MI
- Feb, 28 Rockabilly Grill, Tucson AZ
- Mar, 08 House Party, Tucson AZ
- Jul, 08 River Saint Joe, Buchanan MI
- Aug, 15 Common Concert Series, Buchanan, MI
- Aug, 31 Music in the Park, Three Oaks, MI
Smokey Jo's, Crete, IL
30 miles due east of the Joliet correctional facility, where Jake and Elwood hatched their plan to get the band back together, The Newports bring blues, rock, and soul to Smokey Jo's, in Crete IL. We're kicking off our 2019 tour at Smoky Jo's on Friday, May 10. Music starts at 8:30 PM. See you there!
https://www.facebook.com/events/2249087018693158/
Elements Wine Bar, Valparaiso, IN
The Newports return to Elements Wine Bar in Valpo, outdoors under the stars.
Makers Trail Festival at Weko Beach
Tickets $10 in advance or $20 at the gate. This beach party will rock til sunset. We will pop corks, tap kegs and pour spirits crafted by Southwest Michigans Makers Trail winemakers, brewmasters and distillers. Enjoy delicious local food and a fun lineup of regional music makers, too. Parking is free. Shuttles are free from parking lots and participating hotels. Get your tickets now!
https://www.facebook.com/events/375843673145473/
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Grape and Grain, Homewood, IL
Back in the 'hood! The Newports at Grape and Grain in Homewood
Idlewild Country Club 4th of July Celebration (on the 5th), Flossmoor, IL
Fireworks and fun at Idlewild Country Club with The Newports. Limited tickets available for non-members. Contact Jeff Sacks at sweatx@comcast.net for details
Acorn Theater, Three Oaks, MI
The Newports Live at the Acorn! ALBUM RELEASE PARTY
The Newports, Harbor Country’s favorite blues/rock/soul ensemble, returns to the Acorn to celebrate the release of their debut album “Live at the Acorn!”
Joining the Newports are Funky Mojo Daddy. These veterans of the local blues scene, who perform regularly at House of Blues, Buddy Guy’s Legends and other major blues venues in Chicagoland, bring a tasty mix of funk, roots rock, and soul into their repertoire.
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Founders Square Fest, Portage IN
The Newports' first appearance in the festive Sunday Summer Music Series at Founders Square Park in Portage Indiana. 90's alternative rock band Overdue is on at 3:30 PM, followed by Vintage Postcard at 5:30 and The Newports at 7:30. Food trucks, wine/beer tent, and plenty of room for dancing. Admission is free. Founders Square Park is a collection site for donations to Portage Food Pantry and Gabriel’s Horn Shelter. Feel free to bring canned goods, nonperishable boxed food items, paper goods, toothpaste, toothbrushes, paper towels, shampoo, conditioner, hygiene items, etc., or cash donations.
New Buffalo Ship & Shore Festival
The Newports kick off the music at 1 PM Saturday August 10th at the 34th Annual New Buffalo Ship and Shore Festival at Lions Park down by the beach. .
A crowd-pleasing tradition for thirty-five years, the New Buffalo Ship & Shore Festival, August 9-11, is a three-day signature festival presented by the New Buffalo Business Association This family-friendly fest has landed in a perfect new location at Lions Park in New Buffalo, Michigan and will offer something for everyone…Not your ordinary street fair, Ship & Shore will feature curated bands from all over the Midwest, local cuisine, regional beer and wine, unique art vendors and breath-taking sights of Lake Michigan and much more!
Smoky Jo's, Crete, IL
30 miles due east of the Joliet correctional facility, where Jake and Elwood hatched their plan to get the band back together, The Newports bring blues, rock, and soul to Smokey Jo's, in Crete IL. Music starts at 8:30 PM. See you there!
Bottoms Up Bar & Grill, Lansing, IL
The Newports, the boys from Harvey Illinois, continue their 2019 Blues • Rock • Soul tour in the south suburbs, back where it started all those years ago. Under the stars, weather permitting. Wear your dancing shoes!
