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The Legend of Bob Kames

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Milwaukee Legend Bob Kames passed away April 9th, 2008. He was 82 years old. But the MIlwaukee Legend is still giving back. Bob Kames is the man behind one of Wisconsin's most endearing traditions. He created the popular chicken dance. His son Bob Kames Junior says, "He's s the chicken dance king. That's his biggest claim to fame. My dad is known for his stage performance. My dad is the ultimate person to play on stage." But Kames says his dad was far more than the chicken dance. "He was my business partner my stage partner. He was always giving and helping. That was my dad." Bob Kames produced his own TV shows and recorded more than 70 albums. He worked with everyone from Lawrence Welk, to Tiny Tim to Liberace. He even stood in for Liberace when the glitzy pianist was stuck in a snowstorm. Kames Junior laughs when remembering the irony. "So my dad whose the number one Hammond organ dealer and number one recording artist at the time, and he fills in for Liberace at the Baldwin exhibit..(laughs)." Bob Kames Junior also has musical talent, playing the drums and organ. He feels blessed to have grown up in a harmony filled home, and to have a father with fans all over the world. He points out, "It's given me the opportunity to meet so many professionals, so many celebrities, to play onstage with Frankie Yankovic, play on stage with Doc Severinson, those type of things I'll never forget." And the Milwaukee star lives on through the Bob Kames Foundation which offers grants and scholarships to school musicians. Last year the organization gave 8 thousand dollars to local programs. A portion of the sales of Bob Kames instruments in his store are donated to the foundation. Bob Kames says the best lesson his father gave him." Never give up. If you have a dream, if you have a passion, live it."

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