By Janette Turner

Earshot Hall of Fame inductee Overton Berry is set to perform at the Driftwood Players benefit scheduled for Oct. 6. My Edmonds News brings you a private interview with the music man:

My Edmonds News: Could you please tell readers a little about your induction into Earshot Hall of Fame?

O.B.: It was a total surprise to me to be inducted into the Earshot Hall of Fame. I was invited to attend the ceremonies as I was nominated for another spot – solo jazz artist related to a recording. When Jim Wilke introduced me to present the Hall of Fame award, I was totally surprised. It gave me a chance to thank all of the musicians and musical artists that are really part of any musical award to me.

My Edmonds News: You mentioned working with Peggy Lee. What was it like to perform with her?

O.B.: I was the production manager for Peggy Lee’s three concerts during the1962 Seattle’s World Fair. My responsibilities entailed hiring the horn section — she had brought her own conductor and rhythm section — scheduling the band rehearsals, and monitoring the sound in the Opera House during her performances, and instructing the sound engineer of any corrections to be made during the performance. It was probably one of the most enlightening musical experiences of my career. She was a consummate performer and knew every detail of her requirements for a perfect performance. She was kind, but exacting with her instructions to me. It was a very instructional experience at the hands of a great performer.

My Edmonds News: What are a few of the songs guests at the Edmonds benefit should listen for?

O.B.: We will be featuring several things during the concert: An original composition of mine, “eleven is forever” – a wedding anniversary composition. It is also the title of our newest recording effort. (We’ll also feature) a medley of compositions by Brazilian composers Luis Bonfa and Antonio Carlos Jobim, from the motion picture, “Black Orpheus” that features an incredible drum solo by Rick Spano, our drummer. Plus a feature number with our bassist, Mike Eytcheson, singing and playing ukulele. We’ll also showcase, for the second time, an incredibly gifted vocalist, Kate Wirth.

My Edmonds News would like readers to know that they can listen to Berry’s recent interview on KUOW here. Tickets for the Driftwood Players benefit are available here.