Grape and Grain, Homewood, IL
Back in the 'hood! The Newports at Grape and Grain in Homewood
Elements Wine Bar, Valparaiso, IN
Back at our favorite wine bar, Elements in Valpo, outside under the stars weather permitting
Midlothian Country Club
Midlothian, Illinois
Duffy's Place, Valparaiso, IN
The Newports' first appearance at Valpo's cool hotspot, Duffy's Place. Join us!
Three Oaks Wurstfest, Three Oaks, MI
It began as a celebration of Drier's Meat Market's 100th birthday in 2012, and the party has gotten bigger and better each year since. This is The Newports' first time performing at Wurstfest.
Three Oaks Wurstfest
The 7th Annual Three Oaks Wurstfest!
Enjoy 40+ craft brews to savor (wine/cider too), food, vendors, classic cars, live music, and family fun for all in downtown Three Oaks. Free to the public...
Schedule for Wurstfest, Saturday Sept 21st
• Classic Car Show starts at 10am
• Vendors and kid's activities open at 11am
• Beer/Wine tent and live music starts a Noon
Blissful Barn, Three Oaks, MI
Benefit for the Michiana Humane Society
Acorn Theater, Three Oaks, MI
The Newports, Harbor Country’s favorite blues/rock/soul ensemble, returns to the Acorn with both new original songs and their own unique take on blues, rock and soul favorites. The Newports' roots are in Chicago's south suburbs in the mid-1960s, and their eclectic mix of blues, rock, funk, and soul reflects the south side vibe of that era. The band's sound features a soulful four-piece horn section, the harmonica magic of Jumpin' Gene Halton, R&B keyboard and vocal stylings of Eddie Beard, and the high-energy guitar and vocals of Mark Rongers.
Keith Scott is one of Chicago's most vibrant musicians. For the past twenty years he's built his reputation as a sizzling blues guitarist, dynamic performer, noteworthy songwriter and bandleader. Keith has toured the U.S. and Europe as a solo artist, with his band, and with blues great Jimmy Dawkins. He performs regularly at the Hard Rock, House of Blues, and Smoke Daddy's in Chicago and always attracts an enthusiastic crowd to his blues performances at Harbor Country music festivals. This will be Keith's debut appearance on the Acorn stage and one not to be missed!
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Elements Wine Bar, Valparaiso, IN
The Newports 60-Year Anniversary Tour starts Saturday August 21st, under the stars at Elements Wine Bar in Valpo. From Three Oaks Mi to Beecher Illinois, with a stop in Nashville along the way, it’s going to be our coolest season since summer 1961. Back then our dads drove us to our gigs. But now we’re old enough to play in venues where spirits are served. Get in the spirit and come on out. NewportsBluesRockSoul.com
Music in the Pines, Union Pier, MI
A benefit for the Michiana Humane Society
Music in the Park, Three Oaks, MI
Greg's Place, Schererville
"Bike Night" at Greg's, outdoors, 7 to 10 PM
Blue Top Drive In, Highland, Indiana
The Blue Top on Indianapolis Boulevard in Highland is one of the last standing 1950s-style drive ins the region, and on summer Sunday afternoons it is one of the hottest music venues as well. The Newports are thrilled to be playing at this local institution on Sunday, September 12th. A family-friendly event!
American Legion Post 398, Hazel Crest, IL
The last time we played this venue was summer of 1962 and we were 14 years old!
Sollitt Tap, Beecher, IL
Outdoors and one of Chicagoland's most popular biker bar/restaurants...
Acorn Theater, Three Oaks, MI
Join the Newports in closing out the 60th Anniversary Tour and celebrating the debut of their new single "Goin' Out West" at this festive event, Saturday of Thanksgiving Weekend. "One More Time: The Newports Live at the Acorn" is the band's last performance at the Acorn with legendary frontman Mark Rongers, who recently announced his retirement. The Newports are going to make sure this is one of his (and the band's) most memorable performances ever!
60th Anniversary? Yes, the band got its start in 1961 at Thornton Township High School in Chicago's south suburbs. The boys from Harvey Illinois performed throughout their high school years. Following a hiatus of more than 40 years, they reconvened in July 2014 for what was to have been a one-night stand hosting Open Mic at the Acorn. That was Mark's first performance with them, and the audience response was so overwhelming that they realized it was time to take the band back on the road. The 21st-Century edition of The Newports is proud to come back to the Acorn with Mark this one last time.
Opening the evening is the duo composed of veterans of the region's music scene, Greg Ashby & Chris Grove. Each has performed and recorded with some of the area's most popular bands (Marrakesh Express, Scamp, Steepwater, Nomad Planets, among others). Together, they have been amazing audiences with their intimate performances of the music of singer/songwriters ranging from Elton John to Bruce Springsteen.
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The Newports Last Dance at The Acorn, Three Oaks, MI
THE NEWPORTS LAST DANCE
The Newports' upcoming show at The Acorn on June 24th is indeed our Last Dance. It's a decision we make in joy, not sadness, and with the upmost respect and love for one another and for all of you who have been with us on our musical journey. Some of you have followed us since our debut at Roosevelt Junior High, and others since we reconvened the band on The Acorn stage eight years ago. While "The Last Dance" will be our last live performance as a group, we will continue to distribute our music through our Cherry Ridge Records label. Three singles drop in the next five week, followed by the "Let's Dance Again" album on June 17th. More singles and another album will be released in the fall and our fourth album comes out in 2023.
The nine of us continue to make music. Mark, Terry, and Gene Nourie perform regularly with Scamp, and Mark has returned to The Nick Danger Band and other ensembles in the region too numerous to mention. Terry has the Calumet Band, Saxophones, and other musical projects. Jumpin' Gene, Jeff, and Bill will be introducing The Newport Blues Project at Three Oaks Music in the Park on Labor Day Weekend. Ralph continues with his awesome horn-based KGB Band, while Eddie and Darryl are emersed in the south suburban jazz scene. Music is our lives, and our lives are music. This always has been, and it always will be. We are fortunate to have been able to share with you, and we will continue to do so, in many ways. Our love to all of you. The Newports.
Come see us at The Acorn on Friday June 24th. I guarantee you won't regret it, and you won't forget it!!!! Let's dance again...
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"The Newport Blues Project" at Music in the Park, Three Oaks, MI
The debut performance of The Newport Blues Project. Bill, Jeff, and Jumpin' Gene join veteran blues vocalist/guitarist Keith Scott for an evening of roots blues. The final show of the season for the Three Oaks "Music in the Park" summer series. In Dewey Canon Park, Three Oaks, MI. Free!
Music in the Park, Three Oaks, MI
The Newport Blues Project featuring Keith Scott at Three Oaks Music in the Park, Dewey Canon Park, Three Oaks, Michigan, Saturday of Labor Day Weekend. Free!
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River Saint Joe, Buchanan MI
The Newport Blues Project featuring Keith Scott is performing at the 2nd Annual Hop Harvest Festival at River Saint Joe farmstead brewery. The band will be performing from noon until 2PM. Music continues until 4PM. Tickets can be purchased here.
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Rockabilly Grill, Tucson AZ
The Tucson debut of The Newport Blues Project, Showcase Artist at Rockabilly Grill.
House Party, Tucson AZ
Private event (house party), Tucson, AZ
River Saint Joe, Buchanan MI
The Newport Blues Project performs at River Saint Joe's Music Monday series.
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Common Concert Series, Buchanan, MI
Free concert at Buchanan Michigan's awesome outdoor ampitheater on The Commons. Sponsored by the Michigan Community Gateway Foundation and the City of Buchanan.
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Music in the Park, Three Oaks, MI
Music In the Park is a free concert series held at 6:30 pm every Saturday during the summer in Dewey Cannon Park, downtown Three Oaks and is sponsored by Harbor Arts (HarborArts.com). The series has been in existence for 25 years, and this year is the sixth time our band has closed out the season on Labor Day Weekend.
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Nobody But You (Walter Spriggs and Little Walter)0 playsThe Newport Blues Projecthttps://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/147827/NobodyButYouVidShootHomeMovieAudioCleaned.mp3https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/147827/NobodyButYouVidShootHomeMovieAudioCleaned.mp3Nobody But You (Walter Spriggs and Little Walter)
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Hardwood Floor (Gary Primich and Mark Korpi)0 playsThe Newport Blues Projecthttps://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/147829/ZOOM0012_MICHardwoodFloor.mp3https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/147829/ZOOM0012_MICHardwoodFloor.mp3Hardwood Floor (Gary Primich and Mark Korpi)
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"Never Lose That Woman" (Jim Nashu)0 playsThe Newport Blues...https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/147828/ZOOM0019LoseThatWomanDeNoiasedCompressedH1n.mp3https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/147828/ZOOM0019LoseThatWomanDeNoiasedCompressedH1n.mp3"Never Lose That Woman" (Jim Nashu)
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Telephone Blues (John Mayall)0 playsThe Newport Blues Projecthttps://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/147830/BabyPleaseRidgetop.mp3https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/147830/BabyPleaseRidgetop.mp3Telephone Blues (John Mayall)
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Icepick's Confession (James Harman)2 playsThe Newport Blues Projecthttps://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/147709/IcepicksConfessionRockabilly2-28-24.mp3https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/147709/IcepicksConfessionRockabilly2-28-24.mp3Icepick's Confession (James Harman)
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Never Lose That Woman - raw rehearsal tape (J.D. Nasu)3 playsThe Newport Blues Projecthttps://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/147651/NeverLoseThatWomanRehearsal2-15-24.mp3https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/147651/NeverLoseThatWomanRehearsal2-15-24.mp3Never Lose That Woman - raw rehearsal tape (J.D. Nasu)
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Baby Please - raw rehearsal tape (Percy Mayfield)1 playsThe Newport Blues...https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/147695/BabyPleaseAtBillOutdoorRehearsalNoDrums.mp3https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/147695/BabyPleaseAtBillOutdoorRehearsalNoDrums.mp3Baby Please - raw rehearsal tape (Percy Mayfield)
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Bring It On Home (Willie Dixon)5 playsNewport Blues Pro...https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/146501/uirec-20220903_183611MusicInParkPt2_4_1BringItOnHomeLevelAmplicied.mp3https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/146501/uirec-20220903_183611MusicInParkPt2_4_1BringItOnHomeLevelAmplicied.mp3Bring It On Home (Willie Dixon)
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Cold Shot (Mike Kindred, W.C. Clark)94 playsThe Newportshttps://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/137229/1555643395.mp3https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/137229/1555643395.mp3Cold Shot (Mike Kindred, W.C. Clark)
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Rock Me Baby (Joe Josea, B.B. King)2 playsNewport Blues Pro...https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/146503/uirec-20220903_183611MusicInParkPt2_6_1RockMeBabyAmplifiedLevel.mp3https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/146503/uirec-20220903_183611MusicInParkPt2_6_1RockMeBabyAmplifiedLevel.mp3Rock Me Baby (Joe Josea, B.B. King)
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Catfish Blues (Robert Petway)3 playsNewport Blues Project featuring Keith Scotthttps://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/146502/uirec-20220903_183611MusicInParkPt2_1_2CatfishBluesAmplifiedLevel.mp3https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/146502/uirec-20220903_183611MusicInParkPt2_1_2CatfishBluesAmplifiedLevel.mp3Catfish Blues (Robert Petway)
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Champagne and Reefer (Muddy Waters)96 playsThe Newports Buyhttps://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/137227/1555642369.mp3https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/137227/1555642369.mp3Champagne and Reefer (Muddy Waters)
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When My Train Pulls In (Gary Clark, Jr.)100 playsThe Newports Buyhttps://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/137211/1555552935.mp3https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/137211/1555552935.mp3When My Train Pulls In (Gary Clark, Jr.)
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Got My Mojo Workin' (Muddy Waters, Preston Foster)3 playsThe Newportshttps://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/144225/MojoWorkingDavePAudio.mp3https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/144225/MojoWorkingDavePAudio.mp3Got My Mojo Workin' (Muddy Waters, Preston Foster)
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Bright Lights (Gary Clark, Jr.)89 playsThe Newportshttps://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/137233/1555705282.mp3https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/137233/1555705282.mp3Bright Lights (Gary Clark, Jr.)
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Can't Find My Way Home (Steve Winwood)111 playsThe Newports Buyhttps://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/137207/1555552532.mp3https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/137207/1555552532.mp3Can't Find My Way Home (Steve Winwood)
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Is This Love (Bob Marley)144 playsThe Newports Buyhttps://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/137206/1555552430.mp3https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/137206/1555552430.mp3Is This Love (Bob Marley)
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Low Rider (Lee Oskar, Lonnie Jordan, Howard E. Scott, B.B. Dickerson, Harold Ray Brown, Charles Miller, Jerry Goldstein)111 playsThe Newports Buyhttps://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/137208/1555552706.mp3https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/137208/1555552706.mp3Low Rider (Lee Oskar, Lonnie Jordan, Howard E. Scott, B.B. Dickerson, Harold Ray Brown, Charles Miller, Jerry Goldstein)
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Little Wing (Jimi Hendrix)104 playsThe Newportshttps://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/137209/1555552786.mp3https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/137209/1555552786.mp3Little Wing (Jimi Hendrix)
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Roll With It (Steve Winwood, Will Jennings, Brian Holland, Lamont Dozier, Eddie Holland)107 playsThe Newports Buyhttps://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/137210/1555552876.mp3https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/137210/1555552876.mp3Roll With It (Steve Winwood, Will Jennings, Brian Holland, Lamont Dozier, Eddie Holland)
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Whipping Post (Gregg Allman)101 playsThe Newports Buyhttps://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/137212/1555552983.mp3https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/137212/1555552983.mp3Whipping Post (Gregg Allman)
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Knock on Wood (Eddie Floyd, Steve Cropper)98 playsThe Newports Buyhttps://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/137213/1555553027.mp3https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/137213/1555553027.mp3Knock on Wood (Eddie Floyd, Steve Cropper)
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All Along the Watchtower (Bob Dylan)98 playsThe Newports Buyhttps://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/137228/1555642519.mp3https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/137228/1555642519.mp3All Along the Watchtower (Bob Dylan)
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Let's Dance Again! album preview2 playsThe Newportshttps://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/145414/AlbumSamplerAudioLetsDanceAgain.mp3https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/145414/AlbumSamplerAudioLetsDanceAgain.mp3Let's Dance Again! album preview
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Spanish Moon (Lowell George)92 playsThe Newportshttps://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/137234/1555705674.mp3https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/137234/1555705674.mp3Spanish Moon (Lowell George)
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Let's Dance (David Bowie)104 playsThe Newportshttps://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/137275/1556083480.mp3https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/137275/1556083480.mp3Let's Dance (David Bowie)
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Goin' Out West (Tom Waits)2 playsThe Newportshttps://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/144226/Goin__Out_West_MusicInParkMp3.mp3https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/144226/Goin__Out_West_MusicInParkMp3.mp3Goin' Out West (Tom Waits)
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Let's Dance 2021 live (David Bowie)6 playsThe Newportshttps://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/144227/Let_s_Dance_Mix_8.mp3https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/144227/Let_s_Dance_Mix_8.mp3Let's Dance 2021 live (David Bowie)
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Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas/Goin' Out West (Hugh Martin/Tom Waits, Kathleen Brennan)0 playsThe Newports Buyhttps://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/144637/Newports_Final_Show_Christmas_Intro_and_Goin_Out_West_3.mp3https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ae-p/system/music/file/144637/Newports_Final_Show_Christmas_Intro_and_Goin_Out_West_3.mp3Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas/Goin' Out West (Hugh Martin/Tom Waits, Kathleen Brennan)
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"Hardwood Floor" - The Newport Blues ProjectGood good whiskey And warm red wine Used to understand me Used to be good friends of mine Now they just disappoint me When I need ‘em more and more Since I lost my mind On that hardwood floor The Tucson ensemble of The Newport Blues Project performs Gary Primich's "Hardwood Floor" Tucson, Arizona, March 29, 2024. NewportBluesProject.com -
"Telephone Blues" - The Newport Blues ProjectMore by The Newport Blues Project, live from the top of the Ridge. Our rendition of Telephone Blues I tried to call my baby another party was on the line. I was standin' there holding the receiver and you know I felt like cryin' -
"Never Lose That Woman" - The Newport Blues ProjectA Jim Nashu original, "Never Lose That Woman," audio recorded at our video shoot from the top of Sunrise Ridge in Tucson's Catalina Foothills, March 29, 2024. Jim Nashu (vocals, guitar), Jeff Sachs (guitar), Tom Albanese (harmonica), Eric Charles (drums), Bill Bielby (bass). -
"Nobody But You" - The Newport Blues Project home movieEXCLUSIVE! Rare home movie of The Newport Blues Project's video shoot on a windy afternoon at the top of Sunrise Ridge in Tucson's Catalina Foothills. Tom channels Little Walter on vocals and harmonica, and Jim does a tasty solo on guitar. This one is for "Nobody but You." -
"Icepick's Confession" - The Newport Blues ProjectFrom our Tucson debut at Rockabilly Bar & Grill, February 28, 2024. -
"Baby Please" - The Newport Blues Project"Baby Please" - covering James Cotton, from the Tucson rehearsal tapes. -
"Bring It on Home" - Newport Blues ProjectThe Newport Blues Project featuring Keith Scott, Live at Music in the Park, Three Oaks Michigan, September 3, 2022 -
Never Lose That Woman - from the rehearsal studioThe Newport Blues Project is up and running in Tucson! New to our playlist is this original by guitarist/vocalist James Nashu, a veteran of the local blues scene. This version of “Never Lose That “Woman” is a raw rehearsal recording and is just our second time playing it from beginning to end. At this week’s rehearsal we’ll be playing it for the first time with our drummer Eric Charles, another veteran of the local music scene. Tom, Jeff, and Bill are thrilled to have these guys on board. -
The Newports Play the Blues for You...A taste of the blues, from The Newports' performances over the past four years at the Acorn Theater in Three Oaks, MI. -
"Rock Me Baby" - Newport Blues ProjectThe Newport Blues Project featuring Keith Scott, Live at Music in the Park, Three Oaks Michigan, September 3, 2022 -
The Newports Through the YearsA look back through the years, from the First Dance in May 1961 to the Last Dance in June 2022 -
Champagne and ReeferThe Newports covering a Muddy Waters' classic, "Chamagne and Reefer," live at the Acorn Theater, July 2018. -
When My Train Pulls InMark's blazing guitar and the soulful lines from our amazing horn section are featured on The Newports' cover of Gary Clark Jr.'s "When My Train Pulls In. "From our November 2018 show at the Acorn Theater in Three Oaks, MI. On our CD The Newports: Live at the Acorn -
Peter Gunn106 miles to Chicago, we got a full tank of gas, half a pack of cigarettes, it's dark and we're wearing sunglasses... Hit it! From our show at the Acorn Theater in Three Oaks, Michigan, July 2018 -
Cold ShotWe take a "Cold Shot" at the Newports' Acorn Theater show in Three Oaks, Michigan, July 22, 2017. -
Whipping PostOur take on the Allman Brothers' "Whipping Post." From our November 2018 show at the Acorn Theater in Three Oaks, MI. On our CD The Newports: Live at the Acorn -
Low RiderLow Rider drives a little slower... From our November 2018 show at the Acorn Theater in Three Oaks, MI. On our CD The Newports: Live at the Acorn -
The Newports "Big Bad Wolf" featuring Jumpin' Gene Halton -
Bright Lights"You gonna know my name by the end of the night..." And his name is Mark Rongers, awesome guitarist/vocalist and front man of The Newports. Here he is, killing it on Gary Clark Jr.'s "Bright Lights" at The Newports show at the Acorn Theater in Three Oaks, Michigan, July 22, 2017. -
Got My Mojo Working"...but it just won't work on you." Featuring Jumpin' Gene Halton on blues harp. From our November 2018 show at the Acorn Theater in Three Oaks, MI. On our CD The Newports: Live at the Acorn -
Is This Love?The Newports get deeper in to their reggae groove, covering Bob Marley. From our November 2018 show at the Acorn Theater in Three Oaks, MI. On our CD The Newports: Live at the Acorn -
Meet the Newports!Blues, rock, soul and a little reggae from The Newports: a video montage of our live show to a packed house at the Acorn Theater in Three Oaks, Michigan, November 24, 2018. We return to the Acorn on Saturday July 6 to celebrate the release of our live album from this show. -
Can't Find My Way HomeA soulful rendition of the Blind Faith classic... From our November 2018 show at the Acorn Theater in Three Oaks, MI. On our CD The Newports: Live at the Acorn -
Let's Dance"Let's sway. Under the moonlight, this serious moonlight..." -
Knock on Wood"I don't want to lose this good thing..." Eddie Beard covering Eddie Floyd on the Stax soul classic. From our November 2018 show at the Acorn Theater in Three Oaks, MI. On our CD The Newports: Live at the Acorn -
Roll With ItEddie delivers a soulful rendition of Steve Windwood's "Roll With It." From our November 2018 show at the Acorn Theater in Three Oaks, MI. On our CD The Newports: Live at the Acorn -
You Don't Know Like I KnowEddie brings it home on Sam & Dave's "You Don't Know Like I Know." At our annual Holiday R & B Review at the Acorn Theater in Three Oaks, Michigan. -
How You Like Me Now?The Newports cover of The Heavy's "How You Like Me Now?" featuring Mark on guitar/vocals and our amazing horns. From our show at the Acorn Theater in Three Oaks, Michigan, July 2017. -
Take Me to the River"Take Me to the River" from our show at the Acorn Theater in Three Oaks, Michigan, July 2017. -
Little Wing"Well, she's walking through the clouds..." Hendrix with Horns. From our November show at the Acorn Theater. On our CD The Newports: Live at the Acorn -
Touch MeTill the stars fall from the sky... "Touch Me" - Doors with Horns From our November 2018 show at the Acorn Theater in Three Oaks, MI. -
Them Changes"Well my mind is goin' through them changes..." Eddie Beard brings it home in The Newports' cover of Buddy Miles' "Them Changes." From our November 2018 show at the Acorn Theater in Three Oaks, MI. On our CD The Newports: Live at the Acorn -
A Day in the LifeWe'd love to turn you on... From our November 2018 show at the Acorn Theater in Three Oaks, MI. On our CD The Newports: Live at the Acorn -
All Along the Watchtower"There must be some way out of here..." Mark's on fire! From our November 2018 show at the Acorn Theater in Three Oaks, MI. On our CD The Newports: Live at the Acorn -
Spanish MoonThe Newports, the boys from Harvey Illinois. Our take on Little Feat's "Spanish Moon." From our holiday show at the Acorn Theater in Three Oaks, Michigan, December 2017 -
Into the MysticVan Morrison's "Into the Mystic" featuring Mark Rongers' vocals and The Newports horns. -
Got My Mojo Workin' - Newports with Funky Mojo DaddyA raucous finale - The Newports & Funky Mojo Daddy, with special guest WVPE Blues Review host Ole Harv, Acorn Theater, Three Oaks, Michigan, July 6, 2019. The bands get their mojo workin' and they just can't stop, as you'll see in this video. The Newports, Harbor Country’s favorite blues/rock/soul ensemble, returned to the Acorn to celebrate the release of their debut album “Live at the Acorn!” The Newports' roots are in Chicago's south suburbs in the mid-1960s, and their eclectic mix of blues, rock, funk, and soul reflects the south side vibe of that era. The band's sound features a soulful four-piece horn section, the harmonica magic of Jumpin' Gene Halton, R&B keyboard and vocal stylings of Eddie Beard, and the high-energy guitar and vocals of wild man Mark Rongers. Joining the Newports that night were Funky Mojo Daddy. These veterans of the local blues scene, who perform regularly at House of Blues, Buddy Guy’s Legends and other major blues venues in Chicagoland, bring a tasty mix of funk, roots rock, and soul into their repertoire. The two bands joined forces for the evening's encore, Muddy Waters' "Got My Mojo Working." -
Goin' Out West. The Newports do WaitsThe Newports' first time delving into the Tom Waits songbook. Live at the Acorn Theater in Three Oaks, Michigan, November 30, 2019 -
The Newports - Cool in the '60s, High in Our 70sMay 25, 2021. 60 years ago this month Bryan Salvage, Bob Gedzun, and Bill Bielby made their musical debut at the Roosevelt School talent show in Dolton Illinois, just south of the Chicago city limits. We performed "Apache" and "Runaway" (as an instrumental). We were 13, we won, and we became instant rock stars. We weren’t just “almost famous,” we were genuinely famous, at least among among seventh and eight graders in the four-square-mile community bounded by the Indiana Harbor Belt railroad to the north, the Little Calumet River to the south, the C&EI yard to the east, and the Illinois Central tracks to the west. As a result, we were offered our first paying gig, to perform before for our classmates two weeks later, at the eighth grade year-end party. These photos are from that first gig. The high school version of The Newports performed until 1966, and we reconvened in 2014. COVID sidelined us for more than a year, but rehearsals are now underway for The Newports 60th Anniversary Tour, which commences mid-August. Visit NewportsBluesRockSoul.com for our tour dates. For us, the thrill of performing is the same now as it was all those years ago. 0 Comments -
Honky Tonk Women - The Newports and the Spirit of Charlie WattsThe spirit of Charlie Watts inhabited us all last week at Elements Wine Bar in Valparaiso Indiana, as you can tell by the spirited participation of the crowd during the choruses. Gimme, gimme, gimme the honky tonk blues... Photos by Bill Reder (from a photo shoot at Elements) -
Let's Dance - The NewportsRecorded live at Music in the Park in Three Oaks, Michigan, September 4, 2021. NewportsBluesRockSoul.com -
Goin' Out West - The Newports (Official)Our alt take on a Tom Waits classic... -
The Newports Goin' Out West for ChristmasHave Yourself a Merry Little Christmas/Goin' Out West, recorded live at The Acorn. Eddie Beard and Terry "Sonny Lee" Tritt serve up an intimate, jazzy rendition of the Christmas classic, and then BOOM, the Newports give an explosive performance of Tom Waits' "Goin' Out West." A Cherry Ridge Records Production. NewportsBluesRockSoul.com -
Wooly BullyWooly Bully by the Newports, from their album Let's Dance Again, dropping 6.17.22 -
The Newports - Goin' Out WestA unique take on Tom Waits' alt rock classic -
Let's Dance - The Newports -
Let's Dance Again - Album PreviewHere's a sneak peek at the new album, Let's Dance Again, with 10 tracks guaranteed to make you want to put on your red shoes and dance the blues away. A labor of love from The Newports. The album drops Friday June 17th and will be available to download/stream absolutely everywhere. And while Friday the 24th will be The Newports' Last Dance at The Acorn, there's plenty of music in the vaults for future releases, this year and next. And as I've noted elsewhere, my eight bandmates and I are involved in numerous musical projects that will be popping up all over the region. -
(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction - The NewportsFrom their 2022 album Let's Dance Again, the Newports deliver Satisfaction, with a lot of audience participation! The song was on their playlist back in 1965, and they've closed every show with Satisfaction since they reconvened in 2014. -
Telephone Blues - The Newport Blues ProjectMore by The Newport Blues Project, live from the top of the Ridge. Our rendition of Telephone Blues I tried to call my baby another party was on the line. I was standin' there holding the receiver and you know I felt like cryin'
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Telephone Blues - The Newport Blues ProjectMore by The Newport Blues Project, live from the top of the Ridge. Our rendition of Telephone Blues
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Telephone Blues - The Newport Blues ProjectMore by The Newport Blues Project, live from the top of the Ridge. Our rendition of Telephone Blues
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Telephone Blues - The Newport Blues Project
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Telephone Blues - The Newport Blues Projec
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Acorn 11/1714 photos -
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Elements Wine Bar 4/1823 photos -
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